bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the Clinical Characteristics of Inguinal Hernia Patients: A Comprehensive Study
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Bharavi Thopucherla , Janugade H B ,   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Reddy Sudireddy Parthasaradhi ,   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
Published: December 2023

The prevalence of inguinal hernias varies globally, likely influenced by factors such as the age distribution of the population, access to surgical care, and the risk of complications from hernias. Worldwide, inguinal hernias contribute significantly to mortality, with more than 60,000 people succumbing to hernia-related complications each year.Patients displaying clinical signs of inguinal hernias were admitted and underwent a comprehensive evaluation, including a detailed medical history and physical examination, as well as standard diagnostic tests such as complete blood count, blood sugar assessment, serum creatinine measurement, chest X-rays, and ECGs.Among the cases included in this study, approximately 50% presented with a noticeable swelling within 2 to 6 months after its initial onset. Roughly 25% sought medical attention between 6 to 12 months after the onset of symptoms, while around 15% delayed seeking medical care for over a year after the swelling first appeared. In terms of hernia types, indirect inguinal hernias accounted for 72.67% of the total cases in the study, with the remaining 27.33% classified as direct inguinal hernias.
Influential Factors Affecting Intestinal Anastomotic Leakage and Their Predictive Significance
Authors:   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Mori Jayraj , Naniwadekar R.G. ,   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India., Nerlekar Akshay ,   Department of General Surgery, Krishna Institute Medical Sciences, KVV, Karad, Maharashtra, India.
Published: December 2023

Background: The occurrence of anastomotic leakage following intestinal surgery stands as a significant contributor to postoperative complications and fatalities. This prospective study was conducted with the aim of assessing different factors associated with the risk of anastomotic leakage. Methods: This study was carried out within the Department of Surgery over the course of one year. It encompassed patients who underwent intestinal anastomosis, whether in emergency situations or as part of routine surgical procedures. The study encompassed a total of 150 patients. Results: Anastomotic leakage was identified in 18.02% of cases, with a higher incidence among males and individuals from a lower socioeconomic background. However, age, gender, and socioeconomic status were not found to be significant risk factors for anastomotic leakage. The incidence of leaks was elevated in patients with chronic illnesses such as malignancy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes mellitus (DM), and those on chronic corticosteroid therapy. Additionally, malnourished patients and those with sepsis, as indicated by their blood investigation reports, had a notably higher leak rate. After conducting logistic regression analysis, several independent predictors for anastomotic leaks were identified, including peritonitis (\(p< 0.05;\) odds ratio \(2.156\)), bowel obstructions (\(p< 0.05\); odds ratio \(2.864\)), receiving more than 2 units of blood transfusion (\(p< 0.05\); odds ratio \(2.334\)), serum albumin levels \(< 3.0\) gm/dL (\(p< 0.001\); odds ratio \(8.873\)), corticosteroid therapy (\(p< 0.001\); odds ratio \(4.877\)), serum creatinine levels \(>1.2\) mg/dL (\(p< 0.001\); odds ratio 11.785), surgery duration exceeding 4 hours (\(p< 0.01\); odds ratio 3.0251), and ASA Grading (III & IV) (\(p< 0.01\); odds ratio 3.707). Conclusion: This study has successfully identified key risk factors that influence the occurrence of anastomotic leakage. The findings from this research are expected to be valuable in efforts to mitigate the incidence of anastomotic leakage following surgery.
Prevalence of false negative parasight f test compared with microscopy technique in malaria diagnosis, as seen in Benin City; Nigeria
Authors: Lofor PVO
Published: December 2023

Objective: This study determined the prevalence of false negative Plasmodium falciparum paraSight F (Histidine rich protein 2) enzymatic test in patients who attended the Outpatient and Emergency departments of the University of Benin Teaching Hospital (UBTH) Benin City, Nigeria.

Patient and Method: This was a prospective study involving 8,824 patients aged 6 months to 85 years with clinical features suggestive of malaria who attended the outpatient and emergency departments of UBTH, from June 2006 to May 2014.

Result: During the study period of eight years, a total of 8,824 patients were seen, with mean age of 47.2 -+ 6.8 years. There were 3,921 males, and 4,903 females giving a male to female ratio of 1:1.2 under five years' constituted 5,383 (61%); 2, 112 (23.9%) were paraSight F false negative, out of this, under five years made up 1,377 (65.2%). Infection with Plasmodium ovale was 269 (3.1%) while Plasmodium malariae was 157 (1.8%).

