Rising mortality rates linked to type-2 diabetes and obesity in the United States: An observational analysis from 1999 to 2022.

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity are increasing in the United States. However, population-level data for mortality trends due to T2D and obesity are limited. This study aims to assess these death trends among adults in the United States categorized by sex, race, and geographical location.

The Management of Osteoporosis in Chronic Kidney Disease: A Review of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Approaches.

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has shown a growing association with osteoporosis, comprising part of the broader CKD-mineral and bone disorder (CKD-MBD). CKD-MBD is marked by alterations in calcium, phosphorus, parathyroid hormone (PTH), and vitamin D metabolism, significantly elevating fracture risk. While traditional osteoporosis treatments such as bisphosphonates, denosumab, and teriparatide have been adapted for CKD patients, recent innovations have introduced agents aimed at enhancing bone mass and reducing fracture incidence.

Analgesic efficacy and safety of erector spinae plane block versus serratus anterior plane block in breast surgery-a meta-analysis and systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Background: Mastectomy and breast-conserving surgery are key interventions for breast cancer, a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Many undergoing breast surgery experience postoperative pain compromising their functionality and quality of life. While multiple pain management strategies are available, evidence comparing the erector spinae (ESPB) and serratus anterior plane blocks (SAPB) for improving post-surgical pain management in breast cancer surgery patients is limited.

Bidirectional Prime Editing: Combining Precision with Versatility for Genome Editing.

Genome editing techniques have potential to revolutionize the field of life sciences. Several limitations associated with traditional gene editing techniques have been resolved with the development of prime editors that precisely edit the DNA without double-strand breaks (DSBs). To further improve the efficiency, several modified versions of prime editing (PE) system have been introduced.

Comparative Efficacy of Endoscopic Versus Open Surgical Techniques in the Management of Gastric Outlet Obstruction: A Systematic Review.

Gastric outlet obstruction (GOO) is a clinical condition that can arise from both benign and malignant causes, requiring effective management strategies to ensure optimal patient outcomes. Traditionally, open surgical techniques like gastrojejunostomy (GJ) have been the standard treatment, but recent advances in minimally invasive procedures, such as endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy (EUS-GE), offer alternative approaches with potentially reduced morbidity. This systematic review compared the efficacy, safety, and clinical outcomes of endoscopic versus open surgical techniques in managing GOO.

Gallbladder Polyp-An Incidental Finding of a High-grade B-cell Lymphoma: A Case Report.

Unlabelled: Introduction and importance: High-grade B-cell lymphoma (HGBCL) is a highly aggressive form of B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Lymphoma involvement of the gallbladder is rare, with a reported incidence of 0.1-0.

Outcomes of Gallbladder Drainage Techniques in Acute Cholecystitis: Percutaneous Versus Endoscopic Methods.

Acute cholecystitis, often caused by gallstones obstructing the cystic duct, is a potentially life-threatening condition that requires timely intervention. High-risk patients, particularly those with significant comorbidities, may not be suitable candidates for laparoscopic cholecystectomy, necessitating alternative drainage techniques such as percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) and endoscopic gallbladder drainage (EGD). This systematic review aims to compare the efficacy, safety, and outcomes of PC and EGD in managing acute cholecystitis in high-risk surgical patients.

Blurred vision: The ophthalmological effect of smog in Pakistan.

This article discusses the growing burden of smog in Pakistan, tracing its origins to vehicular emissions, industrial pollutants, and agricultural practices. It highlights current national initiatives and advocates for enhanced government interventions to mitigate smog's adverse effects on ocular health. It also emphasizes the need for collective action to safeguard ocular health amid rising smog pollution in Pakistan.

Mifepristone's Efficacy for Symptomatic Relief and Size Reduction in Uterine Fibroids: A 2023 Prospective Observational Study at Rabia Balkhi Hospital, Afghanistan.

Background Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are common benign tumors, affecting 70-80% of women by age 50, and can cause symptoms such as heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure, significantly impacting the quality of life. In severe cases, fibroids may lead to infertility or miscarriage, making their management a key healthcare challenge. Traditional treatments, including hysterectomy, may not be suitable for women wishing to preserve fertility or avoid surgery.

