bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified biophysical profile in high-risk pregnancy and its correlation with perinatal outcome
Authors: Kumari Asha , Gandhi Sudha , Deora Kapil Nath
Published: April 2023

Background: Aim of the present study was to evaluate the perinatal outcome in high-risk pregnancy with modified biophysical profile (MBPP).
Methods: The study is observational study,65 high risk pregnant women fulfilling the inclusion criteria participated in the study. The study subjects were subjected to MBPP. Then perinatal outcomes were assessed in view of mode of delivery, maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.
Results: Out of 65 cases, 78.5% had normal NST, 80% had normal AFI.3 neonates got admitted in NICU. 13 women underwent LSCS, 9 had instrumental delivery and rest delivered vaginally normal.
Conclusions: The study showed that HRPs with MBPP abnormal or any of MBPP parameter abnormal have higher chances of perinatal morbidity and mortality.
Maternal and perinatal outcome in abruption placenta in tertiary care center: a record based case series study
Authors: Nethaji Divya T. , Hurakadli Kirti M. , Duggavathi Shama P.
Published: April 2023

Background: Abruptio placenta is premature separation of the normally implanted placenta before delivery. It is one of the leading causes of maternal morbidity and neonatal morbidity and mortality, more so because of the difficulty to predict the acute event. It occurs in approximately one in 80 deliveries and remains a significant cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. Objective of the study was to study maternal and perinatal outcome in cases of abruption.
Methods: 42 cases of pregnant women who presented with abruption placenta to HSK hospital and Research Centre, S. Nijalingappa Medical College, a tertiary care centre at Bagalkot, from January 2022 to December 2022. Maternal and perinatal characteristics were retrieved from the case papers.
Results: Among 42 cases of abruption 70% delivered vaginally and 30% underwent caesarean section. 84% had preterm delivery. 66% were still born. 21% were case of severe anaemia and required blood transfusion. 1 had maternal mortality.
Conclusions: The availability of advanced emergency obstetric care across greater number of referral hospitals has been responsible for decreasing the morbidity and mortality associated with many obstetric conditions. However, the challenge with abruptio placenta is the difficulty of predicting this condition, and hence appropriate management. As of now, early referral to tertiary care centres, better availability of blood and blood products and early interventions have the potential to limit adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. Research regarding predictors of placental abruption can help in improving maternal and perinatal outcome.
Fetomaternal outcome in pregnancy with fibroid: a prospective observational study
Authors: Ahmed Kaiser , Uzma Syed , Gulzar Ruby , Wani Bilal
Published: April 2023

Background: Uterine leiomyomas simply called as myomas, fibroids, fibroma, are benign neoplasm derived from smooth muscle cell rests of vessel wall or uterine musculature. Fibroids are rarely observed before puberty, most prevalent during reproductive age group and regress after menopause. They are oestrogen-dependent tumours, and there is evidence that leiomyomas overexpress certain estrogen and progesterone receptors when compared to normal surrounding myometrium.
Methods: The present study was a prospective observational study conducted in Government Lalla Ded Hospital GMC Srinagar over a period of 18 months from May 2021 to November 2022.
Results: Out of 100 patients, only 66 were delivered in our hospital while this study was being conducted. 38% patients had LSCS, 23% had normal vaginal delivery and 5% patients had vaginal delivery followed by curette. Pain was the most common antenatal complication found in 28% of patients, followed by 12% patients with malpresentation, 11% had abortion, 7% had APH and 5% patients had IUD. There was no preterm delivery or PPROM in our study.
Conclusions: The present study demonstrated that the incidence of fibroids was highest in between age group of 25-34 years. The commonest type of fibroid was intramural anterior wall upper segment, followed by intramural posterior wall upper segment. Guarded pregnancy outcome was seen in multiple large fibroids in pregnancy. Cesarean section rate was on higher side especially in multiple fibroids and occupying the lower segment. Decision for cesarean myomectomy should be reserved for selected cases only where the fibroid comes in the incision site or large pedunculated fibroid. Routine cesarean myomectomy should be discouraged. To improve the neonatal outcome in pregnancies with multiple fibroids, cesarean should be done by the staff trained in delivering babies in difficult scenarios.
Sensitivity of ultrasound scan and hysteroscopy with histopathological correlation in identifying endometrial pathology for a mixed group of symptomatic and asymptomatic patients
Authors: Shetty Ashwin , Dalal Asha , Manwani Saloni
Published: April 2023

