bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Allergens in Hand, Foot, and Hand–Foot Eczema
Authors: Sahana S , Chethana SG , Kanthraj GR , Betkerur Jayadev
Published: May 2024

Background:

Hand eczema (HE), foot eczema (FE), and hand–foot eczema (HFE) manifest on exposure to various agents in day-to-day life or in occupations or both.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to identify pattern of allergens causing HE, FE, and HFE and to identify multiple and concurrent contact allergies.

Materials and Methods:

A study was conducted from October 2013 to August 2015 which included 190 patients. Patch test was performed for 78.94% of patients (n = 150). The statistical tests used were descriptive, Cramer's V, and Chi-square tests.

Results:

The most commonly affected group was HFE (55.8%) followed by HE (22.1%) and FE (22.1%). Allergens showed positivity either singly 56.3% (n = 67) or in combination 43.69% (n = 52). Nickel (41.79%) was the most common allergen in all the three groups followed by potassium dichromate. Late reactions (after day 7) were observed in 17.64% of patients (n = 21). Nickel was observed in 42.85% (n = 9) and paraphenylenediamine was observed in 28.57% of patients (n = 6) with P values of <0.001 and 0.050, respectively. Multiple contact allergies were seen in 44% of patients (n = 52). Concurrent reactions (55.8% [n = 29]), polysensitization (34.6% [n = 18]), and mixed reactions (9.6% [n = 5]) (P value of <0.001) were observed.

Conclusion:

Significant multiple contact allergies including concurrent reactions with nickel sulfate, potassium dichromate, cobalt chloride, and polysensitization were observed. No significant differences in allergen pattern were observed in HE, FE, and HFE.

Recommendation:

Day 7 reading is recommended in HFE.
Leukotriene Antagonists in Dermatology
Authors: Bubna Aditya Kumar
Published: May 2024

Leukotriene antagonists constitute an important group of drugs in the therapeutic armamentarium of all dermatologists. It has been quite valuable in the management of various types of urticaria and atopic dermatitis. Recently, the role of zileuton in the management of acne has been elaborated, and in the near future it could be used as a first-line agent for the same, thereby preventing adverse effects and antibiotic resistance encountered following antibiotic use. This review will throw light on the dermatologic aspects of leukotriene antagonists.
Eponyms in Trichoscopy
Authors: Jain Salecha Akshay , Boina Kinnera , Purushothaman Suruthi , Indra Kanmani
Published: May 2024

Trichoscopy is a non-invasive scalp and hair dermoscopy. In our daily dermatology practice, many eponyms are used. The present article highlights various eponyms in trichoscopy described in dermatology.
On the Scheme for Obtaining a Better Knowledge of Endemic Skin Diseases of India by Tilbury Fox (1836–1879)
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Amiya K.
Published: May 2024

With the presence of western nations in India, a change started appearing in the medical scenario. The civilians and soldiers had to suffer from many endemic diseases like fever, cholera, plague, small pox etc. prevalent in India and it caused great loss to the new comers. To protect the life and properties and to gain a firm ground in the Indian soil, Europeans established various medical institutions that provided western medical care. In the course of time British got hold of the power in most part of this country. As the administrators were more engaged with the fatal endemic diseases, cutaneous disorders with lower mortality got less importance. Tilbury Fox, a distinguished British physician accompanied the Earl of Hopetoun in a tour to the East and reached India in 1864. Fox noticed the chaotic situation in the systematic study of dermatological disorders. He proposed a scheme to study the proper situation in this country which laid the beginning of systematic study of dermatology in India. Though his study was the steppingstone of Indian dermatology, but Fox got little attention in the history of dermatology in India. This article discusses about a brief overview of the scheme and the contribution of Tilbury fox.
Recent Update on Immunopathogenesis of Psoriasis
Authors: Chhabra Seema , Dogra Sunil , Sharma Keshav , Raychaudhuri Smriti K. , Raychaudhuri Siba P.
Published: May 2024

Psoriasis is a chronic disabling complex inflammatory disorder prevalent worldwide with environmental and genetic components that involve predominantly skin in addition to nails and joints associated with various systemic comorbidities having periods of exacerbations and remissions. Psoriasis is characterized by hyper-proliferation as well as abnormal differentiation of epidermal keratinocytes and lymphocyte infiltration (mainly T cells) with resultant inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. Immunological and genetic studies over the last decade have identified genetic susceptibility risk alleles, molecular, cellular and immunological mechanisms involved in immunopathogenesis of psoriasis. The current disease model emphasizes the role of aberrant Th1 and Th17 responses regulated by a complex network of different cytokines, including TNF-α, IL-17 and IL-23; signal transduction pathways downstream to the cytokine receptors; and various activated transcription factors, including NF-κB, interferon regulatory factors and signal transducer and activator of transcriptions. Cytokines targeting biologics (IL-17, IL-23 and TNFα) therapies have revolutionized the management of severe skin disease having beneficial effects on joints and systemic inflammation of psoriasis as well. Further better understanding of immunopathogenesis of psoriasis will pave way for precision medicine based on specific immunopathogenic targets in a given phenotype of disease. Complex interplay of psoriasis with associated comorbidities is also a future area of research for overall better patient management and to improve their quality of life.
Traction Alopecia
Authors: Sharquie Khalifa E. , Schwartz Robert A. , Aljanabi Wesal K. , Janniger Camila K.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Traction alopecia is common and preventable but frequently overlooked disorder.

