bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioremediation Of Polluted Waters Using Nanoparticles
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Sri Ramakrishna College of Arts & Science for Women. Coimbatore., Meenakshi M.
Published: January 2022

Water pollution is an issue of great concern worldwide, contamination by organic compounds, inorganic compounds and microorganisms. Bioremediation using microorganisms helps in the removal of toxic metals from the environment. The focus is on the heavy metals associated with environmental contamination, lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), and chromium (Cr) which are potentially hazardous to ecosystems. In the present study textile effluent was collected, and subjected to Physicochemical treatment methods , Herbal-Metal nanocomposite was prepared and used to treat textile effluents. As a bioremediation study, the plant growth potential of treated effluents was evaluated using pot studies of an aquatic plant .Laboratory and field test results confirmed superior bioremediation efficiency and long-term effect. When compared to today’s most-efficient bioremediation technologies there is an efficient, fast, safe, and inexpensive way to clean up polluted waters through acceleration of natural bioremediation process. Nanotechnology provides an economical, convenient and ecofriendly means of wastewater remediation. The results obtained in this study shall be carried out as future studies using different types and concentrations of nanoparticles for the treatment of any types of effluents causing land and water pollution. There is a growing need for the development of novel, efficient, eco-friendly, and cost-effective approach for the remediation of inorganic metals released into the environment and to safeguard the ecosystem. In this regard, recent advances in microbes-base heavy metal have propelled bioremediation as a prospective alternative to conventional techniques.
CAVITY PROBLEMS AND THEIR MANAGEMENT IN POST MODIFIED RADICAL MASTOIDECTOMY IN PEDIATRIC POPULATION - A CLINICAL AUDIT
Authors: Afridi Habih Ur Rahman , Zada Bakht , Wahid Fazal -I- , Mashreqi Hamid
Published: January 2022

Objective: To find out the intensity and frequency of cavity problems of persistent and recurrent ear discharge in young children and their management in post Modified Radical Mastoidectomy (MRM).

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of ENT Head & Neck Surgery, Lady Reading Hospital MTI Peshawar Pakistan, from Jan 2015 to Dec 2019.

Methodology: Fifty-four patients with cavity problems of persistent and recurrent ear discharge needing treatment were included in the study (out of the total patients 234 operated upon). Patients were followed up for one year for any discharge of the mastoid cavity. Patients of both gender of age 15 years or younger were included in the study.

Results: In this study the cavity problems were found in 23.1% (54 out of 234) of the post modified radical mastoidectomy in pediatric population. There were no surgery related problems in 61.1% patients. In 38.9% (21 out of 54) percent patients repeat mastoidectomy was performed. Where as in 37% (20 out of 54) excision of granulation and conservative management was sufficient in curing the disease. High facial ridge was found to be the most common cause of persistent/recurrent discharge 9 out of 54 (16.7%). The independent variables (Indications for repeat mastoidectomy, Factors causing discharge, Surgery related problems) support the dependent variable treatment outcome. The sig/p-value was zero therefore the result was significant.

Conclusion: In post Modified Radical Mastoidectomy, the cavity can be dry provided meticulous care is given to complete exenteration of disease from all areas........
PERCEPTIONS OF TRAINEES ABOUT USE OF SIMULATION IN GYNAECOLOGY AND OBSTETRICS
Authors: Hafeez Maimoona , Sohail Nudrat , Waqar S H
Published: January 2022

Objective: To explore the perception of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (OB/GYN) postgraduates about the use of simulation in improving their clinical skills.

Study Design: Explanatory sequential mixed method design.

Place and Duration of Study: Obstetrics and Gynaecology department of Sharif Medical and Dental City (SMDC) Lahore Pakistan, from Jun to Oct 2019.

Methodology: By using a homogenous purposive sampling technique eight postgraduate residents from Obstetrics and Gynaecology department were recruited. The study had two phases: In the first phase, quantitative data was collected and analyzed while in the second phase qualitative data were collected by following the quantitative phase and then analyzed. This framework was tracked through the procedure of instrumental delivery with vacuum application in a real-life situation. A survey was conducted before and after the simulation training by using a researcher-developed Likert scale questionnaire. After that in-depth qualitative interviews were conducted. The improvement in clinical performance was evaluated by pairedsample t-test and thematic analysis.

Results: Significant performance improvement (p<0.001) after simulation training was reported. The thematic analysis revealed a lack of proficiency in clinical experience before simulation at behavioural and technical levels while enhancement in clinical experience after simulation at both levels. The perceived benefits of simulation with the major trends of simulation as time-friendly, as a source of deliberate practice, and as safe practice in the unthreatened environment were explored. The theme of suggestions was also explored.

Conclusion: The participants showed improvement in their clinical skills by describing the optimized benefits of simulation. Few of them are.......
DIAGNOSTIC ACCURACY OF SERUM FERRITIN AND SOLUBLE SERUM TRANSFERRIN RECEPTOR, TAKING BONE MARROW IRON STAIN AS A GOLD STANDARD FOR IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA IN HETEROGENOUS GROUP OF PATIENTS
Authors: Ashiq Tayyaba , Hafeez Ammara , Sattar Abdus , . Nasiruddin , Saeed Naureen , Mushtaq Faiza
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of serum ferritin and soluble serum transferrin receptor (sTfR), taking bone marrow iron stain as a gold standard for iron deficiency anaemia in heterogeneous group of patients.

Study Design: Cross-sectional diagnostic accuracy study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Diagnostic, Combined Military Hospital Lahore, from Mar to Aug 2020.

