bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomy during the level 3 alert of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic in Taiwan
Authors: Tsou Hui-Ju , Huang Shou-Sen , Tsai Chung-Hsin , Cheng Shih-Ping , Chu Tun-Pang
Published: August 2022

Background:

Emerging studies have reported an increased proportion of complicated cases of acute appendicitis and increased prehospital delay during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. We wondered whether there was a difference in the perioperative outcomes of laparoscopic appendectomy during the 69-day level 3 alert in our community.

Materials and Methods:

Adult patients who underwent laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis between May 19 and July 26, during the years of 2019, 2020, and 2021 at our institution, were included. Patient demographics, clinical presentation, interval from emergency department (ED) arrival to operation, operation duration, hospital stay, and postoperative complications were analyzed using SPSS Statistics. The Kruskal–Wallis and Pearson Chi-square tests were used for the analysis of numerical and nominal variables, respectively.

Results:

A total of 94, 102, and 63 cases were included during the corresponding periods in 2019, 2020, and 2021, respectively. Patient age, sex, symptom duration at presentation, percentage of leukocytosis, bacteremia, complicated appendicitis, and white blood cell count showed no group differences. The interval between ED arrival and surgery was not significantly different (P = 0.753). There were no significant differences in the operation duration (P = 0.094), estimated blood loss (P = 0.273), or proportion of drain insertion (P = 0.626). The length of hospital stay (P = 0.681), incidence of postoperative complications (P = 0.894), and postoperative complications according to the Clavien–Dindo classification (P = 0.241) were not significantly different among the groups.

Conclusion:

Adult patients undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy at our institution during the level 3 alert of the COVID-19 pandemic had no statistically significant differences in perioperative outcomes, including operation time, estimated blood loss, hospital stay, and complication rates.
Is perinatal asphyxia associated with an increase in serum bilirubin in neonates? A case-control study
Authors: Rai Seema , Sood Mangla , Kaur Amarpreet
Published: August 2022

Objective:

Perinatal asphyxia affects different organs of body depending upon the severity of hypoxemia and ischemia. This study was carried out to evaluate severity of hyperbilirubinemia in relation to severity of asphyxia.

Study Design:

A case-control study.

Methodology:

Asphyxiated newborns with Apgar score ≤7 at 1 min. and categorized as severe birth asphyxia according to the WHO classification of diseases (ICD10) were matched with controls without birth asphyxia. All babies were examined twice daily for dermal icterus until start of phototherapy. Babies with congenital heart disease, sepsis, cephalohematoma, blood group incompatibility were excluded. Arterial blood gas analysis was done along with serial TSB measurement as per standard guidelines.

Results:

50 cases and 50 matched controls were enrolled. The average birth weight and gestation in cases was 2427 ± 30.05 g and 35.9 ± 2.5 weeks and among control it was 2633 ± 378.62 g and 37.76 ± 0.116 weeks. Among cases, onset of jaundice was 56.64 ± 20.43 h compared to 63.36 ± 23 h in control group. In the cases, the average pH was 7.31 ± 0.06, CO2 was 41.52 ± 84, O2 was 94.98 ± 14.83, and HCO3 was 18.56 ± 2.04. The rise and peak of serum bilirubin differed between the case and control groups; in the cases, the peak occurred at the 22nd h of life, then plateaued from the 40th to the 78th hour of life, and ultimately fell at the 96th hour of life. In comparison, the rise and peak of serum bilirubin occurred comparatively late in the control group. The rise and peak in the control group occurred at the 80th and 96th h of life, respectively. The multiple linear regression analysis showed CRP, Apgar at 5 min. below 7 and male gender significantly affects the rise of serum bilirubin (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The peak serum bilirubin in asphyxiated newborns occurs earlier, and plateau for longer duration compared to normal newborns. Low Apgar at 5 min. has significant correlation to earlier rise of bilirubin.
A challenging case of suspected solanine toxicity in an eleven-year-old Saudi boy
Authors: Al Masaoud Fatimah S. , Alharbi Ali , Behir Maryam M. , Siddiqui Aesha F. , Al-Murayeh Lujaine M. , Al Dail Abdullah , Siddiqui Rafat
Published: August 2022

