bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of maternal occupation on adverse pregnancy outcomes in a Nigerian tertiary health facility
Authors: Nwoga Hope O. , Ajuba Miriam O. , Igweagu Chukwuma P.
Published: June 2021

Background: There is accumulating evidence that the type of work and environmental exposures in the work environment during pregnancy may have adverse effects on fetal development and pregnancy outcome. The objective was to determine the influence of maternal occupation on adverse pregnancy outcomes.Methods: The study was a prospective hospital based study conducted at the obstetrics and gynecology department of a tertiary health facility in Nigeria. All the data were retrieved from the ante natal and delivery card of all the women that delivered at the unit within the time of data collection. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 25 and variables were presented as frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviation. Bivariate analysis was done using chi-square test. The level of significance was set at p value ≤ 0.05.Results: Maternal occupation did not significantly affect the gestational age at delivery (X2=10.143, p=0.428) and birth weight (X2=16.807, p=0.079) however, it significantly affected the still birth (X2=28.134, p=0.002). Agricultural, forestry and fishery workers and plant and machine operators were about 8 times and 17 times more likely to have still birth than the unemployed respectively.Conclusions: There were substantial differences in the risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes between the different occupational groups.
Endocrowns: a retrospective study among Riyadh Elm university dental clinics
Authors: Alotaiby Fatima , Aldulaijan Jumana , Alotaibi Mai , Aldossari Huda , Alabdulaziz Noura , Alowaid Reema , Alnasser Noura , Saeed Shahad
Published: June 2021

Background: Endocrowns are created from mono-block porcelain containing the invaded coronal portion of the apical projection that fills the space of the pulp chamber, and probably the entrances of the root canal. This makes restoring endodontically extensive damaged teeth challenging and difficult.Methods: This is a retrospective chart review study essentially compiling and analyzing records from all patients consecutively treated with endocrowns which was performed by residents and students, carried out in Riyadh Elm university in Riyadh.Results: Out of 41 endo-crown cases 65.9% were successful according to follow up time and radiographic examination, and 34.1% is still under investigation. Furthermore, 51.2% were male patients while 70.7% were in the age group of 22 to 49 years. About 63.4% had treatment for the lower teeth and all the cases teeth were posterior. The period of longevity was 6 to 24 months in 51.2% of subjects.Conclusions: Additional scientific studies and clinical examination on a larger sample size are needed to assess the long-term efficacy of endocrown. However, it appears to be a conservative and an aesthetic treatment with long-term survival benefits.
Awareness of human papilloma virus infection and vaccination among the medical students of Davangere
Authors: G. Netra , G. Geethalakshmi R.
Published: June 2021

Background: Cervical cancer is fifth most common cancer worldwide and second most common cancer in women in India, with an incidence of 1,22,844 cases and accounts for over 67,477 deaths annually (GLOBOCON 2012). Although vaccines are available to prevent the cervical cancer there is lack of awareness regarding the same. Hence the present study has been proposed. The objective was to study the awareness of human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccination among the medical students.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2017 to December 2017 among the medical students. All those who gave consent were included and a predesigned, pretested proforma consisting of variables about demographic characteristics, HPV, vaccination and the other necessary information required for the study was collected.Results: 72.4% of the participants were aware of the HPV infection, 70.5% about the HPV vaccination and 69.5% of the participants thought that only females should be vaccinated. 52.3% of the participants expressed interest for vaccination. Interns had 100% awareness about the infection and vaccination. Students who were not interested in vaccination, 18.9% of them said they are not sexually active, 8.5% thought there was no need of vaccine, 6.1% felt vaccine is too expensive and 1.3% worried about the safety of the vaccine. Sources of information was mainly through lectures/textbooks (64.8%) followed by doctors/healthcare facility (20.9%).Conclusions: Study revealed appreciable level of awareness among the participants. With this study, the participants are encouraged to get vaccinated as the age group of participants is appropriate for the vaccination.
Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG seroprevalence among non-vaccinated healthcare workers: a study from rural North India
Authors: Mane Pratibha , Sangwan Jyoti , Lohan Kirti
Published: June 2021

Background: Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease reported in China initially which spread around the world in no time affecting millions of people. It is caused by a new coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2 or 2019 n-CoV). The healthcare workers (HCW) are at increased risk of acquiring the disease as well as antibody response.Methods: 457 health care workers (HCW) were recruited to give blood samples for anti-SARS CoV-2 IgG testing between September to October 2020.Results: Of the 457 participants, IgG antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 were detected in 116 health care workers (25.4%). The anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibodies were detected maximally in HCWs involved in laboratory work. Around 4 % of health care workers were RT-PCR positive form whom IgG were detected in 15 individuals (71.4%) only.Conclusions: The study concludes a higher prevalence among health care workers involved with patient’s samples and laboratory.
COVID-19 vaccine acceptances and barriers to vaccination in the context of Kerala: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Sunil Sreemol , R. Anish K. , J. Sreekutty M.
Published: June 2021

