bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxant activity of aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) roots in albino mice
Authors: Panigrahy Sarita
Published: December 2018

Background: Skeletal muscle relaxants are used to treat both muscle spasm and spasticity, acting both as antispasmodic and antispasticity agents. In past studies some polyherbal formulations containing ashwagandha have shown skeletal muscle relaxant activity and fat extract of ashwagandha showed skeletal muscle relaxant activity in experimental animal models. This study is designed to evaluate the skeletal muscle relaxant activity of aqueous extract of Withania somnifera (ashwagandha) roots in albino mice, as the literature regarding them is limited.Methods: Standard drug (diazepam) and different doses of Aqueous extract of ashwagandha (50, 100,150mg/kg) were given orally to albino mice. Skeletal muscle relaxant activity was assessed by Rota-rod apparatus. The fall off time from the rotating rod was noted for each group after 1 hour of drug administration. The difference in fall off time from the rotating rod between the standard and treated mice was taken as an index of muscle relaxation.Results: The test extract at doses (50mg/kg, 100mg/kg and 150mg/kg) showed highly significant reduction in the time spent by the animals on revolving rod in rota rod test when compared to baseline (p <0.0001). As compared with diazepam, aqueous extract (150mg/kg) showed almost equal reduction in the time spent by the animals on revolving rod in rota rod test.Conclusions: This study indicates that the aqueous extract of ashwagandha possess central skeletal muscle relaxant activity. The results are promising for further investigation of efficient skeletal muscle relaxant activity.
Prospective observational study for appropriateness of blood and blood components therapy in children up to 16 years of age admitted in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Hegade Vinayaka P. , Rao Anjana H.
Published: December 2018

Background: Blood component therapy is a rational replacement therapy of proven clinical value and efficacy, but it is a double-edged sword as it is associated with many hazards of transfusion reaction. Because of ease of availability and gap in the knowledge of medical professional’s blood products are being used very liberally leading to huge mismatch in the demand and supply of life saving blood product.Methods: Prospective cross-sectional observational study was done over a period of 1 year in a tertiary hospital, in western part of India. 225 events of blood component therapy were studied in neonates (<1month) and pediatric (1month-16years) age groups. Indications and reactions to blood components therapy were studied in both the groups. Each component therapy was considered as one event and its indication was compared with standard guidelines for terming it as appropriate or inappropriate.Results: Out of total 225 events of transfusions, most commonly used was PRBC (48.9%) followed by FFP (24.9%), platelet (16.0%), IVIG (9.8%) and whole blood (0.4%).  Authors found that overall 17.3% of the component therapy  were inappropriate( neonates 10.2%  and 7.1% in the rest). Most commonly misused blood product was FFP (37.5%) followed by IVIG (22.7%), platelets (16.7%) and PRBC (6.4%).Conclusions: Regular audit of blood and its component usage is essential to assess the blood utilization pattern and set ideal policies in all the medical specialties to make it appropriate, ensure availability and save patients from its hazards.
Comparison of diagnostic and prognostic value of serum procalcitonin and serum lactate in pediatric sepsis
Authors: Jerry Antony Leo , S. Sundari , S. Alph Shirley , Ramesh Shanthi , R. Shiji
Published: December 2018

Background: The clinical manifestations of sepsis are highly variable. The signs of both infection and organ dysfunction may be subtle, and thus the most recent international consensus guidelines provide a long list of warning signs of incipient sepsis. Lactic acid, which is a by-product of anaerobic metabolism, can be used as a marker of tissue hypoperfusion. It is being used widely. Procalcitonin has more recently been studied in children.Methods: Totally 60 Children admitted with Septic Shock in PICU between Ages 3 Months to 12 Years were assessed for Serum Lactate & Serum Procalcitonin levels. Evaluation of the biomarkers was done on individual and combinational basis using receiver operating characteristics curve.Results: Out of 60 children, male were 40, female were 20 children. In stage-1 serum lactate  level was 47.83 (mg/dl) sensitivity is about 35.63 and specificity was 63.82  off p-value <0.065**.In stage -2 serum procalcitonin was 49.62 (mg/dl) sensitivity is about 37.77 and specificity was 69.28  off p-value <0.549**.In stage -3 serum procalcitonin was 52.89 (mg/dl) sensitivity is about 41.63 and specificity was 73.89  off p-value <0.651**Conclusions: Early recognition of risk factors will help in timely appropriate therapy and thereby will help in reducing mortality and morbidity in pediatric septic shock. The results suggest that PCT is valid for auxiliary diagnosis of septic conditions in children and used as an indicator of the severity of patients.
Thrombocytopenia in children: a clinico-etiological profile in an urban tertiary care hospital
Authors: V. Subramanian , K. Santosh Kumar
Published: December 2018