Methodology: A total of 55 adult patients, of both genders, undergoing bone marrow examination for any reason were enrolled. Patients with known hemolytic condition (sickle cell anemia, megaloblastic anemia), taking erythropoietin/iron supplements, transfused red cell concentrate (RCC) recently or undergoing chemotherapy were excluded. Age, gender, clinical history and results of bone marrow examination, complete blood count (CBC), serum Ferritin and C-reactive protein (CRP) were recorded.

Results: Serum ferritin was found to be less sensitive (28%) but more specific (100%) for reflecting reduced bone marrow iron stores as compared to sTfR (sensitivity: 60%, specificity: 96.6%). sTfR had highest likelihood ratio (15) and diagnostic accuracy (80%). On Receiver Operator Characteristic (ROC) graph Transferrin index (AUC=0.908) showed maximum accuracy, followed by Ferritin (AUC=0.884) and sTfR (AUC=0.879).

Conclusion: Serum soluble transferring receptor (sTfR) and transferrin index has advantage over serum ferritin alone in predicting the bone marrow iron stores and differentiating iron deficiency anemia from anemia of chronic disease.
FREQUENCY OF GENERALIZED ANXIETY DISORDERS IN PATIENTS WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME
Authors: Asghar Rabia , Zubair Usama Bin , Ali Syed Azhar , Khan Ayaz Muhammad , Shafi Aneel , Ahmad Hafiz Shafique
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the factors associated with generalized anxiety disorders in patients presenting with polycystic ovarian syndrome.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Gynecology and Psychiatric outpatient department of Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, SZABMU, Islamabad, from Jan to Jul 2016.

Methodology: Patients presenting with polycystic ovarian syndrome were enrolled. Patients were selected from the gynaecological and Medicine department. Patient’s history was taken and diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder was made utilising Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7. Patients having diabetes mellitus, hypertension, Cushing’s syndrome, hypoglycaemia, co-morbid psychiatric illnesses, history of psychiatric illness in past and family history of psychiatric illness were excluded from the study.

Results: Among 105 patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome, 79 (75%) patients had no generalized anxiety disorders while, 26 (25%) had generalized anxiety disorders. 2 out of 12 (16.6%) patients of age range of 15-20 year had generalized anxiety disorders, 9 out of 63 14.2% patients having age 21-30 years had generalized anxiety disorders and 15 out of 30 (50%) patients having age 31-40 years age had generalized anxiety disorders. Chi-square test revealed age, education level and socioeconomic status has a significant association with presence of generalized anxiety disorder among patients of polycystic ovarian disorder (with p-value <0.05).

Conclusion: Generalized anxiety disorder was common in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Age, low education level and low socioeconomic status had a significant relationship with generalized anxiety disorder in polycystic ovarian syndrome patients.
The DIAGNOSTIC CARDIAC CATHETRIZATION IN CHILDREN WITH TETRALOGY OF FALLOT: STILL RELEVANT IN DEVELOPING WORLD
Authors: Afshan Gul , Qureshi Ahmed Usaid , Haider Syed Najam , Kazmi Tehmina , Kazmi Uzma , Sadiq Masood
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the frequency of various anatomical cardiac anomalies and variations in children with Tetralogy of Fallot diagnosed by cardiac catheterization.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Children's Hospital and Institute of Child Health Lahore, from Jan 2010 to Dec 2018.

Methodology: All children with tetralogy of fallot underwent standard cine-angiograms after obtaining written consent following basic laboratory workup.

Results: Out of 425 patients, 398 completed cardiac catheterization. The median age was 6 years (interquartile range 3.5-9 years). Confluent Branch pulmonary arteries were present in 395 (99%) children. Pulmonary artery abnormalities were detected in 72 (18%) patients. Two hundred and eleven (53%) children had 283 major aortopulmonary collateral arteries with 88 having 2 or more major aortopulmonary collateral arteries. Out of all, 195 (92%) had hemodynamically significant Major aortopulmonary collateral arteries (supplying ≥3 lung segments) with 54 (28%) having small (<1.33mm at origin), 105 (54%) moderate (1.33-1.67 mm at origin) and 36 (18%) large (>1.67 mm at origin) caliber.

Conclusion: The frequencies of pulmonary artery abnormalities and various anatomic variations missed on echocardiography in the studied population were high. Diagnostic cardiac catheterization is still a relevant invasive diagnostic procedure in children with tetralogy of fallot.

Keywords: , , , , , , .
MATERNAL C-REACTIVE PROTEIN IN PREGNANCY AND ITS RELATION WITH EARLY ONSET NEONATAL SEPSIS
Authors: Zahid Muhammad , Zaman Saeed , Shahzad Sohail , Shah Sajid Ali , Javed Sana , Khan Ammara Mushtaq
Published: January 2022

Objective:To determine association of early-onset neonatal sepsis (EONS) in newborns of serum C-reactive protein positive mothers.

Study Design:  Cross sectional study

Place and duration of study:  Department of Pediatrics, Combined Military Hospital Quetta, Pakistan from September 2016 to March 2018.

Material and Methods: 105 neonates (both gender) of all mothers who were C - reactive protein positive were enrolled in this study using inclusion and exclusion criteria.Neonatal sepsis was diagnosed by clinical examination, which was carried out by senior pediatrician, blood complete picture and c reactive protein. Neonates were treated as per departmental protocol. Stratification was done in regard to gestational age, birth weight and age of neonates in hours. Post stratification chi square test was applied and p-value less than 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:Out of total 105 patients, 46 (44%) were male and 59 (56%)were female neonates. Amongst the babies of 105 CRP positive mothers, 79 babies were having signs and symptoms of neonatal sepsis and 26 babies were having no signs and symptoms of neonatal sepsis with statistically significant relation between maternal CRP and neonatal sepsis of p value <0.05.