Objective:

To evaluate patients with traction alopecia.

Patients and Methods:

This study was conducted at the Dermatology Center, Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, during the period from November 2005 to October 2019. Demographic features like age, gender, disease duration and special hair styling practices and accessories were recorded. Clinical patterns were studied.

Results:

Thirty female patients were included in this study. Their ages ranged from 6 to 47 years with mean age ± SD was 15.63 ± 9.806. Twenty-one (70%) were below the age of 16 years. No patient had tightly curled hair. All cases were asymptomatic apart from hair loss. The fringe sign was observed in 27 (90%) of cases. The response to therapy was poor.

Conclusion:

Traction alopecia is an important type of pressure-induced hair loss evident in children and adults with or without curly hair due mainly due to cultural hair styling practices with its frequency apparently increasing in recent years. The fringe sign is common and of diagnostic importance. It is a preventable form of hair loss which can be reversed if diagnosed early; otherwise, permanent scarring alopecia results. It represents a pressure phenomenon evident worldwide in both non-Sub-Saharan lineage and Sub-Saharan lineage individuals.
Correlation of Vitamin D3 Levels with Disease Severity in Psoriasis Patients – A Case-Control Study
Authors: Mohta Alpana , Nyati Asha
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Vitamin D is involved in the activation of innate and adaptive immunity. In the epidermis, vitamin D is involved in the differentiation and maturation of keratinocytes. A fall in the vitamin D levels can activate auto-immunity.

Aims and Objectives:

This study was aimed at correlating the serum vitamin D level of psoriasis patients with disease severity.

Materials and Methods:

This case-control study included 50 newly diagnosed cases of psoriasis (group A) and 50 controls (group B). Serum vitamin D levels were assessed in both groups. The levels were correlated with the duration of disease, psoriasis area and severity index (PASI) score, and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) level.

Results:

Psoriasis patients had significantly lower vitamin D levels than controls. There was a significant negative correlation between serum vitamin D level and disease duration, PASI score, and ESR level (p-value <0.001). Rising age and female gender were also associated with significantly lower vitamin D.

Conclusion:

We found a high prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in psoriatic patients. The level is strongly associated with every aspect of disease severity. Its level can predict the course of disease and prognosis.
Health Burden of Hansen's Disease in Central India
Authors: Shah Vrutika H , Singh Rajesh P , Agrawal Shashank K , Supekar Bhagyashree B , Panindra Lavanya
Published: May 2024

Background:

Despite the implementation of multidrug therapy by WHO to treat Hansen's disease (HD), new case detection rates are still high indicating active transmission.

Aims and Objectives:

To study the clinical profile of HD in central India along with its epidemiological characteristics.

Materials and Methods:

Medical records of clinically diagnosed Hansen's patients were recruited retrospectively during January 2015 to December 2018. Case records were evaluated with respect to demographic, clinical, histopathological, and bacteriological investigations, development of reaction, and deformities. Patients were classified based on Ridley Jopling classification and treated accordingly. Statistical analysis was done using proportion, mean, and percentage.

Results:

A total of 400 new patients were enrolled and males outnumbered females. Maximum cases, 115 (28.75%), were in the age group of 31–40 years. Sixteen (4%) cases belonged to the pediatric age (less than 18 years) group. Most common clinical spectrum was borderline lepromatous (n = 156, 39%) followed by lepromatous HD (n = 120, 30%). Eleven patients had pure neuritic HD and nine had histoid HD. Grade 2 deformity was found in 52 and grade 1 deformity was found in 16 patients. Most common lepra reaction was type 2 lepra reaction (n = 112, 28%). Thirteen (3.25%) patients were of relapse of HD among which maximum eight were BL HD followed by LL HD three (0.75%) and TT HD two (0.5%).

Conclusion:

Early diagnosis is very important for timely and proper implementation of treatment which will prevent sequelae and physical disabilities that can have an impact on the individual's social and working life, which are responsible for stigma and prejudice regarding the disease. Detection of this huge number of cases signifies a high burden of HD in this area even in the post elimination era.
Open-label Non-blinded Cohort study on Anti-Histaminic Resistant Chronic Idiopathic Urticaria in Western India
Authors: Natarajan Subramanian , Subramanian Poonam
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) is a chronic relapsing disease with hives for a period of six weeks or more. It has a significant impact on the physical and mental well-being of patients.

Aims and Objectives:

Open-label non-blinded study of over 600 patients diagnosed with CIU was done. The aim of the study was to observe the following: 1. Characteristics of patients of anti-histaminic resistant CIU, 2. Efficacy of cyclosporin and any adverse events in the study population and 3. Prognosis and relapse rates of these patients at the end of one year.

Methods:

Detailed history taking and guided clinical evaluation were done to include chronic resistant urticarias in the study and their clinical characteristics and prognosis were studied.

