bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity and Stress
Authors: Kumar Rupal , Rizvi Moattar Raza , Saraswat Shubhra
Published: May 2024

Two highly overriding problems that the society is facing today are stress and obesity. This narrative review article explains the vicious cycle of how stress leads to obesity and vice versa. Stress and obesity are interconnected to each other through different lines of cognition, behavior, and physiology. Stress can interfere with cognitive processes like self-regulation. Stress can also influence behavior by indulging in overeating of foods that are high in calories, fat, and sugar. Stress also invigorates the generation of biochemical hormones and peptides, for example, leptin, ghrelin, and neuropeptide Y. This article also extracts the contribution of weight stigma and social stress in producing obesity in an obesogenic process. Recent Studies describe that psychological distress and elevated cortisol secretion promote abdominal fat, a feature of the metabolic syndrome, improvements in mindfulness, chronic stress, and cortisol awakening response (CAR) were associated with reductions in abdominal fat. Mindfulness intervention for stress suggests that mindfulness training improves eating patterns and the CAR, which may reduce abdominal fat over time. Obesity has a multifaceted etiology. In this review, several factors of stress are identified that affect the development of obesity. This review also provides valuable insight into the relationship between obesity and stress.
Relationship between Severity and Complexity of Coronary Artery Involvement and Obstructive Sleep Apnea Based on STOP-BANG Questionnaire
Authors: Naghshtabrizi Nima , Alizadeh Soroosh , Naghshtabrizi Behshad , Jalali Arash , Salarifar Mojtaba
Published: May 2024

Background:

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which has a known correlation with cardiovascular disease, is a possible risk factor of coronary artery disease (CAD) that is preventable.

Aims:

We sought to put lights on the relationship between OSA based on the STOP-BANG questionnaire (SBQ) and the severity and complexity of coronary artery involvement.

Methods:

This cross-sectional, single-center, retrospective study was conducted among 145 patients who underwent selective coronary angiography (SCA) between October 2018 and March 2019, admitted to the Tehran Heart Center, Tehran, Iran. OSA risk was assessed in patients based on SBQ categories. Also, the severity and complexity of coronary artery involvement calculated according to SYNTAX and Gensini scores. Analysis performed by statistical software SPSS 25.

Results:

Based on SBQ risk assessment categories, 22 (15.2%), 64 (44.1%), and 59 (40.7%) of the patients were low, intermediate, and high-risk for OSA, respectively. By comparing the means of coronary artery involvement, there was no significant difference in SYNTAX score 17.15 ± 13.67 (10.56–23.74) in low, 15.67 ± 9.78 (13.19–18.16) in intermediate, and 16.93 ± 9.21 (14.42–19.45) in high-risk groups; P value: 0.754, and Gensini score 66.4 ± 70.75 (35.04–97.77) in low, 66.21 ± 55.05 (52.45–79.96) in intermediate, 74.61 ± 56.33 (59.93–89.3) iin high risk groups; P value: 0.697 with groups of OSA risks. Also, after adjusting confounding factors, there was still no statistically significant difference in terms of coronary involvement scores.

Conclusions:

There was no statistically significant difference in SYNTAX and Gensini scores of different groups of OSA risk categories based on the SBQ. However, our results can't be extended into the connection between OSA and CAD.
Diet Quality Indices in Relation to Cardiovascular Risk Factors in T2DM Patients
Authors: Sepandi Mojtaba , Parastouei Karim , Samadi Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Background:

Dietary quality indices are practical as an instrument to investigate the extent of adhering to a special diet to prevent cardiovascular disease (CVD) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Considering the lack of any systematic review with regards to this issue, our aim was to examine observational studies to test the relationship between dietary quality indices and CVD risk factors in T2DM.

Methods:

Systematic search was performed in Web of knowledge, PubMed, Cochrane, Science direct, Google Scholar and Scopus databases from January 1990 to July 2020. The studies exploring the relationship between dietary quality indices (diet quality score (DQS), dietary diversity score (DDS), healthy diet indicator (HDI), healthy eating index (HEI), diet quality index (DQI), Mediterranean diet score (MDS)) and lipid profile, anthropometric indices, glucose profile as well as blood pressure were eligible to be included in this review. Overall, mean changes, odd ratio (RR), correlation coefficients, and beta coefficient of outcomes were extracted, with the quality assessment of studies performed applying The Newcastle-Ottawa scale.

Results:

From among 1627 papers, 10 articles were included: Eight cross-sectional and two prospective (cohort) studies. The association between HEI as well as MDS and CVD risk factors was more evident in the included studies. Fasting blood sugar, hemoglobin A1c, body mass index, and waist circumference revealed the greatest inverse significant relationship with dietary quality indices in adults with T2DM.

