Association of risk factors with musculoskeletal disorders in manual-working farmers

The current study is aimed at recognizing the risk factors for major work-related issues (ie, musculoskeletal disorders [MSDs]) among 138 manual-working farmers. Data were collected using modified Standardized Nordic Questionnaire and the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment score sheet. Different factors influencing MSDs were detected using logistic regression methods. The highest occurrence rate for MSDs was observed in the lower back (71.4%), followed by fingers (62.1%), shoulders (56.4%), and hands/wrists (55%). Factors such as age, gender, daily working hours, hand dominance, perceived fatigue, and work experience were found to be associated with MSDs in one or more upper body regions. The outcome of multinomial regression showed that gender is the most influencing factor for MSDs in all upper body regions except the shoulders. The outcomes of study indicate high occurrence of MSDs among manual-working farmers and highlight the significance of individual and work-related factors.     

Paratricipital two window approach for complex intraarticular distal humerus fractures: A prospective analysis of 27 patients

Background: To investigate the utility and complications of paratricipital 2 window approach for complex intra articular distal humerus fractures (AO/OTA type C). Methods: Between December 2012 and September 2016 , 27 patients (male-14, female-13) having mean age of 39 years (range, 22e62 years) with closed intra articular fracture (AO/OTA 13 type C) were surgically managed using paratricipital 2 window approach. Fractures were fixed as per AO principles. All patients were followed up for 21 months (range, 12e28 months) prospectively. Functional outcome was measured using Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and complications were observed. Student ttest, Pearson co-relation coefficient and Kruskal Wallis test used for statistical evaluation. Result: All cases unite by the end of 3 months. Mean flexion achieved was 120 and extension lag was 10 . Mean arc of motion was 111 . Mean pronation and supination was 70 and 77 respectively. MEPS and motion arc were weak negatively co- related with surgical delay and advancement in age. Postoperative transient ulnar nerve palsy and heterotrophic ossification (HO) was noted in 3.7% cases and infection occurred in 7.4% cases. Hardware prominence noted in 11.1% cases. Mean MEPS was 82. MEPS was excellent in 18.5%, good in 62.9%, fair in 11.1% and poor in 7.4% cases. Conclusion: Paratricipital 2 window approach for these fractures had good functional outcome with fewer complications. We advocate paratricipital 2 window approach when dealing with these complex fractures particularly, in type C1 and type C2.     

Itraconazole as a Noncastrating Treatment for Biochemically Recurrent Prostate Cancer: A Phase 2 Study

Background

Patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer and short prostate-specific antigen doubling time (PSADT) are at risk for metastasis yet may wish to avoid androgen deprivation therapy. Itraconazole may have antitumor activity without affecting circulating androgen levels. We therefore evaluated itraconazole as a potentially noncastrating treatment approach in biochemically recurrent prostate cancer.

Barriers and facilitators to diabetes self-management in a primary care setting – Patient perspectives

Background

Diabetes self-management (DSM) is a key element in the overall management of type-2 diabetes (T2DM). Identifying barriers and facilitators to DSM and addressing them is a critical step in achieving improved health outcomes in this population.

Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) reverses fibrosis caused by chronic colon inflammation in murine model of colitis

Fibrosis is known to be the hallmarks of chronic inflammation of the bowel. Epithelial damage due to inflammation compromises the barrier function of the gastrointestinal tract. This barrier dysfunction leads to further spread of inflammation resulting in a chronic state of inflammation. This chronic inflammation leads to development of fibrosis, which has very limited therapeutic options and usually requires surgical removal of the affected tissue. Our previous work has shown that Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) is a naturally occurring anti-inflammatory agent, found in propolis, has been found to be protective in experimental colitis via enhancement of epithelial barrier function. However, the impact of CAPE on resolution of fibrosis in the long-term is unknown. The aim of this follow up study was to investigate the effect of CAPE on colon fibrosis in a chronic model of Dextran sulphate sodium induced colitis in mice. Dextran sulphate sodium (DSS) 2.5% w/v was administered in drinking water to induce colitis in C57/BL6 mice for 5 days on the 6th day DSS was stopped and test group mice were treated with intraperitoneal administration of CAPE (30?mg?kg^?1 day^?1) for a further 7 days. Disease activity index (DAI) score, colon length and tissue histology and level of tissue fibrosis was observed. CAPE-treated mice had significantly lower levels of DAI, tissue inflammation scores and fibrosis as compared with control group. Our results show that CAPE is effective in resolving colon fibrosis in chronic inflammation. Thus, we can conclude CAPE could be a potential therapeutic agent for further clinical investigations for treatment of fibrosis in inflammatory bowel diseases in humans.     

Melanin-Laden Macrophages in the CSF to Diagnose Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Simulating Ocular Syphilis

Purpose: To describe a case of Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada (VKH) disease initially presenting as ocular syphilis. Methods: A 51-year-old woman presented with counting fingers vision in both eyes. She underwent a complete ophthalmic examination, serological testing, fluorescein angiography, and CSF analysis. Results: Serological testing revealed positive titers for syphilis. Fluorescein angiography demonstrated findings suggesting VKH. CSF cytology showed macrophages containing melanin granules consistent with VKH. Subsequent treatment with corticosteroids and cyclosporine resulted in significant improvement of vision. Conclusion: The presence of melanin-laden macrophages within the CSF allows for the differentiation of VKH from ocular syphilis.