Psychosexual dysfunction in male patients with cannabis dependence and synthetic cannabinoid dependence.

OBJECTIVE: There are contradicting reports regarding the relationship between cannabis use and male sexual functions with almost no data about synthetic cannabinoids (SC) and its effect on male sexual functions. This study investigates psychological concerns related to male sexual functions among cannabis and SC users. The research aims to assess different sexual functions and aspects of sexual psychopathology in cannabis and SCs dependent men compared to controls. METHOD: Thirty male patients with cannabis dependence, thirty male patients with SCs dependence and thirty matched controls from the outpatient clinic of Kasr Al Ainy hospital, Egypt, were assessed using Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV TR Axis I Disorders (SCID-I), International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), and Sexuality scale. RESULTS: The means of IIEF questionnaire in the cannabis and SC group were significant lower than the means of the control group (P < .001) except the orgasmic function in cannabis group (P = .052). In the SCs group, sexual depression was higher and preoccupation lower than the cannabis (P < .020; P < .003, respectively) and control groups (P < .001; P < .001, respectively). The duration and dose of intake of cannabis and SCs correlated significant with sexual esteem, sexual preoccupation and all domains of IIEF. CONCLUSION: Cannabis and SC dependence were associated with lower erectile function, sexual desire, intercourse satisfaction and overall satisfaction, and lower orgasmic functions in the SC group than controls. Both groups showed higher sexual depression, lower sexual esteem and sexual preoccupation than controls. SC has a higher negative impact on male sexual functions and psychopathology than cannabis.

Perspectives and experiences of leisure-time physical activity in adults with stage 4 cancer: a qualitative interpretive-description study.

PURPOSE: Leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) can be beneficial for individuals with advanced cancer, but little is known on how to tailor rehabilitation strategies targeting LTPA in cancer care. Our objective was to explore perspectives and experiences of LTPA in people with stage 4 cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Guided by interpretive-description methodology, our qualitative study consisted of individual, semi-structured interviews with 20 Canadian adults diagnosed with stage 4 cancer. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed inductively. RESULTS: The participants' median age was 51.5 (range, 35-73) years. Cancer types included breast (n = 12), lung (n = 4), and other (n = 4). Participants highlighted their experiences of LTPA as diverse and complex, impacted by individual and cancer-related factors. They emphasized being intentional with LTPA through activity planning and modification. LTPA participation was linked to physical well-being, social connections, and meanings of accomplishment and loss. Many participants desired personalized support related to LTPA, that is integrated, interprofessional, and accessible in cancer care. CONCLUSION: The experiences of LTPA for people with stage 4 cancer are personal and connected to health and psychosocial meanings. Further efforts in rehabilitation are needed to address the challenges faced by people with advanced cancer and optimize safe, meaningful participation in LTPA.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONExperiences of leisure-time physical activity in individuals with stage 4 cancer are personal and linked to health benefits and psychosocial meanings.Activity participation frequently involves consideration of cancer-related symptoms, management of risks, and intentional planning and modification of activities.Trained rehabilitation professionals integrated in cancer care may be well suited to support people with stage 4 cancer through personalized activity recommendations.This research can help inform future clinical, research, and educational efforts in rehabilitation aimed at targeting physical activity in individuals with advanced cancer.

Diagnostic Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Evaluation of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tear.

