bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Status of Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness of Pregnant Women and Recently Delivered Women in Rural Varanasi
Authors: Pandey Pallavi , Srivastava Ratan K. , Kumari Kalpana , Pandey Malvika
Published: July 2022

Background:

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness is practise of planning for events related to child birth and making necessary arrangements, so that timely and adequate medical care can be provided to the mother.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess the Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness of pregnant and recently delivered women in rural areas of Varanasi.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 633 pregnant and recently delivered women were interviewed using 11 components related to antenatal care and preparations done for child birth.

Results:

Out of all the respondents, less than half (46.4%) among Pregnant women and nearly the same proportion (45.1%) among recently delivered women were found “Well Prepared.”

Conclusion:

The study revealed that there is a need to create awareness among the people about the importance of proper planning and making arrangements in advance to avert the danger to the life of mother and child.
Improving Adolescent Knowledge and Attitude toward the Intergenerational Cycle of Undernutrition through Audiovisual Education
Authors: Siswati Tri , Olfah Yustiana , Kasjono Heru Subaris , Paramashanti Bunga Astria
Published: July 2022

Background:

Adolescent health and nutrition contribute to the intergenerational cycle of undernutrition.

Objectives:

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of audiovisual education on adolescent knowledge and attitude toward the intergenerational cycle of undernutrition.

Material and Methods:

A clustered quasi-experimental study with a pre-and posttest design in Kulon Progo District, Yogyakarta, Indonesia. Participants were female adolescent students enrolled in Grade 7 at two junior high schools in Sentolo (n = 120) and Kalibawang (n = 96) subdistricts. We provided six topics related to adolescent health and nutrition throughout six online meetings for the intervention and control groups. In addition, the intervention group received audiovisual education through recorded videos, whereas the control group received education through e-leaflets following the online meetings. We assessed adolescent knowledge and attitude during pre-and posttest evaluations using Google Forms. Paired t-test was performed to analyze the data.

Results:

Both audiovisual and e-leaflet educations increased adolescent knowledge and attitude. Adolescents who received audiovisual education had significantly higher knowledge (P = 0.046) and attitude (P = 0.034) scores than adolescents who received education through e-leaflets.

Conclusions:

The audiovisual education intervention improved adolescent knowledge and attitude toward the intergenerational cycle of undernutrition than using e-leaflets.
Occupational Noise Induced Hearing Loss in India
Authors: Basu Saurav , Aggarwal Abhinav , Dushyant Kumar , Garg Suneela
Published: July 2022

Background:

India has over 50 million workers employed in industries with exposure to very high sound levels, predisposing them to noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL).

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by using the following criteria: (1) Observational or experimental studies conducted in India; (2) English language studies; (3) Published during January 2010–December 2019; (4) Primary outcome: proportion of participants detected with NIHL. We reviewed bibliographic databases (PubMed, Scopus, and DOAJ) and Google Scholar, and extracted the relevant data.

Results:

A total of 160 documents were identified after removing duplicates, and 33 full texts were screened, of which 22 studies were included. The mean (SD) effective sample size of the studies was 107.1 (78.9). The pooled proportion of participants with NIHL irrespective of the category was 0.49 (95%CI: 0.22–0.76) and that of hearing loss was 0.53 (95%CI: 0.28– 0.78). Most studies reported that none of the workers, especially in the informal sectors, used auditory protection.

Conclusions:

NIHL is a major neglected public health occupational health challenge in India linked with adverse social determinants of health. Sustained advocacy for implementation of legislative and behavior change communication for protecting the hearing of workers is warranted.
A Study on Epidemiology of Unintentional Childhood Injury at One of the Districts of Gujarat State
Authors: Dave Viral R. , Rana Bhavik M. , Shah Venu R. , Sonaliya Kantibhai N.
Published: July 2022

Context:

Childhood injuries are a less explored area of public health. In the presence of public health problems such as communicable and noncommunicable diseases, childhood injury has gained less attention from the health system.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of various types of unintentional injuries (UI) amongst children and to assess the factors associated with same.

Settings and Design:

The study was conducted at Ahmedabad District of Gujarat State, and this is a cross-sectional sStudy.

Subjects and Methods:

The current study was a part of a multicentric national level research supported by Indian Council of Medical Research. Total 11 sites were selected across India, which all followed a uniform methodology. One of the selected sites was Dholka taluka of Ahmedabad district, Gujarat. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2341 households. The study participants were children aged from 6 months up to 18 years. A total of 3018 children and their caretakers were interviewed using software-based questionnaire.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was performed by frequencies and Percentage, Chi-square Test, Z-Test.

Results:

The overall prevalence of injuries was 7.62%. Gender and area of residence were significantly associated with UI. Fall-related injuries had the highest prevalence (3.38%), followed by road traffic injuries (RTI) (1.62%). The prevalence of burn-related injuries and poisoning was higher among females compared to males. No mortality was observed due to UI.

Conclusions:

Majority of the injuries were of minor or trivial type. Fall-related injury and RTI were the most common types of UIs among children.
Assessing the Efficacy of a Tobacco Prevention and Control Intervention in a Rural Area of India
Authors: Chatterjee Nilesh , Kadam Rajashree , Patil Deepak , Chavan Ajay , Vernekar Durga Ashok
Published: July 2022

Background:

Tobacco use, disproportionately higher in rural areas, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in India. Interventions to reduce tobacco use in rural areas are scarce.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to assess the efficacy of a community-directed tobacco prevention intervention in reducing tobacco use in rural areas.