Conclusion: This study showed that microscopic technique for malaria parasite detection is and remains the gold standard, with other auxiliary test recommended as screening test.
Awareness and practice of contraception among female secondary school students in Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Utuk NM  , Abasiattai AM  , Edu EB
Published: December 2023

Background:Adolescent sexual activity is very prevalent in many countries. Unprotected premature sexual intercourse results in a high incidence of induced abortion, unwanted pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. Objective: The aim of this study was to determine the degree of awareness of contraception and its practice among female secondary school students in Itu, Akwa-Ibom State, Nigeria.Method: A descriptive cross sectional study design was used to recruit 378 consenting female students selected by simple random sampling. Semi-structured, self-administered questionnaires were administered after explanation of the study and assurance of confidentiality. Three hundred and twelve forms were properly filled and analysis was done manually on these using simple proportions and percentages.Results: Majority of the respondents were Ibibio 220 (70.5%) and between 13 and 17 yrs old (89.6%). Two hundred and thirty six (75.6%) were aware of contraception. Twenty nine (16.0%) of those who were sexually active had ever practice any form of contraception. The three common forms of contraception known were the male condom (36.0%), the calendar method (34.0%) and the oral contraceptive pills (25%). The foremost sources of information about contraception were from TV/radio (36.0%), parents (25.0%) and female friends (14.8%). Of those who were sexually active 116(64.8%) had sexual debut at 11-15years of age.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that the level of awareness of contraception was high but the practice of contraception was comparatively low. It also demonstrated that the age at sexual debut was early and the rate of sexual intercourse high. This emphasizes the need for provision of timely and accurate contraceptive information through sex education in secondary schools in our environment.
distribution of abo and rhesus blood groups in University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Uyo, Nigeria
Authors: Ekanem MB
Published: December 2023

Background: The University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH), Uyo is a tertiary health institution which serves the health needs of the people of Akwa Ibom State and beyond.  Blood transfusion service is one of the most important health services provided by UUTH. Organized, efficient and safe blood transfusion practice needs data in blood group serology. This study was carried out because of lack of research based data on human blood group system in UUTH, Uyo and Akwa Ibom State.    Materials and Method: The study is retrospective. Patients' ABO and Rhesus blood group registers in the blood bank of UUTH, Uyo, were reviewed from the year 2000 (when in 2000?)  31st May 2006. The total number reviewed was 10,552.Results: From the 10,552 patients records reviewed for the ABO blood group, blood group O was the the most common with 5,919 (56.10%), followed by blood group A with 2,645 (25.07%), while blood group B was third with 1,728(16.386) and lastly blood group AB with 259 (2.45%). The distribution of Rhesus antigen shows that Rhesus D positive was the highest with 10,203 (96.68%) while Rhesus D Negative was the lowest with 349 (3.30%).

Conclusion: The baseline data from this study which is in keeping with the observed trend in other studies in Nigeria, hopefully, would assist in the planning and running of an organized, efficient and safe blood transfusion service in UUTH, Uyo and in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.
Post Menopausal Bleeding (PMB)
Authors: Umoh VA  , Ibanga G
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTIONPost-menopausal bleeding represents a major problem in gynaecological practice especially in our environment because it is thought by a great number of people to be normal and hence they present late. Post-menopausal bleeding of any form should be regarded as abnormal and not a resumption of menstruation as ignorantly thought. It can be a sign or symptom of many gynaecological conditions.

DEFINITIONPost menopausal bleeding is bleeding from the genital tract occurring 6 months or more after the menopause.
survey of preference of parturients in labour
Authors: Oladokun A  , Adesina OA  , Odukogbe AA  , Morhason-Bello IO  , Kolawole K  , Adewole IF
Published: December 2023

Background: There is a growing concern among parturient women to have labour management modified to accommodate some of their preferences based on their previous experience of information obtained from others.
Objectives: As service care providers, we sought to identify women's attitude to some important aspects of childbirth, namely: the preferred place or environment of delivery; reasons for dislike of modern labour management; as well as attitudes (cognitive, affect and behaviour) to operative delivery, particularly caesarean deliv ery.
Methods: A survey of women's attitude to some important aspects of childbirth was carried out with the use of questionnaires among women attending antenatal clinic at the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Nigeria.
Results:The study showed a great desire by women to have someone they already know in labour (spouses 58.80%; mother/mother figure 88.68%). Forty percent of those who prefer to deliver outside hospital settings would do so due to unfriendly attitudes of doctors and midwives.
Conclusion:There is the need to appropriately train doctors and midwives who attend to women in labour as regards the anxieties and needs of the women in labour.
Catamenial pneumothorax: Still a rare syndrome
Authors: Ekpe EE  , Onwuta CN  , Edaigbini SA  , Okwulehie AV
Published: December 2023

SUMMARYA case of catamenial pneumothorax; a rare type of spontaneous pneumothorax is reported in a 30 year old nursing officer. She presented with recurrent right pneumothorax coinciding with her menstrual period. There was no history of cough, fever, smoking or chest trauma and she was not a known asthmatic.
Investigation confirmed the right pneumothorax, and closed tube thoracostomy drainage and chemical pleurodesis added to the retreatment resulted in cure.
Norplant: an unmet contraceptive need in Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Ibekwe PC
Published: December 2023

