bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of diagnostic utility of Xpert MTB/Rif test on pleural fluid in the evaluation of patients presenting with Pleural Tuberculosis in Nepal
Authors: Mishra Deebya Raj , Bhatta Narendra , Lamsal Madhab , Bhattarai Narayan , Maskey Robin , Shah Niharika
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Existing tests for the diagnosis of pleural tuberculosis (TB) have major limitations in terms of accuracy, time to diagnosis and drug resistance testing. A test which can diagnose pleural TB and detect resistance, like Xpert MTB/Rif, would be optimal for rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was done in a tertiary care hospital in Eastern Nepal. Fifty-one patients with clinic-radiologic suspicion of pleural TB were included. The results of pleural fluid Xpert MTB/Rif were compared with two Composite Reference Standards. Composite Reference Standard-1 consisted of positive pleural fluid smear, positive culture, positive histology of pleural biopsy, and positive sputum results. Composite Reference Standard-2 included those with Composite Reference Standard-1 and those with high ADA values (>40 U/l) with response to anti-tubercular treatment at 8 weeks of follow-up.

Results:

Thirty-six patients were diagnosed as Pleural TB. Nine fulfilled Composite Reference Standard-1. Pleural fluid Xpert MTB/Rif was positive in five cases with Composite Reference Standard-1 and nine cases with Composite Reference Standard-2. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value with reference to Composite Reference Standard-1 were 55.56%, 88.10%, 50%, and 90.24%, respectively. Using Composite Reference Standard-2 as reference, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 25%, 93.33%, 90%, and 34.15%, respectively. Two cases were diagnosed Xpert Rif resistant on pleural fluid.

Conclusion:

Due to low sensitivity, the Xpert MTB/Rif test cannot be recommended as initial test of diagnosis in a high prevalence setting. At the same time its clinical utility lies in testing of patients suspected to have drug-resistant pleural tuberculosis.
Tuberculosis and COVID-19: An epidemic submerged in the pandemic: A case series and review of current literature
Authors: Rath Sutapa , Mishra Baijayantimala , Mohapatra Prasanta R. , Datta Ananda , Durgeshwar Gopal , Vedala Manoharacharyulu , Panigrahi Manoj K. , Bhuniya Sourin
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Tuberculosis (TB), the leading infectious cause of death worldwide, like coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), is mainly transmitted through the respiratory route and affects the lungs. Though TB-COVID co-infection is not common, but might be missed due to similar clinical presentation. Therefore, a high index of suspicion of co-infections is needed so that there is prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment. A higher mortality of 13% in cases of co infections is alarming. Here we are reporting a case series of SARS-CoV-2 – TB co-infection from Eastern India.
Mucormycosis and diabetes in the times of COVID-19: A Mumbai-based observational study
Authors: Hinduja Anupa R. A. , Tambe Rahul R. , Giri Purshottam A. , Sunil Suchithra , Limaye Harshad , Kalpana G
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

There is a significant increase in the number of mucormycosis cases in the setting of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study was undertaken to understand the clinical profile of such patients and the risk factors associated with increased mortality of this already deadly infection.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted by including microbiologically confirmed cases of mucormycosis with the background of COVID-19 infection (COVID-19–associated mucormycosis [CAM]). Data was segregated into those of survivors versus non-survivors and the two groups were analyzed for various risk factors. Early and late CAM were also compared.

Results:

The case fatality rate was 21.73% (5/23 patients). Case fatality in early CAM was 33.3% versus 9.1% in late CAM. Rhino-orbital-cerebral mucormycosis (P = 0.01) and cranial nerve involvement (P = 0.0482) were associated with increased mortality. Diabetes and poor glycemic control were the common factors in all patients. Early CAM patients were more likely to have orbital or cerebral involvement (P = 0.0065). Patients having chronic liver disease had a higher risk of mortality (P = 0.0395). Sequential treatment or concurrent dual drug therapy with a combination of antifungal drugs was independently associated with better survival (P = 0.0395). The average duration of treatment with amphotericin-b required for cure by survivors was 29.05 ± 17.05 days. The average duration of treatment with isavuconazole/posaconazole for survivors was 50.32 ± 25.23 days.

Conclusion:

Early CAM had a higher case fatality rate. Patients had better recovery rates with sequential or dual antifungal treatment. The raised incidence and mortality in the COVID-19 pandemic is probably related to the COVID-19–induced immunosuppression with associated diabetes and excessive use of steroids.
Association between stuttering and psychosocial complications in Saudi Arabian individuals: A pilot study
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Sameer , Al-Ghamdi Hussain A. , Allarakia Basmah M. , Alshatri Fahad A. , Al-Ghamdi Abdulrahman , Al-Ghamdi Mohammed
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Stuttering is a multifaceted speech disorder that affects the interpersonal communication. It has a significant psychosocial impact on individuals who stutter and on their families. Stuttering is associated with substantial psychosocial morbidity, including social or generalized anxiety, stigmatization or discrimination, impaired self-image, and poor quality of life. Psychosocial morbidity, such as the one reported among stuttering individuals, may provoke suicidal ideation that varies with gender, age, geographic region, and psychosocial reality. The present research aimed to determine the association between stuttering and psychosocial complications in Saudi Arabian individuals.

