Comparison between men and women of volume regulating hormones and aquaporin-2 excretion following graded central hypovolemia

Abstract

Central hypovolemia induced by orthostatic loading causes reno-vascular changes that can lead to orthostatic intolerance. In this study, we investigated volume regulating hormonal responses and reno-vascular changes in male and female subjects as they underwent central hypovolemia, induced by graded lower body negative pressure (LBNP). Aquaporin-2 (AQP2) excretion was measured as a biomarker for the renal system response to vasopressin. 37 young healthy subjects (n = 19 males; n = 18 females) were subjected to graded LBNP until − 40 mmHg LBNP. Under resting conditions, males had significantly higher copeptin (a stable peptide derived from vasopressin) levels compared with females. Adrenocorticotropin (ACTH), adrenomedullin (ADM), vasopressin (AVP) and brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) were not affected by our experimental protocol. Nevertheless, an analysis of ADM and BNP with the data normalized as percentages of the baseline value data showed an increase from baseline to 10 min after recovery in the males in ADM and in the females in BNP. Analysis of BNP and ADM raises the possibility of a preferential adaptive vascular response to central hypovolemia in males as shown by the normalized increase in ADM, whereas females showed a preferential renal response as shown by the normalized increase in BNP. Furthermore, our results suggest that there might be a difference between men and women in the copeptin response to alterations in orthostatic loading, simulated either using LBNP or during posture changes.

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Panafrican Medical Journal

PAMJ, 3 - 7 Dec 2018

RESEARCH Menstrual hygiene management practices among primary school girls from a pastoralist community in Kenya: a cross sectional survey Eleen Korir et al. Pubescent girls from developing countries are confronted with diverse menstrual hygiene management (MHM) challenges, especially at school. Girls from rural pastoralist communities experience insurmountable MHM barriers. Inadequate coping strategies adopted result in sub-optimal school performance, absenteeism and physical problems. Outcomes of tunneled internal jugular venous catheters for chronic haemodialysis at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria Yemi Raheem Raji et al.  Vascular access is an important aspect of haemodialysis treatments and determinant of patient outcomes. Arteriovenous (AV) fistula has been described as the preferred haemodialysis vascular access for patients on chronic dialysis. IMAGES IN CLINICAL MEDICINE Une cataracte inhabituelle: régressive à noyau pétaloïde Ahmed Bennis et al. Nous rapportons le cas d'une patiente de 38 ans, sans antécédents médico-chirurgicaux, victime d'un traumatisme contusif de l'œil droit par coup de pierre il y a 20 ans, avec baisse de l'acuité visuelle progressive depuis 10 ans. Formes évolutives postérieures de la persistance de la vascularisation fœtale bilatérale à l'hôpital régional de Gao Ibrahima Conaré et al.  La persistance de la vascularisation fœtale (PVF) est une anomalie de la résorption du système vasculaire hyaloïdien. Formes évolutives postérieures bilatérales de la persistance chez un garçon âgé de 2 ans qui a consulté pour une leucocorie de l'œil droit.  CASE REPORTS Perforation cæcale néonatale inaugurale du diagnostic d'un mégacôlon congénital Abdoulaye Diallo Harouna et al. Les perforations intestinales spontanées sont rares chez un nouveau-né à terme. Nous rapportons le cas d'un nouveau-né issu d'une grossesse de 41 semaines d'aménorrhée, qui avait présenté à trois jours de vie, un pneumopéritoine inaugural d'un mégacôlon congénital. Corps étranger intra urétral inhabituel chez un adolescent schizophrène: à propos d'un cas Mustapha Ahsaini et al.  L'auto insertion d'un corps étranger s'observe généralement chez les patients ayant une psychose chronique dans le but d'automutilation ou érotique. Le diagnostic est parfois difficile s'il est rapporté tardivement ou si le patient est non coopérant, d'où l'intérêt d'un bilan d'imagerie complémentaire.

Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine (Indian J Occup Environ Med) 2018 | September-December | Volume 22 | Issue 3