Materials and Methods:

A single-group pre-/postquasi-experimental study was conducted in Lakhmapur village, Maharashtra. Data were collected from one adult each in 296 and 307 randomly selected village households before and at the end of intervention, respectively.

Results:

Between pretest and posttest, reported tobacco use reduced from 56.4% to 23.5%; average daily expenditure on tobacco from INR 16.07 to INR 9.47, respectively. A logistic model, controlling for sociodemographic variables, showed that the postintervention group had a significantly lower likelihood of using tobacco; however, males and lower education subgroups were more likely to use.

Conclusions:

Multipronged community-based interventions involving schools, students, teachers, frontline workers, elected leaders, and community influencers hold promise in reducing tobacco use in rural India.
Hepatitis B Surface Antibody Levels among Health-Care Personnel Vaccinated against Hepatitis B in a Teaching Hospital in South India
Authors: Thomas Bina , Mohandas Anu , Jayadev V. K. , Bindu V.
Published: July 2022

Background:

Hepatitis B virus infection is a global health priority, and health-care personnel (HCP) have 10 times higher prevalence than the general population. Seromonitoring identifies those with low titers and vaccine nonresponders with increased risk.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess hepatitis B surface antibody (anti-HBs) titers and associated factors among HCP vaccinated against hepatitis B in a teaching hospital in Kerala.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done among 454 vaccinated HCP, and anti-HBs antibody titers were assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method.

Results:

Participants included 162 (35.7%) doctors, 132 (29.3%) nursing and laboratory personnel, and 160 (35.3%) supporting staff. The mean age was 38.06 ± 11.33 years, and 72% were female. Majority (92.5%, 420) were seroprotected and 78.9% (358) with high (>100 mIU) titers. Moderate (10–100 mIU) and low (<10 mIU) level seroprotection was seen in 13.7% (62) and 7.5% (34), respectively. Incomplete vaccination, >10 years since vaccination, and age >40 years were independent predictors for poor seroprotection, while increasing doses and boosters were positively associated.

Conclusions:

Majority of vaccinated HCP were seroprotected. Incomplete schedules, older age, and prolonged time since vaccination can lead to decline in titers, and periodical seromonitoring should guide hepatitis B revaccination strategies.
Performance Appraisal of Nutritional Rehabilitation Centers in Central India
Authors: Katole Ashwini , Naik Gitismita , Kujur Anubhuti , Kumar Mohan
Published: July 2022

Background:

Nutritional rehabilitation centers (NRCs) were established with the objective of providing institutional care to malnourished children and building the capacity of the primary caregivers of these children.

Objectives and Methodology:

The objective of this study was to assess the effect of nutritional interventional measures undertaken at NRCs in improving the nutritional status of admitted children; a retrospective facility-based descriptive study was conducted using the monthly performance reports (March 2015 to November 2019) of all NRCs in Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh.

Results:

Of the 3171 children registered in the NRCs, the majority were 1–3 years of age (59.22%), female children (55.50%), and from Other Backward Class caste category (56.79%). The district records a cure rate of 56.12%, death rate of 0.03%, and defaulter rate of 4.71%, with an average length of stay being 16.5 days. NRCs of Dhamtari district had less than acceptable level of recovery/cure rate though death rate and defaulter rate were within acceptable standards.

Conclusion:

Lower cure rate along with lower defaulter rate and death rate with more than recommended length of stay reflects the below-average performance of the NRCs in the district.
Quality of Referral, Admission Status, and Outcome of Neonates Referred to Pediatric Emergency of a Tertiary Care Institution in North India
Authors: Mishra Neeraj , Saini Shiv Sajan , Jayashree Muralidharan , Kumar Praveen
Published: July 2022

Background:

This study was planned to study the existing status of neonatal transport in North India after the introduction of National Ambulance Service (NAS). We evaluated the quality of referral, admission status, and outcome of referred neonates.

Materials and Methods:

We enrolled neonates admitted between March 2016 and October 2016, excluding neonates referred from the outpatient department. Information was collected from referral slips, interviewing accompanying persons and observation.

Results:

Sixty-one percent were referred from government hospitals with “sick newborn care units” contributing to maximum. The main mode of transport was ambulance in 80% and referral notes were available in the majority but incomplete in majority. Sepsis (39%), jaundice (16%), and birth asphyxia (13%) were the most common diagnoses. Half of the neonates were hemodynamically unstable. Twenty-seven percent had poor circulation, 15% were hypoxic, 9% hypoglycemic, and 8% hypothermic. Twenty-two percent either died or “left against medical advice” with a high probability of death.

