Significant Higher Prevalence Research Articles

Application of compound poisson model to estimate underreported risk of non-communicable diseases in underdeveloped areas

BackgroundHypertension and diabetes are major components of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a substantial number of patients residing in underdeveloped areas. Limited medical resources in these areas often results in underreporting of disease prevalence, masking the true extent of diseases. Taking the underdeveloped Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture in China as an example, this study aimed to correct the underreported prevalence of hypertension and type 2 diabetes so as to provide inspiration for the allocation of medical resources in such areas. MethodsAssuming the true number of patients in each area follows a Poisson distribution, we applied a Compound Poisson Model based on Clustering of Data Quality (CPM-CDQ) to estimate the potential true prevalence of hypertension and diabetes, as well as the registration rate of existing patients. Specifically, a hierarchical clustering approach was utilized to group the counties based on the data quality, and then the registration rate of the cluster with the best data quality was used as a priori information for the model. The model parameters were estimated by the maximum likelihood method. Sensitivity analyses were performed to test the robustness of the model. ResultsThe estimated prevalence of hypertension in the entire Liangshan Prefecture from 2018 to 2020 ranged from 24.59 % to 25.28 %, and for diabetes, it ranged from 4.95 % to 8.42 %. The registration rates for hypertension and diabetes were 14.10 % to 24.59 % and 15.98 % to 29.12 %, respectively. Additionally, the accuracy of clustering the counties with the best data quality had a significant impact on the performance of the model. ConclusionLiangshan Prefecture is experiencing a significant high prevalence of hypertension and diabetes, accompanied by a concerningly low registration rate. The CPM-CDQ proved useful for assessing underreporting risks and facilitating targeted interventions for NCDs control and prevention, particularly in underdeveloped areas.

A Comparative Evaluation of Removable Partial Denture Prostheses and Dental Caries Status among Diabetic and Nondiabetic Patients

Abstract Introduction Oral health is an integral part of general health. Systemic diseases such as diabetic condition and local factors have an impact on oral health of individuals. Dental caries is one of the most common oral health conditions affecting 60 to 90% of the population. Acrylic removable partial denture (RPD) is one of the most widely accepted means of tooth replacement. Its insertion in the mouth leads to altering the oral environment and increases plaque formation, particularly on tooth surface of those in contact with the acrylic partial denture facilitating the initiation of caries. Aim The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of acrylic RPDs on caries prevalence in diabetic and nondiabetic patients. Methodology This comparative study was performed on 400 patients of age between 20 and 64 years visiting JSS Dental College and Hospital in Mysuru. Patients participating in this study were explained regarding the survey analysis and informed consent was taken. It was a questionnaire-based clinical study. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were considered for the selection of the study sample and categorize the patients into one of the following groups, with prostheses (Group A) and without prostheses (Group B) and subgroups diabetic patients with prostheses (Group A1) and nondiabetic patients with prostheses (Group A2). Diabetic patients without prostheses (Group B1) and nondiabetic patients without prostheses (Group B2). Sociodemographic information of each patient was recorded, and clinical examination was performed for decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT) using DMFT index. Results A statistically significant high prevalence of dental caries was observed among nondiabetic patients with acrylic RPD (Group A2). Conclusion Acrylic RPD and diabetes had least role in caries prevalence.

Screening the dysfunctional grief and its associated factors due to a death from covid-19 in Tunisia