The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the most generally injured one of the major knee ligaments. These injuries plague both athletes and non-athletes. This cross-sectional and comprehensive study was conducted in the Department of Radiology and Imaging collaborating with Department of Orthopedics of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh, completed from January 2014 to December 2015. The study evaluated the role of MRI in the diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament injury of knee joint, keeping Arthroscopy as standard, compared the MRI and arthroscopic findings to determine accuracy, sensitivity and predictivity of MRI in the diagnosis of ACL injury in knee joint. For this purpose, a total of 50 patients having clinical suspicion of ACL injury in knee joint were enrolled in this study to perform MRI and Arthroscopy. MRI was done in all these patients. Clinically suspected but MRI diagnosed as no ACL injury, patients who were not willing to undergo arthroscopy examination and patient who were not fit for arthroscopy were excluded from the study. More than half (52.0%) of the patients were in 3rd decade and male to female ratio was 3.5:1. Less than one fourth (24.0%) of the patients were service holder. Forty two percent patients had duration of suffering for 2 weeks. Most 49(98.2%) patients had history of trauma, 45(90.0%) had pain in Knee joint, 24(48.0%) had difficulty in walking, 19(38.0%) had swelling in Knee joint and 13(26.0%) had restricted range of motion. Anterior drawer test was 37(74.0%) and Lachman test 16(32.0%). Loss of normal contour of ACL was found in 50.0%. Signal change of ACL in PD and T2W1 was found 42(84.0%) patients, and thickened ACL in 33(66.0%) patients. In MRI diagnosis tear was present in 80.0% of the patients. ACL tear diagnosed by MRI among the patients, 20(40.0%) had partial tear and 20(40.0%) had complete tear. In arthroscopy diagnosis 38(76.0%) had tear present. ACL tear diagnosed by arthroscopy of the patients 15(30.0%) had partial tear and 23(46.0%) had complete tear. Majority 20(40.0%) patients had medial meniscus injury, 15(30.0%) had lateral meniscus injury, 11(22.0%) had PCL injury, 4(8.0%) had lateral co-lateral ligament injury and 2(4.0%) had medial co-lateral ligament injury. In MRI diagnosis of anterior cruciate ligament tear, 37 cases were true positive, three cases false positive, one case false negative and nine cases was true negative. The validity of MRI diagnosis evaluation for anterior cruciate ligament tear was 97.4% sensitivity, 75.0% specificity, 92.0% accuracy, 92.5% positive predictive values and 90.0% negative predictive values.

Relationship of Exercise Capacity, Physical Function, and Frailty Measures With Clinical Outcomes and Healthcare Utilization in Lung Transplantation: A Scoping Review.

Measures of exercise capacity, frailty, and physical function are commonly used in lung transplant candidates and recipients to evaluate their physical limitations and the effects of exercise training and to select candidates for transplantation. It is unclear how these measures are related to clinical outcomes and healthcare utilization before and after lung transplantation. The purpose of this scoping review was to describe how measures of exercise capacity, physical function, and frailty are related to pre- and posttransplant outcomes. Methods: We considered studies of any design that included performance-based tests of exercise capacity, physical function, and frailty in adult lung transplant candidates or recipients. Outcomes of interest were clinical outcomes (eg, mortality, quality of life) and healthcare utilization. Results: Seventy-two articles met the inclusion criteria. The 6-min walk test (6MWT) was shown to be related to mortality on the waiting list with different distance values as cutoffs points. There were inconsistent results regarding the relationship of the 6MWT with other clinical outcomes. Few studies have examined the relationship between the cardiopulmonary exercise test or the short physical performance battery and clinical outcomes, although some studies have shown relationship with survival posttransplant and quality of life. Few studies examined the relationship between the tests of interest and healthcare utilization' and the results were inconsistent. Conclusions: Except for the relationship between the 6MWT and mortality on the waiting list, there is limited evidence regarding the relationship of performance-based measures of exercise capacity, frailty, and physical function with clinical outcomes or healthcare utilization.

Canadian oncology physiotherapists' perspectives of physical activity in people with advanced cancer: a mixed-methods study.

BACKGROUND: Individuals with advanced cancer can benefit from physical activity (PA), but face barriers to PA participation. Physiotherapists can be well-positioned to support this patient population. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to describe the perspectives, practices, knowledge, and skills of oncology physiotherapists related to PA in people with advanced cancer. METHODS: In this mixed-methods study, we recruited Canadian physiotherapists with current or recent clinical experience with advanced cancer. Phase I consisted of an online survey about views toward PA in advanced cancer and activity-related recommendations and concerns for two case scenarios. Phase II involved individual, semi-structured interviews about perspectives related to working with advanced cancer. RESULTS: Sixty-two physiotherapists participated in the survey, of which 13 participated in interviews. Most respondents (> 85%) agreed or strongly agreed PA is important and safe for individuals with advanced cancer. Case responses highlighted cancer-related considerations (e.g. bone metastases) tailored activity recommendations, and patient-centered, interprofessional care. Interview themes included: 1) situating PA within individually meaningful goals; 2) tailored strategies to promote PA; 3) overarching roles in functional optimization and symptom management; and 4) generalized lack of awareness regarding physiotherapy. CONCLUSION: Our findings indicate Canadian oncology physiotherapists describe knowledge of the safety and importance of PA, as well as key considerations in advanced cancer. Moreover, they highlight the importance of a patient-centered approach to support this population, particularly in facilitating safe and meaningful PA, as well as optimizing function and alleviating symptom burden. Further efforts are needed to investigate the development and integration of physiotherapy within cancer care.

