bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population-based repeat cross-sectional seroprevalence survey of SARS-CoV-2 IgG antibodies in Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation Area, Maharashtra, India
Authors: Bawa Mukesh S. , Desale Atul V. , Pandve Harshal T. , Nimbalkar Abhijit V. , Patil Tushar V. , Gophane Laxman P. , Dadewar Abhaychandra A. , Thatkar Pandurang , Dhage Shivaji T. , Kharat Medha K. , Bhavsar Shailaja M. , Firke Rajendra P. , Ambedkar Vijaya A. , Salve Sunita S. , Sagale Trupti M.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Population-based seroepidemiological studies are recommended to measure the extent of spread of coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) infection in an area. The present seroprevalence survey was planned with the aim to estimate the cumulative burden of the COVID-19 disease in the Pimpri Chinchwad corporation area.

Aims:

To estimate the cumulative burden of the COVID-19 disease in the Pimpri Chinchwad corporation area.

Settings and Design:

The study was carried out in Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) city area. It was a descriptive cross-sectional survey.

Materials and Methods:

A population-based seroprevalence study for immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) was carried out among 10082 residents in the age group of 6 years and above selected by cluster random sampling. Thirty-five clusters were in slums, 45 clusters in tenements and 120 clusters from housing societies. The fieldwork for the collection of samples was carried out from 16 June to 17 June 2021. For antibody testing, a kit from Abbott (SARS-CoV-2 IgG) was used which employs chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay (CMIA) technology.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Frequency analysis was done for sociodemographic variables, the cumulative incidence of COVID-19, age-stratified infection rate, risk factors and COVID symptomatic versus asymptomatic cases. Chi-square test of association was applied to test the association between seropositivity and sociodemographic and clinical profile of participants.

Results:

The overall seropositivity for IgG antibodies was 81.34%. Those living in the Gaothan area (tenements) had a positivity rate of 84.5%. The age group between 45 and 60 years had a seropositivity of 91%.

Conclusions:

The study indicates that a considerable proportion of the population had encountered the novel coronavirus approaching herd immunity.
Feasibility and acceptability of telepathology system among the rural communities of Bangladesh: A pilot study
Authors: Rahman Md Jiaur , Rahman Md Moshiur , Matsuyama Ryota , Tsunematsu Miwako , Islam Rafiqul , Ahmed Ashir , Banu Bilkis , Hossain Sarder Mahmud , Rahman Sarker Mohammad Habibur , Monjur Forhad , Roshid Md Marufur , Islam Md Rashedul , Kakehashi Masayuki
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Telepathology is a promising tool for remote communities to receive pathology services where professional diagnosis services are inadequate.

Aims:

We aimed to clarify how effective telepathology was when compared with conventional pathology service among rural communities of Bangladesh.

Methods and Materials:

We conducted a cross-sectional study in suburban and rural areas of Bangladesh between June and August 2020. We enrolled 117 participants who received both telepathology services from Thakurgaon Eye Hospital and conventional pathology service experience. The participant’s satisfaction with the accessibility and perceptions were statistically compared. In addition, we summarized descriptive statistics using the frequencies and percentages of participants’ responses.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Wilcoxon’s Signed-rank test using SPSS statistic software version 25.00.

Results:

Among the study participants, service cost, travel cost, travel time, waiting time, and travel distance were significantly higher for conventional pathology than telepathology (P < 0.001). The majority of participants (94%) were satisfied with the telepathology experience; however, one out of 117 participants was dissatisfied with this service when their travel distance was far away (≥50 km). Among the participants, 91.5% thought that telepathology service was effective for their treatment, and 98.3% wanted to continue this service in their community. On an average, participants saved 58% (95% CI, 53.4–61.5) of cost using telepathology rather than conventional pathology service.

Conclusions:

Remote under-resourced communities received professional pathology services with less time-consuming and significantly lower costs using the telepathology approach. Where pathology services are absent/insufficient, telepathology is efficacious for primary diagnosis, screening, and referral through professional pathologists for the satisfactory treatment of unreached communities.
Prevalence and pattern of ocular disorders due to chronic exposure to arc welding among occupational welders in Western Rajasthan
Authors: Praveena  , Manoher Jayshri M. , Kumar Ashok
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Arc welders have a higher prevalence of ocular disorders than the general population. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of ocular disorders due to chronic exposure to arc welding in occupational welders.

Methods:

Ninety welders and ninety nonwelders took part in this cross-sectional study. Sociodemographic information was obtained in the community, and a detailed ophthalmic examination was done in tertiary care hospitals.

Results:

The mean (SD) age of the welders was 33.13 (11.57) years, whereas the mean age (SD) of controls was 33.13 (10.57) years (P = 0.901). The majority (93.33%) of welders had at least one ocular manifestation, which was higher than the nonwelders, i.e., 26.67% (P < 0.01). Among welders, the most common conjunctival manifestation was congestion (36.11%). The prevalence of phototoxic maculopathy was found at 56.67% among welders and 7.78% among nonwelders (P < 0.01). All the welders used to wear only goggles as protective equipment. Prevalence of maculopathy was found to be lower among strictly adherent welders than occasional users. None of the sociodemographic variables was found associated with strict usage of goggles among welders.

