bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perception and utilization of family medicine services among Abu Dhabi Island’s community
Authors: Alraeesi Fatima H. , Alblooshi Reyoof M. , Al Busumait Reem S. , Al Ali Reem A. , Al Fahim Maha M. , Darwish Ebtihal A.
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Following the World Health Organization statement ‘Health for all’, family medicine is a specialty that provides continuing, comprehensive healthcare to individuals and their families. Despite that, it is still not yet utilized to its full potential by the developing Middle-Eastern community. The aim of our study is to assess the perception and utilization of family medicine services among Abu Dhabi Island’s community.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted targeting Abu Dhabi Island’s community. A representative sample with 95% confidence level and 5% margin of error was calculated taking into consideration the latest report by the Abu Dhabi Statistics Center. A total of 395 adult participants were included in the study, who were asked to fill in an electronic-based validated questionnaire. SPSS software was then used for data analysis.

Results:

Majority of participants were UAE nationals (81%) and married (71.1%), with almost equal male (50.4%) to female ratio (49.6%). Participants had positive experiences in primary healthcare (PHC) overall, regardless of their gender, nationality and marital status. Positive experience percentages dropped with higher age and educational level (P-value <0.05). A better understanding was noticed among ≥50 years of age with the rightful destination for emergency symptoms (P-value <0.05). Participants overall agreed on PHC being the preferred allocation for treatment of fever, body aches and sore throat.

Conclusion:

Primary healthcare centres were chosen as preferred destinations for emergency and non-emergency cases, as the vast majority had positive experiences when attending them.
Respectful maternity care during childbirth: Experiences and observation among mothers in a tertiary-care institute in Manipur
Authors: Devi Samurailatpam P. , Meetei Sinam T. , Suriya Phanjoubam , Rajkumari Bishwalata , Wahengbam Regina , Selvaraju Elakkiya , Keisam Avinash
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Respectful maternity care (RMC) refers to the humane and dignified treatment of a childbearing woman throughout her pregnancy, childbirth and immediate postpartum period. Disrespect and abuse of women during labour, childbirth and immediate postpartum period in health facilities is one of the reasons which deter them from further utilizing maternal healthcare services. The present study was thus undertaken to determine to what extent RMC practices are being followed in a health facility in Manipur.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted from May 2022 to August 2022 in a Health facility among women coming for institutional delivery along with direct observations of the labour room. The study tool comprises a semistructured questionnaire related to respectful maternity care which was adapted from the Person-Centered Maternity Care Scale, a validated instrument. The direct observation method was carried out using a checklist adapted from a standardized tool developed by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). Descriptive statistics were generated and approval of the study was obtained from the Institutional Ethics Committee.

Results:

A total of 336 (99.1%) women reported at least one form of disrespect or abuse during childbirth. Maximum abuse (91.4%) was reported in the facility and environment domain. Direct observation done on 22 deliveries in the labour room found that 72.7% of the women experienced at least one form of disrespect and abuse. Two (9.1%) women were observed to face physical force or abusive behaviour.

Conclusion:

Almost all the women reported at least one form of disrespect or abuse during childbirth. There is a need to improve the health facilities and women need to be treated with dignity and respect as it is being violated according to the findings in many studies as with ours.
The elderly, COVID-19, and violence: A qualitative content analysis
Authors: Nozarpour Jasem , Fallahi-Khoshknab Masoud , Arsalani Narges , Norouzi Kian , Ahmadi Fazlollah
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Violence against the elderly is one of the types of domestic violence that is one of the major social health problems in modern societies and whose incidence has increased sharply in the last two decades, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The present study aims at explaining the concept of violence against the elderly during lockdown and the epidemic of COVID-19.

Methods:

This qualitative study was conducted with a conventional content analysis approach in Izeh (a city in Khuzestan Province) in 2021. The data were collected through conducting unstructured interviews as well as taking field notes with as many as 13 elderly family members. After obtaining informed consent, the collected data were written word for word, and the content analysis method was applied to name the data, create analytical codes, and determine subgroups and categories. The data were analyzed using MAXQDA-10.

Results:

The results of this study indicated that the elderly who have been subjected to violence have many ambiguities in the process of identifying and dealing with the violence inflicted on them; the fear of being rejected by family members and their escalated violence make the violence remain hidden.

