Pak J Med Sci
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This study was conducted to determine the common mutation of low density lipoprotein receptor in patients with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) in our population and identify the different point mutation in the LDL-receptor gene. The main aim of this study was to reduce the cost of PCR without extracting DNA and do the diagnosis at single step. ⋯ Screening method based on PCR by using Kappa direct PCR could be a faster and cheaper method with least contamination for screening a large number of FH patients for mutation of LDLR gene.
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Intravenous catheters have been indispensable tools of modern medicine. Although intravenous applications can be used for a multitude of purposes, these applications may cause complications, some of which have serious effects. Of these complications, the most commonly observed is phlebitis. This study was conducted to determine the effect of catheter indwell time on phlebitis development during peripheral intravenous catheter administration. ⋯ The results of this study show that catheters can be used for longer periods of time when administered under optimal conditions and with appropriate surveillance.
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Background and objective : During the past few years, Computer-based assessment (CBA) has gained popularkity as a testing modality. This assessment offers several advantages over paper based assessment (PBA) testing. The objective of this study was to find out residents' perception of this method of assessment. Methods : The post graduate residents of Dow University of Health Sciences in the field of Surgery, Medicine, Gynecology and Obstetrics experienced their first formative Computer-based assessment (CBA) in year 2013.Immediately after formative CBA, an anonymous paper based questionnaire was distributed amongst the residents and response was sought for their self-perceived computer usage competence before starting residency, perceptions regarding CBA method and to determine their preference for PBA or CBA in future assessment preferences. ⋯ Resident's perception for CBA is good and they recommend its use in future assessment as well. However, to take maximal advantage of this technology, faculty should be trained to develop questions not only with text and pictures but with audio and video support.
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Purulent pericarditis is a collection of purulent effusion in the pericardial space. It has become a rare entity with the increased availability and use of antibiotics. In contrast to pleural empyema, there are few data regarding the biochemical parameters of purulent pericardial effusion to aid diagnosis. Therefore, in this study, we have evaluated the diagnostic utility of biochemical tests in patients with purulent pericarditis. ⋯ Biochemical tests are useful guideline when assessing the pericardial effusions. However, these tests should be interpreted with the clinical and operative findings.
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Objective : To determine the relations between human papilloma viruses type 16 and type 18 infection and the expression of p53 protein in invasive ductal carcinoma. Methods : We detected the expression of HPV 16/18 DNA and p53 protein in invasive ductal carcinoma in 45 cases, breast fibroadenoma in 20 cases and normal breast tissues in 20 cases. ⋯ The expression of HPV16/18 DNA was significantly correlated with the expression of p53 protein (p<0.05). Conclusion : Both HPV16/18 infection and p53 mutation participate the occurrence and progress of invasive ductal carcinoma, and HPV 16/18 infection may be the major factor to cause p53 mutation.