S. Duangmano, Panida Kulawong, Puwadon Lawapakull, Panida Pongpunyayuen, Saowanit Chairatanapiwong
Background: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) remains the most widely used screening test for monitoring the course of infections, inflammatory diseases, and some types of cancer. Proficiency Testing (PT) programs are unavailable in Thailand for ESR. Objective: This study aimed to develop and initiate the PT program to improve testing quality through evaluation and analysis of the laboratory test results for ESR. Materials and methods: The PT program for ESR was established at the AMS CMU EQA Unit by the ISO/IEC17043:2010 requirements. The unit produced and sent the ESR control materials to participants for laboratory analysis; the test results were returned to the unit. The PT program was carried out in two cycles per year, with two samples in each cycle. The performance of each laboratory was assessed using robust Z score and performance score. Results: ESR control materials presented with satisfactory homogeneity and stability according to ISO 13528: 2015. One hundred and four laboratories were enrolled in the PT program. Of these laboratories, 96 (92.3%) returned their data: 40 (42.7%) used the modified Westergren method, 29 (29.2%), 14 (15.7%), and 13 (12.4%) used Microsed, Mixrate, and other methods, respectively. Satisfactory and questionable performance was obtained in 82/96 (85.4.%) and 8/96 (8.3%), respectively. Unsatisfactory performance was noted at 6/96 (6.3%). The level of excellent performance was achieved by 82 (approx. 85%) of these laboratories. Two main types of errors found from analyzing the received data were (i) specimen processing and (ii) incorrect identification of the analytical method. Conclusion: Our results indicate that the advantage of participation in the PT program for ESR is that the laboratories can monitor and investigate the source of laboratory errors. Therefore, the PT program for ESR testing should become an integral part of the quality assurance system in the laboratory.
{"title":"Development and implementation of the external quality assessment program for erythrocyte sedimentation rate in hematology laboratories in Thailand","authors":"S. Duangmano, Panida Kulawong, Puwadon Lawapakull, Panida Pongpunyayuen, Saowanit Chairatanapiwong","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.039","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.039","url":null,"abstract":"Background: The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) remains the most widely used screening test for monitoring the course of infections, inflammatory diseases, and some types of cancer. Proficiency Testing (PT) programs are unavailable in Thailand for ESR. Objective: This study aimed to develop and initiate the PT program to improve testing quality through evaluation and analysis of the laboratory test results for ESR. Materials and methods: The PT program for ESR was established at the AMS CMU EQA Unit by the ISO/IEC17043:2010 requirements. The unit produced and sent the ESR control materials to participants for laboratory analysis; the test results were returned to the unit. The PT program was carried out in two cycles per year, with two samples in each cycle. The performance of each laboratory was assessed using robust Z score and performance score. Results: ESR control materials presented with satisfactory homogeneity and stability according to ISO 13528: 2015. One hundred and four laboratories were enrolled in the PT program. Of these laboratories, 96 (92.3%) returned their data: 40 (42.7%) used the modified Westergren method, 29 (29.2%), 14 (15.7%), and 13 (12.4%) used Microsed, Mixrate, and other methods, respectively. Satisfactory and questionable performance was obtained in 82/96 (85.4.%) and 8/96 (8.3%), respectively. Unsatisfactory performance was noted at 6/96 (6.3%). The level of excellent performance was achieved by 82 (approx. 85%) of these laboratories. Two main types of errors found from analyzing the received data were (i) specimen processing and (ii) incorrect identification of the analytical method. Conclusion: Our results indicate that the advantage of participation in the PT program for ESR is that the laboratories can monitor and investigate the source of laboratory errors. Therefore, the PT program for ESR testing should become an integral part of the quality assurance system in the laboratory.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"35 9","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141014025","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Chalermchai Nilsuwankhosit, Jeamjai Jeeraumporn, S. Dechongkit, K. Thadanipon
Background: A voice evaluation is an important first step in analyzing voice symptoms and determining appropriate treatment plans. The phonation quotient is a valid aerodynamic parameter in voice evaluations which is an indirect source of information for evaluating the valve function of the vocal folds of patients with voice disorders, especially patients with voice disorders caused by tumors of the vocal folds which is the most common cause in the patients with voice disorders. Objective: The present study aims to determine and compare the phonation quotient between patients with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and normal adults between 20-80 years of age. Materials and methods: The participants comprised 40 adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and 40 with normal voices. All participants’ voices were evaluated in the Speech Clinic at Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok. The phonation quotient (PQ) was calculated by the ratio of vital capacity (VC) to the maximum phonation time (MPT). VC and MPT were measured using a phonatory aerodynamic system (PAS). Results: The results of the present study indicated that the mean value of the PQ of adults with normal voices was 122.60 cc/sec (SD=16.36). The mean value of the PQ of adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions was 292.08 cc/ sec (SD=97.14). The mean value of the PQ in the group with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions was significantly more significant than the mean value of the PQ in the group with normal voice. Conclusion: The significant difference between the phonation quotient of adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and adults with normal voice was that the PQ might be an indicator for indirect evaluation of the airflow leakage related to the efficiency of vocal fold movement during phonation. The PQ can be the optional voice measurement for monitoring and analyzing the outcomes of voice therapy.