Conclusion:

Overall, the findings of this study suggest that the level of CVD risk factors in T2DM decreases significantly with increase in the score of dietary quality indices. Further studies in future are required to confirm these findings.
Effect of Short-Term Practice of Left Nostril Breathing on Various Sleep Parameters in the Medical Students
Authors: Gajbhiye Himanshu A. , Vij Vinu , Raje Dhananjay
Published: May 2024

Background:

Various recent studies have reported that exclusive right nostril breathing (RNB) and left nostril breathing (LNB) has an immediate and sustained effect under various medical conditions. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of short-term left nostril breathing on various sleep parameters in medical students.

Methods:

We hypothesized that the increase in vagal tone because of LNB can help in improving the quality of sleep. The baseline sleep quality was documented before the start of study in the case and the control group using the ’Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index’ (PSQI) questionnaire. A PSQI global score of more than 5 indicates poor sleep quality. The case group practiced LNB in a graduated manner for a period of 4 weeks. Thereafter, sleep quality was documented for both the groups using the PSQI questionnaire.

Results:

Practicing LNB significantly lowered all the seven component scores (p < 0.05) and the global PSQI score in the case group (p-value < 0.0001), suggesting that this practice effectively improved the sleep quality in the individuals of this group.

Conclusions:

Overall, this study suggested that exclusive LNB practice could serve as an important lifestyle modification that can be incorporated in the routine of medical students for improving their sleep quality.
Effect of Short Course on the Knowledge and Practice of Housewives Peer Group Activists as Assistance to Lactating Mothers in Providing Exclusive Breastfeeding
Authors: Nugraheni Sri Achadi , Sulistiawati S , Suyatno S , Sulistyowati Etik , Kartasurya Martha Irene , Nandini Nurhasmadiar
Published: May 2024

Background:

Efforts to increase the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding require extraordinary innovation supported by many parties, such as community leaders, including Housewives Peer Group activist living as a neighborhood of lactating mothers. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of a short course on the knowledge and practice of Housewives Peer Group activists as assistance to lactating mothers in providing exclusive breastfeeding.

Methods:

The method of the research was pre and post-test of quasi-experimental. The population was Housewives Peer Group activists in the working area of Tlogosari Wetan Community Health Center, Semarang City. Samples were chosen using purposive random sampling to 37 Housewives Peer Group activists. The intervention given was a short course which should be attended by the group, and the post-test was assessed 1 month after conducting the pre-test.

Results:

The results of the Wilcoxson Match Paired test showed differences in knowledge (P < 0.05) and practice (P < 0.05) of the Housewives Peer Group activists before and after attending a short course regarding exclusive breastfeeding and lactation management. At the end of the study, the knowledge and practice of the Housewives Peer Group activists increased by 4.21 points and 3.73 points, respectively.

Conclusions:

Short course on exclusive breastfeeding and lactation management significantly influences the increased knowledge and practice of Housewives Peer Group activists that further improve the quality of transferred information, monitor public health, especially to increase the coverage of exclusive breastfeeding and lactation management for breastfeeding mothers.
Association of Maternal Obesity and Diabetes Mellitus with Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Saudi Mothers in Jubail, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Anazi Ohud Mohammed , Mohammad Haneef Mohammad Shafee , Zafar Mubashir , Ahsan Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Background:

Obesity and diabetes are common public health issues in Saudi Arabia. The aim of this study is to evaluate the association of maternal obesity and diabetes with exclusive breastfeeding among Saudi Mothers at the Royal Commission Service Primary Health Care Centers in Jubail City, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

It is a cross-sectional study and 360 mothers were selected from primary health center through a simple random sampling. A validated and structured questionnaire was used. Body mass index was used for calculation of obesity and fasting blood sugar to find out the diabetic status. Chi-square test was used to assessing the difference between obese and nonobese and diabetic and nondiabetic group with respect to exclusive breastfeeding. Logistic regression was used to determine the association of obesity and diabetes with exclusive breastfeeding.

Results:

Obesity and diabetic prevalence among study participants were 81.9% and 65.5%, respectively. Exclusive breastfeeding prevalence among total study participants was 36.9%. Among obese, it was 28.8% and diabetes, it was 29.1% and this difference is statistically significant when compared to nonobese and nondiabetic group (P-value 0.04). The obese [OR1.30 (1.12–4.85) with P value 0.02] and diabetic [OR 1.56 (1.35–3.9) with P value 0.00] mothers were more than one time more likely associated with nonexclusive breastfeeding.

Conclusions:

The study concludes that the rate of exclusive breastfeeding decreased among obese and diabetic mothers and the positive association of obese and diabetes with nonexclusive breastfeeding. Intervention is required to reduce the prevalence of obesity and diabetic among breastfeeding mothers.
SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Eyitemi Joshua , Thomas Britanie , Ramos Yazmin , Feng Xue , Ezekwesili Chiamaka
Published: May 2024