Background: We wished to correlate abnormal findings on hysteroscopy with abnormal findings on Ultrasound. To study the accuracy of ultrasound for detection of uterine polyps using hysteroscopy as gold standard. Analyse the cases detected with Carcinoma Endometrium and other endometrial pathology.
Methods: In this retrospective study, we summarized data from 125 patients who underwent TVS examination followed by hysteroscopy under 2 consultants from 2017 to 2020. Specimens were obtained and sent for histopathological examination. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values for diagnosing uterine pathology were calculated for each method.
Results: The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography for identifying polyps is 27.03% and 98.04% respectively The sensitivity of ultrasonography for identifying any abnormal pathology is 90.08%. A total of 74 hysteroscopy identified and histology confirmed polyps were identified with no incidence of cancer in all the polyps. A total of 8 patients were diagnosed to have Endometrial Cancer on endometrial biopsy. Of these 8, 7 were postmenopausal and 1 premenopausal. 2 patients of these were asymptomatic with incidental finding of thickened endometrium on ultrasonography.
Conclusions: Transvaginal ultrasound is a practical approach for initial evaluation of abnormal uterine bleeding, however a hysteroscopy would be necessary in most of the suspicious cases due to better diagnostic accuracy. A unique feature of this study is the inclusion of a group of asymptomatic women incidentally detected to have uterine pathology including uterine carcinoma on routine health examination hence highlighting the importance of routine gynaecological check especially in the peri and post-menopausal age group.
Mother’s experience in alternate birth positions during second stage of labour
Authors: Modi Sakshi S. , Desai Dhwani P. , Verma Ragini N.
Published: April 2023

Background: The main objective of our research was to study mother’s experience in alternate birth positions during second stage of labour. Evidently, providing freedom to choose birthing positions positively impacts the women’s comfort level and intrapartum birthing experience.
Methods: In the present study we counselled our antenatal and intranatal patients about the benefits and risks of alternate birthing positions. We enrolled 50 consecutive consenting parturients with prior vaginal delivery, who opted to adopt alternate birth position during second stage of labour. Maternal experience of birthing in alternate positions was compared to her experience in previous childbirth in dorsal position by using a standard pre-validated questionnaire using Likert scale with close ended and open-ended questions.
Results: In our study, 49/50 (98%) mothers found alternate positions helpful, 46/50 (92%) mothers reported bearing down was easier, 47/50 (94%) mothers felt they would recommend alternate birth positions to others, for 49/50 (98%) parturients progression of labour was satisfactory, 48/50 (96%) had a good birthing experience, 44/50 (88%) felt duration of labour was less than what they had expected and 46/50 (92%) parturients reported that birthing experience in alternate birth position was more comfortable as compared to their previous delivery.
Conclusions: Overall experience of delivering in alternate birth position was positive. Thus, it is clear that when women are informed and educated about their options, they are in a better position to make decisions from the available options and gain a sense of control over their healthcare with improved satisfaction and experience.
Patient satisfactory score post oncoplastic breast surgery- our institutional experience
Authors: Shanmugam Subbiah , Susikar Sujay , Bharath Radha Siva
Published: April 2023

Background: Surgical management of breast cancer is rapidly evolving with increasing importance on techniques to preserve patient’s quality of life and post treatment cosmesis. Oncoplastic breast surgery (OBS) combines oncologic principles with plastic surgery techniques to improve cosmetic results by immediate breast reconstruction at the time of surgery. We aimed to evaluate patient reported satisfaction using questionnaire following OBS.
Methods: This was a prospective observational study of 25 patients who underwent oncoplastic breast surgery at the department of surgical oncology, Government Royapettah hospital, Kilpauk Medical College Chennai, between 2021 January - September 2022. Patients who underwent OBS were given the questionnaire (BREAST-Q) directed specifically on satisfaction with breast cosmesis at one month postoperatively.
Results: Mean satisfactory score was 42.4 (highly satisfied), 5 out of 25 (20%) patients responded with a score of 50/50. The patient with a minimum score of 26/50, had undergone wise pattern mammoplasty for giant fibroadenoma and had nipple areola complex necrosis postoperatively. No major complications were noted in other patients.
Conclusions: OBS is emerging as the standard of care in India for early breast cancer, although time taken is longer than the west. Long term outcomes in the Indian population are yet to emerge. Our results demonstrate a high satisfaction with breasts cosmesis in patients who underwent OBS.
Hyperuricemia and maternal outcome in pregnancy induced hypertension: prospective study in a tertiary care center in Mumbai, India
Authors: Sedamkar Maheshwari S. , Patil Varsha N.
Published: April 2023

Background: Pregnancy induced hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia are serious complications of pregnancy. They are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the world and one of the leading causes for perinatal mortality also. It is the systemic disease affecting all vital organs including the fetus. Estimation of biochemical markers can give us the indication of the severity and prediction of the outcome. Serum uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism, amongst others like creatinine, LDH, transaminases.
Methods: It was a type of prospective descriptive study. The present study was conducted in department of obstetrics and gynecology, Tertiary care hospital, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.
Results: Pregnancy induced hypertension was most common in age group of 20-25 years, most common complication was preterm delivery which accounts for 43% of maternal complications. 60% of the cases with IUFD had serum uric acid level 8-8.9 mg/dl, 3% of the patients had HELLP syndrome.
Conclusions: We found severity of complication associated with raise in serum uric acid levels.
Study of menstrual disorders and its correlation with BMI in adolescents
Authors: Agrawal Megha , Goyal Ashish , Gupta Priyanka , Agrawal Anshul
Published: April 2023

