Pre- and apnoeic high-flow oxygenation for rapid sequence intubation in the emergency department (the Pre-AeRATE trial): A multicentre randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION@#Evidence regarding the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygenation for preoxygenation and apnoeic oxygenation is conflicting. Our objective is to evaluate whether HFNC oxygenation for preoxygenation and apnoeic oxygenation maintains higher oxygen saturation (SpO2) during rapid sequence intubation (RSI) in ED patients compared to usual care.@*METHODS@#This was a multicentre, open-label, randomised controlled trial in adult ED patients requiring RSI. Patients were randomly assigned 1:1 to either intervention (HFNC oxygenation at 60L/min) group or control (non-rebreather mask for preoxygenation and nasal prongs of at least 15L/min oxygen flow for apnoeic oxygenation) group. Primary outcome was lowest SpO2 during the first intubation attempt. Secondary outcomes included incidence of SpO2 falling below 90% and safe apnoea time.@*RESULTS@#One hundred and ninety patients were included, with 97 in the intervention and 93 in the control group. Median lowest SpO2 during the first intubation attempt was 100% in both groups. Incidence of SpO2 falling below 90% was lower in the intervention group (15.5%) compared to the control group (22.6%) (adjusted relative risk=0.68, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.37-1.25). Post hoc quantile regression analysis showed that the first quartile of lowest SpO2 during the first intubation attempt was greater by 5.46% (95% CI 1.48-9.45%, P=0.007) in the intervention group.@*CONCLUSION@#Use of HFNC for preoxygenation and apnoeic oxygenation, when compared to usual care, did not improve lowest SpO2 during the first intubation attempt but may prolong safe apnoea time.

Epidemiological study of dengue fever in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan / Estudo epidemiológico da dengue no distrito Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Paquistão

Dengue is a viral disease which is serious health concern from last few decades and the infection transmitted through mosquito bite into human. This study was conducted to carry out prevalence of dengue fever in District Swabi. A total of 196 blood sample were collected from patients with age ranges (0-80 years) having dengue fever on the basis of physical symptoms from Bacha Khan Medical Complex Swabi during August to October 2017. Serological test were performed for detection of IgM, IgG and NS1 (Non structural protein antigen of virus) against dengue. Out of total 196 confirmed dengue cases the most prone gender was male 123(62%) while 73(38%) were female. Among the age groups; 21-30 years group 62 (31.6%) was found the most predominated age group. The higly affected areas in district Swabi were Topi (40.8%) followed by Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8.2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5.1%), Shah Mansoor (5.1%), Gohati (4.1%), and Chota Lahore (3.6%). Therefore, the health department should take actions by educating the public about basic cleanliness of the environment. The community should be encouraged to participate in the control of such vector based diseases/infections.

A dengue é uma doença viral que é um sério problema de saúde das últimas décadas e a infecção transmitida através da picada de mosquito em humanos. Este estudo foi realizado para realizar a prevalência da dengue no distrito de Swabi. Foram coletadas 196 amostras de sangue de pacientes com faixa etária (0 a 80 anos) com dengue com base nos sintomas físicos do Complexo Médico Bacha Khan de Swabi, no período de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram realizados testes sorológicos para detecção de IgM, IgG e NS1 (antígeno proteico não estrutural do vírus) contra a dengue. Do total de 196 casos confirmados de dengue, o sexo mais propenso foi o masculino 123 (62%), enquanto 73 (38%) eram do sexo feminino. Entre as faixas etárias; A faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos 62 (31,6%) foi a faixa etária mais predominante. As áreas altamente afetadas no distrito de Swabi foram Topi (40,8%), seguidas por Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8,2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5,1%), Shah Mansoor (5,1%), Gohati (4,1%) e Chota Lahore (3,6%). Portanto, o departamento de saúde deve tomar ações educando o público sobre a limpeza básica do meio ambiente. A comunidade deve ser incentivada a participar do controle de tais doenças / infecções baseadas em vetores.

