Irish journal of medical science
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Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) may display a motor and/or cognitive disadvantage during dual tasking. However, studies investigating dual task are quite limited in patients with COPD. ⋯ The study results indicate that in individuals with COPD, cognitive performance deteriorations are more pronounced than motor performance defects during dual tasking. Further studies are needed to investigate the effects of dual task taking into account this disadvantage in patients with COPD rather than focusing solely on motor performance.
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In experimental models, the receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) has been reported as a key mediator in cerebral ischemia. In this study, the clinical significance of serum RAGE levels in acute ischemic stroke patients with type 2 diabetes was determined. ⋯ Acute ischemic stroke is associated with elevated serum RAGE level, which, at admission, is an independent predictor of poor outcome for stroke in type 2 diabetes.
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Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) is the most common cause of anal incontinence. Identifying risk factors may facilitate change in labour and delivery practice, potentially reducing the risk. The objective of this study is to identify maternal, foetal and intrapartum risk factors for OASI in a regional hospital. ⋯ Maternal age ≥ 35 years confers a protective effect after adjusting for parity, birth weight and mode of delivery. Given the context of an ageing reproductive population, additional research is required to investigate the impact of maternal age on anal sphincter injury.