Diagnostic accuracy of B-scan in predicting retinoblastoma in children, taking Magnetic Resonance Imaging of orbits as gold standard.

The objective of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy of B-scan in predicting retinoblastoma (Rb) taking Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as a gold standard. A cross-sectional validation study was conducted in the Radiology Department of Fauji Foundation Hospital from May 20 to Nov 20, 2017. Children fulfilling the inclusion criteria were selected after informed consent and detailed history was taken for investigation of Rb. B-scan of both eyes was done using 7.5-10 MHz probe, followed by MRI of both eyes in the same patients using 1.5 Tesla MRI machine with the help of qualified MRI technicians. Data analysis was done by SPSS version 16.0. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of B-scan in prediction of Rb as compared to MRI was 90.45%, 82.28%, 90.54% and 90.28% respectively. The study concluded that diagnostic accuracy of B-scan as compared to MRI is substantial in Retinoblastoma.

Effects of McConnell taping combined with strengthening exercises of vastus medialis oblique in females with patellofemoral pain syndrome.

Objective of the study was to determine the effects of McConnell taping combined with strengthening exercises of vastus medialis oblique muscle in females with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrom. Females with Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome with an age group of 25-45 years having a less than 30/80 score on a Lower Extremity Functional Index (LEFI), anterior knee pain and painful/limited range of motion (ROM) at knee, were included in the study. A total of 51 subjects were randomly assigned into two groups. They were assigned a 30-40 minute per session for 5 days per week over a length of 2 weeks. Numeric Pain Rating Scale, Lower Extremity Functional Index and Goniometry tools were used to assess the measure of interest. These samples only comprised of females with a mean age of 36.04+7.35 years. After 2 weeks, significant improvement was recorded in the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) (p<0.001) and Lower Extremity Functional Index (LEFI) (p<0.001). Flexion range of motion of the knee also improved significantly. No statistically significant difference in extension range of the knee was noted in either groups as it was normal at base line.

Effects Of Cardiovascular Conditioning Exercises On Quality Of Life In Patients With Dilated Ardiomyopathy In Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is the most frequently diagnosed cardiomyopathy in Pakistan and patients have significant muscles dysfunction which affects their quality of life (QOL). Available evidence have supported the role of moderate intensity exercise for improving QOL but no such studies have been conducted in Pakistan so far. METHODS: A single blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted in two different hospitals of Rawalpindi from September 2016-February 2017. Both genders clinically stable DCM patients with ejection fraction <40% were selected through purposive non-probability sampling and randomized to Training group and Control group (n=30 each). Training group protocol included bicycling on lower limb ergometer 4days/week on alternate days for 8 weeks. Patients in control group received usual care. Patients were assessed thrice during 8-week protocol. The tools used included structured questionnaire with different standard scales like 6 Minute Walk Test, Modified Medical Research Council Scale, Modified Borg Scale and Minnesota Living with Heart Failure Questionnaire. Data was analysed on SPSS 21 software. RESULTS: Prior to conditioning in training group, 6 (21%) patients reported good and 23 (79%) have poor QOL whereas in control group 14 (56%) have good and 11 (44%) have poor QOL on MLHFQ score. After 8 weeks in training group, 28 (96%) patients reported excellent QOL and in control group, 11 (44%) reported good and 14(56%) have poor QOL on MLHFQ score. Between the groups analysis depicted highly significant p-values for QOL and New York Heart Association (NYHA) class (p<0.001). CONCLUSION: Supervised cardiac conditioning program significantly improves Quality of life and NYHA functional class in dilated cardiomyopathy.