Serial Procalcitonin Measurements for Determining Bacterial Infection and Mortality in Cirrhotic Patients with Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome.

Introduction: The utility of serial procalcitonin (PCT) measurements in cirrhotic patients with systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) is not well understood. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of serial PCT measurements for diagnosing bacterial infections and predicting 30-day mortality in this population.

Methods: We prospectively studied 120 cirrhotic patients with SIRS, 64.

Physical effects and cognitive function after exercising "Rue-si-dad-ton" (exercise using the posture of the hermit doing body contortion): a randomized controlled pilot trial.

Background: This study aims to preliminarily evaluate effect on physical properties of shoulder joints and cognitive function after practicing Rue-si-dad-ton, a Thai traditional exercise using the postures of the hermit doing body contortion which still lacks systematically conducted evidence-based regarding its benefits.

Material And Method: Thirty-seven participants who have routinely worked on computer at least 3 hours per day were recruited and randomized into intervention (n = 19) or control group (n = 18). Physical effect on shoulder joints was evaluated by measuring shoulder range of motion (ROM) and evaluating shoulder function with the American Shoulder & Elbow Surgeons Standardized Shoulder Assessment Form.