Epidemiological study of dengue fever in District Swabi, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Abstract Dengue is a viral disease which is serious health concern from last few decades and the infection transmitted through mosquito bite into human. This study was conducted to carry out prevalence of dengue fever in District Swabi. A total of 196 blood sample were collected from patients with age ranges (0-80 years) having dengue fever on the basis of physical symptoms from Bacha Khan Medical Complex Swabi during August to October 2017. Serological test were performed for detection of IgM, IgG and NS1 (Non structural protein antigen of virus) against dengue. Out of total 196 confirmed dengue cases the most prone gender was male 123(62%) while 73(38%) were female. Among the age groups; 21-30 years group 62 (31.6%) was found the most predominated age group. The higly affected areas in district Swabi were Topi (40.8%) followed by Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8.2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5.1%), Shah Mansoor (5.1%), Gohati (4.1%), and Chota Lahore (3.6%). Therefore, the health department should take actions by educating the public about basic cleanliness of the environment. The community should be encouraged to participate in the control of such vector based diseases/infections.

Resumo A dengue é uma doença viral que é um sério problema de saúde das últimas décadas e a infecção transmitida através da picada de mosquito em humanos. Este estudo foi realizado para realizar a prevalência da dengue no distrito de Swabi. Foram coletadas 196 amostras de sangue de pacientes com faixa etária (0 a 80 anos) com dengue com base nos sintomas físicos do Complexo Médico Bacha Khan de Swabi, no período de agosto a outubro de 2017. Foram realizados testes sorológicos para detecção de IgM, IgG e NS1 (antígeno proteico não estrutural do vírus) contra a dengue. Do total de 196 casos confirmados de dengue, o sexo mais propenso foi o masculino 123 (62%), enquanto 73 (38%) eram do sexo feminino. Entre as faixas etárias; A faixa etária de 21 a 30 anos 62 (31,6%) foi a faixa etária mais predominante. As áreas altamente afetadas no distrito de Swabi foram Topi (40,8%), seguidas por Main Swabi (27%), Maneri (8,2%), Marghuz (6%), Shawa Ada (5,1%), Shah Mansoor (5,1%), Gohati (4,1%) e Chota Lahore (3,6%). Portanto, o departamento de saúde deve tomar ações educando o público sobre a limpeza básica do meio ambiente. A comunidade deve ser incentivada a participar do controle de tais doenças / infecções baseadas em vetores.

Seroprevalence of transfusion transmitted infections among different blood group donors at blood bank LUMHS, Hyderabad

Objectives: To study the prevalence of HBsAg, Anti-HCV, HIV, Syphilis and Malaria in blood donors

Methods: This is a cross sectional descriptive study, conducted at Blood bank and Transfusion center at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences [LUMHS] Hyderabad, during the period from January, 2014 to June, 2015.A total of 4683 blood donors were screened for HBsAg, Anti-HCV and HIV on Architect 20001 [manufactured by Abbott], employing chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassay [CMIA]. For Syphilis, VDRL ICT kits were used and Malaria parasite was screen through MP slides. Blood grouping was performed by both forward and reverse methods

Results: This study showed a high frequency of HBsAg, VDRL and malaria positivity among the O-ve blood group donors, i.e. 3.70%, 9.25% and 0.61% respectively. Blood group B-ve individuals were commonly infected with HCV [12.5%] as compared with all other blood group donors. HIV is more commonly reported in A+ve blood group individuals. Blood group O+ve is more prevalent [37.41 %]

Conclusion: High frequency of HCV infection in blood donors advocates implementation of strict screening policy for donors and public awareness campaigns about preventive measures to reduce the spread of this infection as well as other transfusion transmissible infections

Phytochemical screening and assessment of analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hematological properties of the fruit of Berberis baluchistanica