Background: The long-term control of the pandemic COVID-19 pandemic hinges on the uptake of vaccine and high immunization uptake is critical but barriers to immunization exists. Vaccine hesitancy is one of the top 10 threats to global health. Hesitancy will be a challenge to curbing this pandemic. Apt vaccination strategies are very essential to increase vaccine acceptance.Methods: A cross‐sectional study among the population in Kerala where data was collected through an online questionnaire using Google forms and was distributed using social media platforms. Total of 213 data was collected. Study focused on aspects of vaccine communication, preference of COVID-19 vaccine, perceived benefits, and barriers of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and cues of vaccine.Results: 80.2% of the respondents were willing to get vaccinated. 78.9% of the respondents have taken previous vaccinations by the government. 70 of them trust government health care departments and media (82.2%) is the least trusted platform regarding vaccination. 56.3% are not getting enough information on COVID vaccine safety, while 81.2% of the respondents did not receive negative information. A majority of them (64.3%) relied on official government websites for information. Majority agrees to the perceived benefits of COVID-19. 80.3% are willing to take free vaccination. 46.9 % are willing to pay for COVID vaccine.Conclusions: The scenario in Kerala is positive towards the vaccination drive and majority of them are willing to get vaccinated. But strategies must be made effective in terms of elevating the barriers to vaccination.
Status of anemia among the tribal children in West Bengal
Authors: Ray Rudra , Bhattacharyya Maitreyee
Published: June 2021

Background: Anemia is a major public health problem worldwide. School children are more vulnerable to this disease due to their rapid growth need of high iron. Therefore, it is a critical health concern because it affects growth and physical performance. This study was undertaken to investigate the prevalence of anemia among different areas and sub-caste of tribal school children in West Bengal.Methods: Complete hemogram was performed on Sysmex (KX-21) automated cell counter. Haemoglobin analysis was done by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC, from Bio Rad Variant II). Ferritin estimation was done by ELISA based method. A software (Thaltribe) was prepared to record and maintain the data of the screened population.Results: Total number of school students from all the districts of West Bengal included in this study was 45887. Among the total population 49.88% were found to carry low Hb and 28.45% had low ferritin. Among the population who had normal ferritin (N=32832), there were 46.59% (N=15298) carrying low Hb. Among total 15298 cases who had low Hb with normal ferritin level, 10741 (70.21%) remained undiagnosed who were not detected to be thalassaemia carrier or thalassaemia disease (HPLC normal) and also did not carry alpha globin gene mutation.Conclusions: On the contrary to the common belief that iron is the main source of anemia, it was observed in this study that around 25% of anemic children did not have iron deficiency. This group requires further evaluation to investigate the reason of anemia.
Investigation of a child malaria death during COVID-19 pandemic in a hamlet of Angul district, Odisha (India)
Authors: Das Nirupama
Published: June 2021

Background: This study aimed to find out the cause of child death due to Plasmodium falciparum and associate co-morbidities in a hamlet of Garud village of central district of Odisha (India), Angul during the COVID-19 pandemic and to recommend necessary actions to prevent such unwanted death.Methods: A retrospective investigation was conducted bases on the death audit report of a female child belonging to Garud village of Angul district. Death was reported at the district headquarters hospital, Angul. Detailed history from the starting of first symptom till death with laboratory investigations were reviewed using the malaria death audit format of NVBDCP, Odisha. Along with in-depth interview with family members, mass screening using bivalent rapid test and slide test, treatment and malaria preventive measures were undertaken in the community.Results: During the COVID-19 pandemic, one child death was recorded due to falciparum malaria infection. Along with the child, all two family members were infected with falciparum. The family belongs to small hamlet with eight households and 39 population. All 39 populations were screened for malaria and out of these, 11 number people were found positive of  falciparum.Conclusions: COVID-19 pandemic resulted the major societal disruption due to lockdown and shutdowns affecting routine health care which may be attributed to the death of a child even in a in a well-resource setting district of Odisha. In such pandemic situation much more attention need to be given on the traditional infectious diseases which may cause unnoticed death.
Dyslipidaemia among diabetes and hypertensive patients in a remote rural area of South India, in comparison with ICMR-InDiab study
Authors: Dorthy Vedanayagame , Malar Ilango , Anisha F. N. U. , Alexander Ann Sara , Newtonraj Ariarathinam , Girija Ganesan
Published: June 2021

