bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocular parameters alterations after hemodialysis in patients with chronic kidney diseases
Authors: Almaznai Abdullah , Alsaud Sarah , Fahmy Rania
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

To evaluate the effects of hemodialysis (HD) on visual acuity (VA), central corneal thickness (CCT), intraocular pressure (IOP), and macular thickness (MT) in chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients and also to investigate the relationship between the ocular parameters and blood biochemical parameters such as serum albumin, creatinine, sodium, and urea levels.

METHODS:

A prospective cohort study including a total of 24 CKD patients of both genders (above 18 years old) undergoing HD in XXX was conducted. The participants were divided into three sub-groups based on the primary cause of renal failure, group 1: Hypertensive kidney disease, group 2: Diabetic kidney disease, group 3: Other causes. All subjects underwent full ophthalmological examinations including measurement of VA using LogMAR, IOP, CCT, and CMT. Comparisons between different ocular parameters during pre- and post-HD sessions were done using the paired t-test. The relationship between changes in ophthalmologic and blood biochemical parameters was calculated using Pearson correlation coefficient.

RESULTS:

HD did not significantly alter any ocular parameter within and between CKD groups. Spherical equivalent changes were found to be significantly correlated with serum K (r = −0.315; P = 0.038), and IOP results were positively correlated with serum creatinine (r = 0.330; P = 0.029) and negatively correlated with hemoglobin (r = −0.349; P = 0.020). Bodyweight alterations were significantly correlated with CCT (r = −0.03; P = 0.0001). However, no correlation between ocular parameters and duration of HD was detected.

CONCLUSION:

Following a single HD session, ocular parameters did not alter significantly.
Agreement between three methods for measuring near point of convergence among patients with different refractive errors
Authors: Baskaran Antony A. , Britto Tanuja , Sowndher Raja T. , Thomas Philip A.
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

To describe the agreement of three methods of Near Point of Convergence (NPC) measurement among patients with different refractive errors.

METHODS:

60 asymptomatic subjects, 18 – 25 yrs old, were included in 3 groups: emmetropes, myopes and hypermetropes. All subjects underwent NPC break point and recovery point measurement by Royal Air Force (RAF) rule, Pencil Rule (PR) and penlight with red green glasses (RG) using standard techniques. The values obtained were compared within each group by Friedman test. Bland Altman plots were constructed and Limits of Agreement calculated.

RESULTS:

Hypermetropes performed poorly in RG test with significantly receded break point and recovery point values (10.30 ± 1.45cm, 13.13± 1.20cm) compared to RAF test (7.18 ± 1.86 cm, 10.15 ± 2.11cm) and PR test (7.78 ± 1.75 cm, 10.75 ± 1.44cm). The recovery point values of the emmetropes with RG test (10.15 ± 2.32cm) was significantly receded compared to PR (9.30 ± 1.72 cm) and RAF test (Emm: 9.08 ± 2.30cm). The myopes performed better with PR test with significantly better recovery point values with PR test (8.70 ± 1.97 cm) compared to RAF (9.68 ± 2.08) and RG (9.45 ± 1.73) tests. The limits of agreement were wide suggesting disagreement between the tests.

CONCLUSION:

The RG test yields more receded results in hypermetropes compared to the RAF and PR tests, and the PR test yields better results than the RAF test in myopes. Thus, the results obtained by these different methods show a lack of agreement. The variability is not uniform in patients with different refractive errors.
Community ophthalmology clinic utilization and morbidities results from a private primary healthcare center in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khathlan Afaf A. Bin
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

To study the utilization of the ophthalmology clinic in a primary care setting through number and type of ophthalmic cases that were managed.

METHODS:

This retrospective descriptive study included all ophthalmic cases treated during a 6-month period in a private sector primary healthcare center ophthalmology clinic in 2018. We measured clinic utilization by recording the proportion of patients treated among the total number of patients treated in the center, the number of visits during different times of day, and the most common diagnoses encountered.

RESULTS:

Among 32,518 visits to the health center during the study period, we recorded 422 (1%) visits to the ophthalmic clinic. First visits were 406 cases, and 16 were the follow-up visits. Patients tended to utilize the evening sessions more than morning sessions, with a median of 23 patients per month. Refractive errors in 89 cases (22%) and blepharitis in 88 cases (22%) were the most common diagnoses encountered. Visually significant cataract was not recorded in this study with a prevalence of 31% (14/45) in the >50 years of age group. Seven cases (2%) required referral to hospital during the study period for secondary eye care.

