bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morbidity profile of orphan children in Southern India
Authors: Toutem Shraddha , Singh Vanya , Ganguly Enakshi
Published: August 2018

Background: Orphan children globally and in India are increasing. Magnitude of their health problems is unknown. The present study was carried out to assess the morbidity pattern of orphan children aged 10-16 years, assess their knowledge about signs and symptoms of common childhood morbidities and treatment-seeking practices.Methods: One hundred institutionalized orphan children aged 10-16 years were studied for 6 months. Data was collected by trained investigators regarding sociodemographic background, awareness about common morbidities and treatment seeking practices. Thorough clinical examination and anthropometric measurements were done. Distribution of morbidities was shown.Results: 80% of the boys and 68% of the girls had low BMI. 78% suffered from multiple morbidities of which 76% had infections of skin and appendages while 74% had ear problems. 26% had diarrhea and 21% had B-complex deficiency. The mean duration of all diseases was 7±1.1 days. Awareness about diseases and their complications was low; and self-care was highly prevalent for most health problems.Conclusions: Orphan children in South India suffer from many morbidities about which their awareness and treatment seeking is low.
Vitamin D status in exclusively breast-fed infants and their mothers
Authors: C. R. Vignesh Kumaran , S. Sundari , Ramesh Shanthi
Published: August 2018

Background: India, despite being a tropical country has widespread vitamin D deficiency across all age groups. Present study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of subclinical hypovitaminosis D in exclusively breastfed infants and their mothers and also to study the correlation between the Vitamin D levels of these infants and their mothers.Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in 37 exclusively breastfed infants aged 6 months and below and their mothers.  Under strict aseptic precautions 2 ml of blood was taken from each infant and mother and serum levels of 25(OH) D levels were measured by the direct ELISA method. Statistical analysis was done by using chi-square test, one-way ANOVA f-test and student independent t-test.Results: In present study, authors found that 78.3% of the mothers were Vitamin D deficient and 21.7% of the mothers were Vitamin D insufficient. Among the infants, authors found that 91.9% of the infants were Vitamin D deficient and 8.1% of the infants were Vitamin D insufficient. The association between dietary pattern and socio-economic class and mean maternal vitamin D levels was found to be statistically significant (p <0.05).Conclusions: There is a high prevalence of hypovitaminosis D amongst exclusively breastfed infants and their mothers. Hence, public awareness needs to be created regarding the benefits of sunlight exposure. Vitamin D fortification of food products and routine Vitamin D supplementation program for antenatal and lactating mothers and their young infants may be able to address this emerging public health problem in our country.
Study of clinico-epidemiological risk factors associated with enteric encephalopathy in children
Authors: Panda Prateek Kumar , Panda Kalpana
Published: August 2018

Background: Although relatively less prevalent, yet enteric encephalopathy is one of the severe complications of enteric fever, which often remains underdiagnosed and undertreated. Data on enteric encephalopathy in children in Indian literature is scarce.Methods: Current retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the case records of all children admitted with enteric fever between January 2013 and December 2017 in a tertiary health care center. Then the clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters of the subgroup with and without enteric encephalopathy was compared.Results: Out of the 295 children with enteric fever, 19 children (6.4%) had evidence of enteric encephalopathy during hospital stay. Common clinical presentations were altered sensorium, gait instability, seizure, irrelevant talking and behavioral abnormality. All the children survived after being treated with intravenous dexamethasone along with antibiotics. As compared to the group without encephalopathy, this group had more children with lower socioeconomic status, delayed treatment initiation, malnutrition, higher respiratory rate and heart rate, lower leukocyte and platelet count, higher incidence of hepatic dysfunction, higher Salmonella typhi H and O agglutinin titer.Conclusions: Appropriate clinical suspicion for early diagnosis, timely treatment with dexamethasone and good supportive care is likely to cause favorable outcome in children with enteric encephalopathy.
A study of pattern of some common infections in children one month to five years of age
Authors: Saikia D. , Sharma R. K.
Published: August 2018

Background: Understanding the causes of child mortality provides important public health insights. Globally 6.9 million deaths in children under-5 occurred in 2011. The objective of the present study was to study the pattern of some common infections in children one month to five years of ageMethods: Observational descriptive study was conducted at Department of Paediatric from July 2012 to June 2013 among 368 randomly selected children. Standard diagnostic criteria for Respiratory tract infection, Diarrhea, Tuberculosis, Urinary tract infection, Malaria, Enteric fever, Measles, Pyoderma, Parasitic infections was followed for all children.Results: Respiratory tract infection and Diarrhea occurred most frequently in 7 to 24 month of child that was 82 (51.9%) and 53 (58.2%), respectively. Stool examination in Parasitic infestation showed that Amoeba 1 (7.1%), Giardia 1 (7.1%), Ascariasis 6 (42%), and Hookworms were 6 (42%) in total of 14 cases. Anemia was present in URI, Tuberculosis, Malaria, and Parasitic infestation with mean hemoglobin (Hb) ranges from 8.6 to 9.2. Mantoux showed that 20 (87%) cases had mantoux > 10 mm. Malarial species found were Vivax (16, 66.7%). Respiratory tract infection occurred mostly in winter season.Conclusions: Most common infections in children 1 month to 5 years of age was Respiratory tract infection followed by diarrhea, enteric fever, malaria, tuberculosis, urinary tract infection, parasitic infection, measles and pyoderma.
Factors affecting prevalence of overweight and obesity in urban adolescents: a study from North Chennai, India
Authors: Elangovan Harikrishnan , Kumar Rajesh
Published: August 2018