IntroductionIn Tunisia, the 2019 corona virus pandemic was a challenging health situation, with more than 28 000 confirmed deaths in May 2022. The pandemic was responsible for people losing their beloved ones in a sudden and brutal ways. Even though the numbers of bereaved people had been escalating, little attention was paid toward their mental health. Grief is a normal response to losing someone close. However, recent studies have shown that the covid-19 grief is more severe than other causes of grief. It not only causes a negative impact on the bereaved life aspects but also creates severe consequences in the society. Screening a possible dysfunctional grief is a major need to prevent serious outcomes.ObjectivesTo identify the prevalence of covid-19 dysfunctional grief and find out the possible associated risk factors to it.MethodsA cross sectional online survey designed using Google Forms and distributed on social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp) was conducted from 16 February 2022 to 05 May 2022. The participants provided information related to socio-demographic data. Covid-19 grief scale was assessed using the pandemic grief scale, which was translated into Arabic but not validated.ResultsA sample of 106 participants were recruited to this study .The sample was composed of Approximately 72% female and 28 % males, most of them were aged between 26 and 35 years old (37.7% ) . Overall, individuals who lost a loved one more than 06 months period were more frequent (81%). 91.7 % of the sample scored above the cut score of 7 on the PGS.Covid-19 grief was higher among those who sought psychological help (p = 0.02). In this sample, there was no associated risk factors between different socio-demographic characteristics and dysfunctional grief, as well as no correlation were found between period of time since the loss and dysfunctional grief ( rho = 0.186, p = 0.56) .ConclusionsAlthough our study did not find a significant high prevalence of dysfunctional grief giving the small number of participants. More studies and screening must be conducted to identify those at risk of developing dysfunctional grief to prevent the serious individual and general outcomes.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Obstructive sleep apnea in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Egyptian population

BackgroundSleep disordered breathing (SDB) is a widespread disorder with a wide range of harmful outcomes including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), or sleep-related hypoventilation.PurposeThe aim of the present study was to screen for the occurrence of sleep apnea syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) and to evaluate the relation between the presence of sleep apnea and the level of glycemic control.MethodsThis was a prospective clinical study that enrolled 59 patients who were previously diagnosed as type 2 DM. Sleep study level IV was done using overnight recording of oxygen saturation and pulse.ResultsAmong the studied patients, 42 were females and 17 were males, Their mean age was 59.76 ± 11.13 years. Obstructive sleep apnea was diagnosed in 46 patients (78%). Thirty three (86.8%) patients among those with uncontrolled glycemic level were diagnosed as OSA, whereas 13(61.9%) patients with controlled glycemic level were diagnosed as OSA showing statistically significant difference, p = 0.047. There was no correlation between either HbA1c, age, Mallampati score, or BMI and ODI but there was a correlation between STOP-BANG questionnaire and ODI (P = 0.036). The variables that were significantly related to presence of OSA, were comorbidities, ESS, Mallampati score, STOP-BANG, and sleep symptoms (nocturia and snoring) P value (0.029), (0.031), (0.022), (0.005), (0.049), and (0.012), respectively.ConclusionPatients with type 2 diabetes showed a significant high prevalence of OSA. With significant higher prevalence among patients with uncontrolled DM versus controlled DM.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CAROTID INTIMA MEDIA THICKNESS AND PHENOTYPES OF HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE IN ADOLESCENTS

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the Carotid Intima Media Thickness (cIMT) and high blood pressure phenotypes (HBPP) in a population of Hispanic adolescents. Design and method: It was conducted a cross-sectional study in Maracaibo, Venezuela that included 616 adolescents, 289 males and 327 females, selected from high school institutions (age: 13-18 years old). An ultrasonic study was carried out through high resolution B-mode ultrasound examinations for the measurement of the c-IMT. Also, 24-hs ambulatory blood pressure (ABPM) monitoring was performed to obtain ambulatory BP during 24-hs, awake and asleep periods. Demographic (age, gender), anthropometric data [weight, height, hip circumference, waist circumference (WC)] and office BP were recorded. The HBPP included were: true normotension (TN), sustained (SH), white coat (WCH) and masked (MH) hypertension according the new American Heart Association recommendations. Spearman Correlation was used to estimate the association between c-IMT and HBBPP. Results: The mean c-IMT value was 0.42 mm in all adolescents, 0.43 in males and 0.41 in females (p = 0.01). The HBPP prevalence in all adolescents was: 4. % (n = 26) for SH, 21.6 % (n = 133) for MH, 1.0 % (n = 6) for WCH and 73.2 % (n = 451) for TN. Males showed statistically significant high prevalence of MH and SH than female group [(28.4% vs. 15.6% for MH) and (8.3% vs. 0.6%) for SH. The adolescents with SH showed statistically significant higher values than those with TN in c-IMTI values [0.45±0.05 vs. 0.41.2±0.061 mm, p = 0.01]. There were statistically significant associations between c-IMT values with HBPP (Sperman rho = 0.115, p = 0.01). Conclusions: This study showed important associations between c-IMT values and HBPP in adolescents. Also, there is a very high prevalence of MH and SH; this condition appears to be associated with male gender. It should be important to evaluate c-IMT in those adolescents with office or ambulatory high BP values to investigate possible vascular changes induced by hypertension.