Results:

A total of 610 patients were diagnosed with CIU over a period of four years. Of these, 47 patients (7.7%) were diagnosed with anti-histaminic resistant urticaria. Of these, 30 patients (4.9%) who took treatment with cyclosporin at the above dosages were included in group 1. Rest 17 patients were in group 2 that were continued on anti-histaminics. Patients in cyclosporin group 1 showed a significant reduction in symptom scores as compared with group 2 at the end of six months. A lower need for corticosteroid therapy was noted in the cyclosporin group.

Conclusion:

Cyclosporin in low doses is very useful in anti-histaminic resistant urticaria with the duration of therapy being six months. It is cost-effective in low and medium-income countries and easily available.
Dermoscopic Evaluation of Longitudinal Melanonychia in Children
Authors: Ansari Mahshid Sadat , Mahmoudi Hamidreza , Sadeghinia Ali , Azizzadeh-Roodpishi Shadi , Ghanadan Alireza , Daneshpazhooh Maryam
Published: May 2024

Background:

Longitudinal melanonychia (LM) is a worrisome sign in both children and adults. Nail apparatus melanoma (NAM) can be related to LM, but it is very rare in children. Dermoscopic signs of benign lesions in children can be similar to melanoma; therefore, it is important to review dermoscopy of LM in children to make the best decision in performing biopsy.

Aims:

Biopsy taking is very challenging in LM in children. Most lesions are benign in children. The aim of this study was to review dermoscopic signs of LM in children and compare them with adults.

Materials and Methods:

In this prospective study a total of 108 LM (35 children and 73 adults) were undergone dermoscopy of LM. Dermoscopic features were compared in children and adults; both for benign lesions proven by biopsy or follow up and melanomas diagnosed histopathologically.

Results:

Black background, black band color, band color diversity and pseudo-Hutchinson's sign were more frequent in children in comparison with benign adult melanonychia. Some children's dermoscopic features of LM such as broad band width, Band color diversity, Hutchinson's sign, gray band color, asymmetry of pattern, and regression were similar to melanoma, but we did not find any melanoma by biopsy and/or follow up among children. We also detected the newly described "zigzag" pattern in four children.

Conclusion:

Dermatologists should consider all dermoscopic features of a lesion, dermoscopic sign changes in follow-up, medical, and familial history of the patient in deciding to perform biopsy of LM in children.
Unusual Spurts of Rosacea Like Dermatoses, Posing a Diagnostic Dilemma During Covid-19 Pandemic
Authors: Singh Gautam Kumar , Mitra Barnali , Bhatnagar Anuj , Mitra Debdeep , Talukdar Krishna , Das Pankaj , Patil Chetan , Sandhu Sunmeet , Sinha Anwita , Singh Teghveer
Published: May 2024

Background:

The gradual opening of healthcare system since second week of May 2020 following lockdown imposed due to corona virus pandemic saw spurts of cases of unexplained central facial dermatoses in subset of previously healthy people. The aim of the study was to find out the cause and establish the definitive diagnosis of unusual occurrence of facial dermatoses on previously healthy people so that an appropriate management can be offered to the patients.

Materials and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional, observational study carried during May 15 to July 15, 2020 at a tertiary dermatology center. All cases presented with erythema on face and papular or pustular lesions on central facial area of not more than 2 months of duration were included in the study.

Results:

Total 81 patients visited skin OPD with facial dermatoses of various types during this period, out of which 21 patients fulfilled the inclusion criteria. This was 0.72% (21/2900) of total skin OPD of the 2 months. All the patients had been using face masks during this period of symptoms due to the ongoing coronavirus situation. Dermatological examination revealed only erythema on the central area of face (n = 10), erythema and few papules (n = 3), erythmatous papules and pustules (n = 5), and erythematous papules, pustules, and telengiectasia (n = 3). All the skin biopsies showed predominantly epithelioid cells, noncaseating granuloma with a variable degree of infiltrate.

Conclusion:

There has been a definite change in the lifestyle due to the current Covid-19 pandemic. People are compulsorily using face masks to avoid the spread of Covid-19 infection. This change in behavior has brought out a surge of rosacea like lesions on the covered area of face. Partly, it can be explained by change in innate immunity due to excessive sweating and change in microenvironment of skin.
Knowledge and Treatment Behaviour of Acne Vulgaris among Female Students of University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Israel Chidinma E. , Ralph-Nwachukwu Chisom I. , Attah Cynthia A.
Published: May 2024

Background:

Acne Vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease, with a prevalence of about 80% among adolescents and adults.

Aim:

The study was designed to assess knowledge and treatment behavior of acne vulgaris among female students of the University of Nigeria, Enugu campus, Nigeria.

Method:

Descriptive survey design was adopted for this study. Three hundred and nineteen (319) female students of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus recruited through stratified random sampling were involved in the study. A questionnaire with a reliability coefficient of 0.80 Cronchbach alpha was used for data collection. Ethical clearance was obtained from the University of Nigeria, Teaching Hospital. Ethical principles of Informed consent, confidentiality and anonymity were maintained in the study. Data were presented in tables and analysed using descriptive statistics of frequency, percentages, means and standard deviation; and Chi-square (P < 0.05) inferential statistics.