Conclusion:

NAS is utilized for transporting neonates. However, there are quality gaps which need attention to develop it into efficient referral system.
Novel NR2F1 variant identified by whole-exome sequencing in a patient with Bosch–Boonstra–Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome
Authors: Kocaaga Ayca , Yimenicioglu Sevgi , Gürsoy Haluk Hüseyin
Published: July 2022

Bosch–Boonstra–Schaaf optic atrophy syndrome (BBSOAS) is an extremely rare autosomal dominant disorder characterized by intellectual disability, developmental delay, seizures, hypotonia, hearing loss, and optic nerve atrophy. This syndrome is caused by loss-of-function variants in the nuclear receptor subfamily 2 group F member 1 (NR2F1) gene. To date, approximately 80 patients have been reported with BBSOAS. Here, we describe a 3-year-old infant with delayed development, intellectual disability, strabismus, nystagmus, and optic atrophy with well-characterized features associated with BBSOAS. Whole-exome sequencing revealed a novel heterozygous missense mutation (NM_005654.6:c.437G>A, p.Cys146Tyr) in the NR2F1 gene. This missense variant is predicted to be deleterious by the protein prediction tools (SIFT, PolyPhen-2, and MutationTaster). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first patient with BBSOAS reported from Turkey.
“Stay Back Technique” of scleral fixation of decentred intraocular lensbag complex
Authors: Shekhar Madhu , P Ramya Menon
Published: July 2022

Background:

Even though rare, posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL)-bag complex dislocation is a serious complication following cataract surgery. Preoperative trauma or zonular weakness, capsule contraction syndrome, and surgical or postoperative trauma to the zonules have been proposed as the causative mechanism. Various risk factors have been described such as pseudoexfoliation (PXF), aging, high myopia, uveitis, trauma, previous vitreoretinal surgery, retinitis pigmentosa, diabetes mellitus, and connective tissue disorders, among which PXF is the most common risk factor. The management of late IOL-bag complex dislocation poses a challenge even for an experienced surgeon.

Purpose:

To demonstrate the “stay back technique” of scleral fixation of decentered IOL-bag complex.

Synopsis:

We demonstrate three cases of scleral fixation of anteriorly dislocated IOL-bag complex. The first two cases are traumatic subluxation of IOL-bag complex and the third case is late decentration of both the haptics in a case of PXF. A scleral flap/groove is made along the area of haptic dislocation. Dislocated haptic is allowed to stay in the same position and one arm of 9-0 prolene suture is passed between the optic-haptic junction and docked in a 26-gauge needle passed beneath the scleral flap, 2 mm from the limbus. Haptic is then repositioned beneath the iris and the second arm of prolene suture is passed above the haptic. Sutures are pulled underneath the scleral flap and secured with 5 to 6 knots.

Highlights:

This is a simplified approach of scleral fixation of anteriorly dislocated IOL-bag complex. This novel technique gives better visualization of the optic-haptic junction during the passage of prolene suture.

Online Video Link:

https://youtu.be/vKQCR0fow68
Genetic testing in four Indian families with suspected Stickler syndrome
Authors: Kandeeban Suganya , Kandale Kaustubh , Periyasamy Porkodi , Bhende Muna , Bhende Pramod , Mathavan Sinnakaruppan , Sarangapani Sripriya
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

Stickler syndrome is associated with the development of rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD), and often presents with ocular, auditory, skeletal, and orofacial abnormalities. Molecular analysis has proven effective in diagnosis, confirmation and classification of the disease. We aimed to describe the utility of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in genetic analysis of four Indian families with suspected Stickler syndrome.

Methods:

The index cases presented with retinal detachment with family history. Genetic analysis in the index case was performed by next-generation sequencing of inherited retinal degeneration genes, and validated by Sanger sequencing followed by co-segregation analysis in the other family members.

Results:

Twenty patients were included for the genetic analysis (15 males and 5 females from four families). Clinical details were available for 15 patients (30 eyes). Fourteen eyes (11 patients) developed RRD. In the 16 eyes without RRD, 8 underwent barrage laser to lattice degeneration and 8 were under observation. Disease segregating heterozygous mutations with pathogenic/likely pathogenic effect was identified in COL2A1 (c.4318-1G>A, c.141G>A, c.1221+1G>A for 3 families) and COL11A1 (c.1737+1 G>A for 1 family) gene. In addition to the mutation in the COL2A1 gene, a pathogenic heterozygous variant associated with risk for arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy (ARVC) was identified in one member.

Conclusion:

NGS testing confirmed the presence of the causative gene for Stickler syndrome in the index case followed by evaluation of family members and confirmation of genetic and ocular findings. We believe that this may be the first such report of families with RRD from India.
Clinical and visual electrophysiological characteristics of vitelliform macular dystrophies in the first decade of life
Authors: Padhy Srikanta Kumar , Parameswarappa Deepika C , Agarwal Komal , Takkar Brijesh , Behera Shashwat , Panchal Bhavik , Ramappa Muralidhar , Padhi Tapas Ranjan , Jalali Subhadra
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To evaluate patterns of pediatric vitelliform macular dystrophy (PVMD).

Methods:

This is a retrospective analysis of Indian children with vitelliform macular dystrophy (VMD) presenting within the first decade of life. Records were evaluated for clinical findings, family screening, and investigative findings including optical coherence tomography (OCT), fundus autofluorescence (FAF), full-field electroretinogram (ERG) and electrooculogram (EOG). Electrophysiology was scrutinized and audited for acquisition and interpretation errors. Findings on follow-up were also recorded.

