bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Pregnant Woman’s Perception of COVID-19 Based on the Health Belief Model in Isfahan
Authors: Kalantari Narges , Khoshgoftar Mohadeseh , Moradi Fatemeh , Pirzadeh Asiyeh
Published: September 2024

Background:

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) is a viral disease that has become an international public health concern. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate pregnant women’s perception of COVID-19 based on the health belief model in Isfahan.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional study includes 100 pregnant women selected by random sampling. Data were collected using an online questionnaire on the Porsline website. This questionnaire examines the knowledge and structures of the health belief model, including perceived susceptibility and severity, perceived barriers and benefits, and self-efficacy regarding the prevention of COVID-19. Data were analyzed using analytical tests such as independent t-test and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The significance level was considered to be <0.05.

Results:

The results showed that the knowledge of COVID-19 and preventative methods was at a reasonable level among most women (77%). Also, there was a significant correlation between education and self-efficacy. Based on the findings, the mean score of knowledge (F1,99 = 0.116, p = 0.04) and the mean score of perceived susceptibility (F1,99 = 0.02, p < 0.001) of mothers who were pregnant for the first time were significantly higher than mothers who were pregnant for the second time or more.

Conclusions:

The perceived severity and susceptibility scores were higher than other constructs, indicating women’s proper understanding of the risks of COVID-19. However, half of them stated that they do not go to receive services, and this issue can have adverse consequences. The researchers recommend planning to improve other model constructs, such as self-efficacy, for improving women’s performance in receiving care.
Exploring the Deeper Insights of Vrikshasana
Authors: Kishore D Mohan , Divya B R , Manjunath Nandi Krishnamurthy
Published: September 2024

Vrikshasana is also known as a penance posture as it infuses a deep contemplative meditation effect and self discipline in its practitioner. This classical yoga pose is explored to gain a deeper insight into its origin, practice methods, biomechanics, and artificial intelligence (AI)-based learning in this study. Information related to Vrikshasana from classical yoga texts was considered to understand the symbolical interpretation and method of practice. To obtain the information about biomechanics and AI based learning of Vrikshasana scientific research studies from conference proceedings, published research papers, technical reports, and journals were explored. The practice of Vrikshasana infuses a strong sense of balance and postural stability while improving the strength and endurance in the lower extremity muscles. It helps in preventing the fear of fall that usually occurs as an aging problem. The anatomical and biomechanical insights provided in this study give a wide range of scope to the physiotherapists, yoga therapists, and fitness trainers in their approach to training this pose. The study also highlights the importance of the AI-based approach which promotes self-training to experience the positive benefits of pose practice and equally prevents any injury or the fear of falls.
Customizing Treatment Scheduling Windows with a Time Margin Recipe: A Single-institutional Study
Authors: Chauhan Rohit Singh , Munshi Anusheel , Pradhan Anirudh
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

Rising cancer incidences, complex treatment techniques, and workflows have all impacted the radiotherapy scheduling process. Intelligent appointment scheduling is needed to help radiotherapy users adapt to new practices.

Materials and Methods:

We utilized van Herk’s safety margin formula to determine the radiotherapy department’s treatment scheduling window (TSW). In addition, we examined the influence of in-room imaging on linac occupancy time (LOT). Varian Aria™ software version 15.1 was used to collect retrospective data on LOT, treatment site, intent, techniques, special protocol, and in-room imaging.

Results:

Treatment scheduling windows varied across treatment sites. The mean TSW using van Herk’s formalism was 31.5 min, significantly longer than the current TSW of 15 min (P = 0.036), with the pelvic site having the longest (43.8 min) and the brain site having the shortest (12 min). 28% of patients exceeded the in-practice TSW of 15 min. 46.2% of patients had multiple images per fraction, with the proportion being highest in pelvic patients (33%). Patients treated with palliative intent, intensity-modulated radiotherapy, special protocols (bladder protocol and gating), and multiple in-room images per fraction had significantly higher LOT. High treatment time uncertainty was observed in the pelvic and thorax sites, indicating the impact of in-room imaging frequency and on-couch treatment decisions on overall treatment time and indicating that current treatment practices should be reviewed and modified if necessary.

Conclusions:

The time margin recipe can customize the treatment scheduling window and improve treatment practices. This formalism can help manage the radiotherapy department’s workload and reduce patient wait times.
End-To-End Procedure For IORT in Brain Metastases and Film Dosimetry
Authors: Lozares-Cordero Sergio , Ibáñez-Carreras Reyes , García-Barrios Alberto , Castro-Moreno Raquel , González-Rodríguez Andrea , Sánchez-Casi Marta , Campos-Boned Arantxa , Gandía-Martínez Almudena , Antonio Font-Gómez José , Jiménez-Puertas Sara , Villa-Gazulla David , Díez-Chamarro Javier , Hernández-Hernández Mónica , González-Pérez Víctor , Cisneros-Gimeno Ana Isabel
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

The study is intended to perform an end-to-end test of the entire intraoperative process using cadaver heads. A simulation of tumor removal was performed, followed by irradiation of the bed and measurement of absorbed doses with radiochromic films.