Background: Thrombocytopenia is a common haematological finding that we come across while managing a sick child. Etiological profile and presentation of thrombocytopenia varies among children. The objective of this study was to study the clinical and laboratory profile of children with thrombocytopenia, associated clinical complications and assess the relationship between platelet levels and severity of disease.Methods: The study was carried out in 644 children between 1 month and 12 years, admitted in Paediatric Department of Raja Rajeshwari medical college and hospital, Bangalore between August 2012 to August 2014.Results: The commonest causes of thrombocytopenia in our study were of infectious aetiology (86.6%). Among Infections Viral infections were the major cause in more than 78% of cases. Other causes included haematological problems, drug induced thrombocytopenia and connective tissue disorders. Bleeding manifestations were present in 33.07% of patients and the commonest bleeds were skin and mucous membranes. Bleeding manifestations were seen most commonly in children with a platelet count less than 50000/µl.Conclusions: Viral Infections were the commonest cause for thrombocytopenia in Children. Platelet count was neither predictive of bleeding manifestations nor predictive of need for platelet transfusion.
Prediction of gestational age of newborn by measurement of foot length at birth
Authors: K. Senthilkumar , R. Senthilprabhu , B. Mythili , Zacharias Ann Mary
Published: December 2018

Background: Gestational age of the newborn can be assessed by various methods. Aim of this study was to estimate the gestational age using foot length of the neonate and to find the correlation between foot length and gestational age assessed by last menstrual period and first trimester ultrasound.Methods: It was a hospital based prospective cross-sectional study done at Newborn ward, Department of Pediatrics, MGM Govt. hospital attached to KAP Viswanatham Govt. Medical College, Tiruchirappalli, involving 170 newborns with 10 babies in each gestational age ranging from 26 weeks to 42 weeks. Gestational age of all babies were assessed using last menstrual period, first trimester ultrasound and New Ballard Score soon after birth. Right foot length of each baby was measured from heel to tip of great toe or second toe whichever was longer, within 12-24 hours of life. Measurements were taken using a plastic ruler, measuring tape and by measuring the length of foot print ink impression.  Gestational age obtained by various methods were assessed for their correlation with foot length.Results: Positive correlation was obtained between foot length and gestational age determined by LMP (r= 0.965) and ultrasound (r= 0.964). Hence foot length could be reliably used to predict gestational age of newborn.Conclusions: Foot length measurements can be used as a non-invasive alternative method to assess gestational age of newborn, especially by community health workers and thus can facilitate the early identification of preterm babies.
Complementary feeding practice in infants of 6-12 months: a study from tertiary care centre of eastern Nepal
Authors: Yadav Shankar Prasad , Chamlagain Anita , Dhakal Sneha , Shah Gauri Shankar
Published: December 2018

Background: Initial years of life are crucial for child growth and development.  Breast feeding for first six months of life, followed by adequate complimentary feeding is necessary for preventing malnutrition and its complication in children. This study accessed the complementary feeding practice and the time of initiation of complementary feeding among infants.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted for 3 weeks, among 92 infants. Details of feeding practice were taken from the parents from semi-structured questionnaire and nutritional status was evaluated by anthropometric assessment tools.Results: Ninety-two mothers were interviewed, and their corresponding infants were evaluated. The mean age of infant was 8.8 months with equal proportion of male and female. The mean age of mother interviewed was 26.6 yrs. 59.8% had timely initiation of complimentary feeding. Timely complimentary feeding was directly related to maternal literacy where literate mother follows the practices of appropriate complimentary feeding (p<0.007). There was significant association between ethnicity and timely initiation of complimentary feeding practices. 78.2 % babies who had timely initiation were of higher ethnicity. Overall in our cohort 18.4% were stunted, 14.1% were wasted. The stunted and wasted child were significantly more in whom there was absence of timely initiation of complimentary feeding (p<0.05).Conclusions: Proper complimentary feeding is still lagging in our society, proper parental education and nutritional counselling will be required to prevent under nutrition in infants.
Leave against medical advice from SNCU of a teaching hospital in Garhwal, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Kumar Rakesh
Published: December 2018

Background: Patients who leave against medical advice (LAMA) is a universal problem. Neonates being unable to decide for their own, are dependent on parents for all decisions for their treatment. LAMA is a sensitive issue in neonatology practice with ethical and medico legal ramifications. This study was done to evaluate the factors associated with the decision of LAMA by care givers in our special newborn care unit (SNCU).Methods: This is a retrospective hospital based observational study and was conducted in SNCU of HNB Base Teaching Hospital, Srinagar, Garhwal. Data pertaining to LAMA between 1st August 2017 and 31st July 2018 was retrieved. Information obtained included place of birth, gestational age, weight, diagnoses, duration of hospital stay and reasons for LAMA. Data were entered into a Microsoft Excel Spread Sheet and analyzed using software. Graph Pad Prism v 7.04. Chi-Square test was used to test for significant difference among various groups.Results: Out of 689 neonates admitted in SNCU during the study period, 167 (24.24%) took LAMA. Male to female ratio of 1:1.1. 102 (61%) were inborn and 65 (39%) were out born. Term babies constituted 62.87%. 78.44% neonates were discharged within 7 days of admission. 58 (34.73%) neonates had sepsis and 30 (17.96%) had birth asphyxia. The commonest reason in 25.15% for taking LAMA was to take the neonate to better equipped facility followed by false perception that the baby is well enough to be discharged.Conclusions: Multiple factors contribute for getting a neonate discharged against medical advice. Improvement of infrastructure, training of health care staff for proper counselling, sensitivity and empathy towards neonate and the care givers can decrease the rate of LAMA.
Assessment of epidemiological profile of neonatal seizure cases admitted to a tertiary health center of Odisha, India: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Sethy Geetanjali , Jena Dhaneswari , Mallik Pullakranjan , Patro Sithun Kumar , Mishra Biswakalyan
Published: December 2018