The 2019 Coronavirus Virus Disease (COVID-19) represents a global public health challenge in the twenty-first century. As of June 2020, the virus had spread across 216 countries across the globe. This paper aims to analyze and identify those existing comorbidities among COVID-19 patients that represent potential risk factors for COVID-19 complications, severe illness, and death. Multiple database resources were searched. The resources include the University of Saskatchewan library USearch, Google Scholar, PubMed, Medline, and the Google search engine. Thirty-seven articles, which included 15 different types of chronic diseases, were selected. Among the reviewed diseases and conditions, cancer, diabetes, lymphopenia, hypertension, kidney disease, smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and organ transplant were found to represent potential risk factors for COVID-19 complications, severe illness, and death. Other conditions that require further research as to whether they predispose subjects to severe illness and death include coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, valvular heart disease, gastrointestinal diseases, HIV/AIDS, asthma, and liver disease. In conclusion, this article explains the association between diseases mentioned above and the severity of COVID-19 and clearly shows the population at risk. This paper will help government bodies and decision-makers prioritize resources for these populations to reduce mortality rates and overall quality of life.
Role of Vitamin A Supplementation in Prevention and Control of Coronavirus Disease-19
Authors: Singh Nikita , Chawla Harsh Vardhan , Kumar Arun , Singh Sangeeta
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) caused by SARS-CoV-2 is a novel viral infectious disease, which broke out in the end of winter season 2019 in China and soon became a pandemic. Characteristically there was severe local and systemic immune-inflammatory response to the virus, damaging the respiratory system and other organ systems. The morbidity and mortality caused by the disease are producing tremendous impact on health. The understanding about pathogenesis and manifestations of the disease was obscure. To date, no classic treatment or preventive measure was available for COVID-19 other than symptomatic and supportive care or few drugs under trial. A possibility exists that maintaining vitamin A adequate levels can protect the affected respiratory mucosa, increase antimicrobial activity, produce better antibody response, and have antiinflammatory effects, thereby promoting repair and healing as well. It has been discussed in the review that by various mechanisms, immune regulation through vitamin A supplementation is beneficial to boost immunity in the current outbreak situation when the population is susceptible to the disease. There is a high possibility that vitamin A supplementation to cases as well as population at risk of COVID-19 has a key role in prevention and control. Hence, it is believed that along with other therapeutic and preventive measures, maintaining vitamin A sufficiency during and prior to the development of active disease may act as an adjuvant in population at risk and cases to prevent and control COVID-19.
Incidence and Source of COVID-19 Infection Among Health Care Workers in a Tertiary Hospital in South India—A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mohan Yogesh , Charumathi B. , Anantha Eashwar V. M. , Jain Timsi , Abiramasundari V. K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Data for COVID-19 incidence and the source of infection among health care workers (HCWs) in Indian population are limited. The main objective of the study was to assess the incidence of COVID-19 infection and identify the source of infection among the HCWs in a tertiary teaching hospital.

Methods:

A prospective cohort study was conducted among the 2134 HCWs recruited by purposive sampling from a tertiary teaching hospital from May to August 2020 (4-month period—123 days). Over the 4-month period, all the HCWs who had symptoms or those were close contacts of COVID positive patients were traced and tested using validated COVID diagnostic test (reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction [RT–PCR] test). A semi-structured questionnaire was used to interview each positive HCW to identify the source of exposure of the infection.

Results:

Incidence proportion was 9.3% among HCWs and was two times higher among males compared to females. Hazard ratio was found to be higher among males and HCWs working in the non-COVID areas. Test positivity rate was found to highest (around 57.8%) among those aged less than 30 years. The most common source of infection was infected HCW colleagues (40.9%) followed by exposure to patients in non-COVID areas (27.3%). Only 5.1% of total infection was found in HCWs who had worked in COVID zones.

Conclusions:

People working in non-COVID areas, those using shared workplace, dining halls, and staff hostels, must follow strict COVID protocols by using appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and following social distancing measures.
Stepped Care Model for Developing Pathways of Screening, Referral, and Brief Intervention for Depression in Pregnancy
Authors: Kukreti Prerna , Ransing Ramdas , Raghuveer Pracheth , Mahdevaiah Mahesh , Deshpande Smita N , Kataria Dinesh , Puri Manju , Vallamkonda Omsai Ramesh , Rana Sumit , Pemde Harish K , Yadav Reena , Nain Shilpi , Prasad Shiv , Garg Bhavuk
Published: May 2024

Background:

Depression in pregnancy affects nearly one in five women in low- and middle-income countries and is associated with adverse obstetric and neonatal outcome. Burden of morbidity is high, but specialized mental health resources are meager. Effective low intensity psychosocial interventions hold promise to fill the treatment gap for maternal depression. In this paper, we aim to describe the process of development of a stepped care model incorporating screening, providing brief intervention, and referral pathways developed for managing depression in pregnancy in antenatal care health facilities in India.

Methodology:

Using complex intervention development and evaluation method of Medical Research Council, United Kingdom, we searched evidence-based strategies from preexisting manuals, conducted formative research for need assessment and stakeholder engagement, and developed the intervention following an expert review panel. We conducted pilot testing to assess the feasibility and acceptability of intervention supplemented by three focused group discussions.

