bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromoblastomycosis with 18 years of evolution
Authors: Belda Walter , Carvalho Caroline H. C. , Passero Luiz F. D.
Published: July 2023

Chronic infectious, granulomatous and suppurative dermatosis, classified among the subcutaneous mycoses, caused by species of pigmented dematiaceous fungi, more prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions and caused by the traumatic implantation of dematiaceous fungal species, where the presence of muriform bodies are an expression of the causal agent in the grafted tissue, characteristic of chromoblastomycosis considered the second implantation mycosis in the world, it manifests itself with slow and progressive growth lesions of exophytic and verrucous plaques and black dots on the surface. The disease is considered a neglected and occupational disease, which occurs mainly among agricultural workers, and coconut and babassu harvesters, lumberjacks and traders of agricultural products. It is important to highlight that people at risk of contracting chromoblastomycosis work in tropical countries, where the temperature can be above 40 °C in summer, and generally refuse to wear protective equipment during the day (shoes, gloves, and clothes), although they know that this type of prophylactic measure can prevent different types of diseases. These vulnerable people often live in low-income countries and sometimes live far from medical services and, once infected, do not seek medical attention. We report below an exuberant and unusual case of lower limb chromoblastomycosis with a history of 18 years of evolution. The diagnosis was established by direct mycological examination, culture and microculture that identified the agent of the Fonsecaea species, and histopathological examination.
Weber approach for retromolar adenoid cyst carcinoma: case report and literature review
Authors: Ruíz Emmanuel Stephano Bracho , Martínez Daniel Benito Castillo , Tapia Sergio Sandoval , Ramírez Daniela Rodríguez , Barragán Cuautemoc Aguilar , Avendaño Luis Bernardo Gómez , Aguilar Laura Yossune León , Ramírez Miguel Angel Monroy , Flores Rafael Silva
Published: July 2023

Adenoid cyst carcinoma (ACC) is an uncommon facial tumor and challenging to treat; surgical treatment is challenging due to its localization. A 49-year-old Latin female patient with a one-year history of soft tissue-depending mass of slow growth in the right maxillary region. Laboratory tests reported normal. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography showed a maxillary tumor. Patient underwent to surgical resection by Weber-Fergusson approach. The patient received postoperative adjuvant radiotherapy. ACC is a challenging entity to treat, surgical resection, and radiotherapy is required. The combination of surgery and radiotherapy represents the definitive treatment for ACC. Chemotherapy remains controversial and is reserved for palliation in selected cases.
Prost-atomegaly in a young adolescent: unusual presentation with rare diagnosis
Authors: Bandana Mehrotra  , Mehrotra Sanjay , Bhargav Mithlesh , Dalela Divakar
Published: July 2023

Prostatic mesenchymal tumours are extremely uncommon benign tumors and very few cases have been published. Our case presented with diarrhea and increased urinary frequency with normal serum PSA levels. On multi-parametric MRI diffusely enlarging prostate with loss of zonal anatomy with possibility of inflammatory etiology was suggested. Trus guided biopsies were reviewed, which followed by immunohistochemistry aided in the diagnosis of ganglioneuroma. Surgical resection represents the only choice for both diagnosis and treatment. Because of the benign nature of ganglioneuroma, adjuvant chemo or radiotherapy is not indicated but regular follow-up is necessary for an early risk of potential local recurrence. Prostatic ganglioneuroma is the first case being reported to the best of our knowledge. The aim of the study was to document a newly diagnosed entity at this site and segregate more literature about it.
Primary adrenal insufficiency presenting with neuropsychiatric illness
Authors: Yadav Lokesh , Khosla Pooja , Taneja Vinus , Dessai Rishikesh
Published: July 2023

Adrenal insufficiency is characterized by decreased production of glucocorticoids from adrenal cortex, either due to a primary adrenal or a secondary pituitary etiology. Neuropsychiatric symptoms and signs could be the first presenting symptoms or the only presentation of adrenal insufficiency and are relatively less explored in patients with adrenal insufficiency and less understood. Patients with chronic psychiatric symptoms, namely depression and anxiety should be evaluated for association with adrenal insufficiency.
A rare case of isoniazid induced sideroblastic anemia
Authors: Hari Arjun B. , Chawla Kunal , Dessai Rishikesh , Gulati Shipra
Published: July 2023

Sideroblastic anemia is a rare cause of anemia. Most of it accounts for the genetic cause, while drug induced is still uncommon. Our patient, a 20 year old female, is a known case of right frontal tuberculoma on ATT presented with complaints of generalized weakness and loss of appetite. On evaluation, she was found to have severe anemia and bone marrow studies confirmed it to be sideroblastic anemia. On revisiting the history, it was noted that she was not taking pyridoxine supplements as advised along with antitubercular drugs. Our patient is one among the few documented cases of Isoniazid induced sideroblastic anemia.This case needs attention because it is a preventable cause of anemia and the clinicians need to be aware about the compliance of the patient with the supplementary drugs.
Right radical hemicolectomy secondary to cecal appendix mucocele: case report
Authors: Sánchez Omar S. , Ramos Monserrat A. V. , Pérez Yoselin J. S. , Morales Carlos P. , Barrientos Cheryl Z. D. , Orea Marco A. C.
Published: July 2023