{"title":"A comparison of the phonation quotient between patients with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and normal adults 20-80 years of age","authors":"Chalermchai Nilsuwankhosit, Jeamjai Jeeraumporn, S. Dechongkit, K. Thadanipon","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.031","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.031","url":null,"abstract":"Background: A voice evaluation is an important first step in analyzing voice symptoms and determining appropriate treatment plans. The phonation quotient is a valid aerodynamic parameter in voice evaluations which is an indirect source of information for evaluating the valve function of the vocal folds of patients with voice disorders, especially patients with voice disorders caused by tumors of the vocal folds which is the most common cause in the patients with voice disorders. Objective: The present study aims to determine and compare the phonation quotient between patients with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and normal adults between 20-80 years of age. Materials and methods: The participants comprised 40 adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and 40 with normal voices. All participants’ voices were evaluated in the Speech Clinic at Ramathibodi Hospital, Bangkok. The phonation quotient (PQ) was calculated by the ratio of vital capacity (VC) to the maximum phonation time (MPT). VC and MPT were measured using a phonatory aerodynamic system (PAS). Results: The results of the present study indicated that the mean value of the PQ of adults with normal voices was 122.60 cc/sec (SD=16.36). The mean value of the PQ of adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions was 292.08 cc/ sec (SD=97.14). The mean value of the PQ in the group with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions was significantly more significant than the mean value of the PQ in the group with normal voice. Conclusion: The significant difference between the phonation quotient of adults with voice disorders caused by benign vocal fold lesions and adults with normal voice was that the PQ might be an indicator for indirect evaluation of the airflow leakage related to the efficiency of vocal fold movement during phonation. The PQ can be the optional voice measurement for monitoring and analyzing the outcomes of voice therapy.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"17 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141014527","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Previous studies have shown that muscle force control during submaximal isometric contractions is associated with the ability of dynamic balance to a greater extent than static balance in healthy adults. However, the effect of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) on balance abilities of athletes with high dynamicsport, which are most popular in Thailand, needs to be addressed. Objective: To determine static and balance abilities of high dynamic-sport athletes at different levels of MVC. Materials and methods: Three groups of high dynamic-sport athletes at different levels of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), were voluntarily recruited using a sports matrix classification. Outcome measures comprised the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). Correlations between BESS and SEBT and confounding variables comprised of performance time of the Mcgill core endurance tests (Core), single-leg sit-to-stand (STS) test, and flexibility were investigated using Pearson’s correlation. After controlling for Core and STS, a factorial analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine group differences in SEBT and BESS variables. Results: Athletes with high- and low- MVC had significantly different reaching distances in all SEBT directions (all, p<0.05). Significant differences between the high- and the moderate- MVC groups were observed in anterior and lateral directions (p<0.05). A significant difference between the moderate- and the low MVC groups was found in the medial direction (p<0.05). After controlling for Core and STS, the observed group differences disappeared, except in the posterolateral reaching distance between the high- and the low-MVC groups (p<0.05). A significant difference between the high- and the low-MVC groups was only observed in the total foam BESS scores with tandem stance (p<0.05) and then disappeared after adjusting for Core and STS (all, p>0.05). Conclusion: The observed differences in all SEBT directions among groups and the difference in the total BESS scores between the high- and the low- MVC, which were observed only in challenged conditions i.e., tandem-foam stance, suggested that dynamic, but not static balance performance of athletes with high dynamicsport appears to be associated with the magnitude of MVC. Core and STS, but not flexibility, are considered significant contributions to their balance performance.
