Srinagarind Medical Journal https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ <p>Srinagarind Medical Journal (SRIMEDJ) is an academic journal for medicine and public health that provides advanced health science according to the vision of the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University.</p> <p>Aims of this Journal</p> <ol> <li>To be an inclusive community that collaborates on health and public health research publications for the benefit of society presently and in the future.</li> <li>To be a resource of valuable scientific advanced articles that are published discoverable, widely disseminated, and freely accessible for all.</li> </ol> <p>The scope of this Journal includes general and emergency medicine, general social sciences, advanced and specialized nursing, epidemiology, and alternative medicine. </p> <p>This journal is a peer-reviewed process by 3 expert reviewers to ensure the articles have scientific validity, strong methodology, and high ethical standards.</p> <p>It is published quarterly. We publish biomedical papers in various forms. For details on submission of manuscripts please refer to the detailed instructions to author. Manuscripts will be returned to the author without review if they do not adhere to the instructions of the authors.</p> <p>SRIMEDJ is required for publication expenses including the cost of peer review management, journal production, and online hosting and archiving – by charging a fee for each article of 3,000 baht in Thai language and 3,500 baht for English since April 25, 2022 The publication fee for the author will be paid after finishing the peer review process. </p> <p> Frequency: every two months; on February, April, June, August, October, and December. The policy is to encourage the distribution of scientific information in medical and health sciences. It publishes seven types of articles; medical innovation, original article, case report, review article, conference, symposium, and letter to editor.</p> <p>Srinagarind Medical Journal is schedule to be published 6 volumes per year. Vol. 1 January - February, Vol. 2 Marc - April, Vol. 3 May- June, Vol. 4 July - August, Vol. 5 September - October, Vol. 6 November- December</p> <p><strong>Each volume consists of </strong></p> <p><strong>1. Medical innovation</strong> that reports the discovery product or a modified concept or a new operative procedure that can be applied in medical practice.</p> <p>2. Original article that reports the medical and public health research.</p> <p>3. Case report that reports new interesting cases with conclusive suggestions for implementation in the future.</p> <p>4. Review an article that reports a systematic review of literature from several databases at both international and intranational levels with the synthetic conclusion (both regular and special volumes). </p> <p>Note: Conference symposium and proceedings that collect special lectures and new articles from post-graduate health science students have been published only abstract in a special issue in September each year, which are not uploaded in the regular issue of the TCI-Thaijo website.</p> <p> </p> en-US bchumworathayi@gmail.com (Assoc. Prof. Bandit Chumworathayi) csompo@kku.ac.th (Sompong Chantakram) Thu, 25 Jun 2026 13:21:47 +0700 OJS 3.3.0.8 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss 60 Association of HbA1c Levels with Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes at Phon Thong Hospital, Roi Et Province https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270449 <p><strong><u>Background and objective:</u></strong> Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, which remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with diabetes. However, evidence regarding the association between glycemic control, as measured by HbA1c, and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) in community hospital settings is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the association between HbA1c levels and MACE among patients with type 2 diabetes at Phon Thong Hospital, Roi Et province.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> A retrospective cohort study was conducted using medical records and electronic databases of patients with type 2 diabetes receiving care at the chronic disease clinic between January 1, 2023 and December 31, 2025. Associations between HbA1c levels and MACE were analyzed using univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses. Statistical significance was defined as p-value &lt; 0.05.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> A total of 572 patients were included, with a mean age of 65.46 ± 8.88 years; 71% were female. The mean HbA1c level was 9.29 ± 2.04%. The proportion of MACE increased significantly with higher HbA1c categories (p for trend = 0.008). In multivariable analysis, each 1% increase in HbA1c was associated with a higher risk of MACE (adjusted OR = 1.23; 95%CI: 1.07–1.40; p = 0.003). Male sex and higher LDL-C levels were independently associated with increased MACE risk, whereas metformin use was associated with reduced risk.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusion:</u></strong> Higher HbA1c levels were associated with an increased risk of major adverse cardiovascular events among patients with type 2 diabetes in a community hospital setting, demonstrating a dose–response relationship. These findings highlight the importance of sustained glycemic control alongside comprehensive cardiovascular risk management to prevent MACE in patients with type 2 diabetes.