The cecal appendix mucocele is considered a cystic dilation of obstructive etiology that produces an accumulation of mucoid substance. It may be of benign or malignant origin. 50-year-old female, with no significant personal pathological history, presents with repetitive clinical symptoms of abdominal pain, similar to the process of acute appendicitis, without systemic inflammatory response data, which improves with analgesic management, is protocolized by laboratory studies and imaging, diagnosing appendicular tumor, so it is protocolized for surgical resolution, during which it is decided to do right hemicolectomy due to the macroscopic features of ascending colon. The clinical course and prognosis of mucinous appendicular lesions are closely related to their histology and the presence and extent of peritoneal dissemination. With a survival of 91 to 100% after a conventional appendectomy. The cecal appendix mucocele is considered a benign neoplasm; with good survival provided it is diagnosed in time and an appropriate surgical approach is performed; in our case fortunately it could be protocolized correctly; perform a surgical resection with free edges of oncological cells confirmed by histopathology, so our patient could be discharged from the service being free of oncological pathology at this time.
Carcino-sarcoma of ovary in young female: a rare presentation with review of literature
Authors: Mehrotra Bandana , Mehrotra Sanjay , Bhargav Mithlesh , Gopal Vaibhav Raj
Published: July 2023

Carcino-sarcoma is a malignant mixed mesodermal neoplasm accounting for less than 1% of all ovarian tumors. It is an aggressive tumor, composed of both malignant epithelial and mesenchymal components. To the best of our knowledge, less than 400 cases of ovarian carcino-sarcomas have been reported in the literature and only 10% of them are bilateral. In this paper, we report a new case of unilateral ovarian carcino-sarcoma in a 20-year-old adolescent girl with the aim to analyze it with its possible differentials, treatment and prognosis due to rarity of its occurrence in young age.
Canagliflozin for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals
Authors: Tousif Meirajuddin , Akhtar Maria , Oza Yugam
Published: July 2023

Canagliflozin, a sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitor, is primarily used as an anti-diabetic medication, but recent evidence suggests its potential role in promoting weight loss in individuals without diabetes. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analysing relevant studies published between 2013-2021, focusing on the efficacy and safety of canagliflozin for weight loss in non-diabetic populations. Four relevant studies were identified, which consistently demonstrated that canagliflozin treatment in non-diabetic individuals resulted in significant weight loss compared to placebo or other comparators. The weight loss effect of canagliflozin appears to be mediated by increased urinary glucose excretion, caloric loss, and reduction in body fat mass. Canagliflozin also showed improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors, such as blood pressure and lipid profiles. This review, therefore, provides substantial evidence supporting the potential use of canagliflozin as an effective treatment for weight loss in non-diabetic individuals, suggesting it could be a valuable therapeutic option for addressing the rising prevalence of obesity and associated comorbidities. However, further well-designed clinical trials are needed to elucidate the optimal dosing, long-term safety, and potential side effects of canagliflozin in this specific population.
Examining the knowledge, attitudes, and implementation of evidence-based practice among nurses in the United Arab Emirates: a national cross-sectional descriptive study
Authors: Mohammed Alblooshi Sumaya , H. R. Hijji Farha , Abdul Razzak Hira , Ahmad Mohammad Wishah Moayad , Alkarbi Mubarkah , Zaid Harbi Alya
Published: July 2023

Background: Evidence-based practice across United Arab Emirates has been widely adopted as country strategic direction but the knowledge, attitudes, and its implementation among nurses are yet to be explored. This study explored the knowledge, attitude and implementation of EBP among nurses working in the UAE.
Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from 1,602 nurses working in different healthcare settings across the UAE. Two tools were used in the survey for data collection: the self-reported EBP Questionnaire created by Upton and the EBP Implementation scale by Melnyk, Fineout-Overholt, and Mays.
Results: A total of 1602 nurses (response rate: 95.9%) completed the questionnaire. The mean age was 38.7 years (age range=20-60 years). The study found that the majority of participants were female (84.1%), with 39.6% being staff nurses and the largest group (28.2%) having 11-15 years of nursing experience. Attitudes towards EBP showed the highest mean score of 4.93±1.7 followed by knowledge (4.5±1.4) and practice (3.92±1.7). Hence, the nurses' attitudes towards EBP appeared to be positive, their implementation and knowledge were comparatively moderate. The total EBPQ score was found to be 106.3 out of 168.
Conclusions: The study's finding can be used as a starting point for future evaluations and the development of strategies to encourage EBP utilization among nurses in the UAE. Establishing academic and professional development programs for EBP is necessary for organizations and nursing leaders. Combining EBP education with mentor support can encourage nurses to engage in clinical practice informed by the best available evidence.
A comparative study of exclusive breastfeeding between mothers of formal and informal sector workers in Ede north local government area, Osun State Nigeria
Authors: Comfort Odewale O. , Obukohwo Oyovwi M. , Oladapo Jesutomi E. , Ademola Omishakin M. , Joseph Gregory Uchechukwu , Juliana Elebiju O. , Faith Falajiki Y. , Edet-Utan Oluwakemi
Published: July 2023