Nigeria has one of the highest maternal mortality rates in the world[1] and ranks lowest in terms of contraceptive prevalence rates in Africa[2]. The contraceptive prevalence in Nigeria ranges between 7-14.8%[3-5]. This high maternal mortality rate coupled with the very high total fertility rate (above 6.0 in the area of study)[6] has led to a renewed vigour in effecting solutions through a pervasive family planning programme, not only in Nigeria but in other developing countries. It has been opined that if family planning services were more widely available, up to 42% of maternal deaths could be averted in developing countries[7]. This same survey revealed that approximately 300 million couples in the reproductive age range did not want more children, but were not using any method of contraception.
Aversion towards HIV antibody testing in a tertiary institution in Nigeria
Authors: Yusuf OB  , Oladepo OO
Published: December 2023

CONTEXT: Students in tertiary institutions are at risk of contracting Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) because they fall within the age group that is sexually active. In Nigeria little has been reported on knowledge and attitude towards HIV antibody testing in this population.METHODS: A cross sectional study of 400 students was conducted using a self administered questionnaire. Participants were questioned about their knowledge and attitude regarding HIV antibody testing. Descriptive analyses were performed.RESULTS: Knowledge of HIV testing was highest among male respondents (22.4%) compared with females (15.2%). (p=0.07).  However, knowledge about HIV testing centres was low with as high as 320 (80.0%) respondents not knowing any place. Attitude toward HIV testing was poor.  Almost all the participants, 391 (97.8%) claimed that they had never undergone HIV antibody testing. Lack of adequate information of HIV testing (13.9%) and fear of outcome of result were also responsible for aversion to HIV testing.

CONCLUSION: High knowledge about HIV /AIDS does not suggest willingness to go for HIV antibody testing. There is need for more health education on HIV antibody testing among students of tertiary education in Nigeria.
Uterus didelphys associated with good pregnancy outcomes and an ectopc kidney (Case report)
Authors: Kigbu JH  , Dakum NK
Published: December 2023

The case of a 32year old para 3+0, 3 alive with 3 years history of recurrent severe lower abdominal pain is presented. The pain was worse during her monthly cycles and relieved during pregnancy. Ultrasound showed a left ill defined adnexal mass with no kidney seen on the left. An impression of a symptomatic pelvic kidney was made. Laparotomy done showed a left pelvic kidney and a uterus didelphys. The second uterus was bulky and filled with menstrual fluid. She had a hysterectomy of the aberrant uterus. Uterus didelphys is usually rare and is associated with recurrent pregnancy losses.This patient had normal pregnancy outcome three times.The rarity of this condition and its association with an ectopic kidney prompted us to make this report. The need to look out for congenital anomalies of the genital tract associated with congenital anomalies of the kidneys is also stressed
Hypertension - An overview
Authors: Essien IO
Published: December 2023

INTRODUCTIONAs the population grows older and more obese, the incidence of hypertension continues to increase, not only in the United States but in all developed and developing societies[1]. At the same time, despite the widely recognized dangers of uncontrolled hypertension, the disease remains inadequately treated in the majority of patients[2]. As a consequence, cardiovascular risk remains high among the majority of hypertensive patients, whether treated or not.

Clearly more attention is being directed towards hypertension, but adequate hypertension control remains elusive, in large part because of the asymptomatic nature of the disease for the first 15 to 20 years, even as it progressively damages the cardiovascular system. In view of these built in barriers to effective control of individual patient, population-wide application of preventive measures becomes inherently more attractive. Although the specific mechanism for most hypertension remains unknown, it is highly likely that the process could be slowed if not prevented by the prevention of obesity, moderate reduction to salt intake, higher levels of physical activities, and avoidance of excessive alcohol consumption[3]. Since hypertension will eventually develop in most people during their life time[4], the need for more wide spread adoption of potentially effective and totally safe preventive measures is obvious. In the mean time, better management of those already afflicted with hypertension must be practiced, starting with careful documentation of diagnosis.
Multidisciplinary approach to acute pain management in the adult sickle cell disease patient
Authors: Eyelade OR  , Amanor-Boadu SD
Published: December 2023

Pain is the hallmark of sickle cell disease and is a major concern of patients and their families. The anaesthetists as pain specialists are sometimes involved in the management of intractable acutely painful vaso-occlusive crises in these patients.

We present our experiences in these 3 case reports of known haemoglobin S patients in acute painful sickle cell crises. Two of the patients were males aged 32years and 29years and the third patient was a female aged 25years. The male patients required admission into the intensive care unit for close monitoring while on continuous intravenous opioids analgesia. The female patient was successfully managed on the medical ward with parenteral and oral analgesics.
Pattern of traditional eye medications use as seen in a tertiary hospital-university of Uyo Teaching Hospital experience
Authors: Abraham EG  , Ekanem US
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Traditional eye medications (TEM) are biologically based concoctions instilled into the eye to achieve a desired ocular therapeutic effect but its use, though widely practiced, has no sound scientific evidence in the treatment of eye diseases.AIM: The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence and types of traditional eye medications in use in our environment.

MATERIALS AND METHOD: This was a retrospective study of new patients who presented in the eye clinic between January 2008 and December 2009.

