bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formulation and evaluation of in vitro antacid effect of effervescent granules containing extracts of Evolvulus alsinoides
Authors: Jayasuriya W. J. A. B. N. , Hettiarachchi H. U. V. , Kumara T. D. M. T. S. , Dias N. T. B. , Arawwawala L. D. A. M. , Suresh T. S.
Published: January 2023

Purpose: This study investigates the in-vitro gastroprotective activity of the aqueous and ethanolic extracts of Evolvulus alsinoides Linn plant and formulates an antacid dosage form subsequently.
Method: Extracts were prepared by refluxing and the gastroprotective activities were then evaluated by in-vitro neutralising of artificial gastric acid where the neutralising effect as well as the neutralising capacity were determined. The effervescent granular dosage form was formulated using the freeze-dried powder of the aqueous extract. In-vitro gastroprotection of the granules was evaluated using Vatier’s artificial stomach model in addition to the assays mentioned above. A commercially available antacid formulation (Eno) was used as the reference drug in each assay whereas distilled water and ethanol were used as the negative controls.
Results: Both aqueous and ethanolic extracts of E. alsinoides exert significant gastroprotection in acid neutralising effect and neutralising capacity assays (p<0.05). In-vitro gastroprotection given by the aqueous extract was significantly higher than the ethanolic extract (p<0.05). Formulated effervescent granules also resulted in significant acid neutralisation compared to distilled water in each in-vitro assay (p<0.001). Further, the neutralising capacity assay showed the concentration-dependent activity of the granules. Vatier’s stomach model which measures the duration of consistent acid neutralising, demonstrated the significant activity of the formulation (p<0.001).
Conclusion: E. alsinoides plants in aqueous and ethanolic extracts bear significantly higher in-vitro gastroprotective activities compared to respective negative controls (p<0.05). Effervescent granules formulated using E. alsinoides aqueous extract resulted a significant in-vitro gastroprotection in all the employed assay models.
Morphometric Analysis of Dry Human Mandibles of Sri Lankans
Authors: Chandimal K. M. , Wickramrathna A. , Wimalasinghe P. D. , Ranasinghe D. M. , Yasawardene S. G.
Published: January 2023

Introduction: Variety of mandibular morphometric measurements determines the population and sex differences of facial skeleton. This study is aimed to determine the mandibular morphometric measurements of Sri Lankan population.
Materials and methods: Thirteen different mandibular measurements were obtained in 75 dry mandibles of which the gender and age were determined referring to the standard literature. Optimum measures were undertaken to reduce the intra and inter observer bias. The data were analysed using Minitab 19 version. Mean ± SD, mean difference and P- value of each morphometric parameter for both sexes were analysed separately by using Minitab 19 version.
Results and discussion: The sample consisted of 40 male and 35 female mandibles, age ranging from 60 – 80 years with the mean age of 67.545 ±4.36765. The mean value of each morphometric parameter in males were higher except in the mandibular angle and the height and breadth of the mandibular body. The maximum mandibular length, bigonial width, maximum ramus height, bicondylar breadth, bicoronoid breadth, bimental breadth and mandibular notch depth of males showed statistical significance (P<0.05). The mean values of all the parameters were different from values of the different populations.
Conclusions: Mandibular morphometric characteristics of Sri Lankans showed distinctiveness within the population and a direct relationship with the sex. These findings provide information for objective assessment facial skeletons of Sri Lankans.
Plankton and macro-benthic invertebrate diversity of Apodu Reservoir in Malete, Nigeria
Authors: Oladipo S. O. , Adeshola F. S. , Adelodun D. , Babafemi G. A. , Ajiboye A. O.
Published: January 2023

The present study investigated the physicochemical, phyto- and zoo-plankton, macro-invertebrate composition and abundance in Apodu Reservoir in Malete, Ilorin, Kwara state, Nigeria. Samples were collected twice a month in duplicate using standard techniques between February and July 2021. The physicochemical parameters of water: pH, electrical conductivity, water temperature and total dissolved solids were measured in situ using a portable water tester, and the other parameter were measured using standard methods. A sampling net with a mesh size of 0.5 mm were used for plankton collection while benthos were sampled using an Ekma grab sampler. The species richness and diversity were calculated using PAST 4.03 software. The result of the physicochemical parameters, phyto- and zoo-plankton and benthic macro-invertebrates showed significant differences between dry and rainy seasons. Nineteen species of phytoplankton and 13 species of zooplankton were identified in the reservoir. The Simpson index (1-D) values for dry and rainy seasons were 0.7654 and 0.8595, respectively, while the Margalef index values for dry and rainy seasons were 1.82 and 2.919, respectively. The study indicated that the reservoir water was slightly alkaline (pH 7.63 – 8.63) and had a low level of dissolved oxygen (4.9–5.8 mg/l). The occurrence of pollution-resistant phytoplankton species: Oscillatoria spp., Microcytis spp., and Microthamnion zooplankton species: Bosmina meridinalis, Keratella tropica, Branchionus calyciflorus and macro-invertebrates species: Namalycastis abiuma indicated the eutrophic status of the reservoir water indicating the reservoir is under anthropogenic pressure. Therefore, reservoir management activities such as protecting the reservoir areas and proper functioning of the reservoir to reduce, human activities are recommended.
Post-COVID multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults
Authors: Das Bikram , Joshi Divya , Vineeth V.K. , Naveen A. S. , Gopalakrishnan Ram , Ramasubramanian V. , Devi V.R. Yamuna , Nambi P. Senthur
Published: January 2023