Prevalence of functional gastrointestinal disorders in Italian children living in different regions: analysis of the difference and the role of diet

BackgroundFunctional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDs) are common in pediatric age. AimsTo estimate the prevalence of FGIDs in Italian children and evaluate the impact of diet. MethodsHealthy children aged 4–18 years were recruited in a multicenter cross-sectional study. We evaluated their eating habits and the presence of FGIDs, using Rome IV criteria, 3-day food diaries and Mediterranean Diet Quality Index (KIDMED) questionnaires. ResultsSeven hundred forty subjects were enrolled:369 children aged 4–9 years (Group A), and 371 adolescents 10–18 years old (Group B). The overall prevalence of FGIDs was 26.4% in Group A and 26.2% in Group B, with a significant higher prevalence in females in both groups. The most frequent disorders were functional constipation, functional dyspepsia, and abdominal migraine. No significant difference in FGIDs prevalence was found between Northern and Southern Italy, despite significant variation in diet. In Group A there was a significant difference in KIDMED between North and South (5.3 ± 1 vs 6 ± 1.2, respectively; p = 0.001). A significant association between FGIDs and KIDMED was found in Group A (OR=0.83, p = 0.034), but not in Group B (OR=0.89, p = 0.166). ConclusionsFGIDs are common in Italian children, with a higher prevalence in females. Despite significant differences in dietary habits between North and South, FGIDs prevalence does not vary significantly.

First Molecular Investigation of lumpy Skin Disease in Buffaloes Using the Qualitative and Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction Assays, Iraq.

Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is one of the most important infectious bovine diseases in Iraq in the last 10 years; however, the current study represents the first investigation to confirm the disease in buffaloes as well as ticks with estimation the association of positivity to clinical vital signs and risk factors. A total of 150 buffaloes were subjected for blood sampling, skin lesions and ticks. All the collected samples; 150 blood, 13 skin lesions, and 29 tick samples, were examined molecularly using the conventional and real-time PCR assays. The total positive results of blood, skin and ticks by conventional PCR were 5.33, 7.69 and 0%, respectively; while for real-time PCR, it was 15.33, 7.69 and, 0%, respectively. Insignificant differences were showed between values of temperature, pulse and respiratory rates of LSD positive and negative buffaloes by the conventional and real-time PCR assays. The association of positive conventional PCR results to risk factors (age, sex and region) was revealed a significant increase in prevalence and risk of LSD in buffaloes aged < 1 year; but for gender, insignificant variation in prevalence but not risk was seen between females and males. In case of different geographical region, significant higher prevalence was reported in Wasit; while, buffaloes of Maysan and Wasit were appeared at higher risk than those of Dhi-Qar. Regarding real-time PCR, insignificant differences were found between values of < 1, 1-4 and > 4-8 years age old, but not in group of >8 that showed a significant decline in positivity (0%). For sex, insignificant variation in prevalence, but not risk, was seen between females and males. Concerning region, buffaloes of Wasit province were recorded a significant higher values of prevalence and risk than other regions. LSD in buffaloes is mainly sub-acute, and PCR appeared to be a suitable diagnostic method in detection of infection; however, furthermore studies are necessary.

Assessing the Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in the Management of Treatment Resistant Depression: A Scoping Review