Conclusion:Increased maternal CRP level is associated with increased risk of neonatal sepsis. Maternal CRP may be used as a good screening tool for early detection of neonatal sepsis.
IMPACT OF ILLNESS PERCEPTION AND COPING STRATEGIES ON QUALITY OF LIFE AMONG MIGRAINEURS
Authors: Bibi Humaira , Naz Summaira , Khan Mussarat Jabeen
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To find out the impact of illness perception and coping strategies on quality of life among migraineurs.

Study Design: Correlational study.

Place and Duration of Study: The sample was selected from different hospitals of Hazara Division, from Mar to Jul 2018.

Methodology: The sample of 300 migraineurs with age range 18-55 years was selected from hospitals of Hazara Division through purposive sampling technique. Brief illness perception questionnaire, The World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF) and brief cope scale were used for data collection.

Results: Illness perception significantly predicted (p=0.002) quality of life in positive direction. The results also explored that positive coping (p≤0.001) and problem focused coping strategies (p=0.002) predict quality of life significantly positively; whereas active avoidance coping strategies (p≤0.001) significantly negative predict quality of life; while religious denial coping was non-significant predictor of quality of life.

Conclusion: Illness perception has significant negative relationship with quality of life, problem-focus coping (PFC), and positive coping (PC). Illness perception has significant positive relationship with religious denial coping (RDC) and active avoidance coping (AAC).
The THE FREQUENCY OF MISMATCH REPAIR DEFICIENCY IN COLORECTAL CARCINOMA DETERMINED BY IMMUNOHISTOCHEMISTRY
Authors: Naseem Maria , Asif Muhammad , Din Hafeez Ud , Khadim Muhammad Tahir , Khan Ahmed Ahson , Jamal Shahid , Shoaib Iman
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the frequency of mismatch repair deficiency in colorectal carcinoma determined by immunohistochemistry.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Histopathology, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi, from Aug 2018 to Jan 2019.

Methodology: A total of 101 patients of adenocarcinoma of colorectum who underwent surgical resections and their characteristic and clinical data were recorded. Immunohistochemical stains were performed using antibodies MLH1, MSH2, PMS2 and MSH6. Results were interpreted and mismatch repair deficiency status of all patients was determined. Patients with loss of expression for MLH1, MSH2, PMS2 and MSH6 antibodies were observed and noted.

Results: In this study, out of 101 patients with CRC, 71 (70.3%) were male and 30 (29.7%) female. The mean age was (54 years ± 15.9). Amongst the 101 cases loss of immunohistochemical staining for MMR proteins was noted in 19 patients (18.8%). The combined loss of all four antibodies was seen in one case, loss of MLH1 and PMS2 in 7, MSH2 and MSH6 in 5 and MLH1 only in 6 patients. However, no mismatch repair deficiency was detected in remaining 82 cases. According to statistical analysis no significant association between mismatch repair deficiency and variables was found.

Conclusion: The frequency of mismatch repair deficiency in colorectal carcinoma patients was found to be 18.8% in our population.
COMPARISON OF MIRROR THERAPY AND MOTOR RELEARNING PROGRAM IN IMPROVING THE UPPER LIMB MOTOR FUNCTION OF PATIENTS WITH STROKE
Authors: Rauf Rabia , Rashad Abdul , Noreen Alisha , Intikhab Rabia , Suleman Tehreem Anis , Mughal Seemab
Published: January 2022

Objective: To compare the effectiveness of mirror therapy and motor relearning program for improving the upper limb motor function in stroke patients.

Study Design: A randomized control trial with registration number IRCT20200316046791N1 (IRCT).

Place and Duration of Study: Al-Noor Hospital and Al Jannat Medicare, Rahim Yar Khan Pakistan, from Jan to Jul 2020.

Methodology: Sample size consisted of 30 patients recruited by convenient sampling. Patients were randomized into two groups. Both groups received 5 sessions a week for 6 weeks. Group A received Motor Relearning Program while the treatment of group B was Mirror Therapy. Motor part of Fugl Meyer Assessment was used as an outcome measure. Non parametric Friedman test was used for within group analysis, while for between group analyses Karuskal-Wallis test was used.

Results: The total participants who suffer from left hemiplegia were 22 whereas the patients having right hemiplegia were 8. The mean age of participants in both groups was 53.80 ± 7.6 group A median (interquartile range) at pre-assessment was 5.00 (3) at mid-assessment median=15.00 (4) while at post assessment median was 25.00 (6). Group B median at baseline was 6.00 (4), at mid-assessment median=14.00 (9), post assessment median was 17.00 (13). Mid and post assessment comparison showed both treatments improved the motor function. Statistically the results were non-significant (p>0.005). Both treatments improved the motor function in stroke patients.

Conclusion: There is no significant difference between the effectiveness of Mirror Therapy and Motor relearning program in improving the upper limb motor function of stroke patients.
SARS COV-2 PANDEMIC: EXPERIENCE AT REFERENCE VIROLOGY LABORATORY SHORT RUNNING TITLE: SARS COV-2 PANDEMIC EXPERIENCE
Authors: Noor Misbah , Ghani Eijaz , Niazi Saifullah Khan , Rathore Muhammad Ali , Siddiqi Faud Ahmad , Shakoor Noman
Published: January 2022

Objective: To share our large scale SARS CoV-2 PCR test experience in Northern Pakistan.