Background: Due to change in lifestyle, habits, diet, the prevalence of obesity has increased. Excess weight and obesity are associated with irregular menstrual cycles, which reduce fertility and increase hormone-sensitive cancers. Obesity is considered to cause abnormality of sex steroid hormone balance. Irregular menstruation is more frequently observed in women who became obese during puberty than in those who were obese during infancy. Obesity has a strong association with infertility and menstrual irregularities.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Durgapur (West Bengal), where total 600 adolescent girls aged 12-17 years from DAV Model School, Durgapur and GMPS High School, Durgapur were selected.
Results: Out of total 600 girls, 119 girls (19.8%) had BMI<18.5 kg/m2, 357 girls (59.5%) had BMI between 18.5-24.99 kg/m2 and 124 girls (20.7%) had BMI>25 kg/m2. Only 68 girls (57.1%) with less BMI, 205 girls (57.4%) with normal BMI and 62 girls (50%) with BMI>25 kg/m2 had dysmenorrhoea. Only 19 girls (16%) with less BMI, 46 girls (12.9%) with normal BMI and only 15 girls (12.1%) with higher BMI had menorrhagia. Only 4 girls (3.4%) with less BMI, 14 girls (3.9%) with normal BMI and 12 girls (9.7%) with high BMI had hypomenorrhoea. Only 10 girls (8.4%) with less BMI, 37 girls (10.4%) with normal BMI and only 28 girls (22.5%) with high BMI had irregular cycles. Only 5 girls (4.2%) with less BMI, 12 girls (3.4%) with normal BMI and only 11 girls (8.9%) with high BMI had oligomenorrhoea. Only 2 girls (1.7%) with less BMI, 3 girls (0.8%) with normal BMI and only 4 girls (3.2%) with higher BMI had polymenorrhoea. Only 43 underweight girls (36.1%), 166 girls (46.5%) with normal BMI and 68 girls (54.8%) with higher BMI had premenstrual symptoms.
Conclusions: Mean BMI was found 21.6±3.64 kg/m2. High BMI girls had more oligomenorrhoea, hypomenorrhoea, irregular menstrual cycles, polymenorrhoea, premenstrual symptoms and less dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia comparatively to normal BMI girls and underweight girls.
Effectiveness of circuit interval training and physiotherapy health education on anthropometric measurements and quality of life among obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome- a randomised controlled trial
Authors: S. Christy Sopna  , Beulah Jebakani D.  , Jayavani R. L.  , Sabita P.
Published: April 2023

Background: The objective was to assess the effectiveness of circuit interval training and physiotherapy health education on anthropometric measurements and quality of life (QOL) among obese women with PCOS.
Methods: The study is a parallel group randomised controlled trial   among 40 obese women diagnosed with PCOS based on Rotterdam criteria and conducted in obstetrics and gynaecology Physiotherapy centre, IGMC&RI, Puducherry. Allocation of participants to group A and group B done using permutated block randomization by an independent physiotherapist. Group A(n=20) received the conventional treatment and Group B (n=20) received the circuit interval training for 6 weeks.
Results: The outcome values obtained were calculated by the software SPSS 26. The power of the study is 80%. P<0.05 was considered a significant difference and 95% confidence. There was a significant improvement in the pre and post-test values of anthropometric measurements (BMI and WHR) within the experimental group. The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) of 1.03 points in BMI, 0.019 in WHR, and 0.018 in WHtR, which was higher than the MCID of the control group was observed between the groups. The results show that circuit interval training is effective in improving the anthropometric measurements and quality of life obesity was found to have a negative correlation with the quality of life, implying that increased weight reduces the quality of life in PCOS women.
Conclusions: Circuit interval training along with physiotherapy health education, has a positive impact on improving anthropometric measurements such as BMI, waist circumference, and metabolic parameters over time.
Cervical leiomyomas: a surgeon’s challenge
Authors: C. Pushpa , Ashok R. Anand  , Aditi R. Jain
Published: April 2023

Leiomyoma are benign uterine tumors of unknown etiology. Only 5% of the cases are cervical and are usually single. Extraperitoneal leiomyomas leads to pressure symptoms. They may be submucosal, intramural or sub-serosal type. Anterior cervical fibroids are the most common. Central cervical fibroids are described as “The Lantern on the dome of St. Paul’s”. A retrospective clinical study of 6 cervical fibroids operated in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, in a tertiary care hospital in Mumbai for a period of 24 months from March 2021 to February 2022. Patients were studied with respect to clinical profiles, pre-operative investigations, intra- operative surgical challenges and post-operative surveillance. In our study we observed that cervical fibroids were most commonly diagnosed in the age group of 40-50 years, and most commonly in women of second parity. The most common presenting symptom was pain in abdomen. All patients underwent hysterectomy (abdominal or vaginal), wherein 16% of them required blood transfusion. The largest cervical fibroid operated was 20 x 12 x 10 cm in size with uterus corresponding to 22 weeks of gestation. Excision of cervical fibroids is a challenging procedure due to its close proximity to ureters. It is only with experience and with fine surgical skills that a good patient outcome can be achieved. Even after advent of various alternative management options, surgery remains the mainstay of treatment and is still a surgeon’s nightmare.
Krukenberg tumor
Authors: Nitesh Thakur  , Suman Thakur  , Kushla Pathania  , Rama Thakur
Published: April 2023