Background & objectives:

There are limited data from India on the post-COVID multisystem inflammatory syndrome in adults (MIS-A). The objective of the present study was to evaluate the clinical profile of patients with MIS-A admitted to a tertiary care centre in southern India.

Methods:

This single-centre retrospective study was conducted from November 2020 to July 2021, and included patients aged >18 yr admitted to the hospital as per the inclusion and exclusion criteria.

Results:

Nine patients (5 male, mean age 40±13 yr) met the criteria for MIS-A. Five patients had proven COVID-19 infection or contact history 36.8±11.8 days back. All patients were positive for SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibody, negative for COVID-19 PCR, and had negative blood, urine and sputum cultures. All patients had fever and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, and five patients had left ventricular dysfunction. All patients had neutrophilic leucocytosis at presentation and elevated biomarkers such as C-reactive protein serum procalcitonin, D-dimer and ferritin. The majority of the patients (7/9 i.e. 77.78%) were treated with intravenous hydrocortisone (50-100 mg q6h-q8h). Six patients recovered completely whereas three patients expired.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Fever and GI symptoms were the most common presentation of MIS-A. Elevated serum procalcitonin may not be useful in differentiating bacterial sepsis from MIS-A. Most patients responded to corticosteroids.
The relationship between sexual self-concept and contraception sexual behavior in 15 to 49 years old women covered by community health centers
Authors: Doremami Fatemeh , Salimi Hajar , Heidari Zeinab , Torabi Fatemeh
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

One of the most important goals of sexual intercourse is to arouse the psychological effects of intercourse and to increase sexual self-concept, which changes following sexual behaviors such as the use of contraception methods. This study was performed to investigate the relationship between sexual self-concept and contraception sexual behavior in 15–49-year-old women covered by community health centers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present descriptive correlational study was performed on 297 married women referring to Isfahan community health centers in 2020 who were selected as cluster that randomly classified. The tools included demographic information and the Snell's Multidimensional Sexual Self-Concept Questionnaire, the data of which were analyzed via SPSS version 22 software by Mann–WhitneyUtest and Pearson correlation.

RESULTS:

Among a total of 297 women, 5.4% of the samples used hormonal methods and 94.6% used non-hormonal methods, which was the most common intermittent method. The results also showed that the mean score of negative sexual self-concept in women using the hormonal level method was significantly higher (P= 0.012). Positive and positive sexual self-concept score was significantly higher in women using non-hormonal methods (P= 0.048 andP= 0.002). Therefore, there was a significant relationship between sexual self-concept and contraception method.

CONCLUSION:

Due to the relationship between contraception and sexual self-concept, it is recommended to pay attention to the aspects of sexual self-concept and contraception during reproductive health counselling sessions so that if there is a disorder, useful advice can be provided or referred, if necessary.
The organizational health components for small-sized health-care organizations: A systematic review
Authors: Hadian Shirin Alsadat , Yarmohammadian Mohammad Hossein , Shaarbafchizadeh Nasrin
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Organizational health (OH) is an organizational aspect in which staff is encouraged to be clearly involved and participate in decision-making, problem solving, and collaborating to improve organizational climate and culture. Multilevel staff involvement facilitates strengthened relationships, open communication, trust, and organizational commitment. The purpose of this study was to find components of OH for small-sized health-care organizations.

METHODS:

A systematic review across three key databases by using an extensive list of keywords components and interventions was conducted. This survey included studies that explored various OH elements, components and interventions.

RESULTS:

It comprises 34 full-text studies from 221 received studies. Afterward, the OH elements were classified into three main categories (OH elements, organizational health literacy, and organizational health interventions). Then, according to the reviewed data, 23 dimensions were defined similarly for all groups of studies and relevant explanations related to them were reported.

