Pakistan BioMedical Journal
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj
<p>Title of Journal: <strong>Pakistan Biomedical Journal (ISSN Online: 2709-2798, Print: 2709-278X)</strong></p> <p>Frequency: <strong>Monthly</strong></p> <p>Affiliated with: <strong>Lahore Medical Research Center</strong></p> <p><strong>Website: (</strong><a href="http://www.lmrc.com.pk">www.lmrc.com.pk</a>)</p> <p>Published By: <strong>CrossLinks International Publishers (CLIP), Lahore, Pakistan</strong></p> <p><strong>Website: (</strong><a href="http://www.clip.com.pk">www.clip.com.pk</a>)</p> <p><strong>Address:</strong> 590-Karim Block, Allama Iqbal Town, Lahore, Pakistan</p> <p><strong>Description:</strong></p> <p><strong>Pakistan BioMedical Journal (PBMJ)</strong> is an Official Journal of "<strong>Lahore Medical Research Center LLP" (LMRC)</strong> and is being funded and supported by Lahore Medical Research Center LLP (LMRC). Pakistan Biomedical Journal (PBMJ) is an open access, peer-reviewed international journal that publishes in all fields of health, allied health and biomedical sciences for an internationally diverse authorship. Clinical studies, clinical trials, population studies, public health, discovery medicine, study of microbes, molecular and cellular biology, basic mechanisms of biology, genetics, cancer biology, molecular medicine, pharmacology, virology, chemical biology, immunobiology, chemical biology, physiological and pathological studies are within the scope of journal.<br />A highly-cited, multi-disciplinary, international editorial board assures timely publication of manuscripts. Reviews on latest advancements in biomedical sciences</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Accreditation:</strong></span></p> <p><strong>Approved by Higher Education Commission of Pakistan for the year 2023-24</strong></p> <p><strong>Fee & Subscription Charges</strong></p> <p>Article Processing Fee: <strong>NONE</strong></p> <p>Article Publication Fee (National) Rs 35000 / Article</p> <p>Article Publication Fee (International ) 200 USD / Article</p> <p>Printed Version ((Selected Articles on Authors Request): Rs 2500/per copy</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Annual Subscription for Printed Versions</strong></span></p> <p>For Institutes: Rs 20,000/ Annually</p> <p>Single Copy (Selected Articles): Rs 2500/-</p> <p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Waiver Policy</strong></span></p> <p>If an author has no funds to pay such charges, he may request for full or partial waiver of publication fees. The decision may however vary from case to case.</p> <p>We do not want charges to prevent the publication of worthy material.</p> <p><strong><u>Submissions</u></strong></p> <p><span style="font-size: 0.875rem;">Submission are welcome and may be submitted here. </span><a style="background-color: #ffffff; font-size: 0.875rem;" href="mailto:submissions@pakistanbmj.com">submissions@pakistanbmj.com</a></p>CrossLinks International Publishersen-USPakistan BioMedical Journal2709-278X<p>This is an open-access journal and all the published articles / items are distributed under the terms of the <a href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/">Creative Commons Attribution License</a>, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original author and source are credited. For comments <a href="mailto:editor@pakistanbmj.com">editor@pakistanbmj.com</a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p> </p>Quality Assurance in Safe Handling of Hazardous Drugs Among Healthcare Workers in KSA: A Scoping Review
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1006
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0">Healthcare providers are potentially at risk from occupational exposure to drugs. Safe handling accreditation criteria from international occupational safety organizations and associations minimize long-term medication exposure harm. The purpose of this review was to examine healthcare workers' quality assurance in the safe handling of hazardous drugs. This topic underwent a scoping review of the literature to </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0">determine</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0"> what was known about exposure and to spot any knowledge gaps using a variety of electronic databases such as Medline, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for the literature search. English-language articles that were published between 1997 and 2022 were included. This review included 26 full-text papers in total. The designs, sample sizes, sample collection durations, and medicines studied differed between the investigations. Numerous studies discovered that at least one sample had measurable quantities of a hazardous substance. The studies examined that hazardous drugs are handled in many </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0">different stages</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0"> throughout the healthcare industry, including production, transportation, storage, preparation for patients, and waste disposal after treatment. Healthcare personnel are constantly exposed to HDs. The findings emphasize the need to </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0">establish</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0"> robust regulations, boost training programs, upgrade personal protective equipment, enhance handling techniques, and strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems. More research is </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0">required</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW260693228 BCX0"> to fill up the gaps and safeguard the safety and health of Saudi Arabia's healthcare professionals who handle hazardous medications.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW260693228 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"335551550":6,"335551620":6}"> </span></p>Sajjan Iqbal MemonSundas Shahbaz KhanZarqa SharifSaadia YounusUmair Ismail Manghrio
Copyright (c) 2024 Pakistan BioMedical Journal
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2024-02-292024-02-29566210.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1006Effects of Standing Board on Antigravity Muscles in Children with Cerebral Palsy Aging between 3 to 10 Years; A Multi-Centered Randomized Control Trial
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1033