Conclusion:

Chronic exposure to arc welding is associated with increased ocular disorders including phototoxic maculopathy. Policies regarding personal protective equipment usage and safety at workplaces should be implemented rigorously, even in small-scale, unorganized sectors.
Clinical profile and in-hospital outcomes of COVID-19 patients: Findings from secondary data analysis
Authors: Semwal Jayanti , Sharma Neha , Mishra Surabhi , Uniyal Akanksha , Khanduri Rakhee , Kotwal Aarti , Das Sanjoy , Jethani Sunder L.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Uttarakhand, a hilly state in north India, reported the first coronavirus disease (COVID) case on 15 March 2020. Since then, the case numbers rose multiple folds. As Uttarakhand has been on a ‘war-footing’ amidst the recent second wave and is gearing up to fight against the third wave, the present study aims to uncover baseline clinical profile and in-hospital outcomes of COVID patients in Dehradun district (Uttarakhand) during the first wave.

Methods:

A record-based descriptive analysis was carried out for 671 COVID patients admitted to a private dedicated COVID hospital in Dehradun district between August 2020 and February 2021. Data was collected from medical records on a standardized abstraction form. Data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.

Results:

The present study showed most admitted COVID patients were males, aged 40 years and above, moderately ill, had co-morbidities with about one-fourth lately succumbed to death. The proportions of deaths, moderate-to-severe and severe category of illness were invariably high for those with co-morbidities irrespective of the gender. Females, age <60 years, and absence of co-morbidities had overall high mean survival estimates from COVID.

Conclusion:

Females, younger age group, and absence of co-morbidities are more likely to survive from COVID than males, older age groups, and those with co-morbidities.
Treatment of depression in the first primary care consultation: A qualitative study
Authors: Moir Fiona , Roskvist Rachel , Arroll Bruce , Louis Deanna , Walsh Esther , Buttrick Lily , Khalil Nada , Mount Vicki , Dowrick Christopher
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The first primary care consultation for patients with depression can have long-term consequences for patients, but little is known about treatment decisions at this visit. The aim of this study was to explore the treatment of patients presenting in primary care with a new episode of depression and the drivers behind GPs’ treatment decisions at the initial consultation.

Materials and Methods:

A random sample of GPs in Auckland was invited to participate. A qualitative study was undertaken using semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were analyzed using a general inductive approach.

Results:

Twenty-one GPs were interviewed. We identified three themes as drivers of treatment decisions at the first visit: characteristics of GPs, characteristics of patients, and characteristics of treatment options. Drivers for prescribing were severe depression and time constraints. A driver for non-pharmacological treatment was a strong doctor–patient relationship. Limited time, skill, and training were associated with low confidence using talking therapies. Access to counseling was reported as poor. There was a very wide range of approaches taken. GPs described preferring antidepressants less and talking therapies more with Māori patients. Behavioral activation was used least despite its ease of use and it being one of the most effective treatments for depression.

Conclusion:

Treatment of depression at the first visit varies widely between practitioners. GPs report multiple barriers to the provision of talking therapies. A move to a more standardized approach may lead to more equitable care. This is the first study to report findings about the initial primary care consultation for depression.
A study on biomarkers of sepsis and potential role of procalcitonin and ferritin marker in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment
Authors: Samuel Marcella Sherin , Latha Ragunathan , Kavitha Kannaiyan , Sivasubramanian Vithiavathi
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

To evaluate the potential value of serum procalcitonin and serum ferritin levels in patients with clinically suspected and proven sepsis and their comparison with established inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP) and total leukocyte count.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 60 clinically suspected cases of sepsis were included in this study and each patient was investigated for serum S. ferritin, procalcitonin, and CRP and blood cultures using the BacT/Alert system.

Results:

Serum procalcitonin at a cut-off value of >2 ng/ml is a valuable biomarker for early diagnosis in sepsis patients due to bacterial infection and has a greater predictive value than serum ferritin, CRP, or any other biomarkers.
Evaluation of the prevalence and clinical and laboratory features of acute viral myositis in children with influenza referred to the emergency department of Ali Asghar Tehran Hospital in 2019 and 2020
Authors: Delavar Motahare A. , Ebrahimi Hamidreza K. , Borhani Nafise , Karimian Pegah , Ehsanipour Fahimeh , Jafarnejad Shabahang , Esmaeilian Somayeh
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Influenza-related viral myositis is observed mostly in children with influenza, and the disease is more common in influenza type B. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence, and clinical and laboratory features of acute viral myositis in children with influenza in 2019 and 2020.

Methods:

This retrospective cross-sectional study was performed in Ali Asghar Hospital, from December 2019 to February 2020. Children aged 2–14 years with symptoms of acute onset of fever, along with the symptoms of influenza with or without muscle pain who referred to the emergency department of Hazrat Ali Asghar Children’s Hospital, were included in the study. The data were collected and analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.

Results:

Out of the 105 participants in this study, 62 (59%) were male and the rest were female. The average age of the patients was 5.34 years (SD = 2.63). Clinical signs of lower limb pain, myalgia, lameness, weakness, and lethargy were significantly more common in patients with myositis (P-value < 0.05). In-vitro examination demonstrated that creatine phosphokinase (CPK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and aAlanine aminotransferease (ALT) levels were significantly higher in patients with myositis.