CONCLUSION:

The OH encompasses multiple dimensions. Empirical research is required for designing a questionnaire according to the final extracted components and measuring its validation in small-sized health organizations.
Development and psychometric properties of teamwork scale in resuscitation: A sequential exploratory mixed-method study
Authors: Hosseini Mohammad , Heydari Abbas , Reihani Hamidreza , Kareshki Hossein
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Non-technical skills as a complement to technical skills have become increasingly important in cardio-pulmonary resuscitation, and teamwork is one of the most prominent of these skills. Because of the limited number of tools introduced and validated for measuring teamwork in resuscitation, this study was conducted to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the Teamwork Scale in Resuscitation (TSR).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was a sequential exploratory mixed-method study and was conducted between March 2020 and April 2021 and in two phases. In the first phase (qualitative), semi-structured interviews were performed with resuscitation team members who were selected using a purposeful sampling method with maximum variation in terms of experience, level of education, age, and gender. Using directed qualitative content analysis, the data were analyzed and the primary item pool was developed. In the second phase (quantitative), assessing face, content, and construct validity as well as reliability via the internal consistency and stability, the psychometric properties of the instrument are evaluated.

RESULTS:

The initial tool consisted of 54 items; after assessing the face validity, ten items were removed during content validity, and the final tool consisted of 44 items and three main categories including the essential prerequisites for resuscitation, leadership, and teamwork, which was scored based on a 5-point Likert scale from strongly disagree to strongly agree. The convergent validity and concurrent validity of the tool were confirmed. The reliability of the instrument was also confirmed using Cronbach's alpha test and re-test and the intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) between raters.

CONCLUSION:

The validity and reliability of TSR for measuring teamwork in resuscitation in a simulated environment are approved. Further studies are suggested for different contexts of resuscitation and with trained raters to evaluate its use in real resuscitation situations.
Translation, cross-cultural adaptation, and psychometric evaluation of the Persian version of the Symptom Distress Scale (SDS) in heart failure patients
Authors: Farahani Mansoureh A. , Shariatpanahi Shabnam , Tehrani Fereshteh J. , Boozaripour Mahsa
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Patients with heart failure experience severe and chronic physical and psychological manifestations while the disease progresses. Assessing the degree of distress caused by manifestations of the disease in patients is the first step in designing and evaluating intervention programs to improve patients' symptoms. The aim of this study was to investigate the psychometric properties of the Persian version of the Symptom Distress Scale in HF patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was conducted via methodological research design from March to November 2019. The translation process and cross-cultural adaptation were performed using a process recommended by the World Health Organization. The face and content validity and internal consistency were used to evaluate the validity and reliability of the instrument. The scale was evaluated by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis in 300 patients with heart failure, and the obtained data were analyzed using SPSS-22 and AMOS-22 software.

RESULTS:

The content validity of the scale was approved based on the results of the study. One-factor scale with 13 items was used in the confirmatory factor analysis, and the results showed that the instrument had high goodness-of-fit indices. Spearman correlation test for convergent validity showed a correlation between the score obtained by the Scale of Symptoms of Disease and the scores of The European Heart Failure Self-care Behavior scale (9 items) (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION:

The Persian version of the Symptom Distress Scale can be used as a valid instrument for people with heart failure due to its desirable psychometric properties.
The effectiveness of group intervention focused on intolerance of uncertainty on psychological distress and quality of life in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Rahimi Hani , Pirmoradi Mohammadreza , Lavasani Fahimeh Fathali , Farahani Hojjatollah
Published: January 2023

AIM AND BACKGROUND:

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-course incurable disease as well as an unknown prognosis causing patients to experience a variety of psychological outcomes. Meanwhile, inability to control the disease-related uncertainty leads to the use of maladaptive coping strategies, causing more psychological distress. This study investigated the effectiveness of intervention focused on the intolerance of uncertainty on psychological distress and quality of life in MS patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This research adopted a true experimental design. All phases of the study were conducted online due to the COVID-19 pandemic during 2021 in Tehran. The statistical population of the study was purposefully selected from among MS patients and was randomly assigned to three groups of 20: IU intervention and two control groups (cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and treatment as usual (TAU) groups). The study included pre-test, post-test, and follow-up stages. The outcome measures of the study included the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21) as well as Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54 (MSQoL-54). Mixed analysis of variance was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS:

The results showed that IU intervention compared to CBT, is more effective on psychological distress (depressionP= 0.006, anxietyP= 0.01, and stressP= 0.01) and quality of life (P= 0.001) in MS patients. Nonetheless, IU-focused intervention is more effective than TAU on psychological distress (depressionP= 0.0001, anxietyP= 0.0001, stressP= 0.0001) as well as quality of life (P= 0.0001) in these patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

IU-based intervention can reduce psychological distress and improve quality of life of MS patients. Accepting uncertainty can reduce the anxiety and stress of MS patients which can increase the quality of life of these patients.
Psychological features of the course of SARS-CoV-2 in individuals with chronic nephrology diseases
Authors: Savenkova Iryna , Didukh Mykola , Schevchenko Volodymyr , Oleksyuk Oksana , Yaroshenko Vira
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