Background: Exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) is helpful in reducing infant morbidity and mortality throughout the first six months of life. However, despite aggressive marketing, just 13-36% of Nigeria infants under 6 months old are exclusively breastfed. Hence, this study was aimed to assess the knowledge, practice and factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding (EBF) among informal and formal sector workers in Ede north local government, Osun State.
Methods: A descriptive study was conducted with 285 respondents from formal and informal sector workers with child(ren) aged 0-24 months.
Results: Results showed a significant difference in knowledge and practice of exclusive breastfeeding between formal and informal sector workers. Factors affecting exclusive breastfeeding include lactation, job hindrances, and crèche availability. The practice of EBF was low among mothers in the formal sector, and the factors impacting its practice reported in this study may have substantial implications for breastfeeding intervention programs.
Conclusions: As a result, attempts to promote EBF should target specific populations of informal sector women and areas where it is underutilized. Moreover, mothers must be supported. Furthermore, mothers should be encouraged to attend antenatal care where they will learn about the benefits of exclusive nursing to children under the age of six months, allowing them to make informed decisions on exclusive breastfeeding. The Nigerian government should ensure that the employment act’s maternity leave benefits are implemented in the informal sector, allowing women to practice EBF.
Uptake of universal health care provided maternal neonatal child health services in Machakos County Kenya
Authors: Kangee Maureen , Mwanzo Isaac , Oyore John Paul
Published: July 2023

Background: The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) offers an essential package of health services to citizens while protecting them financially in case of an illness. It has been given a top priority globally as a health-related aim. In Kenya, whereas MNCH services have continued to attract investment over the years, reports still show high rates of maternal and child mortality. The study was sought to assess the level of uptake of universal health coverage provided MNCH services and the associated factors.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study undertaken in 422 households in Machakos Sub-County on women of reproductive age (WRA). The data was collected using   questionnaires. Multiple logistic regression with (p<0.05) at 95% CI was used for inferential statistics.
Results: The results show that all respondents had sought at least one MNCH service. Time taken to reach facility (OR 12.26; 95% CI 1.07 to 140.48) and feeling that a CHV could attend to them during an emergency (OR 4.14; 95% CI 1.23 to 13.91) were significant patient related factors. Supply side factors found to be significant were visit from a CHV (OR 125.93; 95% CI 18.37 to 863.27), feeling that services were of quality (OR 684.411; 95% CI 50.65 to 9248.93, adequacy of staff (OR 1.00; 95% CI 1.0004 to 0.021 and hospital commodities (OR 19.83; 95% CI 1.67 to 235.93). Demographic factors established to be significant were marital status, education level, occupation and monthly income.
Conclusions: Patient-related, supply-side and demographic factors had a significant influence on uptake of UHC provided MNCH services.
Factors associated with personal protective equipment use among pesticide handlers in Mwea irrigation Scheme, Kenya
Authors: Kinyua Fredrick G. , Odongo Alfred O. , Nguku Julius
Published: July 2023

Background: Pesticide use among small scale rice farmers has drastically increased over time globally. Evidence shows that majority of pesticide handlers do not regard PPE use during pesticide application, hence low PPE compliance.
Methods: This study explored factors associated with PPE use among pesticide handlers in Mwea Irrigation Scheme, Kenya. The study was cross-sectional involving 246 respondents.
Results: There was low level of PPE use among pesticide handlers with none using full PPE and only 25.2% using 4-6 PPE items out of 7 possible items. The most used PPE were trousers (74.4%), long-sleeved shirt/jacket (65.9%) and hat (60.6%). The least worn PPE were gumboots (1.6%), gloves (2.8%) and goggles (9.8%). Chi- square tests of independence revealed that sex, age, crop ownership, pesticide safety training, pesticide application experience, pesticide safety knowledge, attitude towards PPE use, perceived environmental health risk and Perceived PPE importance were significantly associated with PPE use. However, level of education, land tenure status and size of the farm were found not to have any association with PPE use.
Conclusions: The results provide insights for future interventions and inform focus areas by health and safety enforcement agencies and policy developers. More training on pesticide safety and PPE use will enhance compliance and promote pesticide handlers’ health.
SARS-Cov-2 infection among health care workers working in COVID-19 and non COVID-19 clinical setting of a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Thammegowda Lakshmeesha , Valagerahalli Rangegowda Krishna Murthy , Lingappa Thejeshwari Halanur , Sarojamma Prakasha Borelingegowda , Pinto Sudeep Valerian , Murthy Suvenitha Dhakshina
Published: July 2023