Cortical Anoxic Spreading Depolarization During Cardiac Arrest is Associated with Remote Effects on Peripheral Blood Pressure and Postresuscitation Neurological Outcome.

BACKGROUND: Spreading depolarizations (SDs) are self-propagating waves of neuronal and glial depolarizations often seen in neurological conditions in both humans and animal models. Because SD is thought to worsen neurological injury, the role of SD in a variety of cerebral insults has garnered significant investigation. Anoxic SD is a type of SD that occurs because of anoxia or asphyxia. Although asphyxia leading to a severe drop in blood pressure may affect cerebral hemodynamics and is widely known to cause anoxic SD, the effect of anoxic SD on peripheral blood pressure in the extremities has not been investigated. This relationship is especially important to understand for conditions such as circulatory shock and cardiac arrest that directly affect both peripheral and cerebral perfusion in addition to producing anoxic SD in the brain. METHODS: In this study, we used a rat model of asphyxial cardiac arrest to investigate the role of anoxic SD on cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism, peripheral blood pressure, and the relationship between these variables in 8- to 12-week-old male rats. We incorporated a multimodal monitoring platform measuring cortical direct current simultaneously with optical imaging. RESULTS: We found that during anoxic SD, there is decoupling of peripheral blood pressure from cerebral blood flow and metabolism. We also observed that anoxic SD may modify cerebrovascular resistance. Furthermore, shorter time difference between anoxic SDs measured at different locations in the same rat was associated with better neurological outcome on the basis of the recovery of electrocorticography activity (bursting) immediately post resuscitation and the neurological deficit scale score 24 h post resuscitation. CONCLUSIONS: To our knowledge, this is the first study to quantify the relationship between peripheral blood pressure, cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism, and neurological outcome in anoxic SD. These results indicate that the characteristics of SD may not be limited to cerebral hemodynamics and metabolism but rather may also encompass changes in peripheral blood flow, possibly through a brain-heart connection, providing new insights into the role of anoxic SD in global ischemia and recovery.

Silent Sinus Syndrome: A Case Report.

To describe a case of silent sinus syndrome in the perspective of imaging studies, on 2 January 2020 we present this case of a 26-year-old Bangladeshi man with unilateral right facial asymmetry and no sino-nasal symptoms. He was referred to the Ophthalmology Department with complain of right palpebral ptosis and facial asymmetry for 7 months. On physical examination, painless enophthalmos and hypo globus of the right eye was seen. The computed tomography scan of the paranasal air sinuses showed opacification of the right maxillary sinus along with retraction of the walls of the sinus. Regardless of the clinical doubt, the conclusion can only be given by imaging studies, radiologist play a key role here.

Traduction franco-canadienne de l'Assessment of Systematic Reviews Revised (AMSTAR 2) : validation transculturelle et fidélité interjuges.

Objective: Produce a French-Canadian translation of AMSTAR 2, affirm its content validity, and examine interrater reliability. Methods: Based on Vallerand's methodological approach, we conducted forward and parallel inverse-translations. Subsequently, an expert panel evaluated the translations to create a preliminary experimental French-Canadian version. A second expert panel examined this version and proposed additional modifications. Twenty future health professionals then rated the second experimental version for ambiguity on a scale (from 1 to 7). The principal co-investigators then reviewed the problematic elements and proposed a pre-official version. To ascertain content validity, a final back-translation was conducted resulting in the official version. Four judges evaluated 13 systematic reviews using the official French-Canadian version of AMSTAR 2. The Kappa coefficient was used to evaluate interrater reliability. Results: This rigorous adaptation enabled the development of a Franco-Canadian version of AMSTAR 2. Its application demonstrated low ambiguity (mean 1.15; SD 0.26) as well as good overall interrater reliability (total κ > 0.64) across all items. Conclusion: The French-Canadian version of AMSTAR 2 can now support francophone clinicians, educators, and managers in Canada as they undertake evidence-based practice.

