Pak J Med Sci
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Fabry disease (FD) is a relatively rare X-linked hereditary disease caused by mutations in the GLA gene that results in deficient α-galactosidase A (α-Gal A) enzyme activity. The disturbed catabolism of the neutral sphingolipids globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) leads to its progressive lysosomal accumulation throughout the body. Multiple organs can be affected. ⋯ The true burden of FD in Central and some South Asian countries is unknown. Lack of research studies and awareness, and misdiagnosis/underdiagnosis may be the reasons. Some possible explanations as well suggestions for a structured Fabry care and research possibilities in these WHO regions are offered.
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To gain insights into the e-mentoring experience, needs of the stakeholders (mentors and mentees) challenges and strategies to overcome the challenges. ⋯ Online mentoring can help students feel less lonely through social contact. E-mentoring provides flexibility to those who would usually deal with discrimination to being mentored because of their gender, ethnicity, disability or geographical location.
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Evidence has shown the innumerable benefits of prenatal physical activity practice; therefore, the knowledge pregnant women have, and efforts to sustain the knowledge and encourage them to engage in prenatal physical activity, are desirable. The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and attitudes concerning prenatal physical activity of pregnant women attending primary health antenatal care clinics. ⋯ The women had high knowledge of prenatal physical activity, and relatively positive attitudes toward prenatal physical activity. The feeling of tiredness, lack of motivation and inadequate information on physical activity constituted negative attitudes towards physical activity. There is need to provide education and advocacy in the clinical settings; also, interventions to encourage and promote prenatal physical activity in the community and at home are desirable to address the weaknesses identified in this study regarding the women's knowledge and attitudes concerning prenatal physical activity.
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Staphylococcal biofilms cause a wide range of acute and chronic infections, both in hospital and community settings across the world. This study explores biofilm forming propensity among Staphylococcus aureus clinical isolates from Faisalabad, Pakistan and their association with antimicrobial drug resistance. ⋯ Our findings indicate that the ability to produce large amount of biofilm is an important factor, and S. aureus isolates with this ability, do not require acquisition of drug resistance genes from other bacteria. Our study also provides a guideline for selection of antimicrobials which are not adversely affected by level of biofilm production by various strains of S. aureus.
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To compare the levels of glycated albumin and angiopoietin-2 in Type-Two diabetics with and without diabetic retinopathy. ⋯ Our study reported raised levels of glycated albumin (percent) and angiopoietin-2 in type-two diabetics, highlighting their possible involvement in disease and its progression.