bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ameliorative effect of Punica granatum on sperm parameters in rats exposed to mobile radioelectromagnetic radiation
Authors: Banavath Anjaneyababu Naik , Srinivasa Sridevi Nangali
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To study the effect of mobile emitted radio frequency electromagnetic radiation (RF-EMR) on sperm parameters (sperm count, viability, motility, progressivity, and morphology) and ameliorative effect of pomegranate juice in rats.

Methods:

Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into five groups (n=6 in each group). Group I was neither exposed to RF-EMR nor given pomegranate juice, group II, III and IV were exposed to mobile emitted RF-EMR for 60 min/day for 90 days. After 90-day exposure to RF-EMR, group III was supplemented with pomegranate juice for 90 days (1 mL/day) and group IV was allowed to recover for 90 days without supplementation of pomegranate juice. Group V was supplemented with pomegranate juice for 90 days without exposure to RF-EMR. At the end of intervention, epididymal sperm parameters (sperm count, viability, motility, progressivity, and morphology) were measured.

Results:

The microscopic examination of sperm parameters such as sperm count, sperm viability, sperm motility, progressivity were significantly decreased in group II (the mobile RF-EMR group) compared to group I (the control group) (P<0.05). In addition, sperm morphology was also significantly altered (abnormal) in group II compared to group I (P<0.05). However, the sperm parameters including sperm morphology were significantly altered in group III (mobile RF-EMR + pomegranate juice) compared to group II (P<0.05). The sperm parameters including sperm morphology were not significantly altered in group IV (the mobile RF-EMR recovery group) compared to group II (P>0.05). The sperm parameters were non-significantly increased in group V (the pomegranate juice group) compared to group I (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

Mobile RF-EMR exposure reduces the sperm parameters, which, however, can be reversed by treatment with pomegranate juice, indicating that pomegranate juice can be used as a nutritional supplement to improve sperm quality.
In-vitro effect of Peganum harmala total alkaloids on spermatozoa quality and oxidative stress of epididymal ram semen
Authors: Derbak Hanane , Moussaoui Mohamed , Benberkane Amine , Ayad Abdelhanine
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To determine the in-vitro effect of the total alkaloid extract of Peganum (P.) harmala seeds on ram epididymal sperm.

Methods:

Semen was divided into six groups according to the following concentrations of the P. harmala total alkaloids: 1, 5, 10, 50, and 100 μg/mL, and the control group. The samples were incubated at ambient temperature (21 °C-24 °C) for 24 h, and analyzed in terms of motility, membrane integrity, and oxidative status.

Results:

The sperm kinematic parameters, i.e. straight-line velocity, curvilinear velocity, average path velocity, were significantly higher when treated with P. harmala at concentrations ranging from 1 to 10 μg/mL compared to the control group (P<0.05). In addtion, the highest amplitude of the lateral head displacement value was found in the groups treated with concentrations 1 and 5 μg/mL of P. harmala compared to the control group (P<0.05). Total and progressive motilities showed that the extracts at 1, 5, and 10 μg/mL exhibited a high percentage after 24 h of incubation. The effect of P. harmala extracts on the membrane integrity of ram epididymal sperm was concentration-dependent and significantly different compared to the control group (P<0.05). Non-significantly lower lipid peroxidation levels were observed after 24 h of incubation of ram epididymal sperm treated with concentrations 1, 5, and 10 μg/mL of P. harmala extracts compared to the control group (P>0.05).

Conclusions:

Low concentrations (1-10 μg/mL) of P. harmala extracts stimulate sperm motility, preserve membrane integrity and protect ram spermatozoa from lipid peroxidation.
An implementation study of barriers to universal cervical length screening for preterm birth prevention at tertiary hospitals in Thailand
Authors: Titapant Vitaya , Chawanpaiboon Saifon , Anuwutnavin Sanitra , Kanjanapongporn Attapol , Pooliam Julaporn , Tangwiwat Pimolphan
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To identify healthcare managers’ perspectives on the barriers to implementing cervical length screening to prevent preterm births.

Methods:

In Phase I, 10 healthcare managers were interviewed. Phase II comprised questionnaire development and data validation. In Phase III, the questionnaire was administered to 40 participants, and responses were analyzed.

Results:

Their average related work experience was (21.0±7.2) years; 39 (97.5%) respondents also had healthcare management responsibilities at their respective hospitals. Most hospitals were reported to have enough obstetricians (31 cases, 77.5%) and to be able to accurately perform cervical length measurements (22 cases, 55.0%). However, no funding was allocated to universal cervical length screening (39 cases, 97.5%). Most respondents believed that implementing universal screening, as per Ministry of Public Health policies, would prevent preterm births (28 cases, 70.0%). Moreover, they suggested that hospital fees for cervical length measurements should be waived (34 cases, 85.0%). Three main perceived barriers to universal screening at tertiary hospitals were identified. They were heavy obstetrician workloads (20 cases, 50.0%); inadequate numbers of medical personnel (24 cases, 60.0%); not believing that the screening test could prevent preterm birth (8 cases, 20%) and lack of free drug support for preterm birth prevention in high-risk cases (29 cases, 72.5%).