RESULTA total of 47 of the 5,416 patients (0.87%) that were seen within the study period recorded to have used TEM before presentation at the Eye clinic were used for the study. Four (4) records were discarded because of incomplete documentation. Data obtained was analysed with SPSS version 17 for windows package. Mean age was 37.7years. Prevalence of use TEM was0.87%. The most common form of TEM was herbal concoction/roots (32.2%). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of TEM use is low but significant enough for definite steps to be taken by relevant authorities and eye care givers in educating the public. Primary eye care in the state should be upgraded and greater emphasis than it is now should be placed on the eye care during the training of nurses and community health extension workers.
Knowledge and practice of universal precautions among professionals in public and private health facilities in Uyo, southern Nigeria- A comparative study
Authors: Johnson OE  , Asuzu MC  , Adebiyi AO
Published: December 2023

Background: Occupationally acquired blood borne pathogens are becoming major killers globally. Consequently, the practice of Universal Precautions (UP) is key in protecting health workers from these pathogens.Objective: This was to assess the knowledge and practice of UP among health workers in private and public hospitals in Uyo, Nigeria.Method: This was a cross sectional study in which all eligible health workers in the private facilities were enlisted, while health workers from the public facilities were selected through multistage sampling method. Data obtained was analysed using SPSS version 11.Result:  A total of 360 respondents participated in the study, 240 (66.7%) from the public and 120 (33.3%) from the private facilities. Overall, 154 (64.2%) of the health workers in the public, compared to 65 (54.2%) in the private facilities had good knowledge of UP (x2= 8.09, p< 0.05) with a mean score of 14.5 out of 20 in the public and 12.3 in the private facilities. Those in the public facilities had a UP practice score of 11.86 out of a total score of 18 which was significantly higher than 9.54 in the private hospitals (t=6.01; p<0.05). Gloves and leak proof containers were the UP materials most in use in all facilities. Doctors recorded the highest use of UP materials in all facilities.Conclusion: Though the knowledge and practice of UP were generally better in public compared to private facilities, there is need for training on UP in both public and private health facilities to improve the practice of UP.
survey of attitude of lecturers and students of anatomy towards making anatomy career friendly in Nigeria
Authors: Peter AI  , Azu OO  , Ekandem G  , Etuknwa BT  , Bassey RB
Published: December 2023

Background: Anatomy graduates in Nigeria face a lot of career uncertainties with a narrow career prospect and consequent employment challenges in a country where unemployment is high.Method: A total of 258 structured questionnaires were administered to lecturers and students attending the 10th annual conference of Society for Experimental and Clinical Anatomy (SECAN) held in Enugu, South East Nigeria, out of which 248 returned the questionnaires and were included in the study.Results: This showed that 73.4% of the respondents believed that the present anatomy curriculum is not career-friendly, while 88.7% suggested that it should be restructured to make it more career-friendly. A total of 62.9% of the respondents were of the view that students do not spend enough time on practical sessions and 100% of the respondents agreed that students are not sent out for industrial training or clinical experience in related areas. Majority (91.9%) of the respondents were of the view that this will motivate and further improve the quality of anatomy graduates.  Only 23.6% of the students believed that there is career satisfaction amongst anatomy students while 95.5% of the lecturers believed that there is career satisfaction amongst anatomy lecturers. One hundred and four (41.9%) respondents felt that failure rate in their school was high, 96 (38.7%) felt it was moderate and only 48 (19.4%) felt it was low. Majority of the respondents also believed that subspecialties like radiology, forensic anatomy, embryology, teratology, embalmment, and anatomical techniques should be introduced.Conclusion: The present anatomy curriculum needs urgent review and major restructuring to make it career friendly as shown by the attitudes of respondents in this study. There is need to introduce clinical experience and industrial training in relevant areas to motivate students and improve the learning process.
Female genital tract malignancies in a Niger- Delta region of Nigeria
Authors: Umanah IN  , Ugiagbe EE  , Olu-Eddo AN
Published: December 2023

Background: Gynecological malignancies are easily a paramount cause of morbidity and mortality in women in most sub-Saharan countries. We aim to determine the prevalence and highlight the spectrum of female genital malignancies in Benin City, Mid-Western Nigeria, an oil producing region.Methods: Data of all women with histologically diagnosed genital cancers within a five-year period at University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, was reviewed, analysed and presented.Results: A total of 119 females had histologically confirmed genital tract malignancies during the study period.Cervical cancer was the most common malignancy with 98 cases (82.4%), followed by ovarian cancer with 10 cases (8.4%) and endometrial malignancies in 6 (5.0%) patients. There were two cases of ovarian Non-Hodgkins lymphoma. Overall, the peak age at presentation was 40 -50 years, while the peak ages for cervical cancer, ovarian cancer and endometrial malignancies were 40-50years, 30-40years and 40-50years respectively.Conclusion: Female genital malignancies, cervical carcinomas in particular, are an important public health problem in Nigeria. National or Regional cervical cancer screening programmes need to be established and sustained. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccines should be made affordable and available to women from low resource settings in Sub Saharan Africa.
Bilateral transverse facial clefts (congenital macrostomia) - A case report
Authors: Okpokowuruk FS  , Amanari OC
Published: December 2023

