bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frequency of Hepatitis B in Thalassemia Major Patients
Authors: Hussain Akber , Malik Qudrat Ullah , Ikram Farooq , Ullah Naeem , Nadeem Muhammad Tariq , Hussain Murtaza
Published: July 2023

Background: Thalassemia is a set of inherited hematological illnesses caused by mutations in the genes that code for globin. Regular blood transfusions extend the lives of thalassemia patients, but they also increase the danger of blood-borne illness infections.
Objective: The current study was conducted to check the frequency and risk factors of hepatitis B virus (HBV) infections among β thalassemia major patients.
Methods: The study was conducted over a period of 3 months that is from November 2021 to February 2022 in the department of Thalassemia center CMH Rawalpindi. The study consists of thalassemia patients aged 6 months to 15 years including both male and female patients. Their venous blood was taken and transmitted to the laboratory, Armed force institute of pathology CMH Rawalpindi, for hepatitis B surface antigen test (HbsAg). Their demographic information was gathered, including their age, gender, number of blood transfusions received each year and Hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccination status.
Results: Out of 100 patients there were 45 patients who were male and 55 patients who were female. The patients' ages span from 6 months to 15 years, with a mean age difference of 11.20 years and a standard deviation of 5.56. In three months, the mean difference in the number of blood transfusions received by patients was 22.7 6.6 SD. Patients under the age of ten were 50 percent of the time, and patients beyond ten were also 50 percent of the time (50 percent). Five (5%) of the total 100 patients tested positive for hepatitis B. In three months, the mean difference in the number of blood transfusions received by patients was 18.2 5.6 SD. Thirty (30%) patients out of a total of 100 were not immunized.
Conclusion: Frequency of hepatitis B in beta thalassemia major patients is minimal (less than 5 per 100) is seen in our study. To reduce the future risk of TTI, development of strong national and regional policies on safe blood transfusion procedures, VNRD-based transfusions, and universal quality-assured donor screening are recommended.
IMPACT OF COVID-19 HEALTH CARE EMERGENCY ON TRAUMA RELATED OUTCOMES
Authors: Mustafa Fatima , Khan Mumtaz Ahmed , Mustafa Abdullah , Khan Khushal , Hassan Muhammad
Published: July 2023

Objective: To determine the impact of Covid-19 healthcare emergency on trauma-related outcomes.
Study Design: Cross-sectional observational study
Duration and Place of Study: Emergency department of surgery and allied of –removed for blind review----and from 1st March 2021 to 30th May 2021 for three months.
Patients and Methods: A comparison was made between the number of trauma patients admitted to the emergency department during the pandemic and the patients admitted during the same period of the previous year in the same center (data extracted from hospital records). Furthermore, we compared trauma-related disorders, patterns of injuries, and clinical characteristics of trauma patients in our hospital during a pandemic with those in a non-pandemic.
Results: The number of trauma patients in the pandemic was significantly lower than it was before Covid. Before Covid, 1520 (64.5%) were admitted to the emergency room (non-Covid group), whereas only 835 (35.5%) were admitted to the emergency room during the pandemic (Covid group). There was a 48 % reduction in total. Gender and age ratios did not differ much between the two groups. Between cohorts, there was a significant association between mechanism of injury and type of trauma (p<0.03). Mortality rates decreased during the Covid-19 era (1.3% vs. 3.4%).
Conclusion: As a result of the Covid-19 outbreak, there was a 48% decrease in trauma patients admitted to hospitals and a decrease in their mortality as well. The findings of this study may open the new door to new ways of managing surgical emergencies without engulfing the already busy hospitals.
Comparison of Intra-articular Platelet Rich Plasma versus Corticosteroid Injections for the Treatment of Moderate Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Napar Abdul Rasheed , Solangi Naveed Ahmed , Shahni Mehtab Ali , Ghumro Hafeezullah , Jumani Naveed Ahmed , Hussain Aftab
Published: July 2023

Objective:  To compare the efficacy of intra-articular injections of prednisolone acetate and platelet rich plasma in cases of moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Study design: Prospective comparative study.
Place and Duration of study: Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Khairpur Medical College, Khairpur Mirs, from January 2021 till December 2021
Methodology: A total of 100 patients were selected for the study and were randomly divided into two equal groups. Group C patients received intra-articular corticosteroid injection along with local anesthetic (Prednisolone acetate 40 mg + 3 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine) under ultrasound guidance. Group P patients received 3 injections of PRP, each of 8 ml volume given at one week’s interval. Patients with signs of hemodynamic compromise, sepsis, past history of any intra-articular injection in the same joint were also excluded from the study. Follow up of patients was carried out at 1, 3 and 6 months. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) scale was used to assess the patients prior to injection and then at each follow up. WOMAC scale consists of three subsets i-e pain, stiffness and physical function.
Results: Demographic data was comparable between both groups. Pre-injection WOMAC score in group C and P was 71.54±12.18 and 75.20±8.58 respectively (p-value=0.086); after one month of injections, it was 34.20±10.48 and 35.38±6.31 respectively (p-value=0.580). After 3 months of injection, it was 33.20±8.13 and 31.10±5.50 respectively (p-value=0.195). After 6 months of injection, it was 35.32±10.41 and 32.10±6.63 respectively (p-value=0.68).
Conclusion: It is concluded in our study that intra-articular injections of prednisolone acetate and PRP are equally effective in patients of moderate knee osteoarthritis.
Thyroidectomy with Drain and Without drain; A Clinical Comparative Study
Authors: Saleem Muhammad , Saba Sarwat , Saqib Khurram , Alamgir Ashar , Tabassam Sumara , Rashid Zakariya
Published: July 2023

