bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enteric parasitosis and its correlation with CD4 count in human immunodeficiency virus infected patients
Authors: H. Ranjana Devi , Th. Nabakumar Singh , L. Anand Singh , Singh R. K. Gambhir
Published: June 2019

Background: The gastrointestinal tract of the HIV/AIDS patient (s) is harboured by a number of luminal extracellular and intracellular parasites. These parasites are responsible for deteriorating and worsening the general health condition(s) of these immunocompromised groups of patients. Moreover, these parasitic infections are often correlated with the CD4 counts of the individuals. Therefore, with a view to assess the relationship between the presence of parasitic infection and that of the CD4 count, the present work is being undertaken.Methods: The study was conducted in the Parasitology section of the department of Life Sciences, Manipur University and CD4 count unit of Microbiology Department, RIMS hospital Imphal from 34 HIV positive Antiretroviral treatment (ART) naive patients, aged between 19 to 50 years. The samples were taken from the patients only after obtaining a signed consent form . Techniques like normal saline method, iodine wet preparation method, formol ethyl acetate concentration technique, Baermann modified funnel technique, modified Ziehl Neelsen staining technique and adhesive cellophane tape method were employed for the present investigation.Results: The present study reveals that patients with CD4 count <200 cells/μl were harbouring only two parasites (Cryptosporidium sp and G. lamblia) whereas individuals with CD4 count within the range of 200-500 cells/μl were observed to have harboured G. lamblia, Cryptosporidium sp, E.histolytica, hookworm, S. stercoralis and A. lumbricoides. On the other hand, enteric parasites associated with CD4 count >500 cells/μl included G. lamblia, hookworm, E. vermicularis and S. stercoralis.Conclusions: The present study shows that occurrence of intestinal parasitism is independent of CD4 count in HIV infected patients. Therefore, based on the present findings, it may be suggested that irrespective of CD4 count(s) and whether the patient experiences diarrhoea or not, regular monitoring of the HIV patient(s) for the presence of enteric parasitosis by adopting standard laboratory protocols should be encouraged for maintaining a healthy life of the people living with HIV/AIDS.
Comparison of the efficacy of combined epidural anesthesia with general anaesthesia alone to attenuate hemodynamic responses and perioperative analgesia in laparoscopic cholecystectomy patients
Authors: Bandewar Aishwarya , Naik Shweta , Kokne Manish , Kaur Sugampreet
Published: June 2019

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the efficacy of combined GA-Epidural Anesthesia (CEGA) with GA alone to attenuate hemodynamic responses and perioperative analgesia.Method: Authors conducted a prospective, randomized, double blind study, in which 60 patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy. Group A received (n=30) received GA and Group B (n=30) received combined GA and Epidural Anaesthesia (CEGA). Authors analyzed the effect of combined epidural general anaesthesia as compared to plain general anaesthesia with regard to hemodynamic parameters (heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure), intraoperative anaesthetic requirement (intraoperative requirement of propofol), recovery score and postoperative analgesia (VAS score).Results: Authors found significant decrease in the heart rate, systolic and diastolic blood pressure in response to stress response to pneumoperitoneum in combined epidural general anaesthesia (CEGA) group compared to plain general anaesthesia (GA) group. Total amount of propofol required intraoperatively was less in CEGA group than in GA group. Recovery score and pain score (VAS) score were also compared which were better in CEGA group than in GA group. There were no significant intraoperative and postoperative complications noted in both the groups.Conclusion: Authors concluded that the use of epidural along with general anaesthesia helps in attenuating hemodynamic changes due to stress response to pneumoperitoneum, which results in maintaining stable intraoperative and postoperative hemodynamics during laparoscopic cholecystectomy surgery. Combining epidural to general anaesthesia results in rapid recovery as compared to plain general anaesthesia and also helps in providing good postoperative analgesia.
Evaluation of the merits of two drugs-dexmedetomidine and ketamine for day care hysteroscopic procedures
Authors: Sen Jayashree , Sen Bitan
Published: June 2019

Background: The aim was to compare the hemodynamic changes intra operatively and to ascertain the superior efficacy of the study drugs Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective alpha-2-adrenoceptor agonist having sympatholytic, dose dependent sedation, analgesic properties, amnestic effect without respiratory depression and Ketamine, a n-methyl-d-aspartate receptor antagonist, a dissociative sedative hypnotic with potent analgesic properties and marked sympathomimetic effects, have been taken for day care (ambulatory) hysteroscopic procedures. The objectives are to evaluate the requirement of rescue sedative and /or analgesic during the procedure and any complication of the drugs per-operatively.Methods: About 25 patients in each group in the range of age 20 to 55 years, weight 40-60 kg, height 145-155 cm, ASA I and II were injected with dexmedetomidine (D) 100 µg IV or Ketamine (K) 75 mg IV both over 10 mins at the onset of the procedure. Maintenance of anaesthesia had been done on mask ventilation with 30% oxygen and 70% nitrous oxide.Results: The demographic data was statistically insignificant. The haemodynamics were stable in the group D, not in group K, ‘p’ value <0.0001. The request for rescue sedation propofol and rescue analgesic fentanyl and the number of top up doses were higher in the group K, p’ value <0.01, statistically highly significant. Group K had suffered more per-operative complications.Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine for day care hysteroscopic procedures can be the anaesthetic drug of choice.
Demographic profile and risk factors associated with dry eye disease in North Western Rajasthan, India
Authors: Jaju Meenu , Jain Kalpna , Kanawa Surbhi
Published: June 2019