CONCLUSION:

Since most cases in this study were managed in the clinic with good utilization of the services offered, we concluded that a community ophthalmology clinic as a first contact would be useful in some primary healthcare centers. More studies are needed in different regions/settings before widely establishing the service in Saudi Arabia.
Anterior clinoid mucocoele presenting as progressive fluctuating visual loss mimicking inflammatory optic neuropathy
Authors: Herath H. M. M. T. B , Alahakoon A. M. B. D. , Mohideen M. S. , Chandrakumara A. A. R. , Senanayaka S. , Goonarathne I. K.
Published: October 2021

Optic nerve lesions usually produce monocular visual loss, and in compressive optic neuropathies, gradual vision loss is the more usual presentation. Mucocele in the anterior clinoid process is a rare cause of compressive optic neuropathy that can lead to monocular visual loss. A 19-year-old Sri Lankan girl presented with progressive, painless fluctuating right-sided monocular visual loss over 1-year duration. On presentation, right side visual acuity was 6/60 and fundoscopy revealed pale disk on the right side. Ocular tomography showed right-sided temporal retinal thinning. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed right anterior clinoid process mucocele causing compression and kinking of the right optic nerve. Because the right side, optic disc was already pale and retina was thinned, we decided to manage conservatively. Early imaging in compressive optic neuropathy is useful for the diagnosis and early neurosurgical intervention. Delaying the diagnosis can lead to permanent visual loss.
Effect of intraoperative optical coherence tomography on anatomic and cosmetic results of intrastromal tattooing
Authors: Agarwal Rinky , Urkude Jayanand , Nair Sridevi , Asif Md. Ibrahime , Sinha Rajesh , Sharma Namrata
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of intraoperative optical coherence tomography (i-OCT) on anatomic and cosmetic outcomes of intrastromal keratopigmentation (i-KTP) performed by novice lamellar corneal surgeons.

METHODS:

Thirty patients presenting with unilaterally disfiguring corneal scar and nil visual prognosis were subjected to i-OCT-guided intrastromal tattooing with rotring ink, by ophthalmology residents undergoing training in corneal surgeries at our center, who were later asked for a subjective feedback and mean stromal depth dissected was measured objectively. All patients were followed up for 9 months after surgery, and the subjective satisfaction of the patient, an independent observer, and surgeon was graded as poor, good, and excellent.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the patients was 29.53 ± 13.82 years (8–56 years). The most common cause of corneal opacity was healed keratitis with (6/30) or without (3/30) adherent leukoma, trauma-induced ocular disfigurement (7/30), and bullous keratopathy (6/30). All residents reported that feed-back images on i-OCT were “helpful” in all eyes and “very helpful” in eyes with corneal thinning, stromal scarring, adherent leukoma, bullous keratopathy, and hypotony. The mean depth of lamellar dissection was 51.16% ±4.62% of preoperative corneal thickness. The cosmetic results as perceived by the patient, an independent observer, and the surgeon were excellent and good in 23 and 7, 26 and 4, and 20 and 10 patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

I-KTP may be employed as a primary method of cosmetic correction of unsightly corneal scars. Centers equipped with i-OCT may employ this tool for teaching i-KTP to their ophthalmology residents for better surgical results with minimal complications.
Electron microscopic comparison of the donor cut edges using femtosecond laser-assisted keratoplasty versus conventional keratoplasty
Authors: Tolba Mohamed Y. , Zaki Iman M. A. , Raafat Karim A. , Dib Amr A. Al , Eleiwa Taher , Chase Collin , Taher Ibrahim M.
Published: October 2021

PURPOSE:

To describe and compare the histological changes in the cut edges of the remaining donor corneal rim using femtosecond laser-assisted keratoplasty (FAK) versus conventional penetrating keratoplasty (PK) via light and transmission electron microscopic examination.

METHODS:

This was a prospective observational study of 10 eyes; 5 FAK (top-hat technique) and 5 conventional PK. Main outcomes were histological findings at the cut edge of the donor corneal rim (at 3, 6, 9, and 12 o'clock).

RESULTS:

Cellular and ultra-cellular changes in the form of stromal edema, disorganized collagen fibers, and nuclear changes were more prominent in the FAK eyes as compared to the conventional PK ones.

CONCLUSION:

FAK induces more collateral damage in the cut edge of corneal donor graft at cellular and ultra-cellular levels, compared to conventional trephination. Further studies are required to investigate the clinical ramifications of this observation.
Evaluation and comparison number of gingival fibroblast and osteosarcoma cell (MG-63 cell line) adhesive to mocugraft, alloderm, and collagen membrane with or without advanced platelet-rich fibrin
Authors: Reisie Bentol Hoda , Farhad Shirin Zahra , Sadeh Shirin Amini
Published: October 2021

Background:

The tissue engineering has recently shown a significant progress in the fields of membranes and biosynthetic materials. Advanced platelet-rich fibrin (A-PRF) contains functional molecules that have newly shown great interest in regenerative therapies. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of A-PRF on the adhesion of gingival fibroblast cells and osteosarcoma cells to different membranes.

Materials and Methods:

In this experimental in vitro study, three collagen, alloderm, and mucograft membranes were studied, which were cut into four 5 mm × 5 mm pieces and placed in the bottom of a 24-well culture medium. One milliliter of A-PRF was added to two wells from each group and the other two wells remained without A-PRF. The gingival fibroblasts and osteosarcoma cells were individually added to each well. The cell adhesion was studied using an electron microscope after 24 h. The data were analyzed by independent t-test, one-way analysis of variance, and least significant difference test.