Conclusion:

Based on the present results, the clinical symptoms in patients are quite clear, and based on the symptoms, it is possible to diagnose and treat myositis without relying on laboratory findings; due to the self-limitation of this complication and lack of the need for complex treatments in case of early diagnosis, physicians can diagnose and treat many cases, depending on the clinical symptoms and the accuracy of the examination.
COVID-19 pandemic has taken away focus, resources from cancer patients needing palliative care
Authors: Nair Devi , Raveendran Krishnanunni , Sukthankar Vithal S.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

The outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic is impacting the global population in drastic ways and redefining the global health scenario. If the resources are diverted to manageCOVID-19, patients with other life-limiting conditions such as cancer can be pushed out of their healthcare settings with reduced access to healthcare. To mitigate the impact of the pandemic on cancer patients, health systems should focus on the strategies how to strengthen palliative care services.
Prevalence of lifestyle diseases in Maharashtra: A comparison between NFHS-5 and NFHS-4 surveys
Authors: Kshirsagar Maya Vikas , Ashturkar Madhura Dhananjay
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Lifestyle diseases are non-communicable diseases (NCDs) of long duration and slow progression and are result of combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. NCDs kill approximately 41 million people (71% of global deaths) worldwide each year, which includes 14 million premature deaths aged between 30 and 70 years.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to compare prevalence of obesity, diabetes and hypertension in Maharashtra as per NFHS-4 (2015–16) and NFHS-5 survey (2019–20).

Methods:

This study was based on the data from the fifth round of National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) and fourth round of National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) for the state of Maharashtra. NFHS-5 survey for Maharashtra was conducted from 19 June 2019 to 30 December 2019.

Results:

Prevalence of Diabetes was observed as 12.4% among women and 13.6% among men, prevalence of hypertension was observed 23.1% among women and 24.4% among men and prevalence of increased Waist Hip ratio was seen 44.5% among women and 40.7% among men.

Conclusion:

It has been noted that the lifestyle diseases are on the rise as compared with the last decade. The policy makers should focus all these diseases as the need of the hour.
Sleep patterns and predictors of poor sleep quality among Saudi commission residents in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia before and during covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Alhayyani Roqayya Mohammed Ahmed , Qassem Mohammad Yahya , Alhayyani Aisha Mohammed Ahmed , Al-Garni Abdulaziz Mohammed , Raffaa Hazim Saeed , Al Qarni Hassan Zaher M. , Alhumayed Razan S. , Assiri Yara Mofarih Ahmed , Alshahrany Afnan Muslah , Alfayi Banan Aedh , Asiri Fatimah Yahya , Mohammad Ahad Essa
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Sleep is an essential part of human physiology. Being a basic need for human well-being, adequate sleep is associated with good health and life quality for all individuals. Disorders of sleep may result in significant derangement in human functionality. Sleepiness among physicians affects not only their personal lives but also negatively impacts the lives of their patients.

Method:

This is an analytic cross-sectional study design conducted among 268 male and female Saudi commission residents working in public healthcare facilities in the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia. The study aimed to assess sleep patterns and determine predictors of poor sleep quality among Saudi commission residents of the Aseer region, Saudi Arabia.

Result:

The study reported that before COVID 19 pandemic, 85.1% of Saudi commission residents had poor sleep quality; however, during the pandemic, the percentage increased to 92.5% who showed poor sleep quality. Also, we found there was a significant association between different self-reported morbidities among Saudi commission residents and sleep disturbance (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The study revealed that the percentage of the Saudi commission residents had poor sleep quality during pandemic higher than before with significant difference, which indicates the relation between COVID 19 pandemic and sleeps quality among Saudi commission residents.
A study of clinical pattern and seasonal variation of dermatoses in children: Contemplating findings for family physicians
Authors: Kandpal Renu , Kumar Mukesh , Patil Chetan , Hiremath Ravishekar N. , Viswanath Kasi , Sreenivas Audukoori
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Pediatric skin disorders are different from the adult type in their presentations, types, treatment and prognosis. Their presentation varies from place to place.

Aim:

To study the different clinical pattern and seasonal variation of dermatoses in children attending a multispecialty hospital in Uttar Pradesh.

Materials and Methods:

This study was conducted among 640 children who attended the OPD of multispecialty hospital over a period of one year. All children up to 10 years of age with cutaneous presentations were included in the study.

Results:

Study showed that there was a male preponderance among the study participants. According to the age group, school-aged children (6-10 years) constituted the highest percentage (53%) followed by toddlers or pre-school children (41%). The most common skin conditions were infections (47%) followed by eczematous group (31%) of disorders. Among the infections, the most common infections were fungal - 35.64% (107) followed by parasitic infection (31%), viral infections (20%) and then bacterial infections (12.5%). Out of total eczematous dermatoses, Atopic dermatosis was maximum in number (61; 30%). This was followed by pityriasis Alba (47; 23.15%), and acute eczemas (32; 15.76%). Third most common dermatosis was Appendageal disorder (33; 5.15%). It included 15 cases of miliaria i.e. approximately 45.45%. Seventeen (2.65%) children reported for treatment of different kind of nevi. Pigmentary disorders were seen in 16 cases (2.5%). Three nutritional disorders were also seen. Season wise, most of the cases were seen in monsoons (June to October).