Krukenberg tumor is a rare form of metastatic ovarian cancer which accounts for less than 2% of all ovarian tumor. Krukenberg tumor mostly occurs after the age of 40 years and is rarely found in younger age group. It usually presents with bilateral involvement of ovaries. It presents when the primary is already advanced. Here we are presenting a rare case of Krukenberg tumor in a 22 years old female with primary from stomach.
Primary abdominal pregnancy causing diagnostic dilemma: a case report
Authors: Sandhya  Gadre  , Sonal Jain  , Chaudhary Gunjan , Farah Meenai Jalaly
Published: April 2023

The aim of the study was to present a case of primary abdominal pregnancy, a rare entity and highlighting the diagnostic dilemma and importance of surgical management. Primigravida with an amenorrhea of 35 days presented to the casualty with acute abdomen, with faintly positive UPT test and USG pelvis was suggestive of ill-defined hypoechoeic mass lesion in right sided adnexal region abutting right ovary. Intra-operatively, blood clots with products of conception were found adherent to anterior layer of right broad ligament. Uterus, both fallopian tubes and both ovaries found intact with normal morphology. On histopathology, no chorionic villi was found inside the lumen of the fallopian tube. Presence of occasional ghost chorionic villi embedded in blood clots, scattered cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblasts also seen in the sample obtained from the anterior leaf of broad ligament. Primary abdominal pregnancy is not only rare but the diagnosis is also a challenge. It can be diagnosed conclusively after laparotomy. There are no symptoms which are pathognomonic for abdominal pregnancy. The symptoms are akin to other types of ectopic pregnancy, so a high index of suspicion is highly necessary for diagnosis. The keys to management are an early diagnosis and prompt surgery.
Rare cause of stillbirth: a true knot and loop of cord: case report
Authors: Jain Astha , Roy Pratibha , Sharma Sumedha , Aruna Nigam
Published: April 2023

True knot is an extremely rare condition of the umbilical cord. It affects around 0.3-1.3% of all the pregnancies. It can be loose without obstructing the blood flow to the foetus or can be tight enough to exsanguinate the foetus by compromising the blood flow towards the foetus. A 26 years old, gravida 2, para 1, live 1, with previous 1 caesarean section with hypothyroidism came at 40 weeks POG in labour. No complaints. Antenatal history was uneventful. On examination, patient was stable. Patient was explained risk and demits of TOLAC verses ERCD and opted for TOLAC. Delivered a limp baby. There was presence of one tight loop of cord around neck and one tight true knot over the umbilical cord leading to stillbirth. The umbilical cord is the only blood supply to the foetus during the antepartum and intrapartum period. If the true knot is loose, it will not lead to foetal compromise since foetal circulation is maintained. However, at the time of fetal descent through the birth canal, the knot could be tightened. The tightening knot can occlude fetal circulation resulting in an intrauterine demise. The process of delivery should be very careful and if any fetal distress or non-reactive CTG is present, then an emergency caesarean section must be done. Routine continuous cardiotocography can be the best modality to pick distress at the earliest and to achieve a good outcome of the neonate. A good ultrasonologist can detect nuchal cord and true knot during the antenatal scan.
A miraculous pregnancy following a myocardial infarction and coronary artery bypass grafting: a case report and review of literature
Authors: Yadav Anita , Prakash Avinash , Baghel Jyoti , Kamath Anusha , Rawat Rajneesh
Published: April 2023

Cardiovascular disease is estimated to occur in 0.4-4.1% of pregnant women, whereas coronary heart disease complicates only 0.01% of all pregnancies. In recent times, MI has been observed to occur more frequently in young women. This might be attributed to the fact that women are deciding to become pregnant at advanced age. In such high-risk cases, proper pre-pregnancy, antenatal, intrapartum and post-partum care should be taken. Pregnant women with heart disease should be managed by a multidisciplinary team approach comprising of obstetricians, intensivists, cardiologists and neonatologists. Here, a case of pregnant woman with past history of MI; treated with coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) is presented and the management is highlighted.
Pregnancy in sickle cell thalassemia: double trouble!
Authors: N. Sunanda , Impana M.
Published: April 2023