Potatoes are commonly consumed food item that contributes key nutrients to the diet including vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber. Despite their nutritional value, potato tuber may harm human health by virtue of their toxic glycoalkaloids (solanine). Acute solanine poisoning can happen from ingesting green or sprouted potatoes. The toxicity of Gas in humans causes mainly gastrointestinal disturbances such as vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. However, at higher doses, the toxicity of Gas in humans produces more severe symptoms, including fever, rapid pulse, low blood pressure, rapid respiration, and neurological disorders. Though potatoes are widely consumed, their toxicity is relatively rare. We came across a suspected case of poisoning by raw potato ingestion in an 11 years old Saudi boy who suffered cardiovascular complications, and was managed conservatively in pediatric ICU. The diagnosis was made based on history and clinical presentation. The patient recovered completely and was discharged with counseling.
Facilitators and barriers in implementation of mass drug administration for lymphatic filariasis elimination in India
Authors: Sinha Abhinav , Mohapatra Sumegha , Pati Sanghamitra , Sahoo Prakash Kumar
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a debilitating and disabling parasitic disease of immense public health concern in India with more than 650 million people at risk. Mass drug administration (MDA) is the recommended preventive chemotherapy strategy to eliminate LF. But, its coverage and compliance has been a mixed success. There is an urgent need of evidence to strengthen the program further, which can be done by exploring and understanding implementer as well as beneficiary perspectives.

Objective:

To systematically review the facilitators and barriers experienced during the coverage and compliance of MDA for LF elimination in India from both beneficiary and provider’s (health system) perspective. Methods and Analysis: We will search at Medline database through PubMed and Embase, along with ProQuest and Google Scholar to retrieve literature. Original qualitative observational studies exploring challenges and enablers in MDA program will be screened by two independent reviewers systematically based on title and abstract followed by full text. The risk of bias will be assessed through critical appraisal skills program checklist for each included article. Data will be extracted in a pre-designed proforma with study characteristics, demographic features, and texts and quotes of qualitative data. Data will be analyzed through thematic analysis and motivation-opportunity-ability-behavior framework using MAXQDA software.

Ethics and Dissemination:

This is a literature-based review with minimal privacy concerns. The findings of this study will be published in a peer-reviewed journal and disseminated through policy brief to program implementers.
Breast cancer knowledge and screening behaviors of female teachers
Authors: Alduraibi Sharifa K.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Breast cancer is the second commonest cause of cancer-related deaths in Saudi Arabia. However, several women bypass early discovery and management possibilities.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in the governmental secondary girls’ schools in Buraydah city, Saudi Arabia, during the period from August 2019 to January 2020. The data were collected using a valid pretested structured self-administered questionnaire.

Results:

The study included 316 female teachers. The total breast cancer knowledge score was abnormally distributed, as evidenced by significant Shapiro-Wilk test, P < 0.001. The mean ± SD score was 10.66 ± 3.73 (maximum possible score: 15) and the median (IQR) was 11 (8–13). Less than half (42.7%) of the teachers reported performing breast self-examination (BSE (while only 9.5% went to a clinic for clinical breast examination. BSE was performed on monthly basis by only 14.8% of those practiced it. Ignorance of the examination and fear to discover a tumor were mentioned by 24.9% for each as a reason for not performing BSE, whereas 42.5% of those who did not practice it had no definite reason. Mammogram was ever practiced by 22.5% of the female teachers. Older teachers (40–50) reported higher rates of performing mammogram compared to those aged <40, P = 0.012. Also, teachers who had friends with breast cancer were practiced mammogram at higher rate than their counterparts, P = 0.025.

Conclusion:

The breast cancer knowledge is overall insufficient regarding risk factors and clinical presentation. Improving knowledge regarding risk factors, presentation, and screening tools as BSE and mammogram through educational programs is highly recommended.
Adrenal imaging in clinical decision-making
Authors: Mishra Divyangi , Shukla Ravindra
Published: August 2022

The differential diagnosis of space-occupying lesion (SOL)s of adrenal gland is broad and ranges from benign to malignant. The diagnosis is important as management and prognosis differ widely. Increased use of imaging has led to common phenomena of adrenal incidentalomas confronting endocrinologists and radiologists alike. Adrenal gland is the only organ in pandora’s box- abdomen - atrophy of which can have myriad clinical features and life-threatening implications. The adrenal imaging has come a long way from ancillary of biochemical diagnosis to mandatory in adrenal investigation protocol. This review attempts to summarize current status, future trend and pitfalls of adrenal imaging in endocrinology.
Integrated yoga and naturopathy on cardiovascular functions and mental health in a patient with COVID-19
Authors: Kavitha T. , Aruchunan Mooventhan , Pandian P. Soundara , Venkateswaran S. T.
Published: August 2022

A 43-year-old-married male diagnosed with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in July 2020. His symptoms as described by him began with cough and sore throat, breathlessness, generalized body weakness, irritability, stress, and mood swing for a period of one week. He was admitted in our District COVID Care Center (DCCC) located in Tamil Nadu, India. He underwent Integrated Yoga and Naturopathy (IYN) [i.e., Conventional medicine + yoga and naturopathy] for two weeks. The results showed negative Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT–PCR) test for COVID-19, improvement in cardiovascular functions (i.e., a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressures, pulse rate, mean arterial pressure, rate pressure product, and double product) and mental health (i.e., a reduction in depression, anxiety, and stress levels). The results suggest that IYN might improve cardiovascular and mental health of patients with COVID-19 in addition to positive to negative conversion of RT–PCR. However, further studies are required to warrant these results.
Case Report
Authors: Totaganti Manjunath , Kapoor Mayank , Kant Ravi , Jithesh G
Published: August 2022