{"title":"Balance abilities in high dynamic-sport athletes with different maximal voluntary contraction","authors":"Pornpimol Konkeaw, Sainatee Pratanaphon","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.033","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.033","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Previous studies have shown that muscle force control during submaximal isometric contractions is associated with the ability of dynamic balance to a greater extent than static balance in healthy adults. However, the effect of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) on balance abilities of athletes with high dynamicsport, which are most popular in Thailand, needs to be addressed. Objective: To determine static and balance abilities of high dynamic-sport athletes at different levels of MVC. Materials and methods: Three groups of high dynamic-sport athletes at different levels of maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), were voluntarily recruited using a sports matrix classification. Outcome measures comprised the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) and the Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). Correlations between BESS and SEBT and confounding variables comprised of performance time of the Mcgill core endurance tests (Core), single-leg sit-to-stand (STS) test, and flexibility were investigated using Pearson’s correlation. After controlling for Core and STS, a factorial analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was used to determine group differences in SEBT and BESS variables. Results: Athletes with high- and low- MVC had significantly different reaching distances in all SEBT directions (all, p<0.05). Significant differences between the high- and the moderate- MVC groups were observed in anterior and lateral directions (p<0.05). A significant difference between the moderate- and the low MVC groups was found in the medial direction (p<0.05). After controlling for Core and STS, the observed group differences disappeared, except in the posterolateral reaching distance between the high- and the low-MVC groups (p<0.05). A significant difference between the high- and the low-MVC groups was only observed in the total foam BESS scores with tandem stance (p<0.05) and then disappeared after adjusting for Core and STS (all, p>0.05). Conclusion: The observed differences in all SEBT directions among groups and the difference in the total BESS scores between the high- and the low- MVC, which were observed only in challenged conditions i.e., tandem-foam stance, suggested that dynamic, but not static balance performance of athletes with high dynamicsport appears to be associated with the magnitude of MVC. Core and STS, but not flexibility, are considered significant contributions to their balance performance.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"122 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141013316","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Glioma is the most common brain tumor in adult patients and requires accurate treatment. The delineation of tumor boundaries must be accurate and precise, which is crucial for treatment planning. Currently, delineating boundaries for tumors is a tedious, time-consuming task and may be prone to human error among oncologists. Therefore, artificial intelligence plays a vital role in reducing these problems. Objective: This study aims to find a relationship between improving image enhancement and evaluating the performance of deep learning models for segmenting glioma image data on brain MRI images. Materials and methods: The BraTs2023 dataset was used in this study. The image dataset was converted from three dimensions to two dimensions and then subjected to pre-processing via four image enhancement techniques, including contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE), gamma correction (GC), non-local mean filter (NLMF), and median and Wiener filter (MWF). Subsequently, it was evaluated for structural similarity index (SSIM) and mean squared error. The deep learning segmentation model was created using the U-Net architecture and assessed for dice similarity coefficient (DSC), accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Jaccard index for tumor segmentation. Results: The performance of enhanced image results for CLAHE, GC, NLMF, and MWF techniques shows SSIM values of 0.912, 0.905, 0.999, and 0.911, respectively. The dice similarity coefficient (DSC) for segmentation without image enhancement was 0.817. The DSC of segmentation for CLAHE, GC, NLMF, and MWF techniques were 0.818, 0.812, 0.820, and 0.797, respectively. Conclusion: The enhanced image technique could affect the performance of tumor segmentation. by the enhanced image for use in a trained model may increase or decrease performance depending on the chosen image enhancement technique and the parameters determined by each method.
{"title":"A comparative study of pre-processing methods to improve glioma segmentation performance in brain MRI using deep learning","authors":"Kasatapad Naknaem, Titipong Kaewlek","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.035","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.035","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Glioma is the most common brain tumor in adult patients and requires accurate treatment. The delineation of tumor boundaries must be accurate and precise, which is crucial for treatment planning. Currently, delineating boundaries for tumors is a tedious, time-consuming task and may be prone to human error among oncologists. Therefore, artificial intelligence plays a vital role in reducing these problems. Objective: This study aims to find a relationship between improving image enhancement and evaluating the performance of deep learning models for segmenting glioma image data on brain MRI images. Materials and methods: The BraTs2023 dataset was used in this study. The image dataset was converted from three dimensions to two dimensions and then subjected to pre-processing via four image enhancement techniques, including contrast-limited adaptive histogram equalization (CLAHE), gamma correction (GC), non-local mean filter (NLMF), and median and Wiener filter (MWF). Subsequently, it was evaluated for structural similarity index (SSIM) and mean squared error. The deep learning segmentation model was created using the U-Net architecture and assessed for dice similarity coefficient (DSC), accuracy, precision, recall, F1-score, and Jaccard index for tumor segmentation. Results: The performance of enhanced image results for CLAHE, GC, NLMF, and MWF techniques shows SSIM values of 0.912, 0.905, 0.999, and 0.911, respectively. The dice similarity coefficient (DSC) for segmentation without image enhancement was 0.817. The DSC of segmentation for CLAHE, GC, NLMF, and MWF techniques were 0.818, 0.812, 0.820, and 0.797, respectively. Conclusion: The enhanced image technique could affect the performance of tumor segmentation. by the enhanced image for use in a trained model may increase or decrease performance depending on the chosen image enhancement technique and the parameters determined by each method.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"8 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141013931","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
