bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Potential Ferrous Metal Lathe Waste as A Raw Material of LiFePO4
Authors: Rahayu Valiana Mugi , Pradana Reynaldi Virgiawan Rifki , Fahroni Yudi Eka , Putra Muhamad Iqbal , Yudha Cornelius Satria , Purwanto Agus
Published: August 2021

Lathe waste is one of the wastes products of metal processing in the metal-turning industry. The most content of lathe waste is a ferrous (Fe) metal, which, if disposed of into the environment, can cause environmental pollution. Fe metal from lathe waste can be used as a Fe precursor in LiFePO4 synthesis. The extraction of Fe from the lathe waste can be done by the leaching method using acid as the leaching agent. The recovered compounds have great potential to be used as Fe precursors for the LiFePO4 synthesis. The selection of leaching agent was based on considerations of the price, the effectiveness of Fe extraction, and the advanced recovery process from Fe extraction. The LiFePO4 synthesis process can be carried out using co-precipitation, hydrothermal, and sol-gel. LiFePO4 material characterization was carried out to test the yield of the material produced. Synthesized materials were done to test the characteristics by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD) analysis. SEM analysis aims to describe the shape and particle size of the material in three dimensions. Meanwhile, XRD analysis aims to characterize the material's crystal structure and crystal size by using the Lattice Parameter value. The electrochemical test aims to test electrochemistry to test the capacity of charge/discharge, efficiency, and lithium-ion batteries' stability. The resulting battery capacity from the three methods is close to the theoretical capacity of LiFePO4, which is 170 mAh/g.
Biocontrol Delivery System of Trichoderma harzianum Formulated in Graphite and Silica Nano Particles to Control Rhizoctonia solani on Tomato Plants
Authors: Hersanti Hersanti , Rizkie Lilian , Suryani Santi , Djaya Luciana , Joni I Made
Published: August 2021

This paper reports the performance of a graphite and silica nanoparticles-based delivery system for T. harzianum in controlling the in vitro growth of R. solani and damping-off disease on tomato plants. The in vitro and in vivo experiments were arranged in the randomized complete block design. The in vitro treatment was a dual culture of R. solani and T. harzianum in the various components of formulation on PDA, i.e., T. harzianum + 5 wt.% graphite, T. harzianum + 1wt.% silica NPs., T. harzianum + 5 wt.% graphite + 1 wt.% silica nanoparticles, T. harzianum, 5 wt.% graphite, 1 wt.% silica nanoparticles, fungicide (mancozeb), and a control. The in vivo treatment included the application of T. harzianum in the same compositions as the in vitro treatment, except that there were two controls i.e., inoculated and noninoculated tomato plants with R. solani. T. harzianum by soaking tomato seeds in the formulation suspensions before planting. The results showed that all formulation compositions were able to inhibit the in vitro growth of R. solani. The inhibitions of the colony growth of R. solani caused by formulated and non-formulated T. harzianum were the same. This proved that graphite and silica NPs did not resist to the ability of T. harzianum in controlling R. solani, indicated that the formulation was promising to develop. However, the inhibition of damping-off disease incidence on tomato plants caused by formulated T. harzianum was the same as the non-formulated one only on day 7 after treatments. On days 14, 21, and 28, the inhibitions were lower than the non-formulated ones. It was suggested to reapply the formulation of T. harzianum in the soil at planting and several days after.
Hepatoprotective activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Cissampelos pareira linn. leaves against CCl4 -induced acute and chronic hepatotoxicity
Authors: Asif Mohammad , Dwivedi Jayesh , Yadav Sandeep , Kala Chandra
Published: August 2021

Background and objective

Cissampelos pareira L. is a medicinal plant distributed across the tropics and used across the world traditionally for curing various pathological conditions. Hence, the present study has been carried out to evaluate the hepatoprotective effect of hydroalcoholic extract of C. pareira L.

Materials and methods

C. pareira L. leaves were extracted with a hydroalcoholic solvent. The resulting extract was subjected to an acute oral toxicity test on the basis of the OECD 423 guideline. Afterward, the selected dose of C. pareira hydroalcoholic extract (CPHE) was checked for hepatoprotective activity against CCl4-induced acute and chronic hepatotoxicity. Measurements of serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, total bilirubin, and direct bilirubin were performed. At the end of the study, histopathological analysis of livers of the animals of various treatment groups was carried out.

Result and conclusion

Based on the acute oral toxicity study, three doses of CPHE were selected, namely, 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg. Administration of CPHE at 200 and 400 mg/kg prevented an increase in serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase, and bilirubin levels against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity. The histopathological investigation of the portal triad structure of the liver clearly indicated that CPHE at 400 mg/kg showed significantly greater reduction in the necrotized area and normal appearance of the central vein, Kupffer cells and hepatocyte cells with no inflammatory cells. The results indicated that CPHE at 400 mg/kg protected the hepatic cells’ membrane integrity against CCl4-induced hepatotoxicity.
Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis following trans-sphenoidal excision of pituitary adenoma
Authors: Thombare Piyush R , Nadkarni Viraj T. , Balasubramaniam Srikant
Published: August 2021