Results:

46 eyes of 24 patients were included. Mean age at presentation was 7.17 ± 2.17 years. Mean follow-up duration was 1.55 ± 1.69 years. Best disease was the commonest type of VMD detected (21 patients), while autosomal recessive bestrophinopathy was seen in three cases. Mean logMAR BCVA was 0.364 which decreased to 0.402 on follow-up. Hyperopia was noted in 29 out of 46 eyes (mean being +3.87 D, range ebing +0.75 to +8.75 D). Four eyes of four children had choroidal neovascular membrane at presentation, while another child developed while in follow-up. Solid type subretinal deposit was the commonest OCT finding (n = 29/38) and central hyper FAF was the commonest pattern (n = 18/32). EOG was available for review in 32 eyes, but was unreliable in 11 eyes. Seven eyes demonstrated complete absence of light rise on EOG.

Conclusion:

PVMD can present in advanced forms. Progression to complications with loss of visual acuity can happen within the first decade of life. EOG shows grossly suppressed waveforms in the light phase in a large number of such children.
Retinitis pigmentosa in Laurence-Moon-Bardet-Biedl syndrome in India: Electronic medical records driven big data analytics: Report II
Authors: Parameswarappa Deepika C , Das Anthony V , Thakur Pratima S , Takkar Brijesh , Multani Prabhjot K , Padhy Srikant K , Doctor Mariya B , Agarwal Komal , Jalali Subhadra
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To describe the clinical presentation and demographic distribution of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in Laurence–Moon–Bardet–Biedl (LMBB) syndrome patients.

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional observational hospital-based study wherein 244 patients with RP in LMBB syndrome presenting to our hospital network between March 2012 and October 2020 were included. An electronic medical record database was used for data retrieval.

Results:

There were 244 patients in total, with a hospital-based prevalence rate of 0.010% or 1000/100,000 population. The mean and median age of patients was 15.22 ± 7.56 and 14 (IQR: 10–18.5) years, respectively, with the majority being in the age group of 11–20 years (133/244 patients; 54.50%). Males were more commonly affected (164 patients; 67.21%), and the majority (182 patients; 74.59%) were students. All 244 patients (100%) complained of defective central vision at presentation. More than one-fourth of the patients had severe visual impairment to blindness at presentation. Prominent retinal feature at presentation was diffuse or widespread retinal pigment epithelial degeneration in all patients.

Conclusion:

Patients with RP in LMBB syndrome present mainly in the first to second decade of life with severe visual acuity impairment to blindness early in life. It is important to rule out LMBB syndrome in early-onset RP with central visual acuity impairment. On the contrary, all patients diagnosed or suspected with LMBB syndrome systemic features at physician clinic should also be referred for ophthalmic evaluation, low vision assessment, rehabilitation, and vice versa.
Retinitis pigmentosa in Usher syndrome in India: Electronic medical records driven big data analytics: Report III
Authors: Parameswarappa Deepika C , Das Anthony Vipin , Doctor Mariya Bashir , Natarajan Ramya , Agarwal Komal , Jalali Subhadra
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To describe the clinical presentation and demographic distribution of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) in patients with Usher syndrome (USH).

Methods:

This is a cross-sectional observational hospital-based study including patients presenting between March 2012 and October 2020. In total, 401 patients with a clinical diagnosis of USH and RP in at least one eye were included as cases. The data were retrieved from the electronic medical record database. For better analysis, all 401 patients were reclassified into three subtypes (type 1, type 2, and type 3) based on the USH criteria.

Results:

In total, there were 401 patients with USH and RP, with a hospital-based prevalence rate of 0.02% or 2/10,000 population. Further, 353/401 patients were subclassified, with 121 patients in type 1, 146 patients in type 2, and 86 patients in the type 3 USH group. The median age at presentation was 27 years (IQR: 17.5–38) years. There were 246 (61.35%) males and 155 (38.65%) females. Males were more commonly affected in all three subtypes. Defective night vision was the predominant presenting feature in all types of USH (type 1: 43 (35.54%), type 2: 68 (46.58%), and type 3: 40 (46.51%) followed by defective peripheral vision. Patients with type 2 USH had more eyes with severe visual impairment.

Conclusion:

RP in USH is commonly bilateral and predominantly affects males in all subtypes. Patients with USH and RP will have more affection of peripheral vision than central vision. The key message of our study is early visual and hearing rehabilitation in USH patients with prompt referral to otolaryngologists from ophthalmologists and vice versa.
Coloboma associated retinal detachment: Anatomical and functional results in the era of microincision vitrectomy surgery with an evaluation of risk factors for a recurrence
Authors: Shenoy Pratik , Katre Prashant S , Kohli Gaurav M , Sen Alok , Agarwal Manisha
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To analyze the anatomical and visual outcomes of microincision vitrectomy surgery (MIVS) with silicone oil tamponade in eyes having coloboma-related retinal detachment (RD) and evaluate the risk factors for recurrence of RD.

Methods:

This was a retrospective, multicentric analysis of eyes having coloboma RD undergoing MIVS with silicone oil tamponade between March 2010 and July 2018.