Background: The aim was to study the demographic profile and analyze risk factor associated with dry eye disease in North West Rajasthan, India.Methods: This was a hospital-based study conducted in Department of Ophthalmology, Sardar Patel Medical College, Bikaner, Rajasthan. Sample size of this study was 100 patients. All participants underwent a general ophthalmic assessment including history of any previous ocular and systemic illness along with ocular examination on slit lamp and specific tests for dry eye (Schirmer's test and Tear film break up time) were performed.Results: Dry eye were seen maximum in age group 46 to 60 years (41%), followed by 61-75 years (23%). Female’s preponderance was seen compared with male. Dry eye patients belong from rural areas were (57%) while remaining (43%) from urban areas and among these highest were farmer/labourers (32%). Several known risk factors were found in this study which include post-menopause. Climatic condition like excessive wind, high temperature and computers users had strong association with dry eye. In Systemic disease rheumatoid arthritis was commonly associated with dry eye were. Smoking contact lens use were also associated with increased risk of developing dry eye.Conclusions: Dry eye disease are more common in older age group patients. Female’s preponderance were found in the study especially postmeopausal women. Dry eye disease are more common in patients belongs to rural areas. Risk factor associated with dry eye were Climatic condition like excessive wind, high temperature and computers users, systemic disease like rheumatoid arthritis Smoking, contact lens users.
Perception of dental practitioners in and around Kanpur city towards forensic odontology: a cross sectional study
Authors: Mehrotra Vishal , Mishra Gauri , Sachdev Rohan , Garg Kriti , Mukherjee Sekhar , Saxena Shubhra
Published: June 2019

Background: In the present era, forensic odontology has expanded as one of the most remarkable and commendable branches of Forensic Sciences. Through forensic odontology, a dentist plays a very important role in crime investigation of any type. The main objective of the present study was to evaluate the knowledge, percipience and practical perception of forensic odontology among the dental practitioners in and around Kanpur city.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from Jan-Mar 2019 among 207 dental practitioners in and around Kanpur city including 143 BDS and 64 MDS through a questionnaire proforma. The proforma consisted of 20 questions prepared on the topic of forensic Odontology and role of dentist in the field of forensic Odontology.Results: In this study, nearly 70% of dental practitioners were aware of the role of dentist in forensics, and around 60% of dental practitioners maintain dental records with recording of personal data and clinical findings being the most frequently used method. In the present study most of the dental practitioners were not aware of significance of chelioscopy (63%) and rugoscopy (66%) in field of forensic Odontology. Nearly 70% of dentist accepted the fact that their level of knowledge regarding forensic dentistry is inadequate and nearly 40% of them were not confident in giving any opinion regarding the same.Conclusions: This study shows that although there is an adequate awareness of role of dentist in forensic Odontology, but there is lack of good knowledge, confidence and practical approach of the dental practitioners towards forensic Odontology which may be due to lack of training, experience, exposure in field of forensics. Thus, the need of the hour lies in updating the knowledge and also developing interest of the dental practitioners regarding forensic Odontology.
A case control study to determine the role of vitamin D in the risk of coronary artery disease among type 2 diabetic individuals
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Pandey Sanjeev Kumar , V. Vijayavarman , K. Kiran , Kumar Arun
Published: June 2019

Background: Diabetes Mellitus comprises a group of metabolic disorder leading to hyperglycaemia. Vitamin D deficiency plays a role in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus pathogenesis. Vitamin D appears to affect several metabolisms that have been associated with coronary artery disease. Vitamin D level has been recently considered as an adjustable risk factor of cardiovascular diseases, in individuals with type 2 Diabetes.Methods: This case control study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, UPUMS. 100 diabetic individuals with low Vitamin D level were taken as cases and 100 diabetic individuals with normal vitamin D level as control. History and examination with necessary investigations were done. Patients with positive history were subjected to investigations to diagnose CAD.Results: The proportion of case and controls had no significant difference in age distribution. The risk of coronary artery disease was 2.76 times higher among diabetes mellitus patients with vitamin D deficiency (1.36-5.59). The risk of CAD was adjusted for various risk factors (age, sex, hypertension, smoking, physical activity, and lipid profile) Odds ratio was found to be 2.8 (95% CI-1.19-6.94, p-0.018).Conclusions: Vitamin D deficiency among diabetes patients was found to be an independent risk factor for CAD after adjusting other risk factors emphasizing that vitamin D can be a potential risk factor for development of coronary artery disease.
Hypoxia-inducible factor 1 alpha expression is an indicator of invasiveness in uterine cervical tumors
Authors: Ayaz Duygu , Diniz Gülden , Kahraman Dudu Solakoğlu , Sayhan Sevil , Kahraman Duygu , Karadeniz Tuğba
Published: June 2019