Background: Obesity is escalating at an alarming rate especially among the urban population. Obesity in childhood is an important risk factor for obesity in adulthood. Overweight and obesity are related to physically inactivity, high social economic back ground and dietary transition. This study was done to estimate the overall prevalence of overweight and obesity among urban adolescents and to examine its associated factors.Methods: This is a cross sectional community-based study conducted in North Chennai Corporation Zone II over a period of 2 years. A predesigned proforma was used to collect the demographic profile, socioeconomic status and level of physical activity. Trained Investigators were used to measure anthropometric measures. Data were analyzed with SPSS 16.0 and P value of <0.05 is taken as statistically significant.Results: A total of 4900 children (M: 2317, F: 2583) were included in the study. The prevalence of overweight and obesity were found as 22.1 % and 4.1%. The proportion of overweight was highest at 14 years for boys and 15 years for girls. There is a statistical significance for overweight in relation to sex (P = 0.001), socioeconomic status (P = 0.00001), parent’s occupation (P = 0.00001) and literacy status (P = 0.00001), junk food preference (P = 0.00001), mode of conveyance (P = 0.00001) and level of physical activity (P=0.00001).Conclusions: As obesity in childhood has high risk of comorbidities, intervention studies have to be planned to educate the adolescents as they are the future society and the role models for their off springs.
Immune thrombocytopenic purpura secondary to tuberculosis
Authors: Bharadwaj Rishab , Munirathnam Deenadayalan , Sivabalan Somu
Published: August 2018

Immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a clinical syndrome characterized by reduced number of circulating platelets. The cause of ITP remains unknown in most cases, although it can be triggered by a viral infection or other immune trigger. Although tuberculosis is associated with a wide range of hematological manifestations, ITP secondary to tuberculosis is a very rare manifestation, especially in children. We describe an 11-year-old female child who presented with skin and mucosal bleeds, thrombocytopenia and chronic submandibular lymphadenitis. Blood and bone marrow investigations were suggestive of ITP. She received IVIg, but response was unsatisfactory, hence she was started on steroids. Concurrently, GeneXpert of lymph node biopsy was positive for tuberculosis. A diagnosis of ITP secondary to tuberculous lymphadenitis was made. She received 6 months of anti-tuberculosis therapy. Steroids were tapered and stopped within 2 months. She responded well with restoration of normal platelet counts and regression of lymphadenopathy. Tuberculosis should be considered as one of the secondary causes of ITP, especially in highly endemic countries.
Congenital Toxoplasmosis presenting as multiple ring enhancing lesions in brain on neuroimaging
Authors: Thakkar Pareshkumar A. , Shah Aakashi , Javadekar Bakul B. , Modasia Saurabh
Published: August 2018

We report a case of congenital toxoplasmosis in a male child who presented at 1 month 21 days of life. He had a past history of meningitis on third day of life which resolved with intravenous antibiotics. This time, the child presented with progressive enlargement of head and CSF (Cerebrospinal fluid) showed elevated protein levels with cellular reaction and CT scan showed dilated ventricular system with aqueductal obstruction and multiple ring-enhancing lesions in bifrontal and bioccipital regions with a right porencephalic cyst. Repeat CSF after 14 days of intravenous antibiotics showed elevated protein with no cellular reaction. Fundus examination was normal. Toxoplasma blood serology (IgG and IgM) in baby and mother were positive. The child received treatment with Pyrimethamine, Clindamycin, Folinic acid and Prednisolone. CSF parameters got normalized and multiple ring-enhancing lesions disappeared on repeat CT scan. He underwent a Ventriculo-Peritoneal shunt surgery for the hydrocephalus and was discharged in a stable condition.
Urinary ascitis in neonate with posterior urethral valve
Authors: Malvia Sunny , Meena Pradeep , Goyal Suresh , Mehrotra Juhi , Rawat Ravi
Published: August 2018

Urinary ascites in a newborn infant is not very common. It indicates a disruption to the integrity of the urinary tract. Urinary tract obstruction leads to increased pressure which causes urine collection within the peri-renal spaces and subsequent urinary ascites either by calyceal perforation or filtration through the walls of urinary tract. Posterior urethral valve is most common cause of urinary tract obstruction in male child. The report describes a male child of age 17 days, presented with gross abdomen distension and diagnosed as urinary ascites, due to underlying posterior urethral valve. The abdominal distension was relieved with subsequent drainage of urine. Diagnosis was made using imaging techniques and corrective surgery planned.
Improving hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers in intensive care unit: an interventional study
Authors: Abdo Naglaa M. , Al-Fadhli Mariam
Published: August 2018

