bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Awareness about role of health literacy and self efficacy in tobacco cessation among primary health care workers: A quantitative questionnaire study
Authors: Garg Anuj , Sinha Abhishek , Kumar Nitesh , Singh Archana , Akhtar Saifullah , Singh Pankaj K.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

The purpose of this study was to measure primary health care providers’ understanding of the significance of health literacy and self-efficacy in cigarette quitting.

Material and Methods:

The current study used a quantitative descriptive questionnaire to collect data. The research was carried out among primary health care providers in a rural location near the Azamgarh Dental College in Uttar Pradesh. Medical officials, nursing personnel, and dental practitioners, if existent, are examples of primary health professionals. Azamgarh district is divided into 22 blocks. 22 primary health facilities were selected from these 22 blocks. 54 medical officers and 98 other primary health workers (ANMs, GNMs, and Asha workers) were questioned at these primary health facilities.

Results:

The majority of study participants {132 (86.84%)} were aware of the bad effects of tobacco consumption. Most of the study participants don’t know about health literacy {115 (75.65%)} and self-efficacy {78 (51.32%)}. The majority of them did not know the questionnaire to test health literacy {114 (75.02%)} and self-efficacy {150 (98.68%)}. poor mean awareness score (20.77 ± 3.33) was significant (p = 0.001) in the age group 25-35 years. Anganwadi workers were having significantly (p = 0.002) highest poor awareness score (22.67 ± 2.34).

Conclusion:

From the above results, it was concluded that awareness of the role of health literacy and self-efficacy in tobacco cessation among primary health workers was poor. Almost all study participants had not attended any training programs on tobacco cessation.
Clinico-pathological study among COVID-19 patients during the second wave of COVID-19 pandemic in Andaman Nicobar Island- ”A retrospective cross-sectional study”
Authors: Zumu Mhasisielie , Padhy Prodeep K. , Choudhury Sampa , Shail Kausheen , Singh Mairaj M. , Thomas Beeson
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a Union Territory of India is Tropical Island, has better air quality and since its specific geographic location that may have an impact on the clinical and pathological features. So, this study is intended to describe the clinical and pathological features of COVID-19 infection and its association with the severity of the disease among adult COVID-19 patients.

Material and Method:

A cross-sectional study done retrospectively among 100 adult COVID-19 RT PCR positive in Tertiary Hospital, tropical Islands by reviewing medical records. The clinical, laboratory parameters were assessed.

Results:

In the study 65% of the population were male, and 55% of COVID-19 cases were between the age group of 25 to 50 years of age. At presentation, 96% had respiratory symptoms, 91% had fever, 33% had gastrointestinal symptoms, 10% had musculoskeletal symptoms, and 6% have a history of contact with COVID-19 positive patients. The severe COVID-19 patients had longer duration of fever (P-value 0.041), duration of cough (P 0.016), duration of breathlessness (P 0.002), high pulse rate (P = 0.031) at presentation, had high neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (P = 0.001), high neutrophil count (P < 0.001), low lymphocyte count (P < 0.001), high CRP (P < 0.001), and high D-dimer (P < 0.001) at presentation.

Conclusion:

Severe COVID-19 patients at presentation had longer duration of fever, cough, and breathlessness, hence should seek early medical care. Lab parameters is a great tool in the assessment of patient who can go to have severe disease and thus help in formulating Guidelines.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice among primary health-care and obstetrics and gynecology physicians in postpartum care services in National Guard Hospital, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hemedy Rawan A. , Abbas Salwa I. , Alsabban Ahmad S. , Aldosary Taghreed A.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

The postpartum period, also known as the fourth trimester, is defined as the first 12 weeks postpartum. Primary health care (PHC) plays an important role in providing a comprehensive postpartum care to mothers. This study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of postpartum care among PHC physicians and obstetrics and gynecology physicians.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional study to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice of PHC physicians and obstetrics and gynecology physicians in postpartum care services at Western Region, Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS; version 27.0) was used for data analysis. Proportions and tables were used to summarize categorical data.

Results:

A total of 159 responses were analyzed with 65.4% response rate. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) for knowledge score was 15 (13–17). The median (IQR) for attitude was 20 (18–22), while the median (IQR) for practice total scores was 3 (2–4). Knowledge and practice scores showed significant differences between all the groups. On the other hand, attitude only showed significant differences between males and females, favoring a better attitude among females (P = 0.014).