Conclusion:

Given their failure to seek help and the lack of support provided by the related organizations, the elderly did not report violence inflicted on them, which in turn led to the spread of violence against them. Thus, it is recommended that nurses and health policymakers provide the required planning to address the problems of violence against the elderly during the COVID-19 pandemic and post-pandemic era.
“The burden of lifestyle diseases and their impact on health service in India”—A narrative review
Authors: Sahu Sweta , Kumar Sachin , Nagtode Nikhilesh R. , Sahu Mansi
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Basically, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are lifestyle diseases. They cannot be transmitted from one person to another person. Instead, our lifestyle, genetics, and environment influence our susceptibility to various diseases. In India, non-communicable illnesses and injuries are responsible for 52% of fatalities. The burden of non-communicable diseases and the resultant mortality are predicted to increase if the government does not take significant steps to prevent and control NCDs and related risk factors. According to the currently available research, the top causes of illness, disability, and death in India include hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, lung disease, chronic renal disease, trauma, stroke, and chronic obstructive and mental disorders. Since 1980s, the Government of India has assisted the states through several vertical programs to prevent and control NCDs. However, efforts to prevent and control NCDs significantly increased under the 11th plan. New programs were launched on a small scale in a select few districts. The financial burden of NCDs has mostly stayed the same, though based on past experiences, reducing exposure to risk factors requires focusing on health promotion and preventative actions. The public healthcare system must have the tools and talents needed for effective management, early diagnosis, and screening. Effective monitoring systems, integrated management, and public awareness campaigns are required to successfully implement the program and make services available to all national citizens.
Comparison of flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery in normotensive versus preeclamptic pregnant females
Authors: Verma Manju L. , Mueed Namra , Singh Uma , Sachan Rekha , Sankhwar Pushp L.
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Flow-mediated dilation (FMD) of the brachial artery is an ultrasonography test that assesses the endothelial response to reactive hyperemia. The aim of this study was to assess the changes in FMD in preeclamptic pregnant patients and compare them with normotensive pregnant females.

Methods:

An analytical cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) after obtaining ethical approval. A total of 110 normotensive and 100 preeclamptic patients were recruited for the study. Using a Toshiba Ultrasound Machine with a 7–12 MHz probe, the baseline diameter of the brachial artery D1 was measured. Afterward, the cuff of the sphygmomanometer was placed distally on the forearm and it was inflated up to ≥250 mm of Hg pressure and later slowly deflated. At 90th seconds after cuff deflation, the mean of three measurements of vessel caliber (D2) was obtained. The FMD% was obtained by the following equation: FMD (%) = [(D2 − D1)/D1] ×100, where D1 = basal diameter and D2 = post-occlusion diameter. All patients were followed till delivery for maternofetal outcome.

Results:

FMD% was significantly lower in the preeclampsia group, and it went on decreasing with increasing severity of preeclampsia. At the cutoff of 9.4 for FMD%, its sensitivity for the prediction of preeclampsia was 65.3%, specificity was 89.3%, positive predictive value (PPV) was 94%, and negative predictive value (NPV) was 50%.

Discussion:

FMD is a noninvasive test, and it gets decreased before clinical signs of preeclampsia, so it can be used as a predictor of preeclampsia.
Management of nonhealing venous leg ulcer: A case report
Authors: Mandal Sisir Kumar , Yadav Vijay Singh , Sharma Meenakshi , Agarwal Vivek , Yadav Ragini , Sahu Girwar
Published: May 2024

Venous ulcer is the recurrent form of ulceration that occurs due to chronic venous insufficiency. Its annual prevalence rate is 1.69%. If not properly treated, it may lead to gangrene, cellulitis, and even amputation of the affected part. The condition can be correlated to Sirah granthi janya dushta vrana in classics. In the conventional system, conservative and surgical treatment is practiced, which has only a supportive role. Ayurveda treatment modalities have vast potential in various challenging skin conditions and ulcers. The present case report is the description of a venous ulcer of a 42-year-old male, which was diagnosed through a Doppler study of the venous system of lower limbs. Here, a holistic Ayurvedic approach, including Shamana chikitsa (pacifying therapy) and Jaloka (leech therapy), was employed for 3 months. Complete healing of the wound without any adverse effects was found.
The role of Ayurveda in management of nicotine addiction-Critical review
Authors: Das Kishore , Kumawat Dinesh Kumar , Sharma Anita , Pandey Narayan
Published: May 2024

Background:

Nicotine is one of the most widely abused drugs throughout the world. It is the main cause of most of the major noncommunicable diseases. As per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey of India, about 29% of the population is addicted to tobacco and various nicotine-containing products. As per estimates by WHO, the use of tobacco in various forms is responsible for 13.3% of all deaths in India.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of the study is to highlight the different Ayurvedic principles that can be used to prevent and manage nicotine addiction and withdrawal.

Materials and Methods:

The required information regarding this article has been taken from various clinical studies published by different authors in a variety of indexed and nonindexed journals, along with it personal clinical experience has been taken into consideration. Ayurvedic Samhitas, along with modern medical books, has also been taken into consideration. Ayurveda, which is a hub of many herbal preparation and procedures, have also suggested various ways to prevent and manage the symptoms arising due to addictive substances. The procedures include the use of medicated herbs, Padanshik Karma (gradual adopting and leaving) and Panchkarma procedures. Yoga and meditations, along with awareness and counseling, have also shown significant results in the prevention and treatment of nicotine addiction.