Conclusions:

The main obstacles to universal cervical length screening are heavy staff workloads and inadequate government funding for ultrasound scanning and hormone therapy. The healthcare managers do not believe that the universal cervical length screening can help to reduce preterm birth.
Effects of enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants in diluents on cryopreserved bull epididymal sperm
Authors: Sakhdary Hasan , Farshad Abbas , Rostamzadeh Jalal , Binabaj Fateme Bahri , Sobhani Keyvan
Published: January 2022

Objective:

To evaluate the supplementation effects of vitamin E, vitamin C, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase to diluents on bull cryopreserved epididymal sperm.

Methods:

Sperm were retrieved from 20 bull testes and were then supplemented with 0.1 mM vitamin E, 5.0 mM vitamin C, 100.0 IU/mL SOD, and 100.0 μg/mL catalase alone, or in a combination. The control treatment contained no addition. After supplementation, samples were frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen. The sperm parameters including motility, progressive motility, viability, acrosome integrity, plasma membrane integrity, kinematics and DNA damage were evaluated following the thawing process.

Results:

Vitamin E alone significantly increased the parameters of acrosome and membrane integrity compared to the control treatment (P<0.05). While compared to the control treatment, vitamin C had no improvement effect on sperm characteristics except for membrane integrity. Treatment of vitamin E+vitamin C had a significant improvement in total motility, progressive motility, viability, membrane and acrosome integrity compared to the control and other treatments (P<0.05). Compared to the control treatment, addition of SOD or catalase alone significantly improved the percentages of total motility, progressive motility, viability, membrane and acrosome integrity (P<0.05). Furthermore, SOD+catalase significantly increased total motility, progressive motility, viability, acrosome and membrane integrity characteristics compared to the catalase treatment (P<0.05). Vitamin E alone, vitamin E+vitamin C, and SOD in diluents decreased DNA damages and thereby improved the rate of intact sperm heads.

Conclusions:

Addition of 100.0 IU/mL SOD alone and 0.1 mM vitamin E+5.0 mM vitamin C, and also 5.0 mM vitamin C+100 μg/mL catalase in a combination improves the quality of cryopreserved bull epididymal sperm and could be used for cryopreservation.
Ocular crowding value in Egyptians with history of acute angle-closure crisis
Authors: Sherief Mohammed I.A. , Hamdi Momen M. , Hssab Hassan A. , Mousa Amr S.
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the biometric characteristics of Egyptian patients with history of acute angle-closure crisis (AACC).

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective case–control study that included 20 patients aged 18 years and older. They were divided into three groups: group 1, which included 10 patients who had history of AACC in one eye; group 2, which included the fellow eyes of the patients with AACC who served as control eyes; and group 3, which included 10 normal volunteers participating with one eye as normal controls. Biometric parameters of the eyes were acquired and the ocular crowding value (OCV − defined as lens thickness+central corneal thickness − anterior chamber depth/axial length) was calculated for each eye. Receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted, and biometric variables were compared to compile a risk assessment for AACC.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference in the OCV between the different eye groups. The OCV had a 90.0% sensitivity and 75.0% specificity at a cutoff value above 0.1045. Eyes with AACC had significantly thicker lens (P=0.008), shallower anterior chamber depth (P<0.001), and shorter axial length (P<0.001) than healthy eyes.

Conclusion

The OCV might be a noncontact screening method to assess the risk of AACC in adults.
Corneal endothelial changes in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Mahmoud Shahira , Naga Yasmine S. , Khabiry Mohab E. , Morsy Mahmoud Hassan
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of chronic kidney disease and duration of hemodialysis on the corneal endothelium.

Patients and methods

This case–control study included 78 participants who were divided into three groups: group I: the dialyzed group, group II: the nondialyzed group, and group III: age-matched control group. The endothelial cell density (ECD), average area of endothelial cells, SD, coefficient of variation, percentage of hexagonal cells, and central corneal thickness (CCT) were compared between the three groups. The effect of blood urea, serum creatinine, and duration of dialysis on corneal endothelium was studied in the dialyzed group.

Results

The ECD was statistically significantly less in the dialyzed group compared with the nondialyzed and control groups (2345.19±307.34, 2428.46±349.38, and 2481.23±286.16 cells/mm2, respectively, P<0.001). In addition, the percentage of hexagonal cells was significantly less in the dialyzed group compared with the nondialyzed and control groups (41.27±9.73, 69.42±6.16, and 68.54±5.58%, respectively, P<0.001). Meanwhile, the following parameters were significantly higher in the dialyzed group than the nondialyzed and control groups: average area of endothelial cells area (434.23±63.20, 420±66.98, and 408.08±48.80 µm2, respectively, P<0.001), SD (170.96±48.19, 127±36.18, and 117±20.56, respectively, P<0.001), and coefficient variation of size (39.35±7.52, 31.88±7.07, and 30.54±5.82%, respectively, P<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in the CCT between the three groups (536.19±55.24, 543.42±37.80, and 539.85±38.44 µm, respectively, P=0.84). A significant negative correlation was found between ECD and the blood urea (P=0.005) and creatinine levels (P=0.03), while the correlation with coefficient variation of size, hexagonality, and CCT was not statistically significant.