Results:

In the presence of A-PRF, there was a significant higher osteoblast adhesion to collagen membrane compared to alloderm and mucograft membranes (P < 0.001). In the absence of A-PRF, adhesion of osteoblasts to collagen membrane was significantly higher than alloderm and mucograft (P = 0.019). Moreover, in the presence of A-PRF, fibroblast adhesion to collagen membrane was significantly higher than alloderm and mucograft membranes (P < 0.001). Furthermore, in the absence of A-PRF, no significant difference was found among the study groups (P = 0.830).

Conclusion:

A-PRF was effective on fibroblast adhesion to the collagen membrane, which is similar to its absence. A-PRF was also found to be very effective on the adhesion of fibroblast cells to the collagen membrane, and in its absence, even less adhesion was observed compared to the other membranes. The presence or absence of A-PRF showed no significant differences in both cells' adhesion for alloderm and mucograft membranes.
Knowledge, attitude, and expertise of nurses in intensive care unit regarding oral and dental care in hospitalized patients.
Authors: Haghighat Abbas , Mohammadi Iman , Tahani Bahareh , Teimoori Farshad
Published: October 2021

Background:

The purpose of this study was conducted to evaluate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of intensive care unit (ICU) nurses about oral and dental care in hospitalized patients.

Materials and Methods:

In this descriptive-analytic study, the statistical population included 214 nurses working in the ICU of the affiliated hospitals of Isfahan University in 1394. The level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of ICU nurses was assessed using questionnaires whose justifiability and stability were verified at the beginning of the study with a pilot study. Data were entered into SPSS software and tested by t-test, Spearman, one-way variance, and least significant difference test. The significance level was < 0.05.

Results:

The data of this study showed that the score of knowledge and performance in male nurses was significantly different from female nurses. There was a significant relationship between nurse's education and their knowledge score (P < 0.001). Furthermore, the performance score of nurses working in different parts was different too (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The findings showed that the knowledge and performance of female nurses about oral care were higher than men, but the attitude of the two sexes is almost the same. Nurses with lower educational degree had less knowledge, but their attitude and performance did not differ. The performance score of nurses working in ICU was different, but they had similar knowledge and attitudes.
The effect of silane-containing universal adhesives on the immediate and delayed bond strength of repaired composite restorations
Authors: Hoseinifar Razieh , Shadman Niloofar , Mirrashidi Farnaz , Gholami Sajad
Published: October 2021

Background:

The repair of composite restorations is considered as a conservative treatment for avoiding the risk of pulp injury, the enlargement of cavity preparation, and excess removal of sound dental structure. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of silane-containing adhesives on immediate and delayed shear bond strength (SBS) of repaired composite restorations.

Materials and Methods:

In this in vitro study, 132 discs of Z350 composite were fabricated and divided into fresh (10 min water storage) and aged (6-month water storage + 2000 thermal cycling). All composite surfaces were roughened and etched, and each group was divided equally into six subgroups: 1 (Single Bond 2), 2 (Single Bond Universal), 3 (Clearfil Universal Bond), 4 (silane + Single Bond 2), 5 (silane + Single Bond Universal), and 6 (silane + Clearfil Universal Bond). The specimens were restored with the same composite, thermocycled, and tested for SBS in a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed using one- and two-way ANOVA, t-test, and post hoc Tukey's tests. P < 0.05 was set as the level of significant.

Results:

The highest and lowest SBS (in both fresh and aged groups) were related to Single Bond 2 with silane and Clearfil Universal Bond with silane, respectively. The delayed SBS of Single Bond 2 was significantly higher than universal adhesives (in both with and without silane application) (P < 0.05). Silane had no significant effect on the repair bond strength of Single Bond 2 and Single Bond Universal (P > 0.05), while silane application significantly decreased the delayed SBS of Clearfil Universal Bond.

Conclusion:

The SBS of Single Bond 2 was significantly better than two other universal adhesives. The SBS of Single Bond Universal was not affected by silane application, while silane had a negative effect on delayed SBS of Clearfil Universal Bond.
Screening of oral squamous cell carcinoma by serum changes
Authors: Keshani Forooz , Khalesi Saeedeh , Aghaz Alireza , Farhang Mohammadreza , Akbari Nabiollah
Published: October 2021

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the sixth common cancer in the world and 90% of oral malignant tumors. The aim of this study was the investigation of changes in some metabolic elements of OSCC patients' serum.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, international databases such as PubMed, Science Direct, Scopus, Web of Science, and National (Magiran, IranMedex) were searched from 1980 to 2019. To analyze the data, a random-effects model was used to combine the differences in the mean of studies in STATA Software (version 12).

Results:

A total of 724 articles were found with initial searching that 474 duplicate articles, 228 articles were excluded by reviewing the title and abstracts, and 17 articles were excluded from the study due to lack of inclusion criteria. Finally, five articles entered the meta-analysis phase. The mean difference value for zinc concentration of blood serum was 2.01 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.36–3.66) and for copper was 1.04 (95% CI: 0.01–2.07). In both populations, the heterogeneity was found between studies (I
2 = 97.4, P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Probably higher serum levels of copper and zinc could be one way to help to do a primary screening of OSCC in suspected patients.
Evaluation of role of interferon gamma release assays in the diagnosis of latent tuberculosis in human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients
Authors: Singh Rajender , Fatima Nazish , Shukla Indu , Shameem Mohammed
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Tuberculosis (TB) is the most common opportunistic infection in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals. The risk of eventually developing active TB from latent TB infection (LTBI) is about 10% per year in HIV-positive patients in contrast to 10% lifetime risk in HIV-negative patients. Until recently, the tuberculin skin test (TST) was the only tool available for diagnosing LTBI. Interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs) were recently developed and address many of the limitations of TST test, especially in immunocompromised state.