Results:

Manual review identified psychoeducation, empathetic listening, behavior activation, and supportive counseling as important elements. Need assessment revealed huge gap in perinatal mental health knowledge. Nearly 92% of total 272 perinatal women had poor awareness and 35%–70% of total 62 health-care providers had poor knowledge. In qualitative interview, women reported depressive symptoms as a normal part of pregnancy and had poor help seeking, behavior symptoms of depression were more prominent. A stepped care algorithm was developed for screening all expectant mothers in each trimester for depression using Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9). Women with PHQ-9 score >19 or reporting self-harm ideation were urgently referred to psychiatrist. Women with PHQ-9 score 5–19 were given brief intervention for depression in pregnancy intervention by antenatal nurse. The intervention developed consists of three sessions of psychoeducation, relaxation exercise, and mental health promotion, each lasting 20 min and at gap of 2 weeks each. Service providers and mothers reported good acceptability of psychosocial intervention and reported satisfaction with content and delivery of intervention.

Conclusion:

Low intensity brief psychosocial interventions can be adapted for implementation if relevant stakeholders are engaged at each step right from development of such as screening, intervention pathway to delivery, and effectiveness study.
Association of Physical Activity with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus among Pregnant Women in a Rural Area of Maharashtra: A Community-based Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Prabhakar Manish Chandra , Halder Pritam
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Our objective was to determine the association of physical activity with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) among pregnant women in a rural area of Maharashtra.

Methods:

The current community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 965 pregnant women from 3 primary health centers of the field practice area of the Department of Community Medicine, MGIMS, Sevagram, who were included in the ICMR-funded Central India Rural Pregnancy Cohort Project from October 2016 to May 2018. After assuring informed written consent, a pretested semi-structured questionnaire was administered. The Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group India criteria were used for screening. The level of 2-h plasma glucose >140 mg/dL with 75 g oral glucose load was used to diagnose GDM irrespective of the duration of the last meal. The Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) was administered to assess the association of physical activity and GDM among the participants.

Results:

Among all participants, 5.39% were GDM positive; 24.45% of pregnant women had metabolic equivalent of task (MET) score <8.5 MET-h/day, and 75.54% had MET-h/day score >8.5 MET-h/day. The odds of having GDM in participants with physical activity < 8.5 MET-h/day was 22% more than that of participants with >8.5 MET-h/day. Two hundred and thirty-six participants (24.45%) reported to have sedentary levels of physical activity, 437 (45.28%) had light-level physical activity, 255 (26.42%) had moderate physical activity, and only 37 (3.83%) had heavy physical activity. With respect to participants with sedentary lifestyle, participants performing light (odds ratio [OR]: 0.76; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.21–2.79), moderate (OR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.15–1.92), and heavy physical activities (OR: 0.65; 95% CI: 0.17–2.41) had 24%, 46%, and 35% lesser odds of having GDM, respectively.

Conclusions:

The current study documented the inverse relationship of physical activity during pregnancy and the risk of developing GDM. With an increase in the intensity of exercise the risk of GDM became lesser respectively. It is advised to all the women to perform regular physical activity during family planning, as early as possible, and to continue during the span of pregnancy to avoid the risk of developing GDM.
Recurrent Brunneroma: A Rare Cause of Duodenal Obstruction
Authors: Majumdar Namrata , Sardar Tapas , Das Dipratim , Halder Pankaj
Published: May 2024

Brunneroma, also known as Bruner’s gland adenoma or hamartoma, is a rare benign tumor of the duodenum. It is usually asymptomatic and sometimes presents with an upper gastrointestinal (UGI) bleed or obstruction. The majority of the cases are detected incidentally during endoscopy for UGI bleeding and may require endoscopic excision. Here, we attempt to highlight a case of recurrent large Brunneroma in a 52-year-old male and reassess the representative features that surgeons need to be aware of. We had to go for a major surgical intervention to relieve the duodenal obstruction.
Pediatric Urinary Tract Infections at a Tertiary Care Center: Microbial Diversity and Antibiotic Resistance Patterns
Authors: Agrawal Manish Kumar , Baveja Sujata , Joshi Anuja
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Urinary tract infection (UTI) remains a prevalent bacterial infection among the pediatric age group, ranking as the third-most common bacterial infection in children in developing countries, following gastrointestinal and respiratory tract infections. It continues to pose a significant health challenge.

Materials and Methods:

The urine samples underwent gross examination, wet mount, and Gram stain. Semiquantitative cultures were conducted on conventional media (MacConkey agar, blood agar, and CLED agar) and UTI chromogenic media. Uropathogen identification employed standard microbiological techniques. Antibiotic susceptibility was determined using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method, with interpretation based on CLSI guidelines. Plates were incubated overnight, and clear zone diameters around antibiotic discs were measured for sensitivity or resistance determination.

Results:

The study comprised 64.75% male children and 35.25% female children. Analyzing the age distribution, the majority of participants fell within the age range of 1–5 years (35%), followed by those <1 year (33.75%), and the age group of 5–12 years, accounting for 31.25% of the total 400 participants. The findings from our investigation revealed a UTI prevalence of 17.25%, with Escherichia coli and Klebsiella emerging as the predominant uropathogens. Notably, these pathogens exhibited a significant susceptibility to carbapenems, nitrofurantoin, and amikacin.