Background: understanding the impact of COVID-19 on healthcare workers helps in developing newer strategies of infection prevention and control practices objectives were to determine the SARS-CoV-2 infection positivity rate and to identify the risk factors and outcome of SARS-CoV-2 infection among Health Care workers (HCWs) of a tertiary care center.
Methods: A longitudinal cross-sectional study was done among the HCWs of a tertiary care teaching hospital from March 2020 to Feb 2022 Inclusion criteria: All HCWs infected with SARS-CoV-2 during the study period and whose data available with testing and quarantine committee. Exclusion criteria was incomplete HCWs data.
Results: A 840 HCWs out of 2990 total HCWs were infected with SARS-CoV-2: infectivity rate was 28%. Majorities were females (53.9%). mean age was (35.6±1.006) years. nurses (33.8%) were most commonly affected followed by doctors (26%). Working at designated COVID-19 hospital was significantly associated with SARS-Cov-2 positivity compared to working in non- COVID-19 hospital, which was statistically significant at chi-square value of 6.636 at p<0.01. recovery rate was 99.8%; death rate was (0.2%) due to uncontrolled diabetes, alcoholism and smoking; positivity rate among unvaccinated was 6%.
Conclusions: there is a need to reduce high burden of SARS-CoV-2 positivity among HCWs. Revision of existing infection prevention and control (IPC) practices, development of innovative training strategies, constant reinforcement and supportive supervision of IPC practices has to be considered besides emphasizing the importance healthy life style measures.
Academic passion, perceived stress and sleep quality evaluated among medical students of private medical colleges in North Kerala
Authors: Francis Joyal , Aboobacker Aleena S. , Thomas Arppana , Mohandas Bindu
Published: July 2023

Background: Passionate doctors are required for a better health care system. Increased professional and academic requirements increase risk of developing stress and sleep disruption. This study aims to determine the academic passion, stress and sleep quality among medical students and explore the associations among them, which helps to create awareness to improve the mental and physical health of future doctors.
Methods: This cross-sectional study among 649 MBBS students was done at 3 private medical colleges in North Kerala during 2019-2020 using a semi-structured 31-item questionnaire containing 4 sections: socio-demographic information, academic passion, perceived stress, and sleep quality. Data collected in 30 minutes from study participants in campus setting was entered in MS excel and analyzed using SPSS-20.
Result: A 61.6% were women and 38.4% were men. 48% had chosen the profession because of parental pressure, relatives and friends. 51% were passionate about the medical profession. 69% of students were under high perceived stress (mean PSI score 33.54±8.71 SD). 48% of students were poor sleepers (mean PSQI score 6.11±3.45). A 15.6% of participants relied on medication for sleep at least once a month. Passion showed a significant association with stress (p<0.001) and sleep (p<0.001). Passionate students had less perceived stress and lower sleep quality.
Conclusions: Apart from one's own desire, other factors influenced students to choose MBBS. Only half of the participants were passionate. There is a high prevalence of stress and poor sleep quality among medical students. Passion has an imperative role in one’s life quality.
Prevalence of posterior ankle impingement syndrome after ankle sprain in fast bowlers
Authors: Tawade Mayuresh J. , Kadam Sonali
Published: July 2023

Background: Cricket is a competitive, physically challenging game requiring a wide range of attribute including explosive power strength agility speed and physical and mental toughness. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in fast bowlers after ankle sprain.
Methods: In this study club level fast bowlers age group ranging from 18-25 years were considered. Selection of the subjects were done as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Sample size for study was 152. Purpose and procedure of the study was explained to the subjects. Clinical test such as anterior drawer test and Talar tilt test were performed to diagnosed ankle instability after ankle sprain. Subjects having atleast one test positive was further consider and hyper plantarflexion test were performed to confirmed posterior ankle impingement syndrome.
Results: The 68% of players are having posterior ankle impingement syndrome after ankle sprain.
Conclusions: The study concludes that there is high prevalence of posterior ankle impingement syndrome in fast bowlers after ankle sprain in players ranging from 18-25 years and involved in cricket for more than 3 years.
Awareness of cervical cancer among women aged 18-25 years in rural areas
Authors: Patil Kajal M. , Sawant Siddhanth S.
Published: July 2023