Brain-Derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) plasma level increases in patients with resistant schizophrenia treated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to assess the effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) on plasma BDNF levels in patients with resistant schizophrenia. METHODS: It was a cohort study that included 60 patients with resistant schizophrenia fulfilling the DSM-5 criteria of schizophrenia and APA criteria of resistant schizophrenia. They were divided into two groups, followed over 4 weeks, and compared to their baseline assessment. Group (A) included 45 patients who received 4-10 sessions of ECT while Group (B) included 15 patients who received the usual treatment with antipsychotics without ECT. The assessment included the severity of psychotic symptoms assessed by the Positive and Negative Symptom Scale (PANSS) in addition to plasma BDNF level. RESULTS: Patients in Group (A) had an increased level of BDNF after treatment with a statistically significant difference in comparison to their baseline BDNF level (P = 0.027). Meanwhile, patients in group (B) showed a non-significant increase in BDNF. Patients in both groups improved significantly in all PANSS subscales after treatment. CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that plasma BDNF levels in patients with resistant schizophrenia increase after electroconvulsive therapy in association with clinical improvement.Key pointsBDNF increases after ECT treatment of resistant schizophrenia.BDNF is not correlated with the severity of psychotic symptomsPatients treated with ECT showed a better response.

Correlation between HRCT Findings of Symptomatic COVID-19 Patient with RT-PCR Test in a Tertiary Hospital of Bangladesh.

The COVID-19 pandemic has turned into a global calamity and affected millions of lives around the world. Even though the vaccination efforts have started, they are yet to have an effective impact on the lower to middle-income countries. Early detection and isolation are still the best way to control the spread of the virus. The standard practice for detecting COVID-19 is the RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) test but this test has a high probability of producing false-negative results plus lack of availability at all the time due to shortage of kit. Since COVID-19 is a respiratory disease affecting the lungs and the imaging patterns caused by COVID-19 can be observed in chest HRCT (High Resolution Computed Tomography) scans. As a result, HRCT can be used as an alternative diagnostic modality for any suspected cases of COVID-19. In this cross-sectional study was carried out in the Department of Radiology and Imaging, BSMMU, Dhaka, Bangladesh from May 12, 2020 to August 10, 2020. Chest HRCT scans of 284 suspected patients irrespective of age and sex who had done RT-PCR test either positive or negative test result having symptoms suggesting COVID pneumonia were enrolled in this study. Patients who had not done RT-PCR and who were not willing to do HRCT chest were excluded. According to the study, ground glass opacity is the most common feature and found in 89.44% of patients. The other predominant features were including consolidation, crazy paving, fibrotic density and vascular enlargement. The diagnostic performance of the CT scan was also evaluated using the RT-PCR test result as the gold standard and the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of the CT scan diagnosis were found to be 83.2%, 50% and 79.9% respectively. The severity of the five lung lobes has also been studied. The right middle lobe and the left upper lobe seemed to be in more severe condition for most of the patients compared to the other lung lobes.

Differentiation of Solitary Mass Lesion of Brain using MR Spectroscopy with Histopathological Correlation.

Different types of solitary brain lesions and also tumefactive demyelinating lesions exhibit many features on CT and MRI that are characteristics of malignancy and surgical biopsy is often performed in suspected tumour. Proton MR Spectroscopy has been used to differentiate different type of these solitary brain lesions. Our purpose is to determine whether MR spectroscopy is able to improve preoperative diagnostic accuracy in case of intracranial solitary tumors. This cross sectional study was carried out among 44 patients who were referred to Radiology and Imaging Department by Neurosurgery and Neuro-medicine department of BSMMU, Dhaka, Bangladesh as MRI suspected glioma for MRS scan during the period of 24 months. MRS was performed in 44 patients with suspected glioma. Metabolic ratio of choline: Cr, NAA: Cr, Lactate: Cr was calculated in short and intermediated echo times (TES). Tumors were subdivided into neoplasm and inflammatory mass. Neoplasm was again subdivided into glioblastoma multiforme and solitary metastasis. The patients were followed up and surgical resection biopsy reports were collected. MRS findings and histopathological findings were then correlated. In this study 68.18% of patients were diagnosed as Glioblastoma multiform by MRS and also in histopathology 18.18%. Patient was diagnosed as solitary metastasis in MRS and 20.45%. Patient was diagnosed as solitary metastasis by histopathology and 13.64%. Patient was diagnosed as abscess in MRS while in histopathology 11.37% patients were diagnosed as abscess.

