Medical principles and practice : international journal of the Kuwait University, Health Science Centre
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Alarmingly high rates of dyslipidemia have been found in the Gulf region in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome, with the highest being found in Kuwait (37%). Therefore, it is of utmost importance to treat dyslipidemia promptly and effectively. In an effort to understand the practices of local physicians, the use of evidence-based medicine, and adherence to lipid treatment guidelines, the objective of this study was to survey and assess the current standards of care. ⋯ Multiple interventions to improve guideline adherence are proposed in this study. We have taken into account the barriers to adherence, i.e., attitude, behavior, and (most importantly) knowledge, all 3 of which were reaffirmed in our investigation in Kuwait.
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The element iodine is an essential nutrient utilized by the thyroid glands, and deficiency of this element has been linked to reproductive failures. Iodide transporters are also present in reproductive tissues and cells of embryonic origin such as the endometrium and trophoblasts, respectively. The aim of this study is to understand if levels of iodide transporters are linked to pregnancy outcomes. ⋯ These findings suggest possible abnormal iodine metabolism and a deficiency of iodine in endometrial tissues from some of the women with reproductive failures. We hypothesize from these findings that inorganic iodide and/or iodine is required for optimal cellular function in reproductive tissues, and that iodide transporters may potentially be used as a marker for infertility or for probing potential localized iodine deficiency that may not present in a typical thyroid panel analysis.
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Soft tissue metastasis (STM) is an uncommon condition in carcinoma. Although various case series related to STM have been reported, few reports have examined prognostic factors. This study aimed to evaluate the characteristics of STM and the factors affecting its prognosis. ⋯ The risk factors for poor diagnosis of STM were no past treatment of the primary tumor and absence of pain. STM in the deep layer is prone to pain.
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Comparative Study
Perception and Attitudes of Dental Students towards Their Role in the Delivery of a Brief Smoking Cessation Intervention.
An assessment of dental students' attitudes and perceptions towards smoking, and their role in smoking cessation, needs to be understood to develop an effective training program in smoking cessation counseling. The aim of the study was to understand attitudes, perceptions, and knowledge of students towards their role in smoking cessation, to understand students' self-reported requirements in relation to skills and knowledge prior to training, and to understand students' self-reported learning from training. ⋯ Students need more client-centered skills and knowledge to bolster their confidence in cessation counseling.
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The aim of the study was to determine the presence of antimicrobial-resistance (AMR) genes, virulence genes, and mobile genetic elements (MGEs) in 14 biofilm-producing clinical isolates of Acinetobacter baumannii. ⋯ Biofilm-producing A. baumannii with multiple virulence and AMR genes pose serious clinical challenges. The presence of MGEs further compounds the situation as these isolates serve as potential reservoirs of AMR and virulence genes. Together with their capacity for natural competence, A. baumannii, if left unchecked, will lead to the spread of resistance determinants to previously sensitive bacteria and may aid in the emergence of untreatable pan-drug-resistant phenotypes.