Background: Cervical cancer is the 2nd most common cancer in India. It is the most common cause of death in developing countries. According to the current global status of 2016, the age-standardized incidence rate of cervical cancer varies between 5.6 to 24.3 per 1 lakh women in India. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is responsible for subclinical/clinical lesions in cervical cancer. Cervical cancer occurs early and strikes at the productive period of a woman’s life. The vaccines against HPV are bivalent (Cervarix), the quadrivalent vaccine (Gardasil) was licensed in the country in 2008 and a non-valent vaccine was licensed in 2018.
Methods: An observational study was conducted on 149 women in rural areas from Patan taluka (Satara district). A questionnaire was made after referring to similar studies. Informed consent was taken. A validated questionnaire with 9 questions was given to the person and was asked to fill them.
Results: Awareness about cervical cancer was 15.4%. Awareness about risk factors especially genital warts, and sexual activity before 18 was 30.4% and 8.69% respectively. The least commonly known symptoms were vaginal discharge (26.0%), heavy vaginal bleeding (21.7%). Awareness about cervical screening methods was 8.69%. 18.75% knew about vaccination against cervical cancer.
Conclusions: This study shows poor knowledge about cervical cancer and its symptoms, risk factors and prevention methods in the population surveyed. Thus, extensive health education for the public along with the inclusion of the HPV vaccine in the National Immunization Programme is required.
A cross sectional study to assess awareness and attitude on eye donation among college going students of Jhalawar, Rajasthan
Authors: Jhingonia Lokesh Kumar , Swarnkar Madhusudan , Shukla Uma Shankar , Patel Khushboo , Khant Vinod Kumar , Soni S. C.
Published: July 2023

Background: Eye sight is very important for human life. The WHO estimates that for every 5 seconds someone goes blind. According to the Eye Bank Association of India, approximately 1.1 million people are corneal blind in India. College students can play important role for creating awareness about eye donation and breaking myths in society, there is no such research in Jhalawar region on this subject. Aim and objectives were to assess awareness related to eye donation among collegiate students, to know attitude regarding eye donation and to provide information with motivation for eye donation.
Methods: A cross sectional analytical study was conducted on UG students studying in professional colleges of Jhalarapatan block, Jhalawar, Rajasthan. A pretested and semi-structured questionnaire with informed consent was administrated among all participants. The questionnaire consisted of 21 questions related to eye donation ranging from the source of information about eye donation, corneal transplantation, eye donors, criteria for eye donors, knowledge of eye banks, attitude regarding eye donation etc.
Results: All participants (246) have idea of eye donation but medical students have good awareness (84%) compared to nursing (46%), engineering (31.1%) and academic students (26.9%) respectively. Mass media created good awareness (43.6%) while friend/close relative created least (4.7%).
Conclusions: Students who were part of medical/nursing education because of their close association with this activity have better opportunity for creating awareness in community compare to academic students. Mass media had an important role in creating eye donation awareness among society.
Antenatal care and its association with pregnancy outcomes at tertiary care hospital, Jhalawar
Authors: Deepender  , Shukla Uma Shankar , Sharma Anubhav , Gupta Pankaj Kumar , Jain Mayank , Saini Vinod Kumar , Qureshi Asif
Published: July 2023

Background: Low birth weight is a major public health problem in India. Amongst several many factors affecting birth weight, the two factors are demographic characteristics of mothers and utilization of antenatal care services after timely registration of pregnancy. Aims were to access ANC and its association with pregnancy outcomes at Jhalawar medical college, Jhalawar Rajasthan.
Methods: All the pregnant women were admitted to the maternity ward for delivery in November 2022. The interview consisted of a demographic characteristic of mothers, utilization of ANC services, live birth weight of the baby, and records of the mother from the hospital. Data collection was done from the maternity ward and vaccination site. It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study.
Results: Among mothers who registered in 1st trimester, 81.6% delivered at full term, 77% of new-born were normal birth weight and only 8.5% of new-born needed NICU admission; compared to those who registered in 2nd and 3rd trimesters delivered at full term 67.1% and 55% respectively, 63.3% and 50% new-born had normal birth weight and NICU admission needed by 17.7% and 55% new-born needed NICU admission respectively. Those mothers who received ≥4 ANC visits had delivered 186 (78.8%) new-born with normal birth weight and required NICU admission for 24 (10.2%) new-born as compared to those who had <4 ANC visits delivered 109 (64.9.8%) new-born with normal birth weight.
Conclusions: Early registration of pregnancy prevents chances of LBW baby, long stay in NICU also leads to a reduction in preterm delivery.
Perception towards COVID-19 vaccine among staff of urban health centres of Gandhinagar municipal corporation
Authors: Shah Vidhi M. , Soni Jimeet
Published: July 2023

Background: COVID-19, an infectious respiratory illness caused by SARS-Cov 2 spread across the world and declared as pandemic in 2019. With the successive trail of COVID vaccine, the attention was turned towards its distribution and uptake. Vaccine hesitancy was greatest threat to the mass vaccination drive, which was major barrier for achieving desired vaccination goal. The main objective is to understand the knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID-19 vaccine among staff of urban health centres of Gandhinagar municipal corporation.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess the knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID-19 vaccine among staff of four urban health centres using a purposive sampling. Quantitative data was collected using self-administered semi-structured questionnaire.
Results: Out of 182 participants, 76 percent have taken COVISHIELD vaccine, 4 percent COVAXIN and 20 percent have not taken any vaccine. Out of these 20 percent; 14 percent denotes vaccine hesitancy due to its doubtful efficacy and fear.
Conclusions: The staff of UHCs shown good and adequate knowledge towards COVID vaccines. However, the vaccine hesitancy was found among staff regardless of their education status.
Association between waiting time, service time and patient satisfaction in the out-patient department of a tertiary care hospital in Maharashtra
Authors: Acharya Anvesha , Kendre Varsharani , Jadhav Yallapa , Tambe Muralidhar
Published: July 2023