Traditionally Berberis species have been used as anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, analgesic and anti-anemic drugs. This study was aimed to determine chemical constituents and to assess analgesic, anti-inflammatory and hematological effects of the crude extract of the berries of Berberis baluchistanica to verify these folkloric claims. Phytochemical screening, carried out by using different chemical reagents and techniques like Thin Layer Chromatography [TLC] and Fourier Transform Infra-Red [FTIR] indicated presence of flavonoids, saponins, phytosterols and carbohydrates including reducing sugars. Analgesic and anti-inflammatory activities were assessed on mice by using acetic acid induced writhing method and formalin method. Potent anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects were observed during these experiments. The extract also showed anti anemic effect as it increased the levels of hemoglobin and red blood cells significantly. Increase in the platelet count was also noted. The extract of the berries was used at oral doses of 300 and 500 mg/kg during experiments. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities were determined by comparing with the standard i.e. aspirin 300 mg/kg. Both doses produced significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic activities at P-0.05. These activities were seemingly attributable to flavonoid and saponin contents of the drug. These results justify the folkloric claims that the drug could be used as good anti-inflammatory, antirehumatic, analgesic and anti-anemic drug. However, further chemical investigations on the drug are suggested for isolation and identification of compounds that could be safer and more effective than the currently available medicines in treating these disorders

Cardamom extract induces cell proliferation by increasing potassium currents in NIH3T3 cell line

Amommum subulatum [Roxb.] or Cardamom extract is known to have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects towards many gastrointestinal related problems. However, uptill now different fractions of cardamom extract on fibroblasts with respect to potassium channel activity have not been investigated. Therefore, present study investigated the effects of different tractions of cardamom extract on potassium channels in non-tumor NIH3T3 cell line. Phytochemical analysis of hydroalcoholic, n-hexane, butane and ethyl acetate fractions of cardamom extracts were purified and isolated by thin layer chromatography [TLC]. 3T3 cells were cultured and incubated with hydroalcohol [1-2 Hg/ml], n-hexane [1 microg/ml], butane [2 microg/ml] and ethyl acetate [1-2 microg/ml] for 5 hrs at 37°C. Modulation in potassium currents were recorded by whole-cell patch clamp method. The data showed two constituents Cineol [CioHigO] and Terpinyl acetate [CioHi[7]OOCCH[3]] by TLC method. The present study shows that the constituents in n-hexane, hydro alcohol [1 [microg/ml] and ethyl acetate [2 microg/ml] significantly increased [p<0.01] the potassium outward rectifying currents from NIH3T3 cells when compared to untreated controls cells. Where as, butanol fraction [2 microg/ml] significantly decreased [p<0.01] the inward rectifying currents when compared to controls. Moreover hydroalcoholic and n-hexane fractions have increased the proliferation in 3T3 cell line. On the other hand butanol and ethyl acetate did not induce proliferation in 3T3 cells. Taken together, our data suggested that cardamom extract contains constituents that increased K[+] currents, cell migration and proliferation and are involved in wound healing

Effect of visfatin on the structure and immune levels in the small intestine of LPS-induced rats / Efecto de la visfatina sobre la estructura y los niveles de inmunidad en el intestino delgado de ratas inducidas por lipopolisacáridos

This study investigated the effects of visfatin on the structure and the immunity levels in the small intestine of LPS-induced rats. Forty Wistar male and female SPF rats were randomly and equally divided into four groups: the saline (control), vistfatin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), and visfatin+LPS co-stimulated. The functions of visfatin in the intestinal mucosal immunity were investigated by examining the variation of tissue structure, inflammation and immunity-related proteins in the intestine of immunologically stressed rats using HE staining, ELISA, immunohistochemistry and Western Blot. The results showed that, when compared with the control group, the visfatin-treated group showed a decrease in the intestinal villus height and width, and a significant increase in the levels of IL-6 and TNF-ð as well as Immunoglobulin A (IgA) positive cells. Additionally, when compared with the LPS-treated group, the visfatin+LPS co-stimulated group showed a decrease in the villus height and width as well as the levels of IL-6 and TNF-ð, and an increase in IgA levels, implying a shrinking response to LPS injection. All the results suggest that, under normal physiological conditions, visfatin disturbs the body's homeostasis and causes intestinal villus atrophy by increasing IgA expression. While under immune response conditions, LPS acts as an exogenous antigen to promote visfatin against LPS-induced inflammation by decreasing the expression of IgA. Under immune stress conditions, visfatin as an exogenous stimulus promotes the immune response by regulating the protein levels of IL-6, TNF-ð and IgA.