Background: Thyroidectomy is one of the most difficult surgical procedures. The study aims to compare the thyroidectomy procedure with drain placement and without drain concerning the hospital stay, Postoperative complications, and pain assessment using a visual analog scale.
Methods: A prospective comparative study was designed in the Department of otorhinolaryngology & Head Neck Surgery---removed for blind review----. A total of 117 patients were enrolled in the study from which 9 were excluded due to loss of follow-up. The patients were divided into two groups by using computer-generated randomized numbers containing sealed envelopes. Both groups contained 54 patients. Group A patients with a drain placed while group B contained patients without a drain. The patients with drain have a longer hospital stay and reported increased pain as compared to the patients with drainless thyroidectomy.
Results: The mean age and standard deviation calculated for the patients enrolled in both groups after randomization was 13.28  42.5 and 12.18  43.9 in groups A and B respectively. The mean ages were statistically insignificant. However, Postoperative variables such as length of hospital stay and post-operative pain by visual analog scale were assessed. The hospital stays of the patients with a drain placed was found statistically significant with a P-value < 0.05 Postoperative pain assessed by visual analog scale was also significant having a P-value <0.05 for patients having stayed for 2 to 4 days.
Conclusion: Placement of drain after thyroidectomy saves the patient from life-threatening complications but at the same time increases the post-operative pain on day one and increases the length of hospital stay of the patient. The routine practice of drain placement should be avoided unless there must be a risk of the development of hematoma or seroma.
360-degree Evaluation of Postgraduate residents at Rawalpindi Medical University: Appraising the achievement of core competencies by comparing the scores of 1st &
Authors: Shahid Rizwana , Kahlid Rabbia , Umar Muhammad , Khan Sadia
Published: July 2023

Objectives: To compare 360-degree evaluation scores of postgraduate residents during 1st and 2nd cycles of evaluation to analyze the acquisition of core competencies.
Materials & Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was done to compare the acquisition of core competencies as per ACGME by MS/MD residents in 3 public sector teaching hospitals of Rawalpindi. The enrolled residents undergone 1st and 2nd cycle of 360-degree evaluation from Jan-June 2018 and July 2018 -Jan 2019 respectively. The data was gathered from supervisors, faculty, nursing staff, patients and their attendants by structured proforma. Data was analyzed by SPSS version 25.0. Specialty-wise scores were statistically presented with 95% CI. Differences in scores of core competencies during both cycles were determined by independent sample t-test. P < 0.05 was considered significant.
Results: About 93 and 113 trainees were evaluated during 1st and 2nd cycle of evaluation respectively. Most (41.70%) of them were 1st year residents. 2nd cycle of evaluation revealed statistically significant improvement (P<0.00001) in all 6 core competencies. Feedback from the patients also illustrated significant difference in scores of both cycles (P = 0.01). Trainees of MS Surgery & Allied programs were determined as highly competent with 250.06 ± 38.57 score followed by those of MD Medicine & Allied (247.59 ± 42.15) and Gynecology & Obstetrics (246.71 ± 46.26) out of total score of 331. Residents of HFH and DHQ Hospital had statistically significant enhancement of competencies (P<0.0001) than those of BBH (P=0.003).
Conclusion: There was substantial enhancement of core competencies among postgraduate trainees.
Adult Hemophiliacs in Pakistan: Health-Related Quality of Life and Psychological Aspects
Authors: Yaqoob Eesha , Mushahid Zonaira , Asif Muhammad Asad , Ishfaq Muhammad , Sabah Maheen , Waseem Mishal
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Coagulation factor VIII (FVIII) (in hemophilia A) or IX (FIX) (in hemophilia B) deficiency associated with the X chromosome is the primary cause of hemophilia. Bleeding carried on by hemophilia can have an impact on a patient's mental health and quality of life. Recurrent bleeds in their muscles and joints cause hemophilia patients to experience constant pain. Certain variables, such as depression brought on by low self-esteem in comparison to "normal" siblings and peers, may have an impact on hemophilia patients. 
Objective: The goal of this investigation is to assess how psychological factors and pain affect adult hemophiliac patients' well-being.
Materials and Methods: On 102 hemophiliacs, a cross-sectional study was done. Data were gathered using visual analogue scales for pain, depression anxiety stress assessments, and quality of life questionnaires specific to hemophilia. Regression analysis, analysis of covariance, and correlation coefficients were used to analyze the data. Results: According to the findings, 70.8% of hemophiliac patients felt pain on the research day. Patients with hemophilia had an average HRQoL score of 50.08 (standard deviation: 18.49). Additionally, stress, worry, and mild to serious depression were present in 45.7 %, 63.5% and 58.3% of the patients, respectively. Additionally, a substantial correlation between HRQoL and sadness, anxiety, and pain intensity were found. The study variables were able to explain 47% of changes in HRQOL in the regression model, with depression and pain intensity serving as important predictors. Conclusion: To enhance the psychosocial health and quality of life of patients, emphasis should be given to these factors.
Establishing normal range of fetal renal artery RI and PI values in singleton pregnancies during 18-38 weeks of gestation
Authors: Nadeem Beenish , Malik Naushaba , Zahoor Anam
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION: Human kidney constitutes an integral organ during the period of embryogenesis. The use of regular ultrasound during antenatal follow ups not only assesses structural aspects of fetal body but can also evaluate functional integrity of developing organs to some extent. Unfortunately, fetal renal hemodynamics has been studied more in western population which have better socio-economic status as well as good antenatal care. Our study aims at establishing a normal reference range for fetal renal artery indices in healthy Pakistani pregnant population which has not been done before.
METHODOLOGY: This is a nonprobability convenient study investigating 130 healthy pregnant women during 18-38weeks of gestation. Resistivity and pulsatility indices (RI and PI) of the fetal renal arteries were evaluated dividing the patients in four groups as per their gestational age. Normal reference ranges of RI and PI values were established. P values for RI and PI were also being calculated.
RESULTS: Mean values of the RI and PI of the fetal renal arteries were calculated. P value for RI is 0.05 and PI is 0.69. Hence the values remain unaltered with advancing gestational age.
CONCLUSIONS: These reference ranges demonstrate the minimal change of the fetal renal hemodynamics during healthy pregnancies pertinent to our reference population. These may be applicable in antenatal practice to identify deviations from these reference ranges and will be beneficial in further studies related to prediction of fetal renal function.
Anti-Hyperlipidemic Effect of Zinc complex of Betulinic acid in High Fat Diet- Induced Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Tayyab Mehwish , Jehangir Adnan , Ayub Farhana , Ijaz Nimra , Ahmed` Sameer , Munir Attiya
Published: July 2023