Materials and Methods:

Low-energy X-ray intraoperative radiotherapy (IORT) was used for irradiation. A computed tomography study was performed at each site and the absorbed doses calculated by the treatment planning system, as well as absorbed doses with radiochromic films, were studied.

Results:

The absorbed doses in the organs at risk (OAR) were evaluated in each case, obtaining maximum doses within the tolerance limits. The absorbed doses in the target were verified and the deviations were <1%.

Conclusions:

These tests demonstrated that this comprehensive procedure is a reproducible quality assurance tool which allows continuous assessment of the dosimetric and geometric accuracy of clinical brain IORT treatments. Furthermore, the absorbed doses measured in both target and OAR are optimal for these treatments.
The Factors Affecting the Response of 2019 Pilgrims toward Preventive Measures Against SARS and other Respiratory Infectious Diseases in Hajj
Authors: Samarkandi Osama A. , Alharbi Yasser A. , Khan Anas A. , Alqarni Hamoud S.
Published: September 2024

Purpose:

This study aims to evaluate the response of pilgrims at Almadinah Almunawwarah Airport toward knowledge of preventive measures on respiratory infectious diseases, and to study the factors affecting the response of pilgrims to prevent infectious diseases such as SARS.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted at Almadinah Almunawwarah airport in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Pilgrims who arrived at the city airport of Almadinah Almunawwarah (during the pilgrimage season in 2019) were invited to participate in this study. The tool used to collect data was a paper-based questionnaire.

Results:

The respondents' mean age was 39.8 years with a range of 18 to >50 years and a median age of 35–50 years. The findings indicated that 82.8% of the study participants reported overcrowding could increase the risk of infections. In addition, 67.4% of them agreed that cardiovascular and heat-related illnesses are major causes of death in travelers to the Hajj. With regards to attitudes about 70% agreed that visiting a physician before travel is essential whereas 73.7% of them agreed that personal hygiene protects them from many diseases.

Conclusion:

The current study shows that knowledge, attitudes, and practices toward preventive measures against respiratory infectious diseases, such as SARS, among pilgrims, are generally less acceptable if contrasted with their ways toward preventive procedures.
Infection and Case Fatality Rate of COVID-19 in 100 Countries
Authors: Mohammed Rafiuddin , Khan Javed , Alshagrawi Salah
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

The purpose of the study was to determine COVID-19 infection rate (IR) and case fatality rate (CFR) among the economic status of the countries.

Methods:

First 100 countries, according to the highest number of COVID-19 cases recorded as of August 14, 2021, were included in the present study and were classified as high-income (38), upper-middle-income (37), and low-middle-income (25) countries. The data were extracted from the Worldometer website tracking of COVID-19 cases globally. All parameters in this study are expressed as frequencies and percentages. IR and CFR were tabulated using specific formulations.

Results:

In high-income countries, Czechia (15.62%) and Bahrain (15.32%) reported the highest IR, whereas Hungary (3.71%) and Slovakia (3.19%) reported the highest CFR. In upper-middle-income countries, Georgia (11.99%) and Argentina (11.13%) with the highest IR, followed by Peru (9.25%) and Mexico (8.06%) resulted in the highest CFR. In lower-middle-income countries, Moldova (6.55%) and Palestine (6.12%) reported the highest IR. Egypt (5.82%) and Afghanistan (4.62%) observed the highest CFR of COVID-19. When comparing the economic status, found IR highest among high income countries (7.60%), whereas upper middle income countries showed the highest CFR (2.73%). Interestingly, found the lowest CFR in Qatar (0.26%) and UAE (0.29%) among all countries.

Conclusions:

Based on the comparison, different countries have responded better than other countries irrespective of the financial and economic status of these countries. The results showed high-income countries are the worst affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The result of this preliminary study can be used as a benchmark for authorities in the administration of the policies according to the economic status.
Pituicytoma: A Rare Tumor of Neurohypophysis Causing Hypogonadism
Authors: Alsabbagh Badriah , Zekry Abdulrahman , Yaghmoor Faris , Alkhaldi Hisham , Alroqi Ahmad , Ajlan Abdulrazag
Published: September 2024