Background: Hypoxia is a common feature of cancers. Hypoxia-inducible factor 1A (HIF1A) is a causative agent that changes the transcriptional response of tumors under hypoxia. Some alterations lead to an increase in HIF1A activity and this supports other critical pathways leading to angiogenesis, metabolic adaptation and tumor progression. This retrospective study was designed to evaluate the differences of tissue expressions of HIF1A in a spectrum of cervical neoplasms.Methods: Tissue expression of HIF1A was studied in a total of 107 formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded uterine cervical tumors specimens and its association with different clinicopathologic parameters was evaluated.Results: In this series, there were 30 low and 29 high grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasms (CINs), 27 squamous cell carcinomas, 15 adenosquamous carcinomas and 6 adenocarcinomas. Strong and diffuse nuclear staining was evaluated as positive HIF1A expression. Positive HIF-1 alpha expression was detected in 7 (25.9%) of squamous cell carcinomas, 1 of adenocarcinomas (16.7%) and only 1 of HGSILs (3.4%). Statistically it was determined that the positivity rate of strong nuclear HIF1A expression was significantly higher in invasive carcinomas when compared with in non-invasive squamous cell carcinomas (p=0.07). Contrary, there was no statistically significant difference according to the subtypes of carcinomas due to scarce number of cases with adenocarcinoma (p=0.188).Conclusions: Our findings were demonstrated to link of nuclear HIF1A expression and the invasive characters of uterine neoplasms. As a result, HIF-1 alpha expression may be important in foreseeing of the invasion and tumor progression.
Prescribing pattern in outpatient department of neurosurgery in a tertiary care hospital of North India
Authors: Tabassum Rehana , Hussain Syed Sajad , Arif Sajad Hussain , Ramzan Altaf , Farhat Samina
Published: June 2019

Background: The neurosurgical disorders are amongst the leading cause of global mortality and morbidity. Though surgical intervention is thought to be the main management protocol in the neurosurgical setup but drugs are being equally used especially in the outpatient setting. The present study was carried out in view of the sparse data available on prescribing pattern in neurosurgery.Methods: The present study was conducted by the department of pharmacology in outpatient department of neurosurgery in a tertiary care centre to look into the prescription pattern among these patients.Results: In 268 patients analyzed, mean age was 43.02±15.93 years and 52.23% were females. Majority of our participants (44%) were found to be of young to middle age group (21-40 years). The diagnosis among the study population was spread over large number of diseases. Lumbar Disc Prolapse (LDP) was found to be the leading cause of neurosurgical morbidity, amounting to 32%. As far as the prescription of various drugs in the outpatient of neurosurgery is concerned, Analgesics were the most common drugs prescribed constituting about 48% of the total drugs prescribed followed by GABA analogues and multivitamins which equally formed 41% of the total prescribed drugs.Conclusions: Although the prescription pattern studies among the outpatient neurosurgery patients are very scant, the analysis of prescription studies will be helpful to encourage the rational drug prescribing pattern.
Integrated teaching in medical education: undergraduate student’s perception
Authors: Neeli Divyasree , Prasad Uma , Atla Bhagyalakshmi , Kukkala Saraswati Sarat Srinivas , Konuku Venkata Bala Saikumar , Mohammad Arfathunnisa
Published: June 2019

Background: Integrated teaching is an effective teaching method for the undergraduate medical students to achieve good knowledge and skills. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of vertical integrated teaching.Method: Vertical integrated teaching was conducted on the topic “Nephrotic syndrome” for 2nd MBBS (5th semester) students. Departments which participated in the session were from Physiology, Biochemistry, Pathology and General Medicine. Faculty from each department was allotted 20 minutes for their topic. After completion of all the topics students were given feedback forms. The opinions were tabulated and analysed.Results: Most of the students opined that integrated teaching is useful in gaining knowledge (Understanding, concept clarity and better performance in exams) (79.7%) as well as skill-based learning (Workshops, laboratory, clinical exercises and case discussion) (84.4%).Conclusion: The study showed that undergraduate students agreed that integrated teaching is useful for them in gaining knowledge as well as skill.
A rare case of childhood polyarteritis nodosa successfully treated with etanercept
Authors: Kamath Pragathi , Verma Bela , Sawant Tejasi
Published: June 2019