Results:

We evaluated 148 eyes of 144 patients. The mean age of presentation was 17.4 ± 9.8 years (range: 2–65 years) and the mean follow-up duration was 13.1 ± 13.8 months (range: 3–84 months). The single operation success rate was 88.5% (131 eyes), with an overall successful outcome achieved in 90.5% (134 eyes). Recurrence of RD occurred in 17 eyes (11.5%) over a mean duration of 2.59 ± 3 months. The risk of recurrence was found to be higher in eyes where relaxing retinectomy (RR) was performed (odds ratio [OR]: 3.22; P = 0.05). A statistically significant improvement in vision was noted in the majority of cases from logMAR 1.85 ± 0.34 preoperatively to logMAR 1.33 ± 0.6 post-surgery (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

MIVS with silicone oil tamponade provided an anatomical success rate of 90.5% in eyes with coloboma RD with a significant improvement in visual acuity. Eyes in which RR was performed were susceptible to higher rates of re-detachment.
A systematic approach to the management of microspherophakia
Authors: Venkataraman Prasanna , Haripriya Aravind , Mohan Neethu , Rajendran Anand
Published: July 2022

Microspherophakia is a rare developmental abnormality of the crystalline lens with a myriad of ocular and systemic associations. Glaucoma is a serious complication associated with this disorder. Early identification of the disease, timely visual rehabilitation, and appropriate management of the lens and glaucoma can help us prevent blindness from this condition. Multidisciplinary care with lifelong follow-up is recommended, as this typically affects the younger population. Current treatment protocols for this condition are mainly based on case reports and retrospective studies with shorter follow-up. Due to the rarity of this disease, designing a large randomized controlled trial to identify the merits and demerits of each management strategy is challenging. With cataract, glaucoma, and vitreoretinal specialists, each having their preferred way of managing microspherophakic lenses, we decided to do a comprehensive review of the existing literature to devise an integrated approach toward effective management of these patients. This review will collate all evidence and provide a very practical decision-making tree for its management.
Brittle cornea syndrome: A tale of three brothers
Authors: Mandlik Kunal , Betdur Rakesh A , Rashmita R , Narayana Shivananda
Published: July 2022

Brittle cornea syndrome (BCS) is a genetic connective tissue disorder with discernible ocular features such as blue scleral and thin cornea that predominantly presents in younger children. We herein describe cases of three siblings with BCS, two of whom presented to us with open globe injuries following trivial trauma. Clinical examination of the other eye in both showed diffusely thin corneas and blue sclera. A systemic evaluation revealed sensorineural hearing loss and hyperextensible joints. The third sibling was screened and found to have features concurrent with BCS. This report highlights the challenges faced in the management of ocular injuries and consecutive complications in these patients.
Homocystinuria and ocular complications – A review
Authors: Rahman Mehzabeen , Sharma Mohita , Aggarwal Pragati , Singla Silkee , Jain Neha
Published: July 2022

Homocystinuria is a rare metabolic inborn disorder caused due to dysfunctional cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) enzyme activity, thus resulting in elevated levels of methionine and homocysteine in the blood and urine. The timely recognition of this rare metabolic disorder and prompt methionine-restricted diet are crucial in lessening the systemic consequences. The recalcitrant cases have a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases, neural tube defects, and other severe clinical complications. This review aims to present the ophthalmic spectrum of homocystinuria and its molecular basis, the disease management, as well as the current and potential treatment approaches with a greater emphasis on preventive strategies.
A bibliometric analysis of research on genetic retinal diseases done in India
Authors: Kumaragurupari Ravichandran , Mishra Chitaranjan
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

To conduct a bibliometric analysis of research on genetic retinal diseases (GRD) done in India published from 2011 to 2020 in peer-reviewed journals, and assess the productivity, trends in journal choice, publication types, research funding, and collaborative research.

Methods:

We searched PubMed for articles indicating both vision-related content and author affiliation with an Indian research center. We identified research collaborations and classified articles as reporting basic science, clinical science, or clinically descriptive research. Impact factors were determined from Journal Citation Reports for 2015.

Results:

The total number of published articles that were retrieved from 2011 to 2021 was 341. During the 10 years of study, the annual output of research articles has nearly doubled, that is, from 21 in 2011 to 44 in 2021. A total of 298 (87%) articles were published in international journals, and 149 (42%) articles in vision-related journals had an impact factor. A total of 224 (65%) articles came from six major eye hospitals. Clinical science articles were most frequently (86%) published, whereas basic science was the least (14%). The diseases on which the maximum and the minimum number of articles were published were retinoblastoma (n = 82,24%) and Stargardt disease (n = 3, 0.9%), respectively.

Conclusion:

This bibliometric study provides a broad view of the current status and trends in the research on GRD done in India and may help clinicians, researchers, and policymakers to better understand this research field and predict its dynamic directions.
Genetic dissection of non-syndromic retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Bhardwaj Aarti , Yadav Anshu , Yadav Manoj , Tanwar Mukesh
Published: July 2022

Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) belongs to a group of pigmentary retinopathies. It is the most common form of inherited retinal dystrophy, characterized by progressive degradation of photoreceptors that leads to nyctalopia, and ultimately, complete vision loss. RP is distinguished by the continuous retinal degeneration that progresses from the mid-periphery to the central and peripheral retina. RP was first described and named by Franciscus Cornelius Donders in the year 1857. It is one of the leading causes of bilateral blindness in adults, with an incidence of 1 in 3000 people worldwide. In this review, we are going to focus on the genetic heterogeneity of this disease, which is provided by various inheritance patterns, numerosity of variations and inter-/intra-familial variations based upon penetrance and expressivity. Although over 90 genes have been identified in RP patients, the genetic cause of approximately 50% of RP cases remains unknown. Heterogeneity of RP makes it an extremely complicated ocular impairment. It is so complicated that it is known as “fever of unknown origin”. For prognosis and proper management of the disease, it is necessary to understand its genetic heterogeneity so that each phenotype related to the various genetic variations could be treated.
A Case Report of Pancytopenia Associated with Sheehan's Syndrome that Resolved with Hormone Replacement
Authors: Bhatta Ajay , Singh Rati , Chawla Raghuraj , Pradeep Megha
Published: July 2022