Aims and Objectives:

(1) To determine the prevalence of latent, active pulmonary, and multidrug-resistant (MDR)-TB among HIV-positive patients in and around Aligarh region; (2) sensitivity and specificity of TST and IGRAs for diagnosis of LTBI in HIV positive patients; and (3) to assess drug resistance and mutational patterns of the clinical isolates of MDR-TB in HIV-TB co-infection.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done on all the patients attended the ICTC centre, JNMC, AMU Aligarh, seropositive for HIV, i.e. 469 (sample size) for the study period of 2 years from October 2015 to October 2017. All 469 HIV-positive patients were screened for latent and active pulmonary TB. Diagnosis of TB (active and latent) was made using clinical, radiological, and microbiological tests. TST and IGRA testing along with CD4 cell counts were also determined. Line probe assay was also done to assess drug resistance and mutational patterns of MDR-TB in HIV patients.

Results:

In our study, prevalence of HIV infection was 5.04%. Sixty-seven (14.28%) patients were as active TB (HIV-TB co-infection), out of which only one patient (1.49%) was confirmed as MDR-TB, 117 (24.94%) were diagnosed as LTBI. It was also evaluated that IGRA has more sensitivity (75%) and specificity (76%) than TST with sensitivity of 71.7% and specificity 66%.

Conclusion:

As there is no gold standard test for latent TB, longitudinal follow-up is needed to interpret discordant test results. There is a need to interpret negative QFT results with caution and to test for latent TB at higher CD4 counts, if possible. Interferon gamma assays can become better tool for diagnosis of especially for latent TB. However, more research study required for establish their relevance, especially in immunocompromised states.
Spectrum of malignancies among human immunodeficiency virus-infected patients at a tertiary level human immunodeficiency virus-anti-retroviral therapy center in a North Indian hospital
Authors: Arora Sumit , Mahesh Ashwin , Mahesh Nalin Kumar , Verma Niket
Published: October 2021

Introduction:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-infected individuals have a higher risk of some types of cancer. A chronic immunodeficiency state, increased survival in the highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) era and predisposition to certain oncogenic viral infections have been postulated as the main reasons. While, the incidence of acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) defining cancers (ADCs) is declining in the post-HAART era, non-AIDS-defining cancers (NADCs) are becoming an important cause of mortality in these patients.

Materials and Methods:

Analysis of the data of HIV-infected patients registered at an apex centre was done for 7 years. All patients were subjected to routine investigations on presentation (baseline) and during follow-up for the occurrence of any malignant disease. CD4 cell counts before starting anti-retroviral therapy and before the diagnosis of malignancy were noted. The date of the last review and the current status/outcome were recorded.

Results:

Out of 1258, 17 patients were diagnosed with various malignancies. Seven patients (41.2%) had ADCs and the remaining 10 (58.8%) had NADCs. The mean duration between diagnosis of HIV infection and diagnosis of malignancy was 59.53 months. The mean survival duration from the diagnosis of malignancy for all cases was 21 months. The mean survival duration was 29 months and 15 months for ADC and NADC group respectively.

Conclusions:

NADCs are on the rise in the era of effective use of HAART and increasing life span of HIV patients. The index of suspicion for cancer should be higher in such patients, especially compared to opportunistic infections in view of good immunovirologic status.
Psychological health and well-being in patients with sexually transmitted infections
Authors: Singh Swati , Singh Satyendra Kumar
Published: October 2021

Background:

Patients with sexually transmitted infections (STIs) suffer not only with the physical problems but also with various psychological problems. Majority of bacterial STIs are treatable in a short period, while viral STIs may persist for longer duration or have frequent recurrences.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of the study was To study different aspects of psychological health and well-being in patients with STIs.

Materials and Methods:

Study design was a prospective cross-sectional hospital-based study. Data were collected during July 2016–April 2018. STIs were divided into four groups (genital herpes, genital warts, and genital discharge and syphilis). One way analysis of variance and Scheffe Test were used for analysis of the data.

Results:

A total of 410 patients were included in the study. Majority of patients were suffering with genital herpes (139), followed by warts (104), discharge (92), and syphilis (75). Genital herpes and genital warts indicated significantly more cognitive affective (CA) depression as compared to the patients suffering with syphilis. Satisfaction with life was more with genital discharge and syphilis in comparison to the patients with genital warts and genital herpes. Genital herpes showed more perceived stress in comparison to genital discharge. Genital warts indicated more somatic depression as compared to syphilis and genital discharge patients while genital herpes showed more somatic depression than in patients suffering with genital discharge. Genital warts and genital herpes indicated significantly more overall depression as compared to the patients suffering with syphilis.