This is a case report of 20-year-old multigravida (G2P1L0) belonging to tribal community presented at 30 weeks of gestation with severe anemia, fever, arthralgia and jaundice with multiple blood transfusions in the past and with previous pregnancy outcome being stillborn and was not evaluated for the same. A diagnosis of sickle cell β+Thalassemia (SCD crisis) was made and managed vigilantly by multidisciplinary approach and had full term vaginal delivery with good perinatal outcome and finally both mother and newborn were discharged in stable condition. This highlights the overall increase in maternal and fetal complications in pregnancy with sickle cell thalassemia. Thus health education, screening, early intervention with multidisciplinary approach and regular follow up prevents maternal morbidity and mortality.
Giant uterine cervical polyp: a case report
Authors: Guleria Sara , Thakur Suman , Pathania Kushla
Published: April 2023

Cervical polyps are benign growths, usually protruding from the surface of the cervical canal. Two out of three women with cervical polyps present asymptomatically. However, symptomatic women usually present with abnormal uterine bleeding, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, intermenstrual bleeding, or postmenopausal bleeding, as well as vaginal discharge. Giant cervical polyps often are misdiagnosed as malignant in view of their appearance, however most of them are benign in nature. They are also confused with uterine prolapse and uterine inversion. Proper evaluation and diagnosis should be provided so as to ensure complete care to the individual and adequate management.
Relationship between spontaneous excretion of lower ureter stones with stone size and serum level of C-reactive protein
Authors: Deldadeh-Moghaddam Hamid , Nasrollahi Sama
Published: April 2023

Background: According to the recent studies on patients with stones in the urinary system, the CRP serum levels can be useful in predicting the possibility of success in expectant treatment and spontaneous excretion of stone and thus, selecting the appropriate patient for this treatment approach; however the studies conducted in this field are inadequate and the results obtained are slightly contradictory. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between spontaneous excretion of lower ureter stones with stone size and serum level of C-reactive protein.
Methods: This cross-sectional study has been done on 95 patients with lower ureter stone during 2020-2021. Information including gender, age, body mass index, stone size, spontaneous excretion of stone, and CRP serum level were extracted from the files of patients. The existence of stone and its characteristics have been confirmed using ultrasound.
Results: The mean CRP serum level was 8.74±‏5.06 mg/l and the frequency of spontaneous stone excretion was 72.6% (n=69). CRP serum level was significantly lower in patients with spontaneous stone excretion (7.42 vs. 12.23 mg/l and p=0.001). The cut-off point of CRP serum level was 13.5 mg/l for patients with ureter stone size of 4-7 (with 84% sensitivity and 58% specificity) and for patients with ureter stone size of 7-10, it was 12.5 mg/l (with 83% sensitivity and 56% specificity).
Conclusions: The results showed that there is a significant relationship between the CRP serum levels, along with stone size with spontaneous excretion of lower ureter stones.
A cross sectional study on perceptions and promoting factors for eye donation among undergraduate medical students
Authors: Khatwani Priyanka , Raghunath Deepa , Sakalle Salil
Published: April 2023

Background: It is realized that voluntary corneal donation rate depends upon the level of awareness of various stakeholders in our society. the aim of the current study was to evaluate the characteristics that encourage eye donation among medical students.
Methods: This study was carried out using a pretested self-administered questionnaire, in the month of February 2022 among 350 undergraduate medical students of a medical college in central India. After classes ended, authors delivered questionnaires to students in the classrooms, explaining the nature and aim of the study and requesting them to participate in the study.
Results: 80% (280/350) of study subjects knew about eye donation. 54.8% (192/350) of study subjects were willing to donate their eyes. 89.1% knew that a big proportion of blindness is preventable. 98.6% of the study participants opined that vitamin A plays a significant role in preventing childhood blindness. three most important such factors as perceived by study participants were noble cause (44%, n=154), pleasure to support the blind people (36.3%, N=127) and inspiration from advertisement on TV by favorite actor (30%, N=105). 67.7% subjects said that blind religious beliefs are significant obstacle in eye donation.
Conclusions: Majority of students support active participation in the dissemination of knowledge, lack of awareness is the primary impediment to cornea donation. The course curriculum should include both fundamental eye care and other preventive and promotive elements of corneal blindness.
Contemporary image of nursing profession: an explorative study of Bihar state
Authors: . Dolly , Krishnaveni R. , Nair Rathish , Monica Merlin
Published: April 2023

Background: Nurses currently contributing more than half of the manpower in the health sector and play a significant role in it, that is why the health sector is largely dependent on them but still they are largely invisible among people and their capabilities are limited in the field of their work that under-represents them. It has also been observed that many people have positive perception towards image of nursing profession which has become widely evident during COVID-19. The study aimed to determine the college students’ perception towards the contemporary image of the nursing profession.
Methods: A quantitative research approach and descriptive cross-sectional research design were used. By adopting the purposive sampling technique, 420 college students were selected from the colleges and universities of Bihar. Data collected via online Based-Google form and analysed by using descriptive and inferential statistics.
Results: Out of 420 student participants, 97.4% have positive perception and 2.6% students have negative perception towards contemporary image of nursing profession. Most of the responses were in positive feedback such as, nurses are hardworking, knowledgeable, they are vital to health care delivery system whereas few were in contrary. There was a statistically significant association found between socio-demographic variables and perceived image of nursing profession as depicted in domiciliary (p= 0.010) and educational status of father (p= 0.058), at the p-value <0.05 (typically ≤0.05).
Conclusions: The study concluded that there is a positive perception among college students towards contemporary image of nursing profession.
Study to estimate impact of sudden lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic at the household level: findings of cross-sectional study in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Srinivas Vani , Murugan V.
Published: April 2023