Occupational health surveillance Damodar Vishnu Lele Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):117-120, Occupational health surveillance Damodar Vishnu Lele Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):117-120 The untold story of fluoridation: Revisiting the changing perspectives Maitreyee P Unde, Raju Umaji Patil, Persis P Dastoor Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):121-127 The discovery of fluoride in dentistry has revolutionized treatment modalities with a new aspect of prevention and conservation of tooth structure coming into foreplay. Since then, there has been a lot of research on both topical and systemic fluoridation in an overzealous attempt to control the most debilitating dental problem of caries. Although topical fluoride is still being widely used as a preventive measure for dental caries, systemic administration of the same has gained major criticism worldwide due to the low margin of safety of fluoride and no control over the amount of individual intake when administered on a community level. This problem is more prevalent in countries with presence of natural fluoride belts that extend from Turkey to China and Japan through Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan increasing the chances of both dental and skeletal fluorosis and hence increasing the focus toward defluoridation. This historical review highlights the distribution of fluoride worldwide and in India and also discusses about the various claims of the antifluoride lobby.  Occupational and environmental exposure to lead and reproductive health impairment: An overview Sunil Kumar Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):128-137 Lead is a heavy metal. It is used in lead-acid battery, as a coloring agent, paints, and metal alloyed as shielding materials, smelters, printing press, and so on. It is a toxic metal affecting various organs, and developing fetus and young children are more vulnerable to toxicity of lead. This overview is based on the information of toxic potential of lead to human reproduction and reproductive outcome. Exposure to lead may affect libido, semen quality by declining sperm count, motility, viability, integrity, elevation in morphological abnormalities, and sperm DNA integrity. These alterations led to reducing fertility potential and chances of miscarriages, preterm birth, and so on in a partner. Lead exposure impairs hormonal synthesis and regulations in both sexes. Lead exposure also affects female reproduction by impairing menstruations, reducing fertility potential, delaying conception time, altering the hormonal production, circulation, affecting pregnancy and its outcome, and so on. At present, the safe dose of lead cannot be advocated as more and more data are generated in recent years which indicate the toxic potential of lead to human reproduction at a low level that was previously thought not to have such effect. Hence, use of lead should be stopped/avoided or restricted to safeguard human reproduction.  Upper extremity muscular strength in push–pull tasks: Model approach towards task design Joydeep Majumder, Sanjay M Kotadiya, Lokesh Kumar Sharma, Sunil Kumar Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):138-143 Background: Pushing and pulling in workplaces are common actions. Repetitive forceful exertions in long-duration works lead to increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. Aim: To investigate the upper extremity strength in generic push–pull modes while using hand tools and forecasting the limits of the workers while frequent or continuous operation. Settings and Design: The study was conducted among men workers in Ahmedabad city, India, and the design was cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: In all, 100 men were recruited (Group 1: 18–39 years and Group 2: 40–60 years). Upper extremity muscular strength (isometric mode) testing of the preferred hand during push–pull type of manual hand-tool operations was carried out for 60 s. Forecasting of strength to generate predictions for future events (120 s) based on known past events (measured 60 s) was carried out using Holt–Winters time-series model. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics was used for analysis. For prediction model evaluation, WEKA 3.8.2 was used. Results: Anthropometric parameters of both groups were similar, having no effect on generated strength. Largely, pull strength was recorded to be higher than push strength, wherein Group 2 men generated slightly higher strength. Seated strength was also higher than standing exertion. Forecasting reveals steady strength values for Group 1 men, whereas steep decline among Group 2 men with increasing duration of trial. Conclusion: The strength data generated would aid in work schedule design. Strength forecasting model would assist in developing engineering guidelines in the design of tools at workplace.  Effects of occupational heat exposure on traffic police workers in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Amee Raval, Priya Dutta, Abhiyant Tiwari, PS Ganguly, LM Sathish, Dileep Mavalankar, Jeremy Hess Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):144-151 One of the most concerning environmental effects of climate change is rising levels of extreme heat, which already poses serious risks in many parts of the world. In June and July 2015, we collected weekly heat exposure data using area and personal temperature monitoring in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The study was conducted at four different traffic junctions with a cohort of 16 traffic police. For information on health effects, we administered a baseline survey at the start of the study and prospectively followed up with the officers on prevalence of heat-related symptoms. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) levels ranged from 28.2°C to 36.1°C during the study period. Traffic police workers who participated in this study were exposed to WBGT levels higher than the recommended threshold limit value as per American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists guidelines even beyond the hottest months of the season. Our findings suggest that airport measurements by the Indian Meteorological Department may not accurately capture heat exposures among individuals who work in and alongside high-density traffic junctions. Based on our temperature estimates, traffic police are at risk for heat stress. India is likely to experience warmer temperatures and increased heat waves in the coming decades, fueled by climate change. Therefore, it is important to reduce current and future heat-related risks for traffic police workers and similar occupational risk groups by establishing protection strategies. The protocol established in this study for occupational heat exposure assessment could be applied to a larger cohort.  The exposure to pollutants of the auto repair workers: Monitoring their oxidative stress Roberto Menicagli, O Marotta, L Menicagli Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):152-155 Background and Aim: Auto repair workers are exposed to multiple pollutants, each of them potentially risks, dangerous for several target organs. The aim of this study is to identify their possible overall effect, by monitoring the concentration of salivary malondialdehyde, index of oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Malondialdehyde of 25 male workers, smokers and non-smokers, further divided into two subgroups relatively to the amplitude of their working place, was monitored, in the saliva, with the Thiobarbituric acid method. The control group consists of 12 and 13 male smokers, and 13 non-smokers. Univariate (UVA) and Multivariate (MVA) analysis methods were used to analyze the results. Results: No variable is significant (P ≥ 0.05) for the control group using UVA, while age and smoking significantly increase the levels of MDA (P ≤ 0.05) using MVA. For workers group, the age and the place of work increase the MDA (P ≤ 0.05) using UVA analysis, while only the place of work remains significant (≤0.05) using MVA analysis. MVA analysis reveals that, besides the type of work, also the age and smoking significantly increase the level of MDA, as a result of a higher exposure to pollutants. Conclusions: You can check the cumulative effect of pollutants on auto repair workers, by monitoring the salivary malondialdehyde.  Impact of school air quality on children's respiratory health Peter Fsadni, Frank Bezzina, Claudia Fsadni, Stephen Montefort Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):156-162 Background: Asthma is common in children with indoor pollutants influencing the development of the disease. Since children spend most of their time outside their homes within the school environment, school indoor air quality can directly influence their respiratory health. Aims: This study aims to analyze the indoor and outdoor air quality of Maltese schools and if an association exists between indoor pollutants and respiratory health in children. Settings and Design: Five primary schools were selected with 9- to 11-year-old students participating. Materials and Methods: Standardized health questionnaires and lung function tests were utilized. Indoor and outdoor air sampling together with traffic counts were carried out. Statistical Analysis Used: SPSS version 21 was used and the Chi-squared, logistic regression, and Pearson's correlation were used. Results: The mean indoor PM 2.5 level of 17.78 μg/m3 and CO (9.11 ppm) exceeded World Health Organization thresholds. Indoor ozone levels exceeded the mean European school's indoor ozone concentration of 8 μg/m3. High exposure to formaldehyde, NO2, and ozone was associated with atopy in children. Heavy vehicles passing near the schools were associated with current wheezing (P < 0.001) but not nocturnal cough (P = 0.34). Conclusions: School indoor and outdoor environment has a direct impact on children's respiratory health. This study has identified significant associations between high exposures to indoor air pollutants, school characteristics, and upper and lower airway inflammation.  Work related musculoskeletal disorders and postural stress of the women cultivators engaged in uprooting job of rice cultivation Amitava Pal, Prakash C Dhara Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):163-169 Aims: A large number of workers including women are involved in the informal sector in India. A majority of them are engaged in agricultural sectors. The agricultural workers have to perform their jobs by putting manual labor and are exposed to different occupational stresses. The present study was aimed to evaluate postural stress and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) of women cultivators engaged in uprooting job of rice cultivation. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 166 women cultivators from different districts of West Bengal state, India. Materials and Methods: Prevalence and intensity of MSDs of the cultivators were evaluated by Nordic questionnaire and 10-point body part discomfort scale. Work rest pattern and postural pattern were studied by direct observation method. Postural stress was assessed by OVAKO Working Postures Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC) methods and as well as by measuring center of gravity. Results and Conclusions: MSD was highly prevalent among the study participants. Lower back, hip, wrist, shoulder, and knee were highly affected. Higher prevalence of MSDs among the cultivators may be because of prolonged working hours and awkward postures. The women cultivators had to start their day before dawn to finish off their household chores such as cooking, cleaning, washing clothes and dishes, etc., before they moved off to the fields, which altogether impose them under additional stress. It may be suggested that ergonomic interventions such as modifying work-rest schedules, improving work postures, and introducing new design hand tools should be considered for improving work condition of the women cultivators.  A comparative study of byssinosis in jute industries Asim Saha, Anirban Das, Bhaskar Prasad Chattopadhyay, Jane Alam, Tilak Kanti Dasgupta Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):170-176 Background: Byssinosis is an acute respiratory difficulty that is caused usually following exposure to cotton and hemp dust. Occurrence of such similar acute symptoms had been reported following exposure to jute dust/fiber also. With passage of time, Jute industries have modernized themselves for increased quality and productivity, which has lessened workforce and thereby provided more working space. However, occupational health benefit due to such changes has rarely been explored. This study was initiated to understand whether this modernization can protect the health of workers. Methodology: This study was carried out in two jute mills manufacturing jute clothes, jute bags, and so on. Interview of the workers for their occupational and morbidity details, medical examinations, as well as pre-shift and post-shift pulmonary function tests was carried out. Results: It was observed that chest tightness was significantly more in the industry with old technologies. Breathlessness was also more in this industry. As far as pulmonary function status is concerned, it was noted that greater than 5% cross-shift change in forced expiratory volume in one second was more common in the industry with old technology. Obstructive feature on lung function test was also observed in workers of both industries. Conclusion: The study concluded that exposure to jute dust has contributed to both acute and chronic respiratory health effects in the jute industry workers. Modernized industry showed lesser prevalence of acute symptoms and changes related to byssinosis. Modernization of processes in jute industries may prove fruitful in lowering the respiratory problems of workers.  Nipah virus: South India in panic mode Jasmine Shanthi Kamath, Shruthi Hegde, Vidya Ajila Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):177-178

The untold story of fluoridation: Revisiting the changing perspectives Maitreyee P Unde, Raju Umaji Patil, Persis P Dastoor Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):121-127 The discovery of fluoride in dentistry has revolutionized treatment modalities with a new aspect of prevention and conservation of tooth structure coming into foreplay. Since then, there has been a lot of research on both topical and systemic fluoridation in an overzealous attempt to control the most debilitating dental problem of caries. Although topical fluoride is still being widely used as a preventive measure for dental caries, systemic administration of the same has gained major criticism worldwide due to the low margin of safety of fluoride and no control over the amount of individual intake when administered on a community level. This problem is more prevalent in countries with presence of natural fluoride belts that extend from Turkey to China and Japan through Iraq, Iran, and Afghanistan increasing the chances of both dental and skeletal fluorosis and hence increasing the focus toward defluoridation. This historical review highlights the distribution of fluoride worldwide and in India and also discusses about the various claims of the antifluoride lobby.

Occupational and environmental exposure to lead and reproductive health impairment: An overview Sunil Kumar Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):128-137 Lead is a heavy metal. It is used in lead-acid battery, as a coloring agent, paints, and metal alloyed as shielding materials, smelters, printing press, and so on. It is a toxic metal affecting various organs, and developing fetus and young children are more vulnerable to toxicity of lead. This overview is based on the information of toxic potential of lead to human reproduction and reproductive outcome. Exposure to lead may affect libido, semen quality by declining sperm count, motility, viability, integrity, elevation in morphological abnormalities, and sperm DNA integrity. These alterations led to reducing fertility potential and chances of miscarriages, preterm birth, and so on in a partner. Lead exposure impairs hormonal synthesis and regulations in both sexes. Lead exposure also affects female reproduction by impairing menstruations, reducing fertility potential, delaying conception time, altering the hormonal production, circulation, affecting pregnancy and its outcome, and so on. At present, the safe dose of lead cannot be advocated as more and more data are generated in recent years which indicate the toxic potential of lead to human reproduction at a low level that was previously thought not to have such effect. Hence, use of lead should be stopped/avoided or restricted to safeguard human reproduction.