A 52-year-old female diagnosed to harbour a non-functioning pituitary adenoma underwent trans-sphenoidal excision of the tumour. On the 8th post-operative day, the patient developed severe headaches and had an episode of generalised convulsion. Post-ictally, the patient was drowsy, irritable, apahasic and developed right-sided hemiparesis. Computed tomography of the brain revealed a left parietal venous infarct. Magnetic resonance venography confirmed thrombosis of the straight sinus, left transverse sinus, left sigmoid sinus, left internal jugular vein and cortical veins in the left high parietal region. The patient's thrombophilia profile was positive only for heterozygous Factor V Leiden mutation. The patient was treated conservatively with anticonvulsants and low-molecular-weight heparin. The patient recovered completely within a week and was discharged. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis (CVST) has been rarely reported in the post-operative period following trans-sphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenoma. Early diagnosis and treatment of CVST is necessary for a favourable outcome.
Pseudo-hyperdense MCA sign
Authors: Krishnan Prasad
Published: August 2021

Hyperdense middle cerebral artery (MCA) sign is a well-recognised sign of stroke radiology. However, less often reported is the pseudo 'hyperdense MCA sign' that looks ominous and may confound the clinician into thinking that he is dealing with a case of ischaemic stroke. We report a 56-year-old male who nearly underwent thrombolysis due to this sign seen on initial computed tomography imaging and highlight the way to avoid this pitfall.
Assessment of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding travel health among (King Abdulaziz) international airport travelers in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia 2019
Authors: Alkadi Wardah , Salih Sarah , Al Darbi Mohammed
Published: August 2021

Background:

Travelers to different countries have endemic/pandemic diseases can increase the risk of exposure to various infectious agents and can facilitate their spread across borders.

Objectives:

To determine the levels of travel health knowledge, attitudes and practices among travelers at international airports of KSA.

Methods:

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted starting from 30 September, 2019 at the departure halls of King Abdulaziz International airport (KAIA). Representative sample adult travelers who were waiting to board were recruited.

Results and Discussion:

Good level of knowledge regarding travel health was observed among 28.2%. The majority of the participants (84.7%) got information about their destination prior to the trip. The main reported source of information was family/friends (53.8%). Negative health seeking behavior was observed among 70.8% of the participants. Purpose of the trip and duration of destination were significantly associated with health seeking behavior. Knowledge, attitude towards health information seeking behavior and practice-related to travel health among international travelers at King Abdulaziz International airport are insufficient.
Comparison of knowledge and skills of Home-Based Newborn Care (HBNC) among Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and health workers (SAKHI) of Ambuja Cement Foundation
Authors: Phatak Ajay Gajanan , Nimbalkar Somashekhar M. , Prabhughate Abhijit S. , Mahajani Anagha A. , Bansal Satvik C.
Published: August 2021

Context:

Ambuja Cement Foundation (ACF) started replicating the famous “Gadchiroli” model to reduce neonatal mortality in Chandrapur in 2005. ACF conducted the Home-Based Newborn Care (HBNC) model through trained female health workers, viz., “SAKHIs.” In 2008, Government of India introduced community health worker, viz., Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA). ACF withdrew its services steadily and few SAKHIs were hired as ASHAs.

Aims:

We assessed and compared the knowledge level and skills of trained ASHA workers with SAKHIs in providing HBNC.

Methods and Material:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in three blocks of Chandrapur district of Maharashtra, India. A structured questionnaire consisting of 34 questions was used for knowledge assessment and checklists assessed hand washing, weight recording, temperature recording, kangaroo mother care (KMC) position, suction and bag and mask ventilation (BMV) skills on manikins.

Results:

135 healthcare workers participated. The mean (SD) score of current SAKHIs (23.89 (1.9) was significantly higher than former SAKHIs (currently ASHAs) (17.97 (2.92), former SAKHIs (currently not engaged in HBNC) (16.73 (2.95) and ASHAs not worked as SAKHIs in the past (16.19 (3.19) [all P < 0.001]. Similar trend was seen in all skill sets. The skills of ASHAs not worked as SAKHIs previously were abysmal, with no ASHA being able to perform BMV and KMC skills, and only 4 (7.5%) who could perform suctioning. A typical trend was observed with current SAKHIs faring best followed by former SAKHIS (currently ASHAs), former SAKHIs (currently not in HBNC), and ASHAs not worked as SAKHIs faring worst.

Conclusion:

The skills and knowledge of ASHA workers are far deficient compared to SAKHIs despite similar training components, potentially hampering neonatal mortality reduction. Quality of training and supportive supervision mechanism of ASHAs should be explored.
Infant and young child feeding (IYCF) practices and their determinants in two Urban districts of India
Authors: Bansal Satvik C. , Odedra Rahul , Talati Kandarp , Morgaonkar Vallaree A. , Shinde Mayur , Nimbalkar Somashekhar M.
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

It is essential to maintain optimal nutrition during the early years of life when the growth rate is maximum.

Aims and Objectives:

Our study investigated the prevalence of various feeding practices. We also explored their association with different sociodemographic, biomedical variables, and childhood morbidity.