Study Design: Prospective observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: Virology Department, Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi, from Feb to Dec 2020.

Methodology: All the patients reporting to COVID-19 desk both indoor and outdoor were included in study. Nasopharyngeal swab specimen was taken from the patients arriving at reception. For hospitalized patient’s samples were received at reception placed in viral transport medium maintaining cold chain.

Results: Among 193656 samples tested for SARS CoV-2 RNA by RT-PCR, 24338 (12.6%) were found positive and 169318 (87.4%) were negative. Mean age of patients was 38.25 ± 16.73 (1-110 years). 138781 (71.7%) were males and 54875 (28.3%) were females. 109765 (56.7%) samples were received from in patient department and 83891 (43.3%) samples were received from outpatient department. Highest number of cases (n=6224) seen during month of June followed by 5813 cases during May and 4786 cases during November (p-value <0.001). Most of the positive cases were in age group 21-40 years; 11122 (6%), followed by age group 41-60 years; 8133 (4.2%). More positive samples 14890 (7.7%) were received from in patient department and males 17928 (9.3%) were affected more than females.

Conclusion: The two peaks of COVID-19 pandemic in Pakistan were observed during the months of May to July and again during October to December. Most positive patients in our setup were males in age group 21-40 years as this age group is more exposed to external environment.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF INSULIN RESISTANCE IN PATIENTS OF POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME
Authors: Arif Amena , Waheed Palvasha , Anees Robina , Rashid Amir , Khan Saleem Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Objective: To assess the relationship between obesity and insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome affected women.

Study Design: Cross sectional comparative study.

Place and Duration of Study: Multidisciplinary Lab-I of Department of Biochemistry, Army Medical College, Rawalpindi, in collaboration with Pakistan Naval Ship Hafeez Hospital, Islamabad from Feb 2018 to Jan 2019.

Methodology: One hundred and five selected females (puberty till 25 years of age) were divided into three groups of 35 each. Blood samples were collected an overnight fast (from 8-11 AM). Serum level of insulin was measured and insulin resistance was calculated based on HOMA-IR.

Results: HOMA-IR concentrations correlated directly with Basal Metabolic Index, fasting plasma glucose and serum insulin levels. Mean serum insulin level was also elevated in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (normal weight & overweight) as compared to control subjects (7.4 ± 1.2 mIU/L & 9.1 ± 0.8 mIU/L vs 6.3 ± 1.1 mIU/L; p as 0.003). The insulin resistance was slightly higher in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome as compared to the control subjects (1.4 ± 0.3 & 1.7 ± 0.2 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3; p<0.001).

Conclusion: HOMA-IR levels are positively associated with BMI, the intensity of peripheral insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome-affected females, indicating that normal weight, and overweight patients with polycystic ovary syndrome have tendency towards insulin resistance.
DEMOGRAPHIC DETERMINANTS OF RELATIONAL AGGRESSION AMONG ADOLESCENT STUDENTS
Authors: Riaz Saima , Bano Zaqia , Anjum Razia , Ansari Sami Ul Haque
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the predictive relation of demographic variables with relational aggression.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Psychology, University of Gujrat, Gujrat Pakistan, from Aug 2017 to Jan 2018.

Methodology: A total of 612 adolescent students were selected with age 12-19 years from diverse academic institutes of Gujrat city. Urdu version of diverse adolescent relational aggression scale was used to measure relational aggression. Neural network analysis was carried out by using SPSS-21.

Result: The findings of this study revealed significant predictive relation of demographic variables (gender, birth order, family system, number of siblings and age) with relational aggression. The most important predictor of relational aggression in teenagers was birth order 0.249 (100%), age 0.246 (98.9%) siblings 0.242 (86.3%), family system 0.166 (66.8%) and gender 123 (49.6) respectively.

Conclusion: Demographic variables are the significant predictor of relational aggression. By managing the effects of these variables, adverse behavior of relational aggression can be controlled in adolescent students
COMPARISON OF ALVARADO SCORE AND RIPASA SCORE IN THE ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS OF ACUTE APPENDICITIS IN COMBINED MILITARY HOSPITAL RAWALPINDI
Authors: Majid Muhammad , Maqsood Rasikh , Ali Muhammad , Malhi Muhammad Ayub Ashraf , Hussain Zaki , Abbasi Muhammad Hanif
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of Alvarado score and the RIPASA score for acute appendicitis using histopathology as a gold standard.

Study Design: Cross sectional validation study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of General Surgery, Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi Pakistan, from Mar to Sep 2018.

Methodology: A total number of 270 patients were included in the study presenting with pain right iliac fossa to the Accident and Emergency department. Surgeons and Seniors Residents in Surgery on call in the Accident and Emergency Department. Combined Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, scored the patients with suspicion of acute appendicitis with Alvarado Score and RIPASA score simultaneously. After appendectomy of these patients, the removed appendix was sent for histopathology to confirm whether it was normal or inflamed. A 2x2 table was used for calculating sensitivity, specificity and diagnostic accuracy of the RIPASA score and Alvarado Score. The two scoring systems were then compared for diagnostic accuracy.

Results: In our study, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value and diagnostic accuracy of RIPASA score and Alvarado score for diagnosing acute appendicitis were 92.1%, 62.1%, 95.2%, 48.6%, 88.9% and 72.6%, 68.9%, 95.1%, 23.2%, 72.2% respectively.

