Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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We hypothesized the existence of distinct phenotype-based groups within the very heterogeneous population of patients of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) and using an unsupervised hierarchical clustering applied to plasma concentration of various biomarkers. We sought to characterize them as "biomarker phenotypes" and to conclude differences in their overall characteristics. ⋯ Unsupervised hierarchical clustering applied to plasma concentration of various biomarkers in patients with HFpEF enables the identification of two biomarker phenotypes, significantly different in clinical characteristics and cardiac structure and function, whereas one phenotype particularly relates to patients with reduced ejection fraction. These findings imply distinct underlying pathophysiology within a unique cohort of HFpEF.
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The purpose of this systematic review is to assess clinical and radiographic outcomes, complications rates, rates and reasons of re-revision of isolated femoral or tibial component revisions, comparing them with total knee revisions. ⋯ The poor quality of the studies precluded sound conclusions. Isolated tibial or femoral component revision is an option when the other component is well-fixed and positioned and in absence of chronic periprosthetic infection; nevertheless, it should be carefully evaluated when the reasons for revision are wear or instability.
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The aim of this study was to investigate ocular surface, intraocular pressure and lens condition in bronchodilator- and steroid-treated chronic pulmonary disease patients. ⋯ Nebulizer delivery of steroids is associated with dry eye and cataracts. Smoking, ageing, and long-term inhaled steroid use have all been linked to an increased risk of cataracts. Longitudinal and larger sample size studies are needed to explore cause-effect relationships.
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Suicide is a significant public health issue and a major cause of death in all ages worldwide. Previous studies have shown the involvement of genetics in suicidal behaviour. This study aimed to assess the role of the genetic variants of the serotonin transporter genes (5HTTLPR, SLC6A4 intron 2) and receptor gene (5HTR2AT102C) in individuals who died of suicide. The study compares the serum levels of serotonin between the cases and controls. ⋯ The findings of this study suggest that low serum levels of serotonin and two variants of the serotonin gene may influence suicide behaviour in a south Indian population.
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This retrospective study reports the effects of COVID-19 among hospitalized pregnant women infected with COVID-19 and compares them to a control group. ⋯ This study was conducted to identify the effects of COVID-19 in pregnancy. Most patients were asymptomatic. The rate of normal vaginal delivery was higher in the control group. The main indications for Cesarean section in the COVID-19 group were obstetrical and maternal complications compared to fetal complications in the control group. .