Methodology:

This was a cross-sectional community-based study. Data were collected through a questionnaire-based survey of mothers of school-going children aged 2–6 years in the districts of Anand and Vadodara, Gujarat.

Results:

A total of 367 mothers participated in the study. About 78% of the mothers did early initiation of breastfeeding within 1 h of birth, and 68% gave colostrum to the newborn. Around 30% of the mothers practiced bottle feeding, and 25% gave prelacteal feeds. Most mothers received good family support for breastfeeding (93.73%). On univariate analysis, we found the following associations of feeding practices—breastfeeding initiation with the gender of the baby (P value—0.006) and type of delivery (P value < 0.001); the duration of exclusive breastfeeding with the time difference between two deliveries (P value—0.027) and maternal age (P value—0.004); prelacteal feeds with the type of delivery (P value—0.034); feeding difficulty with the time difference between two deliveries (P value < 0.001) and breastfeeding at night with maternal education (P value—0.002). The time of the initiation of breastfeeding was associated with cough and cold episodes. No other association was found between breastfeeding variables and health indicators.

Conclusion:

Maternal age, maternal education, the time difference between two deliveries, the type of delivery, and gender of the baby were significantly associated with different Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices. Identifying these factors might help in the development of strategies for optimizing feeding practices.
Budd-Chiari syndrome in small hepatic veins
Authors: Sultana Emiko , Hasan M. Tasdik , Mahmood Hassan Rushekh , Ansar Adnan , Podder Vivek , Emrul Khan , Ali Md. Yusuf
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Budd-Chiari syndrome (BCS) is a rare condition affecting one in a million adults. BCS involves outflow obstruction in the hepatic venous system, which can occur anywhere between the small hepatic veins and the atrio-caval junction and cannot be due to heart, pericardial, or hepatic veno-occlusive disease.

Case Presentation:

We report an exceedingly rare form of BCS with less common initial clinical features in a young poor adult male patient which ignited a diagnostic uncertainty and a therapeutic challenge. The presence of the classical triad of BCS in the absence of major hepatic vein obstruction prompted the medical team to consider that the patient had a rare form of BCS. In this case, the financial condition of the patient and limited resources available restricted our ability to advance into the specific investigations. However, the patient was given symptomatic medical treatment and was followed up monthly. We also provided the patient with a statement that reaffirmed our inability to provide affordable surgical management options and called for an optimized national clinical guideline that could help the physicians deal with the challenges.

Conclusion:

An uncommon form of BCS in this patient provided a diagnostic challenge and therapeutic uncertainty in the low-resource settings. Primary care physicians should commence evidenced medical management based on clinical suspicion acknowledging the fact that obstruction of small hepatic veins is often not detected on an ultrasound.
Sociodemographic correlates of abnormal blood profile in tribal districts of Eastern India
Authors: Bhatia Vikas , Parida Swayam Pragyan , Chandanshive Pradnya Dilip
Published: August 2021

Objective:

To assess the correlates of sociodemographic profile with abnormal blood profile in tribal districts of Odisha.

Design:

This was a cross-sectional study. The abnormal blood profile cut-offs were: Random blood sugar >200 mg/dl, Triglycerides >150 mg/dl, and Cholesterol >200 mg/dl.

Setting:

The study was carried out in Daringbadi and Tangi (Choudwar) blocks from Kandhamal and Cuttack district, respectively, in the eastern state of Odisha in India.

Participants:

Data of 2,000 households selected consecutively from 30 villages was collected for persons aged more than 6 years from either block on sociodemographic aspects and food consumption by households. Anthropometric measurements were taken for persons aged 11 years and above. Approximately 10%, that is, 400 households were chosen for blood sample collection for estimation of random blood sugar (RBS) and lipid profile [Serum Triglycerides (TG) and cholesterol] in persons aged 11 years and above.

Results:

The blood reports revealed that out of the total samples collected, 9.2% had elevated RBS, 20.8% had elevated TG, and 8.8% had elevated cholesterol levels overall. The prevalence of elevated RBS, TG, and Cholesterol was 2.3%, 15%, and 5.3%, respectively, in Daringbadi, while in Tangi-Choudwar the elevated markers were 17%, 27.2%, and 12.8% for RBS, TG, and Cholesterol, respectively. Our study found that compared to the Daringbadi block, a significantly higher (P < 0.05) proportion of people from the Tangi-Choudwar block suffered from hyperglycemia (OR = 0.11; 95% CI: 0.06, 0.20), hypertriglyceridemia (OR = 0.47; 95% CI: 0.34, 0.64), and hypercholesterolemia (OR = 0.38; 95% CI: 0.24, 0.59). Hence, it was observed that the population of Daringbadi was 89%, 53%, and 62% less likely to have elevated random blood sugar level, serum triglycerides, and serum cholesterol, respectively, than the population of Tangi-Choudwar block. Overall, the population of Tangi-Choudwar was found to be more predisposed to an abnormal blood profile which might be indicate a less healthy lifestyle and diet in this block as compared to Daringbadi block.