Conclusion

Patients with chronic kidney disease have endothelial cell changes that may compromise the results of intraocular surgery. Awareness among physicians about these changes may help better planning of intraocular surgeries when needed.
Changes in corneal asphericity and spherical aberration after femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis
Authors: El-Kateb Mohamed
Published: January 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the changes in corneal asphericity (Q value) and spherical aberration after femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis using Scheimpflug imaging.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective nonrandomized study that included 170 myopic eyes and 30 hyperopic eyes. All patients had wave front-optimized femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis using the EX-500 and FS200 machines (WaveLight, Alcon). Patients within ±0.50 diopter (D) of plano-refraction and with an uncorrected distance visual acuity of at least 20/20 were evaluated. The Q values and corneal spherical aberration Zernike values were obtained using Scheimpflug imaging (Oculyzer II) preoperatively and 1–3 months postoperatively.

Results

The mean preoperative Q value was −0.28±0.11 and −0.22±0.15 in myopic and hyperopic eyes, respectively, and became +0.35±0.44 and −0.64±0.31, respectively, postoperatively. The asphericity change was highly correlated with the preoperative spherical equivalent (r
2=0.81, P≤0.001). The mean preoperative corneal spherical aberration was +0.21±0.08 µm in the myopic eyes, and +0.36±0.11 µm in the hyperopic eyes and became +0.36±0.17 and 0.00±0.29 µm, respectively, postoperatively. The corneal spherical aberration changes were correlated with the amount of preoperative refractive error (r
2=0.34, P<0.001). There was a tendency for the Q values and spherical aberrations to become more positive after myopic ablation and more negative after hyperopic ablation.

Conclusions

Myopic and hyperopic corrections induced changes in the Q value and spherical aberrations in opposite directions (i.e. positive in myopic and negative in hyperopic eyes). The changes depend on the magnitude of the refractive correction.
Difference between Diabetic Macular Edema and Pseudophakic Macular Edema Using Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Abdelfattah Mostafa Kamel , Ali Omar Mohamed , Othman Gamal-Eldin Rashed , Hussein Mohamed Shehata
Published: January 2022

Context:

Macular edema (ME) is a common pathologic condition causing vision impairment. Diabetic retinopathy is a common cause of ME which can also develop after cataract surgery. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a noninvasive diagnostic technique that provides imaging of fine retinal details. Proper diagnosis of the underlying etiology shall affect the management.

Aims:

This study aims to differentiation between diabetic and pseudophakic ME (DME and PME) using OCT.

Settings and Design:

Cross-sectional study of 2 Groups; A: 30 eyes with DME and B: 20 eyes with PME.

Subjects and Methods:

Full clinical evaluation, OCT scanning, and data analysis were done for both groups.

Statistical Analysis Used:

SPSS software v. 16 was used for: Descriptive statistics, mean, range, and standard deviation. Student's t-test was used for comparison between means. Pearson correlation coefficient was used to assess correlation between variables.

Results:

Maximum macular thickness and central macular thickness were elevated in both groups but were higher in PME group (P = 0.042 and P = 0.00001, respectively). Macular thickness/volume ratio (TVR) was higher in PME group (P = 0.00001). Cystic changes had different distribution patterns; ganglion cell layer and retinal nerve fiber layer layers were free in PME(Pseudophakic macular edema) while inner nuclear layer and outer nuclear layer were affected in both groups (P = 0.0061). Epiretinal membranes were found much more in DME group (P = 0.0452). Dome-shaped macula was frequently noticed in PME group (P = 0.043).

Conclusions:

PME and DME have different OCT features; higher TVR, dome-shaped macula, absence of ERM suggest PME while lower TVR, presence of inner retinal cysts and/or ERM suggest DME.
Safety and long-Term Outcomes of Repeated Dexamethasone Intravitreal Implant (OZURDEX®) for the Management of Macular Edema
Authors: Abdellaoui Meriem , El Bahloul Meriem , Bennis Ahmed , Chraïbi Fouad , Najdi Adil , Benatiya Idriss Andaloussi
Published: January 2022

Purpose:

This study to assess the efficacy and the safety of repeated dexamethasone intravitreal implant (Ozurdex®) in vascular macular edema in real-life practice.

Materials and Methods:

This was a 22-month prospective study, including eyes with vascular macular edema according to the inclusion criteria. Baseline and follow-up visits included best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) measurement, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, dilated fundoscopy, intraocular pressure (IOP) measurement, and central macular thickness (CMT) measurement with optical coherence tomography. Main outcomes included changes in BCVA and CMT at the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 6th months; time to retreatment; and incidence of side effects.

Results:

A total of 31 eyes of 24 patients were included in the present study. After the first intravitreal injection, BCVA (baseline 0.940 ± 0.463 LogMAR) improved significantly to 0.483 ± 0.323 LogMAR at 2nd month (P = 0.000), 0.657 ± 0.357 at 4th month (P = 0.000), and 0.690 ± 0,448 at 6th month (P = 0.001). Mean CMT (baseline = 582.51 ± 148.20) decreased statistically significantly at 2nd month and 4th month after the first intravitreal injection (245.87 ± 103.86 and 456.68 ± 182.735, respectively, both P < 0.001 vs. baseline). At the 6th month, CMT was 407.93 ± 212.70 for the 16 eyes that had not been reinjected versus baseline CMT 576.93 ± 158.56 (P = 0.008). After other Ozurdex® injections, we had the same visual acuity gain and CMT reduction, an average of 2.03 ± 0.83 injections were done. The most common side effects were cataract development and rise in IOP.