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">Cerebral palsy is one of the most common conditions contributing to childhood motor disability. It is usually categorized by a diverse range of gait abnormalities making ambulation very challenging. Standing board/frame has been a widely used physical therapy intervention practiced globally. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">Objective:</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">T</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">o evaluate the effect of a standing board on the antigravity muscles among cerebral palsy children aged between 3 to 10 years.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">Methods:</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">A 6-months experimental study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan on children suffering from cerebral palsy. They were assessed for weight-bearing status, alignment, and range of motion of the child’s hip and knee joints based on varying positions.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">Results:</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">After 6 months of intervention, the ROM and muscle strength grading in groups X and Y remained unchanged. The mean duration of standing with support increased to 20.2 min and 19.3 min and without support to 9.5 min and 6.7 min, respectively.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">Conclusion</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">:</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0" lang="EN" xml:lang="EN" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW92640442 BCX0">The use of a standing board amongst CP children with non-ambulatory status is much more apparent when used daily for at least 45 minutes. It is more effective in correspondence to the alignment of the hip and knee joints.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW92640442 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Aqsa FaizBushra ZamanMubushara AfzalMalik OsamaMustafa Zaveri
Copyright (c) 2024 Pakistan BioMedical Journal
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2024-02-292024-02-29111510.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1033Exploring Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Analysis of Prevalence, Determinants, and Health Impacts in Pakistani Women
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1035
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a common and complicated medical illness suffered by females after menopause. The current study studied its clinical manifestations, etiological factors, and their impact on the quality of life. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">Objective:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> To evaluate the prevalence of GSM in Pakistani women of </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">Rural Health Centre, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW125174726 BCX0">Kangra</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">, District Haripur</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> and the causes associated with the symptoms and play a role in the worsening of disease. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">Methods:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> An observational cross-sectional study </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">was conducted in Rural Health Center, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW125174726 BCX0">Kangra</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">, District Haripur, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, from 1 January 2023 to 30 June 2023, for six months.</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> It involved 202 women aged 35-55 years. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">Results:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> The observations involved the variables, including demographics of patients, clinical parameters associated with GSM and medical comorbidities. Hypertension and diabetes mellitus were identified as the most prevalent diseases in GSM-suffering females. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">Conclusions:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> The variables strongly </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0">impact</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW125174726 BCX0"> women's health and quality of life after menopause. The prevalence of certain comorbidities and their pattern related to GSM shed light on the importance of targeted healthcare strategies and preventive measures for females. </span></span><span class="EOP SCXW125174726 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Ayesha IsmailIqra Bibi
Copyright (c) 2024 Pakistan BioMedical Journal
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2024-02-292024-02-29162010.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1035Patient Satisfaction from Services Provided at Low Vision Clinic in Tertiary Care Hospitals- A Cross-Sectional Study
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1039
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">Patients have always been the main stakeholders in the modern world of medicine.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Objective:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> To assess the level of satisfaction of people with low vision with the provision of low vision services at Hayatabad Medical Complex in Peshawar. Moreover, to compare the satisfaction level of people with low vision </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">concerning</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> the degree of vision im</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">pairment.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Method</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> An interviewer-administered, questionnaire </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">(PSQ-18),</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> was used to collect data from 125 low-vision patients at </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">a low-vision</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> clinic. The survey used Likert's five-point rating scale to measure satisfaction with LV services. The data was analyzed using SPSS</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Results</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">: The results of the study </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">demonstrated</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> that </span><span class="NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">the vast majority of</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> study participants (n = 62</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">, 50</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">%) were </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">delighted</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">with</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> the low vision care they received, followed by thirty-eight (30.4%) participants who remained satisfied, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">whereas</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> twelve (9.6%) patients were dissatisfied. Male participants were more likely to be satisfied (94%) than female participants (63%). Amongst the total study participants, the proportion of participants with moderate vision impairment was </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title">approximately doubled</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Title"> as compared to those with severe vision impairment.