Materials and Methods:

This study targeted a total of 107 male patients with stuttering. Only 59 of them fulfilled both inclusion and exclusion criteria. The researchers formulated a valid questionnaire to obtain quantifiable data for analysis. The questionnaire consisted of 76 questions spanning various domains. Following the data collection, a quantitative analysis was carried out.

Results:

A total of 79.5% of the participants were adolescents or young adults between the ages of 16 and 26. Among them, 17.8% had a later onset of stuttering. The age of onset tended to be higher than 5 years, with over 80% of respondents reporting an age of onset in the last 5 years of their age. Among the participants, 57.6% reported a positive family history of stuttering.

Conclusions:

The present study reports that patients who stutter (PWS) are at a higher risk of developing negative thoughts leading to suicidal attempts due to social anxiety and depression. Therefore, future studies should be designed to establish the relationship between stuttering and suicidal thoughts in order to establish policies that may improve the quality of life of those who stutter.
Agricultural pesticide use and misuse: A study to assess the cognizance and practices among North Indian farmers
Authors: Sachan Beena , Kandpal Sunil Dutt , Singh Arvind K. , Kaushik Amit , Jauhari Sugandha , Ansari Arshi
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Farmers’ cognizance regarding pesticide use and overuse is limited and their practices for handling of pesticides is unsatisfactory. However, their perception concerning risks and safety of pesticides play a very important role in safe spraying and indirectly protect them from adverse health hazards.

Objective:

To assess the cognizance about use and risks of overuse of pesticides and evaluate practices for the storage, preparation, and disposal of pesticides.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 387 farmers of Lucknow who fulfilled the inclusion criteria. A multistage random sampling was done to interview the farmers. A pretested structured questionnaire was to collect the information regarding the cognizance about use and risks of overuse of pesticides and evaluate practices for the storage, preparation, and disposal of pesticides.

Results:

More than half (55%) of the farmers did not read and follow the pesticide label. Maximum (80.2%) were unaware that pesticides are banned or restricted for use. Thirty-seven percent did not know that some pesticides may cause lethal intoxications. Majority of the farmers (42.6%) stored the pesticides anywhere in the house. More than two-thirds of the farmers (69.7%) mixed only needed pesticides followed by a low percentage of them applying on other crops (15.8%) and dispose in the field (11.7%).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that cognizance and practices of the farmers for pesticide use and risks associated with it was not satisfactory and exposes them to adverse health outcomes.
Fatal polymorphic ventricular tachycardia in a primary health center setting: A case report
Authors: Wanjari Mayur , Patil Manoj
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Polymorphic ventricular tachycardia (PVT) is a lethal cardiac arrhythmia. It requires medical intervention, including defibrillation, or imminent death may result. A 26-year-old male patient presented to the emergency department with complaints of syncope while working on the farm; later diagnostic testing indicated PVT. As cardiovascular disorders are becoming increasingly prevalent in urban as well as rural areas, it is a need of time to make our facilities well equipped for resuscitation measures by implementing advanced cardiac life support.
The correlation of intraoperative findings and foetal outcome in cases taken for caesarean section based on non-reassuring cardiotocographic changes-A review article
Authors: Dound Nicole C. , Pajai Sandhya , Singh Aarshika
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

An essential role played by cardiotocography (CTG), is promptly detecting non-reassuring foetal status during delivery, as these abnormal changes are a prime reason for women to undergo a caesarean section. But all abnormal changes in cardiotocography does not lead to poor outcome in terms of liquor that was meconium stained or a low APGAR score at birth. As a result, research is the need of the hour, to understand their correlation; hence, showing the benefit of CTG in the precise detection of non-reassuring foetal status is correlated from the intraoperative findings discovered later. This review article aimed to see if there was a link between perioperative findings and foetal consequences in women who had a caesarean section due to foetal condition, which was not reassuring according to cardiotocographic findings.
Role of Dantabija, Haridra, and Zingiber (DHZ) combination to restore health and immunity in mild to moderate COVID-19 patients
Authors: Kumar Yogesh , Agarwal Mukta , Bhushan Divendu , Pati Binod K. , Jha Kamlesh , Kumari Amita
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) has caused various clinical manifestations ranging from asymptomatic, minor flu-like symptoms to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), pneumonia, and even death. Early restriction of viruses is of utmost importance in controlling the spread of COVID-19. The present study aimed to evaluate the role of a common herbal extract combination of pomegranate (dantabija), turmeric (haridra), and zinger (DHZ) in mild to moderate covid cases.

Methods:

A hundred covid-positive subjects of mild to moderate severity have been randomized to control and study groups. The study population has been given the fixed-dose combination of DHZ as an adjuvant to standard treatment. Data have been analyzed using standard statistical tools.