Background: Quality patient care is controlled by various factors - degree of fulfilment of patients' needs being one of them. Lesser waiting times, empathetic doctors and availability of medications yield more satisfied patients.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 80 patients attending the OPD of a tertiary care hospital from 9 am to 1 pm, Monday to Saturday from 8th February 2021 to 8th April 2021. Consenting patients were shadowed and observed until they completed their visit. Actual waiting time, consultation time and overall visit duration were calculated. An exit interview was conducted to assess satisfaction with waiting time, infrastructure and doctor-patient interaction.
Results: The mean waiting time in one visit was 59.025±39.497 minutes. The mean consultation time with the doctor was 6.925±7.688 minutes. Statistical analysis showed that patients with lesser waiting time were significantly more satisfied with hospital services (p=0.004). Males were significantly more satisfied than females (p=0.02). Domains of dissatisfaction were waiting time at the registration desk, outside the OPD, seating arrangement, cleanliness and availability of medications. Doctor-patient interaction and consultation time were rated highly. 
Conclusions: The results showed that significant changes are required in the queueing system and hospital infrastructure. The positive response received in case of doctor-patient interaction is a step in the right direction. Regular surveys can help us rectify oversights in the present healthcare system.
Awareness and knowledge of HIV/AIDS in school going children of Surat, Gujarat
Authors: Kariya Prashant , Shringarpure Kalpita S. , Patel Apurva G.
Published: July 2023

Background: Adolescents are susceptible to unhealthy practices due to a lack of knowledge and curiosity to try new things. Adolescent age also forms the base for behaviors throughout their lives. This study therefore aimed to understand adolescents’ present knowledge and attitude towards HIV/AIDS.
Methods: A questionnaire was created with knowledge and attitude-based questions regarding HIV/AIDS. The questionnaire was embedded in google Forms and was sent via WhatsApp, to collect responses from school going children of age 14 to 18. Ethical permissions and consents were taken and the data collection went on for a week.
Results: 2000 children took part in the study, out of that 732 were males and 1268 were females. The mean score of all the participants was calculated to be 68.52% with a standard deviation of 17.18. There was no statistical significance of gender and the mean score of the participants, whereas statistical significance was found for age-wise distribution of mean score. Participants scored well on basic knowledge-based questions like “causative organism’’ but failed to do good on little complicated questions like ‘’Route of transmission’’
Conclusions : The results from this study can be applied to similar regions of Gujarat and other states as well. This would help in making changes in the education of this age group of children. Such studies also form the base of future studies to evaluate the difference in knowledge of the school going children over a period of time by comparing this data.
Social anxiety among trainee audiologist and speech language pathologist in Bengaluru: a cross sectional study
Authors: Babu Praveena , Rajan Rithu , T. Suresh , A. Srividya
Published: July 2023

Background: Audiologist and Speech language pathologist (ASLPs) are a group of professionals specialized in communication disorders. Their work responsibilities require them to be interacting with people with different backgrounds, education and ages who seek assistance from these young professionals. It is important to know whether the professionals who are meant to deal with individuals with communication disorders are themselves going through social anxiety or not.
Methods: A questionnaire was prepared and was used for assessing social anxiety among trainee undergraduate and postgraduate ASLP’s. Data was collected via Google form further was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0.
Results: Total 124 students participated in the study (20 males and 104 females). Cronbach’s test was administered to check the internal consistency of questionnaire. The overall questionnaire had a global alpha of 0.926 and global alphas for different scenarios of the questionnaire were 0.865 and 0.894 respectively indicating high internal consistency. The test retest stability for the total score found to be high with r =0.773and p<0.01. Social anxiety score differs significantly with respect to ‘Traumatic life events’ and ‘Age’.
Conclusions: The study was able to deliver the answers to the questions of the researcher, that is, first, the study was able to assert the use of the questionnaire in the target population. Second, study found a statistically significant difference on anxiety scores between different scenarios i.e, social and professional life.
Road traffic injuries and their associated risk factors in Dibrugarh district, Assam: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hanse Chinthong Kirshan , Baruah Jenita , Phukan Ishan
Published: July 2023