Pituicytoma is a rare benign tumor that arises from pituicytes in the infundibulum and posterior pituitary gland. Pituicytomas are rarely encountered in clinical practice and have no characteristic radiological features and, thus, can be misdiagnosed as more commonly encountered lesions such as pituitary adenoma, meningioma, and craniopharyngioma. Clinically, patients can present with hormonal disturbances and headaches. However, visual field defects are the most commonly reported clinical complaint. Here, we report a 42-year-old male who presented with symptoms suggestive of hypogonadism for the past 2 years. Upon clinical assessment, the patient’s ophthalmic examination was unremarkable, and hormonal evaluation revealed low testosterone levels. Pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a suprasellar homogeneous enhancing mass causing chiasmatic displacement. Elective transnasal transsphenoidal resection was performed. Postoperatively, the patient developed diabetes insipidus, and was managed accordingly. Histopathology showed patterns consistent with pituicytoma, one of the uncommon intracranial tumors. Total resection remains the goal of treatment; however, this is not easily achievable because of the high vascularity of the tumor and its adhesive nature to adjacent structures. The diagnosis of pituicytoma is established by histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Clinical and radiological follow-up is advisable, especially with subtotal resection, due to the likelihood of recurrence.
Prevalence of Poststroke Depression among Saudi Patients in Tertiary Medical Centers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alharbi NA , Aydan NA , Alhamzah SA
Published: September 2024

Poststroke depression (PSD) occurs in a significant number of patients and constitutes an important complication of stroke, leading to greater disability as well as increased mortality. Determining the prevalence of PSD in the Saudi population will provide more focused practice in assessing stroke patients for depression, which will improve patients’ quality of life and reduce the time needed for recovery.

Aim of the Study:

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence and the risk factors of PSD.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted among post stroke patients in Riyadh City, Saudi Arabia. Assessing the post stroke patients at King Saud University Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia between March 2021 and March 2022 by using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) questionnaire. All statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.

Results:

In this study, 119 stroke patients (56.3% female) participated. 70.5% of all stroke cases were ischemic stroke. The prevalence of depression in patients diagnosed with stroke was 76.5%. Regarding depression severity, 38.7%, and 20.2% of the patients had moderate and severe depression, respectively. Although this is the case, only 28.6% of patients who had a stroke used antidepressants. We also observed that the prevalence of depression was significantly more common among gender females (P = 0.003), unemployed (P = 0.016), patients with less monthly income (P = 0.013), and patients with a family history of psychiatric disorder (P = 0.011).

Conclusion:

In this study, two-thirds of the stroke survivors experience PSD. It is mostly correlated with sociodemographic factors such as female gender, mental illness in the family history, unemployment, and low income. Likewise, PSD may also be predicted by a family history of mental illness.
Valporic Acid-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Adikwu Elias , Liverpool Ebiladei
Published: September 2024

Background:

The use of valproic acid (VPA) as therapy for epileptic and other neuropsychiatric disorders may cause hepatotoxicity. Selenium (Se), a component of selenoproteins, which performs important enzymic functions, may protect biomolecules from damage. This study assessed the protective effect of Se against VPA-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats.

Methods:

Thirty-two adult Wistar rats of both sexes (160 ± 20 g) were divided into four groups of n = 8. Groups 1 (Control), 2, and 3 were orally administered with normal saline (0.2 mL), Se (0.1 mg/kg/day), and VPA (200 mg/kg/day) for 30 days, respectively. Group 4 was orally administered with Se (0.1 mg/kg/day) and VPA (200 mg/kg/day) for 30 days. After treatment, the rats were weighed and anesthetized. Blood samples were collected and analyzed for serum biochemical parameters. Liver samples were weighed and assessed for biochemical markers and histology.

Results:

Body weight was significantly (P < 0.01) decreased, whereas liver weight was significantly (P < 0.01) increased in VPA administered rats. VPA caused significant (P < 0.001) increases in serum and liver aminotransferases, alkaline phosphatase, gamma-glutamyl transferase, lactate dehydrogenase, conjugated bilirubin, total bilirubin, total cholesterol, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and malondialdehyde levels when compared to control. VPA produced significant (P < 0.001) decreases in liver glutathione, catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase and serum high density lipoprotein cholesterol levels when compared to control. Hepatocyte necrosis and fatty change were observed in VPA- administered rats. Se supplementation significantly (P < 0.01) reversed VPA-induced hepatotoxicity.

Conclusion:

Se seems effective against VPA-induced hepatotoxicity.
Glycemic Control among Patients with Diabetes and Comorbid Depression in Gulf Countries
Authors: Alsaad Saad Mohammad , Binmoammar Turki A. , Hassounah Sondus , Mokdad Ali H. , Rawaf Salman
Published: September 2024

Background:

People with diabetes suffering from depression are at greater risk of suffering from an episode of diabetic burnout which can have adverse outcomes on their health.

Objectives:

The primary objective is to review the relationship between depression and glycemic control among patients with diabetes in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

Methods:

MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsychINFO, and GLOBAL HEALTH databases were systematically searched without language restriction to identify relevant studies that examined the relationship between glycemic control and depression among patients with diabetes in (GCC) countries. Reference lists and Google Scholar were also searched for additional studies. Research was conducted by two reviewers independently and disagreements were resolved by discussion.