IntroductionTreatment-resistant depression (TRD) is the failure to accomplish and/or achieve remission after an adequate trial of different classes of antidepressant treatments. TRD presents with significant disability and high prevalence. It results in a substantive socio-economic burden at the community and global levels. TRD. Studies comparing pharmacotherapy and electroconvulsive therapy with repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) have demonstrated evidence in support of the therapeutic efficacy of rTMS in TRD.ObjectivesThis comprehensive scoping review aimed to explore and garner information in the literature regarding the crucial role of rTMS and its therapeutic efficacy as a treatment modality for TRD.MethodsElectronic data searches in PubMed, PsycINFO, Medline, Embase, and Cinahl were conducted to identify important articles on rTMS for TRD. The data search strategy was limited to articles written in English and published within the last five years, to the date of the data search (February 2022). Articles were reviewed if they reported on a completed randomized controlled trial of rTMS treatment in TRD. Articles were excluded if they were protocols of rTMS on TRD and studies with rTMS for the treatment of conditions other than TRD. The review process was reported using the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR).ResultsIn total, 17 studies met the eligibility criteria for this review. The geographical breakdown of the extracted studies consisted of North America (n = 9), Europe (n = 5), Asia (n = 2), and Australia (n = 1). The frequencies of rTMS applied in the various studies ranged from 5 Hz to 50 Hz, with stimulation intensities ranging from 80% MT to 120% MT. Overall, 16 out of the 17 studies demonstrated evidence that suggested rTMS treatment was effective, safe, and tolerated in the management of patients with TRD.ConclusionsOverall, rTMS appeard to provide significant therapeutic benefits for patients with TRD through the reduction of depressive symptoms. However, while there is progressive evidence in support of rTMS in TRD, more research is needed to define the standardized protocols of rTMS application in terms of localization, frequency, intensity, and pulse parameters to realize its full potency in TRD.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Вплив хронічних захворювань слизової оболонки порожнини рота на якість життя пацієнтів

Actuality. Oral health (dental health) is an important factor that affects the quality of human life. Deterioration of oral cavity health adversely affects speech, chewing and swallowing, and social activities. According to the literature, the prevalence of diseases of the oral mucosa ranges from 10.8 to 61.6% in various populations with clinically significant morbidity and high prevalence among young people. Purpose: analysis of the impact of oral mucosal diseases on patients' quality of life using the COMDQ questionnaire. Materials and methods. 90 patients aged 18–62 years with lichen planus, chronic recurrent aphthous stomatitis, leukoplakia and other chronic diseases of the oral mucosa participated in the study. Patients' quality of life was assessed using the COMDQ questionnaire on chronic diseases of the oral mucosa.Statistical analysis was performed using the MedStat program and Microsoft Excel; using the Student's test, statistically significant differences between indicators were determined; the Shapiro- Wilk test was used to check the distribution of the variation series for normality. Spearman's coefficient was used to assess the relationship between indicators. Results. The mean age of the patients was 36.5±26. The mean scores for the COMDQ were 1.3±0.7 for «pain and functional limitations», 1.5±0.7 for «medication and treatment», 2.3±0.9 for «society and emotional state» and 2.3±0.6 for «patient support». Conclusion. The COMDQ questionnaire is a short and informative tool for determining the quality of life of patients with chronic oral mucosal disease. Key words: chronic oral mucosal disease, quality of life, COMDQ questionnaire, indicators, correlations.

Vaginal Bacterial Infection Is Associated With the Occurrence of Spontaneous Abortion during the First Trimester

Background: Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a serious disorder that may be detrimental to a woman's health. Bacterial vaginosis (BV) is a vaginal microsystem disorder that seems to be connected to a higher risk of abortion, early birth, and puerperal endometritis. 60 percent of all vaginitis types are caused by BV. The purpose of this research is to explore whether vaginal bacterial infection is connected to spontaneous abortion during the first trimester. Methods: This was a cross sectional study on 120 pregnant women on the first trimester diagnosed with spontaneous abortion during the first trimester. Results: No significant difference in clinical data of included subjects in both groups. Significant high prevalence of symptoms in pregnancy loss group. Significant increase in lactobacilli in all grades in abortion group compared with evolving pregnancy group. Significant increase in pathogenic bacteria in abortion group. No significant difference in enteric bacteria. A high significant association between infection and abortion occurrence. All pathogens were significantly associated with pregnancy loss occurrence. Also B. Streptococci were significantly associated with abortion occurrence. Conclusion: To exclude out chronic infections, all RSA patients should be evaluated according on their personal infection risk, which involves a thorough history as well as physical and laboratory examinations. Despite the fact that many RSA patients are healthy, monogamous, and have a minimal risk of STDs, they should be checked. During the first trimester, vaginal infection may be a risk factor for spontaneous abortion.