Upper extremity muscular strength in push–pull tasks: Model approach towards task design Joydeep Majumder, Sanjay M Kotadiya, Lokesh Kumar Sharma, Sunil Kumar Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):138-143 Background: Pushing and pulling in workplaces are common actions. Repetitive forceful exertions in long-duration works lead to increased risk of musculoskeletal disorders and injuries. Aim: To investigate the upper extremity strength in generic push–pull modes while using hand tools and forecasting the limits of the workers while frequent or continuous operation. Settings and Design: The study was conducted among men workers in Ahmedabad city, India, and the design was cross-sectional study. Materials and Methods: In all, 100 men were recruited (Group 1: 18–39 years and Group 2: 40–60 years). Upper extremity muscular strength (isometric mode) testing of the preferred hand during push–pull type of manual hand-tool operations was carried out for 60 s. Forecasting of strength to generate predictions for future events (120 s) based on known past events (measured 60 s) was carried out using Holt–Winters time-series model. Statistical Analysis: Descriptive statistics was used for analysis. For prediction model evaluation, WEKA 3.8.2 was used. Results: Anthropometric parameters of both groups were similar, having no effect on generated strength. Largely, pull strength was recorded to be higher than push strength, wherein Group 2 men generated slightly higher strength. Seated strength was also higher than standing exertion. Forecasting reveals steady strength values for Group 1 men, whereas steep decline among Group 2 men with increasing duration of trial. Conclusion: The strength data generated would aid in work schedule design. Strength forecasting model would assist in developing engineering guidelines in the design of tools at workplace.

Effects of occupational heat exposure on traffic police workers in Ahmedabad, Gujarat Amee Raval, Priya Dutta, Abhiyant Tiwari, PS Ganguly, LM Sathish, Dileep Mavalankar, Jeremy Hess Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):144-151 One of the most concerning environmental effects of climate change is rising levels of extreme heat, which already poses serious risks in many parts of the world. In June and July 2015, we collected weekly heat exposure data using area and personal temperature monitoring in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The study was conducted at four different traffic junctions with a cohort of 16 traffic police. For information on health effects, we administered a baseline survey at the start of the study and prospectively followed up with the officers on prevalence of heat-related symptoms. Wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) levels ranged from 28.2°C to 36.1°C during the study period. Traffic police workers who participated in this study were exposed to WBGT levels higher than the recommended threshold limit value as per American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists guidelines even beyond the hottest months of the season. Our findings suggest that airport measurements by the Indian Meteorological Department may not accurately capture heat exposures among individuals who work in and alongside high-density traffic junctions. Based on our temperature estimates, traffic police are at risk for heat stress. India is likely to experience warmer temperatures and increased heat waves in the coming decades, fueled by climate change. Therefore, it is important to reduce current and future heat-related risks for traffic police workers and similar occupational risk groups by establishing protection strategies. The protocol established in this study for occupational heat exposure assessment could be applied to a larger cohort.

The exposure to pollutants of the auto repair workers: Monitoring their oxidative stress Roberto Menicagli, O Marotta, L Menicagli Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):152-155 Background and Aim: Auto repair workers are exposed to multiple pollutants, each of them potentially risks, dangerous for several target organs. The aim of this study is to identify their possible overall effect, by monitoring the concentration of salivary malondialdehyde, index of oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Malondialdehyde of 25 male workers, smokers and non-smokers, further divided into two subgroups relatively to the amplitude of their working place, was monitored, in the saliva, with the Thiobarbituric acid method. The control group consists of 12 and 13 male smokers, and 13 non-smokers. Univariate (UVA) and Multivariate (MVA) analysis methods were used to analyze the results. Results: No variable is significant (P ≥ 0.05) for the control group using UVA, while age and smoking significantly increase the levels of MDA (P ≤ 0.05) using MVA. For workers group, the age and the place of work increase the MDA (P ≤ 0.05) using UVA analysis, while only the place of work remains significant (≤0.05) using MVA analysis. MVA analysis reveals that, besides the type of work, also the age and smoking significantly increase the level of MDA, as a result of a higher exposure to pollutants. Conclusions: You can check the cumulative effect of pollutants on auto repair workers, by monitoring the salivary malondialdehyde.

Impact of school air quality on children's respiratory health Peter Fsadni, Frank Bezzina, Claudia Fsadni, Stephen Montefort Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):156-162 Background: Asthma is common in children with indoor pollutants influencing the development of the disease. Since children spend most of their time outside their homes within the school environment, school indoor air quality can directly influence their respiratory health. Aims: This study aims to analyze the indoor and outdoor air quality of Maltese schools and if an association exists between indoor pollutants and respiratory health in children. Settings and Design: Five primary schools were selected with 9- to 11-year-old students participating. Materials and Methods: Standardized health questionnaires and lung function tests were utilized. Indoor and outdoor air sampling together with traffic counts were carried out. Statistical Analysis Used: SPSS version 21 was used and the Chi-squared, logistic regression, and Pearson's correlation were used. Results: The mean indoor PM 2.5 level of 17.78 μg/m3 and CO (9.11 ppm) exceeded World Health Organization thresholds. Indoor ozone levels exceeded the mean European school's indoor ozone concentration of 8 μg/m3. High exposure to formaldehyde, NO2, and ozone was associated with atopy in children. Heavy vehicles passing near the schools were associated with current wheezing (P < 0.001) but not nocturnal cough (P = 0.34). Conclusions: School indoor and outdoor environment has a direct impact on children's respiratory health. This study has identified significant associations between high exposures to indoor air pollutants, school characteristics, and upper and lower airway inflammation.

Work related musculoskeletal disorders and postural stress of the women cultivators engaged in uprooting job of rice cultivation Amitava Pal, Prakash C Dhara Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):163-169 Aims: A large number of workers including women are involved in the informal sector in India. A majority of them are engaged in agricultural sectors. The agricultural workers have to perform their jobs by putting manual labor and are exposed to different occupational stresses. The present study was aimed to evaluate postural stress and prevalence of musculoskeletal disorder (MSD) of women cultivators engaged in uprooting job of rice cultivation. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 166 women cultivators from different districts of West Bengal state, India. Materials and Methods: Prevalence and intensity of MSDs of the cultivators were evaluated by Nordic questionnaire and 10-point body part discomfort scale. Work rest pattern and postural pattern were studied by direct observation method. Postural stress was assessed by OVAKO Working Postures Analysis System (OWAS), Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA), Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA), and Quick Exposure Checklist (QEC) methods and as well as by measuring center of gravity. Results and Conclusions: MSD was highly prevalent among the study participants. Lower back, hip, wrist, shoulder, and knee were highly affected. Higher prevalence of MSDs among the cultivators may be because of prolonged working hours and awkward postures. The women cultivators had to start their day before dawn to finish off their household chores such as cooking, cleaning, washing clothes and dishes, etc., before they moved off to the fields, which altogether impose them under additional stress. It may be suggested that ergonomic interventions such as modifying work-rest schedules, improving work postures, and introducing new design hand tools should be considered for improving work condition of the women cultivators.

A comparative study of byssinosis in jute industries Asim Saha, Anirban Das, Bhaskar Prasad Chattopadhyay, Jane Alam, Tilak Kanti Dasgupta Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):170-176 Background: Byssinosis is an acute respiratory difficulty that is caused usually following exposure to cotton and hemp dust. Occurrence of such similar acute symptoms had been reported following exposure to jute dust/fiber also. With passage of time, Jute industries have modernized themselves for increased quality and productivity, which has lessened workforce and thereby provided more working space. However, occupational health benefit due to such changes has rarely been explored. This study was initiated to understand whether this modernization can protect the health of workers. Methodology: This study was carried out in two jute mills manufacturing jute clothes, jute bags, and so on. Interview of the workers for their occupational and morbidity details, medical examinations, as well as pre-shift and post-shift pulmonary function tests was carried out. Results: It was observed that chest tightness was significantly more in the industry with old technologies. Breathlessness was also more in this industry. As far as pulmonary function status is concerned, it was noted that greater than 5% cross-shift change in forced expiratory volume in one second was more common in the industry with old technology. Obstructive feature on lung function test was also observed in workers of both industries. Conclusion: The study concluded that exposure to jute dust has contributed to both acute and chronic respiratory health effects in the jute industry workers. Modernized industry showed lesser prevalence of acute symptoms and changes related to byssinosis. Modernization of processes in jute industries may prove fruitful in lowering the respiratory problems of workers.