B. Prathanee, Ampika Rattanapitak, Tanyaratch Sampanthawong, Kalyanee Makarabhirom
Background: Cleft lip and cleft palate are the most common birth defects. Children with cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CP±L) face a vary of challenges, depending on the type and severity of the cleft including speech difficulty, dental problems, feeding difficulty, ear infections and hearing loss. Articulation error is the most common residual defect in children with cleft palate with or without cleft lip. Objective: To compare the numbers of pre- and post- articulation errors after using the Model of Speech Therapy by Volunteers (STV) for children with CP±L. Materials and methods: 9 children, aged range 6; 4-14; 2 years old, were included in this study and completely participated in the study. Pre- and post-articulation tests by Myanmar Articulation, Resonation, Nasal Emission and Nasal Turbulence Test were assessed at Mahamuni Monastery, and Thiriyadana Guha Pone Htoon Shan Monastery, Tachileik, Myanmar. STV is composed of a 3-day speech camp (1st month), 3 times 1-day site visits for complicated cases (2nd, 6th, and 10th months) and 3 times of 1-day follow-up speech camps (4th, 8th, and 12th months), Phonological approaches, traditional strategies, and specific techniques for speech correction in children with CP±L were taught to speech volunteers (SVs) and caregivers. Homework was assigned to SVs and caregivers. SVs provided a session of 45-minute speech correction every week. Caregivers practiced 5 sessions of 30 minutes in speech exercises /weeks at home. Results: STV revealed significant reductions in the numbers of articulation errors including articulation screening test [median difference: MD=6 (95% confident interval: CI=5.2-9.2)], and Myanmar articulation standard test at both word and sentence levels; [MD=8 (95% CI=6.5-10.8) and MD=5 (95% CI=4.2-8.3), respectively]. Conclusion: STV significantly decreased a number of articulation errors in children with CP±L of Myanmar, a professional lacking area, and could be applied in any area that has a similar situation. The result was a primary study, the further research should enroll more participants for generalization.
{"title":"Speech services by speech volunteers for children with cleft lip and palate in professional lacking area: Pilot study","authors":"B. Prathanee, Ampika Rattanapitak, Tanyaratch Sampanthawong, Kalyanee Makarabhirom","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.024","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.024","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Cleft lip and cleft palate are the most common birth defects. Children with cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CP±L) face a vary of challenges, depending on the type and severity of the cleft including speech difficulty, dental problems, feeding difficulty, ear infections and hearing loss. Articulation error is the most common residual defect in children with cleft palate with or without cleft lip. Objective: To compare the numbers of pre- and post- articulation errors after using the Model of Speech Therapy by Volunteers (STV) for children with CP±L. Materials and methods: 9 children, aged range 6; 4-14; 2 years old, were included in this study and completely participated in the study. Pre- and post-articulation tests by Myanmar Articulation, Resonation, Nasal Emission and Nasal Turbulence Test were assessed at Mahamuni Monastery, and Thiriyadana Guha Pone Htoon Shan Monastery, Tachileik, Myanmar. STV is composed of a 3-day speech camp (1st month), 3 times 1-day site visits for complicated cases (2nd, 6th, and 10th months) and 3 times of 1-day follow-up speech camps (4th, 8th, and 12th months), Phonological approaches, traditional strategies, and specific techniques for speech correction in children with CP±L were taught to speech volunteers (SVs) and caregivers. Homework was assigned to SVs and caregivers. SVs provided a session of 45-minute speech correction every week. Caregivers practiced 5 sessions of 30 minutes in speech exercises /weeks at home. Results: STV revealed significant reductions in the numbers of articulation errors including articulation screening test [median difference: MD=6 (95% confident interval: CI=5.2-9.2)], and Myanmar articulation standard test at both word and sentence levels; [MD=8 (95% CI=6.5-10.8) and MD=5 (95% CI=4.2-8.3), respectively]. Conclusion: STV significantly decreased a number of articulation errors in children with CP±L of Myanmar, a professional lacking area, and could be applied in any area that has a similar situation. The result was a primary study, the further research should enroll more participants for generalization.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"91 2","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-05-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"141014656","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Benjamaporn Hancharoenkul, Peanchai Khamwong, Ubon Pirunsan, Leonard Joseph