Conclusion:

Overall depression was more in patients with genital herpes and warts. The findings provide empirical bases for extended studies on behavioral intervention programs.
Incidence and Variation of Microbiological Profile of Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infection in Precise Comorbidities Associated with Tribal Sickle Cell Anemic Patients of Medical Intensive Care Unit in a Tribal Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Subudhi Monalisa , Jagatheeswary P. A. T. , Sahu Susanta Kumar , Das Sudhanshu Kumar , Subudhi K. B. , Rout Rashmi Ranjan
Published: October 2021

INTRODUCTION:

Sickle cell anemia is a genetic hereditary disorder, with multifactorial cause for increase susceptibility, to bacterial infection leading to more intensive care unit (ICU) admission, morbidity, and mortality. When it is superadded by morbidities such as Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and chronic heart disease (CHD), chances of morbidity and mortality will increase multiple times in the ICU.

AIM:

The aim of this study was to find out the incidence, variation, and load in the microbiological profile of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), depending on the comorbidities associated with these sickle cell anemic tribal patients in the medical ICU (MICU) of a tribal tertiary care center.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This prospective study was conducted in MICU of a tribal tertiary care center from March 2019 to February 2020. It included diagnosed sickle cell anemic tribal patients with microbiologically confirmed cases of CAUTI following urinary catheterization for more than 48 h in the MICU. Demographic and clinical data of these patients were collected. Detailed investigations of the patients with antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance pattern of isolates were collected.

RESULTS:

In our study, the DAI rate in tribal sickle cell anemic patients was 8.7 per 1000 device days with an incidence of 7.8%. CAUTI was more common in female sex (86.7%), low socioeconomic status (80%), duration of urinary catheter up to first 7 days (66.7%), and age group above 40–60 years (33.3%). The most commonly associated microorganism was Staphylococcus aureus (46.6%) followed by Escherichia coli (13.3%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (13.3%). Associated comorbidities were Type 2 DM (20%), cerebrovascular accident (CVA) (20%), ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) (13.3%), CKD (13.3%), and CHD (6.6%). S. aureus 7 (46.6%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae 1 (6.6%) were found in Type 2 DM, Streptococcus pneumoniae 1 (50%) in STEMI, E. coli 2 (13.3%) in CKD and CVA, P. aeruginosa in 1 (6.6%) case each with CVA and septic shock, and Acinetobacter baumannii in 1 (6.6%) case with epilepsy. Resistant antibiotic was ceftriaxone 28.4% to S. aureus and 100% to E. coli.

CONCLUSION:

Our analysis precisely of this tribal population brings several important and unique findings, which will aid in the development of some new or update guidelines for the prevention of CAUTI to reduce morbidity and mortality in the MICU of a tribal tertiary care center.
Appendectomy Challenge If There is not Neutrophil!
Authors: Koluman Basak Ünver , Aykota Muhammed Rasid
Published: October 2021

Acute appendicitis is a rare gastrointestinal condition in neutropenic acute leukemia patients. Urgent surgery as appendectomy in these neutropenic patients is a procedure with risks of morbidity and mortality. We report a rare presentation of a neutropenic acute leukemia patient with acute appendicitis operated urgently without any complications.
Serum Immunoglobulin Subclass Levels in Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in Ibadan, South Western Nigeria
Authors: Fasola Foluke Atinuke , Olaniyi John Ayodele , Kotila Taiwo Racheal , Ogundeji Sunday Peter
Published: October 2021

BACKGROUND:

Change in immunoglobulin (Ig) subclass levels, a manifestation of altered immune status, is thought to contribute to pathogenesis of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). Furthermore, pretreatment Ig level in NHL patients scheduled to receive immunotherapy has prognostic significance.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES:

This study was carried out to provide information on the levels of Ig subclass in patients with NHL in our center.

METHODS:

A descriptive cross-sectional study of patients diagnosed with NHL over an 8-month period was conducted. Controls were apparently healthy voluntary blood donors. Clinical information and results of hematology and clinical biochemistry investigations were retrieved from patients' case notes. The working formulation classification was used to subtype the NHL. Serum IgG, IgA, IgM, and IgE concentrations were assayed for for the levels in patients and controls.

RESULTS:

A total of 68 participants (cases n = 35, controls – 33) were included in this study. The mean age of the patients was 48.67 ± 17.3 years (range: 18–85). The hematological and clinical biochemistry results were within reference values for the population except hematocrit (Hct) which was low (28% ± 7%) and high erythrocyte sedimentation rate of 72 mm/h (interquartile range [IQR] – 52.0–100.0). IgD levels were significantly lower in the cases than the controls (P = 0.029) with a Cohen's medium effect size. There was a significant drop in IgE from Stage I to III of the disease (χ2(3) = 7.93, P = 0.047). Furthermore, there were significant positive correlations between IgD, IgA, IgM, and Hct and platelets.