Conclusion:

Ozurdex® implant is an effective treatment for vascular macular edema with a good safety profile; however, its effectiveness seems to decrease with time requiring repeated injections.
Forgoing the Opportunity and Ordaining the Preventable Catastrophe
Authors: Kulkarni Raghavendra S. , Kulkarni Rachana A. , Kulkarni SriRam R.
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

The previous history of fracture in the elderly confers an increased risk of subsequent future fracture. The aim of this study is to identify what proportion of fragility distal radius fracture with subsequent skeletal fracture had their osteoporosis investigation and treatment was addressed in the interval between two events.

Materials and Methods:

It is a retrospective study of 272 isolated, low-energy distal radius fractures above the age of 50 years, between 2011 and 2015. In addition, during the same period in the same hospital, all patients above 50 years with other skeletal injuries with the previous history of distal radius fracture were also identified. Both groups were cross referenced to produce a single cohort of patients with both injuries. It was also examined whether the patients had received any treatment relating to osteoporosis before they sustained a subsequent fracture.

Results:

A study cohort of 28 distal radius fracture patients with subsequent other skeletal injuries were identified. Out of these, 2 (7.1%) patients were treated for osteoporosis and 26 (92.9%) were not. The differences in event rates between patients with and without osteoporosis treatment were statistically highly significant (P > 0.001).

Conclusions:

A substantial proportion of hospitalized elderly, fragility distal radius fracture patients were not sufficiently evaluated and treated for their potential risk of osteoporosis. This issue warrants osteoporosis to be addressed by multidisciplinary approach to prevent further fracture.
Unusual Presentation of Tuberculous Osteitis Distal Fibula
Authors: John Ann Maria , Thomas Varghese , Pillai Manju Gopinathan , Theckanal John George , Sebastian John Ponnezhathu
Published: January 2022

We present the case of a 10-year-old boy presenting with pain and swelling on the lateral aspect of the left ankle associated with occasional fever of 1-month duration. Before he presented to us, he was treated with antibiotics and anti-inflammatory agents on two occasions in a local hospital for the same complaints. The swelling disappeared and mild pain persisted. The inflammatory markers were high, and the X-ray was not typical of either pyogenic infection or Ewing's sarcoma. Hence, a biopsy was done and the material was sent for histopathological and bacteriological studies. The histopathology report was typical of tuberculosis. The child became asymptomatic after antituberculous treatment. The case is presented because of the unusual clinical and radiological presentation of tuberculosis in one of the rarest sites reported in the literature.
The Esthetic Reverse Adipofascial Cross-finger Flap for Nail Bed and Pulp Defects
Authors: Joseph Subin , Samantaray Srikant Aruna , Shet Srivatsa M. , Koyappathody Hafiz Muhammed , Kalathingal Kader
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Unlike volar or pulp defects of fingers, nail bed loss or defects are challenging for plastic and hand surgeons. It is difficult to achieve the best esthetic fingernails following nail bed defects. The reverse adipofascial cross-finger flap is a promising option for reconstructing more natural-looking fingernails.

Materials and Methods:

Twelve patients who underwent reverse adipofascial cross-finger flap for nail and pulp defects were reviewed.

Results:

All patients were satisfied with the esthetic appearance of their nail plate and color. Overall, 83.3% of patients graded their finger as excellent and good, compared to the normal finger on the opposite hand.
Current Overview on Masquelet Technique
Authors: Kasha Srinivas , Yalamanchili Ranjith Kumar
Published: January 2022

Masquelet technique or induced membrane technique has gained wide popularity and is now widely accepted as a simple and effective technique for the reconstruction of segmental bone defects. The technique is founded on the concept that the enclosed foreign body induces a tissue response, which leads to the formation of a surrounding biological active membrane termed as “induced membrane.” The technique was initially described for bone loss resulting from septic nonunion of the leg, and it has been extended to all long bone segments, including the clavicle, whatever may be the etiology of the bone defect. In this review, we describe the current overview of the Masquelet technique over the last decade.
Can Preoperative Screening for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Effectively Predict Surgical Site Infections in Spine Surgeries?
Authors: Pillai Suresh S. , Dennison Premdeep , Manikandan T. , Sudarsana J.
Published: January 2022

Introduction:

Hospital care-associated infections prolong hospital stay and thus increased financial burden, causes long-term disability and mortality in patients and can increase resistance of microorganisms to antimicrobials. Surgical site infections (SSIs) are the most frequent type of hospital care-associated infections in the developing countries. Staphylococcus is the most commonly isolated organism with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) posing a great threat. The most common human reservoir for S. aureus is the nares. We propose a study to evaluate the efficacy of preoperative screening of MRSA by nasal and throat culture by correlating it with postoperative SSI.