Background: Hyperlipidemia is considered a modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease and atherosclerosis. Drugs of first choice, Statins, despite being well tolerable, are accompanied by many adverse effects. To tackle the shortcomings of standard drugs, there is dire demand to make an agent which equates to a better response. This study evaluated the anti-hyperlipidemic and comparative effects of Zinc complex of Betulinic acid (Zn+BA) with simvastatin (SIM), on high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia in rats, and the safety profile of the two treatments was also assessed.
Methodology: Hyperlipidemia was induced by giving a high-fat diet. BA +Zn 10 mg/kg and SIM 20 mg/kg were given orally for four weeks. On the final day terminal sampling was done and serum lipid profile (TG, TC, LDL, HDL) and hepatic enzymes (ALT) for assessing hepatotoxicity were estimated. Results: Our results showed that BA+Zn significantly increased HDL levels and significantly reduced serum TC, TG, and LDL (p<0.001) as compared to Simvastatin. Correspondingly serum ALT levels also showed significant reduction (p<0.001) in comparison with Simvastatin.
Conclusion: Our study suggests that BA+Zn effectively attenuates high-fat diet-induced hyperlipidemia while preserving hepatic function and could serve as a better alternative to simvastatin in treating hyperlipidemia.
Comparison of Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Cage versus Iliac Bone Graft undergoing Anterior Cervical Discectomy and Fusion (ACDF): A multicenter experience
Authors: Sarwar Gondal Soban , Javed Saad , Minhas Ali Tasaaduq Hussain , Khan Rana Mohsin , Shehzad Yasir , Akhtar Nadeem
Published: July 2023

Background:In anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), the two most frequently used materials are allografts and polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages. The aim of the study was to compare the functional and radiological outcomes of polyetheretherketone (PEEK) cages with iliac crest allografts in anterior cervical decompression and fusion (ACDF) in patients of symptomatic Cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM).Methods:In this cohort study, we included 70 (35 in each group) patients of symptomatic CSM having degenerative cervical disc disease who were planned for ACDF from Jan-2017 to Jan-2021 in Rawalpindi Medical University. All procedures were performed under general anesthesia in supine position, standard ACDF technique was used in all patients. Anterior cervical locked plates were used for fixation of PEEK cages or the iliac allografts in the inter-vertebral space. Radiologic and functional outcomes were determined till 6 months after surgery. Results:The baseline study characteristics were similar between the groups. Mean Modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (MJOA) score at 06 months’ follow-up was same between the groups; 14.16±4.30 in group A and 13.54±3.24 in group B (p-value 0.49). Disc space height at 06 months’ follow-up was also similar between the groups; 10.01±0.67 mm in group A versus 10.11±0.70 mm in group B (p-value 0.54). Fusion rate at final follow-up was 31 (88.6%) in group A versus 30 (85.7%) in group B (p-value 0.72).Conclusion:PEEK cages have similar functional and radiologic outcomes in comparison to ileal crest allografts. So, PEEK cages can be used as a successful alternative to ileal crest allografts this will help to reduce donor site morbidity and will reduce longer surgical times associated with graft harvesting.
Depression and anxiety in glaucoma patients using mono drug therapy vs polydrug therapy
Authors: Tahir Aaiza , Ahmed Muhammad Waqas , Khan Summaya , Zafar Omar , Sarfraz Muhammad Haroon , Tarar Muhammad Shahid
Published: July 2023