Finding:

DHZ as an adjuvant helped in turning 83.33% of patients negative in the home quarantine group whereas 40% of patients in the hospitalized group turned negative with the addition of DHZ in the standard management. The percent negativity was lower in patients who received only standard management. Out of all patients, who did not receive DHZ, only 38% of patients in home quarantine and 32% in hospitalized patients became negative for COVID-19. Patients who received DHZ also showed improvement in blood pressure levels, oxygen levels as well as improvement in all symptoms associated with COVID-19 infections.

Interpretation:

DHZ has shown a promising effect in mild to moderate cases of COVID-19 as an adjuvant to the standard therapy. The study results indicated that the combination probably produces its effect by its immunomodulatory action.
Factors influencing adherence to self-care practices among patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus from Saurashtra region of Gujarat: A conclusive research
Authors: Joshi Jwalant , Patel Punit , Gandhi Shreyashkumar , Patel Nitesh , Chaudhari Ashishkumar
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

It is commonly understood that diabetes self-care practice is critical in the management of the disease. However, the magnitude and determinants of self-care practices are not well evaluated at the community level.

Methods:

A community based cross-sectional study was conducted among 178 type 2 DM patients. Self-care practices were evaluated for the last seven days and each item was scored from 0 (none of the days in a week) to 7 (all 7 days were followed).

Results:

Adherence to medication (89.3%) and blood glucose monitoring (65.2%) were relatively higher than other domains. Factors associated with dietary adherence were secondary level education and above (OR = 22.1, 95% CI = 6.85 to 71.3), physician or endocrinologist treating doctors (OR = 3.36, 95% CI = 1.24 to 11.32), joint and three-generation family (OR = 3.32, 95% CI = 1.23 to 8.92) and upper and middle socioeconomic class (OR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.1 to 6.2). Good glycemic control was significantly associated with dietary adherence (OR = 6.81, 95% CI = (2.71 to 17.16), medication adherence (OR = 4.59, 95% CI = 1.3 to 16.24) and regular exercise (OR = 3.65, 95% CI = 1.62 to 8.19).

Conclusion:

There is need to develop structured diabetes self-care education programs with involvement of private practitioners as a majority of the patients consult private practitioners for treatment. Health educators might have to place emphasis on self-care education to patients as well as caregivers belonging to low socioeconomic class and having lower education.
Buffering effects of social security benefits for persons with psychiatric disability on caregivers’ burden and quality of life
Authors: Majhi Gobinda , Vasava Tejas Fatesinghbhai
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Out-of-pocket mental health care expenditure has a catastrophic impact on the families living with severe mental illness, with high levels of burden and poor quality of life.

Aim:

The present study aims to understand the buffering effects of social security benefits for persons with psychiatric disability on caregivers’ burden and quality of life.

Methodology:

Two groups of caregivers of people with severe mental illnesses, those receiving disability benefits (n = 100) for the past 6 months and those who were not receiving any benefits (n = 72), were recruited from the out-patient follow-up services. Both the groups were assessed with the Burden Assessment Scale (BAS) and the World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHO QoL-Bref).

Result:

Those who were receiving the disability-related social benefits had reported better quality of life only in psychological and social domains. The maximum value of Pearson’s correlation coefficient was observed between physical and psychological domains (r = 0.12; not significant), and the values did not change even after controlling for the social security status.

Discussion:

The current study did not find full support for buffering effects of social security benefits on caregivers’ quality of life. Thus, there is a need for a comprehensive plan for social security benefits, especially for persons with psychiatric disability, as caregivers are already experiencing high levels of financial stress.
Prognostic utility of cardiovascular indices in COVID-19 infection: A single-center prospective study in India
Authors: Lakhani Aisha , Laturkar Nikhil , Dhok Avinash , Mitra Kajal
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cardiac signs can show illness progression and severity in a number of respiratory and cardiovascular disorders. The possible importance of CT findings in the prognosis and result of COVID-19 patients is related to the severity of lung disease and cardiac parameters. The CT-assessed cardiac indices are known for predicting the involvement of extent of diseases. Hence, the objective of this study was to correlate the extent of cardiovascular and respiratory involvement in predicting the severity of disease using CT-assessed cardiac indices in Indian population suffering from COVID-19.

Methodology:

A total of 120 COVID-19 patients were included following the inclusion criteria for one year. The confounding factors were assessed and analyzed. The correlation between the cumulative hazard function of death and duration in hospital along with survival rate were done in terms of pulmonary artery-to-aorta ratio (PA/A), and cardiothoracic ratio (CTR).

Results:

The analysis showed mean age of patients to be 49.5(±15.32) years in which mean females were 38(±31.7) and males were 82(±68.3). The interquartile range of CT severity was 8. The PA/A ratio in discharged patients was 0.85 when compared to deceased patients with 1.03 having statistically significant inference (P = 0.00). The CTR (P = 0.00), epicardial adipose thickness (P = 0.00), epicardial adipose density (P = 0.00), and D-dimer (P = 0.007) were showing statistically significant inference.