Background: In response to contain the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in India, the entire country was declared to be under lockdown from the midnight of 24 March 2020. In this study, we determined the economic impact and availability of health services during sudden lockdown.
Methods: A cross sectional study was done in rural and urban health and training centres attached to rural medical college of Chengalpattu district of Tamil Nadu. Sample size was 424. Study participants were out patients, seeking health care services. Data was collected by trained medical social workers (MSW), using field tested semi-structured questionnaire. Percentages were calculated and for assessing difference between proportions, Pearson’s chi-square test was used as a test of significance.
Results: Out of 424 study participants, 223 (52.6%) were male and mean age of participants was 44 years. Socio economically, majority of them belonged to lower and lower middle-class families. 297 (70%) of households reported to have financial loss and 71.2% reported difference due to lockdown. In univariant analysis, the significant risk factors for difference in income were found to be type of house (0.029), loss of job (0.0001), loss of wages (0.0001), having bank loan (0.019) and issues in managing household expenses (0.0001), per capita income (0.008), farming business (0.018) and household with members having non-communicable diseases (0.013).
Conclusions: Lockdown has huge economic cost. Underprivileged households were economically impacted. Most of the essential health services were available and accessible to the household even during the strict lockdown.
Perceptions and practice of breast self-examination among adult women residing in rural South Karnataka
Authors: Komal Samantha Swaroop , Venkatakrishna Srividya
Published: April 2023

Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women and is the leading cause of death among women with 40-45 years old. The only way to manage this disease is early diagnosis through screening which helps in detecting breast cancer in 90% of women that it can be treated in about 90% of women. The best accessible and affordable way to screening is breast self-examination (BSE). The main objective of the study is to assess the awareness (knowledge, attitude and practice) regarding breast self-examination among women aged 30 years and above residing in a rural area.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2016 to January 2017 in villages under Ittamadu Primary Health Centre area, Ramnagara District.  A total of 600 women aged 30 years or above who gave written informed consent participated in the study. A semi structured questionnaire was administered by interview method. Descriptive statistics was used for analysis.
Results: This study revealed that the awareness regarding breast cancer among adult women aged 30 years and above was 4%. Majority of the study participants had poor knowledge regarding BSE, however they had favourable attitude towards BSE. With regard to practice of BSE, only 4% of the study participants practiced BSE.
Conclusions: Breast self-examination is one of the most appropriate, convenient and cost-effective method that can be done by every woman for early detection of breast cancer and all women after the age of 18 years should be trained to do BSE correctly and regularly by healthcare workers and doctors.
Tobacco, alcohol use and underlying comorbidities in symptomatic COVID-19 cases versus asymptomatic COVID-19 cases: a case control study in Mumbai city
Authors: Thaker Ayushi R. , Mall Anjali S. , Iyer Annapoorani V.
Published: April 2023

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 belonging to Corona virus family, was first reported in Wuhan, China in November 2019 which is an ongoing Pandemic. The apparent vulnerable group more susceptible to the symptomatic infection are the elderly population, tobacco and alcohol users and people having underlying comorbid conditions.
Methods: An unmatched case-control study was conducted in March 2021 through purposive sampling amongst the Covid-19 infected population. The socio-demographic details, use of tobacco, alcohol and underlying comorbid conditions were studied to show the association with symptomatic Covid-19 infection, in the population more than 18 years of age in Mumbai City.
Results: Out of the total 528 Covid-19 infected individuals, 38.8% were symptomatic and 61.2% were asymptomatic. The elderly population and the underlying comorbid conditions were not found to be associated with symptomatic Covid-19 infection. Alcohol consumption (OR 0.87 (95% CI -0.39, 1.92)), and both alcohol consumption and smoking (OR 0.94[95% CI 0.45, 1.97) association with symptomatic Covid-19 infection were found to be insignificant at 95% CI in the present study whereas significant negative association was observed in smoking (OR 0.21 (95% CI 0.08, 0.53)) with symptomatic covid-19 infection.
Conclusions: Covid-19, addiction and the non-communicable diseases together is a major public health concern in India. Since no significant association was found, study on other unknown factors like the genetics, race, ongoing treatment for underlying comorbid disease and other should be conducted to understand the actual risk factors of the novel disease.
Comparative evaluation of effectiveness of calibrated inter-dental brushes in maintaining oral hygiene and periodontal health: a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Hugar Shweta S. , Sureshbabu Abhirami , Misra Tanay , Kumbhojkar Vinayak
Published: April 2023