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">Conclusion</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong"> The study found that moderate vision impairment participants were more satisfied than those with severe impairment, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong">indicating</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-charstyle="Strong"> an inverse relationship between satisfaction and the degree of vision impairment. 99% of participants were satisfied with the technical quality of the services provided.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW126184554 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Adnan AfsarMuhammad Iftikhar KhattakNasrullah KhanFaisal RashidMuhammad Imshad KhanKomal Yaseen
Copyright (c) 2024 Pakistan BioMedical Journal
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2024-02-292024-02-29212510.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1039Assessment of Perceived Social Support among People Living with HIV/AIDS in Lahore
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1041
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">HIV/AIDS</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> cases are on rise in Pakistan at one of the fastest rates in Asia. People living with HIV/AIDS</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> face </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">numerous</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> problems directly affecting the treatment outcome along with other aspects of their lives. One such factor is social support which directly affects the quality of life and treatment outcome of people living with HIV/AIDS.</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> Objective:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">T</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">o explore the perceived social support available in people living with HIV/AIDS. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">Method</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> This cross-sectional research studied 300 individuals living with HIV/AIDS and seeking treatment from </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">Antiretroviral therapy (</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">ART</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">) </span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW42492173 BCX0">centres</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> of Punjab Aids Control Prog</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">ram in Lahore. The participants were selected through nonprobability purposive sampling technique from the Punjab Aids Control Program treatment centers and included males (77%), females (17 %) and transgenders (5 %). Social support was measured through Mu</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">ltidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) Urdu version.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">Results:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">P</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">articipants scored highest on family social support and lowest on </span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW42492173 BCX0">friends</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> social support from subscale. The scores on social support taken from three main sources </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">indicate</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> the</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> medium levels and composite score reveal </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">high levels</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> of social support. Family and </span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW42492173 BCX0">friends</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> subscales show significant variations in scores across gender. Income and employment status revealed the same pattern of association with all types of social suppor</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">t</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">. H</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">owever, age, gender, marital </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">status</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> and family style showed varying pattern of association. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">Conclusion</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> Findings provided insights into perceived social support of people living with HIV/AIDS in Lahore </span><span class="NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW42492173 BCX0">and also</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">identified</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0"> a set of factors associated w</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">ith social support</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW42492173 BCX0">. </span></span><span class="EOP SCXW42492173 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"335551550":6,"335551620":6}"> </span></p>Mansoor AhmadAbia NazimFaiza Athar
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2024-02-292024-02-29263110.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1041A Comparison of the Protective Effect of Pyridoxine and N-Acetylcysteine in Paracetamol Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1045