</p> Janejila Tippimanporn Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270449 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Long-term Outcomes and Prognostic Factors of Graft Failure in Penetrating Keratoplasty: A Retrospective Study at Khon Kaen Hospital https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270716 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives:</u></strong> Penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) in developing regions face unique challenges, including a high prevalence of severe infectious keratitis that often requires large-diameter grafts, as well as disparities in patient health literacy. This study aimed to evaluate the long-term graft survival outcomes, causes of failure and independent prognostic factors of PKP at a tertiary referral center in Northeastern Thailand.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> A retrospective cohort study was conducted in 82 patients (82 eyes) who underwent primary PKP by a single surgeon between August 2020 and November 2025. The study was carried out at Khon Kaen Hospital, a regional tertiary center in Northeastern Thailand. Patients were classified into optical (n=31) and therapeutic (n=51) groups. Graft survival rates were estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method. Cox proportional hazards regression analysis was performed to identify independent risk factors for graft failure.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> The overall cumulative graft survival rates at 1 and 2 years were 53.9% and 49.0%, respectively. The optical group achieved significantly higher 1-year survival (75.0%) compared to the therapeutic group (40.4%) (Log-rank p = 0.002). Regarding the mechanisms of failure, post-operative infection was the leading direct cause (39.4%). In terms of baseline predictors, intra-operative factors, specifically a large graft size (&gt; 8.0 mm), emerged as the strongest independent risk factor for graft failure (Hazard Ratio [HR] 6.48; 95% CI 2.66–15.79; p &lt; 0.001), followed by donor factors, specifically older donor age (HR 1.035; 95% CI 1.01–1.06; p = 0.006).</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions:</u></strong> While Optical PKP achieves higher survival outcomes, the prognosis for Therapeutic PKP is significantly compromised by the necessity of large-diameter trephination. Large graft size and advanced donor age, rather than therapeutic indication, are the primary determinants of failure. Strategies should aim to minimize graft size, alongside public health initiatives for early referral to prevent the need for high-risk, large-diameter keratoplasty.</p> Nichawan Teerittikul Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270716 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Factors Associated with Requests for Hearing Disability Certification among Patients with Hearing Impairment at Buengkan Hospital https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270757 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives:</u></strong> Hearing impairment is common among older adults in Thailand as the country transitions into an aging society. Management primarily involves hearing aid rehabilitation. Under the Universal Coverage Scheme (UCS), patients can obtain hearing disability certification and hearing aids at public hospitals. However, some patients request certification without pursuing hearing aids. This study aimed to identify factors associated with requests for hearing disability certification and the desire for hearing aids.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> A hospital-based prospective observational analytic study was conducted among patients presenting with hearing complaints at the Otorhinolaryngology outpatient clinic, Bung Kan Hospital, from December 1, 2024, to December 31, 2025. Data were collected using structured questionnaires, medical history, physical examination, and audiometric evaluation. Pure-tone audiometry was performed using standard procedures, and the pure tone average (PTA) was calculated from thresholds at 0.5, 1, 2, and 4 kHz in the better ear. Participants were classified into two groups according to their request for a hearing disability certificate. Factors associated with the demand for certification were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> Of 385 patients, 294 (76.4%) requested hearing disability certification, while 91 (23.6%) did not. Factors significantly associated with certification requests included age ≥60 years (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 3.91, 95% CI 2.01–7.63), monthly income &lt;10,000 THB (AOR 2.15, 95% CI 1.04–4.41), duration of hearing symptoms ≥12 months (AOR 3.12, 95% CI 1.53–6.37), and a better-ear pure tone average ≥61 dB (AOR 11.05, 95% CI 2.42–50.43). Among those requesting certification, 70.2% expressed a demand for hearing aids (p &lt; 0.001), 73.8% met the criteria for hearing disability (p &lt; 0.001). Of the 226 patients with confirmed disability, 171 (75.7%) expressed a desire for hearing aids; however, only 92 (53.8%) ultimately received them (p &lt; 0.001).</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions</u></strong><strong>:</strong> Age, socioeconomic and clinical factors were significantly associated with requests for hearing disability certification. Although the majority of patients with confirmed disability desired hearing aids, only about half ultimately received them, highlighting the need to improve access to hearing rehabilitation services.