Pak J Med Sci
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Understanding the epidemiology of upper gastrointestinal cancers in Pakistan may help in identifying important demographic risk factors for upper gastrointestinal malignancies in a particular rural population group. This will benefit in implementing tailored prevention approaches as well as effective management of health services. ⋯ The average age of patients undergoing upper gastrointestinal endoscopy among rural community of Karachi was relatively low. The burden of upper GI malignancies was significantly higher among elderly. Male patients had significantly greater burden of premalignant and malignant lesions as compared to females. No differences in the distribution of diagnostic outcomes were observed on the basis of ethnicity.
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Emotional distress experienced by patients with diabetes (PWD) can affect glycemic control and quality of life. However, limited tools are available in Indonesia to detect emotional distress in PWD in clinical setting or research. This study aimed to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Indonesia version of the Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID-5) scale. ⋯ The results of the study indicate that PAID-5 is considered valid and reliable to assess emotional distress among PWD and can be useful in clinical setting or for research purposes. Continued assessment of emotional distress is applicable and helps patients to better deal with their emotional distress.
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To determine the sensitivity of ACR-TIRADS scoring by comparing its results with those obtained on biopsy of respective specimens. ⋯ The Ultrasonographic ACR-TIRADS scoring and risk stratification system is highly sensitive for detecting malignancy in thyroid nodules. It is, therefore, a reliable technique in the initial assessment of thyroid nodules and decisions can safely be based on its results. In cases of doubt, clinical judgment should be exercised before making final decision.
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To investigate the effects of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) and central venous catheters (CVCs) on the left ventricular function (LVF) and prognosis of maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) patients. ⋯ Both AVF and CVC can achieve appropriate dialysis effects in MHD patients. AVF has a negative impact on cardiac function while CVC has a high hospitalization rate.
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This study aimed to observe the diagnostic value of cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in patients with vascular dementia induced by ischemic stroke. ⋯ Patients with vascular dementia induced by ischemic stroke are characterized by cortical atrophy, widening of the cerebral sulcus, large infarct lesion area and sparse cerebral white matter. Cranial MRI can effectively identify these features. The application of cranial MRI has some clinical values for early treatment and prognostic assessment.