Este estudio investigó los efectos de la visfatina sobre la estructura y los niveles de inmunidad en el intestino delgado de ratas inducidas por lipopolisacáridos (LPS). Cuarenta ratas Wistar se dividieron aleatoriamente e igualmente en cuatro grupos: solución salina (control), vistafin, LPS y visfatina + LPS co-estimuladas. Las funciones de la visfatina en la inmunidad de la mucosa intestinal se investigaron mediante el examen de variación de la estructura del tejido, la inflamación y las proteínas relacionadas con la inmunidad en el intestino de ratas estresadas inmunológicamente; usando tinción HE, ELISA, inmunohistoquímica y Western Blot. Los resultados mostraron que, en comparación con el grupo control, el grupo tratado con visfatina presentó una disminución en la altura y ancho de las vellosidades intestinales, y un aumento significativo en los niveles de IL-6 y TNF-ð, así como inmunoglobulina A (IgA células positivas). Además, al comparar este grupo con el grupo tratado con LPS- el grupo visfatina + LPS co-estimulado mostró una disminución en la altura y ancho de las vellosidades, así como en los niveles de IL-6 y TNF-ð, y un aumento en los niveles de IgA, lo que implica reducción de una respuesta a la inyección LPS. Todos los resultados sugieren que, en condiciones fisiológicas normales, la visfatina perturba la homeostasis del cuerpo y provoca la atrofia de las vellosidades intestinales mediante el aumento de la expresión de IgA. Mientras que bajo condiciones de la respuesta inmune, LPS actúa como un antígeno exógeno para promover visfatina contra la inflamación inducida por LPS por la disminución de la expresión de IgA. En condiciones de estrés inmunológico, la visfatina como estímulo exógeno promueve la respuesta inmune mediante la regulación de los niveles de proteína de IL-6, TNF-ð e IgA.

Evaluation of hearing impairment in children of school going age

The timely identification of severity of hearing loss in school age children will decrease the morbidity and this morbidity can be corrected by timely treatment. Community-base cohort study. This study was conducted in ENT department of Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, KMC,Karachi from January 2011 to Jan 2012. The suspected cases were referred to the ENT department of Abbasi Shaheed Hospital adjoining schools and suspected cases of hearing difficulty noticed by the parents. After taking informed consent from both sexes and age ranges from 6-16 years were included in the study. This study shows male were slight more 54 patients. Highest number of patients was found in 13 years of age 16 patients i.e 16%. In 53 patients risk factor was present. Maximum number of children had moderate hearing loss 26 children [26%]. Early school going child with mild to moderate hearing loss is difficult to detect during routinr examination. Audiological screening is necessary for detection of hearing loss in early school going child

Ciprofloxacin; the frequent use in poultry and its consequences on human health

Fluoroquinolones are bactericidal agents that exhibit AUC/MIC dependent killing. In general, they are effective against Gram-negative organisms and some mycobacteria. Ciprofloxacin is the members of this group and its bactericidal action involves the impeding of enzyme topoisomerase II and IV. In human beings, this drug is recommended for a variety of infections including typhoid fever, chronic bacterial prostatitis, lower respiratory tract infections, skin infections, urinary tract infections, acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis, complicated intra-abdominal infections, infectious diarrhea, and uncomplicated cervical as well as urethral gonorrhea. The drug is as effective in animals as in humans, and is therefore used in animals as well. According to European health law and National Office of Animal Health [NOAH], UK, the statutory withdrawal period for veterinary medicinal products must not be less than 28 days for meat from poultry. The chicken used for meat purpose usually is of the age between 6 to 8 weeks, therefore the use of the drug must be discontinued by the age of 2 weeks. Whereas the age of chick at which it usually develops indicated diseases, is 3 weeks. In this situation, it is not possible to attain a withdrawal period of 28 days. Based on these observations, ciprofloxacin use may not be recommended in poultry for treatment of diseases as it may cause unnecessary exposure to humans while utilizing poultry meat and may lead to the development of drug resistance