Conclusion: The diagnostic accuracy of RIPASA score was more than that of Alvarado score in diagnosing acute appendicitis.
SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH: VULNERABILITY OF ATHEROSCLEROTIC PLAQUE IN CORONARY ARTERIES
Authors: Bukhsh Sumaira , Nasreen Samia , Tariq Hassan , Ali Syed Salman , Umer Muhammad , Zafar Nadeem , Din Hafeez Ud
Published: January 2022

Objective: To assess the vulnerability of atherosclerotic plaque in coronary arteries of individuals dying of ischemic heart disease.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Histopathology department, Combined Military Hospital Lahore, from Nov 2016 to Nov 2017.

Methodology: A total of 43 cases were taken in the study. The Autopsy specimens from the bodies of people dying suddenly of ischemic heart disease were taken into the study. Tissues showing autolytic changes and patients dying with coronary artery disease after corrective procedure like stenting and bypass were excluded.

Results: Out of 43 cases, 35 (81.4%) cases were positive for cluster of differentiation 68 (CD 68), 34 (79%) cases were positive for cluster of differentiation 105 (CD 105) & 36 (83.6) cases were positive for nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-Kb).

Conclusion: People who had died of ischemic heart disease have more vulnerable plaque in their coronary arteries as compared to the people who had died of non-ischemic cause. Early recognition of the un-ruptured plaque is important for the treatment strategies.
EVALUATING CONCEPT OF HEALTHY EATING IN RELATION WITH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY AND DIETARY HABITS AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS
Authors: Javed Ambreen , Ameer Sudaifa , Talib Hira , Bashir Irfan , Jamshaid Muhammad
Published: January 2022

Objective: To evaluate the physical activities and dietary habits and to determine the concept of healthy eating among university students of Pakistan.

Study Design: Cross sectional survey.

Place and Duration of Study: Three well reputed educational institutes of Lahore Pakistan, from Jul 2019 to May 2020.

Methodology: A questionnaire was used for data collection and validated scientifically as well as linguistically by experts. The questionnaire consists of 4 parts demographic and basic profile of participants i.e., body mass index, age, gender. The rest of parts used to evaluate dietary patterns, physical activities and participant’s concept for healthy eating. A total of 324 participants were included in the study and sample size was calculated by using Raosoft sample size calculator by keeping the population size as 200000. The data was collected through online protocols such as by sharing in social media groups of relevant universities. All the collected data was entered and analyzed by using SPSS-21.

Results: Out of 324 participants, there was a major cohort of female participants 202 (62.3%) as well as 209 (64.5%) participants were day scholars. The key findings of current study were observed that the students have satisfactory eating habits and 103 (31.8%) have an active lifestyle; 130 (40.1%) have a normal body mass index; only 142 (43.8%) have quite good nutritional knowledge.

Conclusion: The results specified detrimental behaviors influencing student’s dietary habits and they must be considered inevitable for interventions to be made and refining student’s responsiveness for acquiring a healthy lifestyle.
EVALUATION OF RISK FACTORS FOR INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS OF PREGNANCY IN PATIENTS PRESENTING TO A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Authors: Anwar Rabiah , Razzaq Kashif , Shahid Aysha , Afsheen Afeera , Tariq Amera , Saleem Irum
Published: January 2022

Objectives: To evaluate the principal risk factors associated with development of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) in patients presenting to a tertiary care hospital.

Study Design: Case control study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Pakistan Naval Ship Shifa Hospital Karachi, from Jan to Dec 2019.

Methodology: All pregnant women with symptoms of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy confirmed on history, examination and investigations were included. A comparison cohort of pregnant women with neither hepatobiliary nor medical illness associated with pregnancy was selected. Comparison of risk factors was done between both the groups.

Results: Out of 6932 obstetric patients, 90 (1.29%) had intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Pruritis was cardinal symptoms in all (100%) the patients followed by excoriation marks (75.55%). Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy was significantly found in women with multiple pregnancy (OR=1.81; 95% CI 0.51-6.42), antecedent intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (OR=36.81; 95% CI 8.53-158.79), family history of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (OR=17.80; 95% CI 2.29-137.91) and history of pruritis with obstetric cholestasis of pregnancy use (OR=16.25; 95% CI 0.91-289.08).

Conclusion: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy was observed in less than two percent cases. Risk of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy was found to be increased with multiple pregnancies, antecedent intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy, family history of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and history of pruritis with prior obstetric cholestasis of pregnancy use.
ASSOCIATION OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS WITH ABO AND RH BLOOD GROUP
Authors: Tasneem Asma , Naeem Samina , Uddin Nasir , Farid Maria , Jabeen Shehneela , Hafeez Ammara
Published: January 2022

Objective: To find out the association of type 2 diabetes mellitus with ABO and Rh blood groups.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Haematology, Combined Military Hospital Lahore, from Jul to Dec 2020.

Methodology: A total 179 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and 50 healthy individuals were inducted into the study. Five (5ml) blood from the patients was taken via clean aseptic venipuncture in a tube containing EDTA. HbA1C was generated through automated analyzer Cobas c501 and blood grouping was carried out using tube method by an experienced technician.

Results: A total of 179 (77.8%) individuals with diabetes mellitus type 2 and 50 (21.7%) healthy cases were inducted into the study as a control group. A statistically significant difference was observed with blood group B being the most prevalent among them (p=0.001). There was a greater frequency of Rh-negative blood group in patients having diabetes mellitus type 2 as compared to the control group.