Groove pancreatitis is an uncommon disease affecting the pancreatic groove region within the dorsal–cranial aspect of the head of the pancreas, duodenum, and common bile duct. The diagnosis is challenging as pancreatic adenocarcinoma also presents similarly. The patient can present with diffuse pain abdomen, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. The diagnosis is quite challenging, as it is difficult to differentiate it from other diagnoses on radiological imaging. Medical management is the pillar of therapy, and surgical management is indicated in recurrent and intractable symptomatic cases. Here, we present a case diagnosed as groove pancreatitis and managed conservatively.
Telmisartan-induced angioedema
Authors: Kumar Nitesh , Kiran Madhu , Gupta Kapil , Pareek Shatrughan
Published: August 2022

Angioedema is swelling that mostly involves the soft tissue of the eyelids, nose, throat, tongue, mouth, or genitals. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors induced angioedema is a rare but potentially dangerous adverse effect. A 52-year-old female patient attended the emergency department with the history swelling over the eyes and face past 3 days and having difficulty in swallowing of the food. Her medical history revealed that the patient was recently diagnosed with hypertension and was on the combination of Telmisartan and Amlodipin (40 mg + 5 mg). The medicines were immediately stopped and the patient was managed symptomatically for angioedema. The symptoms declined after 5 days of discontinuity of medicines. The case report can be considered as rare adverse effects of the Telmisartan. Angiotensin receptor blockers induced angioedema is a rare presentation.
Postural deviation in pregnancy
Authors: Sarkar Pradip Kumar , Singh Paramvir , Dhillon Mandeep S. , Bhattacharya Sudip , Singh Amarjeet
Published: August 2022

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of physiotherapeutic intervention to improve the deviated balance of pregnant women.

Method:

A total of 174 subjects were included in the study out of which 62 had postural deviation. They were divided into three groups, two intervention groups and one control group. The target population consisted of women in the antenatal stage, randomly selected from Obstetrics and Gynecology OPD, PGIMER, Chandigarh. The study was conducted over a period of 3 years (2014–2017). They were advised exercises, postural correction, regular walking, and hot water fomentation. Six follow-ups were taken into consideration throughout the pregnancy and postnatal stage.

Result:

The impact of the intervention package on both ante-natal and postnatal women with balance problems showed significant improvement.

Conclusion:

Postural deviations, pain, heaviness in the lower limb, incontinence, breathlessness, etc., are common complaints during and after pregnancy. The problem starts early in pregnancy and increased over time and may persist throughout life if treatment does not start early in the pregnancy. This intervention can be practiced in primary care setting after giving proper training to the health care workers by experienced physiotherapists.
Safer motherhood - birth preparedness and complication readiness assessment among pregnant women residing in urban slums of Marathwada region
Authors: Kadarkar Kalpak Shirish , Dhok Rajeshree S.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPACR) is the intervention for planning of normal birth and anticipating the actions needed in case of complications. It is a comprehensive strategy to improve the use of skilled providers at birth, the key measure to reduce maternal mortality.

Objectives:

To assess the status of BPACR and associated sociodemographic factors among pregnant women in community.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based descriptive longitudinal study undertaken at urban slums among 156 pregnant women with >28 weeks of gestation. They were interviewed for BPACR components.

Results:

BPACR index was observed to be lower 48.3%. About 88% were aware about any one danger signs of pregnancy. Nearly, 77% of women availed antenatal care service in first trimester. About 85% women identified skilled birth attendant and mode of transport for delivery, 66% women saved money for delivery. Most common danger sign noted was abdominal pain (65.38%). Mother’s education, occupation, parity, and socioeconomic condition were significantly associated with three out of four components of BPACR.

Conclusion:

Low level of BPACR index was attributed to low level of awareness regarding government sponsored schemes and danger signs of pregnancy. This highlights need of more efforts in services provided by health care providers and workers. There is need of intense Information, Education and Communication activity focused on pregnant women and their family members.
Recurrent oral granuloma gravidarum during two pregnancies of a patient with orthodontic treatment
Authors: Veynachter Thomas , Baudet Alexandre , Di Patrizio Paolo , Bisson Catherine , Clément Céline
Published: August 2022