CONCLUSION:

Immune paresis is associated with progressive disease or late clinical presentation, and this should be taken into consideration when managing these patients.
222Radon Carcinogenesis
Authors: Mazzotta Mauro , Mazzotta Alessandro Dario , Fernández Manuel , Cazzato Rocco Giuseppe , D'Ettorre Gabriele
Published: October 2021

Background:

Occupational exposure to radon in working environments should be considered as chronic because the subjects involved undergo the effect due to the ionizing radiation from the same gas and decay products. The exposure characteristics create conditions for toxicological, radio-toxicological cellular, subcellular, and molecular mechanisms that lead to lung cancer.

Aim:

Our aim is to clarify the prediction of probable cases of lung cancer in 222Radon-exposed subjects in order to point out an obvious risk that should not be underestimated, particularly in subjects with an accumulated dose in many years of activity and for the previously underestimated gamma radiation (214Bi).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 168 electret sensors were set in couples for 84 surveys in working environments; also a further pair of them was used in order to determine the background γ generated by cosmic rays and we considered four group: general population, never smokers, former smokers, and current smokers.

Results:

Results are expressed in terms of mean and standard deviation, standard error, geometric mean with statistical significance (P < 0.01 [t-test]), and excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR). They demonstrate an increase of both mean concentrations (P < 0.01 [t-test]) and ELCR. This happens with multiple values of the allowed limits >150 Bq m3 (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, EPA) or >300 Bq m3 (international commission radiation protection), until to an individual accumulated dose as 90–95 work level month. We have detected the environmental variability associated with the structural characteristics of the buildings and their construction.

Conclusion:

The results showed that exposure in underground environments is significant although generally these environments are used as archives. Surprisingly, data greater than expected are also evident on the ground floor and first floor of historic buildings with solid and compact walls, with other factors playing a role as reduced or absent air changes during the night and activation of heating when work is resumed after renovation.
Small Cell Carcinoma Base of Tongue
Authors: Shah Isha , Suryanarayana U. , Shah Aastha , Anand Dinesh , Patel Monik
Published: October 2021

Neuroendocrine small cell carcinomas (SCCs) are most commonly seen in the lung, and they rarely may arise in the extra pulmonary sites. Small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the tongue is an extremely rare entity with only seven cases reported in literature till date. Herein, we present a case of a 59-year-old male with a limited-stage small cell neuroendocrine carcinoma of the base of the tongue. We discuss clinical, pathological, radiological findings, and management of SCC of the base of tongue. Histopathological examination using immunohistochemistry, clinical features, and radiologic findings are all important for the correct diagnosis of extrapulmonary SCCs. As no standard therapeutic regimen exists, it is important to be aware of and to know how to deal with such rare cases.
Nutritional Status and Morbidity Patterns of the Elderly in a Northwestern Nigerian Hospital
Authors: Olawumi Abdulgafar Lekan , Grema Bukar Alhaji , Suleiman Abdullahi Kabir , Omeiza Yakubu Sule , Michael Godpower Chinedu , Shuaibu Abdulrahman
Published: October 2021

Context:

Nutrition is a significant factor in determining the health of older people because it affects almost all organs and systems, which could lead to varieties of diseases and premature death.

Aim:

To determine the nutritional status and its association with the morbidity patterns of elderly patients.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional hospital-based descriptive study involving 348 patients aged 60 years and above who presented at the Family Medicine Clinic.

Subjects and Methods:

Data of the socio-demographic profile, anthropometric measurements and clinical diagnosis were collected. The co-morbidities were classified based on the number, duration and affected organ or system. The nutritional status was assessed with the Mini-Nutritional Assessment tool.

Statistical Analysis:

Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were used to determine associations between nutritional status and morbidity patterns of the elderly. The level of significance was set at a P ≤ 0.05.

Results:

A total of 348 respondents were recruited with 60.9% of females and mean age of 67.83 (standard deviation ± 7.53) years. The prevalence of malnutrition was 25.3% and of risk of malnutrition 56.6%. Furthermore, the prevalence of multi-morbidity was 74.4%. Advanced age (odd ratio = 8.911, confidence interval [CI] = 1.992–39.872, P = 0.004), underweight (OR = 1.167, CI = 0.291–37.846, P < 0.001), lack of formal education, (OR = 1.569, CI = 0.357–0.908, P = 0.018), low monthly income (OR = 1.975, CI = 1.376–2.836, P < 0.001), chronic respiratory diseases (OR = 4.250, CI = 4.025–4.492, P < 0.001) and physical inactivity (OR = 2.466, CI = 1.063–5.722, P = 0.036) were the predictors of malnutrition. Furthermore, the duration of chronic disease for more than 10 years (OR = 1.632, CI = 0.408–0.979, P = 0.040) was significantly associated with at-risk of malnutrition.

Conclusion:

The study revealed advanced age, underweight, low educational status, chronic respiratory diseases and physical inactivity as independent risk factors for malnutrition among the elderly.
Prevalence and Factors Associated with Energy Drink Consumption amongst Undergraduate Students in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Ibrahim Usman Muhammad , Sani Hafsat Umar , Ayaba Aminatu Kwaku , Abdullahi Hadiza Musa , Jalo Rabiu Ibrahim , Tsiga Ahmed Fatimah Ismail , Adamu Aishatu L , Jibo Abubakar Mohammed
Published: October 2021

Background:

Overconsumption of energy drinks (EDs) is a global public health concern because of its potential health consequence.