Pancytopenia is an uncommon hematological finding in patients with Sheehan's syndrome. Our case is an adult female who presented after 12 years of severe postpartum hemorrhage with symptomatic hypoglycemic attacks and pancytopenia on hemogram. Hormone replacement corrected pancytopenia within a week.
An Analysis of Proposed Etiological Factors for Sudden Spike in Mucormycosis Infection During COVID-19 Pandemic at a Tertiary Hospital of North India
Authors: Singh Akhil Pratap , Agrawal Prabhat , Kumar Vikas
Published: July 2022

Aim:

The aim is to analyze various possible etiological factors for the sudden outbreak of mucormycosis.

Methods:

A prospective observational study involving consecutive individuals with proven mucormycosis was undertaken at a tertiary care teaching hospital in North India from May 2021 to July 2021. A total of 88 patients with mucormycosis were studied for the demographic profile, COVID-19 status, various risk factors, COVID-19 immunization status, clinical staging of disease, and outcome of patients.

Results:

Out of 88 patients, 54 (61%) were males and 34 (39%) were females. The mean age of male patients was 50.5 ± 13.8 and female patients was 52.1 ± 14.1. Most of the patients were in stage two, i.e., 45 (51.1%) and 26 (29.5%) in stage three of the disease. Past history of diabetes was present in 49 (55%) patients. Forty-one (46.6%) patients had documented Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR) reports in favor of COVID-19 and others had clinical features consistent with COVID-19. Only 1% of patient took COVID-vaccination. Of the total 88 patients, 42 (47%) were on oxygen therapy, 72 (81%) had history of blood transfusion, and 48 (54%) were given steroids.

Conclusions:

No conclusive etiological factor was identified although few recommendations are suggested for prevention, early diagnosis, and prompt management of mucormycosis in hospitalized COVID-19 patients.
Leiomyosarcoma causing obstructive uropathy and acute renal failure
Authors: Radhika Y. , Reddy Pranathi , Rewatkar Nitin Ashok
Published: July 2022

A 41-year-old nulliparous woman presented to the hospital with lower abdominal pain for 15 days and constipation since 1 week and acute retention of urine for 3 days. Ultrasound revealed enlarged uterus with a large posterior wall fibroid with degenerative changes and bilateral mild hydro ureteronephrosis and MRI pelvis with contrast showed 17 × 10 × 12 cm pelvic mass along the posterior wall of the uterus with cystic degeneration and necrosis minimal haemorrhage with multiple fibrotic strands. Enlarged bilateral external internal, right iliac and lymph nodes noted. Laboratory evaluation revealed an elevated urea 101 mg/dl and creatinine levels 9.4 mg/dL with normal myoglobin levels (39 ng/mL). The patient was haemodynamically stable with serum electrolytes and ABG normal. After taking a nephrologist and urologist opinion and proper counselling for exploratory laparotomy +/- hysterectomy, proceeded with total abdominal hysterectomy. Immediate improvement of renal parameters and reversal of renal failure was noted and
Prevalence of COVID-19 Infection Among Asymptomatic Ophthalmic Surgical Patients Undergoing Ophthalmic Procedures at University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja
Authors: Muhammad Rilwan Chiroma , Bisiriyu Oluwatosin Emmanuel
Published: July 2022

Purpose:

The aim of this article is to determine the prevalence of COVID-19 infection among asymptomatic ophthalmic patients undergoing ophthalmic procedures at University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of records of all consecutive ophthalmic patients who had pre-operative reverse transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction testing for COVID-19 screening before an elective surgical procedure between July 2020 and January 2021 was done. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to extract the following information from eligible patients’ case records: age, gender, results of COVID-19 tests, type of ophthalmic surgical procedure done, and ocular examination findings and diagnosis.

Results:

Out of the 150 patients scheduled for surgical procedures within the study period, only 14 (9.3%) returned a positive test result. These patients had their surgeries postponed and were asked to return with negative results 2 weeks later. No association was found between gender, age, or type of surgical procedure and the prevalence of COVID-19 infection.

Conclusion:

This study found that 1 in 11 patients scheduled for elective ophthalmic procedure was a carrier of COVID-19 infection, highlighting the need for regular pre-operative testing in order to reduce the risk of spread of infection to healthcare workers and other hospitalized patients.
Gynatresia with Cryptomenorrhea Following Cesarean Section after Failed Vacuum Extraction
Authors: Adze Joel A. , Bature Stephen B. , Durosinlorun Amina Mohammed , Caleb Mohammed , Taingson Matthew C , Moroof Suleman O.
Published: July 2022

Acquired Gynaetresia is underreported in developing countries and is usually due to harmful cultural practices. It may result from obstructed labor or labor trauma. This is a rare case report of a 26-year-old P1 + 0 who presented with no penetration during coitus and history of amenorrhea about 1 year and 7 months after cesarean delivery. Failed attempts at vacuum extraction were made before surgery. She was investigated and a diagnosis of Gynaetresia with cryptomenorrhea was confirmed. She had vaginoplasty and menstrual and sexual functions were established. Postpartum genital examination should be ensured, no matter the mode of delivery to ensure Gynaetresia is diagnosed early and managed promptly.
Prevalence and Antifungal Susceptibility of Candida Species Isolated from HIV Seropositive Women Attending Gynecological Clinic in Kaduna, Nigeria
Authors: Taingson Matthew C. , Ige Oluwafemi , Adze Joel , Bature Stephen , Durosinlorun Amina Mohammed , Mohammed Caleb , Abubakar Amina , Airede L. R.
Published: July 2022

Context:

Candidal vulvovaginitis causes discomfort and increased HIV infectivity because viral shedding is increased among these women.