Background: The aim of the study was to find out the prevalence and determinants of dyslipidaemia among DM and HT group in a remote rural area of India and comparing with ICMR-InDiab study.  Methods: We screened high risk individuals (hypertension and diabetes patients) for dyslipidemia covering ten villages surrounding a Rural Health Training Centre (RHTC) located in South India, in August-September 2017. Participants were line listed from the electronic data base maintained in RHTC and were screened at their door step by visiting their house.Results: Mean values of all lipids among the high-risk population were increased significantly (p<0.01). Prevalence of hypercholesterolemia was three times more, hypertriglyceridemia was 1.3 times higher, high LDL cholesterol was 3.3 times higher, high cholesterol HDL ratio was 1.5 times higher and isolated hypercholesterolemia was 3.6 times higher among the high-risk population. On the other hand, isolated hypertriglyceridemia has 30% less likely and isolated low HDL was 40% less likely among high risk populations in comparison to ICMR-InDiab study. Female gender [low HDL- aOR 2.1(1.1-4.2)], [high LDL- aOR 2.2(1.3-3.7)] and hypothyroidism [hypercholesterolemia- aOR 10.1(1.1-89)] were directly associated and; underweight [hypercholesterolemia- adjusted Odds ratio (aOR)- 0.4(0.2-0.9)], [hypertriglyceridemia 0.4(0.1-1.0)], and anaemia [hypertriglyceridemia aOR- 0.5(0.3-0.8)] were inversely associated with dyslipidemia.Conclusions: Dyslipedaemia was higher among the DM and HT participants in a remote rural area of South India.
Knowledge and practices among parents of asthmatic children: a quasi-experimental study conducted at tertiary care center of Western India
Authors: . Dhirja , Sharma Mukesh C. , Goyal Jagdish P. , M. Remiya
Published: June 2021

Background: Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory disease of childhood and emerging as a global health issue. It is primary cause of school absences and the third leading cause of hospitalization in children younger than the age of 15 years. Parents as the primary caregiver plays an important in management of the disease. The main objective of this study was to assess the knowledge and practices of parents of asthmatic children and improve it with the help of an informational booklet at AIIMS, Jodhpur.Methods: It was a quasi-experimental, pre-test post-test control group design on 60 parents of children suffering from asthma (30 in control group and 30 in experimental group) coming to paediatric OPD. Non probability purposive sampling was used to select the subjects. Self-structured tools like socio-demographic information, knowledge questionnaire and practices extended questionnaire were used to collect the required data. Reliability and validity of tools were analysed. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 16.Results: The study findings reveal that most of the subjects had unsatisfactory level of knowledge and practices regarding asthma which significantly improvement in knowledge (t=11.449, p<0.05) and practices (t=-8.079, p<0.05) after application of informational booklet. Knowledge level of subjects were found to have significant association with education, occupation and monthly income of family.Conclusions: Prevention is better than cure. Parents are primary caregiver of children and spend most of the time with them. Their sufficient knowledge regarding asthma and right practices can help in reducing sudden asthma attacks and hospital visit in these children. Informational booklet have a positive impact on improving the knowledge and practices among parents.
Gadget usage pattern and sleep quality among medical undergraduates during COVID-19 lockdown: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Vaidya Manasi S. , Deshpande Sonal R.
Published: June 2021

Background: The afoot COVID-19 pandemic has covered approximately every edge of the world. Schools and colleges are temporarily shut leading to children being indoors. Thus, gadgets have become an inseparable part of life and govern the daily routine of an individual. The aim of the study was to assess the pattern of gadget usage and sleep quality among medical undergraduates during COVID-19 lockdown.Methods: Present cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 149 medical undergraduates of Shri Vasantrao Naik Govt. Medical College, Yavatmal. Their gadget usage pattern and sleep quality before and during lockdown were measured using a predesigned and pretested questionnaire based on Smartphone addiction scale-short version (SAS-SV) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), administered via the Google forms platform.Results: 139 (93.28%) responses were completely and correctly filled. Smartphone addiction was seen in 71 (51.08%) study subjects. The mean sleep duration before and during lockdown had no significant changes. There was linear positive correlation between SAS-SV score and PSQI score, but the correlation was not statistically significant.Conclusions: The proportion of smartphone addiction amongst medical undergraduates is significantly high and the mean sleep duration is reduced during lockdown.
Attitude towards online classes among school and college going students during lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Kumar Saurav , Prakash Shiv , Srivastava Mona
Published: June 2021

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the attitude of the school and college-going students towards online classes. Methods: An online cross-sectional study was conducted on 228 school and college-going students fulfilling inclusion and exclusion criteria selected through purposive sampling methods. A semi-structured online questionnaire consisting of a socio-demographic questionnaire and Attitude towards online classes (ATOC) questionnaire was prepared by the researcher using Google form. The link of the questionnaire was sent to all the selected respondents through WhatsApp messages and emails. The data was analyzed using the IBM SPSS version 20 software. The reliability of the attitude questionnaire was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha test. The association between categorical variables was assessed using Chi-square tests. The comparison between variables was assessed using the students independent t-test.Results: More than half of the respondents (51.32%) were found with a positive attitude towards online classes. There was a significant association found between attitude towards online classes and socio-demographic variables such as age (p<0.05), academic level (p<0.05), and family income (p<0.01). The respondents who attended online classes (p<0.05), have technical knowledge (p<0.01), and got supported by their parents in the study (p<0.05) were found significantly high positive attitudes towards online classes. There was a significant difference found in the attitude of the respondents who faced psychological disturbances such as a decline in attention-concentration (p<0.05), irritation-anger (p<0.01), and tension (p<0.05) due to online classes.Conclusions: Although, online classes are more beneficial for the students and teachers in their academic activities during the lockdown period due to the COVID-19 pandemic but it can’t take place of traditional face-to-face classes.
Clinico-epidemiological features and outcome of dengue cases admitted in a tertiary care centre in Northern Kerala
Authors: Thomas Renu , Anees Shamseeda , Kumaran Jayasree Anandbhavan
Published: June 2021