Conclusions:

This study found that the sociodemographic factors influencing lifestyle and diet patterns of a population have an impact on the health of a population. We found that the tribal block which was more developed and had more intake of junk food and sedentary lifestyle similar to urban areas also had a greater proportion of population with an abnormal blood profile as compared to the less-developed tribal block. Hence, health promotion for a healthy lifestyle and diet is needed as a part of national health policy to implement primordial prevention and to prevent the emergence of risk factors from an early age. The frontline health workers and family physicians can play an important role in promoting a healthy lifestyle.
The Prevalence of Child Restraint System Use and Pattern of Child Transportation in Buraidah City
Authors: AlAmmar Hadel F. , Jahan Saulat
Published: August 2021

Background:

The motor vehicle crash (MVC) is a major cause of injuries and deaths among children worldwide. The child restraint system (CRS) is designed to protect children from injury and death if passengers are involved in MVC.

Objectives:

To determine the prevalence of CRS use for children aged 5 years and below and to explore the pattern of child transportation inside cars in Buraidah, Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire distributed among parents attending primary healthcare centers. Simple random sampling was used to select 330 participants. The survey was conducted from January to March 2020.

Results:

A total of 135 (40.9%) respondents had CRS available in their cars, and only 51 (15.5%) participants reported using it ‘always’. Child discomfort, difficulty in handling CRS, and being unaware of CRS importance were the commonly reported reasons of not using CRS. The most common practiced mode of transportation, in case of not using CRS, was seating the child in the front seat on an adult lap. Twenty-eight (8.2%) respondents experienced a MVC while driving with a child; half (53.6%) of these were not using CRS at the time of the accident. Less than half (47.1%) of the participants were aware of the CRS law in Saudi Arabia.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of using CRS is low. Creating awareness among parents and strict implementation of the CRS law can lead to increase in the use of CRS which will lead to prevention of traffic-related injuries and deaths among children.
The need for a Smart Phone Application to Facilitate Communication Between Deaf-Mute and Hearing-Impaired Patients and Dentists
Authors: Alkadhi Omar H. , Abdulrahman Baraa I. , Alhawas Shiama A. , Almanie Leen A. , Alsalmi Haifa E. , Aljumah Asayil A.
Published: August 2021

Objective:

This study aims to determine the difficulty of communication between deaf-mute and hearing-impaired individuals, and their dentists and the need for an application to facilitate communication.

Materials and methods:

This is a cross-sectional study. A self-reported questionnaire was distributed among individuals with hearing disability. We measured demographic data, deaf-mute and hearing-impaired patients experience at the dental office, their interest and ability to use modern means of communication, and their willingness to use smartphones, tablets or computers to communicate with their dentists. Fisher's Exact test was used to determine association between different variables with cut-off point (P < 0.05).

Results:

58.5% of individuals with deafness or hearing impairment have visited dental offices. 51% of individuals reported they could not understand their dentists during visits. 45.3% stated that their complaints were understood. 30.2% of the information given by dentists were clear to them and only 24.5% of individuals were given all necessary information. 73.58% of all individuals are willing to use mobile applications to facilitate communication if recommended by their dentists.

Conclusions:

Many individuals with hearing disability are facing difficulties in communication in the dental office. The majority of them are willing to use a mobile application to help them communicate better with their dentists.
National sample surveys show poor households face catastrophic expenditure for oral healthcare services in India
Authors: Prasad Banuru Muralidhara , Tripathy Jaya Prasad , Bera Om Prakash , Shanbhag Namita
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Globally people pay out-of-pocket (OOP) to access Oral healthcare services. In India, there is limited evidence on estimates of OOP expenditure. We undertook an analysis of national sample survey data on household health care expenditure to understand the expenditure pattern for Oral healthcare services and the catastrophic burden.

Method:

The expenditure reported for Oral healthcare services from two surveys: 71st round and 75th round, published by National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) was extracted. Based on monthly household consumption expenditure three economic groups were made: poor, middle- and rich-income groups. The OOP expenditure pattern while accessing day-care services and hospitalization and in public and private sector and the catastrophic expenditure were analysed.

Results:

A total of 204 and 155 households from two national surveys reported to have accessed day-care Oral services respectively. The median OOP expenditure in public sector remained same at US $ 4 in both surveys. Over 35% of 78 households in 71st round and 42% of 167 in 75th round used public sector hospitalization services. The median expenditure of hospitalization doubled from US$ 58 (IQR 21–263) in 71st round to US $ 125 (IQR 45-363) in 75th round. Households from poor income groups spent seven times more for Oral healthcare services during the recent survey and faced catastrophic expenditure.

Conclusion:

The OOP expenditure for Oral healthcare has significant catastrophic household expenditure among the poor. There is a need to increase investment in public sector and insurance to protect poor against hospitalization expenditure in private sector.
Prevalence of overweight and obesity among school children in Mysuru, Karnataka
Authors: Thomas Usha M , D Narayanappa , MS Sujatha
Published: August 2021

Childhood obesity has become a major public health challenge in developing countries including India due to the changes in the lifestyle and food habits of children owing to the influence of urban culture and technological growth. The present study is a cross-sectional, school-based study conducted to assess the prevalence of obesity and to determine the demographic variables influencing the obesity among school children.