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Purpose of the Study:

1. To determine the prevalence of MRSA colonization in a population of patients scheduled for elective spine surgery. 2. To determine whether preoperative nasal and throat swab cultures for MRSA are predictive of postoperative SSI in patients undergoing spine surgery.

Materials and Methods:

Two hundred and forty-eight patients who underwent spine surgery at Baby Memorial Hospital, Calicut, from December 2018 onward are included in this study. Patients who had spine surgeries for infections were excluded from the study. Patients who developed postoperative SSIs were cross-checked with preoperative data and analyzed whether the infecting organism is same as in the preoperative nasal and throat swab culture (if it is present). The significance of the correlation between preoperative nasal and throat swab culture and postoperative SSI are assessed statistically with Chi-square test.

Discussion:

Among the 248 patients in this study, preoperative nasal and throat swab culture yielded MRSA in 27 patients (nasal – 24, throat – 2, and both – 1). Out of 248 patients, 6 patients developed SSIs with MRSA, but none of them had MRSA in preoperative nasal or throat swab culture.

Conclusion:

Preoperative MRSA screening by throat and nasal swab is not routinely needed in spine surgery as it appears to carry no positive predictive value in postoperative SSIs.
Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum Injection in the Treatment of Dupuytren's Contracture
Authors: Reddy Gandavaram Srikanth , Kattimani Raviprasad , Dojode Chetan M , Bhattacharjee Dhritiman , Mohil Randeep
Published: January 2022

Background:

Dupuytren's Contracture is a condition affecting the fascia in hands and fingers causing finger bends in toward the palm. This debilitating disease can affect the activities of daily living. Surgery has been the main stay of treatment, but it is not devoid of complications. Recently, Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum injection has shown better results. There is concern over the efficacy and safety. There is a need for a systematic review that provides high-quality evidence to help surgeons choose the appropriate treatment.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the Collagenase Clostridium histolyticum injection by assessing the outcome; correction of deformity, increase in range of movement (ROM) of the finger, and patient satisfaction and also to identify the adverse reactions and recurrence rate.

Methods:

A systematic review was undertaken. Literature search was done using strict search criteria from electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, BNI, and Cochrane Library) and trial registers. Two independent authors conducted the study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment of each study. Narrative approach to data synthesis was adopted.

Results:

Four randomized controlled trials, four observational studies, and two follow-up studies were included. In all the studies, favorable outcomes in deformity correction and increase in ROM were found. Injection treatment had more mild-to-moderate complications which was statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The review suggests favorable outcome following collagenase injection, especially in metacarpophalygeal joint contractures. More research is needed to assess its efficacy in proximal interphalygeal joints. There is a need for cost analysis between injection and surgical treatment.
Corticosteroids Utilization in the Management of Critically Ill Coronavirus Disease-2019 Pneumonia
Authors: Yang Cheng , Zhang Jiahao , Dou Rongzhang , Sun Zhongyi , Yang Jie , He Li , Jiang Nanhui , Huang Rong , Yuan Feng , Xiao Guanfa , Gan Quan , Lu Qiaofa , Peng Zhiyong , Su Lianjiu
Published: January 2022

Abstract

Background:

There are controversies regarding corticosteroids using in coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia in the current pandemic.

Objectives:

This study investigates the efficacy and safety profiles of corticosteroids therapy in COVID-19 patients.

Methods:

Retrospective, multicenter study case series of consecutive patients with confirmed COVID-19 infection at the whole hospital from January 1 to March 1, 2020, were enrolled. Demographic, clinical, radiological, laboratory, and treatment data were collected and analyzed. The effect of corticosteroids therapy on death and organ-failure complications of pneumonia were analyzed by logistic regression.

Results:

A total of 470 COVID-19 patients at the whole hospital were enrolled. According to the time of corticosteroids initiation and severity of illness, there were 159 patients stratified into critical ill group and 64% (102 of 159) patients received corticosteroids treatments. Ninety-four percent (166 of 176) of corticosteroids were methylprednisolone. The median cumulative corticosteroids dosage was 300 mg equivalent of methylprednisolone over a median duration of 6 days. Multivariate regression analysis showed that corticosteroids use did not affect the mortality. However, corticosteroids therapy at moderate cumulative doses (total exposure 480 mg to 1200 mg) was associated with deceased occurrence of organ-failure complications in critically ill COVID-19.

Conclusions:

Corticosteroids have no effect to mortality in COVID-19 patients. The moderate cumulative doses of corticosteroids might decrease organ-failure complications in critically ill COVID-19. Further large-scale randomized controlled trials are warranted to confirm our findings, until then use of corticosteroids should be used with caution COVID-19 patients.
Molecular Characterization of Dengue Viruses during an Outbreak in Kolkata: A Hospital-Based Study
Authors: Mukherjee Kheya , Sarkar Rehena , Bhattacharjee Debojyoti , Baske Upasana , Manna Asis , Das Oindrila
Published: January 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Dengue, a mosquito-borne viral infection in the tropical regions of the world, has recently become a major public health concern. In West Bengal, several outbreaks of dengue fever occurred in the past few years. In the present study, serological analysis, molecular detection, and serotyping of dengue virus were done to identify the serotype/s presently circulating in the region.