Conclusion:

The predictive values of CT-assessed cardiac indices might be used for predicting the involvement of cardiovascular and respiratory involvement in COVID-19 patients. It could have an impact on improving the possibilities of survival of patients suffering from COVID-19 in India.
Vaccination and COVID-19 infection among adults aged 45 years and above in a North-Eastern state of India
Authors: Vanlalduhsaki  , Roy Swagnik , Laldinmawii Gracy , Patki Swati M. , Sundaram Shanthosh P.
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

In response to this coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, vaccines reaching the predetermined levels of safety and efficacy were rolled out for use under emergency use approval/listing (EUA/EUL). The government of India has introduced three vaccines for emergency use as of today.

Aim:

The study was conducted to evaluate the association between the Covishield vaccine and COVID-19 infection among adults (≥45 years) who undergo reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) COVID-19 testing.

Methods:

The study was conducted in a dedicated COVID-19 hospital in a north-eastern state of India among adults aged 45 years and above, who underwent RT-PCR testing. Cases were those who tested positive for RT-PCR and controls were those who were RT-PCR negative during the same period. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant data pertaining to socio-demographic profile, symptoms of COVID-19, vaccination status, co-morbidities, etc. Multiple logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio (OR) to find the association between vaccination and COVID-19 infection.

Results:

A total of 116 participants, 45 years and above were interviewed in the study. It was found that cases were more likely to have symptoms (48% vs. 6.9%, P value = <0.005) and have history of positive family member (89.7% vs. 72.4%, P value = 0.018) than controls. The odds of having COVID-19 infection were OR 12.60 (95% confidence interval (CI) 4.03-39.34) for those that have symptoms and OR 6.07 (95% CI 1.90-19.34) for unvaccinated individuals.

Conclusions:

Covishield vaccine protected individuals against COVID-19 infection with the risk of getting the infection being significantly lower in vaccinated individuals. Relevance for Patients: COVID-19 vaccination prevents the infection and addresses misconceptions about the vaccine.
Low-dose ketamine as an analgesic agent in the emergency department: Efficacy and safety
Authors: Parvizrad Ramin , Nikfar Somayeh
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Interest in using low-dose ketamine (LDK) as an alternative analgesic to manage acute pain in the emergency department (ED) has increased. The aim of this systematic review was to compare and evaluate the analgesic effect and safety of LDK for the management of acute pain in the ED.

Method:

Databases were searched and all published articles that met the inclusion criteria were used. Electronic research was conducted on a total of 85 articles, and 13 articles that were relevant in terms of content, topic, and aim were selected for further review. The studies were analyzed and categorized after review.

Results:

The results demonstrated that in 53.84% (7 of 13) of articles, a significant reduction or more than 50% reduction in pain in the group of patients treated with ketamine (alone or combined with other analgesics) was reported. However, in 46.15% (6 out of 13) of the reviewed articles, no significant difference was observed between the pain reduction in the groups treated with ketamine alone and ketamine with other analgesics. The highest decrease in numerical rating scale (NRS) score was 6 and the lowest was 1. There was also a 100% reduction in NRS score in 14 of 30 patients treated with 0.15 mg/kg ketamine and 0.5 mg/kg hydromorphone.

Conclusion:

According to the results of the present study, the use of LDK as an analgesic with low side effects can be suggested. However, further research is needed to determine the appropriate concentration with fewer side effects.
Trends of drug resistance to the commonly used antibiotics to combat the COVID-19 pandemic: Experience from a super-speciality institute of Northern India
Authors: Sahu Chinmoy , Singh Sweta , Pathak Ashutosh , Patel Sangram Singh , Ghoshal Ujjala , Singh Uday Shanker , Hashim Zia
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Purpose:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is purely a viral illness which is not affected by the usage of antibiotics, but the risk of development of secondary bacterial infections during the course of respiratory illness or hospitalisation has led to a surge of antibiotic use. Anti-microbial resistance has taken an upward trend to some of the commonly used or over-used antibiotics. The present study was planned to focus on the trends of resistance rates noticed for the common antibiotics, namely, doxycycline, azithromycin, and so on, before and after the advent of this pandemic.

Material and Methods:

The study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital of North India with 2000 samples, 1000 samples between March 2019 and March 2020 before the COVID pandemic and 1000 samples between April 2020 and April 2021 after the advent of the pandemic. Identification and zones for doxycycline and erythromycin were interpreted as per Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines.

Results:

Among the various samples, pus/aspirated fluids were in majority (47%), followed by blood (29%), respiratory specimens (18%), and urine (6%). On stratifying the various pathogens associated with the treatment of doxycycline and erythromycin, Staphylococcus species were the predominant ones in almost 82% of the cases, followed by Enterococcus (12%) and Streptococcus (6%) species. For doxycycline, the overall sensitivity was noted to be 46% in the year 2019–20 and 31% in the year 2020–21, whereas for erythromycin, the sensitivity was seen as 39% in 2019–20 and dropped down to 26% in 2020–21.