Methods:

The study included 440 students (Boys: 240, Girls: 200) from two randomly selected schools of Mysuru city, Karnataka. WHO Standard Age and Sex specific Growth Reference charts were used for defining overweight and obesity. Modified Kuppuswamy's socioeconomic scale (2019) was adopted to assess the socioeconomic status of the family.

Results:

Obesity prevalence among the study subjects was 3.86% and overweight was 12.27%. The mean body mass index (BMI) among boys was 18.13 and girls was 18.80. The difference in the distribution of BMI between male and female groups was statistically significant (P = 0.023). Age and obesity status of the children was found to have a significant association (P = 0.022). Prevalence of overweight and obesity was more among children from higher socioeconomic class (P = 0.01).

Conclusion:

Prevalence of obesity and overweight among school children is comparatively higher. The higher familial income, dietary patterns, parental history of obesity and diabetes and having urban residence were identified as the major factors which influenced the obesity status of the school children.
A cross-sectional study on oral hygiene among Santhal tribal adults in a rural area of West Bengal
Authors: Haque Hasibur Zaman , Pal Dipak , Sadhukhan Sanjoy Kumar , Das Souvik
Published: August 2021

Context:

Oral health is a key indicator of overall health and wellbeing. Despite adequate medical advancements in global oral health, problems still persist in many communities in India especially in the hard to reach areas of the vulnerable population.

Aims:

This study aimed to assess the oral hygiene status among adults of Santhal tribe in a rural area of West Bengal and to find out the factors associated with their oral hygiene status.

Materials and Methods:

A community-based, cross-sectional study was conducted among adults of Santhal tribe in a rural area of Paschim Bardhhaman district, West Bengal. Data was collected from 103 participants by simple random sampling (without replacement) technique using a predesigned pretested structured schedule. Data analysis was done using Microsoft Excel 2010.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 32.17 ± 12.72 years. Half (50.5%) were female participants. The proportion of poor oral hygiene status was 38.8%. Significant predictors of poor oral hygiene status on univariate logistic regression were age group (P = 0.011), gender (P = 0.013), alcohol consumption (P = 0.001), use of “datun” (P = 0.011), smokeless tobacco (SLT) use (P = 0.000), and both smoking Tobacco (ST)-SLT use (P = 0.000). In multivariable model, “datun” use (P = 0.013), SLT use (P = 0.001), both ST-SLT use (P = 0.004) retained their significant association with poor oral hygiene status.

Conclusion:

The present study findings emphasize on necessity of awareness generation regarding oral hygiene and strategic implementation of essential oral care in tribal communities residing in this area of West Bengal.
Viral characteristics and clinical presentation in dengue co-infection- Findings from a facility based observational study in Odisha, India
Authors: Turuk Jyotirmayee , Palo Subrata K. , Rath Sonalika , Subhadra Subhra , Sabat Jyotsnamayee , Sahoo Prakash K. , Panda Sailendra , Pati Sanghamitra
Published: August 2021

Background:

Dengue has affected many countries globally. Two-fifths part of the world is at risk, which can be affected by dengue disease. In India, the dengue incidence has increased in the recent past and emerged as an important health problem in many states including Odisha. Dengue disease presents with atypical clinical symptoms when associated with other co-infections.

Materials and Methods:

A facility-based longitudinal study was carried out over a period of 1 year to determine the dengue co-infection and its outcome. The suspected cases were clinically assessed following a standard case report format and serological investigations including serotyping were carried out.

Results:

33.6% samples were dengue positive of which 78.5% were positive for NS1 Ag, 26.6% positive for dengue IgM and 5.1% to both. Among the dengue positive cases, 60.9% were male and mean age was 31.52 (±17.03) years. High occurrence of cases was during May to November with maximum in August. Among the 975 dengue positives, 57 (5.8%) were found to have co-infection. Chikungunya was the most common co-infection in 71.9%, followed by herpes simplex (HSV) (7%) and other diseases. Fever was the most common presenting symptom (98.2%), followed by myalgia (91.2%), retro orbital pain (91.2%), pain abdomen (12.3%), rash/lesion (8.8%), burning micturition (5.3%), petechiae (1.7%) and pruritus (1.7%) among the co-infected cases.

Conclusions:

All the four dengue serotypes were found to be circulating with DEN 2 as the most predominant one. About 5.8% of dengue cases have co-infection (mainly with Chikungunya) and clinically present with atypical signs and symptoms.
Profile of multimorbidity in outpatients attending public healthcare settings
Authors: Pati Sanghamitra , Sinha Rajeshwari , Panda Meely , Puri Parul , Pati Sandipana
Published: August 2021

Background:

Multimorbidity, the co-occurrence of two or more long-term conditions (LTC) in individuals, is associated with greater healthcare utilization, expenditure, and premature mortality, thus positing a challenge for patients and healthcare providers. Given its sparsely available epidemiological evidence, we aimed to describe the profile of multimorbidity in a representative sample of public healthcare outpatients in India.

Methods:

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted from 1st July to 31st December 2015 in Odisha, India. Fifteen public healthcare facilities were selected by stratified random sampling. Data was collected from 1,870 adult outpatients attending these settings using Multimorbidity Assessment Questionnaire for Primary Care (MAQ-PC) tool.

