bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder and Orthopedic Patients’ Emotional Distress: Moderated Effects of Family and Friends’ Support
Authors: Chukwuemeka Nkechi A. , Akintunde Tosin Y. , Isangha Stanley O. , Obioha Wisdom C. , Nweke Joy C. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Research indicates that the psychological well-being of orthopedic patients can benefit from a robust social support system that offers emotional assistance both before and after surgery. However, the impact of social networks on mental health outcomes remains inconclusive due to variations in availability.

Objectives:
This study investigated the influence of support from family and friends in the relationship between post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and emotional distress among orthopedic patients in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
The study employed a hospital-based research design, using the 17-item PTSD self-report measure (PCL-C) and depression anxiety stress scales (DASS-21) to assess psychological distress and dimensions of social support from friends and family, involving 542 orthopedic patients from the National Orthopedic Hospital in Enugu, Nigeria.

Results:
The findings revealed a significant association between PTSD and emotional distress (β = 0.866; t = 9.245; P < 0.001). Family support was found to exacerbate emotional distress among orthopedic patients (β = 0.448; t = 4.176; P < 0.001), while support from friends showed an inverse effect on emotional distress (β = −0.310; t = −2.880; P < 0.01). Moreover, moderation analysis indicated that high family support reduces the effect of PTSD on emotional distress for orthopedic patients (β = −0.035; t = −3.539; [CI: −0.055, −0.016], P < 0.01).

Conclusion:
The study recommends prompt intervention for orthopedic patients to enhance their well-being by leveraging the available support from family and friends to alleviate the emotional distress associated with PTSD. Additionally, it underscores the importance of educating families and friends of orthopedic patients on their role in supporting the patient’s recovery journey.
Erectile Function in Men Presenting with Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms from Benign Prostate Enlargement: Association with Quality of Life Scores in the Context of Interviewer-Assisted Questionnaire Administration
Authors: Nnabugwu Ikenna I. , Anyimba Solomon K. , Amu Okwudili C. , Nnabugwu Chinwe A. , Okolie Louis T. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Interviewer-assisted administration of International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS) and Internal Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5) questionnaires in men with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostate enlargement (BPE) may generate inconsistent outcomes.

Objectives:
To assess the correlation between the scores from interviewer-assisted administration of the IPSS questionnaire and the IIEF-5 questionnaire in men with uncomplicated LUTS due to BPE.

Materials and Methods:
The IPPS and the IIEF-5 questionnaires were administered with interviewer assistance to a cross-section of men presenting to the hospital with symptoms of LUTS due to uncomplicated BPE. The demographics were ascertained, and the association between IPPS and IIEF-5 scores was determined using linear correlation.

Results:
There were 211 participants in 18 months with a mean age of 66.5 ± 9.5years. The mean prostate volume, prostate-specific antigen, peak flow rate, and post-void residual volume were 55.2 ± 10.1 mL, 3.1 ± 0.7 ng/mL, 20.8 ± 8.2 mL/s, and 38.1 ± 21.5 mL, respectively. One hundred and eighty-six participants (88.2%) attained post-primary level of formal education. Moderate LUTS was reported in 51.7% (n = 109), while severe LUTS was reported in 10.4% (n = 22) participants. The mean storage LUTS (sLUTS) score was 6.25 ± 2.84, the mean voiding LUTS (vLUTS) score was 4.27 ± 4.56, and the mean IPSS was 10.38 ± 6.44. The mean IIEF-5 score was 15.17 ± 6.09. There was a poor correlation between IIEF-5 and sLUTS (Spearman rho –0.02; P = 0.77), vLUTS (Spearman rho –0.058; P = 0.403), IPSS scores (Spearman rho –0.048; P = 0.49), as well as with quality of life (QoL) preferences (F 1.722; P = 0.117).

Conclusions:
Interviewer-assisted IIEF-5 scores do not relate with sLUTS, vLUTS IPSS, and QoL due to LUTS, as is the case with reports on self-administered IIEF-5 scores.
A Retrospective Audit of Placental Weight and Fetal Outcome at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Oluwole Ayodeji A. , Omisakin Sunday I. , Ugwu Aloy O. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
The placenta is an organ unique to mammals that connects the developing fetus to the uterine wall. The placenta supplies the fetus with oxygen and nutrients and allows fetal waste to be disposed of effectively via maternal circulation.

Objective:
The objective of this study is to determine the relationship between placenta weight at delivery and fetal outcomes.

Materials and Methods:
This was a retrospective study carried out between January 2022 and December 2023 at the labor ward of the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Idi-Araba, Lagos, Nigeria.