Conclusions:

Dermatoses is very common in children in the western region of Uttar Pradesh. The largest group was formed by infections followed by eczemas. Few cases increased in number depending upon the weather like fungal and bacterial infections, acne, miliaria in summers and xerosis, scabies in winters. This variation strongly suggests that weather has a very important role. Thus various measures including health education programs to be initiated to control and prevent the sudden spread of the diseases. Thus, Primary care providers and family physicians being the first responders should always keep in mind the seasonal variations while dealing with dermatosis in children.
Prevalence of Salmonella typhi in among febrile patients in a tertiary care hospital of South West Rajasthan
Authors: Bhumbla Upasana , Chaturvedi Parul , Jain Sarita
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Salmonella enterica, serotype typhi, remains the predominant Salmonella species causing enteric fever in India. The mode of Salmonella typhi transmission is considered to be predominantly vehicle-borne through contaminated water or food. In India, the incidence of Salmonella typhi occurs between the months of April and June (dry season) followed by July and September (monsoon season). Typhoid fever may be difficult to distinguish clinically from other febrile illnesses and if left untreated, intestinal, neuropsychiatric, and other complications develop in some patients.

Objective:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of S. typhi in bloodstream infections and its antimicrobial susceptibility pattern among patients with febrile illness.

Methodology:

Febrile patients admitted in the hospital who were prescribed blood culture tests and whose samples were sent to microbiology laboratory were included in the study. All blood samples (average 5 mL for adults and 2–3 mL for pediatric age group) were immediately inoculated into Bac-T ALERT aerobic blood culture bottles containing sodium polyethanol sulfonate as an anticoagulant (0.025%). If growth was isolated, isolated colony characteristics of growth and Gram stain were assessed. On Gram staining, typical nonlactose fermenting Gram negative bacilli were further subjected to species identification and detection of antimicrobial susceptibility pattern on the VITEK2.

Results:

In this study period, a total of 511 blood culture (paired) samples were processed, out of which 47 isolates of Salmonella were obtained. Among these isolates, 33 (70.23%) were from males, and 14 (29.77%) were from females. Amongst these, 35 (74.4%) patients were from rural, 8 (17%) were from subrural, and 4 (8.5%) were from urban areas. Out of the total 47 isolates of Salmonella, 42 (89.36%) were Salmonella typhi, 2 (4.25%) were Salmonella paratyphi A and B each, and 1 (2.12%) was Salmonella enterica. Antimicrobial susceptibility pattern of Salmonella isolates revealed that all the isolates of Salmonella species were highly susceptible (95%–100%) to third generation cephalosporins (ceftazidime, ceftriaxone, cefepime, cefoperazone-sulbactam) and other higher antibiotics such as betalactamase inhibitors – piperacillin tazobactam (95%–100%) and Ticarcillin–clavulanic acid (100%). They were also highly susceptible (100%) to carbapenams (imipenem, merpenem, doripenem, and ertapenem) but showed a fairly decreased susceptibility was towards nalidixic acid with 15% for Salmonella typhi and 50% for other Salmonella isolates.

Conclusion:

Surging drug-resistant Salmonella enterica cases, the level of resistance was not as high as predicted in our study population. Multidrug-resistant (MDR) trends may vary; therefore, drug susceptibility testing side-by-side to empirical therapy is mandatory, especially in developing countries where there is a practice of self-medication.
Burden of disease and survival rate amongst hospitalized newborns in Himalayan region in North India
Authors: Singh Rajender , Sood Mangla , Bhardwaj Parveen , Sood Ishaan
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Objective:

To describe the patient population, priority diseases, and outcomes in neonates admitted to neonatal unit in the Himalayan region of North India.

Study Design:

The retrospective study was conducted at a University teaching hospital in Himachal Pradesh, and captured anonymized data on all admissions in newborn unit over 6-year period.

Results:

Total 12449 newborns were admitted, 4669 were outborn, M:F of 1.35:1 and 81% of them were discharged successfully. Overall admissions surged by 76 percent in six years, preterm admissions increased by 41%. During the same period delivery load grew by 24.7%. Majority 64.9% were full-term; 50.4% (6279/12449) of neonates were low birthweight (LBW; <2.5 kg) and 3.8% were Extreme LBW (ELBW; <1.0 kg). Among intramural, out of 20.2% preterm, 1.8% were <28 week; compared to 1.5% <28 week and 14.1% preterm in extramural. The intrauterine growth restriction rate was 17.6% for intramural and 19.3% for extramural, respectively. The most common morbidities were prematurity (40.2% & 27%), jaundice (32.6% & 27.5%), RDS and respiratory problems (19.2% & 9.8%), sepsis (11.3% & 23.5%), and perinatal asphyxia (6.2% and 7.5%) among inborn and outborn respectively. Total 798 (6.4%) newborns died, 10.5% of all deaths happened within 24 hours; mortality was very high amongst ELBW (110/205, 53.7%) and very preterm infants <28 weeks (81/135,60%). Only 993 inborn and 18 outborn received antenatal corticosteroids, with only 383 inborn and 4 outborn receiving four doses of Dexamethasone. Low gestational age, LBW, less of antenatal corticosteroids, outborns, male sex, and congenital deformity were all found to have a significant association with death (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Preterm accounts for a considerable majority of our total admissions. Greater efforts and investment in better prenatal care, infrastructure, therapeutic facilities, manpower, and periodic training and review of staff nurses are all urgently needed to address the extremely high burden of illnesses and mortality among hospitalized newborns; otherwise, lowering the NMR will remain an unattainable goal.
Mycoplasma associated stroke in a 4 year old child- A multifactorial etiology
Authors: Vinodhini P , Peterson Rachel R. , Hanmantgad Shreyas , Lakshmi KS
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Mycoplasma pneumonia is a common cause of community-acquired pneumonia in India. Stroke due to infection-induced thrombosis is a rare complication of this infection and etiology can be multifactorial. We report a four-year-old girl with a mycoplasma infection associated stroke with thrombosis of the internal carotid artery and presence of lupus anticoagulant. She also had other risk factors for thrombosis like iron deficiency anemia and dehydration due to diarrhea which probably exacerbated an infection-induced procoagulant state. Lupus anticoagulants may be detected in many asymptomatic children with infections. The presence of other risk factors may precipitate a serious thrombotic event leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Recognising atypical pneumonia in the community and prompt treatment may reduce the serious extrapulmonary complications like stroke in children.
Evaluation of antibacterial effect of concentrated growth factor on Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis
Authors: Chitsazha Ramtin , Faramarzi Masoumeh , Sadighi Mehrnoosh , Pourabbas Reza , Pourhajibagher Maryam , Firouzi Negin , Ghasemirad Mohammad
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis are the two main bacteria that cause periodontitis which is an inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues. Numerous antibacterial agents have been introduced to fight against these periodontal pathogens, but the antibacterial efficacy of concentrated growth factor has not been studied yet. Therefore, this study is aimed to investigate the antibacterial impact of concentrated growth factor on the growth of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Methods:

In this study, concentrated growth factor was obtained from blood samples of healthy people with no systemic disease and no antibiotics used for at least 3 months before the experiments. The concentrated growth factor from each blood sample was divided into two parts, i.e., three samples in P. gingivalis group and three samples in A. actinomycetemcomitans group, and a positive control group to verify the accuracy of the procedure and a negative group to rule out any contamination. The minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration of CGF against A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis were determined by the broth microdilution method. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 22 software, and P value significance was set to 0.05. Results: The antibacterial property of CGF on the studied bacteria in concentrations of MIC and ¼ MIC is the same for both bacteria, but in ½ MIC, its impact on A. actinomycetemcomitans is significantly higher than P. gingivalis. Examining the MBC showed that no MBC dose was obtained. Results of the disk diffusion test indicated the lack of the zones of bacterial growth inhibition.

Conclusions:

Considering the limitations of our study, it can be concluded that CGF has antibacterial effectiveness against A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis with no significant difference between two bacteria.
Combination of behavioral therapy and varenicline for smoking cessation: Time to beat nicotine
Authors: Agarwal Avnica , Goyal Ankita , Singh Saurabh , Gupta Gaurav
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

India is the second largest tobacco consumer and the third largest tobacco producer in the world. The current trends of tobacco use in India includes 1 million deaths per year, and the problem is worsening, and also, tobacco use will cause 13% of deaths in India by 2022. To control this number, it is an alarming situation to work on the main etiology. Smoking cessation programs are considered very useful in helping tobacco users to quit, as it is a very difficult addiction to break and effective approaches are required. So, authors reported a case of 61-year-old male patient who was a chronic smoker and used to smoke 20–25 cigarettes per day. He started noticing the ill effects of tobacco in the body, so he finally decided to seek help from doctor. His habit reduced to half in few days, and finally he completely quitted smoking with the help of behavioral therapy and pharmacotherapy.
Knowledge of human papilloma virus (HPV), HPV-vaccine and pap smear among adult Saudi women
Authors: Al Ghamdi Nada H.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Saudi Arabia has no screening program for cervical cancer (CC). Few studies have explored the level of knowledge among Saudi women regarding CC screening and human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination against CC. We investigate the awareness and knowledge of HPV and its Pap smear screening tool among Saudi women of reproductive age.

Methods:

This was a national online cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of adult Saudi women. A snowball sampling technique was adopted used. The first section includes questions regarding the socio-demographic data of the participants. The second section inquired about the knowledge of the women regarding CC, PAP smear test, and HPV (11 questions). The third section inquired about practice of the women regarding the PAP smear test (3 questions).

Results:

The study included 755 Saudi adult women; 64.5% heard of CC (69% from social media and the internet and 29.8% from healthcare workers. Only 21.2% showed adequate knowledge regarding CC, its vaccine, and Pap smear testing. Education and employment were associated with better knowledge. Most of the participants (81.1%) expressed a positive perception toward the importance of Pap smear, particularly higher educated women and women who got their information about CC from lectures or healthcare workers. Almost one-fifth of the participants (21.1%) reported performing of Pap smear and only 1.9% reported actual HPV vaccine uptake.