Nipah virus: South India in panic mode Jasmine Shanthi Kamath, Shruthi Hegde, Vidya Ajila Indian Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine 2018 22(3):177-178

Bloating in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Is Associated with Symptoms Severity, Psychological Factors, and Comorbidities

Abstract

Background

Bloating is one of the most bothersome symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but its association with other symptoms is not well described.

Aims

We investigated the association between symptoms of abdominal bloating, other IBS symptoms, psychological distress, and comorbid pain conditions.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study on a large cohort of IBS patients with and without symptoms of abdominal bloating and healthy controls. Subjects were assessed for IBS and its subtypes, pain severity, symptoms severity, psychological disturbances, comorbidities, and dietary restrictions of three fluid groups.

Results

A total of 484 subjects were investigated. Compared with IBS − B, IBS + B subjects had higher rates of constipation (30% vs. 15%, p = 0.191) and lower rates of diarrhea, (70% vs. 85%, p = 0.191) although these were not statistically significant. Bloating severity correlated with IBS symptoms severity (r = 0.397, p = 0.000), pain severity (r = 0.364, p = 0.000), and both anxiety and somatization scores (r = 0.167, p = 0.015 and r = 0.219, p = 0.001, respectively). Prevalence of fibromyalgia and depression and somatization scores was significantly higher in IBS with bloating than in IBS without bloating. IBS patients with bloating reported more dietary restriction of three fluid groups to control their symptoms compared with healthy controls and IBS patients without bloating.

Conclusions

Abdominal bloating in IBS is associated with increased symptoms and pain severity, somatization, depression, fibromyalgia, and altered dietary fluids composition. Recognizing and addressing these factors in the diagnosis and management of patients with IBS may improve clinical outcome.

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The lack of slow force response in failing rat myocardium: role of stretch-induced modulation of Ca–TnC kinetics

Abstract

The slow force response (SFR) to stretch is an important adaptive mechanism of the heart. The SFR may result in ~ 20–30% extra force but it is substantially attenuated in heart failure. We investigated the relation of SFR magnitude with Ca²⁺ transient decay in healthy (CONT) and monocrotaline-treated rats with heart failure (MCT). Right ventricular trabeculae were stretched from 85 to 95% of optimal length and held stretched for 10 min at 30 °C and 1 Hz. Isometric twitches and Ca²⁺ transients were collected on 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 min after stretch. The changes in peak tension and Ca²⁺ transient decay characteristics during SFR were evaluated as a percentage of the value measured immediately after stretch. The amount of Ca²⁺ utilized by TnC was indirectly evaluated using the methods of Ca²⁺ transient "bump" and "difference curve." The muscles of CONT rats produced positive SFR and they showed prominent functional relation between SFR magnitude and the magnitude (amplitude, integral intensity) of Ca²⁺ transient "bump" and "difference curve." The myocardium of MCT rats showed negative SFR to stretch (force decreased in time) which was not correlated well with the characteristics of Ca²⁺ transient decay, evaluated by the methods of "bump" and "difference curve." We conclude that the intracellular mechanisms of Ca²⁺ balancing during stretch-induced slow adaptation of myocardial contractility are disrupted in failing rat myocardium. The potential significance of our findings is that the deficiency of slow force response in diseased myocardium may be diminished under augmented kinetics of Ca–TnC interaction.

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Transcranial magnetic stimulation for neuromodulation of the operculo‐insular cortex in humans

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CrossTalk proposal: Blood flow pulsatility in left ventricular assist device patients is essential to maintain normal brain physiology

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CrossTalk opposing view: Blood flow pulsatility in left ventricular assist device patients is not essential to maintain normal brain physiology

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Rebuttal from Eric J. Stöhr, Barry J. McDonnell, Paolo C. Colombo and Joshua Z. Willey

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Issue Information

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Rebuttal from William K. Cornwell III, Takashi Tarumi, Justin Lawley and Amrut V. Ambardekar

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Integrated Analysis of miRNA and mRNA Expression Profiles Reveals Functional miRNA-Targets in Development Testes of Small Tail Han Sheep

Small Tail Han Sheep is a highly valued local breed in China because of their precocity, perennial estrus, and high fecundity. The average annual lambing rate of ewes is as high as 180%-270%, the semen of ram has characteristics of high yield, high density, and good motility. To reveal the key miRNAs and miRNA-targets underlying testis development and spermatogenesis in male Small Tail Han Sheep, integrated analysis of miRNA and mRNA expression profiles in 2-, 6-, and 12-month-old testes was performed by RNA-seq technology and bioinformatics methods. The results showed that total of 153 known sheep miRNAs and 2712 novel miRNAs were obtained in 2-，6 - and 12-month-old Small Tail Han Sheep testes; 5, 1, and 4 differentially expressed (DE) known sheep miRNAs, and 132, 105, and 24 DE novel miRNAs were identified in 2- vs 6-, 6- vs 12-, and 2- vs 12-month-old testes, respectively. We combined miRNA results of this study and the mRNA results obtained in our previous study to predict the target mRNAs of DE known sheep miRNAs; 131, 10, and 15 target mRNAs of DE known sheep miRNAs and 76, 1, and 11 DE miRNA-targets were identified in the three groups, respectively. GO and KEGG analyses showed that: in 2- vs 6-month-olds, the target genes of DE known sheep miRNAs were involved in 100 biological processes and 11 signaling pathways; in 6- vs 12-month-olds, the target genes of DE known sheep miRNAs were involved in 4 biological processes; and in 2- vs 12-month-olds, the target genes of DE known sheep miRNAs were involved in 17 biological processes and 4 signaling pathways. Three miR-target regulatory networks were constructed based on these DE miRNA-targets. The key miRNA-Targets involved in testis development and spermatogenesis were screened. 6 known sheep miRNAs and 6 novel miRNAs were selected to validate the accuracy of miRNA sequencing data by qRT-PCR. The binding sites of oar-miR-379-5p with WNT8A was validated by a dual luciferase reporter gene detection system.

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Grant funds provide Tenn. EMS agency with 8 new stretchers

The battery-powered stretchers cost nearly $160,000, and the grant paid for 90 percent of the purchase

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Muscle fatigue assessment during robot-mediated movements

Several neuromuscular disorders present muscle fatigue as a typical symptom. Therefore, a reliable method of fatigue assessment may be crucial for understanding how specific disease features evolve over time a...

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Severity and incidence of complications assessed by the Clavien–Dindo classification following robotic and laparoscopic gastrectomy for advanced gastric cancer: a retrospective and propensity score-matched study

Abstract

Background

Robot-assisted gastrectomy (RAG) has been increasingly used for the treatment of advanced gastric cancer (AGC), and many advantages over laparoscopy-assisted gastrectomy (LAG) have been reported. However, its postgastrectomy complications still under investigation and the results remain controversial. This study aimed to objectively assess the incidence and severity of complications following RAG vs. LAG using Clavien–Dindo (C–D) classification and to identify risk factors related to complications.

Methods

Five hundred and twenty-seven patients with AGC who underwent RAG or LAG between January 2016 and May 2018 were enrolled in this study. Complications were categorized according to the C–D classification. The complications following RAG and LAG were compared using one-to-one propensity score matching (PSM) analysis and subgroup analyses. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors related to complications.