Background: The prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal pain (WMSP) among poultry slaughterhouse workers (PSW) has been reported in the shoulder, arm, and hand due to the involvement of repetitive and forceful upper limb movements. An intervention program is needed to reduce upper limb pain and improve upper limb functions among PSW. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of workplace intervention programs on musculoskeletal pain, upper limb functions, and work ability among PSW. Materials and methods: A total of 48 participants (21 males and 27 females) who met the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study. The participants were allocated into two groups: The workplace intervention group (WIG, N=24; 10 males; 14 females) and the control group (CG, N=24; 11 males; 13 females). The WIG performed the exercise training with elastic resistance bands (ERB) and stretching exercises for eight weeks, and the CG did not perform any activity. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), shoulder reach flexibility test, active range of motion (AROM), the disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (KKU-DASH), and Thai Work Ability Index (Thai WAI) were used as outcome evaluations. The two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) with repeated measures (group x time) were used for statistical analyses, and the statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Approximately 79.1% (N=19) of the participants in WIG reported significantly decreased pain intensity of upper limb 3.06 (0.83 to -5.4) in the right side (p<0.01) and 1.96 (1.6 to -5.6) in the left side (p<0.001) after the 8-week intervention. Meanwhile, shoulder flexibility in WIG significantly increased (p<0.001) to around 3.55 cm. (0.67 to 8.20) on the right side and 5.61 cm. (2.0 to 10.67) on the left side. For AROM in WIG, neck flexion, lateral neck flexion, neck rotation, and left shoulder flexion significantly increased (p<0.05), as well as KKU-DASH and Thai WAI scores (p<0.001). There was no significant difference within-group in all variables in CG. Conclusion: The workplace intervention program significantly reduced upper limb pain and increased neck movement and shoulder flexion among PSW. The training programs also improved work ability and reduced disability with upper extremity musculoskeletal conditions among PSW.
{"title":"The effects of workplace intervention programs to manage work-related musculoskeletal pain among poultry slaughterhouse workers: A randomized controlled trial","authors":"Benjamaporn Hancharoenkul, Peanchai Khamwong, Ubon Pirunsan, Leonard Joseph","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.002","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.002","url":null,"abstract":"Background: The prevalence rate of work-related musculoskeletal pain (WMSP) among poultry slaughterhouse workers (PSW) has been reported in the shoulder, arm, and hand due to the involvement of repetitive and forceful upper limb movements. An intervention program is needed to reduce upper limb pain and improve upper limb functions among PSW. Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of workplace intervention programs on musculoskeletal pain, upper limb functions, and work ability among PSW. Materials and methods: A total of 48 participants (21 males and 27 females) who met the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study. The participants were allocated into two groups: The workplace intervention group (WIG, N=24; 10 males; 14 females) and the control group (CG, N=24; 11 males; 13 females). The WIG performed the exercise training with elastic resistance bands (ERB) and stretching exercises for eight weeks, and the CG did not perform any activity. The Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), shoulder reach flexibility test, active range of motion (AROM), the disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (KKU-DASH), and Thai Work Ability Index (Thai WAI) were used as outcome evaluations. The two-way analyses of variance (ANOVAs) with repeated measures (group x time) were used for statistical analyses, and the statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: Approximately 79.1% (N=19) of the participants in WIG reported significantly decreased pain intensity of upper limb 3.06 (0.83 to -5.4) in the right side (p<0.01) and 1.96 (1.6 to -5.6) in the left side (p<0.001) after the 8-week intervention. Meanwhile, shoulder flexibility in WIG significantly increased (p<0.001) to around 3.55 cm. (0.67 to 8.20) on the right side and 5.61 cm. (2.0 to 10.67) on the left side. For AROM in WIG, neck flexion, lateral neck flexion, neck rotation, and left shoulder flexion significantly increased (p<0.05), as well as KKU-DASH and Thai WAI scores (p<0.001). There was no significant difference within-group in all variables in CG. Conclusion: The workplace intervention program significantly reduced upper limb pain and increased neck movement and shoulder flexion among PSW. The training programs also improved work ability and reduced disability with upper extremity musculoskeletal conditions among PSW.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"54 1","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139118076","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jitapa Chawawisuttikool, Chatchai Phirawatthakul, Warintun Thomchaita, Chatchai Tieachanpan, O. Prasartwuth
Background: To prevent running related injuries and return to sport activities, monitoring the running dynamic parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time and vertical oscillation) especially outdoor running is crucial. Previous studies investigated the reliability of these parameters in laboratory settings. However, the nature of outdoor runs is different (curve, uphill, other runners, etc.) and challenging in terms of equipment (simple) and environments (grass, asphalt, rubber, etc.). Therefore, the reliability of these parameters using a fitness watch synced with accelerometer needed to be investigated. Objective: To investigate the reliability of running parameters measured using fitness watches and accelerometers during outdoor runs. Materials and methods: 30 healthy volunteers (age 25.8±9.6 years, height 167.2±9.3 cm, weight 62.4±14.2 kg, and body mass index 22.2±3.8 kg/m2) participated in the study. They wore a fitness watch and attached a synced accelerometer at their pants. They completed 2 running laps (800 meters each) at their comfortable speeds. Resting periods were provided between laps. To control the speed for the second lap, the watch was set the maximum and minimum speed and set vibration and sound alarm mode. Running parameters include cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time. Results: The reliability of the four running parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation), indicated by the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC (3,k)) was 0.94, 0.97, 0.98 and 0.99, respectively. Very high reliability values were confirmed. Conclusion: Using a fitness watch synced with an accelerometer during outdoor runs, running dynamic parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation) illustrated very high levels of reliability.