Conclusion:

Our study identified a male predominance and various age distributions among UTI patients. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns revealed E. coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae’s high sensitivity to key antibiotics, whereas Enterococcus spp. exhibited significant high-level aminoglycoside resistance. This study underscores the importance of tailored antibiotic strategies based on local resistance profiles to combat UTIs effectively.
A Unique 10-year Indian Experience in Enhanced Recovery after Bariatric Surgery
Authors: Shah Shashank S. , Mutha Sandeep , Kharat Sushil Kumar , Kanani Elmutaz Abdalla Mekki , Gerard Adrian
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Obesity and related morbidities impose a significant burden on the health system. Bariatric surgery has been shown to be the most effective treatment to achieve the required weight loss and reverse the metabolic syndrome. Patients with obesity essentially fall in the high-risk surgical group. Advances in the perioperative management and anesthetic techniques had resulted in enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). We are presenting a 10-year experience of implementing a locally pioneered ERAS protocol that predated contemporary protocols.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis of data of all patients who underwent bariatric surgery in a single institution from January 2012 to December 2022 was performed. Microsoft Office Excel 2007 was used for statistical analysis.

Results:

The 7522 patients included 2408 males and 5114 females (ratio 1:2.1). Mean age was 44.6 ± 17 years (13–81 years) and body mass index 41.9 ± 12.4 kg/m2 (26–77 kg/m2). All procedures were done laparoscopically. Procedures included sleeve gastrectomy 69% (mean operative time 39 min; standard deviation [SD] ±15 min), Roux-en-Y gastric bypass 21% (mean operative time 63 min; SD ± 17 min), and one anastomosis gastric bypass 10% (mean operative time 45 min; SD ± 7 min). Seventy percent of patients were discharged within 24 h after surgery and 1.4% hospitalized for ≥72 h. Four hundred and eighty-nine patients (6.5%) were readmitted within 30 days of surgery (96% mandated by inadequate oral intake). The incidence of early major complications was 0.3%. There was no documented mortality.

Conclusion:

This protocol’s long-term safety and efficacy support the current ERAS guidelines.
Management of Postgastric Bypass Jejuno-jejunal Anastomotic Leak: A Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Patolia Sanjay , Patolia Hetal , Bhalodia Dhara , Patel Himmat , Kapadia Mandeep
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Anastomotic leakage is one of the most critical complications following gastric bypass surgery. Leakage from jejuno-jejunal (JJ) anastomosis after Roux-en-Y gastric bypass occurs infrequently, and so there are fewer studies on its management. The JJ anastomotic leak (AL) has high morbidity and mortality; hence, early detection and timely management are critical to optimizing outcomes.

Aims and Objectives:

We evaluated all the treatment options for the patients experiencing JJ anastomosis leaks to propose an algorithm-based practical management guideline for these patients.

Materials and Methods:

During the early postoperative period, retrospective analysis using clinical findings, blood parameters, and contrast computed tomography scans were carried out, and patients were classified into various categories such as leak with/without septicemia and leak with or without extravasation of contrast. All the patients were managed differently based on the category they belonged to.

Results:

Over a period of 3 years, out of 1393 cases of gastric bypass, 11 patients (0.78%) were diagnosed with postoperative JJ AL within 6 weeks of the postoperative period. The earlier cases were extensively treated with diagnostic laparoscopy along with local lavage, insertion of a feeding jejunostomy tube, leakage site drainage, proximal drainage, and nasogastric decompression with or without intensive care, causing considerable hospital stay and increased morbidity. With experience, we realized that all patients with leaks do not require extensive management. We have eventually determined an algorithm to manage JJ ALs depending on clinical and radiological parameters.

Conclusion:

Our individualized and effective algorithm-based management protocol results in quicker recovery, optimizes the intervention, and minimizes hospital stay, morbidity, and mortality after postoperative JJ AL. It can potentially mitigate the cost burden in India while ensuring a better outcome. This retrospective pilot study can be a practical guideline for the optimal management of JJ ALs after gastric bypass.
Assessment of Cinnamaldehyde’s Potency on Heat Stress-induced Testicular Impairments in Wistar Rats
Authors: Muthusamy Pazhanisankar , Wankhar Dapkupar , Paul Jeyakumari , Ravishankar Nivetha , Rajan Ravindran
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Male sterility results from high testicular temperatures, which affect mammalian spermatogenesis. High testicular temperatures affect sperm motility, morphology and fertility according to their magnitude and duration.

Aims:

The aim of the current study is to examine the effects of heat-induced oxidative stress and cinnamaldehyde on Wistar rat testicular structure and function.

Settings and Design:

The rats used in this experiment were Wistar albino rats.