Background: Hand hygiene (HH) is one of the most important measures to prevent healthcare-associated infections. The objective of the study was to assess the effectiveness of the augmented multi-interventional approaches on HH compliance rate among intensive care unit (ICU) healthcare workers (HCWs) of Farwaniya Hospital, Kuwait.Methods: An interventional study was conducted in four phases throughout eight months among adult ICU HCWs. First; HCWs, HH compliance rates and alcohol-based hand rub consumption rate (ABHR) were assessed secondly; an augmented multi-interventional approach was implemented, which included administrative support, observation and reporting, education & training, recruiting champions, and maintenance of HH supplies & reminders. Then a washout phase. Finally, re-assessment of HH compliance rates and ABHR.Results: Following the interventions, the overall HCWs’ HH compliance rate increased significantly from 58.81% to 73.17% (p=0.000), for doctors (39.82% vs. 64.93%) and nurses (68.24% vs. 80.18%), p>0.001. Significant improvement of HH compliance rates for most of HH moments, after moments were higher than before moments, p=0.000. ABHR increased significantly from 77.45 ml to 133.33 ml per patient day (95% CI=54.37-57.39, p<0.0001).Conclusions: The applied augmented multi-interventional approach was effective in improving HH compliance rates among ICU HCWs. Sustainability is warranted by continues implementation of this approach.
Detection of biofilm formation by Escherichia coli with its antibiogram profile
Authors: Risal Gaurab , Shrestha Aayush , Kunwar Saroj , Paudel Gajal , Dhital Rameshwor , Budha Man Bahadur , Nepal Rupa
Published: August 2018

Background: In urinary tract infections, an important role is played by bacterial biofilms which are responsible for persistence infections together with the antimicrobial resistance. Higher resistance can be seen in biofilm forming uropathogens in comparison with free-floating bacteria. So, the present study was performed with a goal to find the prevalence of biofilm formation and also the antimicrobial resistant pattern of uropathogens.Methods: A descriptive method was conducted at Modern Technical College, Sanepa, Lalitpur in samples isolated from UTI suspected patients. The overall duration of this study was approximately 3 months. Total of 50 isolated E. coli was tested for biofilm formation and antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done by Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method on Mueller Hinton agar as per CLSI guidelines.Results: From the 50 isolates of E. coli, 32 were biofilm producers (3 strong and 29 moderate) and 18 were weak/non-biofilm producers. Among the biofilm producers, cefotaxime was more resistant in 20 of the isolates followed by ceftriaxone in 16 and amoxyclav in 13, whereas amikacin was least resistant in 2 of the isolates.Conclusions: Among the isolated E. coli, biofilm-forming isolates showed higher antimicrobial resistance as compared to the non-biofilm producer. Thus, uropathogen should be routinely screened for biofilm formation.
A study to assess knowledge and skill among doctors about hand hygiene, WHO five moments, personal protective equipment’s and assess the impact of educational intervention, in tertiary care hospital, Al Qassim provenance of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Kumar Gupta Sanjay , Al Khaleefah Fahd Khaleefah , Saifi Al Harbi Ibrahim , Jabar Sinimol , Torre Marilou A. , Mathias Sunitha Lorin
Published: August 2018

Background: Hand hygiene (HH) is now to be considered as one of the most important effective measure of infection control activities. This is because enough scientific evidence suggested the observation that if properly implemented, hand hygiene alone can significantly reduce the risk of cross-transmission of infection in healthcare facilities.Methods: Hospital based educational intervention.Results: The study results showed the overall improvement pre and post educational intervention regarding hand hygiene skills, five moments and donning and doffing of PPE was significantly improved from 56.50% to 94.51%. If we see the knowledge and skills among doctors between department than we found significantly low knowledge and skills among (pre-interventional) doctors of radiology 23.33% followed by orthopedics 42.50%. The post educational interventions improvement in intensive care unit, laboratory, ENT and dental department were near 100% and lowest observed in departments in pediatrics (84%).Conclusions: The study shows that need for the doctors to increase their knowledge and skill related to infection prevention and control practice by assessing their existing knowledge and skills in small groups and according to observations intervention also plan and its improved knowledge and skill significantly.
A comparative and cross-sectional study on the prevalence of risk factors for mouth ulcer and oral cancers in migrants and native population of a tourist city of Rajasthan
Authors: Kumar Rupesh , Hathi Maitri R.
Published: August 2018

Background: Oral cancer is a major non communicable disease which is considered as one of the major public health problems in India. It can easily be prevented through early detection and stopping the associated risk factors like smokeless tobacco. The objective of the study was to assess the prevalence of risk factors for mouth ulcer and oral cancer among migrants of Udaipur city and comparing them to its native population.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted to know the prevalence of smokeless tobacco and other associated risk factors and recommend the preventive strategies based on study findings which consisted of 384 migrants and 384 native population of Udaipur, Rajasthan during May 2016 to April 2017.Results: Majority of migrants 36.46% and native 34.11% were in age group of 28-37 years. Out of 384, 89 (23.18%) and 117 (30.47%) migrants and native were having habit of smokeless tobacco chewing respectively (statistically significant p<0.05). The prevalence of smoking among migrants and native were 34.38% and 24.48% respectively (statistically significant p<0.05). A major risk factor of mouth ulcer was same smokeless tobacco chewing in both migrants (57.14%) and in native (66.66%). Migrants with the habit of smokeless chewing were unable to open mouth was recorded (69.04%) whereas native population was recorded (36.66%) (statistically significant p<0.05)..Conclusions: Smokeless tobacco chewing habit in both migrants and native population is a significant risk factor for mouth ulcer and oral cancer.
The association between pulmonary function test and anthropometric measurements using bioelectric impidence analysis in adolescents
Authors: Surve Rahul R. , Dase Rajesh K.
Published: August 2018