Methods:

The present study was conducted for a period of 1 year from November 2017 to October 2018 in the Department of Microbiology, ID and BG Hospital, Kolkata. 5240 blood samples collected from clinically suspected dengue fever cases were screened for dengue specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibody by MAC-ELISA and NS1 antigen by NS1 ELISA according to the duration of fever as per the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program guidelines. Molecular detection and serotyping were done in 70 NS1 positive samples by nested reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction.

Results:

Total 5240 samples were tested for dengue. About 30.48% (1597) were serologically reactive for dengue infection (either IgM or NS1). Among these, 80.52% (1286) were NS1 reactive and 19.47% (311) were IgM reactive. Male predominance (66.37%) was observed throughout the study period. A post monsoon season peak was also noted in our study. DEN2 was found as most prevalent serotype presently circulating in the region.

Conclusions:

Laboratory-based active surveillance system is required which can forecast dengue epidemics by detecting increasing number of dengue cases or changing pattern in the prevalent serotype as a specific serotype (viz.DEN2) is associated with higher incidence of complications. This will help alert the public and physicians to diagnose properly and treat cautiously the complicated dengue cases.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Regarding Food Hygiene among Food Handlers of Eating Establishments of a Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Sakore Deepika Nanabhau , Parande Malangori Abdulgani , Bhattacharya Susmita
Published: January 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Food handler is any person who handles food, regardless whether he/she actually prepares or serves it. The chances of food getting contaminated depend on their knowledge of food hygiene and its application. Any incidence of food-borne diseases that affect medical students and doctors can result not only in sickness absenteeism but also in case of transmission of pathogen to patients and their relatives which ultimately affect the health care services to a great extent. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of food hygiene and safety among food handlers of eating establishments of medical college and attached hospital.

Materials and Methods:

A present, cross-sectional study conducted among all the food handlers of food establishments in the premises of Medical College and attached General Hospital in Pune in June–July 2017 selected by the universal sampling method. They were interviewed with prestructured questionnaire. The data were entered in MS excel and analyzed using Epi Info version 7.2.

Results:

A total 105 food handlers, mean age of 29.4 ± 11.02 years were enrolled. Maximum study participants 71 (67.6%) had good knowledge, 74 (70.5%) had favorable attitude, and 82 (78.1%) had good practice. There was positive relationship between both knowledge and attitude, knowledge and practice, also attitude and practice. It can be anticipated that as knowledge will increase, attitude, and practice will improve accordingly.

Conclusion:

Education, training, and the development of food safety certification examinations are the key components in the process of ensuring that food handlers are proficient in and knowledgeable about food safety and sanitation principles.
Envisaging the Structured Implementation of Peer-Assisted Learning among Medical Undergraduates
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Shrivastava Prateek Saurabh
Published: January 2022

ABSTRACT

The study of medicine poses an immense burden on the medical students to become competent in all the core competencies. Medical students understand the learning requirements of their peers and thus senior students or peers can significantly help to achieve learning outcomes. Peer-assisted learning has been implemented in both undergraduate and postgraduate courses in clinical as well as classroom settings. It is quite beneficial as it makes the learning process interactive, more focused, and conducted in a relaxed atmosphere. It also reinforces points that require more attention.
Cerebral Vasospasm, Intracardiac Clot, Wellens Syndrome, and Popliteal Vein Aneurysm in a Hypercoagulable State in Lassa Fever
Authors: Njemanze Philip Chidi , Darlington Chinwendu C. , Ofoegbu Clara C. , Nneke Esther C. , Ohaegbulem Ijeoma A. , Onuchukwu Joy E. , Mgbenu Chinenye U. , Ukeje Nneoma E. , Ukaegbu Chidimma O. , Marvis Amuchie , Mezu Clinton O. , Anaele Juliet Chizoma , Amaefule Doris C. , Uzoma Ogechi , Mbara Chinonso
Published: January 2022

Background:

Lassa fever could precipitate a condition of hypercoagulable state with multiple organ involvement. We report an unusual presentation of cerebral vasospasm, intracardiac clot, Wellens syndrome, and popliteal vein aneurysm in a case of Lassa fever. We demonstrate the use of noninvasive imaging in the diagnosis and management of hypercoagulable state in a first case presentation in Lassa fever.

Methods:

We present a 53-year-old Nigerian woman, with a high-grade fever (39°C) that was associated with chills, headaches, insomnia, anxiety, chest pain, diaphoresis, palpitation, general weakness, muscle aches in all extremities, muscle cramps, dizziness spells, hyperacusis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, hematochezia, and abdominal pain. She admitted that her home is infested with rodents. Physical examination revealed severe anemia. Laboratory tests including blood sample analysis and biochemistry were conducted. Lassa fever was confirmed using Lassa virus-reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction tests. Electrocardiography (ECG), two-dimensional echocardiography, venous duplex ultrasound of the leg veins, and transcranial Doppler ultrasound were performed.