The aim of this article was to present the medical management and follow-up of a recurrent oral granuloma gravidarum (OGG). OGG is a common benign tumour that can occur during pregnancy in response to poor oral hygiene and hormonal factors. Its identification and management by primary health care professionals is necessary, including an orientation to a dentist, if needed. Indeed, this lesion may induce troubles such as gingival bleeding, oral hygiene difficulties, and sometimes pain or eating difficulties, but also presents a high risk of relapse. An early twenties woman consulted several times during two pregnancies for an OGG presented in the same proximal maxillary gingival area. The patient reported dental hygiene difficulties because of orthodontic treatment and developed this recurrent tumour four times in two years, despite surgical excisions. Oral hygiene, and information continuously provided by healthcare professionals are required to prevent gingival inflammation and recurrence of OGG. This tumour usually regresses spontaneously post-partum, except in the presence of aggravating factors such as orthodontics treatment and mouth breathing. Surgery of OGG is required when it interferes with normal oral functions.
Determinants of wasting among under-five children in Ethiopia
Authors: Gebremeskel Menaseb Gebrehaweria , Tirore Lire Lemma , Derilo Habtamu Tamrat
Published: August 2022

Background:

In Ethiopia, wasting is still a serious public health problem in under-5 children regardless of the efforts done within the country. Although studies have been conducted in Ethiopia, multilevel analysis has rarely been used to identify the factors associated with wasting among children. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the factors of wasting among under-5 children in Ethiopia using multilevel ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Methods:

The data were obtained from the 2016 Ethiopia Demographic and Health Survey, conducted from January to June 2016. A sample of 8,919 children under-5 years was included. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14. A multilevel logistic regression model was fitted and an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was obtained.

Results:

The prevalence of wasting among children under-5 years was 10.1% (901), of which 8.1% (632) had moderate wasting and 3.0% (269) had severe wasting. Children aged 36–47 months (AOR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.4, 0.63), 48–59 (AOR = 0.5; 95% CI: 0.4–0.63), girls (AOR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.65, 0.87), smaller-than-average birth weight (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.44, 2.61), very small birth weight (AOR = 1.75; 95% CI: 1.34, 2.30) were the individual-level factors associated with wasting, whereas husband’s educational status (AOR = 0.37; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.69) was the household-level factor. Somalia (AOR = 1.72; 95% CI: 1.08, 2.74), Sothern Nations Nationalities and People (SNNP) (AOR = 0.39; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.64), and Addis Ababa (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.21, 0.88) regions were the community-level factors associated with child wasting.

Conclusion:

This study shows that wasting among children under-5 years is affected by individual, household, and community-level factors. Interventions should be strengthened to give attention to the child’s early age, male sex, low birth weight, and husband’s educational status. In addition, interventions should target the regions identified to have a high risk of wasting.
Journal of family medicine and primary care- A five year bibliometric analysis from 2016 to 2020
Authors: Mohan Sumit , Thakur Jyoti , Mohan Chander , Agarwal Sakshi , Tirkey Richa
Published: August 2022

Aim:

To conduct a five-year bibliometric analysis of the Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care (J Family Med Prim Care) between 2016 and 2020.

Setting and Design:

This retrospective secondary data analysis was conducted in the Department of Conservative, Endodontics and Aesthetic Dentistry, Dental Institute, Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi, Jharkhand and Rohilkhand Medical College and Hospital, Bareilly, UP.

Material and Methods:

The data of publications including research articles, review and case reports excluding editorials and letters to the editor, commentaries and invited articles published in the J Family Med Prim Care between 2016 and 2020 were downloaded from the journal website and analysed in terms of the bibliometric parameters.

Results:

The results revealed that the journal gave equal weightage to all types of articles. The total number of articles published between 2016 and 2020 was 2,426 out of which 1,666 articles were published from India and the remaining from other parts of the world. In India, the state of Delhi had the maximum publications while speciality Preventive and Social Medicine (22.42%) and General Medicine (23.12%) had the maximum articles. Moreover, between 2016 and 2020, J Family Med Prim Care had 2,132 citations of published articles and had 65 publications in 2020 about the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

Conclusion:

The issue numbers per year for J Family Med Prim Care has gradually increased over time. The publication is open for all fields of medical, dental sciences and allied sciences.
A cross-sectional study on stigma and discrimination confronted by HIV positive patients in the economic capital of India
Authors: Sahu Ajaykumar C. , Akhade Kiran S.
Published: August 2022

Context:

HIV/AIDS is a serious public health, economic and social problem. Stigma is a common human reaction to disease and discrimination follows stigma. Stigma and discrimination act as impediments to uptake of HIV testing, treatment, care and adherence to treatment.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to estimate the prevalence of the stigma and discrimination faced by HIV positive patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). Settings and Design: A cross-sectional, observational study conducted at ART center of a tertiary care hospital in an urban area.

Methods and Material:

Participants were selected by simple random sampling among HIV positive patients. A predesigned, pretested and self-administered, semi-structured questionnaire in local language was used to assess stigma and discrimination.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed with SPSS version 20 statistical software. Simple proportions, mean, standard deviation, median, range and inter-quartile range were calculated.