Results

RAG was performed in 251 patients (47.6%) and LAG in 276 patients (52.4%). Before PSM, the RAG group had a smaller tumour size (P = 0.004) and less patients with previous abdominal operation (P = 0.013). After PSM, a well-balanced cohort of 446 patients (223 in each group) was further analyzed. Of interest, the incidence of overall and severe complications (C–D grade ≥ IIIa) following the RAG group were significantly fewer than the LAG group (overall, 24.5% vs. 18.8%, P < 0.001; severe, 8.9% vs. 17.5%, P = 0.002). Subgroup analyses showed statistically significant difference were also observed in most stratified parameters. Multivariable analysis identified age ≥ 65 years, total gastrectomy, stage T3–T4a, stage II–III, and operation time ≥ 250 min as independent predictors of overall complications. Additionally, age ≥ 65 years, stage II–III, and operation time ≥ 250 min were confirmed as independent risk factors for severe complications.

Conclusions

RAG with D2 lymphadenectomy is feasible and safe for the treatment of AGC in terms of the lower incidence and severity of complications.

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Developing a Strategy to Embed Peer Support into Mental Health Systems

Abstract

Globally, health care systems stakeholders have encouraged health systems change that reflects recovery oriented practice. The implementation and integration of Peer Support Workers is one such strategy. Yet, what factors should be considered in the implementation of these roles? How can services be integrated effectively? Recent literature will be reviewed to explore current knowledge about peer support, and offer considerations for effective implementation of peer supports into current health care systems.

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Phthalate Exposure in Pregnant Women: Risk Perception and Preventive Advice of Perinatal Health Professionals

Abstract

Objectives The main objective of the PERI–HELPE study (Perception of Risk–HEaLth Professionals and Environment Study) was to describe the knowledge of perinatal health professionals about phthalates and the preventive advice they give to pregnant women about exposure to these chemicals. The secondary objective was to determine whether giving preventive advice was associated with the perception of phthalates. Methods A cross-sectional study was performed in 2015 in France. One hundred and eighty-nine perinatal health professionals (obstetricians, midwives and general practitioners) replied to an online self-administered questionnaire (participation rate: 11%). Results Only 17% of health professionals felt able to provide appropriate answers to pregnant women about phthalates. Advice was given by 23% (avoid plastic kitchen cling film) to 75% (prefer homemade dishes) about eating habits, by less than 42% for the use of cosmetics and less than 25% for that of consumer products. After adjusting for covariates, the awareness that pregnant women are daily exposed to phthalates (44% of professionals) was associated with dietary advice [avoid pre-packaged food (OR 2.2; 95% CI 1.1–4.4), prefer homemade dishes (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.2–5.9) and avoid plastic kitchen cling film (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.0–5.6)] but not with advice about cosmetics or consumer products. The perception of phthalate exposure as a high risk (66%) was not associated with preventive advice. Conclusions for Practice Our sample size was not very large but the findings nevertheless show the lack of knowledge of perinatal health professionals about phthalates. If they are to take on a preventive role, health professionals in France need to be better informed about phthalates and more fully trained in environmental health in general.

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Cell Death and Differentiation

• 
  Sphingolipid-mediated inflammatory signaling leading to autophagy inhibition converts erythropoiesis to myelopoiesis in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells

  Posted:2018-12-13

  Sphingolipid-mediated inflammatory signaling leading to autophagy inhibition converts erythropoiesis to myelopoiesis in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells

  Sphingolipid-mediated inflammatory signaling leading to autophagy inhibition converts erythropoiesis to myelopoiesis in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells, Published online: 13 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0245-x

  Sphingolipid-mediated inflammatory signaling leading to autophagy inhibition converts erythropoiesis to myelopoiesis in human hematopoietic stem/progenitor cells

• Author Correction: Eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow is promoted by protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2

  Posted:2018-12-13

  Author Correction: Eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow is promoted by protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2

  Author Correction: Eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow is promoted by protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2, Published online: 13 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0247-8

  Author Correction: Eosinophil differentiation in the bone marrow is promoted by protein tyrosine phosphatase SHP2

• Post-translational modifications of Beclin 1 provide multiple strategies for autophagy regulation

  Posted:2018-12-13

  Post-translational modifications of Beclin 1 provide multiple strategies for autophagy regulation

  Post-translational modifications of Beclin 1 provide multiple strategies for autophagy regulation, Published online: 13 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0254-9

  Post-translational modifications of Beclin 1 provide multiple strategies for autophagy regulation

• Author Correction: ATF4 regulation of mitochondrial folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism is neuroprotective

  Posted:2018-12-13

  Author Correction: ATF4 regulation of mitochondrial folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism is neuroprotective

  Author Correction: ATF4 regulation of mitochondrial folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism is neuroprotective, Published online: 13 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0253-x

  Author Correction: ATF4 regulation of mitochondrial folate-mediated one-carbon metabolism is neuroprotective

• By reducing global mRNA translation in several ways, 2-deoxyglucose lowers MCL-1 protein and sensitizes hemopoietic tumor cells to BH3 mimetic ABT737

  Posted:2018-12-11

  By reducing global mRNA translation in several ways, 2-deoxyglucose lowers MCL-1 protein and sensitizes hemopoietic tumor cells to BH3 mimetic ABT737

  By reducing global mRNA translation in several ways, 2-deoxyglucose lowers MCL-1 protein and sensitizes hemopoietic tumor cells to BH3 mimetic ABT737, Published online: 11 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0244-y

  By reducing global mRNA translation in several ways, 2-deoxyglucose lowers MCL-1 protein and sensitizes hemopoietic tumor cells to BH3 mimetic ABT737

• The proneural gene <i>ASCL1</i> governs the transcriptional subgroup affiliation in glioblastoma stem cells by directly repressing the mesenchymal gene <i>NDRG1</i>

  Posted:2018-12-11

  The proneural gene ASCL1 governs the transcriptional subgroup affiliation in glioblastoma stem cells by directly repressing the mesenchymal gene NDRG1

  The proneural gene <i>ASCL1</i> governs the transcriptional subgroup affiliation in glioblastoma stem cells by directly repressing the mesenchymal gene <i>NDRG1</i>, Published online: 11 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0248-7

  The proneural gene ASCL1 governs the transcriptional subgroup affiliation in glioblastoma stem cells by directly repressing the mesenchymal gene NDRG1

• Mutant p53 as a guardian of the cancer cell

  Posted:2018-12-11

  Mutant p53 as a guardian of the cancer cell

  Mutant p53 as a guardian of the cancer cell, Published online: 11 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0246-9

  Mutant p53 as a guardian of the cancer cell

• A DHX9-lncRNA-MDM2 interaction regulates cell invasion and angiogenesis of cervical cancer

  Posted:2018-12-05

  A DHX9-lncRNA-MDM2 interaction regulates cell invasion and angiogenesis of cervical cancer

  A DHX9-lncRNA-MDM2 interaction regulates cell invasion and angiogenesis of cervical cancer, Published online: 05 December 2018; doi:10.1038/s41418-018-0242-0

  A DHX9-lncRNA-MDM2 interaction regulates cell invasion and angiogenesis of cervical cancer

Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation (Egypt Rheumatol Rehabil) 2019 | January-March | Volume 46 | Issue 1

Intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma and therapeutic exercise in knee osteoarthritis Mona E. M Badr, Eman A. R Hafez, Atif I El-Ghaweet, Heba M El-Sayed Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):1-10 Context There is no definite treatment strategy capable of decreasing destruction of cartilage and enhancing its healing. Intra-articular injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) provides a lot of growth factors that are capable of stimulating regeneration of cartilage and is supposed to be a future solution to patients with osteoarthritis (OA). Aim To detect the efficacy of intra-articular injection of PRP or therapeutic exercise (Ex) alone as well as a combination of both in the treatment of idiopathic knee OA. Settings and design A prospective randomized controlled clinical study was conducted. Patients and methods A total of 60 patients, 44 to 65 years of age, having idiopathic unilateral knee OA were included in the study and were divided into three groups: PRP group included 20 patients and were treated with intra-articular PRP injection, Ex group included 20 patients and were treated with only therapeutic Ex, and PRP and Ex group included 20 patients who were treated with both PRP intra-articular injection and therapeutic Ex. Evaluation of all patients was done by visual analogue scale, tenderness, range of motion, thigh circumference, and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Arthritis Index (WOMAC) scores at baseline and 1 and 6 months later. Objective evaluation was done through MRI of osteoarthritic knee at baseline and 6 months later. Statistical analysis Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS for windows, version 20.0. Results Baseline WOMAC score differences among the three groups were not statistically significant but were significant 6 months after treatment. In PRP and Ex groups, there was a significant improvement after treatment, whereas a highly significant improvement in PRP+Ex group. MRI grading differences among the three groups were not significant before or after treatment, with no improvement in all three groups after treatment. Conclusion A combination of intra-articular injection of PRP and therapeutic Ex resulted in significantly lesser visual analogue scale, WOMAC score, and joint tenderness compared with PRP or Ex alone.