Results:

Our search revealed nine studies were published between 2004 and 2018 and a total of 2199 subjects with diabetes. Majority of the participants were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM). Out of the 9 articles included in the synthesis, only five of them have reported a significant association between depression and glycemic control; on the other hand, four articles showed nonsignificant association. The prevalence rates of depression among diabetic patients ranged from 12.5% to 61.8%.

Conclusion:

Depression was associated with poorly controlled HbA1c. However, this association was not significant across all studies. Considering the high rates of DM in these countries, better quality studies are needed to assess the depression comorbidity and its impact on glycemic control for better cost-effective treatments and to inform practice.
Preparedness to Implement “A Family Physician for Every Family,” which is the Magic Recipe for Cost-Effective Health Care for All: Viewpoint
Authors: Alshammari SA
Published: September 2024

The Saudi Vision 2030 endorsed health-care models emphasizing promotion, prevention, and effective treatment. The 2008 World Health Organization report, “Primary Health Care: Now More Than Ever,” also encouraged reform. The objective of this study was to highlight the evidence and benefits of scaling up PHC capacity to implement “a family physician for every family” model. PubMed, Google Scholar, the Saudi digital library, theses, conference proceedings on family medicine, primary care, general practice, family physicians, government reports, policy documents, and press releases in Arabic and English were searched from September 2021 to September 2022. The search terms included: Saudi health care, health-care transformation, family medicine, primary care, general practice, family physician, family doctor, Saudi Arabia, Saudi Vision 2030, phone consultation, virtual clinic, electronic medical records, public–private partnerships, and privatization. Vision 2030 endorses the transformation of the public sector to implement international best practices. Saudi Arabia is ready to implement “a family physician for every family” model to reduce morbidity and mortality from noncommunicable diseases while improving quality and cost-effectiveness. The extensive network of health centers, growing number of family physicians, and advanced digitalization can accelerate this. In addition, mobilizing resources and incentives can optimize health promotion and disease prevention.
Encouraging Medical Students to Become Self-Directed Learners through Conduction of Small-Group Learning Sessions
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: September 2024

In the field of medical education, learning among medical students is found to be deeper and more effective, when it happens in small groups. This is primarily because the small-group learning environment enables students to become self-directed learners and also gives them an opportunity to collaborate with other members of the group. An effective small-group learning session will depend upon the discussion skills of the teacher and the students and essentially includes appropriate questioning, listening patiently to the responses of others, responding to the raised questions in a polite and meaningful manner, explanation of the given problem, ensuring active preparation for the session, and smart opening and closure of the sessions. In conclusion, the conduction of an effective small-group learning sessions helps the medical student to become self-directed learner and improve their critical thinking and clinical reasoning skills. It is quite essential that all the medical colleges should include small-group learning sessions within their teaching schedule and help the students to acquire subject competencies.
Advocating Interprofessional Education and Learning in Medical Students during Their Training Period
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: September 2024

The successful practice of medicine requires an effective team work, and in order to be a leader and a contributor to the team, a medical undergraduate student should acquire these traits during their training period. This highlights the need for a medical student and students from other allied health sciences to work and learn in an interprofessional team during their undergraduation period and as a part of the continuing professional development. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out in the PubMed search engine, and relevant research articles published in the period 2009–2020 were included in the review. Interprofessional education and learning have gained considerable importance as it can be looked upon as a strategy to optimize the use of educational resources, reduce the workload of training, and eventually deliver a cost-effective, efficient, and holistic package of services to the beneficiaries. However, in order to ensure smooth execution of interprofessional learning, there is an immense need to perform a thorough curriculum planning and offer support to the staff. In conclusion, the approach to adopt interprofessional education in medical education will play a significant role in improving the competence and capacity of the medical students to be ready for the dynamic challenges of the health-care delivery.
Epidemiology of Malaria in Kot Kashmir and Serai Gambila (District Lakki Marwat), Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Khan Muhammad Ashraf
Published: September 2024

Background and Objectives:

Malaria is one of the serious infections worldwide and is a global major health concern. The preset study aimed to determine the prevalence of malaria in Kot Kashmir (during 2017–2018) and Serai Gambila (in 2015) in the District Lakki Marwat.

Methods:

The retrospective study was conducted by collecting the data recorded in the official registers and data were consolidated into different age groups and months.

Results:

Overall Plasmodium vivax accounted for >98% and Plasmodium falciparum <2% of malaria and males showed 56.5% of malaria. August showed the highest prevalence of 20% cases, while February revealed the lowest prevalence of 2.1% cases. Overall males showed higher rates of malaria than females in all the months and all the age groups except equal rates for the month of February in the age group <5 years and May in the age group of 31–45 years, while the age group of 5–14 years showed the highest prevalence of 242 (41.4%) cases, and the age group of 46–60 years demonstrated the lowest prevalence of 24 (4.1%) cases, and patients of ≤30 years contributed to 85.5% of malaria. Age groups of ≤14 years contributed to 78.2% of malaria in Kot Kashmir, while, age groups of 5–30 years demonstrated 75.7% of malaria in Serai Gambila.