Background: Neonatal seizures are common manifestations of neurologic dysfunction in newborns. The incidence of  seizures in neonatal period is higher than any other period of life. It is one of the common causes of admission to special newborn care unit. Therefore, it has been decided to assess the epidemiological profile of neonatal seizure.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from January2017 to June 2018, in the SNCU of MKCG Medical College and Hospital, Berhampur. A total of 300 neonates admitted to SNCU with clinically apparent seizure were the study population and convenient sampling method was used for selecting them. The approval was taken from IEC MKCG Medical College to carry out the study. The data was collected by using a pretested proforma from parents and hospital records. Verbal informed consent was taken from parents. The data so collected was analysed in the department of Pediatrics.Results: Out of the total 300 babies, 66% were males, 61.34% were early neonates,77% babies were of primi  mothers,76% of babies were outborn . 62.12% of babies were born by vaginal route. HIE was most common (88%) cause of seizure. Out of the all seizure types, subtle seizure was most common (87.67%), followed by clonic seizure (35.67%). Various maternal risk factors were present in 81.81 % of cases. Most common risk factor was anemia (50.57%).18.93% of cases were born with  history of obstructed labor/prolonged labor. Overall mortality was 8%.Conclusions: Neonatal seizures are important causes of morbidity and mortality in newborns. Prevention of HIE and maternal risk factors along with early use of an effective drug with minimum side effects are the ways to overcome this problem.
Non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma in a neonate, a rare and aggressive disease: case report
Authors: Khanna Tanvi , Das Kunal , Kalra B. P.
Published: December 2018

Neonatal soft tissue sarcomas are a rare group of tumors. The behavior and aggressiveness of neonatal STS is variable. Surgical excision has been noted to be most important factor affecting outcome. However, when non-mutilating surgery is not possible, or resection is incomplete, chemotherapy and radiotherapy have been tried with variable success. We encountered a case of a neonate having large soft tissue mass at anterior abdominal wall. Biopsy and immunohistochemistry confirmed it as undifferentiated soft tissue sarcoma. Surgical excision was incomplete with margin positivity. His disease showed recurrence in short duration of time and despite adjuvant chemotherapy, progression was noted. The child abandoned the treatment and died within 3 months of life.
Type IV jejunal atresia in a newborn: a rare birth defect presenting with bilious vomiting
Authors: Kaur Pushwinder
Published: December 2018

Background: Type IV jejunal atresia is a rare birth defect, which occurs due to late intrauterine vascular accidents that results in complete obstruction of intestinal lumen. There is no genetic predilection. It occurs most commonly in proximal jejunum. Clinical presentation includes bilious vomiting, abdominal distension, feeding difficulties, failure to pass stools and/or absence of bowel movements after birth. Here author report a case of premature newborn, who was admitted in NICU at birth in view of prematurity. As the baby had bilious vomiting and bilious NG aspirate on day 3 of life, possibility of intestinal obstruction was kept. It was diagnosed as a case of jejunal atresia by abdominal radiograph displaying dilated stomach, duodenum and proximal jejunum with gasless abdomen. Further jejunal atresia confirmed by the upper GI study exhibiting the level of obstruction. Surgical resection of the atretic segment and primary anastomosis was done. This case emphasizes the need of rapid identification of jejunal atresia and its adequate management to prevent morbidity and mortality associated with fore shortened intestine.
The world of synbiotics: a review of literature and clinical evidence in diarrhoea from the lens of a paediatrician
Authors: Jog Pramod
Published: December 2018

