Pak J Med Sci
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Although computer technologies are now widely used in medicine, little is known about its use among medical students in Iran. The aim of this study was to determine the competence and access to computer and internet among the medical students. ⋯ Because of the wide range of computer skills and internet information among medical students in our institution, a single computer and internet course for all students would not be useful nor would it be accepted.
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The prevalence of diabetes and its related complications are increasing, and a considerable portion of healthcare expenditures is spent worldwide on diabetes and its complications. In this study, we investigated the estimated treatment costs of diabetic foot ulcers in a tertiary hospital in Turkey. ⋯ The estimated cost of treatment of diabetic foot ulcers is high in Turkey. It will continue to be a heavy economic burden if preventive measures are not taken.
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Lower respiratory tract infection is one of the most important causes of morbidity and mortality. However establishing a microbial diagnosis for patients with lower respiratory tract infection is still challenging and is often achieved in only half of cases by conventional methods. This study was designed to compare the fast responsive PCR method with the culture method in lower respiratory tract infections and to evaluate the reliability of multiplex PCR method. ⋯ Conventional methods, such as culture and serology are not always adequate to detect the pathogens in lower respiratory tract. Real-time PCR assays proved highly sensitive and rapid. The prevalence of bacteria and multiple agent detected by real-time PCR compared with culture was substantially higher. Widespread use of PCR methods, by providing the immediate and appropriate ''agent specific antibiotic treatment'' of LRTI, will help reduce failure and contributes to a reduction in antibiotic resistance.
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We aimed to evaluate ductus venosus Doppler waveforms before and after amniocentesis in order to investigate any effect of amniocentesis on fetal myocardial hemodynamics. We also evaluated the umbilical artery, uterine artery and fetal mid-cerebral artery Doppler waveforms in order to investigate any relationship with ductus venosus Doppler changes. ⋯ Amniocentesis-whether transplacental or not- does not cause any significant effect on fetal myocardial hemodynamics.
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To assess the efficacy of Methotrexate in patients with plaque type psoriasis. ⋯ Treatment with methotrexate for chronic plaque psoriasis brings satisfactory disease control and improved quality of life.