Objectives:

This study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with ED consumption amongst undergraduate students in Kano, Northwest Nigeria.

Methodology:

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used to study 381 undergraduate students, selected using a two-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using interviewer-administered questionnaires and analysed using SPSS version 22.0 with P ≤ 0.05 considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 381 students were studied. The mean ± standard deviation age of the students was 23.1 ± 3.6 years with male-to-female distribution of about 1:1. Period prevalence of 67.0% within the last 30 days and point prevalence of 23.9% were found. The commonly used ED was Power Horse 44.6%. Up to 59.6% consumed EDs to boost their physical and mental capacity. Odds of ever-consuming EDs were lower in female undergraduates (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.5, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.3–0.7) and higher in Hausa/Fulani ethnic group (aOR: 1.7, 95% CI: 1.04–2.7). Amongst those who were currently consuming EDs, being 24 years or less (aOR: 1.9, 95% CI: 1.04–3.4) and coming from the Hausa/Fulani tribe (aOR: 2.5, 95% CI: 1.4–4.4) were associated with increased consumption. Male undergraduates (aOR: 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.4) and students who were residing on campus were less likely to be current consumers of EDs (aOR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3–0.9).

Conclusion:

Consumption of EDs is increasing amongst students and therefore relevant government agencies should ensure regulated advertisement and consumption to avert the health consequences.
Perception and Practices Towards COVID-19 Amongst Residents in Southern Nigeria
Authors: Akwaowo Christie Divine , Eyo Catherine Sebastian , Umoh Idongesit Odudu , Ekpin Victory Israel , Esubok Nneeka Uneabasi
Published: October 2021

Background:

Within a short duration, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) spread globally, affecting all facets of life and causing widespread panic. This study set out to assess the perception and practices towards COVID-19 of urban and rural residents in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study design and multistaged sampling technique were used. Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire between October and December 2020. Scores assessing perception and practices were allocated and graded based on specific stratified demarcations. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 822 individuals from the selected households were interviewed (urban: 401, 48.8%; rural: 421, 51.2%). Majority of respondents urban (99.8%) and rural (97.9%) were aware of COVID-19. Most respondents had low risk-perception of COVID-19 (62.4%), with significantly more rural respondents having low-risk perception (70.6% rural vs. 54.0% urban). The general perception of COVID-19 amongst the respondents was good (79.2%) with no statistically significant difference between urban and rural residents. Most of the participants had good practices towards COVID-19, with significantly higher proportion of urban respondents having good practice (93.8%) compared to their rural counterparts (83.1%). Amongst rural residents, high-risk perception was associated with higher proportion of good practice (93.4%) compared to 84.5% of low-risk perception (P = 0.015).

Conclusions:

The participants had high level of awareness, low risk perception, good general perception and good practices toward COVID-19. However, urban respondents showed better practices towards COVID-19. More attention should be directed towards improving COVID-19 perception and practices particularly amongst rural residents.
A Comparative Study on the Prevalence and Intensity of Urinary Schistosomiasis among Primary (Formal) and Almajiri (Informal) School Pupils in Kura Local Government Area of Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Gambo Safiya , Ibrahim Muutasim , Oyelami Oyeku A. , Raymond Belonwu
Published: October 2021

Background:

Urinary schistosomiasis remains one of the most prevalent neglected tropical diseases in the world today, particularly in developing countries including Nigeria. Chronic infection can affect the genitourinary system. School pupils, particularly the informal Almajiri school pupils are at increased risk of the infection.

Study Objectives:

The objective of this study was to determine and compare the prevalence and intensity of urinary schistosomiasis among primary and Almajiri school pupils in Kura Local Government Area (LGA) aged 5–15 years. We also aim to determine the presence of haematuria and proteinuria among these pupils.

Subjects and Methods:

It was a cross-sectional comparative study involving 200 primary and 200 Almajiri school pupils aged 5–15 years in Kura LGA who met the inclusion criteria. Urine samples were analysed by the dipstick urinalysis and microscopically examined for the egg S. haematobium.

Results:

The Almajiri school pupils had a significantly higher infection (55.5%) than the primary school pupils (43.0%). The infection was predominantly of light intensity in both school types (67%). The overall mean egg intensity was 51.6 ± 35 EPC. The infection was higher among boys and those aged 10 years and above. Majority of the pupils had microhaematuria (88.3%) and and proteinuria (71.1%), which were statistically significantly associated with the infection with P < 0.1 and P < 0.001, respectively.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of urinary schistosomiasis is higher among the Almajiri school pupils compared to the primary school pupils. Control programmes should focus on these Almajiri pupils in addition to the primary school pupils.
Vibrio alginolyticus Tympanostomy Tube Otorrhea in a Child Newly Diagnosed with Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia with no Seawater Exposure
Authors: Alomar Abdulrahman O. , Alsanea Mohammd , Almajed Abdullah , Alsaab Fahad
Published: October 2021