Findings:

Majority (95.3% (304)) of the respondents have good knowledge of acne vulgaris. Consultation with a dermatologist was seen as very important for the management of acne vulgaris (M = 3.42 ± 0.62), removing acne by squeezing is not considered necessary (M = 2.04 ± 0.92) and the majority of the respondents (86.8%) use medically approved drugs and formulations like cleansers, exfoliants, sunscreen. No statistically significant relationship was found between the level of academic study and knowledge of acne vulgaris.

Conclusion:

Nurse educators must consolidate health campaigns on the evidence-based treatment options available for acne vulgaris. This is necessary to prevent complications arising from the use of untested dermatological products.
Efficacy and Safety of Eberconazole vs Sertaconazole in Localised Tinea Infection
Authors: Ravichandran Mirunalini , Srikanth S , Kumar B Aravinda , Munusamy Rajesh
Published: May 2024

Background:

Topical antifungals especially azole group of drugs are effective agents in the treatment of dermatophytoses producing 100% clinical and mycological cure. Each of them vary having specific characteristics to tackle several clinical challenges like high relapse rate, recurrences and quality of life.

Aims and Objectives:

To compare the efficacy and safety of Eberconazole and Sertaconazole in tinea infection.

Materials and Methods:

This was a randomized, observer-blinded, parallel-group study conducted at a dermatology out-patient department (OPD) of tertiary care teaching hospital in Puducherry. 85 patients with tinea corporis and tinea cruris infections who visited the dermatology OPD were enrolled in this study. The treatment phase involved two groups receiving either Sertaconazole 2% cream or Eberconazole 1% applied topically twice daily for 4 weeks. At the end of treatment phase, there was a 'follow-up phase' at the end of 4 weeks, where the patients were assessed clinically and mycologically. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics using MS Excel version 2019 and SPSS version 15 for Windows.

Results:

The primary efficacy variables namely change in pruritus, erythema, induration, scaling and mycological cure significantly improved in both the groups, as compared to baseline (P < 0.001), in the treatment phase and follow-up phase. Intergroup comparison with respect to pruritus and scaling showed significant difference (P < 0.001), suggestive of better reduction of pruritus and scaling scores at 4 weeks with Sertaconazole when compared to Eberconazole.

Conclusions:

Sertaconazole was better than Eberconazole in relieving signs and symptoms of dermatophytoses, especially pruritus, thereby improving patients' quality of life.
Beads and Beyond
Authors: Kar Debjit , Das Anupam
Published: May 2024

Background:

Rising number of the nonresponding dermatophytic infections raises deep concerns among the dermatologists across the nation. Variations in the quality of itraconazole may be a contributing factor to nonresponse in certain dermatophytic infections. This article will address this issue in a simple way of analyzing things in an OPD and may help us in being aware and taking the right foot forward.

Aims and Objectives:

To assess the quality of itraconazole brands by observing the morphological properties of pellets/beads in different brands.

Methods:

In this study, 10 brands of itraconazole that are commonly used in clinical practice were randomly selected. Pellet counts and qualitative morphological analysis of pellets as size (small, large, or mixed), shape (uniform or nonuniform), and presence of amorphous material was performed by three independent observers. Also, dissolution profile of some brands was assessed by adding the pellets in equal quantity of water.

Results:

The pellet counts of brands varied from 856 pellets per capsule in brand 1 to 109 pellets per capsule in brand 8. Brand 1, brand 2, and brand 7 pellets were small and uniform in morphology. Brand 3, brand 4, and brand 10 pellets were mixed in size but uniform in morphology. Brand 9 pellets were mixed and nonuniform whereas brand 5, brand 6, and brand 8 pellets were mixed in size, nonuniform in shape, and had presence of amorphous material. Dissolution test revealed that brand 5 dissolved rapidly and turned clear water color to milky white.

Conclusion:

A simple dermoscopy examination of itraconazole pellets may provide thoughtful insights about the quality of itraconazole brand. It may be considered as routine practice for all dermatophytic infection planned for treatment with itraconazole.
False-Positive Iodine-131 Uptake Due to Wasp Sting
Authors: Meenakshi Lakshman Aridhasan , Sundararaj Sai Kishore , Palo Akanksha , Nellaiappan M. Hariharasudhan , Pandit Nandini
Published: May 2024

A 38-year-old woman with papillary carcinoma of the thyroid who underwent total thyroidectomy followed by high-dose radioiodine ablation was called for Iodine-131 (I-131) whole-body follow-up scan. Her follow-up scan revealed focal tracer accumulation in the lower aspect of the right posterior neck region. Her stimulated serum thyroglobulin and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies were 0.27 ng/ml and undetectable, respectively. Further clinical examination of the patient revealed a black scab in the same region. The patient revealed a history of wasp bite 2 days before iodine administration.
Notable Visualization of the Gallbladder on a 99mTc-MDP SPECT/CT Bone Scintigraphy in a Case of Brucellosis
Authors: Haghighatafshar Mahdi , Farhoudi Farinaz , Entezarmahdi Seyed Mohammad
Published: May 2024