The use of synbiotics in the management of acute diarrhoea in children is becoming a common practice in India. However, since this is an upcoming modality of treatment, it is essential to review the scientific rationale and evidence on clinical efficacy and safety in the context of paediatric diarrhoea. In addition, most synbiotics contain a combination of multiple probiotics along with a prebiotic. Thus arises, a parallel need to understand whether a combination of probiotics performs better than single probiotics, hence justifying the rationale for such combinations. A review of available evidence suggests that synbiotics are indeed safe and superior in efficacy to single probiotics (like Bacillus clausii, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG etc) and that there is a good body of evidence to support the efficacy and tolerability of synbiotics in the management of paediatric acute gastroenteritis. There is also evidence to suggest that combination probiotics have superior benefits compared to single probiotics, thus justifying their use as part of synbiotics. The overall benefits of synbiotics reported in various clinical trials on paediatric diarrhoea include, a rapid normalization of the gastrointestinal flora, a reduction in the duration of diarrhoea, quicker improvement in stool consistency, lesser administration of additional medications like antibiotics, antiemetics and antipyretics, higher physician reported treatment satisfaction scores and enhanced overall efficacy against gastrointestinal pathogens, including diarrhoea of rota virus origin. Hence, synbiotics put up a strong case to look beyond probiotics and single probiotic formulations in paediatric diarrhoea.
Posterior segment eye diseases in Ijebu, Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Bogunjoko Tayo Julius , Hassan Adekunle O. , Ogunro Adunola , Akanbi Toyin , Abudu Bidemi
Published: December 2018

Background: To review cases of posterior segment eye diseases (PSEDs) seen at the Eye Foundation Centre Ijebu, Nigeria in a 5 year period for planning purposes.Methods: Data was collected from patients’ case notes from January 2006 to December 2011. A systematic sampling of 468 patients from 1173 case notes of patient with (PSEDs) was done. Information retrieved was: age, sex, state of residence and diagnosis. All patients were examined by the glaucoma and the vitroretinal specialist as the case may be. They had visual acuity, refraction, slit lamp examination (including intraocular pressure (IOP) with Goldman applanation tonometer), and dilated fundoscopy with (bilateral indirect ophthalmoscopy) BIO, slit lamp using 20 D, 78 D and 90 D respectively. The glaucoma patients in addition had central visual field (CVF), Central cornea thickness (CCT), fundus photograph and in some cases optical coherence tomography (OCT) done in addition to the above.Results: The mean age was 59.98 years (SD 17.67) and the age range is 5-95 years. Males outnumbered females by 63% to 37%. The diseases were more common in age group 61 to 80. Patients’ attendances were mostly from Ijebu division of Ogun state (57%). Glaucoma is the commonest cause of attendance 262 (56%) followed by diabetic retinopathy 29 (6.2%) and age-related macular degeneration (ARMD) 28 (6.0%).Conclusions: Glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and ARMD were noted as the commonest PSEDs in Ijebu division in Southwestern Nigeria.
Diabetic foot self-care: awareness and practice among type 2 diabetic patients in primary healthcare centers, Dubai Health Authority
Authors: Mehmood Maira K. , Parkar Almas Z. , Mustafa Nayab T. , Mustafa Sarah S. , Makin Momina A. , Alawadi Fatheya , Farghaly Samia
Published: December 2018

Background: Diabetic foot disease is the most common complication of diabetes mellitus. With appropriate management, approximately 49-85% of diabetic foot complications can be prevented. This study was carried out due to lack of population-based studies on foot self-care in the U.A.E. The aim of this study is to assess the awareness and practice of foot self-care in patients with type 2 diabetes and study the factors affecting foot self-care.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst patients of type-2 diabetes attending the diabetic clinics in primary healthcare centers under Dubai Health Authority. 488 participants were interviewed on a pre-tested structured questionnaire. The cumulative score of awareness and practice was classified into poor (<50 percentile), average (50-75 percentile) and good (>75 percentile).Results: 47% participants had an overall poor awareness and 46% had an overall poor practice of foot self-care. Compliance of medications to avoid complications had the highest awareness (83%) and practice (91%). Avoiding moisturizing between toes had the least awareness (40%) and practice (38%). Awareness was better in 59% of UAE nationals and 74% of postgraduates. Practice was better in 60% of males and 73% of participants with uncontrolled HbA1c. Participants who received prior information had better awareness (55%). Participants receiving information from Dubai Diabetes Centre (DDC) had better awareness (66%) and practice of foot self-care (66%).Conclusions: Almost half of the diabetic patients attending primary healthcare centers in Dubai have limited awareness and practice regarding diabetic foot self-care.
Breastfeeding and infant/young child feeding in Nepal
Authors: Shah Sunil , Augusto R. Simoes Jose
Published: December 2018

Background: Under nutrition being a major problem in Nepal, it is necessary to meet the minimum dietary standard which is essential for growth and development of young children, so promotion of infant and young child feeding practices among children is important intervention.Methods: A descriptive, cross sectional study was conducted among mothers of children of Bardia and Kailali districts of under 2 years and data was collected using the pre-tested questionnaire.Results: The study shows 30.3 percent of the mothers initiated breastfeeding within an hour of birth, 47.9 percent gave colostrums, 25.5 percent were practicing exclusive breastfeeding at 6 or more months,60 percent mothers fed anything else as prelacteal feed before breast feeding, 60 percent of mothers started complementary feeding between 3-6 months, 47.9 percent of mothers used anything from a bottle with a nipple yesterday or last night, 74.8 percent of mothers were currently breast feeding their children, 58 percent used iodized salt and 70.05 percent revealed that their child received Vit A within last six months.Conclusions: The present study showed that late initiation of breast feeding and practice of prelacteal feeds among home delivered mothers being high. The frequency of complementary feeding ranged was less and early/late weaning are still widely prevalent, use of bottle feeding is high, use of iodized salt is still low. There is a need to educate the mothers regarding proper infant/child feeding practices.
Perceived level of return to functional abilities of mothers six weeks after childbirth in the teaching hospital Enugu
Authors: Nwaneri Ada C. , Osuala Eunice O. , Eze Catherine C. , Ezenwuba Clementina O.
Published: December 2018