Objective: To evaluate the frequency of depression, anxiety, and stress scores among glaucoma patients and assess factors attributing to severe scores. Methodology: This Analytical, Cross-sectional study was conducted at the Armed Forces Institute of Ophthalmology from June 2020 to July 2021. Data was collected through nonprobability consecutive sampling. Individuals with diagnosed primary open-angle glaucoma were selected irrespective of age and gender. Dass-21 (self-assessment scale) was used in Urdu to document patient scores for anxiety, depression, and stress. Results: The frequency of males (n=204, 54%) and females (n=173, 45.8%) in the two groups was almost the same (p=0.164). The mean age in the mono-drug group (mean= 48.81±10.58 years) was slightly lower than the polydrug group (mean=53.67±11.16years) (p=0.000018). Overall depression score of the sample fell in the severe category (score=21-27), with individuals showing more depression scores in the poly group (n=99, 26%) than in the mono drug group (n=76, 20%) (p=0.000002). Individuals on polydrug therapy showed severe scores for depression, anxiety, and stress. Conclusion: Among the glaucoma patient, those on polydrug therapy have higher incidences of anxiety among young patients and depression among older patients. This not only causes poor compliance to treatment but also increases the risk of progression of glaucoma hence augmenting the crippling effects of the disease. Keywords: Depression, anxiety, DASS-21, Glaucoma
Diagnostic Accuracy Of Placental Thickness Measured By Ultrasonography In The Detection Of Intrauterine Growth Restricted (IUGR) Babies Keeping Actual Birth Weight As Gold Standard
Authors: Jabeen Farkhanda , Farhan Madiha , Amjad Maryam , Begum Aeisha , Gul Nadia , Umbreen Salma
Published: July 2023

Objective: To determine the diagnostic accuracy of the placental thickness measured by ultrasound in detecting IUGR babies keeping actual birth weight as the gold standard.

Methods: This cross-sectional validation study was conducted in the Department of Radiology P.O.F Hospital Wah Cantt. The data was gathered over a period of six months, from 06-19-2017 to 12-18-2017. A total of 125 patients were included in this study. All pregnant women were examined by the greyscale and Doppler ultrasonography using a color Doppler scanner with a 5.0 MHz convex probe. Placental thickness was measured as the distance between the echogenic line of the chorionic plate and the hypoechoic myometrium. The pregnant females were followed till childbirth and the weight of the baby at birth was recorded.

Results: Patients ranged between 20-35 years of age. The average age of the study participants was 27.6±3.3 years, the mean gestational age was 34.2±3.0 weeks, the mean BMI was 23.5±1.3 (kg/m2), and the mean parity was 1.1±1.0. We found a sensitivity of 65.5%, specificity of 83.3%, Positive Predictive Value( PPV) of 98.7%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV) of 10.8%, and diagnostic accuracy of 66.4% for antenatal prediction of IUGR based on placental thickness measurement. Stratification for age and gestational age was also carried out.

Conclusion: Placental thickness on ultrasonography can be used as a reliable marker for detecting IUGR babies with an accuracy of 6.4%.
Frequency Of Bacterial Co-Infections Isolated from Covid-19 Positive Patients From Tertiary Care Hospital Of Karachi
Authors: Khan Fouzia Zeeshan , Fatima Ambreen , Gohar Hareem , Sajjad Mehwish , Siddiqui Mona , Naseem Saima
Published: July 2023

Objective: This study aims to determine the frequency of bacterial co-infections in COVID-19-positive patients.

Methodology: A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Pakistan, from November 15, 2021, to April 15, 2022. Blood and respiratory tract samples were collected, including sputum, bronchial lavage, and tracheal aspirate. Clinical specimens were inoculated onto a Sheep blood agar plate, Chocolate agar plate (aerobic with 5% CO2), and MacConkey’s agar. Identification was followed by specific and standard microbiological protocols. COVID-19 was confirmed by qualitative PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed using the Kirby Bauer disc diffusion method.

Results: A total of 202 clinical samples, including blood, sputum, tracheal aspirates, and bronchial lavage, were collected from COVID-19-positive patients. Male patients were more common in sputum and tracheal aspirates, while female patients were more common in blood cultures. The majority of patients were over 60 years of age. Acinetobacter baumannii was predominantly isolated from blood and tracheal aspirates, exhibiting multidrug resistance, but showing complete sensitivity towards Colistin. Klebsiella pneumonia exhibited high prevalence in sputum, with complete resistance observed in Cephalosporins and Co-trimoxazole.

Conclusion: The study concludes a high frequency of superadded bacterial co-infections, caused most prominently by Acinetobacter baumannii, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The majority of these are multidrug-resistant pathogens, therefore, urgent action is required to control the spread of nosocomial infections by resistant strains, which are responsible for the high mortality rate among COVID-19 critical patients.
Comparison Of ALT In Type 2 Diabetics with And Without Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Malik Kausar , Batool Faiza , Meraj Lubna , Saddiq Shazia , Akbar Abrar , Mughal Hina Hanif
Published: July 2023

Objective: To determine the association of alanine aminotransferase in type 2 diabetic patients with and without fatty liver disease.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was done for six months at Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zaid Al-Nahyan Hospital Rawalakot. In our study, we included all the patients who presented to the outpatient department (OPD) having type 2 diabetes mellitus. Their age, gender, height, weight, and duration of diabetes mellitus were noted. Their liver function test (LFTS), fasting blood sugar and HBA1c, and fasting lipid profile were also done at the time of their OPD visit and results were noted. They were given an appointment for an ultrasound abdomen from the radiology department for detection of fatty liver disease and the results were noted on the next OPD visit.

Results: Total study population was 90 patients and out of which 35 (38.8%) were male and 55 (61.1%) were female. 58 years was the mean age of our study population. Fatty liver was present in 50% of patients. ALT was raised from a baseline value of 36 in 61% of patients while fasting blood sugar was raised in 83% of patients. The mean fasting blood sugar was 208 mg/dl. ALT was not significantly different in patients with and without fatty liver disease. However, it was found that patients with uncontrolled blood glucose levels have significantly raised ALT which was also statistically proven as the P value was less than 0.05. Also, patients with high blood glucose have a higher incidence of fatty liver disease as compared with normal blood glucose level patients but the difference was not statistically significant as shown by a P value more than 0.05.