Background: The development of pulmonary functions and growth of physical parameters i.e. height and weight are coexistent. These physical parameters are further affected by nutrition and physical activities of children. The aim of present study was to find correlation between pulmonary function test and anthropometric measurements using bioelectric impedance analysis in adolescence.Methods: A cross sectional observational study conducted at Sanskar Madhmik Vidhylay, Mayur Park, Aurangabad during July to December 2017. Adolescent between the age group between 11 to 18 years were enrolled in present study.Results: Out of 138 total students 80 (57.97%) were male and 58 (42.02%) female. As per person correlation test analysis weight, height, Hip circumference and body surface area are found to be positively correlated to FVC, FEV1, PEFR and FEF25-75. As per person correlation test analysis total body fat, trunk subcutaneous fat and whole body subcutaneous fat are found to be negatively correlated to FVC, FEV1, PEFR and FEF25-75. Muscle mass and basal metabolic rate are found to be positively correlated to FVC, FEV1, PEFR and FEF25-75.Conclusions: Total body fat, trunk subcutaneous fat and whole body subcutaneous fat are negatively correlated with pulmonary function test. The body fat percentage had a stronger correlation than BMI, thus suggesting that body fat percentage was a major determinant of the reduced pulmonary functions in both sexes.
Forecasting road traffic accident deaths in India using seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average model
Authors: M. Manikandan , R. Vishnu Prasad , Mishra Amit Kumar , Konduru Rajesh Kumar , A. Newtonraj
Published: August 2018

Background: As per World Health Organization (WHO) report 1.24 million people die each year as a result of road traffic accidents (RTA) globally. A vast majority of 20-50 million people suffer from non-fatal injuries, many of them ultimately end in disability. Forecasting RTA deaths could help in planning the intervention at the right time in an effective way.Methods: An attempt was made to forecast the RTA deaths in India with seasonal auto regressive integrated moving average (SARIMA) model. ARIMA model is one of the common methods which are used for forecasting variables as the method is very easy and requires only long time series data. The method of selection of appropriate ARIMA model has been explained in detail. Month wise RTA deaths for previous years data was collected from Govt. of India website. Data for 12 years (2001 to 2012) was extracted and appropriate ARIMA model was selected. Using the validated ARIMA model the RTA deaths are forecasted for 8 years (2013-2020).Results: The appropriate SARIMA (1,0,0) (2,1,0) 12 model was selected based on minimal AIC and BIC values. The forecasted RTA deaths show increasing trend overtime.Conclusions: There is an increasing trend in the forecasted numbers of road traffic accidental deaths and it also shows seasonality of RTA deaths with more number of accidents during the month of April and May in every years. It is recommended that the policy makers and transport authority should pay more attention to road traffic accidents and plan some effective intervention to reduce the burden of RTA deaths.
Menstrual hygiene: knowledge and practice among adolescent girls in orphanage
Authors: Kumari Savita , Sheoran Poonam , Siddiqui Adiba
Published: August 2018

Background: In India menstruation is generally considered as unclean. Orphanage girls are vulnerable group in our society. The unfailing support and a constant check of orphan girls during menstruation are usually absent. The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and practices regarding menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls residing in selected orphanages of Haryana.Methods: A descriptive survey was conducted on 150 adolescent girls residing in selected orphanages of Haryana. Purposive sampling technique was used to select the adolescent girls for study. The data was obtained by structured knowledge questionnaire and structured practice questionnaire.Results: SPSS version 20 was used for statistical analysis. The result of the study indicated that more than half of adolescent girls (62.7%) were in age group of 12-15 year. Half  (50.7%) of adolescent girls had age of menarche at 12 year. Only 16% adolescent girls had good knowledge regarding menstrual hygiene. 95.3% were using sanitary pad during menstruation.Conclusions: The present study concluded that adolescent girls had poor knowledge of menstruation and menstrual hygiene.
Study of acute diarrhoea among preschool children from below poverty line families of Lucknow district, North India
Authors: Mohammad Khalid , Gupta Pratibha
Published: August 2018