Childhood Polyarteritis Nodosa (CPAN) a rare and often fatal disease tends to be more common in individuals of Asian descent. Previously it was referred to as Infantile PAN. Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN) is a systemic autoimmune vasculitis characterized by necrotizing inflammatory lesions of the medium-sized and small muscular arteries, preferentially at vessel bifurcations, resulting in formation of microaneurysms, aneurysmal ruptures with hemorrhage, thrombosis and consequently organ ischemia or infarction. It usually appears in middle or older age without gender predilection. PAN shows variety of symptoms, including general symptoms, neurological, skin, renal and gastrointestinal involvement. In particular skin lesions characterized by multiple firm waxy papules, subcutaneous nodules, livedo reticularis, ulcers and gangrene are observed in 25%-60% of patients with PAN. The etiology of systemic vasculitis is yet unknown. However, dysregulation and/or enhanced expression of pro-inflammatory substances may be involved in pathogenesis of these diseases. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) alpha is a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced primarily by cells of macrophage-monocyte lineage which may directly participate in vascular inflammation as well as in endothelial cell death via apoptosis. In addition, TNF-alpha may play a role in neutrophil priming inducing membrane expression of Proteinase-3 or Myeloperoxidase which are subsequently recognized by ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV). Author report a case of 14 months old male child with complaints of fever, gangrenous changes of ear lobes, tip of nose and toes, seizures, altered sensorium and hypertension. Initially Injectable Methyl Prednisolone pulse therapy was started followed by oral Prednisolone. After initiation of Etanercept treatment, his symptoms improved dramatically. Sensorium improved, skin ulcers healed faster, and gangrenous changes were arrested, fever subsided and child started accepting oral feeds.
Severe Ocular Surface abnormalities in a child and Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Case Report.
Authors: Minhas Shailender , Tuli Rajeev , Sharma Gaurav
Published: June 2019

Ectodermal Dysplasia is a disorder that occurs due to abnormal development of at least two major ectodermal derivatives in the developing embryo. Author report the case of a 10 year old male child who was referred to our department with complaints of absent sweating, foreign body sensation and watering in both eyes for past few months. The family history could be traced to four generations and there was an observed trend of increase in severity of signs and symptoms occurring at younger age.  The purpose of this case report is to create awareness in the Ophthalmic community about the diagnosis and clinical manifestations of the disorder. This case highlights the role of multidisciplinary approach for management of systemic disease, genetic evolution of affected individual and carriers and genetic counseling.
Malignant nodular hidradenoma-inguinal region clinically masquerading as squamous cell carcinoma: a case report
Authors: Vernekar Sunita S. , Bargunam Priyadharshini
Published: June 2019

Malignant Nodular hidradenoma is an extremely rare aggressive tumour originating from eccrine sweat glands with an incidence of <.001%. So far less than 80 cases have been reported in the literature. It’s known for its local recurrence (50%) and metastasis (60%) and hence early diagnosis and radical treatment is mandatory. But differentiating it from its benign counterparts and other skin tumour mimics is challenging, due to its histopathological similarity & lack of diagnostic immunomarkers. Authors report a case of 65-year-old female who presented with a short 4-month history of rapidly growing ulceroproliferative growth in the right inguinal region with bilateral inguinal node enlargement, associated with pain and discharge. Wedge biopsy of left inguinal lymph node showed malignant cutaneous adnexal tumour deposits, which after excision was typed as malignant nodular hidradenoma. It was confirmed with immunohistochemistry. Patient presented with recurrence 8 months after excision.
Scar endometriosis: pre-operative diagnosis by fine needle aspiration cytology
Authors: Chavarkar Sneha P. , Rao Rajiv , Pandey Akanksha , Khatu Shirish P.
Published: June 2019

Scar endometriosis is a rare entity commonly observed after obstetrical and gynaecological procedures. The diagnosis is often delayed due to the non-specific nature of symptoms. Detailed clinical history of cyclical pain, location in proximity to a surgical scar and a suspicion of this rare entity in women of childbearing age are key to preoperative diagnosis. This is a case of a patient who presented with a troublesome scar after Caesarean section. On Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) a diagnosis of scar endometriosis was provided which was further confirmed on histopathology. Herein we discuss the cytomorphological features of this rare entity and also emphasize the importance of its diagnosis on FNAC which is a rapid and cost-effective method.
Gall stones: a fundamental clinical review
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Nouman , Iqbal Muhammad Arslan , Javaid Rukhsar , Abbas Muhammad Waseem
Published: June 2019

Formation of stones in the gall bladder is known as cholelithiasis. About 10% to 20% of Western population are suffering from gall stones and this percentage is increasing day by day. Biochemically gall stones are classified into black pigment stones, brown pigment stones and cholesterol stones. Gall stones can be anatomically located at two possible sites; in the gall bladder known as cholelithiasis and in the common bile duct known as choledocholithiasis. Gall stones may present with symptoms known as symptomatic gallstones or without symptoms known as asymptomatic gallstones. The major causes of gallstones are high cholesterol diet, low bile salt levels, decreased gall bladder motility etc. Obesity, female gender, family history, rapid weight loss and vitamin B12 or folic acid deficiency are considered as important risk factors in the development of gall stones. The clinical presentations include acute cholecystitis and febrile illness with pain and tenderness in the right upper quadrant (Murphy sign). Generalized body weakness and weight loss are considered as generalized symptoms of gallstones. The complications include cholangitis, empyema of gall bladder, pancreatitis, abscess formation, porcelain gall bladder and gall bladder perforation. The differential diagnosis of gall stones is carried out based on endoscopy, ALT and AST serum levels. Non-surgical treatment for gall stones is oral dissolution therapy. The standard surgical treatment for gall stones is cholecystectomy.
Tuberculosis: an overview of current literature on types, diagnosis and drug therapy
Authors: D. Victor Prabhakar , R. Lakshmi Keerthana , Salma Shaik , A. Amreen Siddiqua , Suryadevara Meghana , Kilaru Naveen Babu , Pingili Ravindrababu
Published: June 2019