Analysis of SOD1 and C9orf72 mutations in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Antioquia, Colombia.

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a neurodegenerative disease with a possible multifactorial origin characterized by the progressive degeneration of motor neurons. There is a relatively high prevalence of this disease in Antioquia; however, there is no published genetic study to date in Colombia. Despite its unknown etiopathogenesis, more genetic risk factors possibly involved in the development of this disease are constantly found. To evaluate G93A and D90A mutations in SOD1 gene and a short tandem repeat in C9orf72 within a cohort of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients from Antioquia, Colombia. Materials y methods: Thirty-four patients previously diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis were included in the study. Peripheral blood samples were used for DNA extraction and genotyping. No mutations were found in SOD1 (G93A and D90A) in any of the patients, while C9orf72 exhibited an allele with a statistically significant high prevalence in the study sample (8 hexanucleotide repeats of CAGCAG). These results suggest an association between this short tandem repeat (STR) in C9orf72 and the presence of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in the studied population. However, this association should be established in a larger sample size and with controls from the same population. In addition, there also seems to be a genetic anticipation effect for the disease regarding this locus, since patients with this genotype present an earlier onset.

Geospatial analysis of hypospadias and cryptorchidism prevalence rates based on postal code in a Canadian province with stable population

Hypospadias and cryptorchidism are hormone-mediated malformations that occur during male development. Prevalence rates of hypospadias and cryptorchidism are thought to be increasing worldwide. In-utero exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may have a role in the occurrence of these malformations. Our group has reported significant clustering of hypospadias and cryptorchidism at the county level in areas of intense agricultural activity in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia (NS). Finer scale spatial analysis has shown clustering near urban centres. The objectives of the study were: 1) to perform a granular geospatial analysis of hypospadias and cryptorchidism prevalence, at the postal code level, of all babies born in NS over a 26-year period; and 2) to determine whether there is spatial correlation between these conditions and industries linked to toxic output. Cases of hypospadias and cryptorchidism were identified based on ICD-10 codes from the Nova Scotia Atlee Perinatal Database with records of all live births in NS between 1988 and 2013. Data were geocoded and mapped based on the three first digits of the maternal postal code (Forward Sortation Area [FSA]). Regional prevalence of congenital anomalies was calculated for each of the 77 FSAs. To identify statistically significant high and low prevalence clusters for each anomaly, Local Morans I was used on the spatial data. Geospatial point data was created for industries linked to toxic output and correlation between clusters of malformations and proximity to these industries was assessed. During the study period, there were 1045 cases of hypospadias and 993 cases of cryptorchidism. Both hypospadias and cryptorchidism demonstrated statistically significant areas of high prevalence clusters. There was no significant spatial correlation between the local clustering of the congenital malformations and proximity to toxic industries. Our study shows heterogeneity in the distribution of hypospadias and cryptorchidism, which is consistent with previously published works. In this follow-up, granular geospatial analysis of hypospadias and cryptorchidism prevalence in an area with stable population, we did not confirm the previous findings of high clustering in areas of intense agricultural activity. Furthermore, our analysis did not find high clustering of the congenital malformations in areas near toxic industries to support a clear environmental role in their development. Some of the limitations include underdiagnosis of hypospadias and cryptorchidism (as they both present with a clinical spectrum and are non-life threatening), and limited data currently available on the route of exposure to EDC industries in Nova Scotia.

Molecular Prevalence of Selected Tick-Borne Pathogens in Dermacentor reticulatus Collected in a Natural Park in Italy.