Background: Functional status of mothers after delivery has implications for maternal and child health (MCH). The study is aimed at determining the perceived level of return to functional status of mothers attending post partum clinic, after six weeks of childbirth at the teaching hospitals in Enugu. Information gathered would help in designing programmes for improved MCH.Methods: Descriptive survey design was adopted for the study. Data was collected using (IFSAC)-36 self rated items that was validated by experts in the field. Descriptive and inferential statistical analysis was done and findings presented in graphs and tables.Results: Return of mothers to their functional abilities after six weeks of childbirth was good though in some aspects of functional ability it was low. 260 (73.9%) had a high level of return to infant care while 238 (67.68%), 218 (61.9%) and 159 (45.2%) had a low level of resumption to occupational, personal life, social and community activities respectively. There was a significant difference in the level of attainment of functional status of mothers attending past partum clinic with an F-value of 340.75
0.05).Conclusions: Majority of mothers attending post partum clinic returned to functional status after six weeks of childbirth. Awareness on the importance of post partum clinic attendance need to be intensified for improved MCH as maternal and infant morbidity and mortality rate is high in Nigeria.
The role sanitation to stunting children age 6-35 months, Purwojati subdistrict, Banyumas district, Central Java, Indonesia
Authors: Wiyono Sugeng , Burhani Annas , Harjatmo Titus Priyo , Astuti Trina , Zulfianto Nils Aria , . Tugiman , Putri Muthia Sulistiantu
Published: December 2018

Background: Stunting toddlers describe the existence of chronic nutritional problems, influenced by prospective maternal, fetal period, and toddler age, including illnesses during infancy. Children who stunted impact not only on intelligence, productivity and future performance after adulthood.Methods: The study in 10 villages in Purwojati Subdistric, Banyumas district, Central Java, Indonesia in 2017. The cross-sectional study design with population is households that have children aged 6-35 months. A sample of 348 children aged 6-35 months was taken by the cluster whit design effect of 2.Results: Respondents consisted of 52.3% boys, 45.4% aged 12-23 months. Most of the energy, protein, fat and carbohydrate intake is more than 80% of the recommended dietary allowance and a small proportion of children suffer from measles, Acute Respiratory Infection and diarrhoea. For sanitation 68.4% of the houses are in the poor, poor waste management is 92%, non-plumbing sources 68.9%, dirty latrine 19.3% and the latrine was not cleaned is 92.2%. There was no average difference in z-score H/A based on nutrient intake, house status, waste management and water sources, but there were significant differences (p=0.032) on average z-score H/A based on cleaning the latrine. There was no average difference in z-score H/A based on nutrient intake, house status, waste management, and water sources, but there were significant (p=0.032) on average z-score H/A based on cleaning the latrine.Conclusions: Sanitation is related to height, there were significant differences on average z-score H/A based on cleaning latrine.
The correlation between contact history and knowledge with incidence of leprosy in Jeneponto district, South Sulawesi, Indonesia
Authors: Sapriadi S. , Wanci Risman , . Syahridha
Published: December 2018

Background: Leprosy is one of neglected tropical diseases, which is caused by Mycobacterium leprae. This disease attacks especially on the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes. This study aims to analyze the influence of contact history and knowledge on the incidence of leprosy in Jeneponto district.Methods: This study used observational descriptive research with a case control approach. This research was conducted in the work area of the Health Office in Jeneponto district from January to June 2018. A total of 31 leprosy patients and 31 non lepers were sampled in this study. Statistical analysis of Chi square test was used to determine the relationship between contact history and knowledge with the incidence of leprosy.Results: The results showed that there was a significant relationship between contact history with the incidence of leprosy (p=0.001<0.05). But knowledge did not have a significant relationship with the incidence of leprosy, (p=0.203> 0.05).Conclusions: Contact history is a predictive factor for leprosy in Jeneponto. It is expected that the population who has contact with leprosy patients to pay attention to other things that can increase the risk of leprosy.
A cross sectional study on psychological status among patients with diabetes mellitus in Kancheepuram district
Authors: Surya B. , Loganathan S. , Ravivarman G.
Published: December 2018