Tuberculosis (TB) is an airborne infectious disease caused by organisms of the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex. It is a global problem and increases in case rates are occurring not only in the developing countries of the world but also in several industrialized nations. There has also been an alarming increase in the number and proportion of cases caused by strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis that are resistant to multiple first-line drugs. The increase in multiple-drug resistant tuberculosis has re-taught physicians about the importance of pursuing and ensuring treatment until cure. In many low-income and middle-income countries, TB continues to be a major cause of morbidity and mortality, and drug-resistant TB is a major concern in many settings. This article offers an overview of types, diagnosis and management of TB.
Histopathological spectrum of chronic skin ulcers in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Feroz Imza , Wani Abdul Haseeb , Nazir Mir Wajahat Un , Lone Mohammad Iqbal , Parry Arshed Hussain
Published: June 2019

Background: The skin is the largest organ of the body, comprising of epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. Thus, a wide range of diseases can develop from the skin ranging from infectious diseases to malignancy, some of which may present as non-healing ulcers. Skin biopsy forms the fundamental basis for differentiation of similar looking lesions, thus helping the pathologists to make a definitive diagnosis and more so to the clinician for better management of patients. The objective was to study the histopathological spectrum of chronic non healing ulcers of skin for proper management and treatment.

Methods: This was a hospital-based study which was conducted in SKIMS, Soura, a tertiary care hospital of Kashmir valley for a period of 1 year extending from January 2018 to December 2018. All the patients who presented with the complaint of non-healing ulcer for more than 4 to 6 weeks were subjected to skin biopsy and histopathological examination.

Results: A total of 260 biopsies were examined. Out of 260 patients 146 were males and 114 were females. Ninety out of 260 cases (34.61%) and 170 (65.39%) were diagnosed as malignant and benign ulcers respectively.

Diabetic ulcer was the second most common cause of non-healing ulcers followed by bacterial infections and tuberculosis. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common neoplastic pathology.

Conclusions: It was concluded from the study that non-healing skin ulcers can be encountered at any age in daily medical practice.
Dietary diversity among women of reproductive age (15-49 years): implication for folate deficiency in Mbarara district, Uganda
Authors: Tamale Denison , Kagoro-Rugunda Grace
Published: June 2019

Background: Understanding dietary diversity of women of reproductive age (WRA) is vital for better nutritional interventions of their health and that of unborn. Most diets consumed are macronutrient dense which leads to micronutrient deficiencies like neural tube defects (NTDs).Thirty three babies were born with NTDs at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital during 2016 and 2017 for reasons among which is folate deficiency. Folate can be derived cheaply from green vegetable consumption before antenatal visits. The study’s objective was to assess dietary diversity of WRA (15-49 years) living within Mbarara district.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted for three months using a translated dietary diversity questionnaire from Food and Agricultural Organisation. Applying a 24 h recall method at various intervals of feeding, 402 WRA living within three constituencies of Mbarara district were randomly selected to participate.Results: 70.1% of WRA attained high Individual dietary diversity score (IDDS) of (≥6). 45.1% consumed folate rich plant and animal sources. 4.8%, 8.4%, and 17.6% consumed dark green leafy vegetables, vitamin rich fruits and animal sources respectively. Education, constituency of residence and occupation had a significant association with IDDS of P≤0.05 (0.000, 0.004, 0.030) respectively. WRA who scored IDDS≥6, 58.2% attained at least secondary education, 51.1% lived in urban constituency and 47.5% were working. 30% consumed starchy staple groups, though at 15.8% legumes, nuts and seeds group was most consumed.Conclusions: Low intake of folate rich sources was noted, though many WRA consumed diverse diets therefore, education and employment are suitable interventions.
Patterns and characteristics of injuries encountered in road traffic accidents and effect of pre-hospital care on their outcome: a tertiary-hospital study in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Ikram Maryam , Fatima Rida , Ikram Anam , Shahid Farheen , Rafiq Maham , Nisar Tooba
Published: June 2019

Background: Road traffic accidents are the eighth leading cause of death worldwide, contributing significantly to the global disease burden. As there is a paucity of published data on RTAs in Lahore, this study was carried out to highlight injuries encountered in RTA victims and provide baseline data for the establishment of prevention strategies in our locality.Methods: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study of RTA victims admitted in Mayo Hospital, Lahore to determine factors associated with RTAs, characteristics, and outcomes of injuries sustained and effect of Pre-hospital care in determining the outcome.Results: Out of total 100 subjects recruited, 89 were males and 11 females. Ages of patients ranged from 5 to 70 years with the most injured age group ranging between 11-30 years (59%). Motorcyclists were found as the most vulnerable road user group (61%). Most of the accidents occurred because of a collision with another vehicle (45%). 65 victims received pre-hospital care en route to Mayo Hospital, which was found effective in preventing major disabilities in 81% of cases (53 out of 65). Incidence of Musculoskeletal injuries was highest (55%). Most patients (86%) were discharged without permanent disabilities. No patient died during our study.Conclusions: This study shows road traffic accident is a major public health problem in our setting and contribute markedly to high morbidity. Urgent preventive measures should be established to reduce the risk of their occurrence. Early recognition and prompt treatment are important for the survival of the victims.
Study on determinants of nutritional status of a school going children in a village of Tumakuru taluk
Authors: Mandolikar Ravindra Y. , Jadhav Smitha , Angadi Mahabaleshwar Mahanthappa
Published: June 2019