Comprehension of the typical distribution pattern of 99mTc-methylenediphosphonate (MDP) is crucial for precise interpretation of bone scintigraphy. The presence of nonskeletal activity is predominantly confined to the kidneys and bladder, attributed to the standard renal excretion of 99mTc-MDP. We discuss a 70-year-old woman with a known case of brucellosis using rifampin, doxycycline, trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole (co-trimoxazole), and ciprofloxacin for the past 8 months. Anterior and posterior aspects of the whole-body bone scan showed diffuse increased uptake in the bodies of L2 and L3 vertebrae and related intervertebral disks. However, unexpected uptake is noted in the right upper quadrant in the region of the gallbladder. Radiochemical impurities did not show during radiopharmaceutical (MDP) quality control, and the other patients showed normal distribution. This gallbladder uptake may be attributed to the altered distribution of the radiotracer and/or gallbladder injury caused by the administration of antibiotic therapy.
Rare Presentation of En Cuirasse Detected on 18-F FDG PET/CT in a Case of Recurrent Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Sagar Sambit , Khan Dikhra , Wakankar Ritwik , Shamim Shamim Ahmed , Kumar Rakesh
Published: May 2024

Carcinoma en cuirasse is a type of cutaneous metastasis from different malignancies. En cuirasse although is a rare entity, most commonly occurs in cases of recurrent breast carcinoma after surgery or very rarely months or years after diagnosis of primary tumor. We report a rare case of neck carcinoma en cuirasse in a 47-year-old Indian female who is a known case of recurrent carcinoma left breast postmodified radical mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy referred for fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography–computed tomography following another six cycles of chemotherapy for response assessment.
Diagnostic Approaches in Nuclear Medicine for Reproductive Health Assessment: Hysterosalpingography in Radiology versus hysterosalpingoscintigraphy
Authors: Asima Bushra , Jain Anurag , Biswas Jayanta Kumar , Mahato Abhishek , Vishnoi Madan Gopal , Tiwari Awadhesh
Published: May 2024

Background:

Infertility is a significant aspect of reproductive health and evaluating degree of tubal pathology is essential for determining appropriate management plans.

Aims and Objectives:

To assess the role of hysterosalpingoscintigraphy (HSSG) as a tubal patency test in nuclear medicine and compare it with hysterosalpingography (HSG) in radiology in infertile women and study pain perception in both tests as well.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective study was conducted on 50 infertility patients undergoing infertility evaluation at a tertiary care hospital. Both HSG and HSSG procedures were performed during proliferative phase of menstrual cycle.

Results:

Our study demonstrated the potential of HSSG as a tool for evaluating tubal patency in infertility workup. It showed good accuracy in detecting tubal patency compared to HSG.

Conclusion:

HSG is a radiological procedure valued for its ability to provide detailed anatomical information of uterus and patency of fallopian tubes. In contrast, HSSG provides dynamic information on the functional aspects of the reproductive system using nuclear medicine techniques. Both HSG and HSSG are vital tools in the diagnostic armamentarium for assessing female reproductive health, offering complementary information that aids in comprehensive patient management.
Immediate Effect of Mulligan's Mobilization with Movement on Forward Head Posture and Postural Sway in Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction
Authors: Sawant Rutuja , Heggannavar Anand , Metgud Santosh , D'Silva Pamela
Published: May 2024

Context:

Temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMJD) is defined as orofacial disorders including pain, clicking in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), fatigue of the masticatory muscles, and limitation of mandibular movements. TMJD is responsible for forward head posture (FHP) and postural sway leading to neck pain, headache, and absenteeism from work affecting their quality of life. Management of the dysfunction can alleviate pain and improve work efficiency.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the immediate effect of Mulligan's mobilization with movement (MWM) on numeric pain rating scale (NPRS), maximum mouth opening (MMO), FHP, and postural sway in participants with TMJD.

Settings and Design:

Pre-and postexperimental study conducted in tertiary care hospital in Belagavi, Karnataka, India.

Methodology:

Of 59 screened, 39 participants between the age group of 20–40 years of both genders were screened based on the scores obtained from Fonseca's Questionnaire and those eligible were recruited. One session of TMJ MWM was administered and outcome measures were assessed preintervention and immediately postintervention using NPRS, MMO, postural sway, and craniovertebral angle.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Wilcoxon matched-pairs test and paired t-test were used for pre-and posttest scores of variable.

Results:

After data analysis, the severity of pain, MMO, postural sway, and FHP showed significant improvement postintervention (P < 0.0001).

Conclusion:

One session of MWM for TMJ was effective in alleviating pain, improving mouth opening, postural sway, and FHP immediately posttreatment in participants with TMJD.
Comparison of Awareness of Physiotherapy Among Health Professionals and Nonhealth Professionals in Dharwad District, Karnataka, India – A Survey Analysis
Authors: Shruti T. , Javali S.B. , Sunkad Mohan Anantarao , Math C. M.
Published: May 2024

Context:

In the present-day health-care system scenario, physiotherapy has attained an essential component. The knowledge of physiotherapy and its treatment modalities is known to some extent only in metropolitan cities and towns.