Background: Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. Psychiatric problems are common in diabetes mellitus and nearly 33% suffer from mental disorders. According to the NHS people with diabetes are twice as likely to suffer with depression. The aim and objective of the study was to assess the psychological status in patients with diabetes mellitus.Methods: The sample of 100 participants was involved in the study. The patients with diabetes mellitus are included in the study but with known psychiatric disturbances were excluded from the study Standardized questionnaire was used for assessment. The collected data entered in MS-Excel and the analysis done using the SPSS.Results: Depression is the most common emotional disturbance among the female participants with diabetes while anxiety is common among the male subjects, prior with 58.2% and later with 54.5%. The emotional status of diabetic patient and their religion have a significant association with p-value 0.02.Conclusions: Emotional disturbances are common among the diabetic patients and the study revealed depression is common among the female participants where as anxiety is the common psychiatric problem among males.
Study of knowledge attitude and practice amongst interns, residents and para-medical staff regarding transmission and prevention of hepatitis-B of C. U. Shah Medical College and Hospital, Surendranagar
Authors: Dineshbhai Chaudhari Gopi , Jitendrabhai Joshi Karshit , Girija P. Kartha , Chaudhari Nirmal P.
Published: December 2018

Background: Hepatitis B is global infectious diseases with estimated two billions of the world population have contracted the infection, of them there are 350 million with chronic infection. Hepatitis B disease may lead to state of chronic carrier, liver cirrhosis and failure or hepatocellular carcinoma.Methods: This was a cross-sectional study which involved 100 intern, 100 resident doctors, and 100 paramedical staff; data collection was performed by a suitable self-administered, close-ended questionnaire.Results: Medical staff members had better knowledge about hepatitis B than the paramedical staff in the study. More than 50% of the paramedical staff didn’t know the correct mode of hepatitis b transmission. Attitude towards vaccination was seen significantly high in interns and resident doctors, as more than 88% had taken hepatitis b vaccine as compared to only 57% from paramedical staff had taken vaccine. Only 55% of paramedical staff had strictly followed universal precautions which was statistically significant in medical and paramedical staff.Conclusions: This study highlights the dissimilarities in knowledge, attitude as well as practices amongst different categories of healthcare personnel regarding hepatitis B infection. The most distressing situation was of paramedical staff that was at the lowest strata in terms of both knowledge and practices and therefore was at highest risk of hepatitis B infection.
A study to assess the knowledge and practices regarding WASH among school children in selected school, Mangalagiri, Guntur district, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Gomathi S. , Samitha P. C. , Kanaka Nishanth B. , Praveen Kumar N. , Sireesha K.
Published: December 2018

Background: ‘WASH’ is an acronym that stands for water, sanitation and hygiene and several interrelated public health issues that are of particular interest to international development and is the focus of SDP goal-6. WASH in schools aims to improve the health and learning performance of School-aged children and by extension that of their families, by reducing the incidence of water and sanitation related diseases. The present study was undertaken to assess the knowledge and practices regarding WASH among school children.Methods: A descriptive design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted at Zilla parishath Higher Secondary school with 150 participants selected using purposive sampling technique. Knowledge and practices of WASH were assessed using a structured questionnaire and checklist respectively.Results: The results showed that majority of them 125 (83.33%) had inadequate knowledge and 25 (16.6%) had a moderately adequate knowledge, while 21 (14%) were found to have adequate practices, 81 (54%) had a moderately adequate practices and 48 (32%) were found to have inadequate practices. It was found that there was no significant association between the knowledge and the selected demographic variables and a negative correlation was found between knowledge and practices.Conclusions: The findings revealed that, most of the school children had inadequate knowledge and a moderately adequate practice which indicates a need to impart knowledge and motivate the children regarding WASH to maximize the health and educational outcomes.
Effects of video game on socio- behavioral environment
Authors: Shirley P. , Arumugam Balaji , Suganya E. , Gowthamraj M.
Published: December 2018

Background: Nowadays the teens playing outdoor games are difficult to be seen and of course, they play all these games not in reality but in a screen using video games. The biggest revolution in electronic world has put our teens more addicted towards video games which not only affect their academic performance but also have impact on their behaviour and health. The objectives of the study were to assess the pattern of video game usage among the study population; to determine the influence of video game in behaviour of the study population.Methods: The study was conducted as a cross sectional study during January and February 2018, among medical students of tertiary care hospital, Chennai. The data was collected using preformed pretested questionnaire. Data were analyzed using SPSS 21.Results: Out of 211 study participants, majority 168 (80%) were males. Around, 97 (45.9%) participants, liked to play during night hours and most 114 (54.1%) of them preferred adventure and racing games. The change in behavioral patterns like, skipping sleep 20 (25.3%), using bad words 22 (27.8%), betting 40 (50.6%), risky stunts 38 (48.1%) were observed. Around half of the participants 97 (46%) were giving complaints of various health problems like finger pain, 72 (34.1%) wrist pain, 63 (29.8%) neck pain, and 54 (26%) eye pain due to usage of video games.Conclusions: The behavioral patterns explored in this study are alarming which suggest that this age group has to be sensitized on the self control to use the video games.
Assessment of out-of–pocket health expenditure and prevalence of protective mechanisms against it among the households in an urban area, Bangalore: a longitudinal study
Authors: Swetha N. B. , . Shobha , Sriram S.
Published: December 2018