Background: Children (0-14 years) contribute to 26% of world population and 28.4% of India’s population. School going age is a formative period, physically as well as mentally, transferring child into a promising adult. Malnourishment in this age group compromises both physical and mental growth. The objective of the study was to assess the nutritional status and morbidity status among school going children.Methods: A cross sectional descriptive study was conducted at Greenberg international school Kannenahalli, Tumkur. After inclusion and exclusion criteria, which comprised children between 3-12 years of age, total 123 students were included in the study. A pre structured and pre tested proforma was used to collect the data on general information of the child, anthropometric measurements, physical examination, personal hygiene and clinical examination and blood grouping was done.Results: Out of 123 study participants, 30.9% were found to be malnourished and 35.77% had various morbidity conditions. Out of the 39 students who had malnutrition, 20 students (51.3%) were having grade 1 malnutrition, 15 students (38.5%) were having grade 2 malnutrition and 4 students (10.3%) were having grade 3 malnutrition.Conclusions: It concluded that, balanced diet for all the malnourished children to improve their nutritional status and also for healthy children to maintain their health and nutrition. Grade 3 malnourished children were referred to NRC (nutritional rehabilitation center) to improve their nutritional status.
Practices causing time delay in seeking care for mental illness
Authors: Kandasamy Sunitha , Vijayalakshmi M. , Buhari Abdulrahuman Mohamed
Published: June 2019

Background: Mental health is the foundation for wellbeing and effective functioning for an individual. When people consult clinicians to determine the cause and treatment for such illness, they may also seek answers to questions that medical science can’t answer. Many patients rely on a religious or traditional framework to help answer these questions that often hinder medical treatment and affect its prognosis. This study aim to estimate the practices adopted by the community for cure of mental illness and estimates the time delay that occurred to initiate medical treatment because of these practices.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 103 patients and their caretakers undergoing treatment in the Psychiatry Department of a tertiary care hospital using a semi structured questionnaire. The data collected was analyzed for mean and statistical significance between proportions.Results: Among the 103 patients, 54.4% were males and 45.6% females. 54.3% of patients suffered from psychosis and 45.6% from neurotic illness. About 60.1% of the patients had experienced some form of traditional and religious practices for treating their illness before approaching medical treatment causing an average time delay of 2.6 years to initiate regular medical treatment.Conclusions: The high rate of religious and traditional practices followed by the community for psychiatric illness leads to significant time delay in initiating evidence based management of illness resulting in significant reduction in the quality of life of these patients. Hence mental health awareness initiative at community level and strengthening mental health services at primary care level is the need of the hour.
Study of tobacco and alcohol consumption among students of a medical college in a city of Maharashtra
Authors: Gaikwad Arvind V. , Priya Rashmi , Dhande Vishal S. , Doibale Mohan K.
Published: June 2019

Background: Over the years, substance use has increased drastically in every section of the society. Tobacco and alcohol consumption in medical fraternity is quite common. The objectives of the study were to find out the prevalence of tobacco and alcohol consumption in medical students and to find out various reasons to start these habits.Methods: It was a cross-sectional study conducted in Government Medical College, Aurangabad during September to November 2018. Study was conducted amongst undergraduate MBBS students. Taking prevalence as 47%, allowable error 10% and 10% non-respondents the sample size comes as 85. By lottery method, third year medical students were selected randomly for the study. Completed data from 120 students were included in the study. Pre-designed semi-structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Trial version of SPSS software was used for statistical analysis.Results: In the present study, overall prevalence of substance use among undergraduate MBBS students was found to be 52.5% out of which 61.6% were males and 29.4% were females. Peer pressure was the main reason of continuing the habit (93.2%). 66% of these substance users showed willingness to quit the habit.Conclusions: High prevalence of tobacco and alcohol consumption was observed among undergraduate medical students.
A prevalence study of ocular manifestations in HIV positive patients on highly active anti-retroviral therapy
Authors: Hothi Hemal S. , Gohil Neepa R. , Parekh Nilesh V. , Patel Sagar S.
Published: June 2019