Aim:

Hence, an attempt has been made to assess the awareness of physiotherapy among health professionals and nonhealth professionals in urban and rural population of Dharwad district.

Settings and Design:

A survey analysis conducted on Urban and Rural population of Dharwad, Karnataka, India.

Materials and Methods:

A convenience sample of 2000 individuals, in which 1000 individuals each with 500 professionals and 500 nonprofessionals were selected from urban and rural population of Dharwad. Data were collected through self and pretested questionnaires related to awareness of physiotherapy among health professionals and nonhealth professionals. Data were analyzed with an independent t-test and significance was set at a 95% level confidence interval (P < 0.05).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Karl Pearson's product-moment technique has been applied to find out the reliability.

Results:

The awareness of physiotherapy is better among health professionals as compared to the nonhealth professionals and statistically significant, t = 28.3221 (P < 0.05). The awareness of physiotherapy was better among urban nonhealth professionals as compared to rural nonhealth professionals and it was statistically significant, t = 3.8198, (P < 0.05). The awareness of physiotherapy was better among urban health professionals as compared to rural health professionals and it was statistically significant, t = 13.6710 (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

The awareness of physiotherapy was better among urban health professionals and nonhealth professionals as compared to rural health professionals and nonhealth professionals.
Correlation between Spinal Curvature, Back and Abdominal Muscle Strength and Physical Activity in Premenopausal Women with Low Back Pain
Authors: Mahishale Arati , Hakim Henna , Shetti Hrishikesh
Published: May 2024

Context:

Premenopause is the time before the cessation of menstruation and onset of menopausal symptoms. Information regarding the degree of association of spinal curvature, back and abdominal muscles strength, and physical activity to low back pain (LBP) in premenopausal women is underreported which is useful for awareness, prevention, and optimal treatment.

Aims:

The aim is to determine the correlation between spinal curvature, back and abdominal muscle strength, and physical activity in premenopausal women with LBP.

Materials and Methods:

Eighty-four premenopausal women aged between 45 and 55 years were selected based on the inclusion criteria. Three physical characteristics: spinal curvature, back and abdominal muscle strength, and physical activity were measured for all the subjects, and the relative association of each characteristic with LBP was assessed. International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) short form was administered to all the participants, flexicurve was used for spinal curve measurement, and manual muscle testing for abdominal and back extensor strength was recorded.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics and correlated using Pearson's correlation.

Results:

The mean kyphosis was 36.79° ± 6.41° and lordosis was 33° ± 7.75° According to MRC grading mean abdominal strength was 3.57 ± 0.68 (Grade 3: 53.6%; Grade 4: 35.7% and Grade 5: 10.7%) and back strength was 3.22 ± 0.52 (Grade 2: 4.8%; Grade 3: 67.9% and Grade 4: 27.4%). The mean IPAQ score observed was 1.94 ± 0.64 (low: 23.8%; moderate: 58.3% and high: 17.9%).

Conclusion:

An inverse relationship was observed between age, IPAQ score, lumbar lordosis, and back and abdominal muscle strength, with increasing age in premenopausal women there was a decrease in physical activity, lumbar lordosis, and back and abdominal muscle strength.
Tissue-Level Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Hamstring Muscle with Matrix Rhythm Therapy (MaRhyThe©)
Authors: Naik Varun , Parekh Vanshi , Patil Shivani
Published: May 2024

Ideal hamstring muscle length plays a very important role in maintaining posture. Preserving hamstring length or by treating for the tightness of hamstring is crucial to prevent hamstring muscle strain or low back pain. Matrix rhythm therapy (MRT, MaRhyThe©) is one of the novel approaches which is gaining popularity recently for improving function and flexibility, as well as alleviating pain in various musculoskeletal conditions such as frozen shoulder and plantar fasciitis. However, evidence is lacking where the effect of matrix at tissue level is researched. Therefore, the current study aims to determine the immediate and 24-h carry-over effect of MRT on hamstring muscle length, tissue thickness, and regional blood flow using diagnostic ultrasonography that was carried out on an apparently healthy 22-year-old female volunteer. MaRhyThe© was applied to bilateral hamstring muscles. The study concludes that MRT is an effective tool in improving the length, blood flow, and tissue thickness of the hamstring muscle. Thus, MRT can be considered as a treatment modality for muscle and fascia tightness.
Implementation of the Smoke-Free Policy in Medan City, Indonesia
Authors: Nasution Fauziah , Gurning Fitriani Pramitha , Siregar Putra Apriadi , Ahsan Abdillah , Kusuma Dian
Published: May 2024

Background:

Indonesia has an estimated 61.4 million current smokers, and the smoking prevalence among adults is persistently high while that among youth is increasing. In 2014, Medan city enacted the smoke-free policy (SFP) to protect community members against the adverse effects of smoking. Our study examines the implementation of SFP in terms of compliance and challenges.

Methods:

We conducted a mixed-methods study. Quantitative analyses examined the compliance with six criteria including having signage, no active smoking, no selling, no advertisement, no smoke, and no ashtray at SFP facilities. They included health facilities, educational facilities, places of worship, workplaces, and indoor/outdoor public facilities. The qualitative analysis examined the challenges through in-depth interviews of six key informants.