Background: Achieving Universal Health Coverage according to The World Health Assembly’s way to reinforce the principle of human right to health in 2005 has been a huge task for India. India has one of the highest proportions of household out-of-pocket expenditures on health in the world, estimated at 71.1% in 2008–09. The unpredictable payments are impoverishing an estimated 3.3% of India's population every year. In this regard various strategies have been adopted such as—reforming tax based health financing or introducing health insurance. This highlights the need for alternative finances which includes the provision of medical insurance. The study was conducted to assess the out-of-pocket health expenditure and estimate the prevalence of protective mechanisms against it in an urban area- Bangalore.Methods: A longitudinal study was conducted in the urban area of Bangalore. Sample size was calculated to be 350 households. Data regarding socio-demographic profile, protective mechanisms and other details were obtained by interview method using a pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaire.Results: Majority were in the productive age group i.e. 991 (62.68%) individuals. Female population was slightly higher in our study. Most of the households belonged to upper lower class (54.29%). A major burden of health care cost was experienced both in acute as well as chronic illness by the households. Only 8.9% (31 households) had one or the other type of health insurance.Conclusions: Population has profound chances of experiencing catastrophic health expenditure in times of severe illness.
Longitudinal study to assess socio-demographic profile and treatment outcome of new sputum smear positive cases at designated microscopy centre of tertiary care hospital
Authors: Vishwanath G. R. , Babar Sandeep Dattatray , Naik J. D. , Kamble Girish
Published: December 2018

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the world’s deadliest communicable diseases. In 2013, an estimated 9.0 million people developed TB and 1.5 million died from the disease, 360 000 of whom were HIV-positive. Of the estimated 9 million people who developed TB in 2013, more than half (56%) were in the South-East Asia and Western Pacific Regions and India and China alone accounted for 24% and 11% of total cases, respectively. India’s TB Control Program is on track as far as reduction in disease burden is concerned there was 50% reduction in TB mortality rate by 2013 as compared to 1990 level. Tuberculosis prevalence per lakh population reduced from 465 in year 1990 to 211 in 2013. But still, in India there is high burden of Tuberculosis cases and high mortality in the current situation.Methods: Descriptive Longitudinal study was conducted from 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2016 at designated microscopy centre (DMC) in tertiary care hospital of Government Medical Miraj.Results: Maximum of TB cases 47 (30.71%) were from >30-45 age group and 72 (47.05%) cases belongs nuclear family. 126 (82.35%) cases had completed their treatment schedule for 6/7 months were labelled ‘cured’ at the end of study, while among 27 (17.65%) cases 17 (11.11%) ‘Died’ during treatment schedule, 9 (5.88%) cases became ‘defaulters’ and 1 (0.65%) case was ‘failure’.Conclusions: In the present study, Maximum cases were from >30-45 yrs age group and proportions of males were more as compare to females. Hindus was predominantly more in number among all religions and number of cases coming from rural area was more. The association between gender and treatment outcome of study cases was found statistically significant.
A study of socio-demographic profile and pattern of drug use among substance abusers attending mind care de-addiction center in Ahmedabad
Authors: Prajapati Bhavesh B. , Dedun Mihir R. , Jalfava Harshdev S. , Shukla Aparajita A.
Published: December 2018

Background: Substance abuse has emerged as a global phenomenon and prevalent throughout the world in all the cultures. Abuse of alcoholic beverages and tobacco are endemic in many societies, whilst the abuse of other psychoactive substances is growing concern in India. It has major impact on physical, psychological, social and environmental aspect of life.Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out amongst 100 persons attended at Mind Care de-addiction centre, Ahmedabad during the period of 1st January to 28th February 2018 with the help of pretested semi structured questionnaire.Results: Majority of the substance abusers were males (98%) and within the age group of 31 to 45 years (46%). Out of total abusers 28% were graduate and 47% doing skilled work. Majority of study participants were married (47%), belong to joint families (92%) and belongs to socio economic class I and II (50%). Most commonly used drug was alcohol (64%), followed by tobacco (20%), cannabis (12%) and opium (4%). Majority of users started to use it for social reasons (33%) and stress (26%). They got it for the first time from friends in 62% cases and 36% got by themselves. Health related changes were experienced in more than 50% of cases. Out of them, 84% feel improvement after visiting the centre.Conclusions: Drug use pattern is ever changing and has emerged as a global burden as it causes serious public health problems. There is a felt need for the assessment of the evolving trends of substance abuse. And suitable interventions for primary prevention should be considered.
Study of urinary incontinence affecting the quality of life and health seeking behavior in women of an urban slum in Mumbai
Authors: Mandge Jyoti S. , Dehmubed Armaity
Published: December 2018