Results:
The mean age of the women was 32.5 (3.4) years. The majority of the women were between 20 and 34 years of age. The mean placental weight was 657.5 (221.5) g. Maternal obesity and increasing parity were significantly associated with larger placenta weight (P = 0.04 and 0.01, respectively). Heavier placentas were also associated with fetal macrosomia and poor Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration (APGAR) scores at 5 min (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:
This study concludes that a heavier placenta is associated with increasing parity, more operative delivery, bigger newborns, and a higher placenta-birth weight ratio.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of COVID-19 Prevention among Medical Undergraduates of a Higher Institution in Enugu Metropolis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Okereke Promise U. , Chiedozie Chiedozie Emmanuel C. , Chiwetalu Chinedu , Ogamba Nzubechukwu , Okpechukwu Chidubem P. , Nnegboh Chukwunonso P. , Orie Orie Daniel U. , Umah Victor 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, has posed a global health crisis since its emergence in late 2019.

Objectives:
To assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to COVID-19 prevention among medical undergraduates in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, involving undergraduate medical students from the University of Nigeria, Enugu, and Ituku-Ozalla campuses. A total of 450 participants were recruited through convenience sampling, and a structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The questionnaire covered sociodemographic information, COVID-19 knowledge, attitudes, and preventive practices. Data were analyzed using the Social Package for Social Science version 28, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05.

Results:
The majority of participants demonstrated good knowledge of COVID-19 prevention (89.6%), with significant associations observed between knowledge and the level of study (P = 0.001). A significant relationship was also noted between knowledge and attitude (P = 0.000). In terms of practice, 24.2% of medical students reported good COVID-19 prevention practices. Additionally, a majority of participants (n = 405; 90%) had not been vaccinated against COVID-19, largely influenced by vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusion:
Efforts should focus on transforming knowledge into positive attitudes and encouraging better COVID-19 preventive practices among medical undergraduates. Addressing vaccine hesitancy through targeted education and awareness campaigns is imperative to mitigate the risks associated with the pandemic and potential future waves.
Effect of Kinesthetic-based Perceptual Integrative Games on Visual Perception and Academic Performance in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Kumar M. Arun , Nagalakshmi P. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Children learn everything through play and games. Visual perceptual skills are prerequisites for other areas of functioning, such as academic skills, activities of daily living, play, and leisure activities. Hence, visual perception can be improved using kinesthetic movement-based perceptual integrative games, as the children will be more interested in games rather than doing activities.

Objective:
The study aimed to identify the effect of kinesthetic-based perceptual integrative games on visual perception and academic performance in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).

Study Design:
Quasi-experimental study design was used.

Methods:
Fifty children diagnosed with mild and moderate ASD were selected based on convenient sampling. The experimental group (n = 25) received the kinesthetic-based perceptual integrative games for 36 sessions, 45 min per session, while the control group (n = 25) received conventional occupational therapy for the same period. Beery–Buktenica Developmental Test of Visual-Motor Integration (Berry VMI) scale and Academic Performance Rating Scale (APRS) were used.

Results:
The result revealed that the kinesthetic-based perceptual integrative games significantly improved visual perception (P = 0.042, 95% confidence level (CL) range 13.326–0.846) and academic performance (P = 0.001, 95% CL range of − 8.3718–−2.1882) compared to conventional occupational therapy but there was no correlation between the APRS and Berry VMI (P = 0.114).

Conclusion:
The kinesthetic-based perceptual integrative games intervention improved the visual perceptual skills and academic performance of children with ASD in this study. Hence, it can be used as a new therapeutic modality in treating children with ASD and other forms of disorders who have deficits in visual perception and academic skills.
EBV-triggered secondary macrophage activation syndrome in the backdrop of lupus in an adult
Authors: Gohri Jay , Satish Suchitha , Muniz Joshua P , Arellano Martha 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACT
Macrophage activating syndrome (MAS) is a potentially life-threatening condition falling under the spectrum of secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis, in the backdrop of rheumatological conditions. In this case of a middle-aged man, we see how an initial Epstein Barr virus infection triggered a chain of events, which after serial monitoring of labs was promptly diagnosed as MAS and treated appropriately, resulting in overall clinical improvement of the patient.
Tuberculosis-induced Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Authors: Biswal Shreya , Chatterjee Prasun 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is a rare disorder characterized by antibodies against one’s own red blood cells, often difficult to diagnose and treat in the elderly. It can be secondary to an infection, drug, or a myeloproliferative disorder. We report a rare case of tuberculosis (TB)-induced AIHA in an older woman. A 70-year-old woman complained of progressive weakness, weight loss, and abdominal pain over 6 months. Examination revealed anemia, jaundice, and splenomegaly. Routine blood investigations showed pancytopenia and Coombs test that was positive for autoantibodies. Workup for autoimmune disease like systemic lupus erythematosis was negative. Lymphoma, disseminated TB, and lymphoproliferative disorders were considered. Bone marrow biopsy was reported as normal. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was isolated from the bronchoalveolar lavage. A diagnosis of autoimmune hemolytic anemia secondary to disseminated TB was made. She was treated with steroids and antitubercular therapy, which improved her health and laboratory parameters. A positron emission tomography–computed tomography showed the resolution of splenic lesions and reduced metabolic activity of mediastinal and abdominal lymph nodes.
Impact of Frailty on Omani Older Adults: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using the Multidimensional Prognostic Index in Primary Health Care
Authors: Chaouacha Chefi Ben , Al Farsi Yahya , Al-Reesi Hamed 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
Frailty, a state of diminished physiological reserve and increased vulnerability to stressors, is common among geriatric Omani patients attending primary health-care settings. Frailty has been shown to be a dominant predictor of multiple adverse health outcomes such as falls, functional disability, delirium, health-care utilization, and all-cause mortality.