Materials and Methods:

This research has six animals per group. Male Wistar albino rats of 2.5–3 months old and 275–300 g. (I) control, (II) heat stress (HS) in a closed chamber at 41°C for 14 days and (III) HS with cinnamaldehyde (CA) 50 mg/kg body weight for 14 days. (IV) CA alone. After the study, the animals were euthanised, and test samples were taken for sperm count, morphology, haematoxylin and eosin stain for normal cellular morphology, antioxidants and DNA integrity assessments.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were analysed statistically using one- and two-way ANOVA tests for comparisons between groups.

Results:

The stress group had significantly lower sperm counts and poor sperm morphology. The stress group’s antioxidant capacity is much lower than that of the control group. Animals under stress have fragmented DNA. Treatment with cinnamaldehyde increased overall antioxidant capacity and seminal parameters, and rats behaved most like controls.

Conclusion:

CA restores malondialdehyde levels, total antioxidant capacity, sperm characteristics and mitigates testicular damage in rats exposed to experimental HS.
Transient Complete Asthenozoospermia
Authors: Kulla Artenisa , Mirza Basil , Campbell Kevin James
Published: May 2024

ABSTRACT

Limited research exists on the mechanisms underlying asthenozoospermia associated with acquired ciliary dyskinesia. Primary ciliary dyskinesia links respiratory pathology with infertility and provides a basis for a potential mechanism. The aetiology of asthenozoospermia is often unclear and may be secondary to direct or indirect effects on sperm motility. Here, we report a case – with a brief clinical review – of recovering sperm motility after diagnosis of complete asthenozoospermia coinciding with resolution of chronic respiratory infections. The patient is a 36-year-old male, with initial semen analysis demonstrating 100% immotile sperm. Following the resolution of chronic respiratory infection, subsequent analysis demonstrated functional improvement with 76 million sperm/mL, 8% progressive motility and 4% strict morphology. Our case reinforces a potentially underappreciated role of environmental risk factors in infertility, with a focus on the patient’s history of infections and other risk factors for acquired ciliary dyskinesia, which should be kept in mind when treating patients with asthenozoospermia.
Factors associated with the incidence of patient falls in hospitals: A scoping review
Authors: Ainani Nurul , Irwan Andi Masyitha
Published: May 2024

When a patient falls within a hospital setting, there is a significant increase in the risk of severe injury or health complications. Recognizing factors associated with such falls is crucial to mitigate their impact on patient safety. This review seeks to analyze the factors contributing to patient falls in hospitals. The main goal is to enhance our understanding of the reasons behind these falls, enabling hospitals to devise more effective prevention strategies. This study reviewed literature published from 2013 to 2022, using the Arksey and O’Malley methodology for a scoping review. The research literature was searched from seven databases, namely, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Wiley Library, Garuda, Global Index Medicus, Emerald Insight, and Google Scholar. The inclusion criteria comprised both qualitative and quantitative primary and secondary data studies centered on hospitalized patients. Out of the 893 studies analyzed, 23 met the criteria and were included in this review. Although there is not an abundance of relevant literature, this review identified several factors associated with falls in hospitals. These encompass environmental, patient, staff, and medical factors. This study offers valuable insights for hospitals and medical personnel aiming to enhance fall prevention practices. Effective prevention efforts should prioritize early identification of patient risk factors, enhancement of the care environment, thorough training for care staff, and vigilant supervision of high-risk patients. By comprehending the factors that contribute to patient falls, hospitals can bolster patient safety and mitigate the adverse effects of falls within the health-care setting.
Infection control and prevention in burn victims: The role of nurses
Authors: Ariyo Dorcas Ayomikun , Olorunfemi Olaolorunpo
Published: May 2024

Burn injury is a major public health concern, with an estimated 180,000 deaths each year associated with burn-related infections. The majority of these occur in low- and middle-income countries, and almost two-thirds occur in the World Health Organization African and South-East Asia Regions. There is a risk of an escalation of burn injury site infections if nurses who are directly involved in burn care do not develop a mechanism to mitigate this risk in the coming years. Hence, this study aims at explaining what burn injuries are and how nurses can prevent the occurrence of infection among burn victims. This review analyzed published studies using keywords such as burn injury, infection in burn patients, and nurses’ involvement in infection prevention and control (IPC) on search engines such as PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar. The literature was retrieved and reviewed for eligibility to capture just the variables indicated in this seminar objective; the date range chosen in the literature search was from 2015 to 2023. The study found that many patients die from burn injuries as a result of exposure to infection and most nurses are not adequately informed about infection control. The study also found that nurses’ responsibilities include proper hand hygiene, wound care, the use of personal protective equipment, antibiotic medication, cleaning the patient’s surroundings, and preventing patient cross-contamination. Burn injuries pose a significant risk to patients, necessitating infection control and prevention. Therefore, nurses in burn units should be informed on IPC practices and also educate patients, families, and coworkers on their importance.
Impact of auditory stimulation nursing protocol on auditory response in cerebrovascular stroke patients
Authors: Zaky Mohammed ElSayed , Al Sebaee Hanan Ahmed , Ibrahiem Nagat El Morsy , Mohammed Heba Ahmed , Mohammad Mohammad Edrees
Published: May 2024

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to explore the impact of auditory stimulation protocol on auditory response in cerebrovascular stroke (CVS) patients.