Feasibility of a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial Examining a Multidimensional Intervention in Women with Gynecological Cancer at Risk of Lymphedema.

There is limited knowledge on non-invasive lymphedema risk-reduction strategies for women with gynecological cancer. Understanding factors influencing the feasibility of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) can guide future research. Our objectives are to report on the design and feasibility of a pilot RCT examining a tailored multidimensional intervention in women treated for gynecological cancer at risk of lymphedema and to explore the preliminary effectiveness of the intervention on lymphedema incidence at 12 months. In this pilot single-blinded, parallel-group, multi-centre RCT, women with newly diagnosed gynecological cancer were randomized to receive post-operative compression stockings and individualized exercise education (intervention group: IG) or education on lymphedema risk-reduction alone (control group: CG). Rates of recruitment, retention and assessment completion were recorded. Intervention safety and feasibility were tracked by monitoring adverse events and adherence. Clinical outcomes were evaluated over 12 months: presence of lymphedema, circumferential and volume measures, body composition and quality of life. Fifty-one women were recruited and 36 received the assigned intervention. Rates of recruitment and 12-month retention were 47% and 78%, respectively. Two participants experienced post-operative cellulitis, prior to intervention delivery. At three and six months post-operatively, 67% and 63% of the IG used compression ≥42 h/week, while 56% engaged in ≥150 weekly minutes of moderate-vigorous exercise. The cumulative incidence of lymphedema at 12 months was 31% in the CG and 31.9% in the IG (p = 0.88). In affected participants, lymphedema developed after a median time of 3.2 months (range, 2.7-5.9) in the CG vs. 8.8 months (range, 2.9-11.8) in the IG. Conducting research trials exploring lymphedema risk-reduction strategies in gynecological cancer is feasible but challenging. A tailored intervention of compression and exercise is safe and feasible in this population and may delay the onset of lymphedema. Further research is warranted to establish the role of these strategies in reducing the risk of lymphedema for the gynecological cancer population.

A scoping review of studies exploring leisure-time physical activity in adults diagnosed with advanced cancer.

OBJECTIVES: Despite improving survival rates, people with advanced cancer face several physical and psychosocial concerns. Leisure-time physical activity (LPA) has been found to be beneficial after cancer diagnosis, but little is known about the current state of research exploring LPA in advanced cancer. Our objectives were to (a) map the literature examining LPA in people with advanced cancer, (b) report on the terms used to describe the advanced cancer population within the literature, and (c) examine how the concept of LPA is operationalized within the literature. METHOD: Our scoping review followed Arksey and O'Malley's methodological framework. We performed a search of 11 electronic databases and supplementary sources (February 2018; database search updated January 2020). Two reviewers independently reviewed and selected articles according to the inclusion criteria: English-language journal articles on original primary research studies exploring LPA in adults diagnosed with advanced cancer. Descriptive and thematic analyses were performed. RESULTS: Ninety-two articles met our criteria. Most included studies were published in the last decade (80%) and used quantitative methods (77%). Many study populations included mixed (40%), breast (21%), or lung (17%) cancers. Stages 3-4 or metastatic disease were frequently indicated to describe study populations (77%). Several studies (68%) described LPA programs or interventions. Of these, 78% involved structured aerobic/resistance exercise, while 16% explored other LPA types. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS: This review demonstrates a recent surge in research exploring LPA in advanced cancer, particularly studies examining exercise interventions with traditional quantitative methods. There remains insufficient knowledge about patient experiences and perceptions toward LPA. Moreover, little is known about other leisure activities (e.g., Tai Chi, dance, and sports) for this population. To optimize the benefits of LPA in people with advanced cancer, research is needed to address the gaps in the current literature and to develop personalized, evidence-based supportive care strategies in cancer care.

Examining Obesity in Lymphedema: A Retrospective Study of 178 New Patients with Suspected Lymphedema at a Canadian Hospital-Based Clinic.

