Indirect determination of hemoglobin A2 reference intervals in Pakistani infants using data mining.

Background: Reference intervals (RIs) are crucial for distinguishing healthy from sick individuals and vary across age groups. Hemoglobinopathies are common in Pakistan, making the quantification of hemoglobin variants essential for screening. Direct RIs are established by measuring values from a healthy reference population, whereas indirect RIs, use statistical analysis of routine lab data to estimate values, making it feasible in settings where direct data is unavailable.

Pulmonary Function Testing in Healthy Infants in Rural Bangladesh: Feasibility Study.

Background: Infant pulmonary function testing (iPFT) in low- and middle-income countries is limited. We evaluated the early feasibility of iPFT in rural Bangladesh.

Methods: Experts established an iPFT laboratory at Zakiganj Upazila Health Complex in Sylhet, Bangladesh and trained staff.

Gonadal function and pathology in 17beta-HSD 3 and 5alpha-reductase deficiency.

Objective: 17β-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 3 deficiency (17β-HSDD) and 5α-reductase type 2 deficiency (5α-RD) are rare 46,XY differences of sex development (DSD). This study aims to enlarge the limited knowledge on long-term gonadal function and gonadal pathology in these conditions.

Design: Retrospective multicentre cohort study.

The Impact of Inferior Vena Cava Anomalies on Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Case Report.

Inferior vena cava (IVC) anomalies are rare congenital pathologies related to variations of agenesis, hypoplasia, or atresia, predisposing patients to thromboembolic events secondary to an alteration in venous drainage with resultant stasis. This is a case report of a 27-year-old male without significant medical history presenting for a fall after playing recreational basketball with associated pain and swelling in his left lower extremity. After his symptoms progressively worsened, he came to the emergency room for an evaluation where an ultrasound (US) of the extremity showed extensive deep vein thromboses (DVT).

Integrating portfolio and mentorship in competency-based medical education: a Middle East experience.

Within the context of competency-based medical education, portfolios and mentorship emerge as complementary interventions, each offering distinct perspectives and benefits. Together, these elements synergistically contribute to a holistic and effective approach to medical education, encompassing both the academic and personal development imperatives of students. However, this integration comes with several implementation challenges that must be anticipated and promptly addressed.