Materials and Methods:

A pre–posttest nonequivalent control group quasi-experimental study was conducted at Al Mainal Hospital at Al Kars Einy Hospital, Cairo University, among 60 CVS patients, and the sample was randomly assigned through a coin to allocate subjects to study or control group (30 for each group). Auditory stimulation techniques were applied three times per week for the study group for two consecutive weeks. Patients in the control group received only routine hospital care during the study period. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score for assessing the neurological function and level of arousal and the auditory subscale score of Western Neuro Sensory Stimulation Profile (WNSSP) for assessing auditory response were recorded and compared between the two groups before and after the intervention.

Results:

There were statistically significant differences between the study group and the control group regarding third reading of GCS score (11.5 ± 0.3 vs. 10.6 ± 0.9, t = 4.676, P = 0.000). The scores of all auditory subscales of WNSSP in the study groups increased after implementing the auditory stimulation protocol (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Utilizing the auditory stimulation protocol by nurse proves to be an effective method for enhancing hearing responses in individuals with CVS.
Family journey in the process of recovery of schizophrenia: A qualitative study
Authors: Fauziah Sifa , Balqis Ummi Malikal , Obar Obar , Suryadin Asep , Chairunisa Stefani
Published: May 2024

Objective:

The aim of this research is to explore the life experiences of schizophrenic families in accompanying the recovery process.

Methods:

This study uses a qualitative method with descriptive phenomenology to explain phenomena from family experiences. The number of the participants was eight families who had family members with schizophrenia. Sampling was determined by purposive sampling. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using the Colaizzi method.

Results:

The results of this study show four themes that emerged including (1) psychological burden on the family, (2) families needing support in the recovery process, (3) obstacles due to social stigma, and (4) family gratitude for being able to pass the test patiently.

Conclusion:

The schizophrenia family’s journey in the recovery process is very long. They are required to endure in assisting the recovery process. Experiences felt by the family include feelings, obstacles, and hopes that arise in carrying out their role to assist the recovery process which aims to improve the health of schizophrenia patients. The findings from this study provide insight for nurses to be able to pay attention to family psychological problems by strengthening families through home visits and health promotion related to the recovery process of survivor schizophrenia.
The impact of foot reflexology on fatigue and sleep quality in school-aged children undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Mohamed Amal Hashem , Shaban Mostafa , Mohammed Huda Hamdy , Abobaker Randa Mohamed , Alsaqri Salman Hamdan , Allam Rania Abd-Elnaby Mohammed
Published: May 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of foot reflexology on fatigue and sleep quality in school-aged children receiving hemodialysis.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental pretest–posttest design was utilized. Thirty children of ages 6–12 undergoing in-center hemodialysis were recruited. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and Inventory of Fatigue Symptom (IFS) scales were administered at baseline. Participants then received 30 min of foot reflexology massage before hemodialysis sessions 3 days per week for 12 weeks. Posttest administration of the sleep and fatigue scales occurred after the intervention period.

Results:

Reflexology massage led to significant improvements in sleep quality components, including duration (0%–30% normal sleepers), efficiency (0%–50% >85%), latency (50%–0% >60 min), disturbances, and daytime dysfunction. The mean PSQI score decreased from 18.2 to 9.7 (P < 0.05). Fatigue severity substantially decreased, with the mean IFS score improving from 105.7 to 64.1 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

Foot reflexology is an effective nursing intervention for reducing fatigue and improving sleep quality in children on hemodialysis, warranting integration into routine care.
Nasolabial Cyst: A Narrative Review
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: May 2024

The nasolabial cyst is a soft-tissue cyst, nonodontogenic in origin that occurs in the sublabial area and anterior maxillary region. The nasolabial cyst is a rare lesion found behind the ala nasi, extending backward into the inferior meatus of the nasal cavity and forward into the labio-gingival sulcus. The patient with nasolabial cyst often presents with painless swelling and sometimes nasal obstruction. The diagnosis of nasolabial cyst is usually diagnosed in an early stage due to cosmetic facial deformity. The final diagnosis of the nasolabial cyst needs a correlation of the clinical presentations, surgical findings, and histopathological information. There are several treatment options described for the treatment of nasolabial cysts. The current treatment of choice for nasolabial cyst is complete excision through sublabial approach. The postoperative complications may include facial/perinasal swelling, facial numbness, and toothache. The postoperative chance of recurrence is rare. The objective of this review article is to familiarize the readers with this uncommon clinical entity such as nasolabial cyst with its prevalence, etiopathology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.
Evaluation and Management of Mechanical Infertility Using Minimal Access Surgery
Authors: Khanyari Insha Jan , Yousuf Sabia , Beigh Mehbooba , Naseer Syed , Khurshid Nadia , Shera Faiz Altaf
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Tubal and peritoneal pathologies are one of the most common causes responsible for female infertility corresponding to 30%–40% of cases. The use of combined hysteroscopy and laparoscopy (HL) has now become a gold standard in the diagnosis and subsequent treatment of these pathologies.