Result and Conclusion:

Thus, Ayurvedic principles of treatment like Sadvritta (good regimen or moral code of conduct), Achara Rasayana (lifestyle and behavioral modification), Satvyajaya Chikitsa (Ayurvedic psychotherapy), Padanshik Karma, Yoga and Meditation, awareness and counseling can be successfully used for management of nicotine addiction.
Impact of Nursing Interventions on Patient Satisfaction in a Covid Intensive Care Unit During Peak of Pandemic in Resource-Limited Setting
Authors: Simalti Ashish Kumar , Vijayan Vedika A. , Pramanik Suman , Mathew C. Jancy , Gupta Neha , Malvika K
Published: May 2024

Background:

Caregivers not being allowed into the COVID wards prevented them from being involved in caring for their relatives in respect of day-to-day activities such as eating, drinking, and walking to the washroom. The aim of this study was to observe the challenges faced by patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) with COVID-19 pneumonia. We also observed the impact of two simple nursing interventions related to feeding and defecation and noted their impact in terms of patient's satisfaction.

Materials and Methods:

A semi-structured feedback questionnaire was prepared to cover common challenges faced by patients after interview with 10 patients admitted at a COVID ICU. Two simple nursing interventions were performed related to feeding and defecation.

Results:

Breathlessness was the most common issue as all the patients admitted were hypoxic. Inability to perform routine day-to-day functions such as feeding, drinking, sitting, and walking were other common issues. Emotional issues like anxiety, fear homesickness, and loneliness were also very high. Most (69.44%) patients were satisfied with a blended diet which was easy to take for patients with breathlessness. Most (77.28%) of patients were satisfied with intervention of helping them sit on a commode chair while on oxygen.

Conclusion:

During this pandemic, where all our efforts seemed insufficient in face of this unprecedented crisis yet these small seemingly insignificant steps helped both the patients as well as nurses in making the atmosphere more positive.
Changes in the Psychophysiological and Cognitive Parameters of the Sailors Wearing Cooling Vest While Working in High Ambient Temperature Condition of the Engine Room Onboard a Naval Ship
Authors: Jaipurkar Raksha , Mohapatra SS , Banerjee Chitra , Bobde Saurabh , Karade Santosh
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cooling vests are supportive garments used to overcome heat stress among individuals working in hot and humid environment. These vests were used extensively by fire-fighters and coal mine workers in past. In this study we have evaluated the effectiveness of cooling vest on psychophysiological and cognitive parameters of the sailors working in the engine room of a Naval ship.

Aims and Objectives:

Aim of out is to evaluate effectiveness of cooling vests in alleviating heat strain and maintain physiological parameters and behavioural alertness of sailors working in the hot and humid climate of engine room.

Materials and Methods:

The Physiological Strain Index (PSI), the level of Anxiety and the Psychomotor Vigilance testing was determined from 50 healthy male sailors while on 4 hrs of watch in the engine room in two different occasions i.e. once wearing the cooling vest and once more without wearing it. Subjective perception of acceptability of cooling vest was assessed by a self-made questionnaire.

Results:

The mean body temperature (Aural), pulse rate, respiration rate along with the Physiological Strain Index (PSI) was significantly lower both during mid watch as well as at the end watch among the engine room sailors while performing the watch wearing the cooling vest (Watch-2) in comparison to the watch without wearing it (Watch-1). The mean change in reaction time in the Psychomotor Vigilance Testing (PVT) was lesser while performing the watch with cooling vest (Watch-2) than the watch without it (Watch-1). Similarly, a higher proportion of participants had shown to have no increase in their anxiety level (Hamilton Anxiety Score) at the end of the watch when performing it with cooling vest. Also, the positive acceptance for the cooling vest was also observed among larger portion of participants.

Conclusion:

The study indicated lesser heat strain, lesser deterioration of Psychomotor vigilance function, lesser proportion of participants showing anxiety among the sailors wearing cooling vest while working in the hot and humid condition of engine room of a naval ship. A positive acceptance for cooling vest was also observed among higher number of these participants.
Role of D-dimer Levels at Admission in Predicting Outcome in Coronavirus Disease-2019 Patients
Authors: Singh Jasdeep , Bhatia Jasvinder Kuar , Ghosh VSM Sitaram , Singh Brajesh
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Worldwide pandemic spread of the novel coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) has led to people being afflicted by COVID-19 with an ever-rising mortality leading to 1,079,029 deaths as on October 13, 2020 (covid19.who.int). Due to the rising incidence and mortality associated with COVID 19 in India with 7,175,880 confirmed cases and 109,856 deaths reported till October 13, 2020, it was imperative to have an early and effective predictor of clinical outcome to augment the present management of COVID 19 patients.

Objective:

The aim of the present retrospective study was to evaluate whether elevated D-dimer levels at admission in a reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) confirmed COVID-19 patients could predict the severity of disease and outcome.

Methods:

D-dimer levels of patients with RT-PCR confirmed COVID-19 were retrospectively evaluated for patients admitted at this tertiary care hospital in India from March 28, 2020 to June 2, 2020. D-dimer levels on admission along with the clinicopathological profile of the patients were retrieved from the records held and intensive care unit (ICU) as well as death events were collected to calculate the optimum cutoff using the receiver operating characteristic curve. The subjects were divided into two groups and D-dimer levels between uncomplicated cases and those requiring ICU admission or died during the course of disease compared to assess the predictive value of D-dimer.