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1" data-ccp-parastyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"b0a83a8b-627d-4ffe-ba44-cb82865739f8|58","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"Normal1",201340122,"2",134233614,"true",469778129,"Normal1",335572020,"1",469777841,"Calibri",469777842,"Calibri",469777843,"Calibri",469777844,"Calibri",469769226,"Calibri",335559740,"259",201341983,"0",335559739,"160"]}">Paracetamol is a common over the counter drug. Paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity results in over 300,000 hospitalizations each year and accounts for up to 42% of all cases of acute liver failure. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a potential antidote to manage paracetamol toxicity. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">Objective: </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">To investigate the effects of pyridoxine, alone and in combination with NAC in repairing paracetamol-induced liver damage in male Wister rats. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">Methods: </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">A single oral dose of paracetamol (650 mg/kg) was administered to Wistar rats to induce hepatotoxicity. The hepato-protective effects of NAC at a dose 300 mg/kg, and pyridoxine (200 mg/kg) were evaluated using standard liver function tests and histopathological along with serum glutathione levels. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">Results: </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">The administration of pyridoxine and NAC resulted in a significant decrease in AST, ALT, and total bilirubin levels and the reversal of histopathological changes. Conversely, administering NAC and pyridoxine in combination yielded significant changes except for the glutathione level. </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">Conclusions: </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW20436370 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">The study concluded that pyridoxine may be used as a potential hepatoprotective drug in paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-parastyle="Normal1">In combination with NAC, it showed protective effects in paracetamol-induced hepatoxicity.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW20436370 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Ghazala BibiArooj JavedHira SiyarHaji Bahadar
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2024-02-292024-02-29323910.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1045Clinical Assessment and Demographic Insights of Lactose Intolerance Among Diarrheal Children at Hyderabad, Pakistan
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1030
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">Lactose intolerance is common among diarrheal children due to compromised gut health. Diarrhea can damage the intestinal lining, reducing lactase enzyme production responsible for lactose digestion. Consequently, lactose, a sugar found in dairy products, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">remains</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> undigested, leading to abdominal discomfort, bloating, and increased bowel movements</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">Objective:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> To assess the clinical characteristics of Lactose intolerance (LI) as well as its relationship with demographic factors among diarrheal children below five years of age</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">Methods:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> A cross sectional study was conducted enrolling </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">50 diarrheal patients in equal proportion by gender. The present study was conducted over children suffering from profuse diarrhea admitted to the </span><span class="NormalTextRun ContextualSpellingAndGrammarErrorV2Themed SCXW139820651 BCX0">Pediatrics</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> ward at LUMHS and CIVIL hospital Hyderabad, Pakistan during July 2018 to January 2019.</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">The questionnaire-based analysis was conducted to gather information </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">regarding</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> dietary index and manifestation of symptoms after milk consumption. Clinical analysis was performed using lactose tolerance test, Stool pH and reducing </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">substance</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> respectively. The obtained results were analyzed using SPSS.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">Results:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> 20 children were found to be suffering from lactose intolerance. The clinical symptoms </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">observed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> among individuals affected by LI included loose motion, weight loss, abdominal distention, and the presence of pus cells in stool </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">indicating</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> the signs of infection. T-test showed statistical significance (</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">p-</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">value ˂ 0.05) over physical attributes such as height and number of pus cells among LI patients as compared to lactose tolerant (LT) patients. The finding of pus cells in the stool simultaneous to the strong statistical correlation between relieve in symptoms with increasing age also affirmed the existence of secondary type hypo-</span><span class="NormalTextRun SpellingErrorV2Themed SCXW139820651 BCX0">lactasia</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">. The study also highlighted the demographic aspects contributing to the prevalence of the condition.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">Conclusion</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW139820651 BCX0"> Secondary lactose intolerance was found with shortened heights of patients and increased number of pus cells in stool.</span></span></p>Muhammad YousufBeenish KhanzadaMahvish Jabeen ChannaAutif Hussain MangiFahim Ullah Khan
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2024-02-292024-02-29404410.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1030Public Awareness and Behavioral Patterns During Smog
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1043
