Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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The aim of this report is to describe a case of atrial fibrillation and shock precipitated by deliberate self-poisoning with theophylline. ⋯ This case highlights the importance of identifying a comprehensive medication history using all available sources of information as early as possible in an emergency department presentation.
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Rare variants in the TREM2 gene have been reported to significantly increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease in Caucasian populations. Hitherto, this association was not studied in North African populations. In this work, we aimed to study the association between TREM2 exon 2 variants and the risk of late-onset Alzheimer's disease (LOAD) in a Tunisian population. ⋯ These findings do not support a major role for TREM2 in the pathogenesis of LOAD in the Tunisian population.
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Comparative Study
A Retrospective Analysis of Dialysis Events over a 3-Year Period in an Outpatient Dialysis Unit in the State of Kuwait.
To determine the difference in the rates of dialysis events stratified by vascular access type and to describe the microbiological profile and sensitivity patterns of positive blood cultures over a 3-year period. ⋯ Dialysis event rates were higher among patients with tunneled or nontunneled central lines than in patients with fistula or graft. Gram-negative rods were the most commonly isolated microbial group.
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Case Reports
Focal Encephalitis, Meningitis, and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Associated with Influenza A Infection.
To present a case of influenza A infection complicated with focal encephalitis, meningitis, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. ⋯ This case report highlights focal encephalitis with concomitant pulmonary complications after influenza A infection.
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Comparative Study
Physical Activity and Cognitive Function among Older Adults with an Elevated Gamma Gap.
An elevated gamma gap is indicative of high serum concentrations of globulin proteins, some of which elicit acute inflammatory responses. An impaired cognitive function has been linked to central and peripheral inflammation, while exercise is associated with protective, anti-inflammatory benefits. In this study, we evaluated whether the gamma gap is associated with cognitive function among older adults and whether physical activity is favorably associated with cognitive function among those with an elevated gamma gap. ⋯ In this national sample of older adults, the gamma gap was associated with cognitive function, and among those with an elevated gamma gap, meeting the physical activity guidelines was associated with a higher cognitive function. Relevant clinical implications are discussed, as the gamma gap may be predictive of the risk for early mortality and reduced quality of life. Experimental work is needed to investigate whether physical activity training programs are effective in reducing an elevated gamma gap and preserving optimal cognitive functioning among at-risk individuals.