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis; recurrent, severe enough to close the mouth

Hereditary gingival fibromatosis also referred to as idiopathic gingival hyperplasia, elephantiasis gingivae etc; is a rare hereditary localized or generalized condition, which represents as swelling of gingivae of varied degrees with no apparent cause. Swelling is usually firm, pink and usually no signs of inflammation if oral hygiene is up to fair. Condition may occur solitary or in a syndrome. Recent findings report a defect in the Son of seven less-1 gene on chromose 2p21-p22[HGF1] as a possible cause. This case report presents a severe HGF case, importance of earlier management [as it may unable the patient to close their mouth], possible gravitational role in enlargement of swellings and its proper remedy

Functional outcome of the minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis for the supracondylar fractures of femur using dynamic condylar screw

To assess the functional outcomes of minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis [MIPO] for the extra-articular and undisplaced intra-articular supracondylar fractures of femur using dynamic condylar screw [DCS]. Descriptive case series. Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Karachi, from April 2009 to October 2011. Patients were enrolled from accident and emergency and OPD. OPD follow-ups were carried out at 2nd, 6th, 12th, 18th, and 24th weeks, then every 2nd month for the assessment of rate of union and range of motion of knee joint. A total of 83 patients were included. There were 55 males and 28 females. Male to female ratio was 1.96:1. Patients were 25-50 year of age. Seventy four [89.2%] of the injuries were caused by road traffic accident and 9 [10.8%] due to fall from height. Forty six [55.4%] patients had fractures on right side and 37 [44.6%] on left side. Radiological union was achieved in 79 [95.2%] patients at an average period of 19.05 weeks. The radiological bony union was achieved in 16-18 weeks in 25[30.1%] patients. Four patients developed nonunion for which bone graft from iliac crest was placed after 24 weeks. Two achieved union in one year follow up while two were lost to follow up. At end of one year, forty-three [51.8%] cases had knee flexion from zero to 90° - 120°, 25 [30.1%] cases had knee flexion of > 120° and remaining 15 [18.1%] cases had knee flexion of <90°. At the end of one year satisfactory [knee motion > 90°] functional outcome as achieved in 68 [81.9%] cases. High rates of both radiological union [95.2%] and satisfactory [knee motion > 90°] functional outcome [81.9%] were achieved in large number of cases

Pathological findings of chronic supparative otitis media in tertiary care hospital

Objectives: To see the clinico-pathological pattern of findings in the chronic supparative otitis media [CSOM] during surgery

Study Design: A prospective observational study

Place And Duration: This study was conducted in Karachi Medical and Dental College and Abbasi Shaheed Hospital during the period of October 2006 to October 2010

Methodology: For this study, 288 patients were selected. After complete history, examination and relevant investigations surgery was performed and intra-operative findings of middle ear cleft were noted

Results: Total number of patients selected were 288, in which female were dominating slightly with 54.1%. Maximum incidence was noted between the ages of 16-30 years of age in 180 patients [62.5%]. 140 cases [48.61%] had no ossicles damage while 148 cases[51.38%] had one or more ossicles damage. Granulation tissue found in 99 patients [34.37%], while cholesteatoma found in 77 patients [26.73%]

Conclusion: Pathological changes varies from simple mucosal edema to extensive destruction of the middle ear cleft

Prevalence of contact lens use and its complications among students of Gulf Medical University, Ajman