Background: Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a leading cause of mortality and morbidity throughout the world and especially in developing countries like India, out of which many goes unreported. As such, this study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTIs and their associated risk factors in Dibrugarh district of Assam.
Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 820 samples taken from both urban and rural areas of Dibrugarh district. Data was collected by personal interview using a pre-designed, pre-tested structured questionnaire. Data is presented in percentages and association was tested using logistic regression analysis.
Results: The overall prevalence of RTIs was found to be 4.4%. Prevalence of RTI was higher amongst males (6.85%), people belonging to age group of 18-30 yrs and people who were unemployed (26.2%). Also, most of the accidents were found to occur during night time (47.2%), amongst two wheelers (52.8%) and more in the rural areas than the urbans. A high prevalence of alcohol consumption (58.3%) and usage of mobile phones (16.7%) while driving was seen with the RTIs. Also only 25% and 13% of the RTI victims were using helmets and seatbelts respectively while riding their bikes/cars.
Conclusions: Prevalence of RTIs was quite high amongst the population of Dibrugarh district along with high prevalence of risky behaviour while driving. As such, awareness regarding this hazardous problem amongst people and how to take proper preventive measures is of utmost importance.
A case report on primigravida with myasthenia gravis: outcome of pregnancy
Authors: Sarita  , Gupta Anchal
Published: July 2023

Primigravida refers to a woman who is pregnant for the first time.  It is a unique experience for the woman. Usually, any minor alignment during this time will lead to anxiety. The prevalence rate of myasthenia gravis in pregnancy is 1 in 20,000. The main reason behind the cause of the disease is improper secretion of acetylcholine, huge secretion of cholinesterase, and non-responsive muscle fibers. The purpose of this case study is to introduce the outcome of pregnancy with myasthenia gravis. This case was taken at X private hospital. A 27-year-old primigravida woman with 38 weeks of pregnancy was the first known case of myasthenia gravis. She was diagnosed with myasthenia gravis thymic hyperplasia in November 2020. The patient is then managed with a surgical procedure, i.e., thymectomy, on 18 September 2021. The patient was receiving distinon (pyridostigmine) 60 mg. It requires the intraoperative collaboration of the neurology and obstetrics departments in managing myasthenia gravis during pregnancy. A successful elective caesarean section was done on the patient's request under spinal anaesthesia on 13 April 2023. The male newborn, with a birth weight of 2.825 gm was delivered. The newborn was transferred to the NICU for further surveillance and did not show any sign of muscular weakness. The baby was healthy at the time of discharge.
Nutritional status of rural school-going children (11-13 years) of Dharmapuri district, Tamil Nadu, South India
Authors: Elangovan Prasanth , A. S. Hema Priya , Sargunam Kalpana
Published: July 2023

Background: The childhood years are characterized by rapid growth and development on both a physical and mental level. Compared to adults, they require a greater amount of nutrition per unit of body weight. The prevalence of undernutrition among schoolchildren is one of the foremost public health problems in developing countries such as India. Various studies have highlighted the burden of undernutrition nationwide among different groups in India. The objective of the present study was to assess the nutritional status of school children attending schools in Dharmapuri, Tamil Nadu.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 972 school children of 11 to 13 years of age for 6 months by consecutive sampling technique. The children were assessed for nutritional status by clinical examination as well as anthropometric assessment and were compared with the WHO growth standards. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 22 on the data obtained.
Results: The mean age of the children was 12.11±0.8 of which 491(51%) were boys and 481 (49%) were girls. Among children, the prevalence of underweight, overweight, and obesity was 565 (58%), 25 (2.6%), and 23 (2.4%) respectively.
Conclusions: The burden of undernutrition is indeed a serious concern in the rural school children of Dharmapuri district in Tamilnadu. The importance of routine school health visits is stressed and this issue needs to be addressed promptly through a multipronged approach.
Epidemiological determinants associated with depression among adult hypertensives in an urban field practice area: a cross sectional study
Authors: Gaikwad Haribhau B. , Srivastav Manissha , Bansode-Gokhe Seema S.
Published: July 2023

Background: Non-communicable diseases cause, more than 50% of deaths and cardiovascular diseases emerged as the most important cause of it. Hypertension affects about 1 billion people worldwide and it is estimated that by 2025, up to 1.58 billion adults while the comorbidity of depression, anxiety, and cardiovascular diseases is an important public health concern representing 31% of all deaths. Objectives were to study prevalence of depression among adult hypertensive study subjects and to assess the epidemiological determinants associated with depression among adult hypertensives.
Methods: A single centre, cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 350 hypertensive adult of urban field practice area of teaching medical institute with 10 months period from May 2019 to March 2020. A semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used for data collection and 21 items self-reporting Becks Depression Inventory scale (BDI) was used for assessment of depression. The BDI score <10 denotes normal or no depression & the score >10 denotes depression. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS software 16 trial version. The Chi-square test was used for test of significance.
Results: Out of total of 350 study subjects, males were 100 and females were 250. Out of them, 151 had depression. The overall proportion of depression among study subjects was found to be 43.14%.
Conclusions: In present study, proportion of depression among hypertensives was found to be high i.e. 43.14%. Lower socio-economic status, altered sleep pattern, addiction history, history of loneliness, low educational status more likely to have co-morbid depression.
A compliance study of baal vita supplement to children in Sindhupalchowk District, Nepal
Authors: Bhatt Deependra Prasad , Bist Amrit , Lamsal Krishna Prasad , Joshi Prakash Chandra
Published: July 2023