Result:

Nearly 3/4th of both women and men outpatients were either obese or overweight. >1/2 had multimorbidity (≥2 LTC) while 1/3rd had ≥3 LTC. Most prevalent condition was hypertension (63%), followed by chronic backache and arthritis. Cancer and psychiatric illness were least reported. Multimorbidity increased with age group, socioeconomic status, and education level. Females across all age groups had higher reported multimorbidity than males. Diabetes--hypertension was frequently occurring dyad. Both physical and mental component of quality of life was reduced in multimorbidity.

Conclusion:

Multimorbidity is becoming a norm in healthcare practice with high prevalence in females and older adults. Health services for non-communicable diseases need to include commonly occurring dyads along with health promotion. Higher prevalence in females reinforces the need to incorporate gender differences while studying multimorbidity. Analysis of multimorbidity epidemiology through an equity lens could illuminate the underpinning complexities and heterogeneities of this phenomenon.
A cross sectional study to assess tobacco use and its correlates among patients attending non-communicable disease clinics of a Northern Jurisdiction in India
Authors: Bhatt Garima , Goel Sonu , Grover Sandeep , Kaur Nirlep , Singh Sandeep
Published: August 2021

Background:

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) continue to rise unabated globally and the existing evidence has unequivocally established the relationship between tobacco use and NCDs. In 2010 the Government of India (GOI) introduced NCD clinics under the National Program for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardio Vascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) with the purpose of preventing and combating the NCD epidemic. This study was undertaken with an objective to comprehensively determine tobacco use and its correlates among patients attending these NCD clinics.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out among 1172 patients attending NCD clinics at district level, in Punjab, India between May to October 2018. Using systematic sampling every fourth patient was interviewed and equal numbers of visits were made to both the clinics.

Results:

Overall, the current tobacco use in any form was reported to be 10.2% among the study respondents. Majority of the tobacco users were males (23.3%), in 40–49 year age group, (18.7%), residing in urban area (15%), educated up to secondary school (18%) and non-government occupation bracket (27.4%) and hypertension disease category (41.6%). More SLT users had thought of quitting in past in comparison to smokers (46.6% vs 40%) and had higher quit attempts in past (42.5% vs 38.3%). In the binary logistic regression analysis, odds of tobacco use increased with increasing age, three times higher among participants who were employed (OR 3.75; CI 1.41-10.02),6 times higher in COPD disease category (OR 6.88; CI 2.1-20.59).

Conclusion:

Higher tobacco use among the NCD clinic attendees with increasing age predisposes them to develop grave complications. This calls for the need to administer intensive behaviour change interventions for tobacco cessation at the existing NCD clinics. This could further strengthen existing health systems and thereby improving health outcomes followed by achieving Sustainable Development Goals.
Burden of malnutrition among school-going children in a slum area of Kolkata
Authors: Bhattacharyya Madhumita , Roy Soumit , Sarkar Asim , Sinha Rabindra N. , Mallick Ashok K. , Bandyopadhyay Sayanti
Published: August 2021

Background:

Malnutrition is still a great barrier to the growth and development of children, especially in India. Children from the underprivileged sections of the society like slum children are more vulnerable to both undernutrition and overnutrition. This study aimed to estimate the magnitude of malnutrition among school-going children in a slum area of Kolkata and to elicit the association of nutritional status with parental education.

Methods:

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from November 2017 to May 2018 among 508 school-going children of 6 years to 19 years of age in slums of Chetla, Kolkata. Out of three coeducation high schools catering to those children, two schools were randomly selected. 254 participants from each school were selected using systematic random sampling. Students, unwilling to participate and/or whose parents denied providing informed written consent were excluded. After the interview by a predesigned, pretested schedule, their anthropometric examination was conducted.

Results:

Prevalence of stunting and severe stunting was present in 9.4% and 1.2% of subjects whereas the prevalence of thinness was 23.6% among them. The prevalence of overnutrition was 11%. Boys are more stunted (OR = 2.13, P = 0.013) and thin (OR = 1.73, P = 0.011) than girls. Poor parental education was significantly associated with both undernourishment (stunting and thinness) as well as overweight and obesity.

Conclusion:

Substantial burden of double malnutrition was observed among school-going slum children. Parental education had an important role to prevent malnutrition of their children. Thus, periodic growth monitoring with the strengthening of the Mid-Day Meal program and awareness generation campaigns regarding malnutrition among parents of slum children are highly needed.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among healthcare workers in a teaching hospital in Eastern India
Authors: Mishra Baijayantimala , Behera Bijayini , Singh Arvind K. , Mohapatra Prasanta R. , Patro Binod K. , Panigrahi Manoj K. , Pillai Jawahar S.K. , Barik Sadanand , Mahapatra Ashoka , Mohanty Srujana , Hallur Vinaykumar , Gupta Kavita , Batmanabane Gitanjali
Published: August 2021

Statement of the Problem:

Healthcare workers (HCW) are the most vulnerable group for contracting SARS-CoV-2. Assessment of seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among HCW, thus can provide important data on pathogen exposure, infectivity, and adherence to personal protective equipment (PPE). The present study aimed at assessing SARS-CoV-2 seroprevalence among HCW and exploring associations with demographics, category of exposure to COVID-19 patients, preventive measures taken and relation with COVID-19 symptoms.