Dermacentor reticulatus is one of the most important vectors of tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in Europe causing diseases in animals and humans. A longitudinal study was planned, aimed to detect the molecular prevalence of tick-borne pathogens, i.e., Babesia spp. and the spotted fever group Rickettsiae, and its seasonal variation in D. reticulatus questing ticks to define the temporal infection risk. Ticks were collected monthly over a period of 15 months in a peri-urban park in Lombardy, Italy. DNA extraction and molecular analyses were performed. Statistical analysis was carried out. Out of 488, 53 (P = 10.9%) adult questing ticks were positive for Babesia DNA. A higher prevalence was revealed in male (32/241, P = 13.3%) than in female (21/247, P = 8.5%) ticks. Positive ticks were mostly collected in winter months (P = 13.3%) compared to early (P = 7.9) and late (P = 12.8) spring months. A similar percentage of positive ticks was evidenced in transects 1 and 3 (5.8% and 6.5%, respectively); instead, a significant higher prevalence was recorded in transect 2 (P = 16.0%). Obtained sequences confirmed a homology of 100% with B. canis sequences deposited in GenBank. No ticks tested positive for Rickettsia spp. DNA (0/488, P = 0%). The conspicuous circulation of B. canis infection in D. reticulatus adult questing ticks confirms their role in the epidemiology of canine babesiosis and requires preventive measures for dogs in this recreational area. Even if no tick was positive for the spotted fever group Rickettsia, its capacity as a vector of zoonotic pathogens should not be neglected.

Variations of root and canal morphology of mandibular second molars in Chinese individuals: a cone-beam computed tomography study

BackgroundThe mandibular second molars demonstrate variations on root and canal morphology. The aim of this study was to investigate all the root canal morphology of mandibular second molars and analyze the morphological variations in patients by gender and age in a Chinese population use CBCT imaging.MethodsCone-beam computed tomographic images of 1200 bilateral mandibular second molars were obtained from 600 patients (300 females and 300 males) who required a preoperative assessment for implant surgery, surgical removal of impacted teeth, orthodontic treatment, surgery of maxillofacial tumour and cysts or LeFort I osteotomy. CBCT images were divided into 5 groups according to age: “15–24 years”, “25–34 years”, “35–44 years”, “45–54 years” and “≥ 55 years”; and 2 groups by gender: “females” and “males”. The following information were recorded: the number of roots and canals and their morphology, the frequency and configuration of C-shaped canals by gender, age and position (left and right). The chi-square test was used to analyse differences between groups. P value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.ResultsOf the 1200 teeth, 61% had two separate roots located mesiodistally, 35.6% had one C-shaped root. The 45.3% teeth had three canals in two-rooted mandibular second molars. The mesial root showed a Vertucci type II configuration in 28.9% cases followed by type IV(24.4%). While the distal root showed a significant higher prevalence of type I configuration in 95.6%. In the examined 1200 teeth, 430 teeth (35.8%) had C-shaped root canals. The prevalence of C-shaped root canal systems was significantly higher in females (42.5%) than in males (29.1%) (P = 0.000), and did not differ with age (P = 0.126). The 80.4% C-shaped canals were bilateral (P = 0.000) and did not differ with side (left and right) (P = 0.758).ConclusionsThe most commonly observed root morphology for the mandibular second molars was 2 separate roots with three canals.The prevalence of C-shaped root canal is 35.8% and is more higher in females than in males.

Self-reported difficulty in walking 400 meters: the “red flag” for probable sarcopenia

BackgroundSarcopenia is associated with adverse outcomes in older people. Several tools are recommended to assess muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance, but are not always available in daily practice.ObjectiveThe aim of the present study is to evaluate if there is a correlation between the personal perception of physical performance (assessed through a question on personal functional status) and the effective presence of sarcopenia (according to the EWGSOP2 definition) using data from the Longevity Check-up 7 + project.DesignCross-sectional study.SettingThe Longevity Check-up 7 + project is an ongoing study started in June 2015 and conducted in unconventional settings (i.e., exhibitions, malls, and health promotion campaigns).SubjectsCandidate participants are eligible for enrollment if they are at least 18 years of age and provide written informed consent. For the present study subjects 65 years age old and older have been considered (n = 2901).MethodsAccording to the most recent EWGSOP2 consensus definition, subjects were defined to be affected by probable sarcopenia when handgrip strength was less than 27 kg in male and less than 16 kg in female, respectively. Furthermore, a single question assessed the perceived health status regarding own physical performance: “Do you have any difficulty in walking 400 m?”.ResultsUsing the EWGSOP2 algorithm, 529 (18,9%) participants were identified as affected by probable sarcopenia with a significant higher prevalence among subjects with self-reported difficulty in walking 400 m compared to participant without any difficulty (33.6% versus 13.1%, respectively; p < 0.001). Relative to participants without self-reported difficulty, those subjects with self-reported difficulty in walking 400 m showed a significantly higher risk of sarcopenia (odds ratio [OR]: 3.34; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.75–4.07).ConclusionsA single “Red Flag” question such as “Do you have any difficulty in walking 400 m?” should be considered as a recommended method for screening probable sarcopenia risk.