Conclusions:

There were good levels of KAP associated especially with female physicians and higher physician levels. Minor differences were noticed between different groups in our sample according to age, gender, specialty, and years of experience.
Vessel wall calcification and vascular event: Are we concerned enough?
Authors: Chakraborty Debabrata , Mukherjee Tamashis , Das Sankha S. , Gobinda Pramanick , Mukhopadhayay Sushan
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

A 49-year-old lady, hypertensive with dyslipidaemia, had thalamic bleed with intracranial multiple micro-haemorrhages. An extensive search was done and vasculitis was ruled out in the patient. Henceforth, she remained strict with medications and maintained blood pressure and lipids under control. After a lucid interval of 3 years, she attended emergency with complex partial seizure. We detected extensive microbleeds (significant increment) in magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and periventricular ischemic changes. A cerebrospinal fluid study and digital subtraction angiography of the brain were consistent with primary central nervous system (CNS) vasculitis (small vessel). She improved and currently is well on follow-up with immunosuppressive therapy. Interesting learning part in our case was late presentation of the patient with primary CNS vasculitis after a latency. It implies requirement of strong suspicion and stringent follow-up in these types of patients.
Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment test and Timed Up and Go test as predictors of falls in the elderly – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sakthivadivel Varatharajan , Geetha Jeganathan , Gaur Archana , Kaliappan Ariyanachi
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Falls are common in the elderly and frequently have serious consequences, which lead to physical and psychological complications. Assessment of fall risk in the elderly is performed by using functional assessment tools that assess the muscle strength, balance, functional mobility, and gait. Timed Up and Go test (TUG) assesses functional mobility and the Performance-Oriented Mobility Assessment test (POMA) assesses balance, postural control, and gait. Aim: This study compares the TUG test and POMA test in fall prediction among elderly patients.

Materials and Methods:

Patients with acute illness, acute painful lower limb conditions, dementia, severe depression, and those who are not willing were excluded from the study. Patient demographic data, co-morbidities, habits, and risk factors such as a previous history of falls, arthritis, depression, and vision impairment were noted. Gait and balance were assessed by the TUG and POMA tests. TUG and POMA were compared with the patients with a history of falls.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 70.79 ± 5.38 years. The females (57.6%) were more than the males. Hypertension was the commonest co-morbidity (54.4%). Out of 340 subjects, 105 subjects had a history of falls. The sensitivity of the TUG and POMA tests was 76.2 and 69.5%, respectively, and the specificity was 91.1 and 89.8%, respectively. The Kappa values were 0.680 and 0.606, respectively. POMA (r = –0.372) was negatively correlated to falls and TUG (r = 0.642) was positively correlated to falls.

Conclusion:

TUG is a useful measure for determining the risk of falling in older persons.
Enhancing safe motherhood: Effect of novel partograph on labor outcomes and its utility: An Indian perspective
Authors: Sharma Shivani , Parwez Saroj , Batra Kiran , Pareek Bharat
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Safe motherhood ensures safe pregnancy and childbirth. One of the noteworthy causes of maternal morbidity and mortality is the complications arising from prolonged or obstructed labour. World Health Organization recommends the use of partograph to significantly reduce the maternal mortality crisis. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a novel partograph in terms of maternal and perinatal outcomes along with its utility.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 400 intranatal women were selected in a non-randomized control trial to evaluate the effectiveness of novel partograph on selected maternal and perinatal outcomes. Subjects in experimental group (n=200) received care with newly developed partograph whereas subjects in control group (n=200) received standard care. Effectiveness was determined at a significance level of α ≤ 0.05. Utility of the novel partograph was determined as perceived by nurses.

Results:

There was significant reduction in the duration of the 1st and 2nd stage of labour (P=0.023 and 0.006 respectively) and number of vaginal examinations performed during labour (P=0.017) among mothers in the experimental group. Significant improvement in the Apgar score (P=0.005) was also observed among the infants of mothers in experimental group. Novel partograph was considered as of having extreme utility by 71% nurses.

Conclusion:

Study concluded that subjects monitored by the partograph experienced improved maternal and perinatal outcomes. It was found to be having extreme utility.
Oral health status among Bhoi children of Nimapara block in Puri district, Odisha – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kumar Gunjan , Jalaluddin Mohammad , Jena Samikshya , Bagchi Anandamoy , Tripathi Ranjan Mani , Das Satyabrata
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

In Odisha, the scheduled castes account for 17.13% of the overall population. In spite of prioritizing the oral health status of children globally, oral diseases continue to be a major public health problem in India. Due to lack of literature and baseline data, the aim of the study was to assess the oral health status of children of Bhoi scheduled caste of Nimapara block in Puri district of Odisha.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 208 Bhoi children who were enrolled using a multistage randomized sampling method in Nimapara Block of Dhanua Gram Panchayat, Puri District. Information on sociodemographic details and oral health status were collected using the modified WHO Oral Health Assessment Form for children, 2013. Number and percentages was derived using MS Excel and SPSS package version 26.0. Comparison between discrete and continuous data was done using Chi-square test and ANOVA. P value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

The mean DMFT and dmft of the total study participants were 1.28 ± 1.159 and 2.53 ± 1.058, respectively, and these findings were statistically significant (p < 0.05). Among the age group of 6-12 years, the mean number of sextants with bleeding and calculus were 0.66 ± 0.476 and 0.62 ± 0.686, respectively, and among 13-15 years aged group, they were 0.86 ± 0.351 and 1.52 ± 0.688. Mild fluorosis was detected in the study population. Dental trauma was seen in 21% of the Bhoi children.