Results:

A total of 70 patients were included in this study admitted in this tertiary care hospital whose complete D-dimer records were available and retrieved retrospectively. Ten deaths occurred during hospitalization in the study period. Patients with mean D-dimer levels ≥4026.56 μg/ml (fibrinogen equivalent units [FEU]) had a higher incidence of morbidity and mortality as compared to those who with lower mean D-dimer levels of 1268.66 μg/dl (FEU) with P < 0.001. The optimum cutoff value of D-dimer to predict in-hospital ICU admission or mortality at our hospital was 857.9 μg/L (FEU) with a sensitivity of 93.3% and a specificity of 69.09% and a negative predictive value of 97.44%.

Conclusion:

A D-dimer level > 857.9 μg/L (FEU) at admission portends a worse outcome for COVID-19 patients.
Seroprevalence of SARS-COV2 Antibodies among the Serving Personnel of South Western Command
Authors: Grewal Vikram Singh , Bandyopadhyay Kuntal , Jain Ashish , Dhawan Rakhi , Singh Arunjeet , Raikar Kedar Jayant , Dahiya Navdeep , Kharche Chetan , Srivastava Sanjeev Satish , Dutt Manohar , Kotwal Atul
Published: May 2024

Background:

Serological diagnosis has become an important tool to understand the extent of COVID-19 in the community. Thus, this study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies and to analyze various characteristics (risk factors) associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection among serving personnel in a large geographical area straddling four North Indian states.

Materials and Methods:

This multicentric, cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among serving personnel in eight stations spread over Punjab, UP, Haryana, and Rajasthan in October-November 2020. A total of 3680 (410 × 8 = 3280 general participants and 50 × 8 = 400 purposive samples) individuals were enrolled and tested using IgG ELISA kit (in four stations) and RAPID CARD-based tests (in the rest four stations).

Results:

While the overall seroprevalence was found to be 16.57% (610/3680 participants being positive), the seropositivity was found to be 12.01% (10.92%–13.70%) and 54% (52.35%–56.45%) among the study participant's and purposive sampling groups, respectively. While statistically significant association was found between seronegativity and attending any lecture on COVID-19 before the survey (P < 0.001) or following recommended protocols for the prevention of COVID-19 (P < 0.001), a similar association was found between seropositivity and occupation with high exposure to serving personnel or civilians (P < 0.001), having close contact (less than one meter) with COVID-19 confirmed cases in the past (P < 0.001) and being tested positive for COVID-19 in the past (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Our study found a moderate overall seroprevalence with low seroprevalence in few stations and high in the rest.
Prevaccination Seroprevalence of COVID-19 Immunoglobulin G Antibodies in Health-care Personnel and General Population after First Pandemic Wave in a Himalayan Region in North India
Authors: Khan Inam Danish , Jindal Ashok Kumar , Sahai Kavita , Samanta Indranil
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

COVID-19 has been declared as Public Health Emergency of International Concern with extreme risk of sustained global spread. The pandemic is likely to evolve in successive waves until herd immunity threshold (HIT) is achieved. Asymptomatic carriers and contacts are likely to elude case reporting through conventional algorithm of case finding, testing, contact tracing, and outbreak surveillance, thereby leading to underestimation of disease burden. Widespread community-level transmission of COVID-19 renders higher risk to health-care personnel due to higher propensity and duration of multiple exposures compared to general population.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional clinicoepidemiological outcome surveillance study on prevaccination seroprevalence of COVID-19 immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies against S1 receptor binding domain in health-care personnel and general population.

Results:

Seroprevalence of COVID-19 IgG in 570 health-care personnel was 224/570 (39.3%), without any skew based on age or gender. 75% were exposed in the hospital while 21.2% were exposed during travel and 3.1% through high-risk contact outside the hospital. Out of 33 COVID-19 positives, 88% underwent hospital isolation including one ICU admission and 12 home isolation. Seroprevalence of COVID-19 IgG in 400 individuals from general population samples was 138/400 (34.5%).

Conclusion:

Prevaccination seroprevalence of COVID-19 IgG antibodies after the first pandemic wave revealed no significant difference among health-care personnel and general population reflecting upon a possibility of consecutive pandemic waves until community attainment of HIT. Seroepidemiology can be a robust tool essential to ascertain exposure, immune response, immunity status, and predict susceptibility in population cohorts.
Risk Factor Profile of Mucormycosis in COVID 19 Patients
Authors: Soni Rahul , Nauhwaar Dheeraj , Kumar Abhinav , Patil Ankita , Saha Manish , Debnath Jayita
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19)-infected patients are at risk to develop severe opportunistic infections, especially fungal infections. The incidence of mucormycosis has increased in patients who are recovering from COVID-19 and now it has become an epidemic in India. In the background of the COVID-19 pandemic, we present a case series of seven patients with mucormycosis and their risk factor profile. Six of our patients had nonketotic poorly controlled glycemic status. All patients were mild or asymptomatic as far as COVID-19 clinical symptoms are concerned, but they had high inflammatory markers such as interleukin 6 (IL-6), ferritin, and D-dimer, which are commonly seen in a cytokine storm. Hyperglycemia and COVID-19 infection were consistent features in our patients. We found that COVID-19 patients with poor glycemic control and high inflammatory markers are at high risk for mucormycosis infection. However, the duration from the diagnosis of COVID-19 and the development of symptoms of mucormycosis was varied from 1 to 12 days (mean- 5.71). There was no correlation of the level of IL-6 or D-dimer with the early onset of mucormycosis. We also did not find any correlation of mucormycosis with other proposed risk factors such as oxygen therapy, steam inhalation, or prolonged steroid therapy, since four of our patients had never received steroids in any form and three had received only mild dosages of steroid. The sample size for statistical analysis was inadequate. However, a randomized clinical trial or larger observational study is needed to establish this observation.
Featureless Retina in Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Kapoor Aditya
Published: May 2024

Featureless retina is usually seen in patients with type one diabetes mellitus and is frequently misdiagnosed as asymmetric diabetic retinopathy (DR). It is characterized by retinal neovascularization with the absence of retinal lesions such as retinal hemorrhages, cotton wool spots, and intraretinal microvascular abnormalities, features which are typical of proliferative DR. Fundus fluorescein angiography is particularly helpful in these cases as it reveals extensive areas of capillary dropout and neovascularization. It is of utmost importance to anticipate its presence and manage these patients appropriately to prevent blinding consequences. This article offers some clinical insights for better diagnosing and managing such patients.
A Case Report of Conjunctival Ophthalmomyiasis by Oestrus ovis with insights into its morphology, life cycle, and clinical presentation
Authors: Gonugunta Vishnu Teja , Dipankar Datta , Pabolu Chinmayee
Published: May 2024

Conjunctival ophthalmomyiasis is an infestation of larvae on the conjunctiva. The larvae of sheep botfly (Oestrus ovis) can be the cause of ocular irritation in occupationally predisposed individuals like shepherds. External (conjunctival) ophthalmomyiasis can progress to severe form of internal ophthalmomyiasis. We report the presence of live motile larvae of sheep botfly on the conjunctiva of a patient, shepherd by occupation presenting with irritation in the eye. Diffuse ocular examination was normal until everted lid examination revealed two white larvae with black dots at their head end crawling fast on the tarsal conjunctiva. Removal of the larvae is the only treatment, and treatment of the cattle as well, is essential to prevent recurrence and also to increase the cattle yield.
Reference range of testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels in women during reproductive age in the Iranian population
Authors: Meamar Rokhsareh , Feizi Awat , Aminorroaya Ashraf , Amini Masoud , Iraj Bijan , Heidarpour Maryam
Published: May 2024

Backgrounds:

To determine the average cutoff values of serum-free and total testosterone (FT, TT) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) among healthy premenopausal women.

Materials and Methods:

Participants were women aged 18–55 years without signs and symptoms of hyperandrogenism (n = 489). Participants if Ferriman–Gallwey (FG) scores between 6 and 8 were considered a group located in the upper spectrum related to the normal hirsutism score (n = 30). DHEAS, TT, and FT levels were compared between different populations. Upper limits of 97.5 and 95 and lower limits of 5 and 2.5 percentiles were calculated to provide the reference intervals for DHEA, TT, and FT in the total sample and in the population with FG 6–8.

Results:

In the total population, the mean ± standard deviation (SD) serum FT, TT, and DHEAS levels were 1.40 ± 0.63 pg/mL, 0.42 ± 0.17 ng/mL, and 1.5 ± 0.97 µg/ml, respectively. The cutoff values of FT at 1.35 and TT at 0.49 were obtained for differentiating the patients with FG 6–8 scores from the normal population, with the corresponding specificity of 0.60, the sensitivity of 0.67, and area under the ROC curve (AUC) (confidence interval 95%) of 0.63 (0.52–0.73), P = 0.01 and 0.68 (0.58–0.78) P = 0.001, respectively.

Conclusions:

In our study, the mean ± SD serum FT level was 1.40 ± 0.63 pg/mL, the TT level was 0.42 ± 0.17 ng/mL, and the DHEAS level was 1.5 ± 0.97 µg/ml, in premenopausal women between 18 and 49 years of age. Furthermore, in a population with FG 6–8 score, a cutoff value of FT at 1.35 and TT at 0.49 was obtained. Although the irregular menstrual cycle did not change the reference range when compared with the normal group.
Effect of Ganoderma lucidum on serum lipid profiles: A systematic review and meta-analysis on animal studies
Authors: Aref Maryam , Khoshhali Mehri , Ghasemi Pouria , Adeli Shaghayegh , Heidari-Beni Motahar , Kelishadi Roya
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ganoderma lucidum (G. lucidum) is one of the most popular edible mushrooms in the world which has various pharmacological components. Recently, some animal studies have investigated the lipid-lowering effects of G. lucidum and have shown contradictory results. This study aims to systematically review the effects of G. lucidum on lipid parameters in animal studies.