Association of rheumatoid arthritis disease activity, severity with electrocardiographic findings, and carotid artery atherosclerosis Samia M Abd El-Monem, Ahmed Y Ali, Nashwa I Hashaad, Ahmed M Bendary, Hend A.F Abd El-Aziz Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):11-20 Aim The aim was to detect specific ECG changes in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients as well as to study atherosclerotic changes of the carotid arteries as an indicator of cardiovascular system risk factors and to correlate findings with disease activity and severity parameters to elucidate possible associations between these variables. Patients and methods This study included 30 RA patients, 30 age-matched and sex-matched systemic lupus erythematosus patients and 30 age-matched and sex-matched healthy volunteers as control groups. The patients were subjected to clinical examination, assessment of disease activity score-28 (DAS28), functional disability Health Assessment Questionnaire, and laboratory and radiological assessments. ECG and measurement of the carotid intima media thickness (CIMT) by carotid ultrasound scan was also done. Results Ten (33.3%) RA patients had ECG abnormalities, with ST or T-wave abnormality being the most common abnormality present. RA patients had the highest frequencies of ECG abnormalities. Most ECG changes occurred in RA patients using steroids (90%). ST or T-wave abnormality in RA occurred more in patients with a higher swollen joint count, higher DAS28, and a higher patients’ global health assessment. RA patients had the highest mean. The mean CIMT was significantly higher in RA patients with ECG abnormalities. There were significant positive correlations of average CIMT with DAS28, Health Assessment Questionnaire, and Simple Erosion Narrowing Score. There were significant positive correlations of mean CIMT with the level of triglycerides, cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate, and a highly significant correlation between mean CIMT and C-reactive protein. CIMT at a cut-off point of 0.75 mm can predict ECG abnormalities with high sensitivity and specificity. Conclusion ECG changes were present in 33.3% of RA patients. Increased CIMT was observed in RA patients and correlated well with disease activity and severity parameters.

The therapeutic application of functional electrical stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation in rehabilitation of the hand function in incomplete cervical spinal cord injury Shereen Fawaz, Fatma Kamel, Ahmed El Yasaky, Heba El Shishtawy, Ahmed Genedy, Reda M Awad, Lobna El Nabil Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):21-26 Background Functional electrical stimulation (FES) therapy has a potential to improve voluntary grasping and induce plastic changes among individuals with tetraplegia secondary to traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI). Also, evidence suggests that the use of high frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to increase corticomotor excitability improves hand function in persons with cervical SCI. Purpose Our randomized controlled trial was carried out to compare the two rehabilitation programs, the first applied to FES and real rTMS whereas the second applied to FES and sham rTMS, with repect to hand function in chronic traumatic incomplete cervical SCI patients, and also with respect to changes in cortical excitability, and its relation to hand function before and after the rehabilitation programs. Patients and methods Our study included 22 patients with chronic traumatic incomplete SCI. Patients were randomly assigned into two groups, 11 patients each. Group I patients received FES for 12 weeks with an additional real rTMS therapy for the last two weeks, at 10 Hz frequency, subthreshold intensity for a total of 1500 pulse per session for 10 sessions. Whereas group II patients received FES for 12 weeks with an additional sham rTMS therapy for the last two weeks. All were followed by an intensive hand training program. Patients were assessed: using hand function tests (action research arm test, modified Sollerman hand function test, nine-hole pegboard scale, and finger tapping test) and corticomotor excitability tests (using amplitude of motor evoked potential). Conclusion Our study showed statistically significant improvements in hand function tests in group I, who received FES in addition to real rTMS therapy in comparison with group II, who received FES in addition to sham rTMS at 12-week assessment. This could support the evidence of the additional benefit of real rTMS therapy for 10 sessions/2 weeks in improving hand function and motor recovery following SCI.

Electromyographic study to predict functional outcome of transforaminal epidural steroid injection in lumbosacral radiculopathy Hussein Sultan, Tamer H Shehata, Wafaa S El-Emary, Shehad M Fakhry Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):27-34 Context Epidural steriod injections (ESIs) are commonly used for managment of lumbosacral radiculopathy (LSR). Predicting outcomes after ESIs could be another valuable application of needle electromyography (EMG) in these patients. Aim The aim was to determine if EMG study can predict the functional outcome of transforaminal ESIs in patients with LSR. Materials and methods The study included 20 patients with clinical diagnosis of LSR. Peripheral nerve conduction study, late responses, somatomsensory evoked potentials, and needle EMG were performed in both lower limbs followed by transforaminal ESI under fluoroscopic guidance. The functional outcome was evaluated using visual analog scale for pain and Oswestry disability index (ODI) that were performed before and after injections. Results There were statistically significant decrease in pain severity (visual analog scale; P=0.022) and in ODI (improvement in functional score; P=0.029) after injection in patients with symptom duration less than 3 months compared with patients with longer duration of symptoms. In patients with negative EMG findings, there was a significantly greater reduction in pain severity (P<0.01) and ODI score (P<0.01) after injection compared with patients with positive findings. Regression analysis showed that negative needle EMG findings were significant predictors of pain reduction (P=0.001) and functional improvement (P=0.002) in patients with LSR after ESI. Conclusion This study supports the notion that EMG studies can be used for prediction of functional outcome in patients with LSR performing transforaminal ESI.

Body, wrist, and hand anthropometric measurements as risk factors for carpal tunnel syndrome Mohamed H Imam, Marwa M Hasan, Rehab A ELnemr, Riham H El-Sayed Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):35-41 Aim The aim of this study was to identify cut-off values for body, hand, and wrist measurements in order to correctly identify individuals with increased risk of carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). Patients and methods This study included 30 patients with clinically diagnosed and electrophysiologically confirmed idiopathic CTS and 30 age-matched and sex-matched healthy volunteers as the control group. Both groups performed sensory and motor conduction studies of the median nerve. Body, hand, and wrist anthropometric measurements were taken including weight, height, waist circumference, hip circumferences, wrist depth/width, third digit length, palm length/width, and hand length. Obesity indicators and hand/wrist ratios were calculated. Area under the ROC curve (AUC), confidence intervals, cut-off values, sensitivity, and specificity were calculated separately for each measured parameter. Results There were statistically significant differences among the studied participants regarding all measured anthropometric parameters (P<0.001). As a result, all studied patients had squarer wrists and shorter hands than healthy participants. The AUC values for all studied measurements showed high accuracy (AUC<95) except for hip circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, palm length, third digit length, and digit index which showed moderate accuracy. In the studied patients there were positive significant correlations between BMI, wrist depth, wrist ratio, and shape index with an electrophysiological severity grading of CTS of the studied patients; on the other hand, there were negative significant correlations between palm length, hand length, and hand ratio with electrophysiological severity grading of CTS. Conclusion The cut-off values for body, wrist, and hand anthropometric measurements are useful tools to assess the risk factors for CTS.