Background: Acute diarrheal illness remains one of the major causes of childhood morbidity and mortality especially among children under five in developing countries. Many of the risk factors for contracting diarrheal illnesses are associated with poverty, such as lacking access to safe water and sanitation, poor hygiene practices and unsafe human waste disposal. Objective of the study was to know the prevalence of acute diarrhoea and find out certain associated risk factors among preschool children from below poverty line family of Lucknow district.Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted using multistage sampling in rural and urban areas of Lucknow district from August, 2012 to July, 2013. Total 352 children aged 12-47 months from Below Poverty Line families were enrolled in this study. Mothers were interviewed after taking informed consent on pretested predesigned questionnaire.Results: A total of 352 children were participated in this study, of which 75 were suffering from acute diarrhea, thus giving a two-week prevalence of 21.3%. The main risk factors for acute diarrheal illness were found to be Unimproved/no toilet facility, unsafe disposal of children stool, having piped water supply, storage of drinking water at household level, not received complimentary feeding within specified period and no vitamin A supplementation.Conclusions: Approximately one-fifth of the children included in the study reported diarrheal disease. Building toilets and providing safe drinking water at the household level, interventions through effective health education of the community regarding appropriate complimentary feeding and immunization practices may reduce the burden of diarrhoea among these children.
Prevalence of hypertension and co-morbidities among elderly women in rural area: a cross sectional study
Authors: M. N. Soumyashree , Viveki R. G.
Published: August 2018

Background: NCDs have been the leading causes of death among women globally for the past three decades and are now responsible for two in every three deaths among women each year. India endorsed the Sustainable Development Goal for health to set a target to decrease premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by one-third by 2030. Aims of the study were to estimate the prevalence of hypertension among the elderly women from rural area and to know the associated co-morbidities among the elderly women from rural area.Methods: A community based cross sectional study was conducted among elderly women >60 yrs. Data was collected by using pre tested structured questionnaire, which contained basic information like name, age, education & socioeconomic status, occupation, marital status, known case of hypertension, family history, any other co- morbidities.Results: 65.2% of the participants had normal blood pressure, 34.7% were hypertensive. 38% of study subjects living in joint family were hypertensive, majority (53.8% and 85.6%) of them who were obese and had a history of tobacco intake were hypertensive. The association between hypertension and these variables was found to be statistically significant.Conclusions: 15.4% of the study participants were newly detected hypertensives. This indicates a need for awareness to be created among the elderly women regarding hypertension risk factors, to sensitize them for regular medical check-ups to ensure prevention and early detection of hypertension.
Patterns of physical activity among government and private school children in coastal Karnataka
Authors: Mahaur Gunjan , Badiger Sanjeev
Published: August 2018

Background: Higher level of physical activity is associated with low mortality rates for both adults and children. Those who are moderately active on a regular basis have lower mortality rates than those who are least active.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted in private and government schools of Mangalore city from October 2015 to July 2017, study population was between 13 and 15 years adolescents. Sample size of 1000 was been obtained by using Proportional probability sampling. A pretested validated questionnaire was used for data collection. Data entry was done in Microsoft Excel and data analysis was done in SPSS version 22.Results: Out of 1000 students, 130 was from government school and 870 from private schools. Physical activity level among government school children was found to be more than private school children (p<0.005). Government school children had more number of underweight students (70%) compared to private school children (37.5%).Conclusions: This study showed that more research is necessary to evaluate intermediate factors and to determine which interventions are likely to be most effective to prevent childhood and adolescent obesity.
Evaluation of mass drug administration against lymphatic filariasis in Bidar district, Karnataka, India
Authors: Bhovi Ravindranath A. , Mane Vijaykumar P.
Published: August 2018

Background: Lymphatic filariasis is a major public health problem in India not only because it causes considerable suffering, deformity and disability but also due to social stigma and economic loss associated with it. The Government of India in 2004 began a nationwide mass drug administration (MDA) campaign in all the known endemic districts with the aim of eliminating it as a public health problem. However, even after a decade, uncertainty prevails about the coverage and compliance to MDA. Objectives of the study were to estimate coverage and compliance to mass drug administration (MDA) in Bidar district and to identify the various reasons for non-compliance to MDA.Methods: A cross sectional evaluation survey was conducted in the month of September 2016 in Bidar district using multi-stage cluster sampling technique. A total of 744 subjects were interviewed and information was collected in a predesigned questionnaire after taking an informed consent. Data thus obtained were entered and analyzed using Epi info software version 3.5.4.Results: The coverage, compliance and effective compliance to MDA in Bidar district were 82.1%, 72.3% and 59.4% respectively. The most common reasons for non-compliance to MDA were fear of side reactions followed by suffering from other chronic diseases and having no faith in tablets. The most common side reactions associated with drug intake were vomiting and fever.Conclusions: The present study demonstrates poor compliance to MDA in Bidar district despite good coverage, indicating an urgent need to revitalize the programme implementation.
Use of unified theory of acceptance and use of technology model for telemedicine services: an exploratory study
Authors: Irfanahemad A. S. , Nandakumar B. S. , K. Radhika
Published: August 2018