Conclusion: Fatty liver disease is more common in Type 2 diabetic patients with uncontrolled blood sugar. There is a high rate of raised ALT in diabetic patients whose blood sugar control is not optimum.
Frequency Of Raised Mean Platelet Volume In Patients With Acute Coronary Syndrome In HIT Hospital Taxila
Authors: Batool Faiza , Malik Kausar , Meraj Lubna , Tariq Khalid Mehmood , Iqbal Tooba , Zaka Neelum
Published: July 2023

To determine the frequency of raised Mean Platelet Volume (MPV) in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) in HIT Hospital Taxila.

Materials and Methods: A case-control study was at HIT Hospital Taxila. All the patients presented with chest pain who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were recruited into the study. Patients with acute coronary syndrome were included in the case group (ACS group). The patients included in the control group (non-ACS group) had chest pain without having ischemic heart disease or risk of ischemic heart disease. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 28. To find out the correlation between the type of chest pain and mean platelet volume chi-square test was applied.

Results: Total 93 patients were included in this study. 51 patients were included in the ACS group while 42 were in non- ACS group. To find out the correlation between the type of chest pain and mean platelet volume chi-square test was applied. The results show a significant association between raised MPV and acute coronary syndrome.

Conclusion: Patients with raised MPV are at higher risk of acute coronary disease and complications related to it. It could be used as a predictor of ischemic heart disease and its complications.
Indications And Outcomes In Neonates Requiring Mechanical Ventilation In Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Wah Cantt, Pakistan
Authors: Asrar Maryam , Nazir Sajid , Haider Shahzad , Sajid Huzaifa
Published: July 2023

Objective: This study was carried out in resource-restricted settings receiving patients predominantly from middle- or lower-income classes, to highlight the indications, outcomes, and multiple factors affecting the outcome of mechanical ventilation in neonates.Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted in level 3 NICU. Neonates ventilated from January 2018 to July 2021 were included in this study. Primary disease as an indication of ventilation along with outcomes in comparison to various parameters (clinical and laboratory) was listed as predictors of mortality. Thrombocytopenia was defined as platelet count<150,000/ μl and thrombocytopenia present was recorded as positive and negative for normal platelet count. C Reactive Protein levels of > 6 mg/dl were taken as positive.Results: A total of 320 ventilated neonates were included in the study. Among them 65.6% were males and 41.3% survived. Respiratory distress syndrome (RDS ) (28.7%), Hypoxic Ischaemic Encephalopathy (HIE) (26.6%), and Neonatal sepsis (NNS) (14.1%) were the three most indications for ventilation. The disease-specific outcome shows mortality was 64.4% in NNS, 64% in RDS, and 56.4% in HIE. Out of the total enrolled babies for the study, 62.1% were received outdoors and 37.8 % were indoors 74.4% of babies with HIE were received outdoors. Low birth weight, prematurity, mode of admission, first CRP at the time of presentation, thrombocytopenia, and duration of ventilation were portending factors of mortality Conclusion: Prematurity associated with RDS, HIE and NNS were the major indications for ventilation. Outdoor babies have poor survival due to late referrals and late presentations. Thrombocytopenia and early sepsis were found to be bad prognostic factors.
Successful Myringoplasty - Do The Site & Size Of TM Perforation Matter?
Authors: Manzoor Areesha , Hameed Mirza Khizar , Ali Irshad , Khalil Nudrat , Umara Ansa , Naveed Seema
Published: July 2023

Objective: To determine the success rate of myringoplasty based on the site and size of tympanic membrane perforation. Study Design: Cross sectional, Descriptive Study Settings: ENT Department Fauji Foundation Hospital, Rawalpindi Study Duration: 30 July 2019 to 29 December 2021. Material and Methods: After approval of Hospital Ethical Committee, a sample size of 100 patients was calculated by using WHO sample size calculator. Patients were selected through Non probability convenient sampling. Informed consent was obtained from all the patients. All the patients were operated upon through post auricular approach using underlay technique and temporalis fascia was used as a graft in all the cases. Success of myringoplasty was assessed one month after surgery. Myringoplasty was considered successful upon complete closure of the defect as assessed under surgical microscope. Data analysis was done for frequencies and percentages using SPSS version 24. Results: There were 52% males and 48% females. Mean age of patients was 35.5 years and they ranged between 17 to 48 years. Overall myringoplasty was successful in 71% patients. Regarding the size of perforation, it was successful in 100% pinhead size perforations, in 86.7% small sized, 89.5% medium sized, 42% large and 6.7% subtotal sized perforations. Regarding site of the perforations, myringoplasty was successful in 96% anterior, 100% posterior, 40% inferior, 40% middle and 8% subtotal/ large perforations. Conclusion: Myringoplasty is an effective surgery for sealing Tympanic Membrane perforations resulting in better quality of life. Success rate of myringoplasty has a definite association with size and site of perforation. The smaller the perforation, the higher would be the success rate. Similarly, anterior and posterior perforations heal better as compared to inferior and mid position perforations. Key words: Myringoplasty, Size and site of Tympanic membrane perforation, Tympanic membrane, Chronic Suppurative Otitis Media.
A study on Emotional Intelligence & Empathy in Allied Vision Sciences Students
Authors: Shaheer Muhammad , Asima Rafique  , Zahid Kamal Siddiqui  , Ummarah Rasheed
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

To study the emotional intelligence and empathy in allied eye care workers.