Background: Dengue is now emerging as a public health problem of global concern. Though dengue is endemic in Kerala, occasional outbreaks of dengue has been reported from the state. It is therefore essential to study the epidemiological factors playing a role in the transmission of the disease, which is crucial to limit the surge in dengue cases. By describing the clinical profile and outcome, better patient management can be practiced thereby reducing complications and mortality.Methods: A record based descriptive study done in a tertiary care centre in North Kerala. A total of 327 clinically diagnosed dengue cases admitted in the tertiary care centre during June and July months were included in this study.  Results: Out of the total 327 dengue cases included in the study, 101 (31%) had dengue fever, 220 (67%) had DHF and 6 (2%) had DSS. Majority 41.9% were in the age group 40-59 years of age. Majority 88.1% were from rural area. Rubber plantation (40.9%) was identified as the most common source of artificial collection of water.78.9% reported having similar dengue cases in the locality. Fever (87.1%), headache (55.3%), body ache (50.4%) were the common clinical presentation. 94.5% of cases with DHF were cured within 7 days. 33.3% of DSS cases required hospital admission for more than 7 days.Conclusions: The present study inferred that, breeding premises, within the same household and in the same locality are some of the factors playing a role in transmission of dengue. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, active public health surveillance of dengue has to be enforced. Appropriate referral to higher centres reduce complications and mortality.
Incidence of COVID-19 infection amongst the high risk versus low risk health care workers: an audit from a tertiary cancer care centre
Authors: Shetty Nitin , Chakrabarty Nivedita , Joshi Amit , Patil Amar , Kulkarni Suyash , Khattry Navin , Gupta Sudeep , Chavan Preeti , Bhat Prasanth , Bhat Vivek , Rane Pallavi
Published: June 2021

Background: Theoretically, health care workers (HCW) are at increased risk of getting infected with COVID-19 compared to the general population. Limited data exists regarding the actual incidence of COVID-19 infection amongst the high risk and low risk HCW of the same hospital. We present an audit from our tertiary cancer care centre comparing the COVID-19 infection rate between the high risk and low risk HCW, all of whom had been provided with adequate protective measures and health education.Methods: This is a retrospective observational study from 01 April 2020 to 30 September 2020, in which all the 970 HCW of Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer were divided into high risk and low risk groups. High risk HCW included all the medical and non-medical staff directly involved with the care of COVID-19 patients, and rest were low risk HCW. Adequate protective measures and classes for infection prevention were provided to all the HCW. We calculated the incidence of COVID-19 infection in both these groups based on the positive real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) result and also looked for any significant difference in incidence between these two groups.Results: The incidence of COVID-19 infection amongst the high risk HCW was 13% and that of low risk HCW was 14%.Conclusions: We found no significant difference in COVID-19 infection between the high risk and low risk HCW. Thus, along with protective measures, behavior modifications induced by working in high risk areas, prevented the high risk HCW from getting increased COVID-19 infection compared to the low risk HCW.
A cross-sectional study of prevalence of overweight and hypertension among veterans in Eastern Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Adhya Saibal , Tyagi Arun , Anand Vivek , V. Pavithra
Published: June 2021

Background: Health problems of veterans have not been studied extensively. Obesity though not a major problem while in service, could be a major factor leading to morbidity and mortality due to lifestyle diseases seen among overweight/obese people.Methods: Status of overweight and hypertension was studied among ex-servicemen population of a military station in the age group of primarily 50-70 years.Results: More than 35% veterans were found to be overweight/obese. Underweight was a more serious problem than overweight among those above 70 years of age. Prevalence of hypertension was also high (25%). There was weak association of overweight with hypertension among ex-servicemen because the problem seems to appear late in life. This association was stronger upto 60 years of age after which it starts decreasing.Conclusions: The problems of overweight and obesity and hypertension constitute considerable health burden among the veterans. However, a significant causal association could not be established between overweight and hypertension.
Conspiracy beliefs and pandemic related behaviours: a study from India
Authors: Dubey Chahat , Hameed Noufal T. , Satheesan Sisira C.
Published: June 2021