Purpose: Physiotherapists have an important role to play in the early detection and treatment of lymphedema, a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by excess interstitial protein-rich fluid, which is estimated to affect more than one million Canadians. Obesity has been identified both as an important cause of and as a risk factor for developing lymphedema of various aetiologies. Little is currently known about obesity in Canadians affected by lymphedema. The objective of this study was to report on the prevalence of overweight and obesity in a Canadian lymphedema clinic population and the relationships among BMI; demographic, medical, and lymphedema characteristics; and cellulitis history. Method: We conducted a retrospective electronic record review of the clinical data collected from new patients evaluated for suspected lymphedema at a specialized Canadian hospital-based clinic over a 2-year period. We used descriptive analyses to characterize the sample and one-way analysis of variance and χ2 tests for comparative analyses. Results: Of the 178 patients whose records were reviewed, 36.5% were classified as overweight and 39.3% as obese. Patients with non-cancer diagnoses had a higher mean BMI than those with cancer-related diagnoses (p < 0.001). A higher BMI was associated with a longer time since lymphedema onset (p < 0.001), bilateral lymphedema (p = 0.010), and history of cellulitis (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Obesity is prevalent in the Canadian population with lymphedema and is associated with delayed referral and increased cellulitis rates. Early detection and tailored management strategies are needed to address obesity in patients with lymphedema and the complexities associated with these two related conditions.

Objectif : les physiothérapeutes ont un rôle important à jouer pour favoriser le dépistage précoce et le traitement du lymphœdème, un trouble inflammatoire chronique caractérisé par un excès de liquide interstitiel riche en protéines qui toucherait plus d'un million de Canadiens. L'obésité est considérée à la fois comme une cause importante et un facteur de risque de lymphœdème de diverses étiologies. On ne sait pas grand-chose sur l'obésité des Canadiens atteints de lymphœdème. La présente étude visait à rendre compte de la prévalence de surpoids et d'obésité dans la population de la clinique canadienne de lymphœdème des chercheurs et des liens entre l'indice de masse corporelle (IMC), les données démographiques, les caractéristiques médicales et lymphœdémateuses et les antécédents de cellulite. Méthodologie : les chercheurs ont procédé à une analyse rétrospective des données cliniques tirées de dossiers électroniques de nouveaux patients évalués à cause d'une présomption de lymphœdème dans une clinique hospitalière canadienne spécialisée, et ce, sur une période de deux ans. Ils ont utilisé des analyses descriptives pour caractériser l'échantillon et procédé aux évaluations comparatives à l'aide des analyses de variance unidirectionnelle et des tests du chi carré. Résultats : des 178 patients dont le dossier a été examiné, 36,5 % étaient classés comme en surpoids et 39,3 % comme obèses. Les patients dont le diagnostic n'était pas lié au cancer présentaient un IMC moyen plus élevé que ceux dont le diagnostic était lié au cancer (p < 0,001). Un IMC plus élevé chez les patients s'associait à une période plus longue depuis l'apparition de lymphœdème (p < 0,001), à un lymphœdème bilatéral (p = 0,010) et à des antécédents de cellulite (p < 0,001). Conclusion : L'obésité est prévalente dans la population canadienne atteinte de lymphœdème et s'associe à un délai avant l'envoi en consultation et à une augmentation des cellulites. Un dépistage précoce et des stratégies de prise en charge adaptées s'imposent pour agir sur l'obésité chez les patients atteints de lymphœdème et sur les complexités liées à ces deux troubles connexes.

Diagnostic Evaluation of Isotropic 3D MRCP Images in the Diagnosis of Cholangiocarcinoma.

This is a cross sectional study to establish that Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) could be accepted as the most effective imaging modality for the diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Cholangiocarcinoma is the most common malignant tumor of the bile duct. It is much less common than hepatocellular carcinoma, accounting for 5-30% of all hepatic malignancies. Clinically suspected patients with obstructive jaundice due to cholangiocarcinoma were referred to the Department of Radiology and Imaging, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Dhaka, Bangladesh. The study was carried out in 60 patients, of which 38(63%) were male and 22(37%) were female. Out of 60 cases 56 cases were truly diagnosed by MRCP, 4 were normal, among these 1 case was diagnosed as cholangiocarcinoma as compared with histopathology. Forty four (44) patients (73.2%) of the patients were in sixth decade of life. The overall sensitivity and specificity were found to be 98.2% and 75%. The diagnostic accuracy was 96.7% & positive predictive value was about 98%.