Conclusion:

Most of the participants had poor oral hygiene and the prevalence of dental caries was high. As there is lack of knowledge about oral hygiene maintenance, proper health education should be administered. Under these circumstances, the implementation of preventive programs such as pit and fissure sealants, atraumatic restorative restorations can be implemented to reduce the dental caries.
Role of steroid on management of limb swelling and local pain in haematotoxic snake bite
Authors: Ghosh Manas , Acharyya Amitava , Bhattacharya Paramita , Chakrabortty Supratick
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Local Pain and swelling in the biting area of haematotoxic snake bite victims are very common symptoms. This study was conducted to retrospectively observe the effect of oral Tab Prednisolone on a short-term basis as an add-on therapy of haematotoxic snake bite management in respect of Local Pain and swelling recovery.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective descriptive study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in West Bengal among 36 haematotoxic snake bite victims, admitted from February 2020 to January 2021. After collection of the data from hospital records and screened by inclusion and exclusion criteria, 36 participants were included in two groups based on the treatment regimen. Group A (n: 24) received only conventional treatment and Group B (n: 12) received oral Tab Prednisolone on a short-term basis as an add-on therapy of conventional treatment. Swelling was measured as a distance from the site of the bite with measuring tape in centimeters and pain was measured by a numerical rating pain scale (NRS) between 0 and 10. Ethical permission has been waived from the Institutional Ethical Review Committee.

Result:

A total of 36 patients (32 male and 4 female) were included in the study. Age (Mean ± SD) of the snake victim persons in Group A and Group B were 35.79 ± 8.34 years and 31.33 ± 6.47 years, respectively. The local swelling length and pain score reduced significantly among group B patients on day 6 in comparison to day 2. However, in Group A, the pain score and local swelling increased significantly on day 6 in comparison to day 2.

Conclusion:

A short course of systemic steroids as an adjuvant with anti-venom serum (ASV) for the management of local pain and edema in case of haematotoxic snake bite may be beneficial if there is no contraindication.
Community-based appraisal of menopause-specific health problems and quality of life among women of rural Western Maharashtra
Authors: Sheereen Fatima , Kadarkar Kalpak S.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Menopause is an important hormonal transition of women’s lifespan which can strike as early as 30–35 years of age. Menopause-specific quality of life (MENQoL) mainly depends upon awareness, frequency, and intensity of menopausal symptoms; sociocultural, lifestyle, and dietary factors; and availability of health services specifically focusing on these issues. As life expectancy increases, women have to spend more years after menopause. So menopause specific quality of life will be a major issue of concern in the near future. The aim of this study was to assess the post-menopausal symptoms and quality of life (QoL) amongst post-menopausal women and their association with various sociodemographic factors.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was undertaken at Sakuri village among 100 postmenopausal women. Information was collected using MENQoL questionnaire. Unpaired t-test and Chi-squared test were used.

Results:

The mean age of participants and menopause was 51.8 ± 4.54 years and 46.42 ± 4.13 years, respectively. The major symptoms reported were hot flushes (70%), under accomplishment (100%), bloating (100%), decrease in physical strength (95%), and change in sexual desire (78%). Statistically significant association was found between age and psychosocial domain. QoL was associated with age and educational level.

Conclusion:

More than half of the participants had poor QoL for all four domains. Awareness about post-menopausal changes and available treatment modalities can improve QoL. Accessible and affordable gynaecological and psychiatric health services through channel of primary health care are necessary to alleviate these complaints.
Interaction between warfarin and molnupiravir in a patient with coronavirus disease 2019 infection
Authors: Mizutani Hikari , Koide Tetsuro , Omura Takashi , Ito Kumiko
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Molnupiravir is a novel antiviral agent for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) treatment. Warfarin is an oral anticoagulation agent with difficult management due to drug interactions. Here, we describe a case of international normalized ratio (INR) prolongation in a patient who administrated warfarin with molnupiravir for COVID-19. An increased INR at 3.80, enough to discontinue warfarin, was observed on the fifth day of molnupiravir therapy, although the warfarin dose and INR were stable at 4 mg/day and approximately 2.0 before the molnupiravir initiation, respectively. Factors that affect the INR, such as severe COVID-19, cytokine, diet, liver dysfunction, and the concomitant use of medications other than molnupiravir, were unlikely in this patient. This case suggests that healthcare physicians should be aware of the possibility of drug interaction between molnupiravir and warfarin.
Pattern and clinico-epidemiological profile of female patients of RTI/STIs attending an STI clinic in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Sharma Shloka , Saxena Vartika , Mundhra Rajlaxmi , Garg Deepanshi , Mallick Bhawana Kumari , Bahadur Anupama
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Reproductive tract infections/sexual tract infections (RTI/STIs) have a huge economic impact in terms of costs of healthcare, loss of productivity and the long-term sequelae.

