Tag: pubmed

Acta Med Acad. 2026 May 26. doi: 10.5644/ama2006-124.509. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: This retrospective study aimed to record, analyze, and evaluate data concerning patients who underwent total thyroidectomy, focusing on the main indications that led to surgical therapy, as well as postoperative complications and oncological outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted on 312 patients who underwent total thyroidectomy or lobectomy at the First Department of Surgery of Sismanogleio General Hospital in Athens between 2019 and 2024. Demographic data, indications, intraoperative parameters, complications, and histological findings were recorded. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS v29.0.

RESULTS: Among the 312 patients, 222 (71.2%) were female, and 90 (28.8%) were male, with a mean age of 54.3±13.3 years. Total thyroidectomy was performed in 96.5% of the cases. The main indications were nodular hyperplasia (31.4%), autoimmune thyroiditis (18.9%), multinodular goiter (12.8%), and papillary carcinoma (17.3%). The overall complication rate was 31.7%, with transient postoperative hypocalcemia being the most common complication (25.3%). Permanent hypocalcemia occurred in 1.9% of patients, hemorrhage in 3.5%, and recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy in 1.3% of patients. Papillary carcinoma was the most frequent malignancy, followed by follicular, medullary, and anaplastic carcinomas. Approximately 20% of patients were diagnosed with incidental carcinoma-mostly papillary microcarcinoma-emphasizing the importance of total thyroidectomy, even for benign thyroid diseases.

CONCLUSIONS: Total thyroidectomy is a safe and effective therapeutic option with low rates of permanent complications. The systematic identification and preservation of the parathyroid glands, intraoperative nerve monitoring, and meticulous hemostasis are key factors for minimizing inadvertent complications and optimizing outcomes.

PMID:42227046 | DOI:10.5644/ama2006-124.509

Cardiol Young. 2026 Jun 2:1-6. doi: 10.1017/S1047951126113456. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Echocardiography has become a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing heart diseases in children within low- and middle-income countries, where the burden of heart diseases remains substantial.

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to audit echocardiography (echo) reports by reviewing the trends in echocardiography, indications for echocardiography, and the frequency and pattern of paediatric heart diseases seen at the Paediatric Cardiology Unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, over a five-year period.

METHODS: A total of 1,155 echocardiography reports were reviewed using a structured proforma to extract relevant data. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS version 25.

RESULTS: Male participants constituted 52.1% of the study population. Ages ranged from 9 hours to 18 years, with a mean ± SD of 3.24 ± 4.46 years. The most frequent indication for echocardiography was fast breathing (38.27%). Approximately 31.86% of the echocardiograms were normal. CHD accounted for 63.55% of diagnoses, with 67.17% classified as acyanotic CHD and 32.83% as cyanotic CHD. Ventricular septal defect (VSD, 15.26%) and tetralogy of Fallot (TOF, 14.99%) were the most common CHDs. Acquired heart diseases were found in 4.59% of cases, with rheumatic heart disease being the most prevalent within this group (35.85%).

CONCLUSION: CHDs remain the predominant paediatric heart diseases, occurring nearly 14 times more frequently than acquired heart diseases. Ventricular septal defect and tetralogy of Fallot were the most common acyanotic and cyanotic CHDs, respectively. Among the acquired heart diseases, rheumatic heart disease was the leading diagnosis.

PMID:42227033 | DOI:10.1017/S1047951126113456

Development. 2026 Jun 2:dev.205559. doi: 10.1242/dev.205559. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

KAT6A (MOZ) and KAT6B (QKF/MORF) are related histone lysine acetyltransferases (KATs) that have a high degree of functional redundancy during development. In the absence of KAT6A embryos undergo an anterior homeotic transformation of the axial skeleton, develop an interrupted aortic arch, have ventricular septal defects and fail to form definitive hematopoietic stem cells. KAT6B has roles in brain, skeletal and hematopoietic system development. Since loss of KAT6A leads to highly penetrant phenotypes this allows us to determine if the acetylation function is essential for all activities. We show that loss of acetyltransferase activity did not phenocopy the loss of the KAT6A protein. While the mutation the KAT domains of both KAT6A and KAT6B together increased the severity of phenotypes observed, these were milder than complete KAT6A loss of function. KAT domain mutants displayed ventricular septal defects and reduced (but not eliminated) hematopoietic stem cell activity. However, they did not display homeotic transformations or aortic arch defects, suggesting that while acetylation is important some functions, others can proceed without this activity. Accordingly, KAT6 proteins appear to have functions beyond acetylation.