Methods:

After ethical approval of study, a google form was developed which included Schutte’s scale and Davis Interpersonal index questions in addition to those related to basic demographic information. The proforma was sent via social media application (whatsapp) to study participants. Allied vision sciences students enrolled in bachelors program at various colleges/universities were included in study. A total of 150 students were invited to participate in this study out of whom 119 responded. Comparison of emotional intelligence scores based upon gender, year of study and boarder/non-boarder were done by applying Mann Whitney and one way ANOVA test. 

Results:

Female responders were predominant (77.3%) in survey while majority (32.8%) of participants were in first year of study. When compared based upon boarder versus non-boarder, the sub scale of ‘’social skills’’ showed significant difference (p=0.017) with Non-Boarders scoring higher. Also, ‘’emotional regulation’’ scores were significantly higher (p=0.050) among second year students as compared to other years.

Conclusion:

Among allied vision sciences students, emotional intelligence significantly differs in some subscales when measured according to being boarder or not and year of degree program.
Occurrence of severe cognitive impairment in elderly individuals with poor glycemic control Vs elderly individuals with good glycemic control or no DM: a case control study”
Authors: Salman Basma , Jehangir Fatima , Jahan Aroosa , Aslam Saira , Ansari Nadra
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACT:

Background: There is substantiatial corroboration that diabetes (both T1DM and T2DM) plays an essential role in predisposition to cognitive decline thus leading to dementia in both human and animal studies. (1,2,3). Hypoglycemia has been associated with the increased risk of developing cognitive impairment. (4). There is lack of data from our community to support this. We aim to observe occurrence of cognitive impairment in individuals aged 65 or above with poor glycemic control and compare it with similar age group individuals with no DM or good glycemic control. Frailty independently contributes to the cognitive decline. We also assessed frailty index and incorporated it into our result interpretation.

Methods: We conducted a case control study in the primary health care center of Ziauddin University from 1st December 2021 to 30th June 2022. Cases included 83 individuals 65yrs with HbA1c =7 and above and controls included 91 individuals 65yrs and above with HbA1c <7. Both groups were assessed for cognitive decline using MMSE score and CFS score determined their dependency status.

Results: Moderately uncontrolled Diabetes had highest association with severe cognitive decline(50%) p-value 0.000 and those who could not manage to do IADLS were severely dementic in our study( p-value 0.046). We also found DM to be associated with high frailty scores. Severely uncontrolled DM was associated with CFS of 5 meaning those who were dependent on others for instrumental activities of daily living. Those who managed well independently was associated with Pre DM in our study.( p-value 0.041)

Conclusion: Severe cognitive decline has high association with uncontrolled glycemic control.

Keywords: IADLS (instrumental activities of daily living), CFS (chronic frailty scale), MCI (Mild Cognitive Impairment)
Prevalence And Morphometric Analysis Of Fossa Navicularis Magna In Dry Human Skulls
Authors: Tasleem Maria , Hina Mohtasham , Qureshi Fauzia , Aslam Imtiaz , Atta Iram , Tafweez Raafea
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Basiocciput is the part of occipital bone present on the inferior aspect of skull. Fossa Navicularis Magna-an osseous defect is a variation in normal anatomy of basiocciput. Lately few case reports presented this fossa as a cause of spread of infection from nasopharynx to brain resulting in meningitis and osteomyelitis.

Objectives: This study aims to find the incidence and morphometry of this fossa in Pakistani populace to avoid any misdiagnosis or misinterpretations.

Materials & Methods: This study was conducted on dry human skulls at King Edward Medical University Lahore. Fossa was measured in its transverse and vertical diameters and to locate the fossa its distance from various anatomical land marks such as foramen ovale, foramen Lacerum, carotid canal, occipital condyles, pharyngeal tubercle and posterior border of vomer was noted.

Results:  The incidence of this fossa was found to be 5.3% in Pakistani population. Predominantly oval shaped, fossa measured 5.5 and 3.06 mm in vertical and transverse diameters respectively. It was 12.2 mm posterior to vomer and 5.9 mm anterior to pharyngeal tubercle.

Conclusion: This study is useful for radiologists and clinicians in avoiding any misinterpretations on radiographs and unnecessary investigations
Comparison Of The Effectiveness Of Daily Versus Weekly Oral Iron Supplementation In Preventing Anemia During Pregnancy
Authors: Sadaf Maliha , Iqbal Khansa , Ahmed Saira , Sehar Mehak , Waheed Nabeela
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Daily oral iron and folic acid intake is recommended as part of antenatal care but adherence to this regimen, due to gastrointestinal side effects, interrupted intake of iron. Weekly oral iron therapy has been introduced as an alternative to the daily iron regimen.

Objective:

To compare mean hemoglobin and hematocrit in non-anemic pregnant females receiving daily oral iron versus weekly iron supplements in third trimester of pregnancy.

Material and Methods

This randomized Controlled Trial study was carried out in department of obstetrics and gynecology of holy family hospital, Rawalpindi during 20th November 2019 to 20th May 2020. 70 pregnant females of 15 to 45 years, with singleton pregnancies, at gestational amenorrhea 14 to 22 weeks at the time of inclusion with hemoglobin level 11g/dl and above were included. They were randomly divided into two equal groups using SPSS, Group A (35) received daily oral iron and Group B, 35 received weekly oral iron. 