Objective:
We aimed to explore the relationship between frailty and adverse health outcomes in Omani older adults.

Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a single center, from April 2020 to December 2022, involving 197 participants aged 65 years and older. Frailty was determined using the Multidimensional Prognostic Index (MPI). The adverse outcomes under investigation included a history of falling, utilization of primary health-care services, and all-cause mortality. We calculated unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios (ORs), along with their corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs), to evaluate the relationships between frailty and these adverse outcomes.

Results:
In the adjusted logistic regression model, frail older patients exhibited an elevated risk of falling in comparison to nonfrail patients (OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 0.68, 3.05; OR: 5.94, 95% CI: 1.49, 23.69, respectively). Notably, frailty status demonstrated a significant difference in terms of primary health-care utilization (P = 0.016), particularly for prefrailty (mean ± standard deviation 18.8 ± 10.8). Furthermore, a weak positive correlation was identified between MPI means and the level of primary health-care utilization (r = 0.229, P < 0.001). In addition, it was observed that prefrailty and frailty significantly heightened the risk of all-cause mortality (OR: 1.45, 95% CI: 0.16, 13.30; OR: 27.96, 95% CI: 3.37, 232.24, respectively).

Conclusion:
Prefrailty and frailty exert detrimental effects on older adults. It is imperative to focus on addressing prefrailty and frailty within primary health care to mitigate adverse outcomes and enhance the overall well-being of older adults.
Prevalence and Determinants of Postischemic Stroke Cognitive Impairment in Older Persons
Authors: Thomas Alisha S. , Viggeswarpu Surekha , Prabhakar Appaswamy Thirumal , Divya K. 
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Background:
It is essential to identify the burden of poststroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) and to frame strategies for its prevention and progression in a developing country.

Aim:
The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence and identify the risk factors of PSCI in older persons who survived an ischemic stroke.

Materials and Methods:
Patients with acute stroke satisfying the inclusion criteria were recruited. Clinical and demographic data, baseline functional capacity, and cognition as assessed by the Barthel index and the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly, respectively, were collected. The patients were then administered the Confusion Assessment Method, Mini-Cog, Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and Frontal Assessment Battery within the 1st week of stroke and were reassessed at 1 month. The diagnosis of PSCI was done based on MoCA score within 1 week and at 1 month after stroke, and the analysis of risk factors for PSCI was done based on MoCA score at 1 month.

Results:
The prevalence of PSCI in this study was 63.8% within the 1st week and 71.8% at 1 month after the stroke. Lower educational and occupational status, higher Charlson Comorbidity Index, presence of delirium during the 1st week after stroke, poststroke depression, higher National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score, and higher Modified Rankin Scale score were found to be risk factors for the development of PSCI on univariate analysis. Lower socioeconomic status was found to be a risk factor on both univariate and multivariate analyses.

Conclusion:
The prevalence of PSCI was 71.8% at 1 month after stroke. Lower socioeconomic status was found to be a risk factor for PSCI. Larger studies are needed to identify various modifiable risk factors, to improve the quality of life in older stroke survivors.
Nepal’s Geriatric Health Strategy 2021–2030: A Narrative Review
Authors: Kandel Ramesh 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
Nepal’s national geriatric health strategy 2021–2030 focuses on enhancing the health and well-being of senior citizens by providing comprehensive health services and promoting healthy aging. The strategy addresses the increasing prevalence of chronic conditions and multimorbidities among the older people, emphasizing the need for tailored health-care services. Key priorities include improving access to quality health services, promoting social health insurance, and strengthening family and community support systems. The strategy also aims to integrate geriatric health issues into the national health system, enhance the capacity of health facilities, and ensure gender-equitable and inclusive services. By fostering multisectoral coordination and collaboration, the strategy supports Nepal’s pursuit of universal health coverage and aims to build state capacity to support healthy aging, ensuring that senior citizens can lead active and quality lives.
A Rare Case of Castleman Variant of POEMS Syndrome
Authors: Dewangan Gevesh Chand , Singhal Sunny , Bansal Rishav , Chakrawarty Avinash 
Published: September 2024