We describe a very rare case of bilateral congenital macrostomia in a three month old female infant with an unusual association of brachycephaly and other dysmorphic features as a result of ingestion of an alcohol based herbal preparation, Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine and probably supplemental doses of Vitamin E in the early first trimester of pregnancy. This case report emphasizes the need for maternal education and support of maternal health care.
Co-existing mental and medical conditions among family medicine outpatients in a tertiary hospital in southern Nigeria
Authors: Umoh KA  , Idung AU
Published: December 2023

Background: A considerable number of patients seen in the Primary Care Clinics have co-morbid mental disorders with medical conditions that are largely not recognized by the primary care physician. This inability to recognize these mental disorders lead to non diagnosis and non treatment with eventual amplification of physical symptoms, low productivity at work and functional disability at home.Aims: To screen the patients attending the general outpatient clinic for anxiety and depression co-occurring with medical conditions.Methods: Two hundred and forty five patients aged 20 years and above attending the General Outpatient Clinic of the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital were randomly assessed for anxiety and depression using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). The level of caseness for anxiety and depression were determined using a HADS score of 8 and above. Their medical conditions were diagnosed and associations were determined with mental disorders (anxiety and depression).Results: A total of 36.7% of patients scored above cut off point of 8 on the anxiety subscale while 24.5% of the subjects scored above cut off point of 8 on the depression subscale. 24.1%, (n=59) scored 8-10 on the anxiety subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be mild anxiety, 11.0%, (n=27) scored 11-14 on the anxiety subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be moderate anxiety and 1.6%, (n=4) scored 15-21 on the anxiety subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be severe anxiety. Similarly, 15.9%, (n=39) scored 8-10 on the depression subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be mild depression, 7.8%, (n=19) scored 11-14 on the depression subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be moderate depression and 0.8%, (n=2) scored 15-21 on the depression subscale of HADS which is interpreted to be severe depression.  Hypertension was present in 22.04%, (n=54) respondents with anxiety p = 0.016 and depression p=0.025. HIV/AIDS was present in 4.08%, (n=10) respondents with depression p = 0.006.Conclusion: The result of the study shows that patients attending general outpatients' clinic suffer from mental disorders like anxiety and depression which may co- exist with hypertension and HIV/AIDS. Therefore, a careful assessment of patients attending these clinics will detect these disorders and treatment will improve the physical condition of the patients.
AIDs-related kaposi's sarcoma: Manifestations and management strategies with haart and adjuvant therapies
Authors: Charles AO  , Umanah IN
Published: December 2023

AIDS-related Kaposi sarcoma varies widely from a few mucocutaneous lesions to more florid ones with life threatening visceral involvement. Highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) has radically improved the outcome of this disease, and is pivotal to any treatment of the tumour. Late disease will require adjuvant chemotherapy for some duration to induce remission. Less expensive chemotherapy regimens may be needed in sub Saharan Africa heavily burdened with the disease and poverty. Various biologic agents are undergoing clinical trials at different stages and may prove useful in controlling the disease when combined with HAART and chemotherapy.
Awake thoracic epidural anaesthesia for laparotomy: A safer alternative to general anaesthesia in asthmatic patients
Authors: Etta OE  , Edubio MN
Published: December 2023

Asthma is a common obstructive lung disease with a hallmark of airway inflammation and hyper-reactivity in response to a variety of stimuli. The morbidity and mortality in asthma is directly related to reversible airway obstruction and bronchospasm in response to specific triggers. The goal of the anaesthetist is to avoid eliciting triggering stimuli that can incite bronchospasm. Neuromuscular blocking agents and invasive airway procedures like endotracheal intubation are known triggering factors for bronchospasm in asthmatics. It is therefore prudent to use regional, as oppose to general, anaesthesia whenever possible. We describe the use of an awake thoracic epidural anaesthesia for laparotomy in an asthmatic patient. We recommend that, where possible, epidural anaesthesia should be preferred to general anaesthesia in asthmatic patients.
Flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope and the difficult airway: A case report
Authors: Edubio MN  , Mohammed RI
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND: Management of the difficult airway will always confront the anaesthetist. This is one area of the practice that the anaesthetist is required to develop divers skills suited for each clinical situation. The ability to use the flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope (FOB) presents the anaesthetist with an addition tool to conduct endotracheal intubation when faced with a difficult airway.

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate the effectiveness of the flexible fibreoptic bronchoscope in the management of the difficult airway.