Importance of patient education in management of patients with rheumatoid arthritis: an intervention study Soha H Senara, Wafaa Y Abdel Wahed, Shimaa E Mabrouk Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):42-47 Background People living with chronic diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are extremely in need of patient education (PE) to adapt and cope with the effects of the disease and treatments. PE comprises all educational activities provided for patients, including aspects of therapeutic education, health education, and health promotion. Objective The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of PE program following the eight evidence-based EULAR-2015 recommendations in the management of patients with RA. Patients and methods A randomized controlled clinical trial with two parallel arms was carried out at the Department of Rheumatology and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Egypt. One hundred patients (both sexes) having RA were included in the study, and their mean age was 39.23±11.28 years, with range from 19 to 71 years. Patients were randomly allocated into two comparable groups: group I received health education through designed PE program and group II did not receive PE program. Disease activity and disability were assessed at the start of study and at two visits later, that is, after 3 months and 6 months, by using the 28 joint disease activity score 28 and the Health Assessment Questionnaire disability index. Results On comparing laboratory investigation and outcome scores at follow-up visits, although there were no significant differences between the two study groups regarding laboratory investigation, disease activity score 28 and Health Assessment Questionnaire scores at the start of the study, comparative differences were reported in the follow-up visits. Significant decreases in the laboratory values and scores were reported in group I, whereas no difference was reported in group II. Conclusion PE interventions in patients with RA documented significant improvements in behavior, pain, and disability among these patients.

Depression in patients with chronic low back pain N Nassar, N Assaf, D Farrag, D Ibrahim, A Al-Sheekh Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):48-54 Background Low back pain is a common health issue affecting at least 80% of individuals during their lifetime. It is usually recurrent and develops into chronic low back pain (CLBP). In chronic pain, psychosocial risk factors become relevant, and may explain how individuals respond to pain. CLBP is often comorbid with depression. Aim The aim of this study was to detect if there is an association between depression and functional disability in patients with CLBP. Patients and methods This cross-sectional, descriptive preliminary study included 50 patients with CLBP. Pain intensity was measured using visual analogue scale (VAS), functional disability was measured using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and depression assessment was done using Beck depression inventory (BDI) questionnaire II. Results The mean age of the patients was 43.66±13.96 years. Mean scores for VAS, ODI, and BDI were 5.38±2.42, 18.66±7.26, and 22.40±9.20, respectively. A strong positive correlation was found between VAS and each of ODI and BDI (r=0.797 and 0.515, respectively; P=0.000). Similarly, a positive significant linear relation was detected between degree of disability by ODI and severity of depression by BDI (P=0.039). Conclusion Depression strongly influences pain intensity and degree of disability in patients with CLBP. Screening and early management of depression is essential for reducing pain and disability associated with CLBP.

Comparative study between platelet-rich plasma injection and steroid injection in mild–moderate shoulder osteoarthritis and their relation to quality of life Dalia Salah Saif, Deena Mamdouh Serag, Mohamed Ahmed El Tabl Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):55-61 Context Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disorder that causes joint pain and stiffness. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is considered a recent effective line of management of OA. Aims To compare the effect of local injection of PRP versus steroid in shoulder OA and their relation to quality of life. Patients and methods This study included 50 patients with mild–moderate OA shoulder diagnosed according to Samilson and Prieto grading system of shoulder OA and were recruited from the outpatient clinic of physical medicine, and rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University Hospital, in the period between 2017 and 2018. The study included both sexes. Group I included 25 patients who were injected intra-articularly with PRP in the affected shoulder, and group II included 25 patients who were injected with triamcinolone acetate. They were evaluated by Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Shoulder index and visual analogue scale before and after injection. Statistical analysis A descriptive and analytic study by SPSS, version 16, on IBM compatible computer was done. Results There was a highly statistical significant difference between preinjection and postinjection parameters regarding Western Ontario Osteoarthritis Shoulder score and visual analogue scale in both groups, with more improvement in the PRP group. Conclusion Intra-articular injections with PRP and steroids are effective less-invasive lines of shoulder OA treatment, with superiority to PRP owing to more persistence of its effects.

Comparison between the roles of musculoskeletal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging in detection of joint inflammation and destruction in rheumatoid arthritis Sherihan M Salama Egyptian Rheumatology and Rehabilitation 2019 46(1):62-69 Background Detection of early signs of synovitis and bone erosions by modern radiological techniques such as musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) and MRI has gained a great interest, as early diagnosis and treatment to target for patients of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has its impact on disease control. Aim The aim of the following study is to detect the ability of US compared with MRI for the early detection of joint synovitis and bone erosion in RA patients. Patients and methods Six hundred joints (second to fifth metacarpophalangeal joints and second to fifth proximal interphalangeal joints) were examined in 50 patients with RA diagnosis. Clinical assessment, noncontrast MRI, US, and conventional radiography were performed for synovitis and bone erosion evaluation. Results and conclusion We concluded that both US and MRI had high ability to detect inflamed joints with close agreement but favoring the US, especially with the added value of power Doppler US where it can reflect increased vascularity associated with inflammation and also with higher scores for these affected joints than that shown by MRI. On the other hand, the study has found that although both US and MRI had high ability to detect erosions with close agreement, the MRI favorably had higher scores for joint erosions compared with the scores shown by US.

Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation (J Egypt Soc Nephrol Transplant) 2018 | October-December | Volume 18 | Issue 4

Relation of wnt-signaling antagonist sclerostin to valvular calcification and carotid intimal-medial thickness in hemodialysis patients Ghada El-Said, Mohamed AbdAlbary, Ahmed Bahi, Rash R Elzehry, Ghada El-Kannishy Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):103-111 Introduction Sclerostin (Scl) is a Wnt pathway antagonist and is considered to have a role in the bone-vascular axis in patients with chronic kidney disease. However, there is a paucity of data on the relation of circulating serum Scl and valvular calcifications (VCs) in chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis (HD) patients. The present study aimed to evaluate the relationship between serum Scl level and cardiac valve calcification (CVC) as well as carotid intimal-medial thickness (CIMT) in HD patients. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study included 75 HD patients in Mansoura Nephrology and Dialysis Unit. Patients with age older than 75 years, rheumatic valvular disease, cardiomyopathy, prosthetic valves, ischemic heart disease, and carotid artery surgery were excluded. Echocardiogram calcification scores were used to assess the degree of aortic and mitral valve calcification. CIMT was measured using B-mode ultrasonography. Patients’ basic clinical and biochemical data were recorded. Serum Scl level was measured using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits before HD sessions. Results CIMT (>0.9 mm) was present in 68% of the patients. Double-valve calcification (aortic and mitral) was present in 72% of the patients and 21.3% of the patients had single-valve calcification. Serum Scl level was significantly higher in studied HD patients than normal healthy control (P=0.05). There was a significant negative correlation between serum Scl level and degree of cardiac valve calcification as well as with CIMT. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that age was the strongest predictor for CIMT in HD patients. Conclusion Cardiac valve calcification and increased CIMT were prevalent in HD patients. Serum Scl level was strongly related to both CVC and CIMT, and it may be considered as one of the calcification modulators in HD patients.

Risk factors, clinical manifestations, and outcomes of Pneumocystis jirovecii infection in post-renal transplant recipients Jitesh Jeswani, Suraj Godara, Chandani Bhagat Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):112-115 Introduction Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is a potentially life-threatening infection that occurs in immunocompromised patients. A timely diagnosis of PJP is difficult and relies on clinical features, imaging, and detection of the organism. The aim of this study was to evaluate the risk factors, clinical presentation, and outcomes for 15 patients who developed PJP infection. Patients and methods A retrospective clinical study included all 578 kidney transplant patients who underwent kidney transplantation at the Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan. Of the 578 patients, 15 patients developed PJP infection. Results The median age of all recipients was 55.3 years. The mean duration of prophylaxis was 6.9 months (range: 3–9 months). Only one patient had cytomegalovirus infection, and eight patients had a history of graft rejection. Most of our patients had fever and cough as the presenting symptoms, and all patients had breathlessness on admission. Bilateral haziness seen on chest radiograph was present in seven patients, and 10 patients had bilateral ground-glass appearance on high-resolution computed tomography scan. PCR finding for PJP was positive in all patients. Mortality was seen in four patients, where all the four cases had received anti-rejection therapy with ATG. Conclusion We concluded that among renal transplant recipients, PJP can still occur several months after transplantation, late after prophylaxis discontinuation. Treatment with anti-rejection therapy appears to be the major risk factor for PJP in these patients.