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) defined by the International Continence Society as the complaint of any involuntary leakage of urine, is a social or hygiene problem. The purpose of this study was to determine how UI affected quality of life (QOL) of women in urban slum in Mumbai and also their health care seeking behavior for the same.Methods: A pre-formed, pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire was designed for a centre based study, to collect information from 1200 eligible and willing women over a period of 6 months. Of these 361 had complaints of UI how had the UI affected their quality of life and whether they sought health care for treatment of same was studied. Data was entered in Microsoft Excel and analysis was done accordingly.Results: Of the 361 women who had UI, the QOL was affected as in avoiding social interactions 45.15%, avoiding religious functions 49.03%, feeling of emotional upset/distress 59.8% and hampering of domestic work 57.8%. The extra financial burden felt due to UI was only in 7.7% women and only 1.9% complained of sexual life getting affected. Health care services for treatment of UI were sought by only 24.1% of the affected women.Conclusions: That UI affected the QOL of women affected with it in terms of reduced social interactions and attendance at religious programs and the feeling of emotional upset and hampering of domestic works. Subjects felt their financial burden had increased due to UI.
Usage of electronic devices and awareness regarding e-waste management amongst engineering college students: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Nannaware Maya N. , Kulkarni Shraddha S.
Published: December 2018

Background: The total waste generated by obsolete or broken down electronic and electrical equipment was estimated to be 1,46,000 tonnes for the year 2005, which is expected to exceed 8,00,000 tonnes by 2012. However, according to the Green peace report in 2007, India generated 380,000 tonnes of e-waste. Only 3% of this made it to the authorized recyclers’ facilities.Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out amongst 133 Engineering Students of Sinhgad Institute of Technology College, Lonavala, Pune which is located in a rural field practice area of Smt. Kashibai Navale Medical College, Pune during the period of June 2016 to December 2016. Data was collected by using a self-administered questionnaire and analyzed by using Epi. Info 7 and appropriate statistical tests were applied.Results: Almost 125 (94%) students replaced mobile phones in last five years. Common reason for replacement was desire for newer technology by 33 (26.4%) students and need for greater functionality by 29 (23.2%). The old mobile phones were kept at home by 34 (27.2%) students, followed by dumped by 31 (24.8%), it was also noted that many students sold the mobile phones and only 8 (6.5%) were aware of the e–waste management policy.Conclusions: Most of the students replacing the mobile phones frequently but the level of awareness about the e-waste management were low, so need to increase the awareness among the users for implementation of the e waste management policy.
Awareness about HIV and post exposure prophylaxis among students of a nursing college from central Karnataka: a cross sectional study
Authors: Kumar Aswin , Ratnaprabha G. K.
Published: December 2018

Background: Nursing students are the integral part of health care delivery system in future prospects. The accidental transmission of HIV infection to health care workers is a real threat in present situation. Adequate knowledge about the disease and post exposure prophylaxis will help to provide care to patients and prevent infection at health care settings. The objectives of the study was to assess the knowledge of nursing students about HIV / AIDS and post exposure prophylaxis (PEP) and association of knowledge level with the different courses of nursing.Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out among final year GNM and BSc nursing students of a nursing college in central Karnataka during December 2017, Data regarding knowledge about HIV infection and PEP was collected using self administered semi structured questionnaire.Results: Total of 108 nursing students took part in the study. BSc nursing students contributed 66.7% of the study subjects. Mean HIV/AIDS knowledge score was 7.86±2.25. Subjects studying BSc nursing had better knowledge when compared to GNM subjects. Seventy two (66.67%) students had heard about post exposure prophylaxis. Majority were unaware about time of initiation (94.6%) and duration of PEP (86.1%).Conclusions: Knowledge about HIV/AIDS and PEP are inadequate among nursing students. It is recommended to incorporate practical issues effectively in their teaching curriculum.
A cross sectional study to assess the prevalence and associated factors of computer vision syndrome among engineering students of Hyderabad, Telangana
Authors: Pulla Anupama , . Asma , Samyuktha Nanduri , Kasubagula Soumya , Kataih Aishwarya , Banoth Devender , Addagatla Harshitha
Published: December 2018

Background: Computer vision syndrome is a complex of eye and vision problems related to near work which are experienced due to prolonged computer use. Computers demand near work, for longer duration which increases discomfort of eye and prolonged exposure to the discomfort leads to a cascade of symptoms that can be referred as computer vision syndrome. The aims and objectives of the study were to determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome among engineering students of Hyderabad, Telangana and to determine the factors related to computer vision syndrome among study population.Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out from March to June 2017 among students of an engineering college in Hyderabad, Telangana. A convenient sample of 300 students was taken and a predesigned, pre tested questionnaire was used to obtain information.Results: Majority of study population were males (56.3%). Around 75.1% of study population were using all the electronic gadgets like computers, laptops and smartphones. The prevalence of computer vision syndrome was found to be 60.3%. Around 46.7% of study population viewed the screen from a distance of 22-40 centimeters.Conclusions: As students pursuing engineering stream are the future IT and Computer software engineers, preventive strategies adopted by them will significantly decrease the burden of computer vision syndrome and improve productivity. In this study a significant proportion of the engineering students were found to be having vision problems, which emphasizes the need to adopt preventive measures to avoid computer vision syndrome.