CASE REPORT: A 21-year old male farmer who presented with a 2-year history of a slowly increasing left-sided jaw swelling. The swelling was painless with protrusion into the oral cavity. There was limited mouth opening but no history of trauma. Examination revealed a clinically ill-looking patient who was not in respiratory distress. Interincisor distance was less than 3cm with associated dental anarchy and a large tumour mass in the oral cavity. Cardiorespiratory findings were within normal limits. Radiology revealed translucency of the mandible with multiloculated “soap bubble” appearance. Histology showed typical characteristics of ameloblastoma of the plexiform type.The flexible FOB was checked before the patient was bought into the theatre. An intravenous access was established and a multi-parameter monitor was attached to the patient. Baseline vital signs were within normal limits. Premedication was with intravenous atropine, diazepam and fentanyl.Using a combination of inhalational and airway anaesthesia, with patient breathing spontaneously, flexible FOB was used to effect right nasotracheal intubation with a size 7.0mm cuffed endotracheal tube. The cuff was inflated and the tube secured with adhesive tape. Anaesthesia was augmented with sodium thiopentone and pancuronium bromide was given to achieve muscle relaxation. Left-hemimandibulectomy was done with disarticulation of the left temporomandibular joint. The patient was extubated fully awake after suctioning and reversal of residual relaxation. Postoperative analgesia was with intramuscular pentazocine and diclofenac. The patient was discharged home after ten days.

CONCLUSION: The use of the flexible FOB can be very effective in the management of the difficult airway and the modern anaesthetist must strive to acquire the necessary skill needed to use it.
Histopathological changes due to combined administration of douvir-ntm and folic acid on the kidney of wistar rats
Authors: Peter AI  , Okon KA
Published: December 2023

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a disease of the human immune system caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). Drugs like lamivudine, zidovudine, nevirapine are used in combination as highly active antiretroviral therapy to reduce viral load to undetectable level and improve immunity and prolong survival of patients. However, these antiretroviral drugs are associated with numerous side effects that may be severe and affect patients. Folic acid belongs to the family of medications called vitamins, it is required for healthy skin, hair, liver, nervous system function. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of Douvir–NTm on the histology of the kidney of adult wistar rats. and the effect of of its combined administration with folic acid. forty albino Wistar rats weighing between 120g – 260g body weights were randomly divided into four groups (10 rats/group). Group A served as control group and received 1ml of distilled water, while rats in group B received 9.29mg/kg bodyweight of Douvir–NTM , Rats in group C received a combination of 9.29mg/kg of Douvir–NTm.  and 0.07mg/kg of folic acid, rats in group D received 0.07mg/kg of folic acid. At the end of the experimental period, that lasted for 30 days, animals from each group were sacrificed and the kidneys were carefully removed and weighed. Administration of 9.29mg/kg body weight of Dourvir–NTm   to the rats in group B showed distorted glomerulus, narrowed Bowman's space and dilated renal tubules. Combined administration of 9.29mg/kg body weight of Douvir–NTm and 0.07mg/kg body weight of folic acid to animals in group C showed mild changes in Bowman's space, and renal tubule whereas the administration of 0.07mg/kg body weight of folic acid alone to rats in group D had no effects on the morphology of the kidney when compared with the control. The findings suggest that Douvir–NTm can significantly distort the cytoarchitecture of the kidney which could be ameliorated by combined administration with folic acid.
Dental fluorosis, unguided flouride dosing and oral health advocacy practitioners perception of the emerging paradigm
Authors: Madukwe IU
Published: December 2023

BackgroundOral health day is an international day to highlight the benefits of a healthy mouth and to promote worldwide awareness of issues around oral health.  In Nigeria oral health policy was developed by the Federal Ministry of Health, approved by the National Council on Health and launched in November 2012.

ObjectivesFluoride is a topical issue world over. Knowledge of sources of fluoride is a pre-condition to adjusting of the existing natural occurring fluoride level in drinking water.Materials and methods 259 questionnaires were administered to oral health practitioners in University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Consultants through Senior Registrars to Dental students.  182 (70.27%) were returned.  Aggregate percentage response was 42.88%.

Conclusion:We therefore conclude that a deliberate policy on fluoride dosing through regulation of quality of fluoride sources from Dental products to sea food is very necessary and timely.
Lingual Syncretism: Language Features on the Relationship between Tradition and Religion in “Motolobalango” Coronation
Authors: Haris Danial  , Muhammad Rayyan Kufri
Published: December 2023

In various regions, we often find marriage processions that are guided by customary and Islamic laws that apply as ancestral heritage. Unfortunately, the pattern of syncretism between custom and Islam in marriage is rarely known by society in general. The aim of this research is to describe lingual syncretism in the Motolobalango tradition in Gorontalo. This research is oriented towards qualitative descriptive methods. The results of the research show that the syncretism of Motolobalango marriage customs is indicated in two forms, namely verbal language which appears in five representations of tuja'I speech acts in the form of: greeting, asking for permission, inviting, praising, requesting, and making non-verbal promises to cultural attributes in the form of aato dalalo, tonggu permata, pata potolongito, and yila-yilapito.
A temática interdisciplinar entre química, física e biologia nos livros didáticos do ensino médio
Authors: Fernandes da Silva Lívia , Amorim da Silva Lidiane , Rodrigues Ana Paula
Published: December 2023