Background: While quality health-care is considered a fundamental human right for all citizens; the challenge remains in making it accessible to all. Information systems have been identified as possible solution that can be used to alleviate disparity between rural and urban healthcare services and bridge the digital divide. Literature has suggested that one of the barriers for successful implementation of health information system is the user acceptance by health care personnel. The main objective of this study is to assess perceived usefulness, relative advantages of telemedicine technology among health personnel of selected district.Methods: This is a cross-sectional study, using Semi-structured questionnaire. Data was collected from research participants from PHCs of Bijapur district, during July to November 2017.Results: In general the health-care personnel were aware of the benefit of tele-medicine to improve effectiveness and efficiency of the health care system. The barriers to the effective implementation of tele-medicine include lack of knowledge and lack of awareness regarding use and usage of the tele-medicine system.Conclusions: Health care personnel do acknowledge that tele-medicine can help to increase the effectiveness of the healthcare system. In general the acceptance of tele-medicine among healthcare personnel is positive. However in order to integrate it into standard work practices, specific training and capacity building for tele services is essential among health care personnel.
Prevalence of undernutrition and its determinants among preschool children in a rural community of Shimoga, Karnataka
Authors: Mane Vijaykumar P. , Sagar M. V. , R. Revathy
Published: August 2018

Background: Undernutrition is a major health and nutrition problem in India especially among preschool children. It is an important cause of childhood mortality and morbidity and also leads to permanent impairment of physical and mental growth of those who survive. The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of undernutrition among preschool children in the study setting and to determine various factors associated with undernutrition of the child.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 400 preschool children in the field practice area of PHC Aaynoor, Shivamogga, Karnataka. Cluster sampling technique was used for sample selection. Data was collected by interviewing the parent /guardian using a pretested and semistructured questionnaire and anthropometric measurements were done as per standard techniques. Statistical analysis was done using WHO Epi-info software version 3.5.4.Results: The prevalence of underweight, stunting and wasting was observed in 38%, 43% and 15.8% of children respectively. The study found significant association between the prevalence of undernutrition and gender, birth weight, birth order, number of siblings, caste, paternal literacy and availability of toilet in the house of the child.Conclusions: The present study revealed that the problem of undernutrition is critical in the study area and identifies multiple risk factors for its causation, thereby signifying a well - coordinated multi sectorial approach to curb the same.
Case report of atypical carcinoid tumors of the larynx
Authors: Alkhaliah Fatimah S. , Almajed Ibrahim A. , Alkhalifah Anwar S. , Alkhalifah Abdulltaif S. , AlYahya Khalid A. , Almutairy Alya
Published: August 2018

Neuroendocrine tumors (NET) of the larynx are considered one of the rare disease; they represent only 1% of the laryngeal tumors. These tumors are very aggressive with a high rate of metastases. Diagnosis is done by computed tomography and confirmed by histopathological examination. Neuroendocrine tumors can be classified into four types based on histopathology: typical carcinoid tumors, atypical carcinoid tumors, small cell neuroendocrine tumors and paragangliomas. Atypical carcinoid tumor of the larynx is considered rare in occurrence. We report a rare laryngeal neuroendocrine tumor case.
Prevalence and incidence of asthma among underprivileged children in polluted urban areas of India: a childhood asthma intervention and referrals study
Authors: Fofani Nikunj , Markandeywar Neeraj , Desai Shripad
Published: August 2018

Background: Childhood asthma has emerged as an important public health issue which is often under diagnosed or undertreated, especially in underprivileged children from slum communities in India. This study aims to increase awareness and facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of childhood asthma.Methods: Americares India Foundation organized 167 asthma screening camps in the city of Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Cochin, Lucknow and Nagpur in India from August to November 2016. A total of 10,017 underprivileged children aged ≤16 years were screened for asthma; symptomatic treatment was provided else the children were referred for further investigations and treatment. The camps were organized in collaboration with St. Philomena’s Hospital, Bengaluru; Lourdes Hospital, Cochin; Indian Institute of Public Health, Bhubaneswar; Lata Mangeshkar Hospital, Nagpur; and St. Mary’s Polyclinic, Lucknow.Results: New and known cases of asthma were diagnosed in 199 and 166 children, respectively. The prevalence of asthma was found to be 2.7% in Bhubaneswar, 3.7% in Bengaluru and Lucknow, 3.9% in Cochin and 4.3% in Nagpur.Conclusions: Due to increase in the prevalence of childhood asthma in India, it is important to create awareness and communicate with families/caregivers about asthma and related disorders.
Variables affecting post-inpatient admission outcomes
Authors: Nguyen Mathew , Pfeifer Blake , Sanfilippo Denise
Published: August 2018

In the Unites States, mental illness affects one in five people. This high prevalence rate leads to a significant number of these individuals requiring inpatient psychiatric hospitalizations. Chronic and persistent mental illnesses lead to readmissions and extended average lengths of stays and fuel escalating health care costs. Estimates show a 12.2% increase in cost between 2005 and 2014. Analyzing data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Heslin and Weiss (2015) determined that approximately 20% of all Medicare patients are readmitted within 30 days of discharge (taking into account all illnesses), with costs totaling 15 – 20 billion dollars annually.
Cancer care improvement through positive patient identification technologies
Authors: Davoodi Somayeh , Kariminejad Reza , Mohammadzadeh Zeinab
Published: August 2018