Background: Among 40 million cases worldwide, 50-75% of patients have at least one ocular manifestation in their lifetime. Many of ocular infections are treatable with therapeutic agents. Ocular manifestations invariably reflect systemic disease and can be the initial manifestations of HIV in many cases. Understanding of ocular sequel of HIV infection can lead to the early diagnosis and effective treatment. This study emphasizes on the need of developing a specific ophthalmic examination for the management of ocular manifestations in HIV infected patients.Methods: Cross sectional and observational study of 100 HIV positive participants on HAART were done irrespective of presence or absence of ocular symptoms. Participants were examined for complete ocular examination. Prevalence find out using chi-square test, find p values and ensuring statistical significance.Results: In our study, prevalence of ocular manifestation in HIV positive patients receiving HAART was 39%. Out of them, 20% adnexal involvement, 28% anterior segment involvement, 33% posterior segment involvement, 11% neuro-ophthalmic abnormality, 4% orbital involvement were present. 76% patients belonged to WHO clinical stage 2 and 3. 51% had CD4+ T cell counts <200 cells/µl.Conclusions: Posterior segment followed by anterior segment are the most commonly encountered ocular manifestations of HIV infection. Low CD4 count is good predictor for ocular manifestations in HIV positive patients. Higher WHO stage is also directly related with the severity of the ocular symptoms. Routine baseline ophthalmic screening to all HIV positive patients are necessary to prevent ocular morbidity.
A cross sectional study on social media usage and health status among under graduate medical students studying in Government medical college Telangana
Authors: Munnaji V. Mavatkar
Published: June 2019

Background: Today utilization of social media has become an integral part of young population. India is on the hike for development and internet has been the center point of that. Thus finding the current status is necessary.Methods: The design of the study was cross sectional observational study. Sample size of the study was 140 students from second year MBBS. The place of study was at Government Medical College, Telangana. The subject of the study was second year MBBS students. The study period was from November 2018 to January 2019. Study tool was standard social media addiction scale and a pre-tested semi structured questionnaire.Results: Total number of participants was 138. Amongst the social media users out of 136 about 88 (63.76%) students were found to be mild social media addict and about 50 (36.23%) students were found to be moderately social media addict. Most common physical symptom observed in social media users overall was disturbance in sleep, i.e., 13.2%.Conclusions: In today’s world were internet has become the basic need for growth of science and technology, it has also encroached on to the routine daily activity thus inhibiting the performance of the student by affecting him physically and psychologically.
Assessment of nutritional status of primary school children by anthropometry in rural field practice area of Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore
Authors: Aramani Anita , Kumar Saurabh , Prabhu Sudhir , Acharya Das
Published: June 2019

Background: Malnutrition in the primary school children is one of important problems in India with long term ramifications.  This may be related to faulty dietary habits, socioeconomic condition of the family etc. Malnutrition especially undernourishment can lead to delay in growth and development. Anthropometric assessment of the school children provides the information regarding the nutritional status. The objectives of the study were to find out the prevalence of undernourishment, overweight and obesity in the primary school children of the rural field practice area; to find out the association of socio-demographic variables with nutritional status.Methods: Cross sectional study was conducted from November 2013- February 2014 to assess the nutritional status of the primary school children of the rural field practice areas of our institution in Thumbay region of Dakshina Kannada.Results: The prevalence of undernourishment (thinness and severe thinness) and overweight and obesity was found to be 40.5%, 2.8% and 1.3% respectively. It was also found that significantly higher proportion of male students was having severe thinness compared to females.Conclusions: The present study showed that undernourishment (thinness) was still a problem in the rural area school children.
Trend of clients attending an integrated councelling and testing centre of a tertiary care hospital in North Karnataka: a record based study
Authors: Nayak Rakesh K. , Kulkarni Raghavendra D. , Ajantha Ganavalli S.
Published: June 2019

Background: The prevalence of HIV among the adult population has continued a steady decline at the national level from an estimated peak of 0.4% in 2000 down to 0.26% in 2015. The data generated by ICTC may provide important clues to understand the epidemiology of the disease in a specific area, as well as pattern of risk behavior of the population.Methods: The present retrospective record based cross sectional study was carried out at the ICTC Centre of SDM College of Medical Sciences and Hospital, Dharwad. Retrospective data for the past six years (2012-13 to 2017-18) on clients visiting the ICTC was collected from the ICTC registers.Results: A total of 45,066 clients attended the ICTC over a period of 6 years, among which 61.6% were females and 38.4% were males. Among the total females, 55% were antenatal mothers. Out of the total clients tested, 99.75% of clients underwent post-test counseling. Among the total clients, 669 were HIV sero-positive clients out of which majority (61.7%) were males. The total positivity rate was 1.48% among the ICTC attendees. 47 clients had co-infections with TB.Conclusions: The challenge is to increase access to and uptake of HIV testing priority. Intense IEC activities for behaviour change at grass root level populations should be encouraged.
Knowledge regarding diarrhoea prevention and its management and its determinants among mothers of under 5 age children in urban area of Sangareddy, Telangana
Authors: Abida Humera , Gilla Sravanthi
Published: June 2019

