Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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The recent outbreak of COVID-19 limited the resources of the National Health System necessitating the formulation of novel practice recommendations for oncological care. To date, management guidelines for cancer patients in case of pandemic are not available. Each center tried to manage its own needs and requests independently, often reducing access to treatment and diagnostic exams to patients. Here, we have described the management of cancer patients during COVID-19 infection with suggestions of some practical approaches applied by our Regional Center for Oncological Orientation (COrO) in S.G. Moscati Hospital (Taranto, Italy). ⋯ We have overcome barriers to care of oncology patients leading to a reduction of waiting lists representing a practical application model that can be extended to other healthcare settings.
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The occurrence of right ventricular (RV) dysfunction in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) results in an increased risk of mortality. We aimed to study the diagnostic value of RS time in the recognition of COPD patients with RV dysfunction. ⋯ In patients with COPD, RS time prolongation, which can be easily and quickly determined from the electrocardiogram, may be a marker for RV dysfunction.
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Neuroblastoma is a common fatal tumor of childhood. Natural killer (NK) cells can exert direct cytotoxicity on tumor cells. The killer immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) family of NK cell receptors is involved in activation/inhibition of NK cells. In the KIR gene cluster, six of them (3DS1, 2DS1-5) encode receptors triggering activation, while seven of them (3DL1-3, 2DL1-3, 2DL5) encode receptors triggering inhibition. We aimed to assess the distribution of genetic polymorphisms of KIRs on the clinical course of neuroblastoma and provide guidance on potential therapeutic options. ⋯ Our data suggest a role for KIR2DS3 and KIR2DL3 in development of neuroblastoma. Thus, modulation of KIR2SD3 and/or KIR2DL3 expression or function might present a novel therapeutic strategy for neuroblastoma.
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Extrahepatic portal vein thrombosis (EHPVT) is a common cause of portal hypertension in children. The aim of the present study was to identify the clinical manifestations and the risk factors for development of EHPVT in pediatric patients. ⋯ Patients with known systemic or local risk factors for EHPVT are indicated for proactive ultrasound screening for early diagnosis and timely management.
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This study aimed to evaluate the effect of solid self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery system (S-SNEDDS) formation on the bioavailability of fenofibric acid. ⋯ S-SNEDDS increased the dissolution rate in acid medium and absorption rate of fenofibric acid but did not increase the extent of fenofibric acid absorption.