Conclusions:

Overall malaria, as well as vivax malaria in males, steadily increased from April to August followed gradually decreased from the age group of 15–30 years to age group >60 years.
Effectiveness of Mobilization and Postural Correction in the Treatment of Cervicogenic Headache: Protocol for Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rani Monika , Kaur Jaspreet , Bansal Arpit , Malik Manoj
Published: September 2024

Context:

Cervicogenic headache (CGH) is a headache that impairs a patient’s life quality and work productivity. Pharmacological management has been found to show short-term symptomatic relief with adverse effects.

Objective:

The objective is to evaluate the effect of spinal mobilization (SM), postural correction exercises (PC), and neural mobilization (NM), in the treatment of CGH.

Methods:

This study has a 1:1 allocation ratio and is a single-blind randomized controlled trial with concealed allocation conducted at the university physiotherapy department. According to the sample size calculation, we aim to recruit 140 participants. The participants are randomized into 4 groups: The SM group, the PC group, the NM group, and the control group. Headache impact test-6 is the primary end measure and the secondary end measures are neck disability index and headache diary for headache-related parameters (headache frequency, headache intensity, and headache duration). All outcomes measured will be evaluated at week 0 (baseline), after week 4 (postintervention), and after week 8 (follow-up).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Based on the normality of data, parametric/nonparametric tests will be applied.

Results:

The result will be presented in the form of a 95% confidence interval and P value.

Conclusions:

This is the first comprehensive randomized controlled trial evaluating the individual impact of three various physiotherapy approaches and comparing these techniques to know the best treatment options available for CGH.
The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Undergraduate Medical Teaching
Authors: Al-Mazidi Sarah H.
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

To evaluate the tools used during online education and examination of undergraduate medical students from students and medical instructors' experience and means to improve students' and instructors' online education experience in future.

Materials and Methods:

Two surveys were deployed online through social media (WhatsApp, LinkedIn, and Twitter) to medical students and instructors from all medical colleges in Saudi Arabia. The surveys include demographic data, tools used in the education process during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, tools used in students' examination, and both groups' opinions about these tools. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to analyze the items included in the survey. Responses were presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results:

Responses from medical colleges in Saudi Arabia were collected and analyzed with a response rate of 72.2%. Data from 518 students and medical instructors showed that online education transformation had a positive feedback from both students and instructors for theoretical sessions teaching with limitations in the practical and clinical sessions.

Conclusion:

Online education in medical schools is new in Saudi Arabia. This mandatory shift to online teaching made us aware of the importance of restructuring and implementing the medical curriculum to support virtual education, especially in practical and clinical sessions learning.
Saudi Population Perception about Medical Internists, 2020
Authors: Abdullah Dokhaikh Fahad Ali , Alzubaidi Mohammad Ali , Saleh Alghamdi Abdullah Hameed , Alghamdi Abdulaziz Ayedh , Alghamdi Thamer Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Background:

As a specialty, internal medicine's historical and philosophical roots lie in the German medical tradition of the second half of the 19th century. However, what uniquely defines the specialty of internal medicine is certainly not fully captured in its name.

Objective:

To assess the knowledge of Saudi population regarding the scope of internal medicine speciality, 2020.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study that utilized an online questionnaire for data collection. All those who consent and can fill the Arabic online form were eligible to participate in the study. The only exclusion criteria were health-care workers and non-Arabic speakers. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software (SPSS, version 26.0).

Results:

A total of 1692 responses were analyzed, of which 60.7% were females and (76.8%) had university education. The majority (77.5%) see that the term is clear. Of the total sample, only (35.8%) answered correctly when asked about the role of internal medicine doctor. When asked if the term (internal medicine) is clear, educational level and region were significantly associated (P = 0.004, 0.03), respectively.

Conclusion:

The Arabic contrast of the term (internal medicine) may not describe the true meaning or the job of internal medicine doctors as approximately only one third (35.8%) knew the role of medical internists. A variety of factors other than the Arabic synonymous of the term (internal medicine) can influence the understanding of the public to what is internal medicine.
Epidemiological Profiles and Clinical Outcomes of Non-COVID-19 Patients during COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Alsofayan Yousef M. , Alwakeel Trad S. , Alnasser Hebah A. , Alnowaiser Mosaed M. , Alskait Ghada A. , Alotaibi Reema S. , Bashaikh Hanin A. , Almuzaini Yasir S. , Aburas Alhanouf S. , Nofal Abdullah R. , Khan Anas A.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic continues to storm internationally. Various essential services in the health systems have failed to meet the standardized health needs for those non-COVID-19 patients. In this single academic center study, we describe the epidemiological profiles and clinical outcomes on non-COVID-19 patients during COVID-19 pandemic to guide decision-makers in maintaining essential health services and building a structured recovery plan by the end of this pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional single academic center study included 718 non-COVID-19 patients in King Saud University Medical City between March and June 2020. Demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment, and disposition data were extracted from the Hospital Electronic Records, Electronic System for Integrated Health Information database.