Conclusion:

Overall, women’s level of knowledge regarding CC, its prevention, and screening was adequate, and their attitude was positive. PAP smear and uptake of HPV vaccine was suboptimum.
Prevalence and predictors of thyroid dysfunction amongst patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Pakistan
Authors: Bukhari Syeda Iffat , Ali Gohar , Memom Muhammad Yahya , Sandeelo Nabiya , Alvi Haris , Talib Abu , Ahmed Imtiaz , Lal Hari , Asghar Muhammad Sohaib , Naseer Ushna
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Diabetes and thyroid disorders are the two most common disorders amongst endocrine diseases. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (DM) may disturb thyroid metabolism by disturbing the levels of thyroid hormones in the plasma. This study was undertaken to determine the prevalence and thyroid dysfunction in type 2 diabetic population presenting in a public sector tertiary care teaching hospital.

Materials and Methods:

This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Civil Hospital Karachi (CHK) in the department of medicine from October 01, 2018, to March 31, 2019. The study population consisted of 317 patients diagnosed with DM type 2 based on American Diabetes Association (ADA) criteria. Patients with fasting blood sugar ≥ 126 mg/dL, or HbA1c >6.5 (%), and 2 h postprandial blood glucose levels >200 mg/dL were included. After a minimum of 8 h of fasting, plasma samples of patients were collected and sent for fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, FT3, FT4, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Descriptive statistics were calculated. Post-stratification Chi-squared test was applied, and a P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:

Among all enrolled DM type 2 patients, 207 (65.3%) were male with a mean age of 46.54 ± 8.72 years. Mean fasting blood sugar (FBS), random blood sugar (RBS), and HbA1c were 212.76 ± 26.91 (mg/dL), 328.89 ± 52.89 (mg/dL), and 9.43 ± 2.47 (%), respectively. The mean duration of DM was 7.81 ± 3.15 years. Mean FT3, FT4, and TSH were 113.13 ± 44.40 (ng/dL), 7.63 ± 3.11 (mg/dL) and 2.64 ± 2.57 (mIU/mL), respectively. In the present study, 55 (17.4%) patients had subclinical hypothyroidism, 27 (8.5%) had hypothyroidism, 19 (6.0%) had hyperthyroidism, and 16 (5.0%) had subclinical hyperthyroidism. Significant association of thyroid dysfunction was established with age group, female gender, and family history of thyroid dysfunction (P =< 0.001).

Conclusion:

The prevalence of thyroid dysfunction is higher among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), in which hypothyroidism was the most common dysfunction with more prevalence among female patients.
Awareness of diabetic retinopathy among patients with type-2 diabetes mellitus in Abha, Saudi Arabia: A survey-based research study
Authors: Alsaleh Majed , Alasmari Aishah H. , Al-Amer Abdullah S. Y.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is an avoidable retinal disorder affecting the retina and is deemed the most common microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus (DM).

Aims:

This study aimed to estimate the awareness and attitude of type 2 diabetic patients toward DR.

Methods and Materials:

A study questionnaire was distributed among Saudi patients with type 2 DM who visited primary health care at Abha, Saudi Arabia, after obtaining an ethical approval. It was a modified questionnaire and included basic demographic characteristics of the patients, general knowledge and awareness of DM and DR, and their practices toward eye examination.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data analysis was performed using SPSS software. Chi-square and z-proportionality tests were applied where appropriate.

Results:

A total of 381 patients with DM responded to our survey; 36% of them had DM for five years or less. Notably, 93.5% of participants knew that diabetes can cause eye disease but only 63.3% agreed that regular eye examination for diabetic patients is necessary, with a significant difference of DM duration (p = 0.01). A total of 217 (57%) patients thought that there is no need to visit an ophthalmologist if diabetes is under control. However, 74.5% believed that patients with type 2 DM should go for an eye examination once diagnosed, with a significant difference between disease duration subgroups (p = 0.006).

Conclusion:

The current study demonstrated high levels of awareness regarding the effect of DM on the eye and importance of early eye assessment. However, we need to improve the patients’ awareness to the value of regular eye checking and standard practices.
Prevalence of short stature in transfusion dependent beta thalassemia patients in a tertiary care centre in North East India
Authors: Sharma Sreejana , Bezboruah Gayatri
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

beta thalassemia is one of the most common hereditary hemoglobinopathy requiring regular blood transfusion to help reduce the complications of anemia and allow normal growth in children.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional study done on 50 numbers of transfusion dependent beta thalassemia patients between 18 months and 18 years of age in North east India. Growth parameters like weight, height, BMI were recorded.