Conclusion: There is a strong association found between ABO and Rh blood group with diabetes mellitus type 2. Blood group B negative was the most common among the patients having diabetes mellitus type 2. Blood group O positive showed the least association.
THE ASSOCIATION OF BODY MASS INDEX, BLOOD PRESSURE AND FASTING BLOOD SUGAR WITH GENDER IN THE UNITED NATIONS STAFF OF LIBERIA
Authors: Ibrahim Muhammad Imran , Nasreen Khalida , Kamal Shaheen
Published: January 2022

Objective: To determine the association of body mass index, blood pressure and fasting blood sugar with the gender in the UN staff of Liberia.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Level-II Hospital Monrovia, Liberia, from May to Aug 2017.

Methodology: This study was conducted in the United Nation staff of Liberia, at level-II Hospital, where, routine medical check was conducted and anthropometric measurements as well as blood pressure and fasting blood sugar values were noted. Body mass index, fasting blood sugar and blood pressure values were recorded and fasting blood sugar and blood pressure values were compared for its relationship with varying body mass index values.

Result: Total 300 individuals were monitored, out of them 226 (75.3%) were males and 74 (24.7%) were females. Mean weight of males was found to be 81 ± 14.6 Kg and for females 72.5 ± 11.6 kg there was found statistically significant (p<0.001) in both male and female and There was no significant difference of gender with Fasting blood glucose (p=0.395), systolic blood pressure (p=0.281) and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.425).

Conclusion: Significant association was seen between body mass index and blood pressure in both males and female as well as for fasting blood sugar in males. Hence, simple measurement of body mass index can be used as important health prognostic marker and thus can be used in regular routine medical assessment for maintaining and following healthy living.
RENAL DISEASE IN SYSTEMIC LUPUS ERYTHEMATOUS: ALL THAT GLITTERS IS NOT GOLD
Authors: Khan Hafiz Waleed , Arshad Abdul Rehman , Mir Abdul Wahab
Published: January 2022

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus may occasionally develop renal pathology from causes unrelated to the underlying disease. We describe one such case. This 22-year-old lady, with past history of arthritis, presented with dyspnea and fever. She had clinical signs consistent with systemic lupus erythematosus. Echocardiogram revealed valvular regurgitation. Antibiotics were started for probable infective endocarditis. She developed acute kidney injury. This was initially attributed to lupus nephritis, but subsequently renal histopathology revealed acute interstitial nephritis. Renal functions normalized with oral prednisolone. This case highlights the fact that a broader differential diagnosis must always be considered even if the diagnosis is clear.
THE EFFECT OF DIFFERENT COMBINATIONS OF CALCIUM HYDROXIDE FOR MANAGEMENT OF POST-OPERATIVE PAIN IN ACUTE APICAL PERIODONTITIS
Authors: Yousaf Ajmal , Ali Fatima , Bibi Afshan , Ahmed Ahsan Masood , Ashfaq Sana , Zahra Syeda Fatima Tu
Published: January 2022

Objective: To find the effect of different combinations of Calcium Hydroxide for the management of post-operative pain in acute apical periodontitis.

Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Operative Dentistry Armed Forces Institute of Dentistry, Rawalpindi. from Jun to Nov 2019.

Methodology: A total of 282 patients presenting with acute apical periodontitis in their mandibular posterior teeth were selected for this study and were randomly divided into three equal groups with the help of scientific random number table. Group-A patients were given intracanal dressing of Calcium Hydroxide mixed with Chlorhexidine, group-B patients were given intracanal dressing of Calcium Hydroxide mixed with Saline and group-C patients were given intracanal dressing of Calcium Hydroxide mixed with Dexamethasone. Endodontic therapy was initiated after application of rubber dam, following pulpectomy and disinfection with frequent irrigation, canals were prepared and intra-canal dressings were placed according to the allotted group and the cavity was restored till the next appointment. Post-operative pain was recorded at 24 hours, 48 hours and one week using the visual analogue scale.

Results: The three intra-canal combinations of Calcium Hydroxide used in the study were found to be equally effective in reducing pain. Overall, the result between the three groups after 24 hours proved to be insignificant (p=0.40), after 48 hours (p=0.84) and 1 week (p=0.45) were also insignificant.

Conclusion: Calcium Hydroxide mixed with Saline, Chlorhexidine and Dexamethasone are all effective for pain reduction with dexamethasone being the most effective.
Salivary Diagnosis of COVID-19
Authors: Shafiq Seema , Riaz Asim
Published: January 2022

Dear Editor,

It is indeed an honour for us to contribute towards the ongoing research regarding the latest contagion, Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) as caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) leading to global pandemic with variable clinical outcomes. COVID-19 positive individuals present with a variety of signs and symptoms as sore throat, cough, fever, dyspnoea, headache, myalgia, nausea, and vomiting whereas, some develop severe acute respiratory distress syndrome with a fatality rate of about 10%.1 Possible oral findings include xerostomia, hypogeusia, and chemosensory alterations. Common routes of transmission being person-to-person via direct sneeze, cough, and droplet inhalation or by contact through mucosa of eyes, nose and saliva.
SEMEN ANALYSIS; CORNER STONE IN EVALUATING INFERTILITY
Authors: Khan Aysha , Shahbaz Zunera , Yousaf Shagufta , Ahmed Abeera , Sana Fatima , Sana Fawad
Published: January 2022

Objective: To study the patterns and distribution of various abnormal semen parameters in infertile males.

Study Design: Cross sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Pathology, Combined Military Hospital, Karachi, from Nov 2019 to Oct 2020.