Aims:

This study was aimed at documenting the pattern of RTI/STIs and clinico-epidemiological profiles of patients attending an STI clinic.

Settings and Design:

Seventy-six female patients attending the STI clinic at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, AIIMS Rishikesh between November 2017 and March 2018 were recruited after taking informed verbal consent in this cross-sectional study.

Methods and Materials:

All patients were evaluated and managed according to the syndromic approach (NACO). Patients were interviewed and data were entered into a semi-structured questionnaire.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were analysed using Microsoft Excel 2016 (Microsoft Corporation, released September 22, 2015).

Results:

The average age of the patients was 34.46 ± 8.77 years, with a maximum of patients (41%) in the age group 25–35 years. The majority of patients were from an urban background (62%), Hindu (91%), married (95%) and housewives (74%). Most had some level of formal education (97%) and belonged to the lower middle class (43%). The most common diagnosis was lower abdominal pain (LAP) (68%) followed by vaginal/cervical discharge (VD/CD) (30%). Only one patient out of 76 had genital ulcer disease - herpetic (GUD-H).

Conclusions:

There is a need for focussed community-based interventions targeting the young, urban, lower-middle-class population to reduce the burden of STIs, particularly LAP.
Salivary biomarkers in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Ubhale Rutuja , Dahake Sampada , Madhu Priyanka Paul , Chhabra Kumar Gaurav , Reche Amit , Bankar Anjali , Kriplani Simran , Adwani Barkha
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

The use of salivary biomarkers in diagnosis, treatment, and overall prognosis of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been developed recently. Salivary biomarkers are extremely promising as they are fast to obtain and involve noninvasive collection of specimens. Monitoring patients in real time is necessary in this pandemic. Saliva is another biofluid with major advantages at the molecular level. Methods that detect viral presence in the host secretions measure the current infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), whereas the detection of human antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 evaluates the past exposure to the virus. There is an urgent need to increase the active research for the detection of SARS-CoV-2 in saliva because diagnostics may provide a reliable and cost-effective method and is suitable for the fast and early detection of COVID-19 infection. Salivary biomarkers have a potential to be a vital guide in determining coronavirus disease. Many people still do not get results of COVID-19 tests due to imbalance between supply and demand at large testing centers. The use of saliva has various advantages compared to collection of nasopharyngeal swabs. New techniques should be developed for detecting salivary biomarkers that help in diagnosis of COVID-19.
Concept development of “Aging in place”: Application of hybrid model
Authors: Barati Farzaneh , Khoddam Homeira , Modanloo Mahnaz
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

There are various methods and services which help elders protect their independency and ability and take care. Like aging in place (AIP), that is a home and community-based model. Despite its importance, this concept is still ambiguous and there is no comprehensive definition for it. This study aims to clarify and conceptualize the meaning of AIP and to develop a context-based definition. In this qualitative study, the concept was developed using a hybrid model during three theoretical phases, fieldwork and final analysis. In the theoretical phase, 30 selected articles, following a systematic search in Web of sciences-Scopus-PubMed databases using the keywords “Aging in place”, “Aging at home” and “Aging in community”, during 2000–2019 were screened and analyzed. After providing the working definition, the fieldwork phase directed qualitative content analysis was performed on interviews conducted with seven eligible elderly. Finally, in the final phase, after comparing the findings of the previous two phases, the final definition was presented. The results of the hybrid model extracted and identified various definitions of AIP and attributes, antecedent and consequences of AIP. attributes included; independency, belonging to the place, maintaining network, living in one’s own home and community, safety, comfort, non-institutionalization, first preference, and life routines continuity. Antecedents included; health, physical environment, financial ability, socialization, information support, technology, AIP antecedent prediction, community services and transportation. Finally, Consequences included; Individual acceptability and community acceptability. Also final definition was provided. If the AIP and its related factors are known and provided so that elders can stay in their homes, then they do not have to choose a nursing home and thus stay out of the community. As a result, following the AIP, both the elderly and community will be satisfied.
Role of family physicians in providing primary healthcare during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Garg Suneela , Engtipi Kajok , Kumar Raman , Garg Arvind
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

