Publications by authors named "H Al Balushi"

Objectives The primary objective of this study is to describe and evaluate the diagnostic performance of the hyperdense right hemidiaphragm sign (HRHS) as a novel radiological indicator for diffuse fatty infiltration of the liver on non-enhanced CT (NECT) scans. This includes assessing its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value, and comparing these metrics with other established NECT signs. Methods This cross-sectional multicenter retrospective study included all patients over 12 years of age who underwent both abdominal MRI and NECT scans of the abdomen within a period not exceeding six months at two tertiary hospitals (The Royal Hospital and Armed Forces Hospital, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman) between January 2010 and December 2022.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Surgical site infections (SSIs) pose a significant clinical challenge, with heightened risks and severe consequences for diabetic patients undergoing surgical procedures. This systematic review aims to synthesize the current evidence on effective prevention strategies for mitigating SSI risk in this vulnerable population. From inception to March 2024, we comprehensively searched multiple electronic databases (PubMed, Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library, CINAHL) to identify relevant studies evaluating SSI prevention strategies in diabetic surgical patients.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Background: Inappropriate use of antibiotics is expected to increase during the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are limited data on COVID-19's long-term impact. We assessed the impact of COVID-19 on the quantity and quality of antibiotic use in Scotland.

Research Design And Methods: A segmented interrupted time series was applied to monthly dispensed antibiotics using prescription cost analysis data from March/2019 to March/2023.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Chronic pancreatitis (CP), an inflammatory disease characterized by irreversible pancreatic changes and progressive fibrosis, significantly impairs patients' quality of life. This systematic review aims to assess the efficacy of antioxidant therapy in enhancing the quality of life of CP patients. Focusing on the role of oxidative stress in CP pathogenesis, we explored several databases for studies evaluating the impact of antioxidant supplementation.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a formidable global health concern with a dire prognosis, highlighting the critical need for early detection strategies. This systematic review delves into the potential of salivary biomarkers as a non-invasive means for identifying PDAC at its incipient stages. Saliva's proximity to the circulatory system enables the detection of tumor-derived biomolecules, making it an ideal candidate for mass screening.

View Article and Find Full Text PDF