Vibrio alginolyticus is a rare pathogenic organism that has been associated with seawater contact causing gastrointestinal disease in most cases and in a narrower spectrum, otitis media, and externa. Here, we report an 8-year-old male child who presented with tympanostomy tube otorrhea caused by V. alginolyticus although his family reported strict water precaution adherence without any exposure to swimming pools nor seawater. Before this presentation, he had multiple otological and respiratory complaints since his birth, and he was investigated for primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD), for which nasal biopsy was done and returned negative. However, genetic panel testing was positive and confirmed PCD.
Late Facial Nerve Paralysis Following Tympanomastoid Surgery
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Acharya Satyabrata , Shajahan Nibi
Published: October 2021

Background:

Although uncommon, late or delayed facial nerve paralysis has been reported after tympanomastoid surgeries. The exact etiopathogenesis for late-onset facial nerve paralysis after tympanomastoid surgery is still debatable.

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess the potential etiology and outcomes of the late facial nerve paralysis after the tympanomastoid surgery.

Materials and Methods:

Eighteen patients of the late facial nerve paralysis out of the 1434 cases after tympanomastoid surgery were analyzed. The potential etiologies of the late facial nerve paralysis and its outcome were evaluated.

Results:

There was fallopian canal dehiscence in 10 patients (55.55%) out of the 18 patients with late-onset facial nerve paralysis in contrast to 262 of 1434 patients (18.27%) without late facial nerve paralysis (P < 0.01). Chorda tympani nerve was injured in three cases (16.66%) and overstretched in three cases (16.66%) whereas 2 (11.11%) had herpes labialis out of the 18 patients with late-onset facial nerve paralysis after tympanomastoid surgery.

Conclusion:

The risk for late/delayed facial nerve paralysis after tympanomastoid surgery is very rare. Exposure of the facial nerve and fallopian canal dehiscence is important risk factors for late facial nerve paralysis after tympanomastoid surgery. The viral reactivation and injury of the chorda tympani nerve may be triggered factor for the late facial nerve paralysis. The outcome of the posttympanomastoid surgery late facial nerve paralysis is excellent.
Nonpharmacological Management of Posttonsillectomy Pain
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: October 2021

Tonsillectomy is a frequently performed surgical procedure by otolaryngologists. Patients' complaints of posttonsillectomy pain are unavoidable. Pain is a significant obstacle for rehabilitation of the patients following tonsillectomy and it influences the duration of the hospital stay and ability to revive for normal activity. The pain following tonsillectomy often affects oral intake, ability to return to their daily world, and discharge from the hospital. The relief of posttonsillectomy pain remains challenging and even controversial. Pain is common and intense in the posttonsillectomy period. Posttonsillectomy is one of the most common unpleasant side effects of tonsillectomy. There are several techniques and treatment methods available to get relief from posttonsillectomy pain. Although this area has received little scientific attention until now, the desire for alternatives to drug-based treatment for posttonsillectomy pain has continued to develop in recent years. Currently, pain following the posttonsillectomy period continues to be a highly debated issue and an area of active research. Throat pain in the posttonsillectomy period can result in significant morbidity among patients. There are different pharmacologic agents available; each one has its risk profile and side effects when used for controlling posttonsillectomy pain. However, here this reviews article discusses important nonpharmacological agents for the management of posttonsillectomy pain. This article reviews the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and details of nonpharmacological agents used for controlling posttonsillectomy pain.
Restarting Neglected Tropical Diseases Programs in West Africa during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned and Best Practices
Authors: Kabore Achille , Palmer Stephanie L. , Mensah Ernest , Ettiegne-Traore Virginie , Monteil Rose , Sintondji Franck , Tine Justin , Tesfaye Daniel , Ogoussan Kisito , Stukel Diana , Fuller Brian B. , Sanchez Katherine , Pou Bolivar , Dembele Benoit , Weaver Angela , Reid Steven , Milord Marie Denise , Kassankogno Yao , Seim Anders , Shott Joseph
Published: October 2021

Countries across West Africa began reporting COVID-19 cases in February 2020. By March, the pandemic began disrupting activities to control and eliminate neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) as health ministries ramped up COVID-19–related policies and prevention measures. This was followed by interim guidance from the WHO in April 2020 to temporarily pause mass drug administration (MDA) and community-based surveys for NTDs. While the pandemic was quickly evolving worldwide, in most of West Africa, governments and health ministries took quick action to implement mitigation measures to slow the spread. The U.S. Agency for International Development’s (USAID) Act to End NTDs | West program (Act | West) began liaising with national NTD programs in April 2020 to pave a path toward the eventual resumption of activities. This process consisted of first collecting and analyzing COVID-19 epidemiological data, policies, and standard operating procedures across the program’s 11 countries. The program then developed an NTD activity restart matrix that compiled essential considerations to restart activities. By December 2020, all 11 countries in Act | West safely restarted MDA and certain surveys to monitor NTD prevalence or intervention impact. Preliminary results show satisfactory MDA program coverage, meaning that enough people are taking the medicine to keep countries on track toward achieving their NTD disease control and elimination goals, and community perceptions have remained positive. The purpose of this article is to share the lessons and best practices that have emerged from the adoption of strategies to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus during MDA and other program activities.