Materials and Methods:

A systematic search was conducted in the Medline database (PubMed), Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar up to the end of January 2022. Only animal studies and all eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs), including cluster RCTs and randomized crossover trials were included. The English language studies that assessed the effects of G. lucidum on lipid profiles including total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) were selected.

Results:

Among 358 studies, 49 articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. G. lucidum consumption was associated with decreased levels of TG (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −1.52, 95% CI: −1.79, −1.24), TC (SMD = −1.51, 95% CI: −1.75, −1.27), LDL-C (SMD = −2.03, 95% CI: −2.37, −1.69) and VLDL (SMD =-1.06, 95% CI: −1.638, −0.482). Furthermore, G. lucidum consumption was associated with increased levels of HDL-C (SMD = 1.03, 95% CI: 0.73, 1.33).

Conclusion:

G. lucidum has favorable effects on TG, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, and VLDL. Different doses of G. lucidum have various degrees of effectiveness on lipid profiles.
Evaluating the effect of cow’s milk fortified with albumin powder on malnutrition and anthropometric indices in primary-school children with mild-to-moderate underweight: A randomized double-blinded clinical trial
Authors: Davarpanah Hajar , Ziaee Roxaneh Sadat , Esmaeilinezhad Zahra , Etemadfar Peyman , Hematyar Javad , Babajafari Siavash , Barati-Boldaji Reza
Published: May 2024

Background:

A proper diet plan is one of the necessary conditions for maintaining the children’s health. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of consumption of pasteurized cow’s milk fortified with albumin protein in primary-school children, in Yasuj, Iran.

Materials and Methods:

In this double-blind randomized clinical trial with 12 weeks of duration, 60 children aged 7–13 years, mild to moderate underweight (−1≥ weight-for-age z-score ≥−3), were randomly assigned to control and albumin groups. The albumin group and the control group received 200 cc of milk with 10 g of albumin powder and 200 cc of milk with 10 g of cornstarch powder, respectively. At the beginning and end of the study, food intake and anthropometric indices were measured.

Results:

After 12 weeks of intervention, none of the anthropometric indices (weight, weight-for-age z-score, body mass index (BMI), BMI-for-age z-score, and waist circumference) showed significant changes as compared to baseline in the control group, but weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score showed significant increase as compared to baseline in the albumin group (before: −2.25 ± 0.40, after: −1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.001 and before: −3.48 ± 0.86, after: −3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.009, respectively). The comparison of the mean changes between the two groups showed significant difference regarding weight-for-age z-score (control group: −1.70 ± 0.31 in comparison with albumin group: −1.98 ± 0.35, P = 0.002), BMI (control group: 12.08 ± 1.96 in comparison with albumin group: 12.13 ± 1.49, P = 0.03), and BMI-for-age z-score (control group: −3.11 ± 0.91 in comparison with albumin group: −3.06 ± 0.71, P = 0.02).

Conclusion:

The consumption of albumin powder with milk can improve weight-for-age z-score and BMI-for-age z-score indices in children with mild-to-moderate underweight. Larger controlled interventional studies with longer duration are recommended.
Safety and efficacy of dinutuximab in the treatment of neuroblastoma: A review
Authors: Mohd Ahmed Bassam , Mohd Omar B , Alabdallat Yasmeen J , Al Dwairy Salem Yousef , Ghannam Reem A , Hanaqtah Balqees M , Albakri Khaled A
Published: May 2024

Dinutuximab, which is a monoclonal antibody targeting GD2 expressed in neuroblasts, improves survival when included in the therapy regimen. This article reviews the importance of dinutuximab in managing neuroblastoma (NB). Dinutuximab targets high levels of GD2 expression in NB cells, thus increasing event-free survival when used in the maintenance therapy of high-risk patients with NB. Although several collaborative studies have set the standard of care for maintenance therapy, the long-term follow-up and continuous evaluation of the use of antibodies and the co-administration of other pharmacological or immunomodulatory drugs remain to be studied. Trials have shown that the use of dinutuximab for maintenance therapy can prolong the time before the first relapse and improve overall survival. However, there is uncertainty in the function of cytokines co-administered with dinutuximab, which may lead to increased toxicity without additional benefits. Recent studies on relapsed and refractory NB have shown the potential efficacy of dinutuximab. Further research is required to properly incorporate Dinutuximab in current treatment modalities.
Detection of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection in a Semi-Urban Setting in Nigeria
Authors: Nwachukwu Ndubuisi Obiora , Ulasi Amara Esther , Ezeagwula Divine
Published: May 2024

Background:

Chlamydia
trachomatis (CT) infection affects over 131 million people annually. It is one of the most prevalent bacterial sexually transmitted infections. This study aimed at the detection of CT infection among young adult females in the Okpoko community, Anambra State, Nigeria.