It's already known for certain that SARS-CoV-2 can affect any vital human organ, and super-complex cases are even characterized by multiple organ pathology. In particular, complications of COVID-19 for the kidneys can be irreversible. Consequently, this virus forces us to review the approaches and standards of diagnosis and treatment in most nosologies to minimize the risks as much as possible. Thus, a low level of prediction of the course of coronavirus infection requires a comprehensive approach considering the psychological characteristics of the individual suffering from this disease.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The method of chronometric testing is used to predict the predisposition to the course of SARS-CoV-2 with nephrotic complications (using an electronic chronoscope) and calculate the duration of an individual's biological life cycle to predict the severity of the course of coronavirus infection. Experimental study of the localization of symptoms of chronic nephrological diseases in typological groups of patients with SARS-CoV-2 using the method of psychodiagnostics. The duration of the study is six months 2020–2021. The study was conducted under the guidance of a nephrologist at the Odrex Clinic I.I.

RESULTS:

The results of an experimental study show that the psychological type determines the predisposition to the course of SARS-CoV-2 with nephrotic complications; in most of these patients, severe (834 patients) forms of the course coincided with the end of quarters of the long biological cycle of an individual's life.

CONCLUSION:

The chronopsychotype makes it possible to predict the predisposition of individuals to the course of SARS-CoV-2 with nephrological complications and the severity of the disease.
'Eat Right, Future Bright: Nutrition Education Program' (ERFB-NEP) module for aboriginal primary school children in Malaysia
Authors: Nordin Nur A. , Haris Syasya N. , Hamid Syahrul B. A.
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Nutrition is essential for schoolchildren to reach their full potential psychologically and cognitively. Malnutrition, which is prevalent among aboriginal schoolchildren in Malaysia, can interfere their learning and academic performance. Developing a module to be used during a school-based nutritional intervention program is essential to ensuring that students develop healthy eating habits and lifestyles. Thus, this study aims to develop and validate nutrition education module focusing on aboriginal schoolchildren for the eat right future bright (ERFB) nutrition education program.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in three steps: Step 1: development of module based on literature reviews, Step 2: content and face validation of the module by the expert panels, and Step 3: face validation of the module by target users. This study has used the validation form proposed by de Castro. This form consists of seven aspects, two aspects related to content validity and another four aspects related to face validity. A content validity index (CVI) was used to analyze the content validity. Two formulas were used to calculate CVI, which were I-CVI and S-CVI. Meanwhile, the data for module's face used the level of agreement.

RESULTS:

Both I-CVI and S-CVI obtained more than 0.78 and 0.80, respectively, which indicate that the module has good content validity. Moreover, for face validity, the total of agreement from expert panels and target users was more than 75%, which is considered face validated.

CONCLUSIONS:

In conclusion, the module that has been developed has good content validity and can be used by teachers in teaching appropriate nutrition knowledge to aboriginal primary schoolchildren.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice of medical interns and postgraduate residents on American Geriatric Society updated Beers criteria
Authors: Rathore Aditi , Sharma Rishabh , Bansal Parveen , Chhabra Manik , Arora Malika
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) prevalence in older adults is increasing day by day due to lack of knowledge among medical students and professionals.

OBJECTIVE:

To determine the knowledge of medical students toward American Geriatric Society (AGS) Beers criteria for PIM prescribing.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study employed a self-administered questionnaire which was validated and designed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of medical interns and postgraduate residents on Beers criteria for PIMs in older adults. The study was conducted in Faridkot region of Punjab in 2019. This study will utilize a purposive sampling strategy and a convenience sampling of up to 183 participants. Mann–Whitney U or Kruskal–Wallis tests were used to compare different issues as appropriate. P values of <0.05 were considered significant.

RESULTS:

Out of 183 questionnaires distributed, only 155 participants (response rate 84.6%) had filled the survey and were included in the study. 61.3% (n = 95) of the respondents were males. The mean knowledge score of 155 participants was (5.16 ± 1.56), where the highest score was 9 and the lowest score was 2 out of 10. 15.5% (n = 24) of the participant strongly agreed that Beers criteria use is necessary in clinical setting and would be very helpful. While 22.5% (n = 35) of the participants strongly agreed that PIMs cause adverse drug event (ADE) and drug-related problems (DRPs) in older adults. Age of the participant had a significant effect on the knowledge score (p = 0.009), and participant aged between 31 and 40 years had significantly higher knowledge scores compared with participants falls under 20–30 years.