</p> Kanokkan Mahawerawat, Chonthicha Chit-uea-ophat Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270757 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Effect of Physical Rehabilitation in Patients with Chronic Stroke at the Physical Therapy Unit, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Srinagarind Hospital: A Retrospective Study https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270826 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives:</u></strong> Stroke is a major cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide. Following the acute phase, many patients transition to the chronic phase and continue to experience persistent motor impairments that adversely affect activities of daily living. Physical rehabilitation plays an important role in reducing disability and preventing complications related to immobility, even in the chronic phase. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an 8-week physical rehabilitation program on physical performance in patients with chronic stroke.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> This retrospective single-group pre-post study was conducted as a routine-to-research project. Physical performance was assessed before and after an 8-week physical rehabilitation program. Outcome measures included gait speed assessed by the 10-Meter Walk Test (10MWT), muscle strength assessed by the Five-Times Sit-to-Stand Test (FTSST) and hand-grip strength (HGS); balance assessed using the Timed Up and Go Test (TUGT) and Functional Reach Test (FRT); and flexibility assessed using the Sit-and-Reach Test. Each test was performed twice, and the best value was used for analysis. Data were analyzed using paired t-tests.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> A total of 33 patients were included, of whom 17 (51.5%) were male, with a mean age of 65.5±13.9 years. The median time since stroke onset was 2 years (interquartile range 2 years). Physical performance improved significantly following the physical rehabilitation program. Gait speed increased (mean difference [MD] of 0.15 m/s, p &lt; 0.001). TUGT time decreased (MD -11.5 seconds, p &lt; 0.001). FRT distance increased (MD 3.6 cm, p &lt; 0.001). FTSST time decreased (MD -6.5 seconds, p &lt; 0.001). HGS increased (MD 2.4 kg, p &lt; 0.001), and flexibility improved (MD 3.12 cm, p &lt; 0.001).</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusion:</u></strong> Continuous physical rehabilitation in patients with chronic stroke was associated with improved physical performance. The observed improvements across multiple functional domains—including gait, balance, muscle strength, and flexibility—suggest that meaningful functional gains remain achievable even in the chronic phase of stroke.</p> Maneepun Laophosri, Waritsara Boonsong, Woranon Boonsong, Jittima Saengsuwan Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270826 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Efficacy of Ultrasound-guided Right Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane Block for Pain Relief in Enhanced Recovery after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270574 <p><strong><u>Backgrounds and objective</u></strong><strong>: </strong>Pain management is the important part of enhanced recovery after surgery programs. Ultrasound-guided subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an effective regional anesthesia technique for reducing postoperative pain following laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Although bilateral subcostal TAP block has been shown to be effective in providing analgesia and reducing opioid consumption after laparoscopic cholecystectomy, there is still no clear conclusion regarding the efficacy of a unilateral approach. The primary objective of this study is to compare the effectiveness of 24-hour postoperative morphine consumption between patients receiving a right unilateral subcostal TAP block and those in the control group.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods</u></strong><strong>: </strong>This randomized controlled trial included 43 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy between August and December 2025. Participants were randomly assigned to either the subcostal TAP block group or the control group. Compare 24-hour postoperative morphine consumption, pain scores at rest and on movement at 12 and 24 hours using the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and postoperative complications.</p> <p><strong><u>Results</u></strong><strong>: </strong>Ultrasound-guided right Subcostal Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block significantly reduced total morphine consumption within 24 hours postoperatively. The median morphine consumption was 0 (0, 0) mg in the TAP block group, compared to 4 (2, 7) mg in the control group (p &lt; 0.001). Regarding postoperative pain, the median pain score at rest at 12 hours was 0 (0, 0) in the block group, which was significantly lower than 2 (1.25, 3) in the control group (p &lt; 0.001). The median pain score on movement at 12 hours was 2 (2, 3) in the block group versus 3 (3, 5.75) in the control group (p = 0.026). At 24 hours, the median pain score at rest was 0 (0, 0) in the block group compared to 1 (0, 1) in the control group (p = 0.026). No complications related to the TAP block or surgery were observed in this study.