Results:

We found the overall compliance of 44%, ranging from 0% at outdoor public facilities to 83% at health facilities. We found relatively higher compliance among facilities within 1-km from the provincial and city health offices compared to those outside of the buffer (but not significant at 5% level, P = 0.070). The challenges identified were lack of budget, monitoring, enforcement, and sensitization.

Conclusions:

The implementation of SFP in Medan city still has lower compliance and faces many challenges.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) Infection-Related Stigma, Depression, Anxiety, and Stress in Iranian Healthcare Workers
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Ramin , Hosseini Seyed Morteza , Momeni Mina , Maghari Amirhossein , Fathi-Ashtiani Ali , Ghadimi Parmid , Heiat Mohammad , Barmayoon Pooyan , Mohamadianamiri Mahdiss , Bahardoust Mansour , Badri Taleb , Karbasi Ashraf
Published: May 2024

Background:

Psychological conditions aggravate during outbreaks. Here, we have discussed the existing COVID-19 depression, anxiety, and stress and the resulting stigma and its different aspects in Iranian health care workers and their 1st-degree relatives.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, information of our study groups (237 participants including health care workers and their nuclear family members) was collected via two online stigma and depression, anxiety, and stress scale (DASS) questionnaires.

Results:

The DASS questionnaire's mean depression, anxiety, and stress scores were 13.59 ± 5.76, 11.07 ± 4.38, and 15.05 ± 5.86, respectively, in our study population. Marriage status was effective on depression and stress scores. Married participants were having less depression (P = 0.008) but more stressful (P = 0.029) than single ones. Education was found to be effective on anxiety and stress scores. Those with an associate, master, Ph.D., and higher college degrees were significantly less anxious and stressed than those with a diploma or bachelor's degrees (P = 0.032 and 0.016, respectively, for anxiety and stress). Participants with a history of psychiatric conditions showed significantly higher depression, anxiety, and stress rates than those without a past psychiatric condition (P = 0.001). Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members suffer from severe stigma (mean stigma scores were 33.57 and 33.17, respectively).

Conclusions:

Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members in Iran suffer from severe COVID-19 related stigma. We also showed that depression, anxiety, and stress are common among Iranian Healthcare workers and their nuclear family members during this pandemic. This study showed that people with preexisting psychiatric conditions need extra mental care during the pandemic.
The Psychometric Properties of the Persian Versions of the Patient Health Questionnaires 9 and 2 as Screening Tools for Detecting Depression among University Students
Authors: Mohamadian Rasoul , Khazaie Habibolah , Ahmadi Seyed Mojtaba , Fatmizade Mehdi , Ghahremani Susan , Sadeghi Hossein , Ansari Zohreh , Ahmadi Ahmadreza , Zare Sadighe
Published: May 2024

Background:

Among the common mental disorders in societies, depression is one of the most common mental disorders that affects all groups and classes of society. Students are among the groups with the highest rates of depression. Therefore, the need for a short and effective tool for screening and early detection of depression is felt. The aim of this research is to determine validity, reliability and the best cut-off point of the patient health questionnaires-9 (PHQ-9) and patient health questionnaires-2 (PHQ-2) in university students.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 246 students of Kermanshah University of medical science in Kermanshah province of Iran. They completed the PHQ-2, PHQ-9, and the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). A structured interview was used to diagnose depression. To analyze the data, Cronbach's alpha for internal consistency, the intra-class correlation (ICC) for test–retest reliability, confirmatory factor analysis for construct validity, Pearson Correlation for Convergent validity, and receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve for Criterion validity was used.

Results:

The mean age of the participants was 20.43 ± 2.29. Cronbach's alpha coefficient for PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 was 0.82 and 0.80, respectively. The test–retest reliability based on intra-class correlation (ICC) for PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 after two weeks was 0.81 and 0.73, respectively (P < 0.001). The correlation coefficient between the PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 with the BDI-II was 0.74 and 0.64, respectively (P < 0.001). Confirmatory factor analysis showed that two-factor model and one factor model had good model fit. The best cut-off point score for the PHQ-9 was 10 with a sensitivity of 0.90 and specificity of 0.93, and the best cut-off point score for the PHQ-2 was 3 with the sensitivity of 0.71 and specificity of 0.92.

Conclusions:

The PHQ-9 and PHQ-2 are suitable tools to screen depression in the university students in Iran.
Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) Formulations with Functional Food and Nutrient Density for the Treatment of Malnutrition in Crisis
Authors: Hadi Saeid , Amani Reza , Tehrani Mostafa Mazaheri , Hadi Vahid , Hejri Sudiyeh , Askari Gholamreza
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) spread has been highly effective in the treatment of malnutrition in those affected by disasters since it does not require preparation and baking and has a long shelf life and sufficient energy to improve growth and weight loss. Such features may be crucial during crises such as wars and natural disasters. The present study aimed to design a high-energy and nutrient-dense RUTF formulation.

Methods:

Soybean flour and milk protein concentrate were used as protein sources, corn flour, and sugar were employed as carbohydrate sources, cacao butter substitute was used as the lipid source, and vitamin/mineral, beta-alanine, arginine, Nigella sativa, and sesame seeds were used as a functional food. The study was performed in accordance with the guidelines of the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and criteria for food products.