CONCLUSION:

Medical students and postgraduate residents had average knowledge of PIMs and are unaware of the standard guidelines in older adults such as the Beers criteria. Lack of formal education or training about Beers guidelines was the main reason responsible for average knowledge among participants.
The age of doom scrolling – Social media's attractive addiction
Authors: Rajeshwari S. , S. Meenakshi
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Human survival requires the ability to communicate. Today's students' use of social media has opened up a slew of new possibilities; nevertheless, it is hard to say how many more may emerge in the future. As the years have gone by, the use of social networking sites has grown in popularity among teenagers. This research investigates both the ways in which social media draws in users and the ways in which it hooks users by revealing the gimmicky worlds that they inhabit. Depending more on social media than on oneself causes a tremendous problem. It is quite challenging to separate human beings from their many electronic devices in today's world. The use of devices gradually began to take over the world.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Qualitative research approaches were used in this research. The qualitative study's findings were gathered from a variety of secondary sources, including media articles, academic journal articles, and past theses. Throughout the course of this study, a discourse analysis method was employed, and several case studies were gathered from news articles and journals.

RESULTS:

According to the results of the research, addiction to the Internet has been defined as a decrease in an individual's ability to exercise self-control within the context of the social-cognitive framework. The research is based on true events that occurred in and around India. This research article focuses on the various positive and negative effects that social media may have on education and students. It is critical to figure out how to tackle this issue.

CONCLUSION:

One effective strategy is to restrict their access to social media. The bulk of the disadvantages may be mitigated by reducing the amount of time spent on social media sites. Keeping track of their academic progress and dealing with any problems early on can help them avoid the negative effects of social media on their education.
The economic cost of cancer treatment in Iran
Authors: Jabbari Alireza , Hadian Marziye , Mazaheri Elaheh , Jelodar Zahra Khakdel
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

With more than 12 million new cases of cancers and nearly 7.6 million deaths worldwide in 2020, cancer is currently the third leading cause of mortality in the world. The costs spent on treating patients with cancer account for a significant amount of healthcare costs. Healthcare expenditures for cancer treatment have also increased significantly and are projected to skyrocket further over the next decade. This study was conducted to determine medical and non-medical direct costs for the prevention of cancer in patients hospitalized in 10 selected educational hospitals in Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study employed a cross-sectional design and was conducted in 10 selected educational hospitals in Tabriz, Tehran, Isfahan, Mashhad, and Shiraz in 2020. Using a researcher-made questionnaire, we assessed direct medical costs and direct non-medical costs of cancer in patients over 20 years old with kinds of breast, prostate, leukemia, lymphatic, stomach, liver, lung, bladder, uterine, and intestine cancers who undertook oncology treatments (n = 2410). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics including mean and standard deviation and analytic statistics such as Kolmogorov–Smirnov, analysis of variance, and t-test, using SPSS 18 and P ≤0.05.

RESULT:

The mean direct non-medical cost paid out of pocket per month was $99.6 ± $10.81 USD, and the mean direct medical cost per month was $1029.4 ± $68.5 USD. The total cost paid by the patients was $889.4 ± 69.81 USD per month.

CONCLUSION:

Given the increasing number of patients with cancer, it is necessary to increase the number of special centers for the prevention and treatment of cancers. Dissemination of information about the costs of illnesses and their complications enables decision-makers to make a proper comparison between different uses of resources. Moreover, to support the patients, the health system must implement plans to decrease out-of-pocket payments by patients.
Impact of a simple educational intervention on awareness regarding cardiovascular disease among school-going adolescents in a rural area of Bengaluru district, India
Authors: Bhat Vivek , Coates Reubel , Shanbhag Deepthi , Pillai Natasha , Zacharias Neha , D'Souza Reema , Mathew Geo Judes
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND:

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the number one cause of death in India. Atherosclerosis begins in the second decade of life; thus, preventive efforts beginning in adolescence are crucial. Yet, there are no national or regional school-based educational programs in India for the prevention of CVD. We aimed to assess the impact of a simple educational intervention on the awareness regarding CVD among school-going adolescents in a rural area of Bengaluru.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was conducted using a convenience sample of school-going adolescents of classes 8, 9, and 10 in three schools in a rural area of Anekal subdistrict, Bengaluru, with a sample size of 170. A standardized, validated questionnaire testing CVD awareness was administered, followed by a simple lecture with audio-visual aids on key aspects of CVD. Three weeks later, the same questionnaire was administered to the same students. The results were then analyzed using appropriate descriptive (mean, percentage) and inferential analyses (Chi-square, paired t-test).

RESULTS:

The mean (SD) age was 14.5 (1.0) years, and 54% (n = 100) were boys. 75% (139) belonged to privately funded schools. 23% (43) belonged to class 8, 37% (69) to class 9, and 40% (74) to class 10. The mean (SD) total score on baseline assessment was 27.4 (9.3) out of 100, with girls and students of private schools scoring higher. The mean (SD) post-test total score was 48.5 (15.7), with significant increases in all domains of awareness, and in all categories of students.