PMID:42227022 | DOI:10.1242/dev.205559

Arch Razi Inst. 2025 Sep 1;80(5):1151-1160. doi: 10.32598/ARI.80.5.3611. eCollection 2025 Sep.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Although the efficacy of the vaccine is influenced by various factors, including vitamin D levels, studies in this field have yielded different results. Vaccination with the attenuated sheeppox virus vaccine (RM/65) remains a preventive strategy in countries where lumpy skin disease (LSD) is prevalent, but there is no evidence from experimental research on the effect of vitamin D on the immune response to this vaccine for the prevention of LSD.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Twenty calves were selected and divided into four groups. To ensure that calves had different baseline levels of vitamin D, they were divided into two groups. One group was exposed to sunlight, while the other two groups were kept in the shade. Each of these groups was further divided into two treatment groups: One receiving vitamin D (cholecalciferol) injections and the other a control group. All groups received the attenuated sheeppox virus vaccine (RM/65), while only two groups received vitamin D simultaneously with the vaccine. Blood samples were collected from each calf weekly for six weeks. Sheeppox virus antibodies were measured according to the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) protocol, with a neutralization index (NI) titer of ≥1.5 international units considered protective.

RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed a significant increase in sheeppox virus antibody levels within individual groups after day 21 (P≤0.01). However, no significant differences were observed between the four groups beyond this time point. Consequently, antibody levels in the groups receiving vitamin D did not differ from those in the other groups.

CONCLUSION: These findings are consistent with previous studies, indicating that vitamin D supplementation does not affect the efficacy of the vaccine.

PMID:42226998 | PMC:PMC13222432 | DOI:10.32598/ARI.80.5.3611

Arch Razi Inst. 2025 Sep 1;80(5):1269-1276. doi: 10.32598/ARI.80.5.3136. eCollection 2025 Sep.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: This study investigates the prevalence of cancer, compares inflammatory factors, and examines how inflammatory markers- C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and plasma viscosity (PV)-can aid in the early diagnosis of cancer in primary care settings.

MATERIALS & METHODS: We included newly diagnosed patients of all types of malignancy (children and adults) in this retrospective study from 2018 to 2023. The results of CRP, ESR, PV tests, and demographic data (age, gender, type of malignancy, and survival) were collected. Research data were analyzed using the t-test and chi-square statistical methods. According to the results, the average ESR and PV were higher in patients who died than in those who survived (P<0.05). In addition, it was shown that there was a significant relationship between the age and gender of the patients and their survival (P<0.05). It was also shown that there was a significant relationship between the survival of patients with ESR, CRP, and PV across different cancers (P<0.05). On the other hand, a significant correlation was found between ESR, CRP, and PV among different cancers (P<0.05).

RESULTS: Based on the results, it was shown that the average ESR and PV were higher in patients who died than in those who survived (P<0.05). In addition, it was shown that there was a significant relationship between the age and gender of the patients and their survival (P<0.05). It was also shown that there was a significant relationship between the survival of patients and ESR, CRP and PV across different cancers (P<0.05). On the other hand, it was shown that there was a significant correlation between ESR, CRP and PV among different cancers (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION: To halt the progression of acute inflammation to chronic inflammation and mitigate its harmful implications, it is essential to reduce the inflammatory response. Efficient management of inflammation is crucial in preventing patient mortality and is thus essential for the treatment and survival of patients with malignancies.

PMID:42226996 | PMC:PMC13222412 | DOI:10.32598/ARI.80.5.3136

Arch Razi Inst. 2025 Sep 1;80(5):1217-1228. doi: 10.32598/ARI.80.5.3397. eCollection 2025 Sep.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The objective of the present study was to assess the impact of spiking and intra-spiking on mitigating the decline in fertility and hatchability associated with aging roosters in broiler breeder flocks.

MATERIALS & METHODS: A total of 162 Ross 308 strain birds were utilized, divided into six replicates, each consisting of nine individuals (eight hens and one cock). These replicates were randomly assigned to one of three management treatments: Group 1 (control group), group 2 (spiking group), or group 3 (intra-spiking group). Data were systematically collected from 42 to 62 weeks of age. Semen samples were obtained four times during the experimental period and evaluated for semen characteristics. Additionally, blood samples were supplied for quantifying concentrations of insulin, creatinine, testosterone, and nitric oxide. Following the experimental phase, each rooster was weighed and subsequently slaughtered, wherein testicular tissues were harvested for histological analysis. Fertility and hatchability rates were computed based on the collected data.

RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in semen characteristics among the experimental groups. However, the spiking group exhibited a statistically significant increase in testicular weight compared to the control and intra-spiking groups (P≤0.05). Furthermore, there were greater counts of spermatocytes, spermatids, and spermatozoa in the spiking group (P≤0.05). Conversely, the control group demonstrated elevated numbers of Sertoli cells, increased seminiferous duct diameters, and greater thickness of the germinal epithelium compared to the treatment groups (P≤0.05). The decline in fertility and hatchability rates associated with advancing age was less pronounced in the spiking group when compared to the other experimental groups. While concentrations of insulin and creatinine did not exhibit significant variations among the groups, testosterone and nitric oxide levels were significantly higher in the spiking group (P≤0.05).

CONCLUSION: The research findings indicate that spiking represents an effective strategy for maintaining fertility and enhancing hatchability rates in aged broiler flocks, as well as consequently increasing the economic profitability for broiler breeder producers.

PMID:42226992 | PMC:PMC13222422 | DOI:10.32598/ARI.80.5.3397

Arch Razi Inst. 2025 Sep 1;80(5):1259-1268. doi: 10.32598/ARI.80.5.3497. eCollection 2025 Sep.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: The Osun River is prone to contamination from industrial, agricultural, and domestic activities, resulting in heavy metal pollution. Widespread contaminants such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and arsenic can build up in aquatic ecosystems, presenting serious health hazards to both wildlife and humans. Even at low concentrations, heavy metals are toxic, with the testes being particularly vulnerable given their essential functions in reproduction and hormone regulation. This study aims to examine the potential testicular damage resulting from prolonged exposure to heavy metal-contaminated Osun River water.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Thirty adult male Wistar rats, averaging 160 g in weight, were randomly divided into six groups (A-F), with each group consisting of five rats. Group A functioned as the control, whereas groups B, C, and D were exposed to mercury (6.8 mg/kg), cyanide (25.8 mg/kg), and lead (47 mg/kg), respectively. Group E received a combination of two heavy metals (lead and mercury) and a toxic compound (cyanide), while group F was given unrestricted access to Osun River water. All substances were administered orally via an oral cannula for a duration of four weeks.

RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences among the groups exposed to mercury, cyanide, lead, and Osun River water. Toxic effects on the testes included disorganization of seminiferous tubules, altered spermatogenic cell arrangement, structural changes in the basal membrane, testicular stroma abnormalities, and reduced sperm count, motility, and viability. These effects were dose- and time-dependent, occurring even at low concentrations.

CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that exposure to heavy metals, whether individually or through contaminated Osun River water, leads to significant testicular damage. The observed alterations in testicular architecture and sperm parameters emphasize the toxic impact of mercury, cyanide, and lead on reproductive health. This study underscores the importance of addressing environmental contamination to safeguard both human and animal reproductive systems.

PMID:42226974 | PMC:PMC13222420 | DOI:10.32598/ARI.80.5.3497

Arch Razi Inst. 2025 Sep 1;80(5):1209-1216. doi: 10.32598/ARI.80.5.3494. eCollection 2025 Sep.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: Acrylamide (AA) is a chemical compound that poses a major public health concern. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of Nigella sativa (NS) oil against AA- induced toxicity on the submandibular salivary glands (SMGs) of Albino rats.

MATERIALS & METHODS: Thirty male albino rats weighing 150-200 g were equally and randomly divided into some groups: Control group received normal saline vehicle daily via oral gavage for 30 days, AA group received 15 mg/kg body weight of AA dissolved in 0.2 mL saline solution daily via oral gavage for 30 days. NS group received 15 mg/kg body weight (bw) of AA combined with 1 mL/kg bw of NS oil daily via oral gavage for 30 days. At the end of the experiment, rats were euthanized, and SMGs were dissected for histological evaluation, including hematoxylin and eosin staining (H&E) and immunohistochemistry for inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), as well as analysis for heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) expression using realtime polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).

RESULTS: The acinar and ductal cells of SMG of the AA group showed signs of degeneration and toxicity in the form of ill-defined outlines, pyknotic and crescent-shaped nuclei with different-sized cytoplasmic vacuolations. These changes were statistically significant with increased iNOS immunoexpression and HO-1 gene expression (P<0.0001). Administration of NS alleviated the toxic effect, downregulating both iNOS and HO-1 gene expression. The study revealed a significant cytotoxic effect of AA on SMGs of albino rats (P<0.05), presumably by the generation of oxidative stresses and mitochondrial dysfunction.