According to the World Health Organization, over 41 million cases of COVID-19 and 1 million deaths have been reported globally. More than 7 million cases of coronavirus have been reported in India alone. The growing number of cases of coronavirus worldwide poses numerous challenges to the country’s current healthcare delivery system, especially in developing nations such as India. In such a situation, the task of maintaining continuity in the provision of comprehensive primary healthcare services in the community becomes a big challenge. This article discusses how family physicians can help to augment the healthcare system at the time of pandemic by providing easily accessible, holistic healthcare and by use of telemedicine. It also talks about the need to mainstream family medicine into the undergraduate and postgraduate medical curriculum and establish a robust network of family physicians trained in outbreak response and disease preparedness. For this study we looked for all papers with the terms ‘Family physician’, ‘COVID-19’, ‘pandemic’, and ‘Primary health care’. Databases searched include PubMed, Google Scholar and DOAJ, using key words – family physician, family medicine, primary healthcare, COVID-19, and pandemic in different combinations.
Operational efficiency and out-of-pocket expenditure in attendees of anti-rabies vaccination: A time and motion study
Authors: Patnaik Asmita , Dash Anshuman , Pradhan Srabani , Nanda Sikata
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background and Aim:

Throughout the world, many healthcare settings have started using time and motion studies to improve their work pattern and efficiency whose basic purpose is to know the exact time taken in different service delivery points as well as to assess the perception of beneficiaries regarding the total time spent in the Outpatient Department (OPD). The aim of this study is to assess the operational efficiency as well as the satisfaction of patients attending the anti rabies vaccination (ARV) OPD.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out in a referral teaching hospital from 1st July to 31st August 2021. The study population comprised of animal bite patients attending the hospital. Data was collected using a pre-designed semi-structured questionnaire and a 5-point Likert scale.

Results:

The majority of patients were female, i.e., 811 (56.3%), and were between 15 to 30 years of age, i.e., 439 (30.5%). Maximum time was spent by patients in the OPD on Mondays. The mean time spent at Niramaya by new cases was 14.80 ± 6.09 minutes, whereas the same was 0.23 ± 1.89 minutes for follow-up cases. More than half of the respondents, i.e., 56.3% and 55.9%, found the time spent at consultation and the pace of registration to be satisfactory, respectively.

Conclusion:

Decentralization of registration counters is much needed to provide quality services to the patients.
Impact of cognitive impairment on activities of daily living among older adults of North India
Authors: Panghal Charu , Belsiyal C Xavier , Rawat Vikram Singh , Dhar Minakshi
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Older persons are at risk of developing cognitive impairment, often considered a precursor to more severe conditions, such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Cognitive impairment among older adults is one of the most rapidly growing burdens, especially in developing countries.

Aim:

To assess the impact of cognitive impairment on activities of daily living (ADL) among older adults.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 135 older adults visiting a selected tertiary care centre in Uttarakhand (India) during December 2020, recruited using total enumerative sampling. Data were collected using standardized and validated tools that consisted of socio-demographic information, Hindi Mental Status Examination, and Everyday Abilities Scale for India. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23, including descriptive (frequency, percentage, mean, and median) and inferential statistics (Chi-square test, binary logistic regression).

Results:

The results with pooled analysis have shown that 30% of the older adults had mild cognitive impairment, 9% had moderate cognitive impairment, and 61% had normal cognition. About 16% of the older adults’ ADL were affected. The statistically significant predictors for cognitive impairment were age group 80 years [odds ratio (OR) = 36.21; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 6.23–210.59], Muslim religion (OR = 6.26; 95% CI = 1.12–34.93), and middle-class families (OR = 11.95; 95% CI = 1.84-77.78).

Conclusion:

A considerably large proportion of the older adults had cognitive impairment, which further impacted activities of daily living. There is an urgent need to develop geriatric mental health services across all hospitals in the region.
Knowledge and attitude of paediatric first aid among elementary schoolteachers in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsulami Maher , Madkhali Abdulaziz A. , Alharbi Majed T. , Alzahrani Abdulaziz R. , Aljohani Ibrahim N. , Al-Thaqafy Majid S. , Alsulami Adnan A. , Eldigre Mohamed , Aloraibi Saleh
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Children at schools are at risk of getting injuries during their activities. In the absence of medical support and delays in ambulance arrival, teachers are the first responders to provide first aid when accidents occur. There is a lack of information about schoolteachers’ awareness and knowledge about first aid administration. This study aimed to assess the current level of knowledge and attitude toward paediatric first aid among elementary schoolteachers in Jeddah of Saudi Arabia.