Conclusions:

The authors noted a dip in the overall sensitivity towards doxycycline and azithromycin. This finding clearly indicates the increasing rates of antibiotic resistance in a developing country such as India during these COVID times. A proper anti-microbial stewardship programme during these times will help to de-escalate the increasing resistance rates and will prove to be of great help to the primary care physicians.
Analyzing COVID-19 mortality in Ernakulam district of Kerala: A retrospective review of death reports
Authors: Rohini C , Kuriakose Serin , Philip Shoba , Sreedevi S
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

COVID19 pandemic caused considerable mortality and had a huge impact on the health system and the world economy. In this context, it is important to characterize the demographic and clinical features of the fatal cases and to have a basic understanding on the additional burden caused by COVID19 on the health care system.

Methods:

Mortality reports of 408 patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 in Ernakulam district during the period of 28th March 2020 - the day which reported the first COVID19 death in the district- till 28 February 2021 were collected using a uniform reporting format prepared by the district COVID19 surveillance unit.

Results:

Out of the 408 fatal cases 260 (64%) were males. The mean age of the cases was 69 years (SD:12, IQR:16-102 years). 31% (n=124) of the patients were admitted to more than one facility for treatment before the death. The median duration between the documented date of onset of symptoms to death was 11 days (IQR:0-46). Mean duration between the onset of COVID19 suspected symptoms to the collection of samples for laboratory test was 3 days and the duration up to the admission to a treatment facility was 4.5 days. The median duration between the admission to a facility and death was 7 days (mean 10, SD:7) with a range 0 to 40 days. The mean duration of hospital stay was 10 days for females and 8.5 days for males. Most frequent symptom at presentation was breathlessness 50% (n=211), followed by fever 43% (n=179). 96% of the cases were reported to have any comorbidity and among those most common was Diabetes mellitus and stroke 60%, followed by Hypertension 54%. However, there was no significant difference in duration of hospital stay and survival period across age group, sex or number of comorbidities which may need further analysis.

Conclusion:

6 out of 10 of the fatal cases were males and the mean age was 69 years, Though the mean age was similar for both sexes, median age was slightly higher for females. The proportion was found increasing as the age advanced. One third of the patients were admitted and treated at more than one facility and moreover 6 out of 10 utilized government facilities for treatment. Median duration of survival was 11 days while the median duration of hospital stay was 10 days. Symptomatology was found similar to cases reported worldwide. More than 9 out of 10 had reported at least one comorbidity and the most frequent comorbidities reported were Diabetes mellitus and Cerebrovascular accident. Most frequently observed combination was of a triad of Hypertension-Diabetes-Stroke. This data is of prime importance as Kerala is at an advanced level of epidemiological transition and demographic transition compared to other Indian states and emerging infections like COVI19 could be a double burden to the community.
Effect of SARS-CoV-2 on glycemic control in post-COVID-19 diabetic patients
Authors: Yadaiah Keerthi Bapanpally , Shah Chirali , Cheryala Vikram , Gali Jayasri Helen , Kishore Saritha K. , Kumar Ravi , Gunturu Haritha , Sushmita G
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Aim:

To study the clinicodemographic profile, outcomes, and post-COVID change in glycemic control among treated COVID-19-infected patients with poorly controlled or well-controlled diabetes mellitus (DM).

Methods:

Adult COVID-19-infected patients who tested positive with rapid antigen test or RT-PCR admitted were included in this prospective observational study. Patients were divided into well-controlled and poorly controlled diabetes group based on HbA1c values at admission. Telephonic follow-up and HbA1c estimation was done after three months. Clinical and laboratory investigations performed were compared between both groups. Hazard ratios (HRs) for mortality risk in both well-controlled and poorly controlled COVID-19 patients with DM was done by Cox proportional hazard models.

Results:

Out of 260 patients, 140 (53.84%) and 120 (46.15%) were poorly and well-controlled diabetics respectively. One hundred sixty-three patients (62.69%) were male, and the mean age was 52.67 ± 15.69 years. Severity, duration of hospital stay, steroid duration, insulin requirement and mean HbA1C, both at admission and after three months, were significantly higher in poorly controlled group than the well-controlled group (P < 0.005). With increase in age, the HR for all-cause mortality increased by 1.15 times (95% CI, 1.05–1.25; P = 0.0025) in well-controlled than poorly controlled group, whereas with increase in FBS at admission, the HR for all-cause mortality increased by 1.03 times in poorly controlled than well-controlled group (95% CI, 1.01–1.06; P = 0.0044).

Conclusion:

Our results show that well-controlled blood glucose levels or improved glycemic control are associated with a better outcome in patients with COVID-19 and pre-existing type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Knowledge and attitude of dental students toward HIV infection in Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Abiadh Ammar Ali S. , Jabali Mahmood A. , Sahal Rayan M. , Alzahrani Turki A. , Nassar Afnan A. , Marghalani Abdullah A.
Published: November 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Immunodeficiency virus infection is a major health crisis. It can spread to other people by transmission of the body fluid. The knowledge about this viral infection can aid in preventing its transmission and help in delivering successful dental care to these patients.