Background: COVID-19 pandemic is still affecting large sections of populations all over the world. Thousands of deaths and damages to life that are indescribable, the pandemic has not yet come under control. Several studies show a significant impact of the same on mental health. The present study aimed at understanding conspiracy beliefs and pandemic related behaviors. It also aimed at documenting the level of distress reported.Methods: The cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among the public from India. The study assessed conspiracy beliefs, pandemic related behaviors, and psychological distress using standardized questionnaires. Basic demographic details were also collected. The questionnaires were converted to Google form, and the link was sent to the public along with a description of the study. Quantitative analysis was used, including frequency, mean, standard deviation, and student t-test.Results: Hundred and thirty individuals (49 males and 81 females) participated in the study (mean age=29 years). About half of the participants reported higher levels of distress. No significant gender difference was found on the endorsement of conspiracy beliefs or in engagement in pandemic related behaviors. Engagement in pandemic related behaviors was significantly higher among participants who reported high levels of distress. However, on the endorsement level of conspiracy beliefs, there was no significant difference between those who reported high or low levels of distress.Conclusions: Endorsement of conspiracy beliefs, engagement in pandemic related behaviors, and psychological distress are important variables that require attention at the present scenario.
The pattern of suicide poisoning cases in the Tertiary care Centre in Chengalpet district, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Veerasamy R. Swaminathan , Raja V. Pragadeesh , Muthukumar T. , Kalaivani A.
Published: June 2021

Background: Suicide is an important public health problem, every year 800000 people due to suicide, Suicide is the third leading cause of death in 15-19-year-old only. Most (79%) of the suicide happened in low and middle-income countries. Among them consuming poisoning is 25.8%. In India 2019 incidence of suicides 10.4 per one lakh (1,00,000) of population. Tamil Nadu is the state of India sharing most of the suicide deaths, second position (9.7%) in 2019 next to Maharashtra (13.6%).Methods: This is a Hospital-based cross-sectional study, this study was conducted among suicide patients who consumed poison by using nonprobability, consecutive sampling. A pretested questionnaire was administered, and information regarding socio-demographic factors, type of poisoning, and outcome of poisoning was obtained. Statistical analysis was done through Statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 21.Results: Of 111 suicide poisoning patients admitted, were female (50.5%) and the majority were from a rural area (70.3%). Among suicidal, tablet poisoning was predominant (27.7%), followed by Organophosphorus poisoning (26.8%) and rat killer poisoning (17.1%). The major reason for suicidal poisoning was family problems (58.6%), and the majority of Suicidal poisoning was more among the age group of 11–30 years (67.6%) and middle socioeconomic status (50.5%). The majority of patients were admitted to the hospital with median days of 2 days (range 1-12). Among 111 patients 109 are cured and discharged and death of 2 cases.Conclusions: Suicides are avoidable and preventable deaths, there are so many measures are there in individuals levels particularly high-risk persons and community level also. So many poisoning cases are tablets and organophosphorus so to take steps for reducing access for that like legislative measures and regulations. Early identification of the mentally disturbed persons and to give counselling.
Prevalence of health morbidity and health seeking behavior among elderlies in rural Kerala
Authors: Srinivas Vani
Published: June 2021

Background: Population ageing has profound social, economic and political implications for a country. The increasing number of older persons put a strain on health care and social care systems in the country. Old age comes with lot of ailment and diseases. Kerala’s elderly population proportion is higher than that of India. The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence and type of health morbidities among elderlies, in rural area. Methods: We conducted a community-based cross- sectional study in rural area of Palakkad district of Kerala from September to October 2017 among 396 randomly selected elderlies. The data was collected by 3rd year, MBBS students using pretested, semi structured questionnaire. The medical records were reviewed by students. Data were entered and analysed using Microsoft Excel 2016 version.Results: Out of 396 elderlies, the self-reported prevalence of health morbidities was 91.6%. Out of 361 elderlies with morbidities, 30% had atleast one morbidity and rest had multiple morbidities. The most common self-reported morbidities were hypertension (42.4%), loss of the natural teeth (40.2%), arthritis (38.1%), diabetes (34.8%), cataract (29.5%), asthma (9.1%), angina (8.3%), history of injury (7.3%) and history of recent surgeries (41.2%) in past. More than 90% of elderly diagnosed with lifestyle diseases were on treatment.Conclusions: The prevalence of non-communicable lifestyle related diseases and degenerative diseases is high among elderlies and is the major burden of disease. The elderlies had good treatment seeking behaviour towards non communicable diseases. However, needs improvement in treatment seeking behaviour of degenerative diseases.
Role of physical activity and metabolic syndrome in determining the risk of postmenopausal breast cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Thamil Manni Shuwaathi , Mathialagan Amuthaganesh , Karisnan Kanakeswary , Noris Calvin P.
Published: June 2021