DISCUSSION:

Awareness regarding CVD among adolescents from rural Bengaluru was poor, highlighting the need for educational interventions to aid preventive efforts. A simple educational intervention resulted in significant improvements in CVD awareness, even after 3 weeks.
Eradication efficacy of high-dose amoxicillin and proton pump inhibitor compared with quadruple therapy contained bismuth in the treatment of Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Hajiani Eskandar , Hashemi Seid Jalal , Parsi Abazar , Seyedian Seid Saeed , Ramim Tayeb , Sabbaghan Amin
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Helicobacter pylorus is one of the most common bacterial infections affecting the world’s population. Peptic ulcer disease is caused by H. pylori and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. The aim of this study was to assessment of two antibiotic regimens in the treatment of H. pylori.

Methods:

A total of 220 H. pylori infected patients were enrolled in the randomized clinical trial that referred to Imam Khomeini Hospital gasterointestinal clinic, Ahvaz. Patients were allocated into two groups randomly. Group 1 received the 14-day proton pump inhibitor (PPI) amoxicillin-containing high-dose therapy and group II received the bismuth-containing quadruple therapy. Basic characteristics, adverse events, and eradication rates were compared between two groups.

Results:

The PPI–amoxicillin-containing high-dose therapy group achieved eradication rates of 73.6% and 72.4% as determined by the intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses, respectively (P > 0.05). The eradication rates at bismuth-containing quadruple therapy group were 77.2% and 76.1%, respectively, (P > 0.05). Also, there were no significant differences in the compliance rates and adverse effects between two groups (P > 0.05). Furthermore, the cost of medications in the PPI–amoxicillin-containing high-dose therapy was significantly lower compared with that in the quadruple therapy contained bismuth.

Conclusion:

PPI–amoxicillin-containing high-dose treatment regimen can be used especially in the pregnancy and lactating patient or low-economic patient because safer and less costly compared with bismuth-containing quadruple therapy.
Assessment of the knowledge and practice toward male’s participation during their wives’ prenatal and postnatal care at King Saudi Medical City, Riyadh: KSA
Authors: Al Khorayef Abdulrahman , Alghunaim Lina , Aladwani Nojoud , Al Otaibi Modi , Al Saeed Mariam , Alquayt Budur , Parameaswari P. J.
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Access to skilled health care services during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal period for obstetric care is one of the strongest determinants of maternal and newborn health outcomes. The main objective of the present study is to assess the knowledge and practice toward male’s participation during their wives’ prenatal and postnatal care at King Saud Medical City.

Methods:

We conducted a single center, a quantitative, cross-sectional study based on a personal-interviewed structured questionnaire in 2019 adopting a stratified random sampling technique. Married men above 18 years with at least one child were interviewed using a structured questionnaire.

Results:

The knowledge level was positive and moderately correlated with the practice on prenatal and postnatal care r = +0.641(P = 0.000) and was statistically significant. There was a significant difference between pregnancy intention and level of education (P = 0.000). The score of knowledge and practice increased with the increase in the number of children.

Conclusion:

Socioeconomic factor was the major determinant for men’s knowledge and practice in maternal and newborn health services. In the future, studies with a large sample size are required to increase men’s awareness regarding MNH issues, but should not be limited to this.
Investigating the effect of magnesium supplement in patients with major depressive disorder under selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor treatment
Authors: Nazarinasab Masoumeh , Behrouzian Forouzan , Abdi Leila , Sadegh Moghaddam Amir Ali , Sadeghi Susan
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Major depression disorder (MDD) is a mental disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. This disease has negative impacts on quality of life and psychological-related functions. This is a multifactorial disorder; both genetic background and environmental factors have their role. Antidepressants are prescribed as the first line of treatment for patients with depressive disorders. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants are used to treat MDD and anxiety; however, some patients do not respond to them. Regarding that, magnesium plays a major role in mood regulation; therefore, this study aimed to investigate the role of magnesium supplement in patients with MDD and under an SSRI treatment regimen.

Methods:

In this randomized, double-blind controlled trial, 60 patients with major depressive disorders based on the DSM-V diagnosis referred to Golestan Hospital in Ahvaz, Iran, were included. The eligible patients were categorized randomly into two thirty-people groups receiving magnesium (intervention) and placebo (control) along with SSRI for 6 weeks. To evaluate the depression status, the Beck II test was applied. Subjects were examined before and after the intervention.

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). The mean Beck scores at the beginning of the study and the second week after the intervention were not different between the two groups (P = 0.97, P = 0.56), whereas the mean Beck scores were lower in the intervention group than in the control group in the fourth and sixth weeks after the intervention (P = 0.02 and P = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion:

Administration of Mg supplement for at least 6 weeks might improve depression symptoms. It can also be considered as a potential adjunct treatment option for MDD patients who are under SSRI treatment.
Depressive symptoms in diabetic patients; prevalence, correlates, and moderating effect in Taif, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alosaimi Ameera Mishal , Alsulaimani Nada Hamed , Alotaibi Wejdan
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Diabetes is associated with a range of psychosocial stressors that could lead to considerable distress and increased risk of depressive symptoms. There is a pressing need to understand the underpinnings of diabetes-related distress and how it evolves in connection with depressive moods, and fears related to hypoglycaemia. Our current study attempts to fill this knowledge gap and further explore the interconnections between distress, fear, and depression among Saudi diabetic patients.