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions</u></strong><strong>: </strong>Ultrasound-guided right subcostal transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is an effective and safe technique for reducing postoperative opioid consumption within 24 hours, as well as postoperative pain at 12 and 24 hours, following laparoscopic cholecystectomy.</p> Jitpattra Nganlasom, Ariyachart Kalawa, Piyarat Boonphila, Waraporn Buanak Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270574 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Outcomes of Pain Management after Thyroidectomy for ENT Patients in the Post-anesthesia Care Unit https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270834 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives:</u></strong> A thyroidectomy is considered a surgical procedure with low to moderate risk. However, acute post-operative pain remains a significant clinical issue. The objective of this study were to evaluate postoperative pain management outcomes following thyroidectomy in the PACU and to identify factors associated with postoperative pain.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> This retrospective descriptive study examined 136 patients, who had undergone thyroidectomies under general anesthesia at the Department of Otolaryngology at Srinagarind Hospital between January–December 2024. The demographic data, the surgical and anesthetic details, the pain scores using the numeric rating scale (NRS), the analgesic management, and the post-operative complications were collected from the medical records.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> Most patients were female (90.44%) with a mean age of 52.20 years, who were ASA class II (67.65%) and who had undergone thyroid lobectomy (58.82%). Moderate to severe pain levels (NRS≥4) had been reported in 47.79% of patients upon PACU admission. However, before discharge, that number had decreased to 18.38%. The minimum time for the first analgesic administration by the nurse anesthetist was 5 minutes. No factor was found to be significantly associated with NRS≥4 (p&gt;0.05), although a trend toward higher pain levels was observed in patients with ASA class III, (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) = 3.72, 95% CI: 0.93-14.81, p=0.062)and with surgical durations &gt;120 minutes (AOR = 3.72, 95% CI: 0.95-14.51, p=0.059).</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusion:</u></strong> Post-operative pain management in the PACU was effective in reducing pain levels in thyroidectomy patients. Close monitoring and individualized pain assessment should be emphasized, particularly in high-risk patients such as those with prolonged surgical time (&gt;2 hours) and ASA class III status, to ensure optimal post-operative recovery.</p> Sangmukda Saras, Ploychompoo Worratarakul, Kotchakorn Palachewa, Janchai Thonhongsa, Sunisa Pongpakdee Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270834 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Diagnostic Performance of Artificial Intelligence and Radiologists in 3D Automated Breast Ultrasound System (ABUS) Interpretation: A Pilot Study https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/271311 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives:</u></strong> Breast cancer is currently the most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. In 2022, the World Health Organization reported approximately 2.29 million new cases and 666,103 deaths. In Thailand, breast cancer similarly ranks as the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, with approximately 21,628 new cases and 7,599 deaths. Mammography, the standard screening tool, has limitations in women with extremely dense breast tissue, showing only 61% sensitivity compared to 86% in fatty breasts. 3D Automated Breast Ultrasound System (3D ABUS) is a technology suitable for dense breasts that provides standardized imaging. Artificial intelligence (AI) integration may improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce false positives, and support areas with limited access to breast imaging specialists. This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of artificial intelligence in classifying breast cancer risk from 3D ABUS images compared with radiologists of different expertise levels and experience, and to study advantages and limitations of radiologists versus artificial intelligence (AI) in breast cancer screening using automated breast ultrasound (3D ABUS).</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> This retrospective study included 50 three-dimensional automated breast ultrasound (3D-ABUS) images from the TDSC-ABUS2023 dataset, without stratification by breast tissue density, comprising 25 benign and 25 malignant cases. Three radiologists participated: a breast imaging specialist (R1), a radiologist with over 15 years of experience (R2), and a radiologist with less than 15 years of experience (R3). Cases 1–10 were designated as a familiarization set to allow radiologists to acclimate to the imaging characteristics and were excluded from the final analysis. The remaining 40 cases (cases 11–50) constituted the evaluation set, in which radiologists were tasked with classifying the lesions as either benign or malignant along with recording the time spent interpreting each case (in seconds) and their level of diagnostic confidence using a confidence score rated on a scale of 1 to 10. R3 analyzed the images both independently and with AI assistance (R3&amp;AI), with an inter-reading washout period of approximately 9 months. 