Physical activity (PA) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) have emerged as crucial factors in facilitating the incidence of postmenopausal (PM) breast cancer (BC). The association of PA, MetS and its components with PM BC was explored in this study. PRISMA guideline was followed and online databases were searched comprehensively to find relevant cohort and case-control studies until 18 February 2021 using keywords such as “physical activity”, “metabolic syndrome” and “breast cancer”. Eligible studies evaluating BC in postmenopausal women with a clear definition and measure of PA, MetS and its individual components were selected. A total of twenty-three articles related to PA and fifteen articles for MetS met the eligibility criteria and were assessed thoroughly. PA and MetS were significantly associated with PM BC. There was evidence of dose-response effect of PA and Mets on PM BC. Obesity, diabetes and dyslipidaemia were independently associated with PM BC and posed an increased risk on PM BC whereas the association of HPTN with PM BC was not prominent. Consistent and sustained long term PA throughout one’s lifetime was observed to decrease PM BC risk whereas increasing number of MetS components increased the risk of PM BC. Routine screening for PM women with ≥2 MetS components and obese or overweight women with any of the MetS components may be beneficial in early BC detection. Lifestyle modifications with emphasis on long term PA would be beneficial to public health in preventing and improving MetS outcomes as well as a primary prevention of sporadic PM BC.
Evaluation of immune response to hepatitis B vaccine among health care workers at a tertiary care hospital in south India: a retrospective record based study
Authors: Siddaiah Archana , Chandralekha Kona , Dore Apoorva , Ramesh Naveen , Joseph Bobby
Published: June 2021

Seroprevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) among healthcare workers (HCWs) is two to four times higher than that of the general population due to repeated exposure. To determine the hepatitis B (hep B) vaccination status, non-response rate to (hep B) and its determinants among HCWs at a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India. A secondary analysis of the medical records of a group of HCWs who joined the hospital from 1st January 2015 to 31st December 2016 was done. A total of 451 HCWs received the vaccine at the study hospital. Mean age of the HCWs was 25.3±6.1 years, majority 374 (82.1%) of them were females and joined as staff nurses 213 (47.2%). Only 164 (36.3%) had received all 3 doses of hep B vaccination. Complete vaccination with (hep B) among HCWs was poor. Health education and suitable administrative controls must be instituted to ensure protection.
Chronic-periodontitis: could it be a connived-culprit of COVID-19?
Authors: Elisetti Nirupa
Published: June 2021

Periodontitis is a multi-factorial disease resulting in the disruption of the attachment apparatus. COVID-19 has been alarming to many nations despite consistent efforts. Research has been continuously going on to curb the spread of the disease by gaining knowledge on the insights of the pathology of the disease. The current exploratory research establishes a correlation between periodontitis and COVID-19 and the impact of periodontal health in COVID affected patients. A search was performed using three data bases, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar published from 2019 to 2020. The keywords used for the search were COVID-19, and pathogenesis of periodontitis. The results of the search resulted in many reviews, original research, systematic reviews, case reports, etc. The critical selection of the articles especially systematic reviews was given utmost importance. Much less research has been done on the correlation of periodontitis to COVID-19. On the basis of search using the above mentioned keywords, a total of 26 articles were selected out of which only 21 articles were considered for the present exploratory review. The present review provides an insight into the pathogenic aspects of both periodontitis and COVID-19 and helps in establishing an ally which has been minimally explored to date. The pathogenesis of COVID shows a close similarity to periodontitis and henceforth a possible connection of the severity of COVID in patients suffering with chronic periodontitis. Periodontitis presents itself as a risk factor for many systemic diseases, and nevertheless, it has shown a possible similarity in the pathophysiology of COVID-19.
Lymphatic filariasis: a snap shot of a neglected tropical disease
Authors: Duker Alfred Allan , Kwarteng Efiba Vidda Senkyire
Published: June 2021

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a leading cause of disability worldwide and one of the most crippling and stigmatizing tropical diseases. LF transmission is widespread throughout regions of West Africa, coastal and south-eastern Africa, East and South-east Asia, South western India, Western Pacific and parts of South and Central America. The disease manifests as disfiguring pathology caused by microfilariae larvae damage to lymph vessels and nodes. LF is spread by mosquitoes that have been infected with filarial nematode larvae and about a billion people in 52 countries are thought to be at risk of contracting the disease on a global scale. Complex immune responses to filaria and their endosymbionts cause the pathologies associated with lymphatic filariasis. Several studies show that non-climatic factors that may be responsible for LF transmission at the micro level include environmental, social, economic, and demographic factors. Currently, the infection is controlled by mass drug administration regimens, vector control strategies and management of morbidities. This review discusses the ecological drivers of lymphatic filariasis transmissions in endemic hotspots.
Anganwadi centres in society
Authors: George Neethu , Selvaraju Mani Prabhu , Elavarasu Swathi , Ravichandran Tharun
Published: June 2021