Background: Diarrhoea is the second leading cause of death in children under five years of age, and is responsible for killing around 5,25,000 children every year. A major determinant of child health is the health and knowledge of the mother. So the knowledge, attitude and health practices of the mothers directly reflect on the health and vitality of the child.Methods: A community based cross sectional type of study was conducted among mothers who had children of 0-5 years of age using pre designed, pretested structured questionnaire. Study area was 5 urban slum pockets in Tertiary care hospital of Sangareddy, Telangana. 255 mothers were selected for the study using random sampling technique.Results: Out of the total 255 study populations most of the mothers were literate, living in nuclear families belonging to Hindu religion. About half of the mothers had knowledge regarding diarrhoea and 71.4% of the mothers have given hospital treatment for it. When asked about 78.4% of mothers told that they follow preventive health practices. Majority of mothers had a good knowledge regarding steps to be taken by health care facility during diarrheal attack.Conclusions: On the basis of the present study, there was a significant association of knowledge regarding diarrhoea with maternal literacy and socio economic status. This study brought out the health seeking behaviour of mothers of under five children.
Morbidity pattern in the school going adolescent girls of rural and urban Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Dabas Nitisha , Prakash Shiv , Parveen Khurshid , Singh Richa
Published: June 2019

Background: Adolescence is an intermediary phase from childhood to adulthood and is a very delicate phase of life. WHO has defined Adolescence as the period between 10-19 years of life. Among adolescents, girls constitute a more vulnerable group, particularly in developing countries, where they are traditionally married at an early age and are exposed to greater risk of reproductive morbidity and mortality. Nutritional deficiency disorders (stunting, wasting), menstrual disorders, mental health problems etc. appear as serious problem during this stage. The study was done with objective to assess the morbidity pattern in school going adolescent girls in Urban and Rural Prayagraj.Methods: A school based cross-sectional study was carried out in Prayagraj district. Study participants were 800 adolescent girls, 400 urban and 400 rural of age groups 10–19 years studying in class 6th to 12th. The data was collected by using predesigned, pretested, semi structured questionnaire and analyzed by using SPSS 21.0 version.Results: It was observed that most prevalent morbidity in rural and urban school going adolescent girls were dysmenorrhoea 381 (47.6%), pallor 296 (37%), psychological problems 325 (40.6%) and ocular diseases 191 (23.8%). Other morbidities were hypertension, dental problems, overweight/obesity, skin diseases, ear diseases, respiratory diseases, gastrointestinal diseases and injury.Conclusions: Out of 800 study participants, 275 adolescent girls were having morbidity. Significant difference in proportion of morbidities was found among rural and urban adolescent girls with ear diseases, eye diseases, pallor, dysmenorrhoea, overweight/obesity and hypertension.
Assessment of training need and training efficacy for national program for prevention and control of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke among medical officers of West Bengal, India
Authors: Saha Indrajit , Mitra Satabdi , Chatterjee Ananta , Mukhopadhyay Jyotishman , Chatterjee Chitra
Published: June 2019

Background: The national program for prevention and control of cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke (NPCDCS) has been rolled out in West Bengal, with its implementation initiated through state-wide training of Medical Officers (M.O). For attaining requisite competency for meeting NPCDCS objectives, MOs have been trained at their respective district levels. Present study aimed to assess the training need, training efficacy and need for further training.Methods: A repeat cross-sectional study was conducted from May-July 2018 for M.Os of six randomly chosen districts of West Bengal, out of those whereat NPCDCS was launched in first phase. 40-45 M.Os were randomly selected from each district in liaison with district level health authorities. The total sample size was 352 with Finite population correction. On the days of training, pre and post training surveys were conducted with an identical semi-structured, pre-tested and validated questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha >0.8) covering different levels of cognitive domain, with a maximum possible score of 100 marks. No negative marking was done for incorrect responses. Training was imparted by the Principal Investigator (accredited trainer). Ethical clearance was granted by the State Health Directorate. Informed consent from each participant was obtained.Results: Dependent sample t-test revealed significant increment (p<0.0001) in post-test scores (t=63.134) & one-way repeated measure general linear model (GLM) also revealed F=29.617 (p<.0001). The “Effect Size” was classified as “Huge” (Cohen’s D=63.134/√(352)= 3.365), as was noted between pre-test and post-test scores, based on Cohen’s convention and Sawilowsky’s addition. It was further noted that even after six hour training sessions there was 27.44% knowledge gap (p<0.0001) after adjusting for Bonferroni.Conclusions: Imperativeness of training coupled with periodic refresher training has been established as a pre-requisite for successful implementation of NPCDCS.
An observational study to assess the knowledge and attitude of medical students regarding hand washing
Authors: Saxena Shashi , Mishra Saurabh , Khan Huma
Published: June 2019

Background: Hand hygiene is a milestone in the field of infectious disease control. Promotion of improved hand hygiene has been recognized as an important public health measure. Therefore hand washing is being promoted in various ways. This study has been conducted to assess the level of knowledge and attitude regarding hand hygiene practices amongst the medical students to identify areas of gaps in their knowledge, attitude and practices.Methods: This is a cross sectional study conducted among medical undergraduates of a private medical college in western Utter Pradesh. A pre tested questionnaire with multiple choice questions was used for collection of data.Results: A total of 246 MBBS students participated in the study out of which 50.4 % students were male and rest were female. 78.5% participants were belonging to the age group 19-21 years. Students have good knowledge of hand washing irrespective of their educational front.Conclusions: The results of our study are fairly good still a proper training program is required to generate awareness among the community. Maintenance of hand hygiene should be a part of our education system at primary level.