Method of Study:

HCWs with a minimum gap 2 weeks from last duty were eligible to participate in the study. The enrolled HCW were categorized into high-risk and low-risk category based on work in COVID-19 areas. HCWs SARS-CoV-2 specific IgG and IgM antibodies were detected using rapid immunochromatography test.

Results:

Out of 821 randomly selected HCWs, either IgM or IgG antibody was detected in 32 HCWs (32/821, 3.9%). Only IgM antibodies were detected in 14 (1.7%), only IgG was detected in 9 (1.0%), and both IgM and IgG antibodies were present in 9 HCWs. Seropositivity was significantly higher in high-risk category (5.7% vs. 2.2.%), HCWs who ever had COVID-19 related symptoms in last 3 months (5.6% vs. 2.8%), and those who had earlier tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 with real-time reverse transcriptase PCR (36.6% vs. 3.5%). Seroprevalence was highest (6.9%) among housekeeping and sanitation staff.

Conclusions:

Overall, low seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in our HCWs is an indicator of effective infection control practice. HCW posted in dedicated COVID ward need more stringent implementation of infection prevention measures.
Impact of COVID-19 on the patients' income and work in Delhi, India
Authors: Chandra Ankit , Sarda Radhika , Kumar Arvind , Bir Megha , Parija Pragyan Paramita , Pal Aishee , Sinha Sanjeev , H Vikas , Wig Naveet
Published: August 2021

Background:

Currently, there is no data on the impact of COVID-19 on patients' income and work in India.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study at a tertiary hospital in New Delhi. We included all the patients who were ≥18 years of age and consecutively diagnosed with COVID-19 between the 1st of May 2020 to 31st July 2020. Patients were interviewed by a physician using a semi-structure questionnaire. Data were collected on socio-economic status, occupation, income loss, leaves taken, decrease in work efficiency (self-perceived) and about-facing any stigma/discrimination at the workplace.

Results:

Out of 245 patients, 190 patients were employed. A total of 126 patients (66.3%) self-reported their work was affected due to COVID-19 disease. A total of 30.5% of patients (n = 58/190) reported deduction in their salary. The median amount of salary loss was INR 10,000 (IQR 9000–25000). Decrease in income and work efficiency (self-perceived) was found to be 37.3% (n = 71) and 12.1% (n = 23), respectively. A total of 47 patients (37.3%) took personal leaves (median number – 17 days (IQR 14–25), and discrimination/stigma related to the COVID-19 at the workplace was faced by 22.6% of patients.

Conclusion:

Income and work of a substantial number of patients was affected due to COVID-19, as there was a decrease in income and work efficiency. Patients also had to take personal leaves and face stigma in the workplace. This will inform the policymakers to formulate strategies to mitigate the impact of COVID-19.
Dietary habits, diversity, and predictors among pregnant women attending primary health care centers for antenatal care in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Olatona Foluke A. , Olowu Olusimisola J. , Goodman Olayinka O. , Amu Eyitope O.
Published: August 2021

Background and Aim:

Inadequate nutrition during fetal development resulting from poor dietary habits leads to reprogramming within fetal tissues and poses as a risk factor for non-communicable diseases in later life. This study was conducted to determine the dietary habits, diversity, and predictors among pregnant women in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire to obtain data from pregnant women attending primary health care centers in Lagos, Nigeria. A multistage sampling method was used to select 350 pregnant women. A food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the dietary habits while dietary diversity was measured using non-quantifiable 24-hour recall. Data were analyzed using Epi-Info version 7.2 computer software. Chi-square and t-test were used to test for associations and P value < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

Only 16.7% of respondents consumed five servings of fruits and vegetables daily while the rice was the most frequent meal taken (45.4%). Meat was the commonest animal protein (20.3%) and only 30.8% had a high dietary diversity score (DDS). High DDS was significantly associated with parity of 1–3, living in a duplex or detached house, completion of at least secondary school education, and highly skilled professionals.

Conclusion:

Healthy dietary habits and high DDS were low and associated with low parity and higher socio-economic status. Nutrition intervention that encourages higher dietary diversity is needed especially among women of higher parity and lower socioeconomic status in Lagos.
Model of care knowledge among Riyadh First Health Cluster staff at the Ministry of Health, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alomari Naif A. , Alshehry Bandar , Alenazi Anwar H. , Selaihem Ahmed , AlQumaizi Khalid , Almishary Mishary , Elshinnawey Mohamed A. M. , Alsuwayt Saleh S. , AlHadlaq Razan K.
Published: August 2021

Purpose:

This study assessed “model of care” (MoC) knowledge among Riyadh First Health Cluster (C1) staff (health workers and admin) at Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Health (MOH).

Methods:

This study is cross-sectional, observational, and analytic. Raw data were collected from the data warehouse of the Vision Realization Office (VRO) at the MOH. It was then entered into SPSS, Version 24, and 3,696 individuals were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were presented as numbers and percentages, and a Chi-square test was used to test for associations. The study was approved by the hospital research committee and the Institutional Review Board (HlRI-15-Dec l9-01).