Clinicoepidemiological Features of Childhood and Adult Vitiligo - A Cross- Sectional Observational Study

BACKGROUND&#x0D; Vitiligo is an acquired primary, usually progressive, melanocytopenia of unknown aetiology clinically manifested by circumscribed achromic macules and histologically by degeneration and disappearance of melanocytes in involved skin. Childhood vitiligo deserves special attention as it has unique epidemiological features. We wanted to determine, compare and analyze the clinical and epidemiological features and autoimmune disease associations in childhood vitiligo and adult vitiligo.&#x0D; METHODS&#x0D; It was a prospective cross-sectional observational hospital-based clinical study conducted in a suburban medical college hospital over 20 months which involved 120 patients with vitiligo who were assessed using detailed history and clinical examination for demographic and clinical data. Relevant history and family history were noted. Investigations including complete hemogram, serum biochemistry profile, thyroid profile and fasting plasma glucose examination were performed in all patients. Data were collected, tabulated, and all statistical analysis was done by using SPSS trial version 25 and in MS Excel 2007.&#x0D; RESULTS&#x0D; The majority of patients were in the age group of 16-30 years. Among 60 patients, female preponderance was noted in the study with a percentage of 53.3 % followed by 46 % males in the childhood group. The prevalence of segmental vitiligo was more in children (30 %) than in adults (5 %) which was statistically significant (P= 0.000). In adults, there was a statistically significant higher prevalence (P=0.000) of mucosal vitiligo (30 %) than in children (3.35 %). On performing statistical analysis, thyroid dysfunction (P=0.00) and diabetes mellitus (P=0.01) were found to be significantly more prevalent in adults than in children.&#x0D; CONCLUSIONS&#x0D; This study provides clinical evidence that vitiligo at different ages has different characteristics mainly regarding an increased incidence of segmental vitiligo and a more common positive family history among children than adults. A higher prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and diabetes mellitus in adult vitiligo patients compared to children warrants prompt treatment in all detected cases to prevent long-term morbidity and complications.

Plasma Netrin-1 &amp; cardiovascular risk in children with end stage renal disease

Background: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the most common cause of mortality and morbidity in children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) which arises from the interaction of several risk factors. The aim of the study is to assess CV risk of ESKD children and outline the impact of KTX on this CV risk. Also valuate the relation between plasma Netrin-1, chronic inflammatory markers and CV risk. Methods: Sixty ESKD (30 on regular hemodialysis (HD), 30 recipients of kidney transplant (KTX)) were assessed using 24 hour AMBP assessment, laboratory (including lipid profile and markers of chronic inflammation namely N/L and HsCRP) and echocardiographic data. Plasma netrin-1 was assessed by ELISA technique for all patients. Results: showed significant higher prevalence of hypertension, higher number of patients with 24hrs BP&gt; 95th percentile by ABPM, more prevalence of nocturnal non-dipping BP, higher percentage of obese and overweight patients, worse biochemical analysis, higher chance of medical calcification by higher Po4 and Ca X Po4, higher triglyceride level and lower HDL level and higher N/L in HD than KTX group. Significant inverse relation was detected between plasma netrin 1 and Hs CRP and between netrin 1 and N/L (p&lt;0.001).