Methodology: The study included 364 patients who presented with primary and secondary infertility. Consecutive convenient sampling was done. Semen analysis was performed using World Health Organization latest guidelines. Samples were categorized as normospermia, azoospermia, oligospermia, asthenozoospermia and necrospermia.

Results: The study comprised of 364 samples of infertile males. Normal sperm count was observed in 317 (87%) males, azoospermia in 28 (7.6%) and oligospermia in 19 (5.2%) males. Low ejaculated volume and higher non-motile sperms were noted in oligospermia samples in comparison with normospermia samples. Asthenozoospermia was observed in 102 (28%) and oligoasthenospermia was noted in 15 (4.1%) samples.

Conclusion: Good quality semen analysis is a corner stone to diagnose the cause of male infertility.Sperm concentration and motility are the important markers of normal male reproductive system and are related to each other.
COMPARISON OF LOCAL METHYLCOBALAMINE INJECTION VERSUS LOCAL BUPIVACAINE INJECTION FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE HERPETIC NEURALGIA
Authors: Yasmin Ghazala , Raza Naeem , Bari Arfan -Ul- , Yousaf Farah , Saleem Summaya , Ahmed Najia
Published: January 2022

Objective: To compare the reduction in mean pain score with local Methylcobalamin injection versus local Bupivacaine injection in patients with acute herpetic neuralgia.

Study Design: Quasi experimental study.

Place and Duration of Study: Dermatology Outpatient Department, Pak Emirates Military Hospital, Rawalpindi, from Jun to Dec 2019.

Methodology: Total 100 patients, having pain score more than 3, fulfilling the selection criteria were divided into two groups. Group A was treated with daily subcutaneous injection Bupivacaine, whereas Group B was treated with daily subcutaneous injection Methycobalamin at the site of neuralgia. Patients were followed up for 4 weeks. The pain score was noted. All the data was entered and analyzed on SPSS version 21.

Results: In this study mean age of patients in group A was 43.82 ± 15.76 years and in group B was 44.76 ± 16.92 years. The mean visual analogue pain score at 4th week in the group A patients was 1.14 ± 0.32 and in group B was 1.90 ± 0.97. Statistically significant difference was found in group A (local Bupivacaine) with visual analogue score (VAS) at 4th week (pvalue=0.002).

Conclusion: The local Bupivacaine injection showed significant reduction in mean pain score than local Methylcobalamin injection in patients with acute herpetic neuralgia.
ASSOCIATION OF LATTICE DEGENERATION IN PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC SEROUS CHORIO-RETINOPATHY
Authors: Abidin Farooq Ul , Sarfaraz Muhammad Haroon , Javaid Hassaan , Khan Asfandyar , Khan Summaya , Javaid Haroon
Published: January 2022

Objective: To establish the association of lattice degeneration in patients with chronic serous chorio-retinopathy at tertiary care ophthalmology hospital.

Study Design: Comparative cross-sectional study.

Place and Duration of Study: Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology, Rawalpindi, from Sep 2019 to Dec 2020.

Methodology: The sample population comprised of 80 subjects which included 40 cases of chronic serous chorio-retinopathy and 40 controls. Chronic serous chorio-retinopathy was diagnosed by consultant ophthalmologist on basis of fluorescein angiography and spectral-domain optical coherence tomography. Peripheral retinal examination was done among all the study participants to look for lattice degeneration. Pearson chi-square test was applied to look for the relationship of various factors with lattice degeneration including the presence of chronic serous chorio-retinopathy.

Results: Two groups with equal number of subjects were included in the study. Mean age of the study participants was 49.14 ± 2.93 years. 60 (75.0%) participants were male while 20 (25%) were female. Fifty four (67.5%) had no lattice degeneration while 26 (32.5%) showed the presence of lattice degeneration on detailed ophthalmic examination. Chi-square test showed that having chronic serous chorio-retinopathy and use of steroids were statistically significantly associated with presence of lattice degeneration among the study participants.

Conclusion: Chronic serous chorio-retinopathy emerged as a condition strongly associated with lattice degeneration of peripheral retina. Use of topical or systemic steroids also increased the chances of developing lattice degeneration in our study population.
Functional Approach to Professional Discourse Exploration in Linguistics, edited by Elena N. Malyuga.
Authors: Cheng Le , Wu Zhonghua
Published: January 2022

N/A
RENDIMENTO E PERMANÊNCIA DOS ESTUDANTES DOS CURSOS TECNICOS DE NÍVEL MÉDIO INTEGRADO ANUAIS DO IF SERTÃO PE, CAMPUS OURICURI, FRENTE À PANDEMIA DO COVID-19 E AO ENSINO REMOTO
Authors: Carvalho Osmar Viveiros de , Oliveira Antônio Edinaldo de , Martins Pablo Renê Ulisses
Published: January 2022