One of the information technology applications in the cancer care process is positive identification of patients; several studies show that misidentification in cancer care may cause many problems such as lots of medical errors due to wrong person. Improvement in cancer care processes for positive patient identification through information technology is necessary to reduce mortality and morbidity rate; because errors due to misidentification decrease patient safety. For this reason patient identity information should be clear and explicit. Applying new technologies and standardized methods of patient positive identification can prevent these errors; and enhance the quality of cancer care process. In this literature review, search was conducted with keywords including cancer, positive identification, patient misidentification, information technology, Wireless networks, Barcodes, RFID, and Biometric in Science Direct, Google Scholar, and PubMed databases since 1989 until now. This study explains significant technologies such as Wireless networks, Barcodes, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) and Biometric tools for positive patient identification in cancer care.
The relationship between serum lactate and VO2/VCO2 in patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting in Ardabil city hospital, 2017
Authors: M. Hasanpour , V. Norouzi , P. Orouji
Published: August 2018

Background: VO2/VCO2 ratio and blood lactate are different indices of adequacy of oxygen delivery to oxygen needs. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between serum lactate and VO2/VCO2 in patients undergoing CABG in Ardabil city.

Methods: This descriptive-analytical study was performed on 30 patients who underwent CABG at Ardabil city hospital during 2017. Demographic data of patients including age and sex were collected. Standard monitoring included electrocardiogram, invasive arterial pressure, pulse oximetry, end tidal carbon dioxide, temperature and urine output was done. The CAB was carried out through a CPB pump at the time of grafting. Blood lactate and VO2/VCO2 were measured in 3 groups of patients based on number of grafts, EF and serum Creatinine. Collected data analyzed by statistical methods in SPSS version 19.  

Results: Most of patients were male (86.7%). The mean age of patients was 58.1 years. The blood lactate and VO2/VCO2 values increased after surgery. There was no statistically significant difference in two groups based on number of grafts and serum Cr but it was statistically significant based on E/F. There was a significant correlation between Blood lactate and VO2/VCO2 ratio in patients.

Conclusions: The results showed that blood lactate as an indicator for patients status during CABG surgery can be replaced with VO2/VCO2.
The potential protective role of coenzyme q10 on the cyclophosphamide-induced lung toxicity in adult male albino rats: a histological and ultrastructural study
Authors: Olama Nouran K. , Taha Medhat , Rady Hagar Y.
Published: August 2018

Background: Cyclophosphamide is anticancer and immunosuppressant agent used to treat malignant and autoimmune diseases. Its long-term use causes side effects, as infertility and pulmonary toxicity. Coenzyme Q10; the only synthesized antioxidant in human body, acts as powerful antioxidant, scavenging free radicals, and inhibiting lipid peroxidation. Aim of present study was to examine effect of coenzyme Q10 on blood biochemical profiles, histopathological changes in lungs of adult rats exposed to cyclophosphamide-induced toxicity.

Methods: 36 adult male albino rats divided into four groups; control and three experimental each having 9 rats. First experimental group received coenzyme Q10, second received cyclophosphamide while third group received coenzyme Q10 along with cyclophosphamide. Experiment lasted for 7 days. On 8th day, animals were sacrificed by decapitation. Lung tissue samples were collected for histopathological examination. SOD (superoxide dismutase) and MDA (malondialdehyde) levels were determined and used for statistical analysis.  

Results: In coenzyme Q10 treated group, H&E stained sections revealed normal respiratory alveoli. Ultrathin sections revealed normal alveolar septa, pneumocyte and blood capillaries contain erythrocytes. In cyclophosphamide treated group, H&E stained sections revealed peribronchial and interstitial fibrosis. Ultrathin sections revealed alveoli having apparent free lumen with extravasated erythrocytes. Alveolar septa revealed collagen fibrils deposits, and proliferated fibroblasts. In combined coenzyme Q10 and cyclophosphamide treated group, H&E stained sections revealed marked decrease of inter-alveolar tissue thickening. Ultrathin sections revealed destructed alveolar septa with dissociated remnants of collagen fibrils. Blood capillaries appeared wide, containing monocytes and erythrocytes.

Conclusions: Administration of coenzyme Q10 with cyclophosphamide is advised to alleviate cyclophosphamide-induced lung toxicity.
Age and sex analysis of the modic changes in the vertebrae
Authors: Acar Musa , Alkan Şenay Burçin , Altunkeser Ayşegül , Baran Nahide , Tunç Kevser , Yılmaz Habibe , İlkaya Cansel
Published: August 2018

Background: Modic changes are common bone marrow and end plate changes that appear on magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine. These changes are clinically associated with back pain and are generally classified into three types. In this study, we aimed to determine the frequency of patients with end plate deformities according to age and sex in their vertebrae.

Methods: The study was performed on 100 patients (50 females, 50 males) who were admitted to Konya Education Research Hospital and thoracic region bone structures screened with MRI.  

Results: Modic changes were observed most at L4-L5 levels.