Aim of the Study:

(1) Evaluation of infertile females for tubal and uterine pathologies using combined HL as a diagnostic aid. (2) To find out the feasibility of providing therapeutic management concurrently.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted from 2018 to 2019 on 100 married females in the age group of 20–45 years with primary or secondary infertility of > 1-year duration after ruling out male causes and hormonal causes of infertility. Laparoscopy and hysteroscopy were performed in a single session; methylene blue dye testing was done. Any relevant positive findings on hysterolaparoscopy were noted, and the incidence of different lesions was calculated. Surgical procedures wherever possible were carried out and tabulated accordingly.

Results:

Out of all patients subjected to combined HL, positive findings were noted in 76% of the cases. The most common hysteroscopic pathology in our patients was intrauterine adhesions (9.2%), followed by polyp (7.9%) and septum (6.6%). Similarly, on laparoscopy, the common findings were adhesions (23.7%), endometriosis (21.1%), myomas (17.1%), and hydrosalpinx (13.2%). Unilateral tubal block was seen in 15.8% and bilateral tubal block in 13.2% of the patients. Hysteroscopic procedures were done in 40.8% of the patients and laparoscopic procedures in 60.5% of the patients.

Conclusion:

From our study, we concluded that combined HL serves as an important diagnostic as well as a therapeutic modality in female infertility. Direct visualization of the uterine cavity and the ability to manipulate uterus and adnexa and perform any procedure required l(cannulation, septal resection, adhesiolysis etc.) all in a single session makes combined HL a far more superior tool for evaluation and treatment of infertility.
Serum Vitamin D Level and its Association with Early Pregnancy Failure
Authors: Shah Ruby Gulzar , Khanyari Insha Jan , Khursheed Rabiya , Nisar Peerzada Danish , Khurshid Nadia , Ahmad Aabida
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Vitamin D status during pregnancy has been drawing great attention in recent years. Studies indicate that Vitamin D plays an important role in the sustainability of pregnancy.

Aims:

The aims of this study were to study the serum Vitamin D levels in patients with early pregnancy failure and to compare and correlate the values with subjects who successfully take their pregnancy to the second trimester.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 200 patients were included in the study and were divided into two groups. Group A consisted of 100 women with early pregnancy failure. Group B consisted of 100 women who carried their pregnancy to the second trimester without any complications. The laboratory evaluation comprised the estimation of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels in the two groups, and the values were compared in the two groups.

Results:

The mean 25(OH)D concentration was 16.77 μg/L ± standard deviation (SD) for Group A and 28.71 μg/L ± SD for Group B. There was a strong correlation between low 25(OH)D levels and pregnancy loss; odds ratio 2.10, P < 0.001.

Conclusion:

From our study, we concluded that Vitamin D deficiency is associated with early pregnancy failure. It is advisable to consider prepregnancy Vitamin D screening in women having first-trimester pregnancy loss history.
Evaluation of Inpatients Medication Prescribing Practice at Ibrahim Malik Teaching Hospital: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Elamin Abda Kamaleldin E. , Ibrahim Rudaina Ali M. Nour , Ali Baraa Isam E. , Elhag Khabab A. , Yousef Bashir Alsiddig
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Prescribing errors account for almost 50% of medication errors and represent the eighth leading cause of death in the US. The current study aimed to evaluate inpatient prescribing practice by assessing adherence to prescription-writing guidelines and identifying the frequency and severity of drug-drug interactions (DDIs) and drug-disease interactions (DDSIs).

Methods:

An observational-descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among inpatient wards in Ibrahim Malik teaching hospital, Khartoum, Sudan. Total coverage sampling was performed and the sample size consisted of 132 prescriptions containing a total of 700 prescribed drugs. The data were collected from patients’ files, and the completeness of prescriptions was assessed according to national and international guidelines. Drug interactions were checked by the interaction checker of www.drug.com.

Results:

The overall prescription completeness was 0%, and the completeness of both prescriber data and medication data were 1.5%, (0.4% for Intravenous [IV] and 0.6% for non-IV drugs), respectively. The most missing elements of the prescription were duration and qualification. Moreover, only 25% of the prescribed drugs were written in the Prescription and Medication Administration Record or drug chart, but the rest were written elsewhere within the patient’s file. The prescriptions containing DDIs and DDSIs were 49.2% and 46.2%, respectively, ranging from major (9.1%), moderate, (40.9%), and minor (28%) for DDIs, major (30.3%), moderate (33.3%), and minor (0.8%) for DDSIs. The highest percentage of drug interactions was found in the internal medicine ward. Diabetes was significantly associated with both DDIs (P = 0.003) and DDSIs (P = 0.031).

Conclusion:

The findings of this study reflect a real problem in prescribing practice, as no prescription was considered to be complete, and nearly half of the patients were exposed to DDIs and/or DDSIs.