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread and have serious health implications, particularly for women and children globally. In Nepal, the government is tackling this issue by providing MNP/Baal Vita supplements to children aged 6-23 months, alongside promoting community-based infant and young child feeding (IYCF). This strategy aims to combat anaemia and micronutrient deficiencies in children under 2 years old. The government's protocol indicates that each child in this age group should consume a total of 180 sachets, 80% consumption of total sachets was taken reference for compliance in this study.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study using a structured questionnaire was carried out among 198 participants. Simple random sampling was used for selecting a sample. Excel and SPSS were being used for data coding, decoding, and statistical analysis.
Results: Assessment of knowledge revealed that the majority (60.1%) of the participants had adequate knowledge regarding Baal Vita. The findings showed 51% of the respondents had Baal Vita compliance, as they had consumed at least 80% of the total sachets as per protocol. Sex of children and occupation of mothers are not associated with the compliance of Baal Vita, but education of mothers and ethnic groups are associated with its compliance.
Conclusions: The level of knowledge and compliance rate of Baal Vita in Sindhupalchowk district were not satisfactory. It is suggested that improving knowledge level with counselling, accessibility, availability, and change the perception towards the taste of powder is essential to improving compliance with Baal Vita.
Impact of cataract surgery on quality of life in rural areas of Jharkhand: a community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Jagadeesh Bharath , Gupta Sagarika , Bhatnagar Anuj
Published: July 2023

Background: Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in India, accounting for approximately 66.2% of all blindness cases and accounting for 71.2% of all visual impairment cases. This study was conducted in 5 blocks of East Singhbhum and Saraikela-Kharsawan districts of Jharkhand to determine burden of cataract and the impact of cataract surgery on quality of life in the rural population.
Methods: Community based cross sectional study was conducted between January 2023 to April 2023 among individuals residing in rural areas of Jharkhand using multi-stage sampling with a sample size of 692 individuals.
Results: Prevalence of cataract amongst the study population was 23% (159) and there was a statistically significant improvement in the quality-of-life post cataract surgery.
Conclusions: High prevalence of cataract increases the burden on existing health care system. Ongoing research and initiatives should focus on improving early detection and referral, providing comprehensive post-operative care to reduce the burden of cataract and improve the quality-of-life outcomes among the individuals.
Illicit Substance use among adolescents and youths in Zimbabwe: a stakeholder’s perspective on the enabling factors and potential strategies to address this scourge
Authors: Dzinamarira Thulani Runyararo , Mutevere Mirriam , Nyoka Stephen , Moyo Enos , Mkwapatira McAuthur , Murewanhema Grant , Dzinamarira Tafadzwa
Published: July 2023

Drug and illicit substance use among adolescents and the youth is a rising global health concern. In Zimbabwe, this problem has also been increasing in magnitude, with reports indicating that the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the growth of the problem. Decisively dealing with the problem requires an understanding of the contributory factors from all significant stakeholders’ perspective. We qualitatively explored the contributory factors to drug and substance use among the adolescents and youths in Zimbabwe from a significant stakeholders’ perspective. We conducted three focus group discussions with relevant stakeholders to reach saturation point. Four themes emerged on enabling factors, namely idleness among the youths and the adolescents, increased access to illicit substances, low community awareness of the signs of drug and substance use leading to delayed identification, and absence of social workers in the communities. Four themes emerged as possible strategies to curb drug and illicit substance use in this age group, namely capacitation of mental health institutions, expanding community awareness programmes, tailored approaches for adolescent and youth programming, and strengthening law enforcement. A convergence with these relevant stakeholders is urgently needed to map strategies to deal with the enabling factors place, and to strengthen strategies to curb the problem.
Residual limb temperature study with Pe-Lite liner in traumatic transtibial amputees
Authors: Kumari Rohina , Jamal Tausif
Published: July 2023

Interventions to alleviate thermal discomfort, a common complaint in amputees, are typically chosen based on residual limb skin temperature while wearing prosthesis; however, residual limb skin temperature while outside of the prosthesis has received less attention. The purpose of this study was to investigate the localized and regional skin temperature over the transtibial residual limb (TRL) when the prosthesis was removed. The present study documents the temperature variations in a traumatic below knee amputee with Pe-Lite liner. This study included eight unilateral transtibial amputees. Over the residual limb, twelve sites were marked in four columns (anterior, posterior, medial, and lateral) and three rows (proximal, middle, and distal). The temperature of the residual limb was measured with an infrared thermometer both in a relaxed state and after 30 minutes of activity with a Pe-Lite liner. The current study found a rise in temperature on the anterior side (36.30⁰C to 36.44⁰C), posterior side (36.36⁰C to 36.50⁰C), medial side (36.34⁰C to 36.40⁰C), and lateral side (36.35⁰C to 36.45⁰C). The temperature distribution over the TRL was found to be unequal, with significantly higher and lower temperatures on its posterior and medial sides, respectively.