Results:

Of 336 participants, 170 were male, whereas 166 were females. The mean age was 36.42 years. The total mean scores for Berger’s HIV stigma scale experienced was 122.82, whereas for individual subscale Personalized stigma, Negative self-image, public attitudes and disclosure of HIV status were 38.31, 27.46, 33.09 and 23.97, respectively. The maximum participants expressed the stigma regarding disclosure concerns (58.63%) followed by negative self-image stigma (43.45%).

Conclusions:

Stigma hurdles the delivery of effective medical social care. People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) need to have greater involvement in their care, support and treatment. Support groups of PLWHA need to be established so that stigma and discrimination at various levels can be challenged collectively.
Working hours impact on the sleep quality and oral health status among migrant construction workers in Chennai
Authors: Suresh Sushanthi , Doraikannan Srisakthi , Jayakumar N D , Indiran Meignana Arumugham , Kesavan R
Published: August 2022

Background:

Nowadays, a shift in our lifestyle which espouses long working hours and low sleep quality can have a direct impact on the general health and oral health status. Sleep deprivation results from intense long working hours.

Aim:

To recognize the impact of long working hours, on sleep and oral health assessments of migrant construction workers.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study conducted among migrant construction workers working in Chennai comprised of 1,521 participants. The sleep quality was assessed using the Insomnia Severity Scale-7 and the working hours was found using the Google forms and their oral health status was assessed using the Oral hygiene index- Simplified (OHIS-S) and the Decayed Missing and Filled teeth (DMFT) index. The data were analysed using IBM SPSS Statistical Software version 23.0. Statistical tests like the Chi-square association and one-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) (normally distributed) were used for the analysis of three group comparisons.

Results:

From the study results, most of the participants were between 25 and 35 years, smokers, had negligence on oral health and had poor sleep quality due to their long working hours. On the association between the working hours per week and OHIS, DMFT and Insomnia Severity Scale total score, a statistically significant relationship was found using the one-way ANOVA.

Conclusion:

The results from our study brought neglected oral health care of the construction workers into the limelight which will help us in our future efforts to improve the oral health of the construction workers.
Relief of postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome with chiropractic rehabilitation
Authors: Chu Eric Chun Pu , Lin Andy Fu Chieh
Published: August 2022

Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is a form of dysautonomia that’s characterised by an abnormal heart rate response to a positional change. A 50-year-old female presented with lightheadedness, palpitation, and neck pain for 3 years. Lightheadedness and palpitation occurred when shifting from a prolonged seated or lying position. Standing radiographs showed spinal misalignment with cervical kyphosis and thoracic scoliosis. Continuous static stress on these minor variants could aggravate biomechanical and autonomic disorder like POTS. After ruling out cardiovascular, neurological, or vestibular pathophysiology, a multicomponent treatment approach was adopted including the use of thermal ultrasound therapy, cervical and thoracic spinal manipulation, and intermittent motorized cervicothoracic traction to manage her neck pain complaints. Following 3 months of regular treatment, the patient reported a full resolution of neck pain, dizziness, and POTS. At 12-month follow-up, all radiographic metrics showed improvement, including improvement of cervical alignment and thoracic curvature. POTS is a prevalent, under-diagnosed dysautonomia. This study might arouse the alertness of clinicians that symptoms related to POTS may be erroneously attributed to other neuro-cardiovascular disorders.
Adherence to healthy behavioral practices promotes COVID 19 preventive behavior among chronic disease patients
Authors: Rustagi Neeti , Choudhary Yachana , Kumar Nitesh , Shafi Shazia , Saurabh Suman , Thirunavukkarasu Prasanna , Raghav Pankaja
Published: August 2022

Background:

The coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to unprecedented morbidity and mortality across the world. Chronic disease patients of urban poor neighbourhoods are one of the most vulnerable population subgroups as the number of cases and deaths increase exponentially in India. The study aims to explore the factors associated with desirable health behaviours among chronic disease patients availing care from a primary health facility and examine their association with the COVID-19 preventive behaviour.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among chronic disease patients attending a health centre in an urban area of Jodhpur, Rajasthan. A interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaire was pilot tested and validated prior to initiation of data collection. A total of 520 patients were enrolled for the study.

Results:

Poor adherence to health behaviour was observed among a majority of the respondents (infrequent physical activity: 72.0%, one or less fruit serving per day: 96.5%, one or less vegetable serving per day: 88.8%). A factor analysis revealed three domains of COVID-19 preventive behaviour: sanitisation, preventive hygiene and social distancing. Multiple regression revealed respondents opting for COVID-19 screening and those with lower salt intake followed the overall and individual COVID-19 preventive behaviour.