Results:

There was no statistically significant difference could be detected between both groups as regards the hemoglobin level before starting iron supplementation and duration of supplementation and this can be attributed to proper randomization. Mean post treatment hemoglobin was 13.2±0.93 g/dl in group A and 12.9±0.95 g/dl in group B (0.118), mean change of hemoglobin was 1.07±0.34 g/dl in group A and 0.63±0.56 g/dl in group B (0.000), mean post treatment hematocrit was 35.857±0.87 % in group A and 32.857±0.91 % in group B (p 0.000), mean change of hematocrit was 2.942±0.59 % in group A and 1.000±0.00 % in group B (p 0.000).

 

 

Conclusion:

Weekly iron supplementation as a prophylaxis in non-anemic pregnant women is as good as daily supplementation as regards the hemoglobin level.
Perceptions and Performance of dental students using Conventional and Virtual Microscopy in Oral Pathology
Authors: Gulmina Saeed Orakzai  , Waqar-Un-Nisa  , Saima Irshad  , Nabeela Naeem  , Ammarah Afreen  , Zarah Afreen
Published: July 2023

Virtual microscopy for showing histopathological slides have been in use for quite some time. This method of teaching is considered to be a good replacement for conventional microscopy using glass slides. This study was carried out to analyze the perception and performance of dental students regarding the use of conventional microscopic slides and virtual slides in relation to teaching and learning.

Material and methods: Eighty undergraduate dental students who had studies the subject of oral pathology as a compulsory subject at Watim Dental college were invited to participate in the study. Students not willing to take part in the study were excluded. The questionnaires were duly filled and test was taken by the students using either virtual slides or glass slides. The data was collected and analyzed using SPSS 20.

Results: A total of eighty undergraduate students participated in the study. The results showed that dental students had a higher acceptance rate (all P-value<0.001) for cases taught via virtual microscopy and they out performed in cases shown on virtual slides (p<0.01).

Conclusion: In this study the students preferred teaching of oral histopathology via virtual slides over conventional glass slides and it also contributed more to their learning.

Keyword: Conventional microscopy, dental students, virtual microscopy, oral pathology
SOSIALISASI LABEL PRODUK UMKM REMPEYEK (GEREH) SEBAGAI UPAYA MENINGKATKAN PEMASARAN DI DESA SAGALAHERANG KIDUL
Authors: Suryati Tati , Kusnadi Iwan Henri , Muhammad Isya Amin , Miliyawati Ety
Published: July 2023

Rempeyek atau peyek bahkan di Desa Sagalaherang Kidul terkenal dengan nama Gereh adalah sejenis makanan pelengkap dari kelompok gorengan. Terdapat UMKM yang mengolah tepung beras, tepung terigu, dan bumbu lainnya menjadi rempeyek yang siap makan. UMKM tersebut memproduksi rempeyek untuk di pasarkan di daerah Sagalaherang Kidul dan sekitarnya. Akan tetapi UMKM tersebut memiliki masalah dengan legalitas produk yang belum terdaftar secara sah dan berbadan hukum serta masalah tidak memiliki, segmen pasar yang masih sempit, masalah keuangan dan pengembangan produk. Maka dari itu kami ingin membantu menyelasaikan masalah- masalah tersebut agar produk ini dapat berkembang dan berkemajuan. Selain itu, pengelolaan sumber daya yang ada akan kita maksimalkan agar dapat mendongkrak penjualan dan menambah pendapatan UMKM yang berada di Desa Sagalaherang Kidul tersebut.
Nociones del Autocuidado en personal de primera línea de respuesta ante emergencias y desastres
Authors: Vargas Machado Camilo Andrés , Vargas Sepúlveda Claudia Faviola
Published: July 2023

Este artículo presenta un compendio de las prácticas de autocuidado en el personal de primera línea de respuesta ante emergencias y desastres; realizado a través una revisión bibliográfica de fuentes, teniendo en cuenta que es un tema regulado por autoridades internacionales en salud; a fin de reunir información para determinar las prácticas de autocuidado en relación con los riesgos en este grupo. Dentro de los aspectos a tener en cuenta se encuentra la legislación y los parámetros nacionales e internacionales, a partir de los cuales se exponen siete ejes temáticos: Primer respondiente; autocuidado; riesgos y medidas de autocuidado; situaciones relacionadas con la persona en función del riesgo; acciones de autocuidado en situaciones no comunes (pandemias); la forma como intervienen las capacidades de aprendizaje; y, la adaptación al cambio. Concluyendo que el personal de atención de emergencias y de desastres está expuesto a múltiples riesgos y que la implementación de las prácticas de autocuidado depende de varias habilidades, como son: la capacidad de aprendizaje y adaptación; además, se pone a prueba las capacidades del ser humano, sus conocimientos, personalidad, hábitos, relaciones y otros aspectos que facilitan el cambio y asumir nuevas experiencias, tanto en situaciones normales como en momentos de crisis.
Conocimiento, actitud y práctica de estudiantes universitarios hacia la prevención de riesgos durante eventos sísmicos
Authors: Loor Katiuska , Muñoz Cabas Diego
Published: July 2023