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Smog is also an alarming signal for health problems in Pakistan especially in the city Lahore. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Objective: </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">T</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">o find out how the </span><span class="NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW145550084 BCX0">general public</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0"> feels about smog. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Method</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">The study was conducted b</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">y surveying Lahore residents who drive. This was a survey-based study which included 100 subjects using any vehicle as a mode of transportation.</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Results</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">: </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Generally, 2%</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0"> people used cycle, motorbike 62%, car 13% and public transport 23% but during smog people shifted from bike to public transport and rate of car users were also increased from 13% to 25%. </span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">In this survey, 58% of the people came to know about smog through TV channels. Most of the respondents had the symptoms of chest tightness, eye irritation, breathing difficulty. This study revealed that 85% of vehicle users took preventive measures such as kept themselves hydrated (</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">18%</span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">), worn mask (58%) and driven less (</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">9%</span></span><span class="TextRun Highlight SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">); which kept them away from hospitals during smog.</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Conclusion</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">s</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">:</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0"> It was </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">anticipated</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0"> that motor bike, car and public transport users had more knowledge about the causes of smog but none of cycle user was aware that sul</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">f</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">ur and nitrogen compounds were the cause of smog (p<0.001). Thus, </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW145550084 BCX0">Pakistan needs to implement future countermeasures for smog.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW145550084 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Nageen HussainBushra Nisar KhanAmina BashirRana Mohsin AliMuhammad Talha MukhtarEman Afzal Awan
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2024-02-292024-02-29455010.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1043Mean Satisfaction Scores in Patients Wearing Removable Dental Prosthesis According to Oral Health Index Profile-14
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1060
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Removable dental prosthetics, also known </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">dentures</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">are used to restore function, appearance, and phonation after tooth loss.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> However, </span><span class="NormalTextRun AdvancedProofingIssueV2Themed SCXW93043107 BCX0">the majority of</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> people who wear dentures are not </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">satisfied</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> with them.</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Objective</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">: To assess the mean fulfillment score of patients </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">utilizing</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> removable denture prosthesis as per oral health index record profile-14 (OHIP-14)</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">.</span> </span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Methods</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">:</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">A </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">cross-sectional descriptive study</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> was</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">conducted at the</span></span> <span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Department of Prosthodontics, Bacha Khan Medical College, Mardan from </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">5</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun Superscript SCXW93043107 BCX0" data-fontsize="10">th </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">November 2020 to 25</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun Superscript SCXW93043107 BCX0" data-fontsize="10">th</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> May 2021. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">A </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">total</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> of 272 participants of both gender with ages between 20 to 70 years, wearing acrylic removable partial denture in or the two arches for something like one year, and </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">had</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> no indications of pathology in leftover teeth were enrolled in this study. OHIP-14 examiner was </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">utilized</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> to gauge the factors of fulfillment with removable dental prosthesis. OHIP-14 scores were stratified among age groups and gender to see effect modifiers. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">The data </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">were</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> analyzed using SPSS</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> 26.0</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Results</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">: The mean age of the participants in the study was. 53.28±10.997 years. The mean OHIP-score was 23.63±7.095. The mean OHIP-score in males was 23.34±6.641 and in females was 23.91±7.523. The difference in OHIP-14 score was not statistically significant (p=0.51). The highest mean OHIP-14 score was present in age group 20-30 years (25.20±5.673) followed by age group 61-70 years (24.27±7.290). The lowest OHIP-14 score was in age group 22.57±6.448 years. </span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">Conclusions</span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">: The average OHIP-14 score is lower, which further </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">indicates</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> reduced satisfaction with removable partial dentures. Age and gender had </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0">little impact</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW93043107 BCX0"> on how satisfied people were with removable partial dentures.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW93043107 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240,"335572071":0,"335572072":0,"335572073":0,"335572075":0,"335572076":0,"335572077":0,"335572079":0,"335572080":0,"335572081":0,"335572083":0,"335572084":0,"335572085":0,"335572087":0,"335572088":0,"335572089":0,"469789798":"nil","469789802":"nil","469789806":"nil","469789810":"nil","469789814":"nil"}"> </span></p>Aamna MansurHanzala WaqarHanif UllahAamir SyedHaseeb UllahSami Ullah