Results:

The staff who knew of the transformation occurring in the healthcare sector were 98.2% male and 93.6% female (P < .001). The staff having more than 20 years of experience represented the highest level of understanding (44.4%). In contrast, a team with 0–1 years of experience had the lowest level of understanding (13.6%) (P < .001). However, the staff with 0–1 years of experience was associated with the highest agreement percentages (93.4%, 92.2%) while the staff with more than 20 years of experience was associated with a lower agreement of percentages (88.2%, 79.1%) (P < .001). Finally, we found pharmacists and primary healthcare centers to generally have the highest knowledge percentages across the studied dimensions (P < .001).

Conclusion:

The C1 staff who participated in this study had good knowledge of Saudi Arabia's MoC. We recommend future elaborating research about the Saudi MoC to compare in detail with the staff in the other sectors and reach an international benchmark.
Assessment of oral health status and treatment needs amongst the tribals residing in Northern Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Authors: Kumar Gunjan , Rai Shilpa , Jalaluddin Mohammad , Tripathi Ranjan M. , Bagchi Anandamoy , Tiwari Rahul
Published: August 2021

Introduction:

Odisha has the third highest percentage of tribal population in India. This study was conducted to evaluate the oral health status and treatment needs of tribal population residing in northern Bhubaneswar.

Material and Methods:

A crosssectional household survey was conducted using the modified WHO Oral Health Assessment Form (2013). Cluster random sampling technique was employed. Type III clinical examination was done. Statistical analysis was carried out using Chi square test, t test and ANOVA.

Results:

A total of 877 participants were examined out of which 589 were males and 288 females with age ranging from 2–74 years. The mean dmft score was 4.13 ± 0.73 in 2–5-year-old participants, and in the age groups of 35–44 years and 65–74 years, the scores were 5.32 ± 2.36 and 7.56 ± 4.29 respectively. Statistically significant differences were observed in the presence of healthy gums, bleeding gums and presence of shallow pockets across the different age groups. Preventive treatment was required mostly by the participants in the age group 13-15 years.

Conclusion:

The present study showed a high prevalence of dental caries and periodontal disease among the study participants. Preventive treatment was required mostly by the participants in the age group 13-15 years.
Prevalence and risk factors of abdominal hernia among Saudi population
Authors: Mahfouz Mohammad Eid M. , Al-juaid Raghad Sami
Published: August 2021

Objective:

Studies assessing prevalence and risk factors of abdominal hernia are scarce in Saudi Arabia, that is why this study aimed to find out the prevalence and risk factors of abdominal hernia among the Saudi Population in 2020.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done on 500 participants. A pre-designed questionnaire included three sections: Section A consisted of sociodemographic, Section B had items for three dimensions: pain at the site of the hernia or the hernia repair, restriction of activities, cosmetic discomfort; Section C included medical history and other associated risk factors of hernia.

Results:

The prevalence of abdominal hernia in our study was found to be 38.8%. The participants in 18-25 years had less prevalence (21.2%). participants with BMI >25 (Overweight and Obese) had higher prevalence than others. The mean EuraHS-QoL score in participants who had abdominal hernia was significantly higher than patients who didn't have AH. Age >40 years, male gender, BMI >25, congenital anomalies, history of abdominal surgery, history of abdominal trauma, family history, grand multipara, chronic cough, chronic bronchitis, and smoking were potential predictive factors of AH.

Conclusion:

Abdominal hernia is a common problem in Saudi Arabia. Abdominal hernias are more common in men than women, there is an obvious relationship between obesity, history of abdominal surgery, history of abdominal trauma, family history and hernias. Early diagnosis, easily accessible health facilities and health education are important to prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Doing More with Less
Authors: Dharmalingam Priya , MukundaPai Malathi , Nargund Ashwini , Champaka G , Kavitha B L , Okaly Geeta V Patil , Madhu S D , Arun Kumar A R
Published: August 2021

Background:

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the pediatric age group following infections. Among the diagnostic modalities, fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is increasingly recognized as it permits rapid diagnosis with low cost and complication. In this study, we emphasize the diagnostic value of FNAC and describe the cytomorphological spectrum of tumors diagnosed on FNAC in pediatric patients with or without the aid of ancillary tests.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study included a total of 614 patients under the age of 15 years for whom fine needle aspiration (FNA) was done during a period of 3 years with or without guidance. The cytology smears were reviewed, and the morphological spectrum was analyzed with the ancillary studies.

Results:

Aspirates from children constituted around 3.5% of the total FNAC performed in our Institute. Of the 614 cases, 336 were male, and 278 were female with age under 15 years. Neoplastic cases constituted around 72%, which included benign (2%) and malignant (98%) tumors. The spectrum include hematolymphoid neoplasms in 39.3%, small round cell tumors (SRCT) in 24.9%, Wilms tumor in 9.2%, germ cell tumors in 4.8%, spindle cell neoplasms in 4.8%, hepatoblastoma in 3.2%, and osteosarcoma in 3% of the cases. The metastatic lesions constituted 8.1% of the cases diagnosed by FNA.

Conclusion:

FNA proves to be a reliable and efficien modality in diagnosing pediatric neoplasms in the hands of a skilled cytopathologist.