A pesquisa visa uma análise dos principais temas entre as três áreas de conhecimento, fazendo com que o ensino/aprendizagem proporcione uma ampla relação interdisciplinar com a realidade dos discentes. A divisão contextual de cada componente curricular integra diferentes assuntos, estabelecendo os seguintes objetivos: analisar os PCN com os temas estruturados, investigar a situação atual da interdisciplinaridade entre o ensino de Química é Física, Química é Biologia, Física é Biologia, nos livros didáticos da 1ª, 2ª e 3ª série do ensino médio. Os temas estruturados é uma proposta que pode ser trabalhado de acordo com a necessidade dos alunos, selecionando de forma significativa os conteúdos, atribuindo condições de aprendizagem com o desenvolvimento de competências.
A Brief Review on Covid-19 Vaccines
Authors: Narendranath A , Vamsi Krishna VN , Akhila J
Published: December 2023

Vaccines are biological products that can help body to acquire immunity against pathogen without occurrence of infection. During clinical trials, vaccines are tested in volunteers to ensure safety and effectiveness. As a part of phase 4 clinical stage, adverse effects are monitored regularly by the licensing authority. The benefit of vaccination is to reduce the risk of death and severe disease. Evidence suggests that it is very common to get side effects after covid-19 vaccination. These side effects usually disappear after few days of vaccination. The main aim of this review is to provide an overview of covid-19 vaccines in the present scenario.
A Study on the Evaluation and Impact of Self Medication Practice Among the Pharmacy Students
Authors: Venkata Bala Chennakeswari V , Satya Priya B , Hema Sri B , Mohiddin Shaik Khwaja , Pavan Kumar Y , Rajeswara Rao P
Published: December 2023

Aim: To evaluate the impact of self medication practice among the pharmacy students of Andhra Pradesh in this study.

Materials and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted among the pharmacy students by using the questionnaire which was circulated by means of Google forms to various pharmacy colleges located in Andhra Pradesh, India. Students from the pharmacy colleges with both the genders of all age groups were included and students other than pharmacy stream were excluded from the study.

Results: In this study, a total of 473 pharmacy students were involved in order to evaluate the impact of self-medication practice among them. Most of the study participants used self-medication for headache (52%) followed by fever (38.3%) and cough (25.6%). Majority of the study participants used the drug paracetamol (78%) followed by cetirizine (38.9%) and multivitamins (25.8%) as self-medication. In this study, almost half of the study participants (48.4%) have searched the internet for selecting the drug for self-medication as most of the study participants were from urban areas. Most of the study participants always used to check the prescribing the information before self-medicating themselves (75.1%).

Conclusion: Searching the treatment strategies for specific medical conditions over the internet was becoming a common phenomenon in the present generation. Responsible utilization of the self medication definitely results in positive outcomes. Hence, students should have the awareness in the aspects of rational drug usage while practicing the self medication.
Pattern of Drug Utilization among the Out-Patients of Dermatology Department at a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Enjety Sraveena , Satyavathi KVV , Balla Udaya Sri , Nallamilli Anil Kumar Reddy
Published: December 2023

Aim: To  evaluate  the epidemiology  of  skin  diseases  and  drug  utilization  pattern  in  dermatology  out-patient  department  of  a tertiary  care   hospital.

Materials and Methods: This study was designed to be a prospective observational study and patients of all age groups and both the genders were included. Pregnant and lactating women, patients suffering from chronic and genetic conditions, and in-patients were excluded from the study. Specially designed patient data collection form which contains patient demographics, diagnosis and treatment chart was used to obtain all the required information for the study.

Results: In this study, a total of 300 study participants were observed with various dermatological conditions. Among them, 64 (21.3%) were found to be males and 236 (78.7%) were found to be females. Among the 300 study participants, most of the patients were observed in the age group 21-30 years (23.7%) followed by the age group 31-40 years (19.7%). In this study, most of the patients were diagnosed with fungal infections (31%) followed by eczematous diseases (67%) and parasitic infections (15.3%). Antihistamines (30.9%) were observed to be the most commonly prescribed drug classes followed by antifungals (24.3%). Among the antihistamines, cetrizine (75%) was the most commonly prescribed drug and in case of anti fungals, oral fluconozole (43%) and clotrimazole ointment (35%) were the most commonly prescribed drugs.