Methodology:

This is a cross-sectional study. An online questionnaire-based survey was administered to teachers in primary male schools in the Jeddah region. Statistical analysis was performed using JMP software, continuous variables were presented as mean and standard deviation (SD), data for categorical variables were presented as frequencies and percentages and statistical tests ANOVA and Chi Square were also used. The P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 221 male schoolteachers were interviewed online in our study. Most of the research participants were aged between 26 and 50 years and most had a bachelor’s degree as the highest education (81.9%). In addition, half of the participants, that is, 50.2%, had between 20 years and 30 years of experience in teaching. Almost all the teachers (99.5%) heard about first aid with more than half (57%) attending training in first aid. The source of information for almost half of them (48%) came from social media and most of them (85%) agree that there is a need for first aid education.

Conclusion:

Our findings reveal that schoolteachers know about the importance of first aid but lack the training and skills to administer first aid before the ambulance arrives. Therefore, there is an urgent need for proper first aid training for teachers and support staff to prepare them to deal with all the emergencies that most frequently arise at children’s schools.
A randomized prospective study to compare early versus delayed access to antiretroviral therapy over clinical and immunological sequel in HIV-positive adults
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Sharma Ankita , Singh Jatinder , Singh Harpreet
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is the cornerstone for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Our study aimed to compare the impact of early versus delayed access to ART over clinical and immunological outcomes in HIV-positive adults.

Methods:

The prospective, randomized, open-label study was conducted for nine months, and comprised HIV-positive adults who presented to the ART center. Patients who presented early in their course of disease with baseline cluster of differentiation (CD) 4 count ≥350/mm3 were recruited in the early arm and in the late arm, if <350/mm3. The primary objectives were to evaluate disease progression in terms of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stages, functional status, and opportunistic infections. Statistical analysis was done by applying an unpaired t-test, analysis of variance (ANOVA), Chi-square test, and Kaplan–Meier analysis with a P value <0.05 as significant at a 95% confidence interval.

Results:

A total of 134 HIV-positive patients meeting eligibility criteria were randomized. All patients including 60 in the early and 74 in the late arm received tenofovir + lamivudine + efavirenz (TLE). There was a significant difference in CDC stages and immunological status at baseline and post ART initiation (p-value < 0.001). TB-HIV co-infections were significantly (p-value = 0.006) more in late arm.

Conclusion:

The study suggests CD4 counts at ART initiation, as the most important factor in predicting post-treatment recovery in terms of clinical and immunological outcomes.
Effect of Ivermectin prophylaxis in prevention of COVID 19: Meta-analysis and systematic review
Authors: Kujur Manisha , Kiran Kumari Asha , Nag Alka Rashmi , Kujur Anit , Kumar Amit , Vidyasagar
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Ivermectin was popular drug on trial for preventive and therapeutic role in COVID-19. However, there is disagreement concerning the validity of its clinical efficacy. Hence, we conducted a Meta-analysis and Systematic review for effect of Ivermectin Prophylaxis in prevention of COVID-19. The online databases of PubMed (Central), Medline, and Google scholar for randomized controlled trials, non-randomized trial and prospective cohort study were searched up to March 2021. Nine studies were included for analysis, out of which four were Randomized controlled Trial (RCTs), Two Non-RCTs and three cohort studies. Four randomized trial evaluated prophylactic drug Ivermectin, two combination of topical nasal carrageenan and oral Ivermectin two study used in combination of personal protective equipment (PPE) one with Ivermectin and one with Ivermectin/ Iota-Carrageenan (IVER/IOTACRC). In the pooled analysis we observed non-significant less COVID-19 positivity rate in the prophylaxis group as compared with non-prophylaxis group (Relative Risk (RR) = 0.27 and Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.05, 1.41) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 97.1%, P < 0.001) The pooled analysis involving the Non-RCTs studies also did not observe significant reduction in the COVID-19 positivity rate in the prophylaxis group as compared with non-prophylaxis group (RR = 0.01 and CI = 0.00, 7.97) with significant heterogeneity between the studies (P < 0.001).Hence,we conclude that Ivermectin is not the ‘magical silver weapon’ against COVID-19.
Prevalence and correlates of vibration perception threshold based diabetic peripheral neuropathy in Gujarati urban population: A cross sectional study
Authors: Solanki Jayesh D. , Doshi Rishita D. , Virani Neel R. , Sheth Nidhi S. , Dhamecha Jatin K. , Shah Chinmay J.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is common microvascular complication with lack of data from many regions. Vibration perception threshold (VPT) is an objective tool to screen vibration-based neuropathy both quantitatively and qualitatively. We studied prevalence that correlates VPT in diabetic sample population.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was performed in 100 under treatment urban type 2 diabetics. Using bioesthesiometer, we tested VPT from sole of lower limbs of each participant. VPT >25 was considered as DPN. VPT was further correlated to determinants using t test, chi square, and multiple linear regressions. P < 0.05 was taken as statistically significant.