Methods:

Descriptive questionnaire-based cross-sectional study of type II diabetes patients in a specialist diabetes clinic in Taif, Saudi Arabia. We carried out Poisson regression modelling to evaluate the correlates of depressive and distress symptoms.

Results:

The study included (n= 365) patients living with type II diabetes. Cronbach’s alpha for the DDS-17 was 0.93, and for HABS was 0.84, indicative of excellent internal consistency. Diabetes-related distress affected (n= 114, 22.8%) patients, whereas depressive symptoms affected (n= 190, 52.1%) patients. The mean HABS score was 32.7 points (out of 70 points) (SD = 9.8 points). High physical activity levels were found only in (n= 23, 6.3%) patients and moderate physical activity in (n= 65, 17.8%), whereas patients with low physical activity were (n= 277, 75.9%). Diabetes-related distress was associated with increased HbA1c, presence of eye disease, comorbid mental illness, heart disease, stroke, and low physical activity levels. Depressive symptoms were associated with increased HbA1c, longer diabetes duration, presence of eye disease, comorbid mental illness, comorbid neuropathy, heart disease, and low physical activity levels.

Conclusions:

Distress and depression levels are worryingly higher than previous estimates from Saudi Arabia among patients with type II diabetes, indicative of an upward trend and/or a pandemic-related jump. One significant finding from our results is the substantial effect of glycaemic control on increased distress, and depression among our type II diabetes patients. This interaction is likely due to effects on self-care and medication adherence. We also confirmed the association between depressive symptoms and the duration of diabetes. Our results indicated a connection between comorbid medical illness with depressive and distress symptoms.
Association between periodontitis and preterm low birth weight in human immunodeficiency virus seropositive pregnant women in India: A cohort study
Authors: Kiran Sunkavilli Ravi , Karnam Yudheera , Ramya Yella , Niharika Bammidi , Rani Ponnaganti Durga , Sarma Sankar Narayana
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background & Objectives:

Because of the inflammatory response to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection and periodontitis risk of developing adverse pregnancy outcomes are high. There is a limited number of studies available in the literature regarding the association between periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially in HIV infection. So the main objective of the present study was to assess the risk of preterm low birth weight (PTLBW) associated with periodontitis among HIV seropositive pregnant women.

Methods:

The study sample consists of 216 HIV seropositive pregnant women with complete dental and medical history and the appointment for the follow-up visit was made after the delivery to assess the baby’s health.Gingivitis and periodontitis were assessed based on the bleeding on probing and clinical attachment levels at the first visit.

Results:

In our study, the majority of 96 (44.44%) of the gingivitis cases belong to “moderate gingivitis” and the majority of 62 (28.70%) of the periodontitis cases were found to be in the mild periodontitis category. The relative risk for women with gingivitis or periodontitis having a preterm birth, low birth weight, and PTLBW was not statistically significant. The trend of risk ratios was found to be increased over the severity of periodontitis.

Conclusion:

This study shows an association between adverse neonatal outcomes with moderate and severe periodontitis. But these results were not statistically significant. This study implicates the importance of oral health care in HIV-positive pregnant women.
Microspherophakia: A clinical approach and mini review with a case report
Authors: Das Sucharita , Agrawal Ajai , Verma Prashant K.
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Microspherophakia refers to a spherophakic lens with a decreased equatorial diameter. Microspherophakia can be found in systemic or ocular conditions, such as Marfan’s syndrome, Weill–Marchesani syndrome, iridocorneal endothelial syndrome, and Axenfeld–Rieger syndrome. A 3-year-old girl was brought with complaints of eyes appearing larger, watering and inability to see bright light for 1 year. On examination, she had megalocornea; the cornea was clear with a shallow anterior chamber, and microspherophakic lens. Her intraocular pressure (IOP) was recorded as 43 and 32 mmHg in the right and left eyes, respectively. This article guides in classifying, categorizing, and managing a case with microspherophakia.
Lumps, bumps, and…nerve-end stumps? A collection of guidelines for safe in-office lipoma excision
Authors: Holzmer Stephanie W. , Sharpe Frances E.
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Lipomas are benign adipose tumors frequently encountered by the primary care physician. They are the most common soft tissue tumor diagnosed in the adult population and generally present as soft, round, and discrete masses located in the subcutaneous tissues of nearly any anatomical location. In-office excision has become common practice, however, limitations of such settings along with varying locations and presentations of these lipomas may render the patient more susceptible to complications. This manuscript aims to provide the general practice provider with a set of safety guidelines for in-office lipoma excision, thus decreasing the chance of major complications. These guidelines include: obtaining a clear diagnosis prior to excision, ensuring familiarity with the anatomical location prior to excision, deferring excision if the lipoma appears to be located in the subfascial plane, and aborting excision if the patient is at risk for local anesthetic toxicity, if symptoms of motor blockade develop, or if uncontrolled bleeding occurs. The importance of these guidelines is highlighted by a case report of radial nerve injury sustained during an in-office lipoma excision requiring operative reconstruction of the radial nerve.
Role of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in irritable bowel syndrome patients
Authors: Alvi Haris , Ali Gohar , Iqbal Sadia , Ahsan Muhammad Nadeem , Avinash  , Siddiqui Muhammad Ali , Kirmani Tooba Ahmed , Irshad Ghazala , Baktashi Haisum , Asghar Muhammad Sohaib
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