Results:

Overall prevalence of stunting was 68%, a significant association was found between stunting and religious connotation.
SARS-CoV-2 triggered seizure complicated by fatal subdural hematoma under edoxaban and clopidogrel
Authors: Finsterer Josef , Korn Maria
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

SARS-CoV-2 associated coagulopathy may manifest as hypocoagulability with a propensity for bleeding. Here we report a COVID-19 patient with fatal subdural hematoma (SDH) shortly after thrombendarteriectomy (TEA), and anticoagulation together with anti-thrombotic treatment. A 83-year-old male developed sudden-onset fever triggering a first ever tonic-clonic seizure. His previous history was positive for diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, aorto-coronary bypass grafting, percutaneous, transluminal coronary angioplasty with stent implantation, peripheral occlusive artery disease with percutaneous, transluminal angioplasty of the left popliteal artery, hypoacusis, and atrial fibrillation. He had undergone TEA 10 days prior to admission because of a non-symptomatic, right-sided 70% common carotid artery stenosis. He was on clopidogrel and edoxaban on admission. He presented with coma, non-reacting, unrounded pupils, stretch synergisms, reduced tendon reflexes, and positive pyramidal signs. Cerebral CT revealed an extensive SDH over the left hemisphere with edema and mass effect and a midline shift to the right. After acute decompression surgery had been declined, the patient expired a few hours after admission. Fatal SDH may occur under clopidogrel and edoxaban during a mild COVID-19 disease after a seizure triggered by fever. Whether hypocoagulation due to COVID-19 increased the bleeding risk and thus contributed to the fatal bleeding remains speculative, but is conceivable.
Low altitude return ameliorates semen parameters after high altitude exposure
Authors: Mohammed Heitham M.
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

A widely studied model of hypoxia is represented by high altitude (HA). Hence, HA hypoxia (HAH) is a challenge for people residing in or visiting high altitudes (Young and Reeves, 2002). Adaptation to HAH affects the homeostasis of several organs and the endocrine and metabolic functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of HAH on the rat’s semen and oxidative stress parameters.

Methods:

This experimental study was carried out at Abha city, Saudi Arabia, high altitude, 2,800 m above sea level; Jazan city, 43 m above sea level, low altitude. A total of 72 rats were used in this study—8 rats as control; groups 1, 2, and 3 each of 8 rats and group 4 of 40 rats were kept at high altitude for 8, 16, 24, and 32 days, respectively. From group 4, 32 rats were taken to low altitude to testify the reversibility of the semen parameters.

Results:

There were significant gradual decreases in the number and motility of the epididymal sperms in groups of rats exposed to HA during the first 3 weeks of HA exposure (HG1-HG3) with a maximum decreases to be seen in HG3 (− 57.3 and − 39.1%, respectively). However, the sperm count started to recover gradually on week 4 of HA exposure (HG4) and during all the periods of the reversal protocol achieved by returning the rats to the LA area (RG1-RG4). The maximum improvement in the sperm count and motility was seen in RG3 and RG4 which were not significantly different when compared with each other. The ANOVA test revealed that, in spite of the improvement in the sperm count which reach (109.3 ± 6.057 and 113.9 ± 8.967) in RG3 and RG4, their levels remained significantly low as those obtained in the control LA rats (129.2 ± 11.67).

Conclusion:

Exposure of rats to hypoxia resulted in a decrease in the sperm count and motility and an increase in the sperm morphological abnormalities. To conclude, the current study showed that the adverse effect of hypobaric hypoxia on semen parameters is transient and reversible.
Analysis of Government website for web-registration to assess pattern of the Covid pandemic
Authors: Gupta Harish , Verma Sudhir K. , Gautam Medhavi , Kumar Satish , Patwa Ajay K. , Nigam Nitu
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Covid-19 is an unprecedented challenge in our times leaving a trail of destruction and mayhem affecting almost all of us during the last 2 years. Various data sources are available around the globe to measure its impact using various yardsticks.

Material and Methods:

By carefully looking at data available at the website maintained by Government of India, we can draw some useful conclusions.

Results:

There is a dip in the number of online registrations at our hospital coinciding with second wave and resultant lockdown.

Conclusion:

Tracing digital footprints of an event as huge as the Covid pandemic may help us for future planning when we learn its lessons well.
Study of lipid profile in young patients (age 40 years or below) with acute coronary syndrome
Authors: Fotedar Sanjay , Garg Anubha , Arora Aman , Chawla Sumit
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) refers to a group of clinical symptoms compatible with acute myocardial ischemia and includes unstable angina, non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction and ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction.

Aims and Objectives:

To study the incidence of lipid profile abnormalities in young patients (age 40 years or below) with ACS with clinical and cardiovascular risk profile.

Material and Methods:

The study was conducted on 223 young patients of acute coronary syndrome with age 40 years or below. 89 young patients with acute coronary syndrome having lipid abnormalities were further followed up after 1 month.

Results:

Majority of patients (55.15%) in the study population belonged to 35–40 years age group. Mean age of study population was 35.65 + 4.62 years with 90.13% males and 9.86% females. Main presenting symptom was precordial chest pain in 93.72% patients. Smoking was the commonest risk factor in young adults (81.7%). Other risk factors like diabetes, hypertension, family history were less common in young adults. Drug addiction was also higher in younger population (16%). Majority of young adults with acute coronary syndrome had more than 1 (47.53%) risk factor. Majority of patients were in Killip class I (86.9%) and only few patients (13.1%) had Killip class II or above. ST elevation myocardial infarction was far more common than NTEMI/USA and was found in 164 (73.5%) patients. Most common type of infarction was anterior wall myocardial infarction (62.80%). Majority of young patients had negative TMT, so it suggests that ACS in younger population has lesser complications during presentation, hospital stay and on follow-up.