Conclusion:

The health behaviour assessment and inter-personal counselling by the health care providers at the primary health facilities may contribute to the increasing adherence for the COVID-19 preventive behaviour among chronic disease patients.
Acceptance of covid-19 vaccine among the healthcare providers in India
Authors: Samantaray Aurobindo , Dora Susmita , Sinha Ashish K. , Panda Prem S.
Published: August 2022

Background:

By increasing immunity, the corona virus disease-19 (COVID-19) vaccine is expected to reduce the rate of infection and severity of infection, as well as the rate of hospitalisation. Healthcare providers (HCPs) can provide a good example when it comes to their health habits. HCPs are believed to have the best vaccine acceptance rates because they are open-minded and informed. By concentrating on COVID-19 vaccine attitudes among HCPs in India, the current study gives a clear picture of vaccine acceptability.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study approach was used. Participants in the study gave their informed permission. Snowball sampling was employed to spread the survey around social media platforms (mostly WhatsApp groups and email IDs). The survey was open from April 1 through April 30, 2021, and a total of 316 responses were received. SPSS software, version 25, was used for statistical analysis (SPSS, Inc., Chicago, IL, USA).

Results:

The participants’ average age was 32.8 ± 9.7, with 57% of them being male. 16.5% of the 316 individuals had a history of chronic illness. 40.5% had ever experienced COVID-19 symptoms, and 24.1% had been diagnosed with COVID-19 while on duty. Only 16.5% strongly agreed that they could get COVID-19 in the near future, and 48.1% disputed that obtaining COVID-19 infection would make them very unwell. Only 40.5% of participants were concerned about the possible side effects of the vaccine, while 63.2% were not concerned about the possible side effects of the vaccine. Only 39.2% were concerned about the affordability (high price) of vaccines. The majority (95%) of participants agreed to be vaccinated when sufficient information was provided, and only 31.7% agreed to be vaccinated if they were vaccinated free of charge.

Conclusion:

Due to the high level of current willingness among healthcare professionals to accept COVID-19 vaccines, these data may not be available to the general public. Understanding the complex and interrelated factors that influence vaccination decisions and the determinants of vaccine hesitancy in a particular population is essential to inform interventions to improve immunization coverage.
Probable sociobehavioural and environmental risk factors for dengue transmission in Puducherry, India – An exploratory study
Authors: Jeyapal Dinesh Raja , Krishnakumari Ambikadevi , Srividya Adinarayanan , Kumar Ashwani , Purushothaman Jambulingam
Published: August 2022

Context:

Dengue is one of the most extensively spread mosquito borne disease. Puducherry has experienced outbreaks during the post monsoon season almost every year since 2003. Understanding the dynamics of disease transmission and the conducive factors favourable for its spread is necessary to plan early control measures to prevent outbreaks.

Objective:

To describe the sociodemographic details of the dengue recovered cases, their clinical features, management, probable sociobehavioural and environmental risk factors for acquiring infection that could favour disease spread. Methodology: An exploratory descriptive study was conducted among 23 individuals recovered from dengue during the outbreak in Puducherry in 2018. An interview guide was used to elicit details regarding the course of illness from its onset until recovery as well as the probable sociobehavioural and environmental risk factors from each participant. Descriptive statistics were reported as frequency, percentage, and mean scores.

Results:

All 23 were primary cases of dengue with fever and myalgia being the commonest presentation. Two of them developed dengue haemorrhagic fever, of which one completely recovered. Five were found to have dengue–chikungunya coinfection. Lack of awareness about dengue, noncompliance regarding proper solid waste management and environmental sanitation among the public was clearly evident.

Conclusion:

Local transmission was evident as most cases did not have any relevant travel history outside the State and from the prevailing mosquitogenic environmental conditions. Dengue being a preventable disease can be controlled only with the active participation of all stakeholders including primary care physicians and the community.
Clinical diversities of patient eye care in para-COVID-19 era in Western Odisha
Authors: Panda Tarun K. , Nanda Priyadarsini
Published: August 2022

Background:

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic had an unprecedented effect on eye care services. The present study was conducted to assess the varied eye diseases and care around COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted at BBMCH, Balangir, Ophthalmology Department, Western Odisha, from September 2019 to May 2021 in three phases (i.e., September 2019 to March 2020, April to October 2020, November 2020 to March 2021). The total OPD consultations and emergency eye surgeries conducted around the COVID-19 period were retrieved from direct attendance in the OPD register, references, or tele-consultation.

Results:

Cumulative OPD eye consultations were found to be 13000, 3700, 7200 in pre-COVID, COVID and post-COVID period, respectively. Marked decrease in OPD cases (70%) was noticed in peak COVID period (April 2020 to October 2020) followed by slight increase during November 2020 to May 2021 i.e., (40% decrease). Allergic conjunctivitis was the commonest presentation in pre-COVID era, as compared to refractive error in COVID period. In post-COVID period, referrals, follow up cases, pending old surgical cases, red eyes formed major chunk of OPD attendance. Only 30% emergency cases underwent surgery during peak COVID, (Trauma cases, lens induced glaucoma, hypermature cataract, MLC cases, and one-eyed patients). But during post-COVID period this rose to 60%. Eight pediatric patients with intracorneal foreign body were given urgent treatment.