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2024-02-292024-02-29515510.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1060Risk Factors Associated with Cardiovascular Disorders
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1034
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0">Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0">constitute</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0"> the primary cause of mortality worldwide. 32% of all fatalities globally in 2019 were attributed to CVDs, with an estimated 17.9 million deaths. Heart attacks and strokes were the significant cause of 85% of these fatalities. More than 75% of fatalities from CVD occur in low- and middle-income nations. In 2019, non-communicable illnesses accounted for 17 million premature fatalities (deaths under 70 years of age) of which 38% were attributable to CVDs. An increased risk of </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0">acquiring</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0"> high blood pressure (hypertension), high cholesterol, and Type 2 diabetes can also be attributed to a family history of these disorders. These conditions can also raise an individual's risk of cardiovascular disease. By addressing behavioral risk factors such as tobacco use, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0">bad food</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW256163174 BCX0"> and obesity, physical inactivity, and problematic alcohol consumption, most cardiovascular illnesses may be averted. Early detection of cardiovascular illness is crucial for the commencement of medication and counseling-based therapy.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW256163174 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{"134233279":true,"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Muhammad Mudasser HussainUzma RafiAdnan ImranMujeeb Ur RehmanSyed Khurram Abbas
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2024-02-292024-02-29031010.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1034Brain-Computer Interface: The Construction of Artificial Highways
https://www.pakistanbmj.com/journal/index.php/pbmj/article/view/1037
<p><span data-contrast="auto">One of the nifty advent of technology in terms of neurobionics is the Brain-Computer Interface (BCI). It will be no wrong to regard its principle somewhat likely to a real-time chip robot that deciphers human impulses, traversing on the nerve highways, into commands that modulate human actions which have been rendered paradoxical due to any physical or congenital nervous injuries. BCI technology has empowered the disabled, enabling them to operate cursors and smart home devices using their minds. The famous NeuraLink is emerging to be an advocate of the latest BCI technology, having performed a new brain implant successfully; but deep research puts forward the name of Synchron as an instigator of BCI industry. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">A tailed-electrode, with sixteen electric arrays, is pushed up-stream near to the brain’s motor cortex region via a small incision made in the jugular vein [1]. Upon reaching the destination it tubes out against the interior wall of the blood vessel, functioning as an antenna to detect the tissues’ electrical activity of the proximal cortex region such as moving a leg or scrolling through a screen. These signals are demodulated into muscle-translatable commands by a transmitter fitted in the chest, that disseminates the waves to an external digital device which performs the specified actions through a connected effector device. Primeval BCIs incorporated a mesh of protruding wires. Trials are underway to replace it with a home-based BCI setup. For now, fifty severely paralyzed people, including brain-stem stroke patients, have received these stents with a few Australians and Americans roaming around freely with implants in their blood vessels as part of BCI contemporary testing. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Despite such bamboozling invention by Synchron, it has its limitations owing to the inferiority of brain signals espied across the curtains of membranes in way. A Synchron user can only scroll through the web pages. NeuraLink enters the competition by offering a 1024 electrodes’ matrix of ultrathin conducting bio-friendly fibers, integrated onto 1 centimeter’s cube film that can be inserted by a robot [1]. In January 2024 the first brain-film implant was performed on a brain-disabled patient which is showing signs of recovery. BCI current research revolves around inculcating the electrode bearing agent(s) directly into the brain regions without invasive procedures, which will be a breakthrough in neurosciences of the current era. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">Despite of its unprecedented utility, the BCI system also opens the gate for controversial scrutiny. For instance, there might be an undesired compulsion on BCI industry to escalate the amplitudes of cognition, memory, motor functions, and intellect even of normal individuals. Peculiarities like infrared vision and memory augmentation pose a danger towards informed consent and privacy. An environment of disparity, ascribable to the unequal approach of the interface, may be created that will lead to socio-political issues of genocide [2]. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></p> <p><span data-contrast="auto">The anatomy of the human brain has this inherent tendency to reject any foreign agent playing with its natural traffic, thus for how long these electrodes can co-exist normally with human biology is a debate not yet started. In research a robot sensitive to empathy was generated and named ‘cobot’. With the use of an electroencephalographic (EEG) sensor worn by the human agent, its BCI was built. The cobot responds to the threat and passes it on to the recipient human agent, creating a virtuous cycle of caring and security. Consequently, when the patient was exposed to unsettling motion, an increase in the EEG signal was recorded [3]. The brain-computer interface fails to stamp out the placebo effect associated with the recovery. Is it really the chip or the unwavering willingness of the human mind to adapt and thrive ?</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335551550":6,"335551620":6,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>Ahmed Alwazzan
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2024-02-292024-02-29010210.54393/pbmj.v7i02.1037