Results:

Blood tests showed electrolyte imbalance and hypertriglyceridemia. Ultrasound tests revealed intracardiac clots with dyskinetic apical septal wall motion abnormality, saccular aneurysm with popliteal venous thrombosis of the right leg popliteal vein, and cerebral vasospasm of the right internal carotid artery due to cardiogenic microemboli. ECG demonstrated Wellens syndrome. The patient was successfully treated with intravenous ribavirin, whole blood transfusion, broad-spectrum antibiotics, isosorbide dinitrate, pentoxifylline, metronidazole, antimalarial, dexamethasone, erythropoietin, anticoagulants (low-molecular-weight heparin and warfarin), and supportive care.

Conclusion:

Noninvasive ultrasound modalities were useful for early detection and treatment of hypercoagulable state in Lassa fever.
Technical Notes on High-Frequency Ultrasound Duodenography and Colonography Imaging of Giardial Lesions
Authors: Njemanze Philip C. , Njemanze Josephine T. , Ofoegbu Clara C. , Nneke Esther , Onweni Ijeoma A. , Ejiogu Uchechi V. , Mgbenu Chinenye U. , Ukeje Nneoma E. , Amadi Anthonia C. , Amaefule Doris C.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Worldwide G. lamblia is the third most common agent of diarrheal disease with over 300 million cases annually. Simple technical notes for clinicians are presented on use of high-frequency ultrasound imaging for duodenography and colonography in patients with Giardia lamblia infection.

Methods:

Ultrasound images were obtained from 100 consecutive patients with symptomatic giardiasis and 40 healthy controls. High-frequency annular array transducer of 7.5 MHz was used to obtain B-mode ultrasound grayscale and color images of the duodenum and colon with and without water contrast. The diagnosis of G. lamblia was based on clinical presentation, serial stool microscopy, and finding of flagellates in duodenal aspirates.

Results:

We demonstrated normal duodenum and colon echoanatomy in control subjects. In patients with giardiasis, the lesions of the duodenum and colon were associated with increased dimensions and wall thickness compared to healthy controls (P < 0.05). The ultrasound features of giardial lesions were characterized by increased wall echogenicity, flattening or loss of duodenal folds and/or colonic haustration, hyperechoic floating foci demonstrating chaotic motility, increased perilesional tissue echogenicity, and altered colonic peristalsis.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, high-frequency B-mode ultrasound imaging with and without water contrast demonstrated the details of duodenal and colonic echoanatomy in normal subjects and patients with giardiasis. The technique could be applied in the clinical setting of rural practitioners.
Studies on foliar uptake of tritiated water on Spinach sp. during light and dark simulated conditions using environmental chamber
Authors: Joshi Chetan P. , Patra A. K. , Jha M. K. , Sudheendran V. , Baburajan A. , Saradhi I. V. , VinodKumar A.
Published: January 2022

Studies on foliar uptake of tritiated water (HTO) on Spinach sp. during light and dark condition was simulated inside the environmental chamber, and an attempt was made to compute CTFWT
HTO, Cpfw
HTO, Cpcw
OBT, Cpfw
OBT using basic equations available in IAEA TECDOC1616. The predicted activity was compared with the observed activity. The conversion of tissue-free water tritium (TFWT) to organically bound tritium (OBT) was more in the light condition. The ratio of OBT to TFWT varied from 0.006 to 0.082. The ratio of observed OBT activity (Bq/kg fresh weight) in light to dark conditions varied from 34% to 117%.
Analysis of postoperation radiation hazards in inertial electrostatic confinement fusion neutron source facility at center of plasma physics under institute for plasma research
Authors: Swami H. L. , Mohanty S. R. , Vala S. , Srinivasan R. , Kumar R.
Published: January 2022

Center of Plasma Physics-Institute for Plasma Research, Nazirakhat, Assam, has the neutron source based on Inertial Electrostatic Confinement of Fusion. In order to scale up the source, it is planned to build a neutron source facility. The facility needs the construction approval from AERB India for occupational radiation safety during the operation and after the operation. It will also assess the short-term and long-term radiological hazards due to the neutron source. In order to evaluate the post irradiation radiation hazards due the neutron source, the radioactivation analysis of laboratory is carried out and reported here. The radioactivity in the laboratory building and source components after short-term and long-term operation has been assessed. The tritium activity in the soil is also evaluated. The calculation is also done for the contact dose rate estimations after operation to assess the maintenance applicability inside the laboratory. The inhalation dose inside the laboratory after the operation has been also calculated to avoid any hazards after operation maintenance activities. The article provides the complete details of post operation hazards analysis for the Inertial Electrostatic Confinement Fusion neutron source facility.
Initial experience on the use of real-time displayed radiation dose monitoring system in computed tomography fluoroscopy
Authors: Raissi Driss , Seay Thomas M. , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2022

This study presents our initial experience on the effective approach to apply real-time radiation dose monitoring during computed tomography (CT)-guided interventional procedures and the potential effects on overall radiation dose. A phantom study using multiple detectors at different body levels was conducted to determine badge positioning and possible effects on scatter radiation doses at three angles; parallel, perpendicular, and 45° relative to the CT gantry. A retrospective study was also conducted to compare scatter radiation and patient radiation doses during live CT fluoroscopy-guided procedures. Highest dose rates were observed when detector faced the scatter source in the perpendicular position to the gantry. There is no significant difference between wearing the detector at the shoulder or at the waist level. The use of real-time dose monitoring system provides immediate feedback during CT fluoroscopy procedures allowing for timely behavior modification.
Stable isotope analysis in environmental impact assessment of radioactivity releases from nuclear power plants
Authors: Iyer Mahadeva R.
Published: January 2022