{"title":"Reliability of running parameters using fitness watches synced with accelerometers during outdoor runs","authors":"Jitapa Chawawisuttikool, Chatchai Phirawatthakul, Warintun Thomchaita, Chatchai Tieachanpan, O. Prasartwuth","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.019","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.019","url":null,"abstract":"Background: To prevent running related injuries and return to sport activities, monitoring the running dynamic parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time and vertical oscillation) especially outdoor running is crucial. Previous studies investigated the reliability of these parameters in laboratory settings. However, the nature of outdoor runs is different (curve, uphill, other runners, etc.) and challenging in terms of equipment (simple) and environments (grass, asphalt, rubber, etc.). Therefore, the reliability of these parameters using a fitness watch synced with accelerometer needed to be investigated. Objective: To investigate the reliability of running parameters measured using fitness watches and accelerometers during outdoor runs. Materials and methods: 30 healthy volunteers (age 25.8±9.6 years, height 167.2±9.3 cm, weight 62.4±14.2 kg, and body mass index 22.2±3.8 kg/m2) participated in the study. They wore a fitness watch and attached a synced accelerometer at their pants. They completed 2 running laps (800 meters each) at their comfortable speeds. Resting periods were provided between laps. To control the speed for the second lap, the watch was set the maximum and minimum speed and set vibration and sound alarm mode. Running parameters include cadence, stride length, vertical oscillation, and ground contact time. Results: The reliability of the four running parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation), indicated by the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC (3,k)) was 0.94, 0.97, 0.98 and 0.99, respectively. Very high reliability values were confirmed. Conclusion: Using a fitness watch synced with an accelerometer during outdoor runs, running dynamic parameters (cadence, stride length, ground contact time, and vertical oscillation) illustrated very high levels of reliability.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"51 10","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139118284","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Background: Cleft palate is a congenital disability affecting the palate’s structure and function, which may lead to delayed speech and language development and communication disorders. There is a shortage of speech therapists in Thailand. Therefore, developing a manual for speech and language treatment for the parents of children with a cleft palate would be an essential early intervention that parents could perform. Objectives: This research aimed to develop a speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old and evaluate the manual’s effectiveness, satisfaction, and feedback. Materials and methods: This research was divided into Phase 1, which involved developing a speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old and assessing its validity and reliability. Phase 2 tested the manual’s effectiveness by conducting a three-month of 16 participants, who were divided into two groups: A control group without the manual and an experimental group with the manual and phase 3 data analysis. Results: The content validity of the manual and satisfaction of the questionnaires were found to have a content validity index of 0.87 and 0.92, respectively. The total language and speech development scores before and after participating between groups found a statistically significant difference. After participating, the number of the experimental group who passed the 90th percentile of language development was higher than the control group. The language between the children and parents showed that the experimental group displayed more communication skills than the control group. Conclusion: The speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old could stimulate the language and speech development of the experimental group more effectively than the control group that did not receive the manual.