Aims:

To evaluate the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)-related knowledge and attitude of dental students and also to compare knowledge and attitude between a student’s gender and different clinical levels (second, third vs. fourth to seventh years).

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among dental students at the college of dentistry in Umm Al-Qura University in Makkah, KSA.

Methods and Material:

A validated survey was sent electronically to dental students from the second year to seventh year. The questionnaire contained 12 knowledge and 13 attitude questions about treating HIV/AIDS patients. Descriptive statistics were presented for the knowledge and attitude of the dental students about HIV/AIDS. Also, the knowledge and attitude were compared using t-test in relation to gender and clinical year.

Results:

The response rate was 65%. The mean and standard deviation (SD) for the knowledge score was 8.32 ± 1.60 out of 12. There was no significant difference between gender and a student’s clinical level. In the majority of the attitude questions, more than half of the students had favorable attitude toward HIV/AIDS subjects. Females had more favorable attitude as well as students with more clinical years of experience.

Conclusions:

Dental students showed acceptable knowledge and positive attitude toward HIV/AIDS patients. Students who were females and with higher clinical years demonstrated better attitude but similar knowledge to males.
Changes in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Korean adults after the COVID-19 outbreak
Authors: Kwon Ji-Young , Song Sang-Wook
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVES: This study sought to reveal changes in the prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) after the start of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and to identify the groups showing the greatest changes.METHODS: We compared the prevalence of MetS between 2017–2019 (i.e., the 3-year period before the COVID-19 pandemic) and soon after the initial outbreak of COVID-19 in 2020 among 24,564 adults ≥ 19 years of age using data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.RESULTS: The prevalence of MetS increased steadily between 2017 and 2020 (29.4 to 35.3%, p for trend < 0.001), with annual percent changes of 2.0%p, 2.2%p, and 1.7%p, respectively. Compared to 3 years before the COVID-19 pandemic, the prevalence of MetS significantly increased during the COVID-19 pandemic in males (6.2%p; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.5 to 8.9) compared to females (1.5%p; 95% CI, -1.2 to 4.1). The age groups with the greatest increases in MetS prevalence after the COVID-19 pandemic were those in their 40s (4.6%p; 95% CI, 0.9 to 8.4) and 50s (5.8%p; 95% CI, 2.2 to 9.4). By educational background, the increase in MetS prevalence was greatest among those with a college degree or higher (5.1%p). The prevalence of MetS in high-income (5.3%p) and low-income (4.6%p) groups significantly increased.CONCLUSIONS: The increasing trend in the overall prevalence of MetS continued during the COVID-19 pandemic. In particular, the prevalence of MetS among adult males in their 40s and 50s increased significantly after the COVID-19 outbreak in Korea.
Long working hours and the risk of hypothyroidism in healthy Korean workers: a cohort study
Authors: Lee Yesung , Lee Woncheol , Kim Hyoung-Ryoul
Published: November 2022

OBJECTIVES: Long working hours have been reported to cause various health problems, but are currently practiced in many countries. Building upon a previous cross-sectional study, the authors aimed to elucidate the causal relationship between long working hours and hypothyroidism through a longitudinal study.METHODS: Data were collected at baseline from 45,259 participants without thyroid disease and with consistent weekly working hours (36-40, 41-52, 53-60, and >60 hours) during the follow-up period. Hypothyroidism was defined using the reference limits of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine levels. By estimating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis, the risk of incident hypothyroidism was evaluated with 36-40 hours of work per week as the reference.RESULTS: During 138,261.7 person-years of follow-up, 2,914 participants developed hypothyroidism (incidence density, 2.11/102 person-years). The multivariable-adjusted HRs of incident hypothyroidism for 41-52 hours, 53-60 hours, and >60 hours of work per week were 1.13 (95% CI, 1.03 to 1.24), 2.53 (95% CI, 2.17 to 2.95), and 2.57 (95% CI, 2.09 to 3.15), respectively. In dose-response analyses, long working hours had an approximately linear relationship with hypothyroidism incidence. The risk of incident hypothyroidism in those who worked 53-60 hours and >60 hours per week compared with the reference group was significantly higher among the older age group (≥36 years, stratified by median age), men, and daytime workers.CONCLUSIONS: This large-scale cohort study demonstrated the association between long working hours and an increased risk of incident hypothyroidism with a dose-response relationship.
Une Préhistoire universelle? Enjeux des Researches into the Early History of Mankind and the Development of Civilization (1865) D’edward Burnett Tylor
Authors: Di Brizio Maria Beatrice
Published: November 2022

Figure de proue de l’anthropologie britannique de l’époque victorienne, Edward Burnett Tylor (1832–1917) aura également contribué aux sciences de la préhistoire, en théorisant l’universalité de l’âge de pierre dans l’ouvrage intitulé Researches into the Early History of Mankind and the Development of Civilization (1865). En abordant ce défi, Tylor propose un excursus comparatiste des connaissances sur l’archéologie, la linguistique et l’ethnographie extra– européennes, tout autant que des données sur la préhistoire, les langues et le folklore européens. Focalisant l’attention sur la première édition des Researches, cette étude analyse la démonstration tylorienne de l’universalité de l’âge de pierre, ses méthodes et enjeux épistémiques, ses notions–clés et données empiriques, ainsi que sa réception à la troisième session du Congrès international d’anthropologie et d’archéologie préhistoriques (1868).