Results:

To design the formulation, we used carbohydrates (45% of total energy), protein (13% of total energy), fat (42% of total energy), vitamins, minerals, beta-alanine, and arginine, and 100 grams of the diet was considered to release 525 kilocalories of energy. The experimental results of food safety at the determined intervals (at the beginning and 45 and 90 days after the production) showed acceptable values.

Conclusions:

Since nutritional requirements are among essential human needs (especially in the management of malnutrition in crisis), it is of utmost importance to prepare RUTF products in order to meet all human nutritional needs by facilitating the easy use of these products, particularly for the prevention of malnutrition and diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects of a Period of Aerobic Training and Vitamin D Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women with Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Nazarabadi Parivash Najafi , Etemad Zaher , Hoseini Rastegar , Moradi Fatah
Published: May 2024

Background:

Inflammatory markers of blood are critical predictors of chronic diseases as well as exacerbating risk factors. Exercise is a well-known strategy to reduce the risk of inflammation and chronic disease. The present study aimed to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of a period of aerobic training and vitamin D supplementation (AT + Vit D) in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome.

Methods:

This quasi-experimental research was performed on forty-six patients with metabolic syndrome who were selected according to the available sampling method, and were randomly divided into four groups: AT + Vit D (50,000 IU), AT, Vit D (50,000 IU), and control (C). The training protocol consisted of 40–60 min of AT 60–75% of maximal heart rate, three times a week, for 8 weeks. One-way Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and t-test were used to compare the between and within groups; the Bonferroni post hoc test was used if significant differences were found.

Results:

The combination of exercise and vitamin D significantly reduced C-reactive protein (CRP) (P = 0.001), interleukin-6 (IL-6) (P = 0.001), and improved the metabolic syndrome indices (P = 0.001 in all indices). The results also show that the improvement in the metabolic syndrome indices, CRP, and IL-6 was more significant in AT + Vit D, compared to AT or Vit D alone.

Conclusions:

The findings from the present study suggested that a sedentary lifestyle and vitamin D deficiency accelerated the occurrence of metabolic syndrome probably by increasing the anti-inflammatory. Additionally, adequate levels of plasma vitamin D are necessary to achieve the beneficial metabolic effects of AT.
Psychometric Properties of the Persian Version of the Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire (MSWDQ) Questionnaire
Authors: Mirmosayyeb Omid , Shaygannejad Vahid , Najdaghi Soroush , Ghajarzadeh Mahsa
Published: May 2024

Background:

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) suffer from a wide range of psychological and physical problems. Employment status is a crucial issue for patients with MS as unemployment while it is not completely evaluated in patients with MS.

Objectives:

To assess psychometrical properties of the Persian version of the Multiple Sclerosis Work Difficulties Questionnaire (MSWDQ).

Methods:

One hundred and sixty patients were enrolled. They were asked to fill valid and reliable Persian version of the Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), social support scale, and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and translated version of the MSWDQ questionnaire. Twenty cases filed the questionnaire two weeks later to assess reliability. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC), Cronbach's alpha, correlation coefficients were used.

Results:

Mean age and mean duration of the disease were 36.8 ± 9.1, and 7.5 ± 5.1, respectively. The Cronbach alpha for psychological/cognitive barriers subscale was 0.87, for Physical barriers was 0.83 and for external barriers was 0.86. The Cronbach α for the whole questionnaire was 0.89. There was a significant positive correlation between FSS and MSWDQ score, and a significant correlation with SF-36 and social support. The ICCs of all questions were acceptable.

Conclusions:

Persian version of MSWDQ questionnaire is a valid and reliable instrument for evaluating work-related problems in patients with MS.
Prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Children with Renal Failure Underwent Treatment with Dialysis
Authors: Madihi Yahya , Tavakoli Reza , Riahinezhad Maryam , Mostofizadeh Neda , Mehrkash Mehryar , Rostampour Noushin , Hovsepian Silva
Published: May 2024

Background:

In this study, we aimed to investigate the prevalence of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in children with renal failure under treatment with dialysis and its association with biochemical measurements.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, children aged less than 18 years with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who were under treatment with dialysis at least 3 months ago were enrolled. To evaluate fatty liver in those patients who had no recent liver ultrasonography (last 6 months), liver ultrasonography was performed. The characteristics of patients with renal failure with and without NAFLD based on the ultrasonographic evaluation were compared. The association between NAFLD and the studied variables was evaluated.

Results:

In this study, 39 children (31 males and 8 females) with renal failure who underwent treatment with dialysis were included. From the studied population, six (19.4%) had NAFLD based on ultrasonographic evaluation. There were no differences between renal failure patients with and without NAFLD regarding the biochemical and anthropometric characteristics (P > 0.0).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of NAFLD in our studied children with renal failure who underwent treatment with dialysis was like the general population and it was not associated with the biochemical and anthropometric characteristics of the patients. Given the importance of NAFLD in renal failure patients as well as its subtle nature, it is recommended to screen patients with CKD for NAFLD.