Methodological quality of clinical practice guidelines with physical activity recommendations for people diagnosed with cancer: A systematic critical appraisal using the AGREE II tool.

Evidence suggests physical activity (PA) is beneficial for people diagnosed with cancer. Clinical practice guidelines provide specific recommendations based on available research and are useful in informing evidence-based practice and guiding future research. Little is known on the extent and quality of guidelines on PA targeted to the cancer population. The objectives of this systematic review were to: 1) identify recent clinical practice guidelines including PA or exercise recommendations for people with cancer and 2) critically appraise the methodological quality of the included guidelines. A systematic search of four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and PEDro) and supplementary sources was conducted. Two reviewers independently scanned articles and selected guidelines for inclusion according to the following criteria: published in English, developed or updated in previous five years (January 2012-June 2017), published in peer-reviewed scientific journals, including ≥1 specific recommendation on PA or exercise, and relevant to adults diagnosed with cancer. Subsequently, two trained assessors independently appraised the included guidelines using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II tool. Average scores for six domains (scope and purpose; stakeholder involvement; rigour of development; clarity of presentation; applicability; and editorial independence) and overall quality were calculated. From the literature search, we identified 29 articles, representing 20 sets of guidelines meeting the selection criteria. The guidelines were applicable to the following cancer populations: general (n = 9), breast (n = 5), lung (n = 2), colorectal (n = 1), head and neck (n = 1), myeloma (n = 1) and prostate (n = 1). The guidelines were generally of moderate methodological quality (mean AGREE II overall quality score: 4.6/7, range 2.5-6). The area of lowest quality was in the domain of applicability (mean AGREE II quality domain score: 40%), whereas the strongest domains were related to scope and purpose (81%) and clarity of presentation (77%). Although there are limitations in the primary research informing the recommendations, guidelines of acceptable quality exist to direct stakeholders on targeted PA recommendations for a range of cancer populations. Improvement is needed in the applicability of guidelines to enhance their relevance and clinical use. Health professionals can play an important role in supporting people with cancer throughout the disease trajectory and benefit from access to well-developed and appropriate materials to interpret research knowledge on effective rehabilitation strategies, including PA.

Self-Management Strategies for Malignant Lymphedema: A Case Report with 1-Year and 4-Year Follow-Up Data.

Purpose: Malignant lymphedema is an accumulation of interstitial fluid caused by tumour infiltration or compression of lymphatic vessels. Our objective is to describe self-management strategies for malignant lymphedema using a case report. Client Description: A 50-year-old woman with advanced breast cancer was referred to our centre with a 3-month history of unexplained left-arm edema, subsequently diagnosed as malignant lymphedema caused by tumour compression of the axillary lymph nodes. Intervention: She undertook a physiotherapist-guided, modified lymphedema treatment programme, with self-management interventions including self-bandaging and exercise. Limb volumes and leisure exercise levels were measured over a 1-year period. Data were collected from her follow-up visit 4 years post-diagnosis of lymphedema. Measures and Outcome: Within the first month, the patient's excess limb volume reduced from 26.8% to 5.9% and, 1 year later, remained stable at 3%. Over time, her exercise levels increased (1-year follow-up: 33.5 MET-hours per week). At 4 years, her excess limb volume was 9.7%, and exercise levels were at 36 MET-hours per week. Implications: A woman with moderate malignant arm lymphedema caused by advanced breast cancer successfully adhered to a guided self-management programme and benefited from reduced swelling and improved self-reported physical function in the long term. This case provides oncology health professionals with knowledge about self-management options for malignant lymphedema.