Patients and Methods:

Self-collected vaginal swabs from 288 females aged 18–37 years were tested for CT antigen using the Solid Chlamydia Rapid Test kit (USA).

Results:

CT antigen was detected in 19 (6.6%) samples. The age group of 23–27 years had the highest prevalence rate (10.7%), followed by 18–22 years (8.7%). The married participants were more infected (8.3%) than singles (3.1%) (P < 0.05). A higher percentage of participants (99.3%) were not aware that CT was sexually transmitted.

Conclusion:

Active CT infection was detected in the Okpoko community. Regular screening of young females as well as propagation of information on sexually transmitted infections should be encouraged to break the community transmission.
Training Medical Students in Cognitive, Intrapersonal, and Interpersonal Domain Competencies: Existing Challenges and Role of Medical Teachers
Authors: Shrivastava Saurabh RamBihariLal , Raharjo Mira Ayu Duan , Pratama Bayu Fajar , Nur Tasi’ah Nashirah , Maziyyah Nurul , Pratidina Kresna Lintang , Maliny Achcia Thema , Retnaningrum Yanuarti
Published: May 2024

The medical students of the current generation are expected to perform a wide range of activities targeted toward the acquisition of a multitude of skills and the attainment of various learning competencies. The purpose of the current review is to explore the challenges in the cognitive, interpersonal, and intrapersonal domains, and to propose an educational plan to respond to the challenges defined in the cognitive domain. An extensive search of all materials related to the topic was carried out on the PubMed and Google Scholar search engines and a total of 39 articles were selected based on their suitability with the current review objectives. Keywords used in the search include critical thinking and medical education in the title alone only. The findings of a committee reported that a successful health-care professional will essentially require competence in three domains, namely cognitive, intrapersonal, and interpersonal domain. However, the careful analysis of the medical education delivery system across different parts of the world suggests that we are falling short in our efforts to adequately expose medical students’ to these competencies. In the global mission to improve the quality of health-care delivery, we have to take specific measures to ensure the attainment of the desired competencies, and the involvement of teachers will be crucial. In conclusion, considering the dynamism in the health sector, it is the responsibility of educators to enhance the attainment of cognitive competencies of the students. Further, students should be encouraged to reflect, and experiential learning should be regularly practiced to equip the students with intrapersonal skills. Finally, we also have to focus on the attainment of interpersonal competencies, as it prepares them to work as effective members of the team.
Treatment Response and Short-term Outcomes in Children Admitted as Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children
Authors: Batt Mousin Mustafa , Saini Ghanshyam S. , Dar Mohammad Irfan
Published: May 2024

Background:

Multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) is a postviral complication that has been described among children after 2–6 weeks of exposure to the COVID-19 virus from various parts of the world. Published literature regarding MIS-C in children is limited. The aim of this study was to investigate the disease management and clinical outcomes of a larger group of children from North India presenting with features of MIS-C.

Materials and Methods:

This is an observational study of children with MIS-C, admitted to the pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) between March 1, 2021, and August 31, 2021, during the second wave of SARS-CoV-2 infection in India.

Results:

Out of the 37 children presenting with MIS-C, 62% of patients were male and 37% were female patients. Vasoactive medications were required in 14 patients. Eighteen patients required respiratory support, of which 17 received noninvasive ventilation and only one patient required invasive mechanical ventilation. Methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) were used in the majority of patients. No patient required remdesivir. Thirty-six patients were discharged home with a median duration of 4 days in PICU and a hospital stay of 10 days, only 1 (2.7%) patient died during the treatment. Thirty-five (94.5%) patients received IVIG alone, and five patients (13.5%) received IVIG along with methylprednisolone. Patients who received a combination of steroids and IVIG had greater severity of illness, deranged laboratory parameters, highly raised inflammatory markers, requiring higher inotropes, respiratory support, PICU requirement, and length of stay in hospital.

Conclusions:

The decision to treat MIS-C patients with IVIG plus methylprednisolone or IVIG alone must be reviewed on an individual basis. IVIG in conjunction with methylprednisolone should be considered for patients with severe MIS-C and hypotension who have been admitted to the PICU.
Peer Victimization of Indian Students: Prevalence and Correlates
Authors: Prahbhjot Malhi , Sidhu Manjit , Bharti Bhavneet
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

To examine the overlap of traditional and cyber victimization and the relationship between victimization and self-esteem of college and university students.

Methodology:

The study utilized a cross-sectional online survey design to measure the self-reported experiences of peer victimization of higher education students. The multidimensional bullying and cyberbullying scale and the Rosenberg self-esteem scale were used to measure traditional and cyber victimization and self-esteem, respectively. The study was cleared by the Institutional Ethics Committee.