CONCLUSION: NS effectively mitigated these toxic effects, suggesting its potential as a natural antioxidant.

PMID:42226972 | PMC:PMC13222421 | DOI:10.32598/ARI.80.5.3494

Foot Ankle Orthop. 2026 May 30;11(2):24730114261451239. doi: 10.1177/24730114261451239. eCollection 2026 Apr.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: In clinical practice, static foot posture is frequently interpreted as a proxy for foot structure and function. The Foot Posture Index-6 (FPI-6) is a descriptive tool, often used to infer the presence of flatfoot and abnormal dynamic loading. However, the extent to which static pronation reflects structural arch collapse and functional plantar loading remains unclear.

METHODS: This secondary analysis examined the concordance between static foot posture (FPI-6), structural flatfoot assessed through the Arch Index (AI), and dynamic plantar loading during gait. Data were derived from a previously published cross-sectional data set including 100 healthy adults. Feet were classified as pronated when FPI-6 ≥ +6 and as flatfoot when AI ≥ 0.26. Dynamic plantar pressures were recorded during walking using a pressure platform, with regional peak pressures and vertical forces extracted for the hallux, metatarsals, midfoot, and heel. Associations between measures were explored using Spearman correlations and χ² tests.

RESULTS: Among 200 analyzed feet, 43.2% were classified as pronated by FPI-6, whereas only 19% met flatfoot criteria according to the AI. Overlap between classifications was limited, with only 16.3% of pronated feet also showing structural flatfoot. No statistically significant association could be detected between FPI-6 and AI (ρ = -0.05; P = .445).Distinct dynamic loading patterns emerged, with higher FPI-6 scores associated with increased hallux loading and reduced fifth metatarsal loading, whereas higher AI values correlated with greater central and lateral forefoot loading. These patterns suggest limited concordance between static posture, structural morphology, and dynamic loading characteristics.

CONCLUSION: In this asymptomatic sample, within the present data set, static pronation assessed with the FPI-6 was not significantly associated with structural flatfoot (P = .445) and showed limited concordance with dynamic plantar loading patterns. These findings should be interpreted with caution given the cross-sectional design and the potential nonindependence of bilateral observations. A multidimensional assessment integrating static posture, structural measures, and dynamic analysis may provide a more comprehensive framework for clinical evaluation.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, diagnostic, cross-sectional study.

PMID:42226949 | PMC:PMC13222448 | DOI:10.1177/24730114261451239

Pediatric Health Med Ther. 2026 May 27;17:589691. doi: 10.2147/PHMT.S589691. eCollection 2026.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Among children younger than 5 years, infectious conditions account for the majority of pediatric emergency department visits. Due to nonspecific presentation, early identification of Sepsis and serious bacterial infection is challenging. Procalcitonin (PCT) level has been examined as a marker of sepsis. It has been shown to have advantages over other inflammatory markers.

AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the association between high PCT levels and positive blood, urine, or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cultures in all infant patients suspected of having sepsis/Serious bacterial infections (SBIs) clinically or using the Pediatric Early Warning as integration between elevated PCT and culture-proven infections with PEWS to improve early risk stratification and guide clinical decision-making in a tertiary.

METHODS: This retrospective cross-sectional study included all patients aged 28 to 90 days whose PCT was obtained simultaneously with blood, urine, or CSF cultures and a viral nasopharyngeal aspirate, taken under suspicion of sepsis/SBIs, from January 2020 to December 2021. All statistical analyses were performed using the SPSS software (IBM) version 27.0.1.

FINDINGS: This study included 352 patients. In total, 205 (58.2%) were between 28 and 60 days old, while 147 (41.8%) were aged 60-90 days. The association between the PCT levels and blood culture outcomes was not statistically significant. However, the association between PCT levels and positive urine culture was statistically significant (p = 0.008). In addition, the analysis revealed a nonsignificant association between PCT levels and respiratory viral infection.

CONCLUSION: In this cohort, as a single center, PCT level is not a predictor of positive blood or CSF culture results. In contrast, high PCT levels are significantly associated with positive urinary culture results. The study was conducted at a single center with small sample size which may affect the generalizability of its findings. Future multicenter research with large sample size is required to validate the study findings.

PMID:42226946 | PMC:PMC13222615 | DOI:10.2147/PHMT.S589691