We conducted this study on patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome without identifiable stressors and replaced them with vitamin D supplements for 3 months. Almost 97 cases have repeated the vitamin D status that appeared to be sufficient, while 14 patients were missing data for follow-up. The advised option was intramuscular injection replacement but 34 out of 97 were taken oral route for replacement of Vitamin D and incidental finding is noted that serum vitamin D levels rise less in the oral group than in the intramuscular group. Mean age of our subjects was 35.97 ± 9.89 years, comprising 54% males (n = 60) and 46% females (n = 51). In the outcomes of our study, 56.7% of individuals showed complete relief from IBS symptoms after vitamin D replacement, while 36.1% reported considerable improvement. Another 6.2% had exhibited moderate relief with about 14 individuals lost to follow-up.
Trends of rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis in COVID-19 patients: An observational study
Authors: Singh Nimmi , Singh Swati , Singh Priyankar , Mishra Navin , Sinha Bibhuti P. , Shrama Arbind K.
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim:

Mucormycosis is a potentially lethal but rare fungal infection that is rapidly progressive. Rhino-orbito-cerebral mucormycosis (ROCM) was the predominant presentation of COVID-19-associated mucormycosis (CAM). Hence, the present study aimed to assess the oral manifestations in CAM patients admitted to the Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences—A Tertiary Health Care Center.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted on hospitalized patients admitted to our tertiary health care center during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 54 patients were included in the study and were further evaluated for oral manifestations. Detailed history, clinical examination, and surgical exploration was done for all the subjects. All cases were confirmed by MRI and histopathology.

Results:

Data collected was subjected to descriptive and inferential statistical analyses. Patients with oral manifestations were mostly in the age range of ≤50 years which was 56.7% (n = 17). Male patients 56.7% were affected more as compared to female patients and most of the patients in our study were from rural areas 56.7%. RBS [Mean ± standard deviation (SD)] was 304.60 ± 100.073. On intra-oral examination 96.7% had a gingival and palatal abscess, 63.3% had tooth mobility, and palatal ulcer/perforation was seen among 56.7% of the patients.

Conclusion:

The second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic had also created an alarming situation in India and worldwide. Mucormycosis had come as a sudden storm which has created an emergency situation in our hospital and for dental practitioners also. This was also an alarming situation for a dental practitioner for evaluating early signs and symptoms, especially in high-risk patients and decreasing mortality.
The association of metabolic risk factors with ischemic heart disease and heart failure in Saudi Arabia – A cross sectional study
Authors: Al-Ghamdi Sameer , Al Otaibi Nasser Hamoud , Alqahtani Abdulhadi Shabib , Alosaimi Ayad Sultan , Alosaimi Sultan Hammad , Alotaibi Fahad Saeed , Alhammadi Mohammed Mutlaq , Alsulami Jabr Nahar , Alruwais Judan Fahad
Published: January 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading non-communicable cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed at determining the association of metabolic risk factors with ischemic heart disease (IHD) and heart failure (HF).

Methods:

A cross-sectional study including 104 participants was conducted in three major hospitals between October 2020 and October 2021. All adult patients of either gender, over the age of 35, attending the CVD screening program at the family medicine clinics of the hospitals were included in the study. The physician collected demographic details, history of CVD, diabetes or hypertension, and current medication. Each patient’s body mass index (BMI) was calculated, electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood tests were done. Univariate and multivariate logistic regressions were checked.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 47.6 (SD = 13.5) years. Diabetes and hypertension had increased odds of IHD by 129 (CI = 6.20 – 2698.42,P= 0.002) and 195 (CI = 13.87 – 2743.11,P< 0.001) times, respectively. Diabetes mellitus (Chi2= 11.93,P< 0.001) and hypertension (Chi2= 14.74,P< 0.001) had significant association with HF. Dyslipidemia was significantly associated with IHD (OR = 12.41, CI = 1.15 – 134.12,P= 0.038) and high-grade HF (OR = 14.91 CI = 3.61 – 61.40,P< 0.001).

Conclusion:

Age, dyslipidemia, diabetes, hypertension, and left ventricular hypertrophy have significant association with IHD or HF among the study population.