Prevalence and Predictors of Low Packed Cell Volume among Sickle Cell Disease Patients in Northwestern Nigeria
Yakubu Anas Ibrahim, Department of Psychiatry, Federal University Birnin-Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria.
MSI Journal of Medicine and Medical Research (MSIJMMR) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/18302638 | Page 01 to 12
Abstract
Background: Among Sickle cell disease (SCD) patients, the levels of Steady state packed cell volume (SSPCV) can reflect the extent of the anemia, and several factors have been linked with low SSPCV. However, in Northwestern Nigeria, the burden and the associated factors remained unexplored; therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of low SSPCV in this environment.
Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Hematology of Usmanu Danfodiyo University teaching UDUTH, Sokoto, among patients with sickle cell disease attending clinic visits. A total of 206 patients were recruited via systematic sampling. The SSPCV was assessed from routine clinical investigations and the case file. Statistical analysis was conducted with SPSS version 25.
Results: The mean steady-state packed cell Volume (SSPCV) of the respondents was 24.00±4.70%, and about one in two (45.6%) had a low SSPCV below 24%. There was a statistically significant association between a lower steady-state packed cell volume and lower socio-economic status, lower levels of education, participants from the Hausa/Fulani tribe, and hemoglobin S homozygosity (HBSS). However, only educational level and socio-economic status remained predictors of low SSPCV.
Conclusion: The burden of low SSPCV is substantial, with about half of the participants having low SSPCV. Low level of education and Socioeconomic disadvantage were identified as the main predictors. Therefore, there is a need for targeted social interventions as well as health education and community awareness to mitigate this burden.
Keywords: Sickle cell disease, Steady state, Packed cell volume, Nigeria, PCV.
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Vitiligo: Genetics and Psychological Approaches
Dr. Gülçin ITIRLI ASLAN, Ege Üniversitesi Tıp Fakültesi Tıbbi Genetik A.D.
MSI Journal of Medicine and Medical Research (MSIJMMR) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/18194374 | Page 01 to 46
Abstract
This study aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current research and applications related to the genetic basis and psychological effects of vitiligo. First, genomic studies used to understand the genetic structure of the disease, familial inheritance patterns, and etiological genetic modeling approaches are detailed. This allows for a better understanding of the genetic predisposition and hereditary pathways of vitiligo. At the same time, information regarding the psychosocial status and quality of life of patients and their families is also examined. The study also addresses the impact of psychological interventions and their integration into clinical practice, highlighting that the treatment process requires a multidimensional approach involving not only medical but also psychological support. Furthermore, by evaluating current limitations and future research areas, suggestions are made regarding how the subject may develop in subsequent stages. The primary aim of this review is to contribute to the development of a holistic approach to vitiligo management from both genetic and psychosocial perspectives.
Keywords: Vitiligo, Genetic Predisposition, Psychosocial Impact, Quality of Life, Etiological Modeling, Holistic Management
All articles published by MSIP are made immediately available worldwide under an open access license. No special permission is required to reuse all or part of any MSIP article, including figures and tables.
For articles published under a Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license, any part of the article may be reused for any purpose, including commercial use, provided that the original MSIP article is clearly cited.
A Sample Protocol for Using Tai Chi and Qigong to Treat Back Pain: An Application of Artificial Intelligence to Traditional Chinese Medicine
Robert W. McGee, Fayetteville State University.
MSI Journal of Medicine and Medical Research (MSIJMMR) | DOI https://zenodo.org/records/18160479 | Page 01 to 18
Abstract
Background: Chronic low back pain (CLBP) is a major global cause of disability. Tai Chi and Qigong have demonstrated moderate-to-large effects on pain and function in CLBP, yet detailed, evidence-based, patient-tolerant protocols remain scarce.
Objective: To utilize artificial intelligence (Grok 4, xAI) combined with human expertise to develop and propose a practical, back-pain-specific Eight Brocades Qigong protocol and an 8-week randomized controlled trial (RCT) for its evaluation.
Methods: Grok 4 was provided with current epidemiological, biomechanical, and clinical evidence on CLBP and Eight Brocades Qigong. The AI generated a full protocol, which was subsequently edited for clinical applicability, safety, and tolerability. A single-blind RCT design with 40 participants (20 intervention, 20 active control) was outlined.
Results: The final protocol is a 20-minute, 3×/week program emphasizing six postures (most notably “Two Hands Hold the Feet”), performed for 6–8 repetitions each. Two higher-effort, less back-specific postures are omitted to improve adherence and reduce fatigue. Expected outcomes based on prior meta-analyses include a 10–15% reduction in Oswestry Disability Index and 15–20 mm decrease in VAS pain.
Conclusion: This study illustrates a replicable AI-assisted methodology for rapidly converting traditional Chinese movement practices into modern, evidence-informed therapeutic protocols. The proposed shortened Eight Brocades program is safe, feasible, and optimized for CLBP, and is ready for formal efficacy testing.
Keywords: chronic low back pain, Eight Brocades, Baduanjin, Qigong, Tai Chi, artificial intelligence, traditional Chinese medicine, mind-body intervention, randomized controlled trial, non-pharmacological treatment
All articles published by MSIP are made immediately available worldwide under an open access license. No special permission is required to reuse all or part of any MSIP article, including figures and tables.
For articles published under a Creative Commons CC BY 4.0 license, any part of the article may be reused for any purpose, including commercial use, provided that the original MSIP article is clearly cited.