Results:

The highest age group was 26–35 years, representing 28.6% (n = 205), and 56% (n = 402) were females. The most common comorbidity was hypertension by 25.5% (n = 183), and the main route of admission was through Emergency Medicine Department, 76.7% (n = 551), and 87% (n = 624) of the admissions were to wards, 13% (n = 92) were to Intensive Care Unit, and 7% (n = 51) were deceased. Based on International Classification of Diseases, Revision 10 classifications, 33.6% (n = 241) had diseases of the respiratory system, 14.5% (n = 104) were obstetrics, and 10.4% (n = 75) were cardiac cases.

Conclusion:

In this single-center study, maintaining essential health-care services is critical during COVID-19 pandemics. Attention should be addressed to extreme ages and to those with pulmonary, obstetric, and cardiac diseases. Mapping decisions taken to curb COVID-19 is critical to structure a solid recovery plan.
Unlocking the Power of Health Datasets and Registries: The Need for Urgent Institutional and National Ownership and Governance Regulations for Research Advancement
Authors: BaHammam Ahmed Salem
Published: September 2024

Health datasets have immense potential to drive research advancements and improve healthcare outcomes. However, realizing this potential requires careful consideration of governance and ownership frameworks. This article explores the importance of nurturing governance and ownership models that facilitate responsible and ethical use of health datasets for research purposes. We highlight the importance of adopting governance and ownership models that enable responsible and ethical utilization of health datasets and clinical data registries for research purposes. The article addresses the important local and international regulations related to the utilization of health data/medical records in research, and emphasizes the urgent need for developing clear institutional and national guidelines on data access, sharing, and utilization, ensuring transparency, privacy, and data protection. By establishing robust governance structures and fostering ownership among stakeholders, collaboration, innovation, and equitable access to health data can be promoted, ultimately unlocking its full power for transformative research and improving global health outcomes.
Pneumothorax as a Complication of COVID-19
Authors: Almalki Abdulrahman Mutlag , Almaghrabi Murouj Adnan , Alharbi Ahmad Hamed , Basahal Ahaad Mohammad , Alharbi Bashaer Ayidh , Alfelali Mohammad , Shabrawishi Mohammed
Published: September 2024

Since the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) outbreak in December 2019, evidence suggests an association between COVID-19 and the onset of pneumothorax (PTX). Thus, the present study aimed to investigate the onset of PTX, the possible risk factors, clinical characteristics, management, prognosis, and mechanism of PTX formation in patients with COVID-19 infection. A systematic review was done using several databases for articles published from December 2019 to January 2021. One-hundred and thirty-nine patients in a total of 87 articles fulfilled our criteria. A broad age range was affected (mean and standard deviation of 57 ± 15.39) with male predominance (77.7%). Most patients (66.2%) developed PTX during the hospital stays. In those who developed PTX, the most recognized characteristics included male gender (77.7%), severe COVID-19 infection (41%), mechanical ventilation (43.2%), age >65 years (30.9%), other diseases (79.1%), and smoking (8.6%). A good prognosis was reported in more than half of the patients (83; 59.7%). Death was significantly associated with critical conditions of COVID-19, bilateral PTX, respiratory distress, and mechanical ventilation (P= 0.006, 0.001, 0.013, and 0.001, respectively). PTX is a potential complication of COVID-19 infections, commonly noticed in the right lung. Mechanical ventilation, COVID-19 severity, bilateral PTX, and acute respiratory distress were associated with worse outcomes in COVID-19 patients with PTX.
Impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) 2019 Pandemic on Clinical Practice, Training, and the Well-being of Dermatology Residents
Authors: AlTuwaijri Rawan , AlHammad Ghadah , Alotaibi Hend M , Ahamed Shaik Shaffi , Alharithy Ru'aa
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic imposed a huge strain on the healthcare system. The role of physical distancing as one of the precautions to limit the viral transmission ultimately led to many restrictions on the dermatology department's workflow with a ripple effect on training and medical education. In this study, we aim to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dermatology trainees using an online questionnaire. We believe that the result of this research will help to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on medical training and the trainees' well-being.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study carried out between July and November 2020. The target population of our study included all dermatology residents under the training of The Saudi Board of Dermatology in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The questionnaire was formed through Google Forms which included 37 questions in English, arranged in four sections. These sections include: the basic demographic characteristics, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on residents' training, the effect of the transformation into a virtual learning environment, and afinally, the residents' well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results:

A total of 31 responses were collected from dermatology residents in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Of all the residents, more than half (56.7%) indicated that the COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on their residency training and progress. All the resident respondents reported that their programs had converted to using remote platforms to continue educational activities during the pandemic. A large number of dermatology residents (40%) enrolled in the study were found to be suffering from severe anxiety.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, COVID-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on the training of dermatology residents. Mostly, as a result of the very limited exposure of one-on-one patient contact, many clinical hours of training have been lost. Therefore, measures and real solutions should be taken to overcome this loss of clinical training hours experienced by dermatology residents.
Evaluation of an Antifungal Property of Curcuma caesia a Traditional Herb against Candida Species: An In vitro Study
Authors: Dineja Raman , Savithri S. , Rajkumar Krishnan , Bose Divya , Vasanthi V.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Candidiasis is a common mucocutaneous fungal infection mainly caused by Candida albicans. Infection can occur in moist areas especially in skin folds, genital cuticle, and also in oral mucosa. Oropharyngeal candidiasis will cause white plaques on oral mucosa. Nowadays resistance is developing for all diseases. In that way when there is any resistance to regular antifungal drugs, natural herbs will be an excellent option to overcome the situation.

Aim:

Antifungal property with minimal inhibitory concentration of Curcuma caesia (Kali haldi, black turmeric) is evaluated against C. albicans and also to find the zone of inhibition for C. caesia against C. albicans and Candida glabrata.

Materials and Methods:

Alcoholic extract of C. caesia was prepared. Zone of inhibition for C. albicans and C. glabrata was performed by well-diffusion method and antifungal property with minimum inhibitory concentration for C. caesia against C. albicans was done by Agar dilution method.

Results:

Zone of inhibition is present at about 21 mm against C. albicans and C. glabrata, Minimum inhibitory concentration is also found at 1 mg of C. caesia alcoholic extract. The results are statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

C. caesia can be used as an antifungal agent when traditional antifungal treatment is not working or in any cases of antifungal resistance.
Willingness of Saudi Health-care Students to Volunteer during Disasters
Authors: Al Assaf Wajdan Ibrahim , Al Khoudairy Reema Sultan , Al Awad Sara Saleem , Alqahtani Jawza Mana , AlAhmari Razan Ahmed , Al Harbi Mariam Hamad , Al Shehri Reham Saleh
Published: September 2024

Objectives:

This study aims to measure health-care students' willingness to volunteer in disaster situations during the Hajj season. In addition, it provides an assessment of the barriers that may prevent them from volunteering, as well as their perceptions of the required skills to be able to volunteer and be a part of response teams.

Materials and Methods:

This multicenter study, using a convenience sample including 774 students from health colleges in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, was conducted between September 2019 and April 2020. Data were analyzed using the SPSS 21. The variables were expressed in percentages as appropriate. A Chi-squared test was used to determine the association between qualitative variables.

Results:

This study indicates that 95% of health-care students were willing to volunteer during disasters, especially in wound care, patient follow-up, and triage. Their lack of knowledge and skills was one of the obstacles that affected their willingness to volunteer (55.9%). Of the participants, 79.6% would volunteer during the Hajj season, but family agreement, long distance, and fear of cross-infections were the most significant barriers preventing them from volunteering. Students agreed that cardiopulmonary resuscitation and first aid skills should be acquired to render assistance.

Conclusions:

The willingness to volunteer during disasters is high among health-care students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, even though enormous barriers are preventing them from doing so.
Oral fibrolipoma: A rare clinicopathological entity
Authors: Tandon Aanchal , Srivastava Abhinav , Jaiswal Rohit , Gaur Amit
Published: September 2024

Fibrolipoma, a subtype of lipoma, is a painless, well-circumscribed, slow-growing, submucosal benign adipocyte tumour. It is uncommon in the oral cavity and oropharyngeal region. It accounts for 1.6% of all facial lipomas. Fibrolipomas mostly affect the buccal mucosa and buccal vestibule and cause functional and cosmetic disabilities. The diagnosis and differentiation of fibrolipoma with clinically similar lesions such as fibroma and pleomorphic adenoma are very essential for a correct treatment plan and complete follow-up. Here, we present fibrolipoma, a very rare subtype of lipoma involving the buccal mucosa of the left premolar region in a 44-year-old male patient.
Orofacial granulomatosis as a manifestation of sarcoidosis: A rare case report
Authors: Galohda Arpit , Shreehari AK
Published: September 2024

Orofacial granulomatosis (OFG) is an uncommon clinicopathological condition describing patients who have oral lesions characterized by persistent labial enlargement, oral ulcers and a variety of other orofacial features. Sarcoidosis is a systemic non-caseating granulomatous disorder of unknown etiology that may affect multiple organ systems. As a systemic disease, it is well documented in existing literature. However, the rarity and its often non-specific oral manifestation emphasize the need to reinforce the literature with more clinical case examples and draw additional attention to clinical features that general practitioners may encounter. In this report, a rare case is presented with definite association of sarcoidosis and orofacial granulomatosis with two years follow up after treatment. This report aims to expand the literature surrounding orofacial sarcoidosis and support oral and general health practitioners in recognizing its orofacial manifestations along with the clinical presentations that all led to a diagnosis of sarcoidosis in this case.
Assessment of salivary and gingival crevicular fluids IL6, IL-8, IL-12, and IL-17 levels in healthy subjects and patients with periodontal disease
Authors: Majeed Zeyad N. , Jassim Sura D. , Kamil Zainab H.
Published: September 2024