3D Slicer software was used for image analysis. The AI system employed a combined model of Faster R-CNN with ResNet50 for detection, U-net for segmentation, and Radiomics with Machine Learning for classification. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, reading time, confidence scores AUC and statistical significance of Diagnostic performance were measured.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> In terms of diagnostic accuracy, R1 and AI demonstrated the highest accuracy (72.50%), followed by R3&amp;AI (65.00%), R3 (62.50%), and R2 (60.00%). Of the 40 evaluated cases, 12 cases (30.0%) were correctly classified by all reader groups and AI. For sensitivity, R1 had the highest at 80.00%, followed by R3, R3&amp;AI, and AI (75.00%), and R2 (70.00%). For specificity, AI had the highest at 70.00%, followed by R1 (65.00%), R3&amp;AI (55.00%), and R2 and R3 (50.00%). AUC values for R1 and AI were highest (0.7250), followed by R3&amp;AI (0.6500), R3 (0.6250), and R2 (0.6000). Comparison of diagnostic performance between each group and the AI revealed no statistically significant differences across all metrics (p &gt; 0.05 for all groups). Pairwise comparisons of AUC values between radiologist groups and AI, as well as among radiologist groups themselves, showed no statistically significant differences in any comparison (p &gt; 0.05). The interobserver reliability of confidence scores among radiologists was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), which was 0.069 (95%CI: -2.543–0.976, p = 0.345) Reading times for R1, R2, R3 and R3&amp;AI were 47.40, 47.05, 53.70, and 41.20 seconds, respectively, R3&amp;AI condition demonstrated 23.28% reduction in reading time and no statistically significant differences (p &gt; 0.05). The AI required an average processing time of 12–15 seconds per case. R3&amp;AI showed the highest confidence score (median = 8.0) and greatest consistency (IQR = 2.0).</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions:</u></strong> AI demonstrated accuracy equivalent to breast imaging specialists and the highest specificity, reducing false positive diagnoses. AI can enhance the performance of less experienced radiologists by improving accuracy, specificity, and confidence. However, breast imaging specialists maintained the highest sensitivity for cancer detection. Furthermore, automation bias was observed in the R3&amp;AI group, where increased confidence scores did not correspond to improved diagnostic accuracy, representing an important caution for clinical AI implementation<strong>.</strong> This study demonstrates the potential of integrating 3D ABUS with AI in breast cancer screening programs, especially in regions facing a shortage of subspecialized radiologists. However, policy-level implementation warrants further validation through large-scale prospective studies in real-world populations.</p> Suprawee Rungphitthayanon, Phalin Phadungmatrwaragul, Payia Chadbunchachai, Todsaporn Fuangrod, Kamonwan Soonklang, Paniti Achararit Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/271311 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Effects of A Combined Health Literacy Intervention and Web-based Application on the Health Literacy, Health Behaviors, and Blood Pressure of Patients with Hypertension: A Quasi-experimental Study https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270454 <p><strong><u>Background and objective:</u></strong> Hypertension is a leading cause of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide, yet blood pressure control rates remain suboptimal in several populations. Effective blood pressure control requires individuals to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyle behaviors, which can be challenging when health literacy is limited. Integrating health literacy programs with web-based applications may help patients with hypertension acquire information, appraise health resources, and implement strategies to reduce blood pressure. This study evaluated the effects of a combined health literacy intervention and web-based application on health literacy, health behaviors, and blood pressure.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> A quasi-experimental repeated-measures study was conducted among participants in Bangkok, Thailand, who received either a 12-week intervention integrated with a web-based application or traditional care between April and August 2023. Outcomes included health literacy, health behaviors, and blood pressure. Data were collected at baseline, post-intervention, and follow-up, and analyzed using repeated-measures ANCOVA, adjusted for hypertension duration.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> From 58 participants (n=28 experimental, n=30 control), the experimental group demonstrated higher adjusted mean scores across all time points for health literacy (F=44.37; p&lt;0.001; partial η²=0.446) and overall health behavior (F=53.41; p&lt;0.001; partial η²=0.493) compared with the control group. Systolic blood pressure showed a significant main effect of time and group-by-time interaction, with reductions from baseline to post-intervention (mean difference –10.57 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), and baseline to follow-up (mean difference –12.31 mmHg, p&lt;0.001), whereas diastolic blood pressure only showed a significant main effect of time.