Background: Effective oral hygiene is a crucial factor in maintaining good oral health, which is associated with overall health and health-related quality of life. The control of biofilm is the common pillar of the prevention and control of periodontal disease. The interdental brush (IDB) currently represents the primary and most effective method available for interproximal cleaning compared with brushing alone or the combined use of tooth brushing and dental floss.
Methods: A total of 40 participants, with 10 each in control and test group, participated in the study. Clinical examination of gingival index, full mouth bleeding scores and plaque index were recorded supra gingival scaling was performed. Test group- interdental brushes were given and oral hygiene instructions were given through Touch-to Teach method (TOP). At 4 week and 6 week follow up oral hygiene instructions were repeated to respective groups. After 3 months, clinical examination was done and exit survey on patient-reported outcome measures was administered.
Results: Intergroup comparison of gingival index, plaque index and pocket probing depth showed statistically significant difference between test and control group.
Conclusions: Within the limitations of the study, we concluded that the appropriate use of interdental brushes along with effective oral hygiene maintenance using TOP permitted proper cleaning of the area with a significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis.
Incidence and probable risk factors of post COVID syndrome among COVID-19 patients in urban population of North Kerala: a 6 months cohort study
Authors: K. R. Deepa , Mohandas Bindu , Thayyil Jayakrishnan , Nair Meera S. , P. Rosh , Kumar Durgesh
Published: April 2023

Background: Post-COVID condition is an important health burden all over world. This study was conducted to determine incidence, symptoms and risk factors of post COVID syndrome.
Methods: Cohort study was done on COVID-19 patients of Mukkam Municipality tested from Mukkam Community Health Centre. Baseline data was collected using pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire by direct interview method after obtaining their consent. Subjects were followed up weekly for 6 months to know occurrence of post COVID syndrome, its course and outcome if any. Incidence and relative risk for age, gender, COVID-19 vaccination status, comorbidities and severity of COVID-19 illness were assessed for post COVID syndrome. Chi-square test was used for statistical association between severity of COVID-19 and occurrence of post COVID syndrome.
Results: Among 800 persons tested for COVID-19, 28.75% were tested positive. Incidence of post COVID syndrome among study subjects was 42.2%. Relative risk for post COVID was high among participants having age more than 60 years (RR-1.76), females (RR-1.07), with comorbidities like diabetes (RR-1.28), hypertension (RR-1.06) and cardiac illness (RR-1.05), unvaccinated status (RR-1.21) and in severe COVID-19 infection (1.20). There is a significant statistical association between occurrence of post COVID syndrome and degree of severity of COVID-19 disease (p=0.0046).
Conclusions: Post-COVID syndrome was found more often in older people who had severe COVID-19 illness, also incidence increases with severe COVID-19 illness.
Barriers and facilitators to seeking care for persons with acute brain infections: a cross sectional study
Authors: Nair Vasundharaa S. , Thomas Priya Treesa , Sekar Kasi , Netravathi M.
Published: April 2023

Background: Acute brain infections including encephalitis are less common but serious conditions characterized by the inflammation of the brain requiring immediate accurate diagnosis and management. For many infections appropriate therapies exist, but the outcome is often less desirable because of failure to receive appropriate treatment on time due to multiple factors. The aim of the study was to understand the barriers and facilitators towards receiving care for persons with acute brain infections in a low resource setting.   
Methods: The study design was cross sectional exploratory study. Consecutive patients presenting to neurology department of a tertiary referral care center for Neuropsychiatry in South India from July 2020 to September 2020 with the diagnosis of acute brain infections were assessed using the modified Kuppuswamy scale, Glasgow coma scale, the pathway scale: encounter form, patient centered health services in India and client socio-demographic and service receipt inventory.
Results: A total of 110 participants, both male and female, were recruited for the study. The average age was 39.64±16.5 years, with more female (65.45%) representation. 29% of individuals reported continued use of traditional practices while seeking care for the brain infections. Costs associated with care increased with the increase in duration of infection.  There are major barriers and facilitators which either prohibit or facilitate care for persons with acute brain infections.  
Conclusions: Acute brain infections continuing to be a public health challenge in developing country context, and the recognition that the delay in treatment causes significant disability, it becomes imperative to focus on the social, cultural, economic, environmental factors to understand the barriers and facilitators to health seeking among this population.
Burden of stigma among tuberculosis patients: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kallepalli Swarna S. K. , Garapati Sridevi , Bhimarasetty Devimadhavi , Pethala Sujatha
Published: April 2023