Objectif : le lymphœdème malin désigne une accumulation de liquide interstitiel causé par l'infiltration d'une tumeur ou la compression des vaisseaux lymphatiques. Les auteurs utilisent un rapport de cas pour décrire des stratégies d'autogestion du lymphœdème malin. Description de la cliente : une femme de 50 ans atteinte d'un cancer du sein avancé a été dirigée vers le centre des auteurs parce qu'elle présentait un œdème inexpliqué du bras gauche depuis trois mois. Cet œdème a ensuite été diagnostiqué comme un lymphœdème causé par la compression d'une tumeur sur les ganglions axillaires. Intervention : la patiente a entrepris un traitement modifié du lymphœdème, orienté par des physiothérapeutes et comportant des interventions d'autogestion, y compris les changements de bandages et des exercices. Les auteurs ont mesuré le volume des membres et le taux d'exercices de loisir sur une période d'un an. Ils ont recueilli les données jusqu'au rendez-vous de suivi quatre ans après le diagnostic de lymphœdème. Mesures et résultats : au cours du premier mois, le volume excédentaire du membre de la patiente est passé de 26,8 % à 5,9 % et était demeuré stable un an plus tard, à 3 %. Au fil du temps le taux d'exercice de la patiente a augmenté (suivi d'un an : 33,5 équivalents métaboliques de l'effort [MET]-heures par semaine). Au bout de quatre ans, le volume excédentaire de son bras était de 9,7 %, et son taux d'exercice, de 36 MET-heures par semaine. Conséquences : une femme présentant un lymphœdème malin modéré du bras causé par un cancer du sein avancé a suivi un programme d'autogestion orienté et observé une diminution de son œdème et une amélioration autodéclarée de sa fonction physique à long terme. Ce cas fournit aux professionnels en oncologie de des connaissances sur les possibilités d'autogestion du lymphœdème malin.

The use of social media among health professionals to facilitate chronic disease self-management with their patients: A systematic review.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this systematic review was to summarize the evidence pertaining to the use of social media by health professionals to facilitate chronic disease self-management with their patients. METHODS: A systematic approach was used to retrieve and extract relevant data. A total of 5163 citations were identified, of which seven unique studies met criteria for inclusion; one was a randomized controlled trial, two were prospective cohort studies, and four were qualitative studies. The following social media platforms were evaluated: discussion forums (6 studies) and collaborative project (1 study). RESULTS: The available evidence suggests that health professionals perceived discussion forums and collaborative projects to be useful social media platforms to facilitate chronic disease self-management with patients. No relevant evidence was found regarding the use of other social media platforms. Most studies indicated positive findings regarding health professionals' intention to use discussion forums, while the one study that used a collaborative project also indicated positive findings with its perceived ease of use as health professionals felt that it was useful to facilitate chronic disease self-management with patients. Mixed findings were seen in regards to health professionals' perceived ease of use of discussion forums. The most common barrier to using social media platforms was the lack of time in health professionals' schedules. CONCLUSIONS: Discussion forums and collaborative projects appear to be promising resources for health professionals to assist their patients in self-managing their chronic conditions; however, further research comparing various social media platforms is needed.

A scoping review of studies exploring physical activity among adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer.

OBJECTIVE: Physical activity can improve health, functional capacity, and quality of life among children and adults diagnosed with cancer. Physical activity may also offer important benefits to adolescents and young adults diagnosed with cancer (AYAs). We conducted a scoping review to: determine the extent, range, and nature of published studies on physical activity among AYAs; identify knowledge gaps; and provide directions for future research. METHODS: We searched 4 electronic databases for published studies. Two authors independently scanned the titles, abstracts, and full-texts against inclusion criteria: original research with humans, published in an English-language peer-reviewed journal, ≥50% of participants were diagnosed with cancer between the ages of 15 and 39 years, and included at least 1 measure of physical activity behavior. Data were extracted from studies meeting these criteria and subsequently summarized narratively. RESULTS: Our search yielded 4729 articles; 32 met inclusion criteria. These included 18 cross-sectional and 4 longitudinal studies that explored descriptive (ie, sociodemographic or medical), physical, personal/psychological, social, other health behaviors, and/or other factors as antecedents or correlates of physical activity. The remaining 10 were intervention studies that focused on changing physical activity behavior or on testing the effects of physical activity. CONCLUSIONS: We can conclude that physical activity is not well researched among AYAs. More high-quality research adopting longitudinal or intervention study designs that incorporate a range of descriptive, physical, personal/psychological, social, and environmental measures are warranted to better inform the development of behavior change interventions as well as to establish the benefits of physical activity for AYAs.