Predictive value of novel biomarkers for acute kidney injury in critically ill patients at Assiut University Hospitals Effat A.E Tony, Hatem H.M Maghraby, Shady Y Gayed, Ayat A Sayed Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):116-125 Introduction Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a clinical problem in critically ill patients, which is associated with adverse outcomes. There is a persistent need to find reliable biomarkers for the early diagnosis and prediction of AKI. Many genes are upregulated in the damaged kidneys, with the subsequent protein products appearing in the urine. Urinary liver-type fatty acid-binding protein (uL-FABP) and urinary kidney injury molecule-1 (uKIM-1) are among the promising upregulated biomarkers. Aim To assess the ability of uL-FABP in comparison with kidney injury molecule-1 for early prediction of AKI in adult critically ill patients. Patients and methods A cohort study was conducted enrolling 100 critically ill patients admitted to medical critical care units (CCUs) who had risk factors for developing AKI. Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score was calculated on admission. Serum creatinine was measured on admission and thereafter daily till the seventh day of CCU stay. Urine samples for uL-FABP and uKIM-1 assay were collected at the time of CCU admission, on day 3, and on day 5. Results Among critically ill patients, 60% had AKI diagnosed mostly on the second (53.3%) and third (40%) day of CCU admission. There was a significant difference in Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (P<0.001), and duration of CCU stay (P<0.01) between AKI and non-AKI groups. The mean baseline of uKIM-1 was significantly higher in patients with AKI (7.17±1.56 ng/ml) compared with those without AKI (3.01±0.85 ng/ml; P=0.01). A significant high baseline uL-FABP level in patients with AKI was 168.51±45.98 (P<0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curves of uKIM-1 and uL-FABP levels at the time of admission for prediction of AKI in critically ill patients within the first 7 days of their stay were 0.95 and 0.78, respectively, with a better predictive performance of uKIM-1 than uL-FABP. Conclusion UKIM-1 was a sensitive and specific biomarker (superior to uL-FABP) for the prediction of AKI in critically ill patients.

Spectrum of biopsy-proven kidney diseases at a tertiary care hospital in South India Sanjeev S Manjunath, Chettypunyam S Chetan, Chaandrashekar Manoj, Satish Suchitha, Krishnamurthy K Kiran, Gangadhar Chirag Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):126-129 Introduction The prevalence of kidney diseases, glomerular and tubulointerstitial, varies with the geographical area, socioeconomic conditions of the people, population demographics, race and ethnicity, access to health care, and also the threshold for doing a renal biopsy. Objective The primary objective was to study the prevalence of biopsy-proven kidney diseases presenting to a tertiary care hospital in Mysore, South India. Patients and methods We have retrospectively analyzed the renal biopsy data from 2005 to 2013. The clinical and laboratory data of patients were collected from biopsy request forms, and histopathology data were recorded. Biopsy specimens were examined by light and immunofluorescence microscopy. As a hospital policy, all biopsies were based on definite indications. A total of 1113 biopsies were considered. Transplant biopsies and those with inadequate specimen were excluded. Results A total of 914 patients had some kind of glomerulopathy. Minimal change disease (n=182/1113) was the commonest histological type among glomerular diseases, followed in order by postinfectious glomerulonephritis, focal segmental glomerular sclerosis, membranous glomerulopathy, and immunoglobulin A nephropathy. Among the secondary glomerular diseases, the commonest was diabetic nephropathy (n=72) followed by lupus nephritis (n= 58) and crescentic glomerulonephritis. Most common indication for renal biopsy was nephrotic syndrome (n=274/1113), chronic kidney disease (n=141), acute glomerulonephritis (n=107), acute kidney injury with unclear etiology or delayed recovery, and rapidly progressive glomerulonephritis. Conclusion Nephrotic syndrome was the commonest indication for renal biopsy, and minimal change nephrotic syndrome (MCNS) was the most common glomerular disease followed by focal segmental glomerular sclerosis. Membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis, the incidence of which has decreased in the developed world, still accounts for a significant number in our population. There is a need for electronic data monitoring in India with nationwide integration for a proper analysis of the changing trends of diseases occurring over an extended time frame.

Cognitive disorders in chronic kidney disease and hemodialysis patients Ahmed S El Belbessi, Iman E El Gohary, Hesham A Sheshtawi, Mona M Abdulmoneim Mohamed Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):130-136 Introduction Cognitive impairment (CI) is common in individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and among those treated with hemodialysis (HD). It may jeopardize treatment adherence by affecting the efficiency of every-day tasks, including correct medication and dietary rules. The severity of CKD is associated with the severity of CI, independent of age, education, and other key confounders. It is important to identify those patients with CI to reduce the considerable morbidity associated with this condition and improve their quality of life. Objectives The aim of the present study is to assess cognitive functions in patients with chronic renal diseases and patients on regular HD and to identify CI in these patients. Patients and methods A total of 30 patients with CKD were recruited from the outpatient clinic of Alamerya General Hospital (group I), and 30 HD patients were enrolled in the dialysis unit of the Alamerya General Hospital (group II). Moreover, 30 sex-matched and age-matched patients were recruited as controls (group III). Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Depression Anxiety Stress scale-21 were used as cognitive and neurological tests. Result The mean executive functions score was significantly lower in group II (2.37±0.67) in comparison with group I (3.33±0.48), with a P value less than 0.001, and it is also significantly lower in groups I and II in comparison with the control group (3.90±0.31), with a P value of 0.002 and less than 0.001, respectively. The mean attention score was significantly lower in group I (4.20±0.81) and group II (4.23±0.94) in comparison with the control group (5.27±0.69), with a P value of less than 0.001. The mean memory score was significantly lower in group I (3.10±0.40) and group II (2.57±0.90) in comparison with the control group (4.47±0.73), with a P value of less than 0.001. The mean total MoCA test score was significantly lower in group II (22.87±1.68) in comparison with group I (24.27±1.26), with a P value of less than 0.017, and it is also significantly lower in groups I and II in comparison with the control group (28.33±1.47), with a P value of less than 0.001. Conclusion Impaired renal function affects total MoCA score in the studied groups.

A study of comparison of clinical assessment of substituted frailty versus performance-based frailty in patients on maintenance hemodialysis program funded by cashless government scheme Priyadarshini John, Manjusha Yadla, Sailaja Singiri Journal of The Egyptian Society of Nephrology and Transplantation 2018 18(4):137-143 Introduction Frailty is common in patients on maintenance dialysis.The common methods used to assess Frailty include questionnaires,Frailty index.SF-36 is a commonly used questionnaire to assess quality of life.SF-36 in modified version may be used as substituted Frailty index.Whether Frailty can be assessed with the substituted frailty index is not clear. We tried to compare the two methods of assessment of Frailty with Performance based Frailty and Substituted Frailty to analyse the better index of assessment in patients on maintenance dialysis. Aim The aims were to compare frailty using two different methods of assessment in patients on maintenance hemodialysis and to determine the utility of substituted frailty as screening tool for assessment of frailty. Patients and methods We studied frailty in patients on maintenance hemodialysis using two different methods of assessment. Fried frailty index is performance based and is inconvenient to assess in every patient. In a search to find an alternative, we came across another method of evaluation using physical function (PF) component in SF-36 score. We studied quality of life in these patients using SF-36 questionnaire. PF in SF-36 scale was used as a substitute for gait speed and grip strength, which are the components in the original frailty index. The other components like unintentional weight loss, physical inactivity and physical exertion were the same in both the methods of assessment. Substituted frailty (Fsubs)=PF score on SF-36, unintentional weight loss greater than 4.5 kg, physical exhaustion, and physical inactivity. Performance-based frailty/measured frailty (Fmeas)=weight loss greater than 4.5 kg, physical exhaustion, low physical activity, handgrip strength assessment, and gait speed. Results A total of 117 (78%) patients reported frailty based on self-assessment (substituted frailty, Fsubs) and 136 (90.6%) patients had frailty on performance-based frailty index using Fried frailty index (Fmeas). Overall, 28 (18.6%) patients had performance-based frailty only and did not report the symptoms suggestive of frailty. Age and sex were not significantly different among the groups. In our study, we observed the sensitivity of Fsubs (substituted frailty) was 79.5%, specificity was 35.7%, and accuracy was 75.3%. Positive predictive value of Fsubs was 92.30% and negative predictive value was 15.15%. Conclusion Substituted frailty may be a useful screening modality to identify frailty in patients on maintenance hemodialysis.