Results:

Mean age was 57, mean duration was 9.42 years, 40% were good glycemic, 28% were symptomatic for neuropathy, half subjects had co-existing hypertension and positive family history. VPT >25 was prevalent in 38% participants and mild, moderate, severe grades of DPN were present in 10%, 20%, 38%, respectively. VPT was associated with all three measures of glycemic control both quantitatively and qualitatively imposing significant odds risk (3.45, 2.63, 3.63 for HbA1C, FPG, 2hPG, respectively). Presence of symptoms, duration, and family history were significant predictors of VPT, whereas age, gender, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and glycemic control were not.

Conclusion:

In chronic type 2 diabetics from a city Gujarat, we report 38% prevalence of DPN, related to symptoms, duration, family history, and all measures of glycemic triad. Unrelated to age and gender, VPT is superior to symptoms to detect DPN and it should be used optimally to insinuate timely preventive measures.
Effectiveness of psychological intervention package on anxiety and wellness level among patients with anxiety disorders
Authors: Mathew Binu
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background of the Study:

Anxiety disorders are among the most common mental disorders in all age groups and they are associated with short-term and long-term impairment in social, academic, familial, and psychological functioning. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of psychological interventions to decrease anxiety thereby improving the wellness level of patients with anxiety disorder.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental research design (a nonequivalent control group design) for evaluating the effectiveness of the psychological intervention on anxiety and wellness level among neurotic patients (n = 100). Psychological interventions consisted of psychoeducation and simple relaxation exercises was administered.

Results:

The study findings revealed that in pre-test, there is no significant difference between experimental and control groups, but in post-test significant difference is observed between experimental group and control group as depicted by the t values at first post-test was t = 2.04 at P = 0.04, df = 98, at third month post-test t = 6.32 at P = 0.001, df = 98 and at sixth month post-test t = 11.03 at P = 0.001, df = 98. The experimental group patients are having 20.3% anxiety reduction and 23.0% improved wellness score, whereas in control group anxiety reduction is only 1.4% and only 2.4% improved wellness score which shows the effectiveness of psychological intervention.

Interpretation and Conclusion:

The results demonstrated the importance of improving patient’s awareness of anxiety and how to manage and access help. Nurses can play a vital role in screening and managing anxiety, and educating people in strategies to prevent episodes of panic. This nurse-led intervention, increased perceived self-efficacy in patients with anxiety disorders, compared with control patients.
Acute aluminium phosphide poisoning: A case report of rare survival with cardiac, metabolic, hepatic, and renal complications
Authors: Sarkar Manuj K. , Ghosh Nelson , Rakesh Upparakadiyala , Prasad Ravija , Raj Ritu
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Poisoning is a very common way to commit suicide. It is more common in low- and middle-income countries. Aluminium phosphide is a very commonly available pesticide in such countries including India. Aluminium phosphide is a very toxic compound. Ingestion of aluminium phosphide can cause severe toxicity to various cells, and mortality is very high. We are presenting a case of rare survival of acute aluminium phosphide poisoning, who presented with signs and symptoms of severe toxicity including metabolic acidosis and shock. During hospitalisation, he developed ventricular tachycardia, acute kidney, and liver failure.
Cases of head injuries in football sport: A case study of Ghaziabad District, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Pandey Kanishka
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

In recent years public awareness of the potential long-term effects of concussions and mild traumatic brain injuries sustained in sport of football has increased. Players purposely use their head to direct the ball during play. There is a growing understanding of the link between blows to the head suffered in football and the potential for increased risk of injuries in later life.[1] This study aim is to reveal the similarities and differences the understanding of the link between blows to the head suffered in football and the potential for increased risk of injuries more specifically dementia in later life.[2
3] Heading an incorrect sized football can result in head injuries. As per FIFA guidelines a different sized football shall be used for different age groups. The schools in the Ghaziabad city were asked to fill in the questionnaires containing certain questions on Sports in general and football in particular. Descriptive and evaluative approach was used, which is generally used in comparative studies. The findings by various Universities established how heading can affect the brain, cognition, and speech of a person. It was found that a few developed nations like USA, England, Ireland have taken note of this issue and have issued guidelines based on the data and studies available. This study establishes that over-inflated footballs are being used in schools and also most of the schools have with them a single-sized football (which is against FIFA guidelines). Moreover, awareness of physical education instructors about different sizes of football and head injuries due to football is lacking. Also, clear guidelines on this issue are needed from the Ministry of Sports in India.
Impact of biomass fuels on the respiratory functions of women in Rural India
Authors: Wankar Reema L. , Deo Deepali S.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

In India, about 90% of the rural population relied upon biomass fuels like animal dung, crop residues and wood. Women generally being involved in cooking are at higher risk of developing respiratory diseases following use of unclean fuels. Objective: The objective of the study is to assess the association of respiratory morbidity with different fuels and the duration of exposure in the women residing in the rural area of Maharashtra.