A universal prehistory? The issues of Edward Burnett Tylor’s Researches into the Early
History of Mankind and the Development of Civilization (1865)

Edward Burnett Tylor (1832–1917), leading voice of British Victorian anthropology, significantly contributed to the sciences of prehistory by theorising the universality of the Stone Age in his work entitled Researches into the Early History of Mankind and the Development of Civilization (1865). In meeting this challenge, Tylor offers a comparative overview of extra–European archaeology, linguistics and ethnography, as well as of data on European prehistory, languages and folklore. Focusing on the first edition of the Researches, this essay analyses Tylor’s generalizations about the Stone Age, their methodological and theoretical issues, their key–notions and data as well as their reception at the third session of the International Congress of Prehistoric Anthropology and Archaeology (1868).
Endoscopic enucleation of gastric choristoma in a child
Authors: Lokhmatov Maksim M. , Solodinina Elena N. , Dyakonova Elena Yu. , Korolev Grigoriy A. , Budkina Tatyana N. , Oldakovskiy Vladislav I. , Tupylenko Artem V. , Efremenkov Artem M. , Kulikov Kirill A.
Published: November 2022

Introduction. In pediatric practice, one may encounter various volumetric formations of the stomach, both benign and malignant. The verification and localization of the neoplasma is the most difficult issue in everyday work. Most often, benign tumors are represented by a rounded submucosal formation, covered with an intact mucous membrane. The most common formations that can be found in a child are leiomyomas. Objective is to present the first experience of endoscopic submucosal dissection and enucleation of the choristoma in a child. Clinical observation. The girl was admitted for inpatient treatment with complaints of prolonged (2 years) abdominal syndrome and mass formation of the antrum of the stomach. According to CT data, a voluminous soft tissue formation 8 × 7 × 12 mm in size was revealed in the antrum of the stomach, which does not accumulate a contrast agent. When performing esophagogastroduodenoscopy and endosonography, a submucosal formation of the prepyloric stomach was visualized, with dimensions of 7 × 10 mm. The macroscopic picture of the tumor corresponded to gastric leiomyoma. However, given the clinical picture, it was impossible to exclude the chorous stomach. Thus, the diagnosis was formulated: volumetric formation of the stomach. Leiomyoma? Choristoma? In the course of further treatment, surgical treatment was performed, in the amount of submucosal enucleation of the formation. According to the morphological study, the remote formation corresponded to the ectopic pancreatic tissue. Conclusion. Choristoma does not always have a “classic” appearance with retraction in the center, and the clinical picture is of great importance in the verification of neoplasma. Endoscopic submucosal removal of gastric choristoma is a minimally invasive and effective method of surgical treatment that can be used in children.
La contaminación de la escena del crimen y su afectación en las investigaciones fiscales en delitos contra la vida. Caso concreto: Ciudad de Cuenca de la provincia del Azuay, año 2021
Authors: Guaicha Quezada Robinson Andres , Torres Wilchez Marcelo Urbano
Published: November 2022

La finalidad de este trabajo fue determinar la importancia de la protección del lugar de los hechos y la preservación intacta de la escena del crimen para la orientación de las investigaciones fiscales, ya que solo así, se podrá establecer el móvil de los hechos del cometimiento de uno o más delitos de inviolabilidad de la vida, tales como: homicidio, homicidio culposo, femicidio, asesinato, sicariato, y la relación con los partícipes en la infracción penal. A través del muestreo poblacional de los expedientes fiscales y de DINASED de la Policía Nacional, se ha determinado cuán importante es poder realizar trabajos de campo en una escena del crimen con la preservación de esta de manera correcta; y que en los casos que ha existido estas falencias, las investigaciones fiscales no han tenido la continuidad investigativa respectiva.
Comparison of Paired- and Multiple-Stimulus Preference Assessments using a Runway Task by Dogs
Authors: Cameron Kristie E , Siddall Andrea , Bizo Lewis A
Published: November 2022

Preference assessments identify foods that might be valued by an animal but do not capture differences in the magnitude of value. In combination with demand, the more effort required to acquire the commodity – the more valued and likely it is to function as an effective reinforcer for use in dog training. In the current experiment, two preference assessments' applicability was measured using a combination of choice assessment and effortful runway task. Eight dogs experienced a paired stimulus preference assessment and multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessments combined with a 3-m runway task. The preference assessments identified different most-preferred foods, but the same least-preferred foods. The reinforcer assessment results showed that the dogs moved faster to obtain their most preferred food as identified by the multiple stimulus without replacement assessment compared to the most preferred foods identified in the paired stimulus assessment. The paired- or multiple-stimulus-without-replacement preference assessments identified highly valued foods; however, the applicability of that commodity as a reinforcer was not independent of the assessment method. To ensure accurate reinforcer identification and consistency, a preference assessment should be conducted under similar conditions to that experienced when the reinforcer is used in training. Overall, the multiple stimulus without replacement preference assessment would be more useful to trainers, owners or scientists wanting to identify high-value foods for their animals to function as effective reinforcers for the elicitation of behaviors in a training context.
Perfection of Shariah Share in the progressiveness of the Halal Value Chain
Authors: Laksono Mufilh Adi
Published: November 2022