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusion:</u></strong> The integrated interventions improved health literacy, health behavior domains, and systolic blood pressure, but not diastolic blood pressure, supporting the integration of theory-based health literacy interventions with digital tools.</p> Saowaluck Sukpattanasrikul, Jirawan Mala, Budsara Hiransaroj Jirawisan, Virapun Wirojratana, Theepapha Jamkrajang, Jittima Panyasarawut, Prasert Assantachai, Varalak Srinonprasert, Siwaporn Chainuvati, Naris Kitnarong, Sukree Kade, Kantamas Supamanee Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270454 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Impact of Pharmacist Interventions on Preventing Drug-related Problems Associated with Prescribing Rabies Post-exposure Prophylaxis in the Emergency Room, Srinagarind Hospital https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/269815 <p><strong><u>Background and </u></strong><strong><u>objectives</u></strong>: Rabies is a disease with a 100% fatality rate because of incurable disease. Appropriate regimens and the timing of vaccine administration are critical to saving lives. Pharmacists are responsible for overseeing all aspects of medication management to ensure safe delivery to patients. This study investigated the impact of pharmacist intervention on the prevention of drug-related problems (DRPs) associated with prescribing post-exposure prophylaxis, including rabies vaccines and immunoglobulins. The research aims to identify the types and frequency of DRPs and to evaluate the outcomes of pharmacist interventions.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods</u></strong><u>:</u> This was a retrospective observational study. Inclusion criteria were patients who received rabies post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) at the emergency room, Srinagarind Hospital, from January 1, 2022, to December 31, 2024. Data was collected from the hospital database, and DRPs were classified according to Heple and Strand classification.</p> <p><strong><u>Results</u></strong><u>:</u> A total of 3,846 patients (3,977 visits) were included. Overall, 401 DRPs were identified, with improper drug selection as the most common type (60.8%), followed by drug use without indication (17.5%) and overdosage (11.5%). The pharmacist intervened in 184 cases with a 100% acceptance rate, resulting in direct cost savings of 126,484.50 THB. There were 217 DRPs without intervention, primarily inappropriate antibiotic selection. The primary cause of DRPs was knowledge/information-related issues.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions</u></strong><u>:</u> Pharmacists serve as the checkpoint in screening for potential problems before patients receive their medications. Effective screening and prescription analysis appropriateness by pharmacists may contribute to prevent DRPs, reduc risks, enhance patient safety, and decrease healthcare costs in managing rabies-exposed patients.</p> Rindawan Phankien, Lukkana Matvises, Sirinya Chantaramethakun, Thapanawong Mitsungnern Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/269815 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Correlation Between Pre-collection Lympho-mononuclear Cell Count and CD34+ Cell Yield in Peripheral Blood Stem Cell Collection: A Single-center Experience from Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270843 <p><strong><u>Background and objective:</u></strong> Peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) collection is resource-intensive, highlighting the need for reliable and widely available predictive markers to optimize collection efficiency. Although pre-collection CD34⁺ cell count is an established predictor, the potentiality is limited in curtains laboratories. This study evaluated the association of pre-collection lympho-mononuclear cell (MNC) count and absolute neutrophil count (ANC) with PBSC yield.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods:</u></strong> This study conducted a retrospective analysis of 52 patients undergoing autologous PBSC collection at Sunpasitthiprasong Hospital between 2013 and 2025. Correlations between pre-collection MNC, ANC, CD34⁺ cell count and PBSC yield were assessed, followed by log-transformed multivariable regression to identify independent predictors.</p> <p><strong><u>Results:</u></strong> PBSC yield correlated strongly with pre-collection CD34⁺ cell count (r = 0.87, p &lt; 0.001) and moderately with MNC (r = 0.46, p &lt; 0.001), while ANC showed no significant association. In multivariable analysis, only pre-collection CD34⁺ cell count remained an independent predictor.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusion:</u></strong> Pre-collection MNC shows a moderate association with PBSC yield; however, CD34⁺ cell count remains the most robust predictor for optimizing PBSC collection.</p> Pavarit Arayasukawat Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/270843 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Development of Multiplex Real-time PCR for Detection of Hemoglobin Constant Spring and Hemoglobin Pakse https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/269930 <p><strong><u>Background and objectives</u></strong>: Hemoglobin Constant Spring (Hb CS) and Hemoglobin Pakse (Hb PS) are gene mutations that cause alpha-thalassemia, which are difficult to diagnose in carriers of the disease. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a multiplex real-time PCR method for the detection of both mutations and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness per test kit and the time efficiency of the analytical procedure.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods</u></strong>: Three hydrolysis probe-specific primer-probe sets labeled with fluorescent dyes were designed and applied to 67 DNA samples extracted from blood specimens obtained from Srinagarind Hospital. The analysis was performed on a BioRad® CFX96 Touch™ instrument, and results were interpreted using real-time PCR amplification curves in conjunction with allelic discrimination plots. Concordance with the hybridization method was assessed using Cohen's Kappa coefficient.</p> <p><strong><u>Results</u></strong>: The multiplex real-time PCR assay developed in this study demonstrated perfect concordance with the hybridization method, yielding a Cohen's Kappa coefficient of 1.0. The assay provided easy result interpretation with no non-specific binding. It reduced the cost by 70.9% and the turnaround time by 73.1% compared to the routine method. Furthermore, Hb CS or Hb PS mutations were detected in samples that had previously been tested negative by hemoglobin typing analysis.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions</u></strong>: The developed multiplex real-time PCR is suitable for the detection of Hb CS and Hb PS carriers, offering significant cost and time efficiency. Further validation in a larger sample cohort would enhance confidence in implementing this method in a clinical laboratory setting.</p> Worrawalan Lerttham, Nopporn Sawatjui, Prajuab Chaimanee, Patcharee Komvilaisak, Pimjai Ananta, Phatsarawadee Hemwaranon Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/269930 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700 Comparison of Different Testing Platforms and Reagents in Detecting High-Risk HPV DNA (HPV 16/18 and non-16/18) and Cervical Cytological Abnormalities: A Multicenter Study across Four Regions of Thailand https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/271191 <p><strong><u>Background and objective</u></strong><u>:</u> HPV DNA testing is a key tool recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) for cervical cancer screening, particularly for detecting high-risk HPV (hrHPV) types such as HPV 16 and 18, which are strongly associated with cervical cancer. However, test performance (sensitivity and specificity) may vary across different platforms and reagent kits, potentially influencing clinical interpretation and management. This study aimed to compare different testing platforms and reagents in detecting high risk HPV DNA with liquid-based cytology (LBC), and colposcopy biopsy findings.</p> <p><strong><u>Methods</u></strong><u>: </u>This retrospective descriptive study collected data from HPV screening records of Thai women in Surin, Ubon Ratchathani, Phitsanulok, and Nakhon Si Thammarat provinces who participated in the national cervical cancer screening program under the Ministry of Public Health, Thailand, between January 1 and December 31, 2024. HPV detection was performed by Real-time PCR using STARlet AIOS-Surin (STARlet), Abbott HPV Alinity m-Ubon Ratchathani (Abbott), Cobas 6800 system-Phitsanulok (Cobas 6800) and Cobas 4800 system-Nakhon Si Thammarat (Cobas 4800) with accompanying cervical colposcopy biopsy and liquid-based cytology (LBC). All data recorded on a non-duplicated, individual basis.</p> <p><strong><u>Results</u></strong><u>:</u> A total of 12,552 Thai women underwent cervical cancer screening using high-risk HPV DNA testing by Real-time PCR in 2024. The overall HPV positivity rate was 10.0% (95%CI 9.4–10.5). Among HPV-positive cases, HPV 16/18 accounted for 27.8%, while non-16/18 high-risk HPV accounted for 79.7%. Surin Province showed the highest HPV positivity rate (19.7%), whereas Nakhon Si Thammarat showed the lowest (6.3%). Comparison of HPV DNA results from various HPV testing platforms against LBC and colposcopy biopsy results revealed that the STARlet instrument showed significantly higher detection rates of abnormal results for both HPV 16/18 and non-16/18 groups compared to all other platforms. Meanwhile, Abbott and Cobas 6800 instruments showed no difference in abnormal results, while the Cobas 4800 showed the lowest proportion of abnormal results.</p> <p><strong><u>Conclusions</u></strong><u>:</u> This study found that HPV detection rates using Real-time PCR in Thai women, compared across four study sites using different test platform and kits, showed no statistically significant differences in the proportions of HPV 16/18 and non-16/18 detections. Comparison of HPV DNA results from various HPV testing platforms against LBC and colposcopy biopsy results revealed that the proportions of normal and abnormal findings differed significantly across platforms (p&lt;0.001).</p> Phanchanut Mahantassanapong, Teerapong Wongwiboolchai, Apichat Chumtong, Suthiporn Prom-agsorn Copyright (c) 2026 Srinagarind Medical Journal https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0 https://li01.tci-thaijo.org/index.php/SRIMEDJ/article/view/271191 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0700