Risk assessment of labial bone perforation in the anterior mandibular region: a virtual immediate implant placement study

BackgroundThis study investigated the prevalence of labial bone perforation (LBP) related to the associated anatomic factors in anterior mandibular region using a virtual immediate implant placement procedure.MethodsSeries qualified CBCT images of 149 participants (894 teeth) were selected to analyze the assigned anatomical parameters, including concavity depth, concavity angle, torque, and deep bone thickness. Four classes of crestal and radicular dentoalveolar bone phenotypes (CRDAPs) of mandibular anterior teeth were categorized according to the thickness of dentoalveolar bone at both crestal and radicular zones. Data were adjusted for categorical (gender and CRDAP) and continuous (age, cavity angle, cavity depth, and deep bone thickness) variables using a multivariable logistic regression analysis with generalized estimating equation method.ResultsThe overall probability of LBP after virtual implant placement was 21.6%. There is statistically significant higher prevalence of LBP at canine (28.5%) and CRDAP class II (29.2%) regions (p < 0.001). After adjusting confounding variables, CRDAP class II and class IV regions are more likely to have LBP when compared with CRDAP class I (control) regions (p < 0.01). The risk of LBP at canine site is 6.31 times more likely than at the central incisor (control) (p < 0.01).ConclusionsUsing a virtual immediate implant placement technique, the prevalence of LBP is significantly higher at the mandibular canine site and thin radicular dentoalveolar phenotype in the anterior mandibular region.

Use of online and paper-and-pencil questionnaires to assess the distribution of orthorexia nervosa, muscle dysmorphia and eating disorders among university students: can different approaches lead to different results?

PurposeAdministration of questionnaires to assess the diffusion of disordered eating behaviours via the web is becoming common today. The aim of this study is to assess whether two different approaches of administering a test to assess traits of eating disorders (EDs), orthorexia nervosa (ON) and muscle dysmorphia (MD) by email recruitment and online completion (web-based survey—WBS) and by in person recruitment and paper-and-pencil completion (paper-based survey—PBS), gives different results.MethodsDuring 2 consecutive academic years, a self-reported questionnaire consisting of questions about personal characteristics and three tests for the evaluation of ON (ORTO-15), MD (MDDI-ITA), and EDs (EAT-26) were administered to two groups of undergraduates, respectively, as a WBS and a PBS.ResultsThe WBS response rate was 6.7% (N = 137), and the PBS response rate was 86.5% (N = 372). The WBS group showed a statistically significant higher prevalence of students with eating disordered behaviours (21.2% vs 5.4%) and registered a higher mean score on the EAT-26 test (13.5 ± 11.1 vs 6.0 ± 8.0); no differences between the two groups emerged for ON and MD prevalence and test scores. Moreover, in the WBS group, the number of students with one or more tests with test scores above the cut-off values was significantly higher (46.0% vs 32.3%).ConclusionThe choice of the approach to administer a questionnaire to assess the diffusion of EDs and related issues must take into account all the factors that can result in selection bias and that can affect the reliability of the results.Level of evidenceLevel V, descriptive cross-sectional survey.

Prevalence of Pulmonary Hypertension in an Unselected Community-Based Population: A Retrospective Echocardiographic Study-RES-PH Study.

Introduction. The actual prevalence of pulmonary hypertension (PH) in Italy is unknown. Echocardiography is useful in the screening of patients with suspected PH by estimation of the pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) from the regurgitant tricuspid flow velocity evaluation, according to the simplified Bernoulli equation. Objectives. We aimed to evaluate the frequency of suspected PH among unselected patients. Methods. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional database search of 7005 patients, who underwent echocardiography, to estimate the prevalence of PH, between January 2013 and December 2014. Medical and echocardiographic data were collected from a stratified etiological group of PH, using criteria of the European Society of Cardiology classifications. Results. The mean age of the study population was 57.1 ± 20.5 years, of which 55.3% were male. The prevalence of intermediate probability of PH was 8.6%, with nearly equal distribution between men and women (51.3 vs. 48.7%; p = 0.873). The prevalence of high probability of PH was 4.3%, with slightly but not significant higher prevalence in female patients (43.2 vs. 56.8%; p = 0.671). PH is predominant in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or left ventricle (LV) systolic dysfunction and related with age. PASP was significantly linked with left atrial increase and left ventricular ejection fraction. In addition, an increased PASP was related to an enlargement of the right heart chamber. Conclusions. PH has a frequency of 4.3% in our unselected population, but the prevalence may be more relevant in specific subgroups. A larger epidemiological registry could be an adequate strategy to increase quality control and identify weak points in the evaluation and treatment of these patients.