Abstract
POEMS syndrome is a rare multisystemic disease, characterized by polyneuropathy, organomegaly, endocrinopathy, monoclonal protein, and skin changes. The presence of polyneuropathy and monoclonal plasma cell proliferation is mandatory for the diagnosis of typical POEMS syndrome. However, some patients lack one of the mandatory features and are classified as the variants of POEMS syndrome. A 61-year-old male presented with the clinical picture of progressive numbness in both lower extremities and weakness in all four extremities for a 6-month duration associated with bilateral axillary lymphadenopathies, pedal edema, clubbing, and unintentional weight loss of 15 kg in 6 months. A nerve conduction study showed severe sensorimotor polyneuropathy of demyelinating type in all four extremities. A lymph node biopsy showed Castleman disease, and the computed tomography scan was suggestive of multiple osteosclerotic lesions. A diagnosis of the Castleman variant of POEMS syndrome was made, and the patient was treated with Bortezomib-based therapy with improvement in his symptoms on follow-up at 1 year. Due to the lack of definite treatment guidelines for this disease, the information provided through case reports and case series becomes very important for the treatment of such patients leading to the resolution of polyneuropathy and the maintenance of functionality in patients.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Breastfeeding among South Indians: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Sarojini Subbarayan , Kesudeen Mohamed , Saranya S. , Maikandaan C. J. , Srinivasan Jeyaram 
Published: September 2024

Introduction:
Research shows that exclusively breastfed infants have a 13% lower mortality risk. However, only 37% of infants in Low and middle income country (LMIC) are exclusively breastfed.

Materials and Methods:
This cross-sectional study was conducted in a Chennai hospital’s outpatient department, focusing on pediatrics. The study commenced after obtaining ethical clearance (99/IEC-SMMCHRI). Breastfeeding knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) scales were developed by modifying existing KAP tools. The KAP questionnaire was based on the World Health Organization. The same was applied to 250 consenting mothers.

Results:
Participants had a mean age of 27 years, with the youngest mother at 19 and the oldest at 40. Forty-one percent had finished high school, and 37% had completed undergraduate studies. Eighty-eight percent had strong breastfeeding comprehension, and 96% had a favorable attitude. However, only 32% exclusively breastfed. The study found significant correlations between knowledge and behavior (χ2 = 4.27, P = 0.04) and between attitude and behavior (χ2 = 5.69, P = 0.017). Mothers with adequate knowledge tended to follow recommended feeding practices, and those with a positive attitude displayed good practices.

Conclusion:
Despite positive attitudes toward breastfeeding, the cultural practice of introducing prelacteal food hinders exclusive breastfeeding, leading to negative outcomes. While there have been some improvements in exclusive breastfeeding rates, addressing this disparity could reduce child mortality rates. The outcomes of the research will be highly beneficial for primary care physicians in their efforts to promote exclusive breastfeeding among expectant mothers.
Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Academic Studies and Behavioral Pattern of Undergraduate Medical Students of Delhi
Authors: Dhamnetiya Deepak , Goel Shelesh Kumar , Goyal Ritik , Abhishek Kumar , Hitesh Tanishq , Agarwal Komal , Jha Ravi Prakash 
Published: September 2024

Introduction:
The novel coronavirus pandemic is currently a worldwide public health emergency. This study aimed to assess the impact of lockdown on academic studies and behavioral patterns of undergraduate medical students of Delhi and to assess the association of academic studies and behavioral patterns with sex and academic year.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted in September 2020 through a prevalidated, semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using a statistical package for social sciences (version 16.0; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA). Mann–Whitney U and the Kruskal–Wallis test were applied to check the significant difference in median of 2 and more than two independent groups, respectively. A P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:
Of 163 students, 109 (66.9%) were male, and 54 (33.1%) were female. Ninety-seven (59.5%) students prefer regular classroom study, and 7 (4.2%) prefer online live classes. There is a statistically significant difference for study hours of males as compared to females before lockdown (P = 0.024) and for students of 2nd year and 1st year also between 3rd year and 1st year (P = 0.015) and for the completion of tests/assignments on time during lockdown (P = 0.000) for 2nd year and 3rd year, also 2nd year-final year and 1st year-final year students.

Conclusion:
Medical education is highly skilled and practical; thus, it cannot be learned through online lectures, and students are losing interest in online lectures. Students’ behavioral patterns altered in lockdown as sitting idle at home increased social media usage and food intake.