The potential use of stable fission products from the decay of radioactive contaminants in recreating the impact assessment of radioactivity releases from nuclear power stations is examined. With the advances in mass spectrometry, Minimum Detectable Limits (MDLs) comparable to radioactive measurements have been achieved in the case of stable isotopes as well. The applications of stable fission products in safeguards and environmental surveillance by the author are mentioned. The limited application of stable fission products in the analysis of Fukushima environmental samples is reviewed. The article examines the possible candidates for such analysis and points out the enormous possibilities. This is a neglected field in environmental impact assessment till now and calls for standardizing measurement procedures and analysis methodologies. The stable fission product signatures can also be used to study the uptake and transport of radionuclides in the environment.
Uterine Adenosarcoma with Sarcomatous Overgrowth and Rhabdoid Features
Authors: Rashid Sameera , Akhtar Mohammed
Published: January 2022

Uterine adenosarcoma is usually a low-grade neoplasm with a mixed benign epithelial component and malignant stroma, commonly found in postmenopausal women. In the presence of sarcomatous overgrowth, it has been shown to have poor prognosis. Uterine adenosarcoma with sarcomatous overgrowth and rhabdoid features is extremely rare. We report here a case of a 28-year-old female who was found to have adenosarcoma with sarcomatous overgrowth with extensive rhabdoid features. The tumor had metastasized to the pelvis, omentum, iliac, and obturator lymph nodes. She was lost to follow-up for 10 months, after which she presented with recurrent tumor at the hysterectomy site. She was started on palliative chemoradiotherapy, on which she progressed but later experienced drug toxicity, became cachectic, and was unwilling to continue chemotherapy. There are a few cases of adenosarcoma with sarcomatous overgrowth reported in young women and only two cases with rhabdoid features. Based on this report, adenosarcoma with sarcomatous overgrowth and rhabdoid features appears to be an extremely aggressive tumor with poor prognosis.
Characteristics and Management of Papillary Thyroid Microcarcinoma in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Malik Azhar A. , Aziz Faisal , Beshyah Salem A. , Aldahmani Khaled M.
Published: January 2022

Background:

Recent guidelines in the management of papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTMC) recommend limiting surgery. However, trends in the characteristics and management of PTMC from the Middle East and North Africa region is lacking.

Objectives:

To determine the clinical features, management strategy, and outcomes of PTMC in a large tertiary care center in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Patients and Methods:

This retrospective study included all patients diagnosed with PTMC (i.e., size ≤10 mm) at Tawam Hospital, Al Ain, UAE, between 2008 and 2019. Tumor histopathology, management strategy, and outcomes were the primary analyzed variables.

Results:

A total of 213 patients with PTMC met the inclusion criteria, of which 83.6% were women and 58.7% were Emiratis. The majority had the classical tumor subtype (76.1%) and tumor of size 5–10 mm (71.4%). Multifocal disease was present in 41.1% and lymph node metastasis (LNM) in 16.6% of the patients. According to the 2015 American Thyroid Association categorization, the majority (93.9%) had a low-risk disease, and all except one patient had Stage 1 disease. Total thyroidectomy was performed in 91.1% of the patients, and 47.9% received radioiodine (RAI) therapy. None of the patients were under active surveillance strategy. RAI treatment was used more often in patients with non-incidental tumors, larger tumor size, multifocal disease, positive LNM, tumors in the intermediate/high ATA category, and those who underwent total thyroidectomy or neck dissection (for all, P < 0.05). After a median follow-up of 32.4 months, about 73% had an excellent response to dynamic risk stratification assessment, and only one patient had disease recurrence.

Conclusions:

The majority of the patients had low-risk PTMC, yet most patients underwent total thyroidectomy, and almost 50% were treated with RAI ablation. Further studies are needed to determine if these trends are also present regionally and to explore reasons for not adopting a less aggressive approach in this indolent tumor.
Chicken or the egg: the dilemma of allergic rhinitis versus adenoid hypertrophy
Authors: Eren Erdem , Arslanoglu Secil , Erdem Semiha Bahceci , Nacaroglu Tekin , Karkiner Canan Sule , Can Demet , Onal Kazim
Published: January 2022

Background: There is no consensus as to whether allergic rhinitis (AR) is a cause of adenoid hypertrophy (AH). This study evaluated the role of allergy in AH, and it explored the role of nasal endoscopy and the history of diagnosing AR in children empirically. Materials and methods: This study enrolled 155 children consecutively in İzmir Behcet Uz Children`s Hospital between January and September 2013. Results: Of the patients, 101 (65.2%) had a positive skin prick test. Multiple allergen sensitivity was identified in 76 (75.2%) of these patients. The history items of itching and sneezing had predictive value for empirically diagnosing AR in children. Of the nasal examination findings, only the nasal secretion characteristics had significant predictive value. AH and AR had a significant negative correlation. Conclusion: In this study, AH and AR were inversely related. The characteristics of the nasal secretions, itching, sneezing, were predictors of AR in children.