{"title":"The Development of manual for speech and language treatment for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old","authors":"Pechcharat Jaiyong, Phuanjai Rattakorn, Supaporn Chinchai","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.007","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.007","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Cleft palate is a congenital disability affecting the palate’s structure and function, which may lead to delayed speech and language development and communication disorders. There is a shortage of speech therapists in Thailand. Therefore, developing a manual for speech and language treatment for the parents of children with a cleft palate would be an essential early intervention that parents could perform. Objectives: This research aimed to develop a speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old and evaluate the manual’s effectiveness, satisfaction, and feedback. Materials and methods: This research was divided into Phase 1, which involved developing a speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old and assessing its validity and reliability. Phase 2 tested the manual’s effectiveness by conducting a three-month of 16 participants, who were divided into two groups: A control group without the manual and an experimental group with the manual and phase 3 data analysis. Results: The content validity of the manual and satisfaction of the questionnaires were found to have a content validity index of 0.87 and 0.92, respectively. The total language and speech development scores before and after participating between groups found a statistically significant difference. After participating, the number of the experimental group who passed the 90th percentile of language development was higher than the control group. The language between the children and parents showed that the experimental group displayed more communication skills than the control group. Conclusion: The speech and language treatment manual for parents of children with cleft palate ages 0-3 years old could stimulate the language and speech development of the experimental group more effectively than the control group that did not receive the manual.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"50 3","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139121984","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
T. Tatu, Wachirawit Tondee, Pornchai Khamtong, Lamplimas Tangphan, Jidapa Jaitiang
Background: Four university students of northern Thai descent were found to be HbE/βO-thalassemia. However, they all had a mild form of this disease, categorized as Non-Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia. Objectives: To analyze involvement of types of β-globin mutations, α-thalassemia, and XmnI-Gγ site in mild clinical symptoms observed in four Thai non-transfusion dependent HbE/βO-thalassemia cases. Materials and methods: EDTA blood samples were collected from the patients and their family members after signing the informed consent. Automated complete blood count with blood smear examination, hemoglobin typing, molecular analysis for α and β-globin mutations, β-globin gene haplotypes, and XmnI-Gγ site were performed on all blood samples. In addition, nucleotide sequencing of β-globin gene and globin chain separation were performed for patient#3 and their parents. Results: The first three patients had hemoglobin levels ranging 8.5-11.2 g/dL, while the fourth patient had hemoglobin level of 6.7 g/dL. The first and fourth patients were compound heterozygote for βE (HBB:c.79G>A) and β17 (HBB:c.52A>T) alleles with typical hemoglobin pattern of EF. The second patient was compound heterozygote for βE and β41/42 (HBB:c.126_129delCTTT) alleles also with typical hemoglobin pattern of EF. The third patient was compound heterozygote of βE and βIVS1-1(HBB:c.92+1G>T), however, with atypical hemoglobin pattern of EE. Family analysis found co-inheritance of Hb Constant Spring (HBA2:c.427T>C) and the XmnI-Gγ site (T at rs7482144) in the first two patients, of SEA-αO thalassemia (NG_000006.1:g.26264_45564del19301) and XmnI-Gγ site in the third patient, and of only XmnI-Gγ site in the fourth patient. Conclusion: These family studies proved the fact that co-existence of SEA-αO thalassemia and Hb Constant Spring in HbE/βO-thalassemia could lead to mild clinical severity. Minimal effect of XmnI-Gγ site on clinical symptoms of this disease was emphasized. This information should be useful in prenatal diagnosis of HbE/β-thalassemia.
{"title":"Non-transfusion dependent HbE/βO-thalassemia as the results of co-existent SEA-αO thalassemia, Hb Constant Spring, and XmnI-Gγ site: Thai family studies","authors":"T. Tatu, Wachirawit Tondee, Pornchai Khamtong, Lamplimas Tangphan, Jidapa Jaitiang","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.006","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.006","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Four university students of northern Thai descent were found to be HbE/βO-thalassemia. However, they all had a mild form of this disease, categorized as Non-Transfusion Dependent Thalassemia. Objectives: To analyze involvement of types of β-globin mutations, α-thalassemia, and XmnI-Gγ site in mild clinical symptoms observed in four Thai non-transfusion dependent HbE/βO-thalassemia cases. Materials and methods: EDTA blood samples were collected from the patients and their family members after signing the informed consent. Automated complete blood count with blood smear examination, hemoglobin typing, molecular analysis for α and β-globin mutations, β-globin gene haplotypes, and XmnI-Gγ site were performed on all blood samples. In addition, nucleotide sequencing of β-globin gene and globin chain separation were performed for patient#3 and their parents. Results: The first three patients had hemoglobin levels ranging 8.5-11.2 g/dL, while the fourth patient had hemoglobin level of 6.7 g/dL. The first and fourth patients were compound heterozygote for βE (HBB:c.79G>A) and β17 (HBB:c.52A>T) alleles with typical hemoglobin pattern of EF. The second patient was compound heterozygote for βE and β41/42 (HBB:c.126_129delCTTT) alleles also with typical hemoglobin pattern of EF. The third patient was compound heterozygote of βE and βIVS1-1(HBB:c.92+1G>T), however, with atypical hemoglobin pattern of EE. Family analysis found co-inheritance of Hb Constant Spring (HBA2:c.427T>C) and the XmnI-Gγ site (T at rs7482144) in the first two patients, of SEA-αO thalassemia (NG_000006.1:g.26264_45564del19301) and XmnI-Gγ site in the third patient, and of only XmnI-Gγ site in the fourth patient. Conclusion: These family studies proved the fact that co-existence of SEA-αO thalassemia and Hb Constant Spring in HbE/βO-thalassemia could lead to mild clinical severity. Minimal effect of XmnI-Gγ site on clinical symptoms of this disease was emphasized. This information should be useful in prenatal diagnosis of HbE/β-thalassemia.