Los movimientos telúricos han generado graves problemas para la seguridad de las personas a lo largo de la historia de la humanidad, trayendo consigo muertes y pérdidas materiales; estos movimientos se caracterizan por su potencial trágico y lo inesperado de su ocurrencia; por ello, la educación es una de las estrategias más eficaces de prevención. A través de este artículo se pretende determinar el conocimiento, actitud y práctica de estudiantes universitarios hacia la prevención de riesgos durante eventos sísmicos. Investigación de tipo descriptiva, con diseño no experimental, prospectivo y transversal. La población de la presente investigación está conformada por 4.454 estudiantes activos de la Facultad de Ciencias Médicas de la Universidad Técnica de Manabí. La muestra quedó conformada por 354 estudiantes activos durante el período 2020-2021. Se aplicó el instrumento Autoadministrado denominado: “Conocimiento, actitud y práctica de prevención de riesgos durante eventos sísmicos”. Se aplicaron los recursos de la estadística descriptiva para obtener los puntajes de las dimensiones de la variable expresado en frecuencias, porcentajes y media aritmética. Se observa que 55,4% de los encuestados tiene desconocimiento de lo que se debe hacer y de lo que no se debe hacer, para la prevención de riesgos durante eventos sísmicos. 70,34% de los encuestados expresó una actitud inadecuada, y en la dimensión “Práctica” 96,89% de los encuestados manifestó una práctica inadecuada. En conclusión, la mayoría mostró deficiencias en conocimiento, actitud y práctica para la prevención de riesgos durante eventos sísmicos.
Caracterización físico-química de suelos con potencial agrícola del estado Táchira, Venezuela
Authors: Álvarez Luimar , Barbosa Alexandro , Montilla-Velasco Juan C. , Trujillo Erika
Published: July 2023

En la literatura existe poca información sobre datos físico-químicos de suelos de la región andina, aunque recientemente para el estado Táchira se mostraron las características físico-químicas de estos suelos en forma general, pero no detalladamente por cada municipio. En esta investigación se reportan las clases texturales, el contenido de materia orgánica del suelo, el pH y la conductividad eléctrica para cada uno de los veintinueve municipios del estado Táchira en Venezuela, con el fin de determinar su potencial agrícola y tener valores de referencia para los productores. Los datos se obtuvieron de 644 análisis físico-químicos realizados en el Laboratorio Bioambiental de la Universidad Nacional Experimental del Táchira para el período 2015-2019. Los resultados sugieren predominan en más del 70% de las muestras las texturas gruesas, en 55% los suelos con bajo contenido de materia orgánica, y los pH ácidos y los suelos desaturados en todos los municipios del estado. Las diferencias significativas mostraron que la textura del suelo influyó en el pH de este. Las condiciones de los suelos pueden ser mejoradas mediante enmiendas orgánicas y encalamiento para obtener condiciones óptimas para los cultivos.
A 'constant lurking danger'? The Comintern's Far Eastern Bureau, 1928-33
Authors: Streets-Salter Heather
Published: July 2023

This article explores the creation and operation of the Comintern's Far Eastern Bureau (FEB), which existed from 1928 to 1934 and was headquartered in Shanghai, China. It investigates why the FEB was organised, who was involved in its operations, and what its agents were doing at a
time when communism had been declared illegal by the Guomindang Party. It also offers an assessment of the FEB in terms of its impact on China and the wider region, especially on whether or not the FEB's existence influenced the development of the Chinese Communist Party and other communist
movements in East and Southeast Asia. Finally, this article assesses the level of threat the FEB posed to the Chinese Guomindang Party and to the various colonial regimes in the region, as well as its successes and failures. Its purpose is to renew interest in the FEB and to prompt a more
sustained discussion about its composition, activities, impact and legacies.
Michael Goodrum and Philip Smith, Printing Terror. American Horror Comics as Cold War Commentary and Critique
Authors: Kirby Dianne
Published: July 2023

In 1944 America, 41 per cent of men and 28 per cent of women read comics, plus 91 per cent of American children. By 1950, 'the comics industry generated an annual profit of almost $41 million dollars and published 50 million comics a month: everyone read comics' (pp 17-18). Resistance
to the industry came from groups such as church and parental organisations that assumed children read the texts seriously. 1954 witnessed the adoption of the Comics Code Authority (CCA), a self-regulatory body that prohibited certain content. It dealt a huge blow to the horror genre, although
it did not destroy it: it was to see a significant revival in the 1970s when the CCA reviewed their standards.Printing Terror. American Horror Comics as Cold War Commentary and Critique provides a broad history of the comics it addresses, but its key focus is on addressing the horror
genre as a cultural force and examining its commentary on the world.
'Something Real': Black Bolshevism and the Comintern
Authors: Bergin Cathy
Published: July 2023

This article is an exploration of the internationalist race/class politics of black Bolsheviks in the United States. It places those politics within the context of both the Comintern's anti-colonialism and the wider black radical tradition. Black communists and socialists living in
the US were highly attuned to both racialised pasts and the racialised present and this impacted on their particularly enthusiastic response to the October revolution and its aftermath. It argues that these writers, thinkers and activists inaugurated an ambitious and influential political
imaginary in which black workers were central to the dismantling of racial capitalism. Through an engagement with black socialist and communist publications of the period the article demonstrates that the Comintern's anti-colonial politics of liberation spoke to black experiences of class
exploitation and racial oppression and also to the established global imaginary of the black radical tradition. These transnational politics of solidarity had an impact both on forms of African American anti-racist class politics and on the Comintern's understanding of the politics of race
and class in the United States.