Conclusion:

Due to government guidelines and lockdown restrictions, majority (65%) of patients could not receive adequate treatment. But relaxation of rules in post-COVID period increased patient load to 75%.
Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) of pharmacovigilance among paediatricians of Odisha and factors related to poor reporting of adverse drug reactions
Authors: Behera Manas R. , Tripathy Ratikanta , Srivastava Vartika , Das Mangala C.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Children are very much vulnerable to adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and also tend to have more severe form of adverse effects compared to adults. Though ADR is a significant problem in children, paediatricians seem to neglect this aspect. Knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) studies related to pharmacovigilance among paediatricians are lacking in literature. Hence, this study was planned to know the gaps in KAP among paediatricians of Odisha and factors related to underreporting of ADR.

Materials and Methods:

Google Form containing the questions was shared to paediatricians of Odisha state working in both private and government organisations. The questionnaire was prepared based on previous studies and some new questions relevant to our scenario were added. The questionnaire contained six questions based on knowledge, four on attitude and three on practice of ADR. Apart from that, it contained questions to know their response regarding the factors that discourage paediatricians to report ADRs. There were 60 responses.

Results:

Among the paediatricians, 70%–80% were aware of the pharmacovigilance programme running in India. Also, 80%–90% agreed that ADR reporting is crucial in paediatric health care, while most of them were trained regarding ADR reporting. But only 50% of them had reported an ADR in their clinical practice, which clearly indicates towards underreporting.

Conclusion:

The motivation for voluntary reporting of ADRs among paediatricians for preventing the morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable population could be of immense importance, and hence, various workshops and CMEs should be conducted to improve the KAP of these doctors, so that the problem of underreporting could be minimised.
Comparison of rapid tests (antigen vs. antibody) for the diagnosis of typhoid in the first and second weeks of fever
Authors: Saini Vikas , Duggal Nandini
Published: August 2022

Objectives:

We conducted this study with an objective to compare the diagnostic accuracy of rapid antigen and antibody kits for early detection (<5 days of fever) and late detection (>5 days of fever) of S.Typhi and S.Paratyphi in relation to the Widal test.

Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted over 15 months, during which 180 cases of documented fever were enrolled. Paired samples (at <5 and >5 days of fever) were processed for rapid antigen test (RAg), rapid antibody test (RAb) and Widal test. Blood culture (BacT/Alert system) was considered as the gold standard for confirmation.

Results:

The mean (SD) age of patients with enteric fever was 16.42 (12.53) years, with a slight male preponderance (58.33% males vs. 41.67% females). Positive blood culture was reported in 58 (32.22%) cases. For RAg, RAb and Widal tests, the diagnostic accuracy was 45.56%, 42.22% and 41.11%, respectively, which was comparable for diagnosing enteric fever in cases with <5 days of fever (P = 0.675). For fever >5 days, RAg showed a significantly lower diagnostic accuracy (15%) as compared to RAb (61.11%) and Widal test (66.11%) (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

The study concludes that RAg marks a high sensitivity of accurate diagnosis in the initial five days of typhoid fever while RAb (with or without Widal tests), hold a superior sensitivity for diagnosis after five days of onset of enteric fever.
Barriers to treatment regimen adherence in Indian women with polycystic ovarian syndrome
Authors: Vijayan Smitha Moonjelly , Kalaivani H , Mitra Subarna , John Joseph , Anila A , Damini  , Boban Linimol , Chowdhury Pritha , Gayen Sriparna
Published: August 2022

Background:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder that affects women of the reproductive age group. Its treatment regimen comprises medication and lifestyle modifications. However, non-adherence to the treatment regimen is the most commonly faced problem among women due to various barriers, resulting in complications like insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, obesity, and infertility. Primary care physicians see patients with this disorder either at the initiation of treatment or on follow-up care after specialist consultation. So, understanding the barriers to treatment compliance, from a woman’s perspective and finding the solution to the same is crucial to successful therapy.

Objectives:

The present study aims to assess adherence to the treatment regimen and its barriers among women with PCOS and its associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study among 224 women who met the inclusion criteria responded through a Google form. Self-reports were obtained by a demographic proforma, medication adherence rating scale, and barriers assessment questionnaire.

Results:

Only a third of the women (32.1%) were fully adherent, 36.3% were partially adherent, and 31.6% were non-adherent. The most common barriers among women were lack of knowledge regarding the disease and its management, side effects of the treatment, long duration of the therapy, no relief of symptoms, bland diet, and lack of physical exercise. Treatment adherence was associated with socioeconomic status (P= 0.001) among women with PCOS.