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"50 8","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139122026","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Jureemas Wilaklang, Kalyanee Makarabhirom, S. Thayansin, Phurich Praneetvatakul
Background: Unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment (UVFMI) causes dysphonia and/or dysphagia, which can significantly affect a patient’s ability to communicate and perform regular daily life activities as well as the quality of life. Voice therapy offers a less invasive and more preferential method for patients. However, there are limitations concerning the integration of multiple therapy approaches. Voice therapy exercises with clear methodologies are required to plan and conduct therapy systematically, and frequency would be required for each exercise. Therefore, this study was conducted by applying the protocols of voice therapy in adult patients with unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment. Objective: This feasibility study is a prospective cohort, pre-post single arm, designed to determine whether the voice therapy protocol (VTP) can enhance voice quality in adult patients with unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment (UVFMI) in a pilot study. Materials and methods: All subjects received 12 sessions of voice therapy protocol, with each session conducted weekly for 45 minutes. The voice therapy protocol applied in this study consisted of vocal hygiene education, abdominal breathing exercises, vocal function exercises, pushing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, and applied resonance voice therapy. The outcomes of protocols for voice therapy were measured before and after treatment using subjective voice assessments (GIRBAS scale) and objective voice assessments (Dr. Speech program and electroglottography-EGG). Results: Cases 2, 7, 10, 11, and 13 improved after receiving VTP. As for other participants, there are still some voice parameters that need to be monitored. Overall, it was found that the participants’ voice parameters were changing within the acceptable range, with MPT, jitter, shimmer, and HNR values significantly different (p<0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that the voice therapy protocol was a worthwhile alternative and could be used to develop further treatment guidelines for adult patients with UVFMI at a speech clinic.
{"title":"Efficacy of the voice therapy protocol (VTP) for adult patients with unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment; a feasibility study","authors":"Jureemas Wilaklang, Kalyanee Makarabhirom, S. Thayansin, Phurich Praneetvatakul","doi":"10.12982/jams.2024.017","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.12982/jams.2024.017","url":null,"abstract":"Background: Unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment (UVFMI) causes dysphonia and/or dysphagia, which can significantly affect a patient’s ability to communicate and perform regular daily life activities as well as the quality of life. Voice therapy offers a less invasive and more preferential method for patients. However, there are limitations concerning the integration of multiple therapy approaches. Voice therapy exercises with clear methodologies are required to plan and conduct therapy systematically, and frequency would be required for each exercise. Therefore, this study was conducted by applying the protocols of voice therapy in adult patients with unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment. Objective: This feasibility study is a prospective cohort, pre-post single arm, designed to determine whether the voice therapy protocol (VTP) can enhance voice quality in adult patients with unilateral vocal fold mobility impairment (UVFMI) in a pilot study. Materials and methods: All subjects received 12 sessions of voice therapy protocol, with each session conducted weekly for 45 minutes. The voice therapy protocol applied in this study consisted of vocal hygiene education, abdominal breathing exercises, vocal function exercises, pushing exercises, muscle relaxation exercises, and applied resonance voice therapy. The outcomes of protocols for voice therapy were measured before and after treatment using subjective voice assessments (GIRBAS scale) and objective voice assessments (Dr. Speech program and electroglottography-EGG). Results: Cases 2, 7, 10, 11, and 13 improved after receiving VTP. As for other participants, there are still some voice parameters that need to be monitored. Overall, it was found that the participants’ voice parameters were changing within the acceptable range, with MPT, jitter, shimmer, and HNR values significantly different (p<0.05). Conclusion: The findings of this study indicated that the voice therapy protocol was a worthwhile alternative and could be used to develop further treatment guidelines for adult patients with UVFMI at a speech clinic.","PeriodicalId":298884,"journal":{"name":"Journal of Associated Medical Sciences","volume":"53 5","pages":""},"PeriodicalIF":0.0,"publicationDate":"2024-01-04","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"139122131","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":0,"RegionCategory":"","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
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