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a significant public health problem in populous countries like India. Despite having effective treatment, social stigma still exists and it manifest as social exclusion (enacted stigma) or perception of it (felt stigma). The main causes of stigma are fear of TB and the terrible effects the disease will have on affected people and their family’s health, finances, personal lives, and social standing. Delay in diagnosis and treatment are brought on by stigma, resulting in adverse treatment outcomes and thus prevent TB from being eliminated. The objectives of the study were to (a) estimate the burden of stigma experienced by tuberculosis patients; and (b) identify the factors associated with stigma.
Methods: A cross-sectional analytical observational study was carried out among 100 TB patients above 18 years of age in the months of September - November 2022. Multistage random sampling was used to select the study participants from different peripheral health institutes. Data was collected using predesigned, pretested proforma from explanatory model interview catalogue developed by WHO. Data was collected after obtaining informed consent and analysed by using SPSS 21.
Results: Majority of patients (59%) perceived stigma. Many (73%) revealed that they desire to keep others from knowing about their condition, felt that others would think less of patient’s family (66%) and avoided them (69%) due to disease.
Conclusions: Patients with TB still experience greater stigma at home, among friends, and at work. Sensitization of family and awareness among the public is essential to combat stigma.
Health status and health seeking behaviour in transgenders in Kakinada: a community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Veesam Anantha Prakash , Bhimarasetty Devi Madhavi , Vasireddy Suhasini
Published: April 2023

Background: Transgender (TG) is a term used to define individuals with a gender identity that is incongruent with the gender identity accorded to them at birth. Over the last two decades, health research on TGs has focused mainly on their sexual practices, leading to lack of information on their health problems and healthcare-seeking behaviour beyond STDs /HIV. The current study aimed to gain insight into the health status of TGs.
Methods: A community based cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in transgenders living in an urban area from December 2022 to January 2023 with a sample size of 160. Snowball sampling technique was used till the sample size was achieved. Data was collected using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was entered and analysed in MS Excel with descriptive statistics.
Results: Majority of the study subjects belonged to 20-30 years of age. 43% were illiterates, 87% were living in rented houses. 89% screened for HIV in last 6 months, 57% underwent gender reassignment surgery. All study subjects gave history of suffering from STIs at least once, 11.9% were experienced STDs in past 1 year. 6.9% were tested positive for HIV and were on regular ART. 23.1% were diagnosed with anyone of NCD. First point care is contacting outreach worker in 58.8% of TGs.
Conclusions: A more receptive attitude from the entire healthcare system is essential for improving the health status of this community. The inclusiveness promoted by universal health coverage will help each of these people's health statuses improve.
Association of hypertension with consumption of energy drinks in an adolescent male
Authors: . Kanuja , Pathak Vineet Kumar , Chamola Sunil Kumar
Published: April 2023

Use of energy drinks has dramatically increased in recent times. Athletes, teenagers and students being the most common population who consume it. Users believe that they are a source of instant energy but are unaware of its high Caffeine content resulting in severe adverse effects on health. We reported the case of a young boy who presented with palpitations and high blood pressure after a recent start of energy drink consumption. He had been consuming ‘monster’ energy drink on regular basis as his annual sports meet was round the corner and he had to practise for hours for an upcoming football match. His medical examination revealed Sinus tachycardia and high blood pressure on more than 3 occasions. Rest of the physical examination and lab workup was within normal limits. His pulse and blood pressure returned to normal range after discontinuing ‘monster’ energy drink usage and he was counselled on adverse effects of such products. Several studies have reported numerous health hazards including cardiac effects associated with energy drinks. Labels should be made on these drinks and Caffeine content should be mentioned along with adverse effects on health. Caution for use in children and pregnant or expecting patients should also be mentioned.
Functional assessment of bipolar hemiarthroplasty versus total hip replacement in trans cervical neck fracture of femur in elderly patients a prospective observational study
Authors: S. Subith , Abhijit Charthal  , Shubham Dakhode  , Ketan Naik
Published: April 2023

Background: Bipolar hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty are widely accepted methods of treatment for displaced femoral neck fracture in elderly patients. This study is to compare the functional outcomes of bipolar hemiarthroplasty and total hip arthroplasty in such patients.
Methods: This is a prospective study in which data of all patients with age more than 60 with trans cervical neck of femur fracture undergoing total hip arthroplasty and bipolar hemiarthroplasty in a tertiary care centre in Mumbai is studied. They were followed up and compared with the Modified Harris Hip Score. The results were compared between the two groups for statistical significance.
Results: There was a significant difference seen in pain and gait at 6 and 12 months between two groups with better scores in the total hip arthroplasty group. Better functional activities were seen at 3 and 6 months in the total hip arthroplasty group. A significant difference was seen in the Total Modified Harris Hip Score at 3, 6 and 12 months and was better in the total hip arthroplasty group as compared to the hemiarthroplasty group.
Conclusions: Bipolar hemiarthroplasty is the preferred approach after a displaced femoral neck fracture in the elderly population, but due to potential complications like inguinal pain and low functional outcome, total hip replacement should be considered as the first line of surgical management for the neck of femur fracture in such patients. It has been found to have a good functional outcome, fewer gait disturbances and less post-operative pain.