Conclusion:

Adherence to the treatment regimen in PCOS was poor. Successful adherence depends on how patients understand the severe implications of non-adherence to the prescribed treatment and adjust to lifestyle modifications related barriers. It is also vital for health care providers and patients to identify these barriers, address them and refine treatment strategies.
An assessment of admission pattern and treatment outcomes of neonates admitted in centers under facility-based newborn care program in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Kshirsagar Vikas Devidas , Rajderkar Shekhar S.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Newborn period is the most vulnerable period of life. As the rate of decline in neonatal mortality was slow compared to infant mortality rate, improved neonatal health-care services were started in existing facilities under facility-based newborn care program.

Materials and Methods:

A total of six special newborn care units at the district hospitals and 12 newborn stabilization units at the subdistrict/rural hospitals were included in the study. The outcome parameters were analyzed in the admitted babies using statistical tests.

RESULTS:

The mortality pattern was higher among low-birth-weight and preterm babies. The lower health-care centers had less neonatal deaths, as the neonates were referred. The common causes of admission were neonatal jaundice, respiratory distress syndrome, birth asphyxia, and so on.

Conclusion:

The focus on the high-risk babies needs to be strengthened, as these babies are at a high risk for neonatal mortality.
Maintenance electroconvulsive therapy
Authors: Christina Munugapati , Chichra Abhinav , Kattula Dheeraj , Innamuri Raviteja , Akula Vishal
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

The available treatment options for patients with drug or treatment-resistant psychiatric disorders are limited. Maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (M-ECT) is an established option, but the literature available is limited. This study examined the utilization of M-ECT in a large tertiary care psychiatric facility, and its correlates with the socio-demographic and clinical profile of patients.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review was performed in a tertiary care psychiatry center based in semi-urban South India, and data was analyzed.

Results:

A total of 171 patients received ECT in the study period, of which only five patients were on M-ECT. These patients were diagnosed as treatment-resistant and were mostly suffering from schizophrenia. They were located less than 30 km from the hospital. They were on regular treatment but continued to have residual symptoms without functional recovery and required a high level of support from caregivers.

Conclusion:

Our study supports the effectiveness of M-ECT for the treatment of severe psychiatric disorders and highlights the profile of patients who have received this modality of treatment. It can be suggested with consideration of various psycho-social issues which seem to be related to adherence.
An ubiquitous entity of post-COVID rhinomaxillary mucormycosis
Authors: Dhara Vasantha , Kishore Krishna
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID 19) has left a trail of morbidity and mortality on a global scale because of the nature of the disease and its sequelae. One of the earliest drugs used to prevent the spiralling down of patients with the effects of cytokine syndrome were corticosteroids, reducing mortality. However, with the unfortunate injudicious use of steroids, opportunistic infections have created havoc even in recovered patients. COVID-associated rhino mucormycosis has seen a sudden spike in its prevalence presenting as an endemic in the midst of a pandemic.

Case Presentation:

Our paper reports a case of a COVID-recovered patient who presented with bilateral disease involving the maxillary sinus and palate on one side and the zygoma and orbit on the other.

Discussion:

Diagnosing and treating maxillary or orbital or cerebral extensions of rhino mucormycosis requires a thorough judicious approach. Imaging, meticulous intra-operative evaluation, and aggressive medical and surgical treatment are necessary.

Conclusion:

This case report highlights a peculiar case of an asymmetrical bilateral presentation of post-COVID mucormycosis involving different anatomical spaces.
A case report on anesthetic challenges in the post-Covid complication of active mucormycosis
Authors: Uppalapati Vamsi K. , Ranjan Rajeev , Singh Umesh K. , Kumar Himanshu , Shukla Rajiv
Published: August 2022

Mucormycosis is a well-known yet complicated illness that seems benign but behaves malignantly. This article discusses the anesthesia challenges in providing care for a 49-year-old male who presented with post-Covid pneumonia and uncontrolled diabetes along with active mucormycosis and scheduled for functional endoscope sinus surgery (FESS) and debridement of necrotic tissue. We want to illustrate the importance of anticipated difficult airway, while highlighting the toxicity of intravenous amphotericin-B and its combination against anesthesia drugs.
Persistent pneumothorax with bronchopleural fistula in COVID lung – An emerging challenge
Authors: Jagaty Suman K. , Behera Debasis , Gupta Saurabh , Subhankar Saswat , Rao Chinnari M. , Jeeshitha Maram R.
Published: August 2022

Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is an uncommon entity in patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). It may arise due to various causes ranging from the disease itself to complications of treatment. If left untreated, it may increase the morbidity, hospital stay, and adversely affect the outcome. We hereby present a series of cases with a persistent pneumothorax and associated BPF due to varying etiologies. While three of our cases developed a pneumothorax while on non-invasive ventilation, other three were on oxygen therapy. One patient developed a spontaneous pyopneumothorax and septicemia and succumbed to the complications. Another patient on non-invasive ventilation died due to complications of pregnancy. The management of each case varied depending on their clinical presentation.