slamic capital market is one part of the capital market in Indonesia, stock prices are always fluctuating as well as commodities sold in the goods market according to the law of supply and demand. This research is descriptive qualitative discusses how the perfection of Islamic stocks on the development of the Islamic economy through strengthening the halal value chain in all of industries. Halal value chain is an economic sector that plays a role in economic progress. Considering the huge potential of Indonesia’s sharia economy, making Indonesia a consumer of halal products in the international market.
The effect of capital adequacy ratio (CAR), return on asset (ROA), inflation, BI rate on troubled financing in shariah rural banks in Indonesia 2015-2019
Authors: Ahmad Claresta Octavina , Amelia Erika , Putra Irhamsyah
Published: November 2022

This study aims to collect empirical evidence regarding the effect of CAR, ROA, Inflation, BI Rate / BI7DRR partially and simultaneously on problematic financing at Islamic Rural Banks (BPRS) in Indonesia for the 2015-2019 period. The method in this study using Multiple Linear Regression Analysis (OLS). The results of this study are the independent variables partially have a significant effect on the NPF variable except for the CAR variable. The variables CAR, ROA, Inflation, BI Rate / BI7DRR together influence the NPF variable. This research implies that based on CAR, ROA, Inflation, BI Rate / BI7DRR which can affect problems in BPRS in Indonesia, the results of this study have previously had similarities and differences with previous studies. The equation is that the independent variables jointly influence the dependent variable, and the difference is that the CAR variable does not have an effect on problems.
The Validity of the Short Run and the Long Run Phillips Curve in Kenya
Authors:   Department of Economics, Moi University, Kinuithia Peter Mwai
Published: November 2022

Levels of unemployment is of great concern to policy makers in most world economies. Many models have been developed to address the problem but no clear solution has been found. Closely related to unemployment is the problem of inflation. Stagflation, a condition where both unemployment and inflation are high at the same time has resulted to ineffectiveness of policies issued by monetary authorities in Kenya. Solutions to unemployment and inflation are challenges experienced by policy makers in many economies. The purpose of this study was to empirically analyze the validity of Philips curve in the Kenyan economy. The study was informed by the ever increasing unemployment rates, cost of living and the inadequate attention inform of policies made by the policy makers to alleviate the economy from this problem. The study adopted an explanatory research design and employed an Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and Error Correction Model (ECM) to analyze both the short run and the long run results. The study sample entailed of annual secondary time series data set for a period of 30 years from 1991 to 2020, sourced from KNBS, Central Bank of Kenya, and World Bank. The findings of the study concluded that the relationship between unemployment and inflation was positive and insignificant both in the short run and in the long run. The Non-Accelerating Inflation Rate of Unemployment (NAIRU) was estimated to be 6.26 percent but insignificant. The findings of the study also showed that money supply and government expenditure had a negative and positive but insignificant relationship with unemployment in the short run. The study recommends that the government should not employ Phillips curve as an instrument for policy implementation in Kenya. This is because both unemployment and inflation are positively related. Finally, the government should come up with a supplementary policy of cushioning the economy against the harsh effects of structural breaks on unemployment in the economy.
Mild Traumatic Brain Injury & Associated Hearing Loss Post Road Traffic Accident: A Case Study
Authors:   Assistant Professor (Audiology & Speech Language Pathology) Marthoma College of Special Education, Institute of Speech & Hearing, Badiadka, Perdala, Kasaragod, Kerala, AK Nithin , Jose Sagar ,   Bachelor of Audiology & Speech Language Pathology) Marthoma College of Special Education, Institute of Speech & Hearing, Badiadka, Perdala, Kasaragod, Kerala
Published: November 2022

A concussion could be a delicate variety of traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. The first injury in a very delicate concussion could be a contusion (bruising) the brain. However in moderate to severe cases, haemorrhage (bleeding) of the brain can occur. The most common causes of concussions are sports injuries, bicycle and automotive accidents, and falls. Purpose: This study aimed to use activity and electrophysiological assessments to analyse the association between hearing disorder and traumatic brain injury. Method: The current work describes the case of a 25-year-old male who was brought to the department with bilateral hearing impairment with no different otological symptoms. The patient’s history concealed that he had encountered a road traffic accident 2 weeks prior. The patient had no hearing issues prior the insult. The patient conferred during this case study underwent multiple tests including behavioural, physiological and electrophysiological analyses. Conclusion: All analyses concluded that TBI will have a sway on the sensory system and may cause hearing disorders. This study highlighted the particular impact of TBI on the auditory system and so, the importance of receiving a full audiological assessment post TBI.