According to Mahatma Gandhi, “if you educate a man you educate an individual, but if you educate a woman you educate an entire nation.” India, in spite of having the world’s largest youth population, it has been struggling a lot with the lack of efficient implementation of various policies in the health care system. Since majority of India’s population is still residing in the villages, which have a greater say in the overall development of the nation but they are left untouched most of the times either due to improper implementation of the policies or hindrances in the process of development of health care system. Anganwadi’s are India's backbone in delivering the healthcare that everyone in country can access to it, by focussing on nutritional supplementation, women’s health and so on. This paper is an attempt to shine the light on the impact of the Anganwadi centres in improving the health status of people in the rural areas at grassroot level, focusing especially on women and children’s health and the association between the potential contribution of the Anganwadi workers and the child health indicators. Also, current pandemic influences on the centres were quoted.
Gradings of periodontitis in relation with systemic disease
Authors: Albeshr Abdulhameed G. , Alhabdan Yazeed A. , Aljasem Raef Mohamad , Munshi Maha Assad , Bagasi Ahmed Mohammadhassan , Khars Mohammed Yaseer Al , Alrasheedi Naif Mayouf , Alodiani Mohammed Bandar , Alnefaie Mohammed Abdulrahman , Alibrahim Wesam Yousef , Alharbi Reem Mohammed , Aljuaid Hadeel Fahad
Published: June 2021

With the increasing prevalence rates of periodontitis cases, it has a great impact on human health, especially elderly patients. It constitutes a major health problem that can cause significant burdens. Infections are the main pathology that have been previously reported among studies in the literature because it has a strong correlation. There are common mechanisms that can cause systemic diseases: induction of systemic inflammation, inflammatory markers, the release of toxins, and translocation into other organs through the bloodstream. Proving the correlation between the potential presence of the involved pathogen and systemic diseases might be a significant key factor in predicting these systemic events. In addition, it will assist to have proper management in early intervention. The aim of the study was to provide more insight into the effect of correlation between periodontitis and other systemic diseases according to studies in the literature. Multiple organisms that can cause periodontitis have been significantly correlated with the development of many systemic diseases, such as atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease (CAD), pneumonia, respiratory tract infections, oral and colorectal cancers, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, Porphyromonas gingivalis has been commonly reported with the variously discussed systemic diseases which should draw more attention towards the proper management and prevent this organism and other microbes within the literature to enhance the outcomes.
Conceptional framework to support vulnerable students during crisis, a real online learning experience during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alrefaie Zienab A.
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has caused psychological burden in terms of fear of the infection, anxiety and stress because of the spreading news about cases and deaths and even loneliness of the quarantine and curfew measures. Vulnerable students need support specially during times of crisis and this brief describes a framework to help such students. It is based on a real learning experience with a student who suffered loss of a family member in coincidence with the pandemic curfew measures just before being enrolled in the course. On the contrary to the beginning that seemed unpleasant, the current framework was implemented and effectively helped the end of the course to turn fruitful for the student.
Mucormycosis and COVID-19: a skeleton in the closet and double burden for India
Authors: Saeed Ahmad , Uzair Muhammad , Eiman Saadia , Younas Hadia , Saeed Komal
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus chaos has enveloped India with highest daily death toll on 11th May with 4202 deaths and quite high positivity rates, over 21% countrywide. India is the second worst nation to suffer from pandemic having 20.80% share in global numbers. The Covid-19 recovered patients or those battling the virus with associated comorbidities and immunocompromised conditions   are more vulnerable to develop the opportunistic black-fungal infections. A potentially fatal black-fungal infection is cropping up among Covid patients. Mucormycosis has claimed 70 lives with nearly 2000 diagnosed cases. Those with diabetes and heavy use of steroids to survive Covid-19 complications are worst affected.
The importance for journals to publish commentaries and letters to the editor in the age of COVID-19
Authors: Teixeira da Silva Jaime A.
Published: June 2021

Letters to the editor (L2Es) and commentaries play an essential role in science communication and in critical analysis of the biomedical literature. This importance could not be more profound or more pertinent than now, in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, where there is considerable need to openly, transparently and urgently discuss medical findings related to healthcare. L2Es and commentaries offer fair opportunity for authors to comment on matters of general interest, or to challenge the findings of published papers, without fearing any risk of retaliation while being able to express their personal opinion about an issue that matters to them, and allowing the challenged authors to respond within an academic setting. It is important to expand this form of communication via L2Es and commentaries to biomedical and healthcare policy journals that might lack this option.
Clinicopathological correlation in the diagnosis of granulomatous cutaneous disorders: a retrospective study
Authors: Nijhawan Manisha , Yadav Divya , Nijhawan Shivi , Shaktawat Damini
Published: June 2021

Background: To ascertain the various cutaneous granulomatous disorders and clinicopathological concordance in skin biopsies.

Methods: The study included the patients with skin biopsy showing granulomatous infiltrate in a tertiary care center. The cases were categorized according to level of concordance into consistent, corroborative and inconsistent based on the concurrence between clinical and histological diagnosis.

Results: Of the total 155 granulomatous disorder, 75.48% showed clinicopathological concordance, 19.35% showed corroborative diagnosis while 5.16% were inconsistent. The maximum number of biopsies performed were in the group of young adult (19-49 years, 57.41%). The most common type of granuloma found was of tuberculoid type and disorders were Hansen’s disease, fungal infection and cutaneous tuberculosis.