Background:

Biomarkers present in the oral fluid (saliva and GCF) have been studied thoroughly in order to be used as adjuncts to the diagnosis of periodontal disease. In periodontal diseases, inflammatory mediators, including IL6, IL-8, IL-12, and IL-17, may promote the degeneration of periodontal tissues.

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to quantify IL6, IL-8, IL-12, and IL-17 levels in the saliva and GCF for patients with generalized periodontitis and compare it with healthy subjects. Furthermore, identifying the most reliable biofluids (saliva and GCF) that can be utilized for biomarkers detection in periodontitis patients.

Methods and Material:

In this study, GCF and saliva samples were collected from 40 patients with generalized periodontitis and 20 healthy subjects. Enzyme-linked immune absorbent assay (ELISA) was used in the measurement of interleukin levels.

Results and Conclusions:

The mean levels of IL6, IL-8, IL-12, and IL-17 either in saliva or GCF were higher in periodontitis patients than in healthy subjects. These results suggest that the levels of IL6, IL-8, IL-12, and IL-17 in GCF or saliva may be relevant in the pathophysiology of periodontitis, and the measurement of these cytokines may be beneficial in the identification of patients with periodontitis. Furthermore, some biomarkers for periodontal disease are detected better in saliva, while others are best detected in GCF.
To evaluate the role of lactate dehydrogenase as biomarker in the progression of potentially malignant disorders in smokers and gutkha chewers
Authors: Mediconda Shivaratna , Abidullah Mohammed , Velidandla Surekha
Published: September 2024

Aim:

To evaluate the role of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as a biomarker in the progression of potentially malignant disorders in smokers and gutkha chewers.

Material and Methods:

The total of 70 individuals having the habit of chewing gutkha and smoking were selected for the study and divided into four groups. Group 1: 20 individuals having the habit of smoking, Group 2: 20 individuals having the habit of chewing gutkha, Group 3: 20 individuals having the habit of smoking and gutkha chewing, and Group 4: 10 healthy individuals.

Results:

In the present study showed that unstimulated whole saliva from group 1, group 2, and group 3 individuals, there was a significant decrease in isoenzymes LDH-1 and LDH-2 and there was no effect on LDH-3 isoenzyme. In the present study, there is a significant increase in salivary isoenzyme LDH-4. The result indicated that there is an effect of carcinogen (tobacco)–enhanced activity on salivary LDH. The present study showed 70 volunteers reported a statistical significant correlation among the groups. The individuals with habit of smoking and gutkha chewing showed P value <.001 with a significant increase in the isoenzyme LDH-4. A significant increase in the buccal micronuclei of exfoliated cells in the oral mucosal cells of smokers and gutkha chewers. This shows a positive relationship between LDH isoenzymes and the individuals with the smoking and chewing of tobacco.

Conclusion:

There was a significant correlation between the levels of salivary LDH isoenzymes and cytomorphometric analysis of oral epithelium in smokers and gutkha chewers.
The emerging concern of oral pemphigus vulgaris arising post-COVID-19 infection: A case series
Authors: Gunardi Indrayadi , Hartanto Firstine Kelsi , Amtha Rahmi , Nadiah Najla , Sari Elizabeth Fitriana
Published: September 2024

Cases of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) appear with a very diverse pattern of health manifestation, in which the immune system plays a major driver of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection outcomes. The uncontrolled immune response of SARS-CoV-2 infection could possibly lead to autoimmune diseases, as we observed increased cases of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) post-COVID-19 infection. PV is an autoimmune life-threatening mucocutaneous disease that is very rarely induced by certain drugs or substance. The link between COVID-19 infection and autoimmune diseases is still unknown. This study outline the possible link with PV following infection of COVID-19. A case series of three females and one male between the ages of 33 and 57 with no history of drug-induced illness or allergy were observed in our current case series. All patients previously contracted SARS-CoV-2. The lesions were treated with systemic and oral corticosteroid was given as a basic treatment for PV lesions. Immunomodulator agent was added as an adjunct to reduce the effects of steroid and to decrease the severity of PV. In conclusion, clinicians should be vigilant of the potential emergence of autoimmune reaction following the COVID-19 pandemic. Further investigation is required to unfold the unclear mechanism of PV induced by SARS-CoV-2. We hypothesized that the genetic aberrance inferred by this viral infection might trigger autoimmune diseases and may not limit to PV.