Conclusion: In this study, most of the patients were diagnosed with fungal infections followed by eczematous diseases and parasitic infections. Antihistamines were observed to be the most commonly prescribed drug classes followed by antifungals. Among the antihistamines, cetrizine was the most commonly prescribed drug and in case of anti fungals, oral fluconozole and clotrimazole ointment were the most commonly prescribed drugs. Patients must be educated properly in the aspect of dermatological complications and also regarding the pharmacological management for better prognosis by the health care professionals.
Nipah Virus Infection
Authors: Puppala Mounika , Yelavarthi Keerthi
Published: December 2023

Nipah virus is a type of RNA virus and this virus may usually circulate among specific types of fruit bats. In the year 1998, this disease was first identified by a team of scientists at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya in Malaysia and the disease was named after a village called Sungai Nipah in Malaysia. The out breaks of Nipah virus infection have been reported in Malaysia, India, Singapore, Bangladesh and Philippines. Typically, the spread requires direct contact with an infected source. Through the oro-nasal route, the virus enters its host and causes the infection. From the terminal stages of the disease, human tissues have only been studied and the site of the initial replication was found to be unknown. After the exposure of the virus, it may take 5-14 days for the onset of the symptoms. The symptoms of Nipah virus infection can be fever, headache, cough, shortness of breath and confusion. This review article was mainly focused in describing various aspects of Nipah virus infection. Human to human nosocomial infections can be prevented by strictly following the standard infection control practices. Implementation of infection control practices like isolation of patients, good hand hygiene practices and the use of personal protective equipments may help us in the prevention of person to person transmission. Health care workers exposed to the suspected Nipah virus patients must inform their higher officials and should undergo testing for the Nipah virus. Discourage the funeral practices that require the direct contact with the remains.
Rett Syndrome: A Review
Authors: Padala Sudeepthi
Published: December 2023

Rett syndrome (RS) is a progressive neuro developmental disorder with a significant severity of intellectual disability that occurs mainly in females. The syndrome was named after an Austrian physician called Andreas Rett who first described it in the medical literature in the year 1960. This disorder involves a regression of previously acquired skills followed by a period of typical development. Rett syndrome unveils multitude of symptoms such as deceleration in head growth, gait abnormalities, loss of purposeful hand movements often replaced with repetitive stereotypical movement, loss of speech and breathing abnormalities. It is caused by the mutations (de novo mutations) in methyl-CpG-binding protein 2 (MECP2) and Cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5(CDKL5) genes. In this article, various aspects of Rett Syndrome along with the gene modifying therapy were discussed. The road to cure Rett syndrome is paved with novel findings but also escalating many challenges.  In the current scenario a special focus is laid in addressing the specific symptoms of Rett syndrome neglecting the underlying cause, which might impact the disease progression. Therefore a multidisciplinary team approach to treat the prevailing symptoms will maximise the patient’s abilities and provides an effective cure. This will involve major efforts on the part of translational researchers and collaboration with both pharmaceutical enterprises and regulatory agencies overseeing the critical safety concerns.
Evaluation of the Generalized Anxiety Disorder among the Pharmacy Students during Examinations
Authors: Shyni Roselin G , Meher Satyavani N , Vasanth Kumar S , Shakeena Glory P , Bhagya Sri D , Rajeswara Rao P
Published: December 2023

Aim: The main aim of this study is to evaluate the generalized anxiety disorder among the pharmacy students during examinations in the Indian scenario. Materials & Methods: This was a prospective study conducted among the pharmacy students by using the GAD-7 questionnaire which was circulated by means of Google form to various Pharmacy colleges located in Andhra Pradesh, India. Students from pharmacy colleges with both the gender of all age groups were included. Students other than the pharmacy stream were excluded from the study. Results: A total of 240 study participants were involved in the study and among them 71 (29.6%) were found to be males and 169 (70.4%) were found to be females. Among 240 study participants, 30 (12.5%) were observed with minimal anxiety, 105 (43.8%) were observed with mild anxiety, 78 (32.5%) were observed with moderate anxiety and the remaining 27 (11.2%) were observed with severe anxiety. Conclusion: Most of the study participants were observed with mild anxiety symptoms followed by moderate anxiety symptoms during the examinations. Usually, whenever the students were going to appear for their examinations, the minimal anxiety is most commonly seen in them. But, the abnormal scores among some of the students may negatively impact their academic performance of the students. Parents and as well as the teaching faculty should provide some moral support for the students and in case of severe anxiety conditions, students must go for counseling sessions which may benefit them in a positive way in dealing with the academics.
A Review on Adverse Drug Reactions
Authors: Vamsi Krishna VN
Published: December 2023

Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs) became as one of the global problems that affect both children and adults with varying intensities. A significant number of ADRs may occur in elderly due to the contribution of drug-drug interactions, who are under polypharmacy. Various definitions are available all over the world in case of ADRs. But the definition by the World health organization was well adopted and widely accepted by many countries across the world. To promote the identification and reporting of ADRs and also to ensure and enhance the patient safety certain measures has to be taken by all health care professionals. The contribution of health care professionals, in regard to ADRs database is very much important and has encouraged the ongoing certainty of benefit risk ratio of drugs and also contributed to detect the unusual ADRs which are undetected during the basic evaluation of the drug. Pharmacists have a vital role in the maintenance of drug safety by contributing towards the prevention, detection, documentation and reporting of ADRs. The hospital or clinical pharmacist should actively participate in the area of pharmacovigilence in order to strengthen the National pharmacovigilance program.