O presente estudo teve como objetivo analisar o âmbito do processo de ensino aprendizagem dos cursos técnicos de nível médio integrado anuais do Instituto Federal de Educação Técnica e Tecnológica do Sertão Pernambucano, Campus Ouricuri, no tocante ao rendimento escolar e a permanência dos alunos nos cursos frente à pandemia do covid-19 e ao consequente ensino remoto, que trouxe consigo uma gama de desafios para a educação como um todo, em especial, para o ensino básico que não estava habituado nem preparado para um processo de ensino sem a interação presencial e social cotidiana, tanto em se tratando dos professores e escola de um modo geral, como dos alunos e seus responsáveis. O campus Ouricuri oferta cursos nas modalidades médio integrado, médio subsequente, educação profissional de jovens e adultos, formação inicial e continuada e licenciatura. No entanto o foco desde trabalho foram os cursos de nível médio integrado anuais ingressantes em 2020, mais especificamente agropecuária, informática e edificações por terem se iniciado justamente no período pandêmico, o que permite uma análise mais contundente tendo em vista peculiaridades do Campus Ouricuri, como a não retenção de alunos com várias reprovações e a medida adotada durante a pandemia de excluir as reprovações do histórico do aluno.
الحجاج في الشعر الجاهلي معلقة امرؤ القيس وطرفة ابن العبد انموذجا
Authors:   كلية التربية -الجامعة المستنصرية, عجيل سلطان الازبجي أ.م .د. جمال , حسين زاير أ.نرجس ,   كلية العلوم السياسية -الجامعة المستنصرية
Published: January 2022

يعد موضوع ( الحجاج ) من الموضوعات القديمة والحديثة في الوقت نفسه، ذلك أنه يمتد قدمه ويرتبط مع بدء الكلام والمجادلة, وهو حديث لأنه قائم على الدراسات والبحوث (ونظرية الحجاج ) بدءاً من ( أوستن وسيريل ) مروراً بـ ( شارل بريمان ) وصولاً إِلى (أرسطو ), ومن الجدير بالذكر هنا أن نذكر دور ( حازم القرطاجني ) في التنويه بالقيمة الحجاجية للشعر وقوله باستعمال الإقناع في الشعر, أمر سائغ ومقبول. ومن هنا جاء بحثنا تطبيقاً لهذه الآراء, وقد اخترنا ثلاث معلقات أنموذجا لذلك الأمر .
Towards sector-based attribution using intra-city variations in satellite-based emission ratios between CO2 and CO
Authors: Wu Dien , Liu Junjie , Wennberg Paul O. , Palmer Paul I. , Nelson Robert R. , Kiel Matthäus , Eldering Annmarie
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Carbon dioxide (CO2) and air pollutants such as carbon monoxide (CO) are co-emitted by many combustion sources. Previous efforts have combined satellite-based observations of multiple tracers to calculate their emission ratio (ER) for inferring combustion efficiency at regional to city scale. Very few studies have focused on burning efficiency at the sub-city scale or related it to emission sectors using space-based observations. Several factors are important for deriving spatially-resolved ERs from asynchronous satellite measurements including 1) variations in meteorological conditions induced by different overpass times, 2) differences in vertical sensitivity of the retrievals (i.e., averaging kernel profiles), and 3) interferences from the biosphere and biomass burning. In this study, we extended an established emission estimate approach to arrive at spatially-resolved ERs based on retrieved column-averaged CO2 (XCO2) from the Snapshot Area Mapping (SAM) mode of the Orbiting Carbon Observatory-3 (OCO-3) and column-averaged CO from the TROPOspheric Monitoring Instrument (TROPOMI). To evaluate the influence of the confounding factors listed above and further explain the intra-urban variations in ERs, we leveraged a Lagrangian atmospheric transport model and an urban land cover classification dataset and reported ERCO from the sounding level to the overpass- and city- levels. We found that the difference in the overpass times and averaging kernels between OCO and TROPOMI strongly affect the estimated spatially-resolved ERCO. Specifically, a time difference of > 3 hours typically led to dramatic changes in the wind direction and shape of urban plumes and thereby making the calculation of accurate sounding-specific ERCO difficult. After removing those cases from consideration and applying a simple plume shift method when necessary, we discovered significant contrasts in combustion efficiencies between 1) two megacities versus two industry-oriented cities and 2) different regions within a city, based on six to seven nearly-coincident overpasses per city. Results suggest that the combustion efficiency for heavy industry in Los Angeles is slightly lower than its overall city-wide value (< 10 ppb-CO / ppm-CO2). In contrast, ERs related to the heavy industry in Shanghai are found to be much higher than Shanghai’s city-mean and more aligned with city-means of the two industry-oriented Chinese cities (approaching 20 ppb-CO / ppm-CO2). Although investigations based on a larger number of satellite overpasses are needed, our first analysis provides guidance for estimating intra-city gradients in combustion efficiency from future missions, such as those that will map column CO2 and CO concentration simultaneously with high spatiotemporal resolutions.
Weight-to-weight conversion factors for benthic macrofauna: recent measurements from the Baltic and the North seas
Authors: Gogina Mayya , Zettler Anja , Zettler Michael L.
Published: January 2022

Abstract. The availability of standardised biomass data is essential
for studying population dynamics, energy flows, fisheries and food web
interactions. To make the estimates of biomass consistent, weight-to-weight
conversion factors are often used, for example to translate more widely
available measurements of wet weights into required dry weights and ash-free dry weight metrics. However, for many species and groups the
widely applicable freely available conversion factors have until now remained
very rough approximations with high degree of taxonomic generalisation. To
close up this gap, here for the first time we publish the most detailed and
statically robust list of ratios of wet weight (WW), dry weight (DW) and
ash-free dry weight (AFDW). The dataset includes over 17 000 records of
single measurements for 497 taxa. Along with aggregated calculations,
enclosed reference information with sampling dates and geographical
coordinates the dataset provides a broad opportunity for reuse and
repurposing. It empowers the future user to do targeted sub-selections of
data to best combine them with their own local data, instead of only having a
single value of conversion factor per region. The dataset can thereby be
used to quantify natural variability and uncertainty. The dataset is
available via an unrestricted repository from https://doi.org/10.12754/data-2021-0002-01 (Gogina et al., 2021).