Aim:

To determine the prevalence of Candida infections among HIV seropositive women in the special treatment (STC) and the gynecological clinics of Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital and the antifungal susceptibility patterns of the isolates.

Study Design:

We conducted a cross-sectional study among HIV-positive women accessing care in our hospital.

Methods and Materials:

A total of 312 high vaginal swabs (HVS) were collected from HIV seropositive women with clinical features of vulvovaginitis between February and July 2019. Wet mount preparations in potassium hydroxide (KOH) and Gram stained smears were performed directly on specimens. Cultures for Candida species were performed using Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) (Oxoid, UK) at room temperature (28°C) and in the incubator at 37 °C. Antifungal susceptibility of the Candida species to amphotericin B, clotrimazole, fluconazole, and miconazole was assessed using the ATB FUNGUS 4 test kits (bioMerieux, Marcy l'Etoile, France).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data collected were analyzed using SPSS, Version 23.

Results:

Out of the 312 HVS cultured, 40 yielded Candida species giving a point prevalence of 12.8% in the study population. Candida species isolated from HVS specimens were Candida tropicalis (n = 14, 4.5%), Candida glabrata (n = 13, 4.2%), Candida krusei (n = 11, 3.5%), Candida dubliniensis (n = 1, 0.3%), and others C. glabrata/C. tropicalis (n = 1, 0.3%). Susceptibility of the isolates to antifungal agents ranged from 27.5% to 52.5%. Amphotericin B was the best performing antifungal agent with a sensitivity of 52.5%.

Conclusion:

The prevalence from our study was low compared to other studies among HIV seropositive women.
Cross Testicular Ectopia
Authors: Abdullahi Lawal Barau , Mohammad Mohammad Aminu , Anyanwu Lofty-John Chukwumeka
Published: July 2022

Cross testicular ectopia is an extremely rare congenital anomaly affecting male children. It is a deviation of testicular descent resulting in unilateral location of both testes which poses a problem in diagnosis and treatment among clinician in the world. Over a period of 4years 4 cases of testicular ectopia were managed by our unit. All of our patients presented as outpatient. The record of their presentation, surgical management and the outcome of the treatment were studied and documented. The age ranges between 2 to 6years. All of the patients had trans septal orchidopexy as a day case surgery. Cross testicular ectopia is rare congenital urologic condition but the outcome of its management seem to be good, however long term follow up is required to evaluate the testicular function.
Diphtheria Outbreak During Covid-19 Pandemic in Katsina, North-Western Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Olayinka R. , Lawal Ibrahim M. , Mohammed Bashir , Abdullahi Suleiman Bello , Bello Surajudeen O. , Issa Amudalat , Sanda Abdallah , Suleiman Bello M. , Ibrahim Mu'uta
Published: July 2022

Context:

The impact of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on vaccine-preventable diseases, including diphtheria, may hamper the previous gains made in the eradication of the disease.

Aims:

We report the epidemiological profile, clinical features, laboratory findings, and hospitalization outcomes amongst cases of diphtheria managed at Federal Medical Centre, Katsina, Nigeria during the first wave of COVID-19 pandemic.

Settings and Design:

This was a retrospective review of cases of diphtheria managed between July and December 2020.

Methods and Material:

We extracted the clinical (socio-demographics, clinical features, and hospitalization outcomes) and laboratory findings (full blood counts, electrolytes, urea and creatinine) from the record of the children.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Using SPSS, we carried out a descriptive analysis and applied binary logistic regression to determine factors associated with death. Level of statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results:

A total of 35 cases of diphtheria were admitted and managed from 1 July to 31 December 2020. The mean age of the children was 7.6 ± 3.1 years. Males were 15 (42.9%). There were 24 deaths (case fatality of 68.6%). Clinical findings were comparable between survivors and non-survivors except the bull neck, which was more common among non-survivors (P = 0.022). The median duration of hospitalization was shorter in those that died (P = 0.001). The age, sex, immunization status, leukocytosis, and biochemical features of renal impairments were not predictive of deaths. Prescence of bull neck was predictive of death (adjusted odds ratio 2.115, 95% CI 1.270, 3.521).

Conclusions:

The study shows a high number of cases of diphtheria over a short period of six months with high mortality. Amongst the clinical and laboratory variables, only presence of bull neck was predictive of death.
Efficacy of Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Dento-Maxillofacial Swellings among an Urban Population in Nigeria
Authors: Adamu Yahuza Mansur , Hassan Maryam Olaitan , Abba Mohammed , Amole Olushola , Garba Idris , Dare Akintade
Published: July 2022

Context:

Ultrasonography as an imaging modality in dentistry has been explored in recent years. It is particularly useful in the examination of superficial structures where the use of a high frequency linear transducer produces clearer sonographic images.