Methodology:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in field practice area of the Department of Community Medicine of Government Medical College in Maharashtra. Total of 994 eligible subjects were included in the study and data was collected using predesigned structured questionnaire. Abnormal pulmonary function of the study subjects was assessed by the measurement of peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR). Statistical tests such as ANOVA, bivariate and multivariate analysis were used.

Results:

Out of 994 subjects, 725 (72.9%) subjects were using only biomass fuel and 120 (12.1%) were using only LPG for domestic purposes. Lowest mean PEFR was seen in mixed fuel users, that is, 284.09 (SD ± 64.83), followed by biomass fuel users, that is, 287.88 (SD ± 61.47). Respiratory morbidity was seen in 369 (38.1%) subjects with maximum morbidity in biomass users, that is, 262 (p < 0.001). Occurrence of respiratory symptoms like dyspnoea, cough and rhinitis was significantly higher amongst the subjects using biomass fuel, with P < 0.001. Bivariate and multivariate analysis showed that use of biomass fuel, age above 60 years and EI more than 90 had higher odds of having respiratory morbidity.

Conclusion:

The risk of developing respiratory morbidities is high in subjects using biomass fuel. Also, the occurrence of such morbid conditions depends on the higher age and longer duration of exposure to biomass smoke.
Exploring challenges of teenage pregnancy and motherhood from beneficiaries and providers’ perspectives: A qualitative study in a rural area of Purba Bardhaman District, West Bengal
Authors: Dutta Kumarjit , Naskar Somnath , Das Dilip K. , Banerjee Niladri
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Context:

Teenage pregnancy and motherhood are globally important public health concerns. In India, 6.8% women between 15 and 19 years were already mothers or pregnant, whereas in Purba-Bardhaman district of West Bengal it was 21.9% (National-Family-Health-Survey-5). Challenges of teenage pregnancy and motherhood needs to be understood from beneficiaries’ and providers’ perspectives.

Aims:

This study aimed at exploring the various challenges faced by teenagers during their pregnancies and motherhood and understanding the barriers of service delivery to them in a block of West Bengal.

Settings and Design:

A qualitative study with phenomenological approach was conducted between January and June 2021 in Bhatar community development block of Purba-Bardhaman district, West Bengal.

Methods and Material:

In-depth interview (IDI) of 12 purposively selected teenage mothers and two sessions of Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) among 17 Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) were conducted. Data was collected by audio recording the IDI and FGD sessions as well as by taking notes.

Analysis Used:

Inductive thematic analysis was done by using NVIVO software (Release 1.0, QSR International).

Results:

Throughout teenage pregnancy and motherhood, subjects were found to face various types of medical problems, lack of awareness, and non-supportive family environment. Various social constraints and psychosocial stressors emerged as significant challenges. Communication gaps, behavioural barriers, socio-cultural issues, and administrative issues were major themes emerged as barriers of service delivery.

Conclusions:

Lack of awareness and medical problems were important challenges faced by the teenage mothers whereas behavioural barriers were the most important service level barriers perceived by the grass root level service providers.
The humble wrist pain could be “early” tuberculosis and a high index of suspicion may help nip it in the bud: A case report
Authors: Tiwari Punit , Kaur Harmeet , Jaura Sandeep S. , Singh Navneet , Singh Kunwar Pal , Madaan Sonali
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Osteoarticular tuberculosis of the wrist is a very rare subset of skeletal Tuberculosis. Diagnosing the tuberculosis wrist in its early stage poses a major challenge to the clinicians because of its atypical and vague presentations and a close resemblance to many relatively benign pathologies. Clinicians from developed parts of the world having less exposure to the myriad forms of osteoarticular tuberculosis are more likely to miss it. We hereby report one such case who presented with wrist pain of short duration, which after thorough examination and investigations, turned out to be tuberculous. It was successfully managed with anti-tuberculosis drugs alone without any debridement or synovectomy. Familiarity with the clinical profile of this entity, in its early stages, is valuable for primary care physicians, rheumatologists, internal medicine specialists, and orthopaedicians alike, who may confuse it with one of the many more common inflammatory, degenerative, or traumatic causes of wrist pain. Within normal range or near normal erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, and normal looking X-ray does not preclude the diagnosis of tuberculosis wrist. The role of a high index of suspicion and a low threshold for getting higher radiological investigation like MRI in non-responding cases of wrist joint pain cannot be overstated.