Zanubrutinib-Associated Recurrent Spontaneous Hemorrhagic Pleural Effusion in Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia: Case Report.

Zanubrutinib is an orally administered second-generation covalent inhibitor of Bruton tyrosine kinase that was recently approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and small lymphocytic leukemia. It has been associated with significant major and minor bleeding events, including intracranial and GI hemorrhage and hematuria, with or without concurrent antiplatelet or anticoagulation therapy. We report a case of a 65-year-old man with relapsing chronic lymphocytic leukemia.

Intravascular Ultrasound-Guided Versus Angiography-Guided Percutaneous Coronary Intervention: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Meta-Regression of Randomized Control Trials.

Background: Intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) guidance during percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) allows better assessment of coronary artery lesion characteristics than angiography alone. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to comprehensively synthesize the available evidence regarding the efficacy of IVUS guidance compared to angiography-guided PCI.

Methods: A comprehensive literature search of major bibliographic databases from inception until April 2024 was conducted to identify randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing IVUS-guided PCI versus angiography-guided PCI.

Acute Onset Budd-Chiari Syndrome in the Postpartum Period: A Case of Missed Diagnosis Leading to Rapid Deterioration.

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS), a rare hepatic vein obstruction condition, poses significant risks during gestation and the postpartum period. We present the case of a 30-year-old primigravida at 32 weeks gestation admitted with weakness and lethargy, which was diagnosed with impending uterine rupture, HELLP syndrome, and intrauterine fetal demise. An emergency cesarean section was performed, delivering a stillborn baby and uncovering 700 milliliters of blood clots in her abdominal cavity.

The diagnostic challenge of differentiating tumefactive multiple sclerosis (TMS) from other brain lesions: a case report and literature review on a rare subtype of MS.

Introduction And Importance: This case report is a clinical diagnosis walk through of a rare subtype of multiple sclerosis (MS). It gives an overview of how tumefactive multiple sclerosis (TMS) is systematically narrowed down as the definitive diagnosis.

Case Presentation: This 29-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department.

Efficacy and safety of the FGF19 analog aldafermin for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a GRADE assessed systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly concerning due to its rising prevalence. It encompasses conditions from simple steatosis to severe nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), posing risks such as fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma if untreated. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to assess aldafermin, an FGF19 analog, for efficacy and safety in NASH patients.

The Potential of Cannabis in Managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Its Future Perspective.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract mainly categorized as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The current management of IBD includes pharmacological, surgical, psychological, and complementary treatments, but cannabis effects are also becoming more popular as complementary therapies. Cannabinoids act on two G-protein coupled receptors, CB1 and CB2 located in the brain, enteric nervous system, gastrointestinal cells (epithelial cells), and immune cells.

A Comprehensive Case Report on Familial Multiple Lipomatosis.

Familial multiple lipomatosis (FML) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by the progressive development of encapsulated nodules predominantly on the trunk and extremities. Its genetic basis is linked to HMGA-2 gene over-expression. The condition is diagnosed via clinical history, ultrasound findings, and histological studies, and management mainly comprises surgical excision.

Factor XIII Deficiency Presenting With Duodenal Hematoma in a 3-Year-Old Female: A Comprehensive Radiological Assessment.

In the pediatric age group, FXIII deficiency can present as abnormal or delayed bleeding from the umbilical stump, soft tissue and subcutaneous bleeding, intracerebral hemorrhages, intraoral bleeding, and poor wound healing. This case report describes an atypical presentation of FXIII deficiency in a 3-year-old female who presented to the emergency department with complaints of abdominal pain and vomiting. She was managed conservatively under the care of the pediatric surgery team.

Efficacy and safety of resmetirom for the treatment of nonalcoholic steatohepatitis: a GRADE assessed systematic review and meta-analysis.

There are no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved treatment options for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) which is a prevailing disease that leads to fibrosis, cirrhosis, or hepatocellular carcinoma. Hence, this systematic review and meta-analysis aims to determine the efficacy and safety of resmetirom, the first FDA-approved drug, for the treatment of NASH. A Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation assessed systematic search of Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Scopus, and Google Scholar database was conducted from inception till 31 March 2024.