Aim:

To evaluate the efficacy of ultrasound when compared with other known diagnostic examinations.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective cross-sectional study involving patients with maxillofacial swellings in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital. They were classified as malignant neoplasms, benign cysts, abscesses and infections and lymphoma, according to clinical, radiographic and ultrasound and diagnosis independently. The findings from these methods were then compared to the gold standard histologic findings. Chi-square test, Pearson contingency coefficient, and 2 x 2 contingency table were used in evaluating the diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity as well as the specificity of the examinations.

Results:

A total of 36 patients comprising 21 males and 15 females with mean age of 34.97 years were recruited. Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound was 50% in the diagnosis of malignant tumors, 95.8% in benign cystic swellings, 50% in abscesses and infections, and 100% in lymphoma. Significant relationship exists between ultrasonography with histology, clinical and radiographic diagnosis with a contingency coefficient of 0.833, 0.759, and 0.798, respectively. Overall, the accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound was 86.1%, 90.3%, and 60%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Ultrasonography provides accurate imaging of the maxillofacial region and provides information about the pathological characteristic of lesion, its extent, and relationship with the surrounding structures. Inclusion of ultrasonography to the clinical and histopathological examinations increases the accuracy of orofacial swelling diagnosis.
Success Rate of Endotracheal Intubation
Authors: Nasir Usman , Dalhat Salahu , Atiku Mamuda , Mustapha Abdullahi , Saheed Adesope , Adam Ahmad , Mohammad Abdullahi , Ado Ahmed
Published: July 2022

Context:

Direct laryngoscopy (DL) remains the most popular method of endotracheal intubation despite the availability of easier methods like intubating laryngeal mask airway (ILMA)—a blind intubation aid with a high success rate of intubation even when employed by novices.

Aim:

This study compared the overall success rate of intubation using ILMA and DL during elective surgeries requiring intubation.

Study Design:

This was a comparative randomized study.

Patients and Methods:

Following the institutional ethical approval, 86 American Society of Anaesthesiologists physical status (ASA) I and II patients were randomized into DL and ILMA groups. Each received intravenous fentanyl 2 μg/kg, glycopyrrolate 4 μg/kg, intravenous propofol 3 mg/kg, suxamethonium 2 mg/kg to a maximum of 100 mg. Intubation was with DL in the first group and ILMA in the second group. Anesthesia was maintained with isoflurane and muscle relaxation with atracurium. The overall success rate, the success rate at the first attempt of intubation, time for intubation, and airway complications were assessed.

Statistical analysis:

Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 21.0. The quantitative variables were analyzed using the Student's t-test and qualitative using the Chi-square test. A P value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

The success at insertion was 100% in the DL group and 95.3% with ILMA at the first attempt (P = 0.15). The success rate of intubation at the first attempt was 100 and 79.1% in the DL and ILMA groups, respectively. The mean time for intubation was 19.93 ± 6.17 and 46.54 ± 11.63 s in DL and ILMA, respectively (P = 0.001). Six patients (14%) had airway complications in the ILMA group.

Conclusion:

The overall success rate of intubation via ILMA is comparable to that of DL. In patients with normal airways, DL remains a comparatively faster and easier technique to secure the airway with tracheal intubation than ILMA.
Sonographic Evaluation of Liver Dimension among Apparently Healthy Pediatrics in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Sidi Mohammed , Idris Ahmad S. , Hassan Aliyu A. , Mansur Umar , Muhammad Hassan , Yakubu Adamu
Published: July 2022

Context:

Establishing normal liver size is critical in the diagnosis and determining the treatment method for the underlying liver pathology.

Aims:

This study aimed at evaluating liver dimensions of apparently healthy pediatrics using ultrasonography in Kano metropolis, Nigeria.

Settings and Design:

This cross-sectional study was conducted in Kano Metropolis, Nigeria, from May 2020 to August 2020.

Materials and Methods:

Four hundred and twenty-six apparently healthy pediatric subjects; 213 males and 213 females. The liver was examined with the patient in the supine position, the anteroposterior liver dimension was obtained in a transverse plane through the mid clavicular line from the hepatic dome to the inferior angle. Cranio-caudal liver dimension was obtained in a longitudinal plane with an oblique beam at the level where the widest diameter was demonstrated.

Statistical Analysis:

Both descriptive inferential statistics were employed for the data analysis. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 23.0 was used for the data analysis and P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Result:

The mean cranio-caudal liver dimension for male and female subjects were 9.28 ± 2.18 cm and 9.17 ± 2.19 cm, respectively, while the mean antero-posterior liver dimension for male and female subjects was 6.87 ± 1.92 cm and 6.74 ± 1.90 cm, respectively. A statistically significant difference between pediatric age groups was observed (p ≤ 0.001). However, there was no statistically significant difference in cranio-caudal and antero-posterior liver dimensions between male and female subjects (p ≥ 0.10, 0.24, 0.66, 0.30, 0.92, 0.33, and P ≥ 0.11, 0.79, 0.69, 0.45, 0.81, 0.29 for the respective pediatric age groups), respectively.

Conclusion:

References values for pediatric cranio-caudal and antero-posterior liver dimensions were established.