Conclusion:

ACS in young continues to increase in Indian subcontinent. Younger patient with an ACS have different clinical characteristics and a different prognosis than older patients. The extent of CAD and degree of myocardial necrosis has influence on presentation and subsequent MACE in ACS and in this study, it appears dyslipidemia do not play any significant role in influencing extent of CAD and has little effect on outcome whether during acute stage or on immediate follow-up after ACS.
Association of long and short interpregnancy intervals with maternal outcomes
Authors: Agrawal Smriti , Chaudhary Mamta , Das Vinita , Agarwal Anjoo , Pandey Amita , Kumar Namrata , Mishra Shambhavi
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Interpregnancy interval (IPI) is spacing between live birth and beginning a new pregnancy. Both long and short IPIs have been associated with adverse maternal outcomes. There is paucity in the Indian literature regarding the impact of IPI on maternal outcomes.

Materials and Methodology:

The cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George’s Medical University, Lucknow, from July 2019 to June 2020. Women with previous abortions, previous stillbirth, nulliparity, or multiple pregnancies were excluded. A pre-structured pro forma was used for demographic details. IPI was categorized as <6 months, 6 to <24 months, 24 to <60 months, and 60 months. Maternal outcomes were studied, and odds ratios were calculated.

Results:

There were 6984 deliveries in the period. A total of 4812 women were enrolled after following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of 4812 women, 142 (2.9%) had IPI <6 months, 3336/4812 women (69.3%) had IPI 6 to <24 months, 1144/4812 women (23.7%) had IPI 24 to <60 months, and 3.9% women (190/4812) had IPI ≥60 months. High risk of fetal malposition (OR 3.84), fetal growth restriction (OR 2.06), and hypertension (OR 1.86) were seen in women with short IPI <6 months. Women with longer IPI (≥ 60 months) had higher chances of preterm labor (OR 3.82), oligoamnios (OR 2.54), gestational diabetes (OR 2.19), and anemia (OR 1.

5) Conclusion:

Three-fourths of women had IPI less than 24 months recommended as minimum interval by WHO. Efforts are needed to increase awareness and availability of contraceptive choices for postpartum women to ensure adequate spacing.
Newer onset of diabetes mellitus and thyroid dysfunction in COVID-19: Study from rural India
Authors: Bawaskar Himmatrao Saluba , Bawaskar Pramodini Himmatrao
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cytokine and bardykine storm plays important role in then pathogenesis of COVID-19 diseses, as result there are raised inflammatory markers and blood sugar.

Patients and Method:

Patient with RTPCR positive with signs and symptoms of COVID-19 were investigated for fasting and postprandial blood sugar and glycoted hemoglobin percentage, inflammatory markers TSH and Covid antibodies.

Result:

All the 17 cases detected newly onset of diabetes with normal HBA1c and raised thyroid stimulating hormones in five cases. Significant raised levels of inflammatory markers and D-diamer. All cases showed bilateral pneumonias in the lungs.

Conclusion:

Newer onset of diabetes mellitus due to COVID-19 disease should be mangled with insulin therapy.
Clinico-epidemiological profile and outcomes of adults with COVID-19: A hospital-based retrospective study in Kerala, India
Authors: Anand Marthanda Pillai , Mini G. K. , Bobby Moses W. , Anilkumar Asokan , Kamala S. , Kutty LR Mohammed , Harikrishnan S. , Lordson Jinbert A. , Koya Shaffi Fazaludeen , Chandran Sachin , Chitra Grace A. , Lal S. S. , Nayar K. R. , Pillai A. Marthanda ,   GIPH COVID-19 Research Team
Published: June 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The clinical and epidemiological presentations of patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in India is still not well explored. We studied the epidemiological and clinical profile and outcomes of COVID-19 patients admitted to a tertiary care private hospital in Kerala, India.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we analyzed data of 476 adult (≥18 years) COVID-19 patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital in Kerala from September 1, 2020 to March 31, 2021. The patients were categorized into mild, moderate, and severe cases and followed till discharge or death. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0 with a significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:

The median age was 57 years (56% men). Mild, moderate, and severe cases accounted for 17%, 65%, and 18%, respectively. Around 75% had at least one comorbidity, and 51% had multiple comorbidities. The most common comorbidities were diabetes (45%), hypertension (44%), dyslipidemia (15%), and cardiac problems (12%). The elevated D-dimer values among patients in different categories were significantly different, with 74% in severe, 46% in moderate, and 19% in mild category patients. Serum ferritin, C-reactive protein, lactic acid dehydrogenase, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio values were significantly higher for severely ill patients. Thirty deaths (67% men) occurred during the study period, with a case fatality rate of 6.3%. Mortality mainly happened in the older age group (80%) and those with multimorbidity (90%).

Conclusion:

Age and multimorbidity are the major contributing factors for death in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. Generalization of the findings necessitates well-designed large-scale studies.