Conclusions: Our study showed that the coordination of dermatologist and pathologist plays a pivotal role in making accurate diagnosis of granulomatous cutaneous dermatoses.
Chronic urticaria: a clinico-etiological study and autologous serum skin test role in chronic idiopathic urticaria
Authors: Badabagni Purnachandra , Thammineedi Sruthi , Birudala Ramadevi
Published: June 2021

Background: Appearance of wheals daily for more than six weeks is chronic urticarial (CU). No cause is identified in about 50-70% of chronic urticaria patients and are labelled as chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU). The aim of the present study is to study the clinical and etiological pattern of chronic urticaria and to find out the incidence of autoimmune urticaria by performing autologous serum skin test (ASST) in patients with CIU.

Methods: This was a cross sectional study enrolling 100 chronic urticaria patients satisfying including and excluding criteria. The study was done for a period of 1 year. ASST was done in all the CIU patients after recording detailed history, complete physical and systemic examination.

Results: Most of the patients (33%) were in 21-30 years age group with female preponderance (66%). Students (38%) followed by house wives (27%) were majorly involved. 21% patients had history of atopy and 8% had abnormal thyroid function tests. Causative factors noticed in 46% patients and remaining were idiopathic (54%). Infections (32.6%) constituted the major etiological factor followed by physical urticaria (30.4%), food (23.9%), medication (11%) and inhalants (2.1%). In infective agents, 46.6% were bacterial followed by helminthic (33.3%). In 29.6% of CIU patients, the ASST was positive indicating auto-immune urticaria.

Conclusions: The etiology cannot be identified in most number of patients and hence they were labelled as CIU and the common causative agents observed were infections followed by physical urticaria, food and medication. ASST is considered as the relevant screening test to detect autoimmune urticaria.
Dermatologic manifestation of COVID-19: a systematic review
Authors: Alviariza Annisa , Budiani Luh M.
Published: June 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infections, causing disease known as COVID-19, has been associated with a myriad of symptoms, including dermatological ones. Despite there has been a consensus on pulmonary and systemic signs and symptoms of COVID-19, the same cannot be said of dermatological ones. We write in attempt to find a common theme of dermatological manifestations of COVID-19. We conducted literature searches from Medline databases as well as Google Scholar using keywords “cutaneous manifestations of COVID-19” and “dermatologic manifestations of COVID-19”. We included case series in our pooled descriptive analysis to describe types of cutaneous eruptions, localizations, and associated symptoms among COVID-19 patients with confirmed real time-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) results. We included 12 case series in our pooled analyses with 2 more analyzed separately due to non-comparable data presentations. The results identified common types of cutaneous eruptions associated with COVID-19 to be maculopapular rash, urticaria, vesicular rash, vascular rash. Eruptions tend to be localized on the trunks, with lesser frequency found on extremities, and eruptions are often accompanied by pruritus of varying intensity. These various eruptions are associated with two distinct pathological pathways, namely inflammation of skin tissues, causing inflammatory rashes, and hypercoagulable state which is associated with vascular rashes. Our literature review identified several common types of cutaneous eruptions associated with COVID-19 with different proposed pathophysiological mechanisms for inflammatory and vascular rashes. This review is limited by its data sources which includes only case series as well as the fact that at this stage in the pandemic, little biomolecular research has been conducted to definitively associate SARS-CoV-2 infection with cutaneous manifestations.
Erythrokeratoderma variabilis: a case report
Authors: Devaraj Yogesh , Mukunda Ranga Swaroop , Mallya Rashmi R. , Kalra Taranpreet Kaur , Devendra Shaila Shree
Published: June 2021

Erythrokeratodermia variabilis (EKV) was first described by Mendes da Costa. It is a rare heterogeneous group of inherited cornification disorders characterized by two distinct types of skin lesions: fixed hyperkeratotic plaques and sharply marginated, pruritic, migratory erythematous lesions. We report a case of EKV in a 44-year-old male patient.
Hair: more than just an appendage
Authors: Reddy Harshitha , Shanmugam Srikanth , Karunanandhan Manobalan
Published: June 2021

Hypotrichosis is a relatively common feature of a number of complex hereditary syndromes. However, the isolated variant, called hereditary hypotrichosis simplex (HHS), is uncommon. We present a 4 years old child and his father who presented to us with features suggestive of HHS. No other associated ectodermal and systemic abnormalities were noted.
Extensive erythema elevatum diutinum associated with IgA monoclonal gammopathy: a rare case report
Authors: Rijhwani Manish , Yadav Divya , Nijhawan Manisha , Verma Arvind
Published: June 2021

Erythema elevatum diutinum (EED) is a rare form of leukocytoclastic vasculitis with an unclear pathogenesis. Almost 250 cases of EED have been reported in the literature, associated with several diseases and presented with various clinical features. Term 'diutinum' means chronic, describes one of the main characteristic features. The duration is very long, varying between one to more than 39 years. We report a rare presentation of EED in a 58-years-old man who presented with extensive and symmetrical, persistent, erythematous to violaceous   plaques over trunk and limbs and popular-nodular lesions present over pinna and dorsum of hands with burning sensation and itching over few lesions, in association with IgA monoclonal gammopathy.