Results:

A total of 854 complete responses were included in the study (mean age = 21.6 years, standard deviation = 3.55) and a little more than three-fourths of the participants were females (76.7%). The overall prevalence of victimization of any type of bullying was 44.6%. Offline victimization was more common and overall, 40.9% reported being victimized offline, while 23.3% reported being victimized online in the last 3 months, respectively. There was considerable overlap between various types of victimization, and the correlations between cyberbullying, physical, verbal, and relational bullying were moderate (range 0.41–0.56). Most were bullied by known people and friends (28.1%). Only a small proportion considered reporting the bullying to the authorities (10.7%). No link between problematic technology use and cyber victimization was found. A one-way Analysis of variance revealed that victims of both types of bullying had the lowest self-esteem score (F = 9.04, P = 0.0001).

Conclusions:

Public health policymakers need to focus on positive youth development to foster resilience in the face of adversity and help young adults to thrive and flourish in a rapidly expanding and evolving digital world.
Stereomicroscopic Evaluation of Marginal Fit of Premachined and Castable Abutments at Implant Abutment Connection Interface – An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kumar Prince , Singh Swarndeep , Mishra Sunil Kumar
Published: May 2024

Background:

The precision fit at the implant-abutment interface is a significant criterion for the success of implant restorations clinically. Various factors are involved in it, including fabrication techniques and utilized materials. The misfit at the implant-abutment interface is capable of causing screw loosening and fracture of the abutment screws.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the marginal fit of premachined and castable abutment at implant-abutment connection interface using stereomicroscope.

Materials and Methods:

Fifteen castable abutments (Group A) and 15 premachined titanium abutments (Group B) were used for the study and connected to titanium implants and evaluated under the stereomicroscope. Images of the sample were recorded at three equidistant points at the implant-abutment interface to measure the vertical microgap at the platform level. The data were subjected to statistical evaluation using the “t”- test.

Results:

Data were sent for the statistical analysis by the software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version. The mean for Group A (customized abutments) at mesiobuccal point was 13.2199 with a standard error of 0.5281. For premachined abutments, it was 6.4629 and with a standard error of 0.3201. Similarly, the mean for Group A (customized abutments) at the distobuccal point was 12.0861 with a standard error of 0.3428. On comparative assessment, the mean microgap in between the groups showed significant difference (Tukey test).

Conclusion:

On implant-abutment interface at the platform level, the microgaps of premachined implant abutments were significantly lesser than the casted implant abutments. Furthermore, the microgap of both tested groups was found within the clinically acceptable ranges.
A Retrospective Study on the Occurrence and Prevalence of Ovarian Masses in the Patients of Rajkot District, Gujarat
Authors: Vyas Kirtan M , Patel Avni P , Vyas Ashita K , Gohel Hardik
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective:

Ovarian masses are one of the most common clinical conditions among women, which if not treated properly may be developed into malignant. However, not ovarian masses are progressing into malignant, and early diagnosis and treatment generally cure them without much destruction. The rate of occurrence highly depends on the demographic and obstetric profile of women. Since demographic profile varies it becomes essential to carry out detailed studies of a particular region to understand the prevalence of ovarian masses. Here, such a retroprospective study was carried out to determine the prevalence of ovarian masses in the Rajkot district.

Methodology:

A total of 44 cases with ovarian masses were taken into consideration for the determination of the effect of various parameters and their association with ovarian masses. The patients were analyzed for nonneoplastic, benign, and malignant tumors. Patients were analyzed based on demographic location, obstetric profile, and clinical presentations.

Results:

Based on the entire study, it was found that women in a middle age group are more prone to ovarian masses as compared to the older age group. Not only this but higher parity is also associated with increased chances of ovarian masses. Among nonneoplastic tumors occurrence of the serious cyst was highest. While in the case of benign tumors, mucinous cystadenoma and teratoma both were found predominant. However, no significant difference was observed in the patients with nonneoplastic and benign tumors. Among 44 cases, only one case with serous papillary adenocarcinoma was found.

Conclusion:

Based on the results of the study, it was found that women of Rajkot district in the age group 30–50 years are more prone to ovarian masses.
Cystic Neutrophilic Granulomatous Mastitis: A Study from Tertiary Care Center in Kashmir
Authors: Aiman Aiffa , Aisha Zoya , Akhtar Rukhsana , Jeelani Tazeen , Yaseen Syed Besina , Yasir Mir
Published: May 2024

Background:

Cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis (CNGM) is a rare subtype of granulomatous mastitis with a distinct histological pattern. The current literature suggests strong association with Corynebacterium species, evidence of corynebacterial infection can be difficult to prove. Clinically, CNGM may be virtually impossible to discern from invasive carcinoma.

Materials and Methods:

The current study is 1 year prospective study from August 2021 to July 2022. A total of seven cases of cystic neutrophilic granulomatous mastitis were reported.

Results:

Six out of seven patients were in the fourth decade of life. All of the patients presented with breast swelling and nipple discharge, whereas two patients had multiple discharging sinuses over the breast.

Conclusion:

Gram-positive bacterial infections have a distinctive pattern of inflammation in breast abscesses that can easily be overlooked. Pathologists should actively search for Gram-positive bacilli in distinctive cystic spaces. The importance of this is that prolonged antibiotic therapy against corynebacteria is often needed even beyond the resolution of symptoms in CNGM.