Conclusions: We believe that the results obtained in our study will be beneficial in the surgeon, radiology and anatomy training.
Cysticercosis breast: a cytological diagnosis
Authors: Rajpoot Jyoti , Arora Sheetal , Gupta Nikita , Arora Rashmi
Published: August 2018

Parasitic lesions of breast are rare, usually seen in endemic areas. Clinically such cases are frequently misdiagnosed as benign or sometimes malignant tumors of breast. Cysticercosis is caused by larval form of Taenia solium, acquired via fecal oral route. Radiology may be suggestive of cysticerocosis. In our case, diagnosis was confirmed with fine needle aspiration cytology.
Current research trends comparing percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy and conventional surgical tracheostomy: a systematic review
Authors: Walikar Basavaraj , Pandit Ankush , Rashinkar S. M. , Watwe M. V. , K. Yashaswini
Published: August 2018

A review of research trends, followed in tracheostomy studies, are discussed by several otolaryngologists as a comprehensive review on tracheostomy is extremely difficult to compile mainly due to its voluminous nature and the difficulty in obtaining the scattered information, as isolated pieces of research, an attempt has been made to review some of the recent research publications to depict current research trends in the area of tracheostomy. An overview of the literature shows that percutaneous dilatational tracheostomy (PDT) is as safe and effective as surgical tracheostomy (ST). Although early and late post-operative complication rates are not statistically significant in the PDT group, further investigations of long-term outcome following PDT are therefore necessary. Generally, PDT has fewer acute complications than ST, although this may vary by the specific PDT technique. Patient factors also influence complications. In view of the benefit verses risks in tracheostomy, PDT may be considered the procedure of choice for performing elective tracheostomy in critically ill adult patients.

 
Isolated sphenoid inflammatory diseases
Authors: Alali Manal S. , Al Khatib Abdulrahman , Alazzeh Ghaleb , AlMomen Ali H.
Published: August 2018

Background: Isolated sphenoid inflammatory disease is a rare clinical condition among patients with paranasal sinus disease, reported incidence ranged between 1-3%. The most common symptoms of isolated sphenoid inflammatory lesions are headache, ophtalmological and nasal symptoms. Delayed diagnosis may occur due to its nonspecific symptoms. The disease requires appropriate and good imaging technique for diagnosis. The objective of the study was to discuss different pathologies of isolated sphenoid inflammatory lesions.

Methods: From 2008 to 2017, we performed surgery on 27 patients with isolated sphenoid inflammatory diseases. The presenting signs and symptoms, radiological studies, operative findings, and clinical outcomes were retrospectively reviewed and analyzed.  

Results: 27 cases were identified at tertiary hospital of King Fahad Specialist Hospital Dammam. 12 bacterial sphenoid sinusitis, 4 allergic fungal sinusitis, 4 fungal balls, 2 invasive fungal sinusitis, 3 pediatric (2 sphenoid sinusitis and 1 allergic fungal sinusitis), 1 mucocele and 1 mycopyocele were noticed.

Conclusions: Isolated sphenoid inflammatory disease is rare, with comprehensive history taking, complete physical examination, appropriate endoscopic examination and advanced imaging studies will give appropriate clinical diagnosis. Histopathologyand microbiology is important for definite diagnosis.
Effects of occupational noise on quality of life
Authors: Otoghile Bright , Onakoya Paul A. , Otoghile Confidence C.
Published: August 2018

Background: Noise is an unwanted sound which could possibly adversely impact an individual’s quality of life. The issue of occupational noise is of public health importance. Excessive noise can potentially affect the quality of life. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effects of occupational noise exposure on quality of life.

Methods: This was a prospective community based study involving sawmill workers in Ile-Ife. Library and administrative staff of Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife were used as control. The quality of life of all participants was evaluated with World Health Organization Quality of Life bref questionnaire and a designed noise exposure evaluation questionnaire.

Results: A total of 420 subjects were recruited for the study and similar number for control. There was a negative correlation between occupational noise and the physical and psychological domains of quality of life.

Conclusions: Occupational noise level is associated with a reduction in the overall, physical and psychological components of the quality of life.
Hearing loss in tympanic membrane perforations: an analytic study
Authors: Herkal Kartik , Ramasamy Karthikeyan , Saxena Sunil Kumar , Ganesan Sivaraman , Alexander Arun
Published: August 2018

Background: Tympanic membrane perforations are common cause of hearing loss. There are very few systematic studies that have evaluated the size and location of a perforation to the degree of hearing loss, this study correlates the size and location of tympanic membrane perforation to the pattern of hearing loss.

Methods: The study design was based on cross sectional study. Ninety-six ears of dry tympanic membrane perforation of CSOM mucosal type were selected. Photographs of the tympanic membrane perforations were taken and size measured using the “Image J” software. The area of perforation was compared to hearing loss measured by pure tone audiometry.  

Results: Ninety-six patients, aged 15-60 years with perforated eardrums were studied. Size of tympanic membrane perforation showed moderate level of correlation with hearing loss (Pearson r value=0.463). The various locations of perforations were: posterior (23 ears with Mean hearing loss 28.6±7.7 dB), anterior (31 ears with Mean hearing loss 26.5±7.8dB), subtotal (42 ears with Mean hearing loss 34.2±8.2 dB).

Conclusions: The hearing loss is frequency dependent, with maximum hearing loss at lower frequencies. Irrespective of size of perforation the hearing loss was the least for frequency of 2000Hz. Magnitude of hearing loss increases with increase in size of tympanic membrane perforation. Perforation posterior to handle of malleus resulted in more hearing loss than perforations involving anterior to the handle of malleus.