Increase in cosmetic and prescription use of lenses is proportional to lens- related complications. Lens users in the UAE are particularly at risk of infection due to the foreign bodies and dust particles in the air during occurrences of sandstorms. To estimate the prevalence of contact lens use among university students, to assess the frequency of complications in contact lens users based on the type of lenses used, to assess the level of compliance amongst users regarding hygiene practices and to compare the frequency of complications between contact lens users and non-users. A cross sectional study was done among 241 students of Gulf Medical University, Ajman. The study included students from all the different faculties. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed, after approval by the Ethical Committee. All the data obtained from the questionnaires were entered in Microsoft Excel and analyzed using SPSS 20 software. Of the students participating 26.3% were contact lens users. Of the contact lens users, 41% used daily wear contact lenses. Contact lens users suffered most frequently from red eyes, dry eyes, burning and itching. 23.2% non-contact lens users showed dry eyes. 73.3% of contact lens users were found to practice safe hygiene and handling of contact lenses. Contact lens use is not highly prevalent amongst students. The most common eye complications experienced by the students were red eyes, dry eyes, burning and itching. Dry eyes were a frequently experienced symptom by both non-contact lens users and contact lens users. The majority of the students practiced safe handling

Assessment of diabetes knowledge among adolescents in selected Iranian schools in UAE

To assess the level of knowledge of students aged 13-19 years in selected Iranian schools in UAE about diabetes and to identify probable misconceptions with regard to this disease among the participants. A cross sectional study was done including 200 female and male students in the age group between 13 to 19 years in selected Iranian schools. A scoring system was used by which a score of 1 or zero was given to each correct or incorrect response respectively. The total correct score was used as criteria to assess the total knowledge of students that was categorized into three parts [good, average and low]. The knowledge was also categorized into 5 domains [general knowledge, epidemiology, risk factors/ complication, investigation/ screening and lifestyle/ treatment]. Because of variation in number of items included in each domain, percentage of correct responses for these domains were compared The percentage of correct knowledge scores for the general knowledge, epidemiology of diabetes, risk factors/ complication, investigation/ screening and lifestyle/ treatment domains are 60.5%, 47.8%, 52.5%, 51.5% and 56.4% respectively. Poor knowledge scores is identified among 18% of the participant [n=34]. Poor knowledge scores are most commonly observed in males compared to females [2%Vs 14%], and in younger age adolescents [> 15 Yrs] compared to older age [> 15 Yrs]. The most common misconception is that diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar and sweets. High lack of knowledge in all knowledge domains. Poor knowledge is observed in 18% of the adolescents. Most common misconception is that sugar intake cause diabetes

Exchange nailing for delayed or non union of diaphyseal femoral fractures

To determine the effectiveness of exchange nailing for delayed or nonunion of diaphyseal femur fractures. Descriptive case series. Department of Orthopaedics Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Center Karachi, from March 2009 to February 2012. All patients with delayed or hypertrophic nonunion of diaphyseal femur fractures diagnosed on clinical and radiological examination, were included. Patients with infective nonunion, segmental fractures or fractures with bone loss and open fractures were excluded. Exchange nailing was performed. A total of 36 patients were managed which included 27 males and 9 females. Twenty-four [66%] patients were between 30 - 40 year of age. Left femur was predominantly involved [56%]. The non union involved middle third in 61% cases. Following surgery union was achieved in 33 [92%] cases. In 14 patients union occurred between 4 to 6 months. Superficial infection occurred in 2 patients. Exchange nailing is the one of best options for delayed or nonunion of femoral diaphyseal fractures.

Sleep quality among university students in the UAE

Identify the factors affecting quality of sleep, and assess the impact of low quality sleep on the daily activities of students. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was done, using self-administered questionnaires. Sleep quality was assessed using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index [PSQI]. Data was collected, sleep quality was determined, and then data was analyzed using SPSS v.17 software. This study included 290 university students of different majors aged 17-29 years. Analysis of sleep perception revealed that 67.2% of students suffered from poor sleep. Non-smokers showed a better sleeping quality [25%] than smokers [75%]. Of the students who never missed any class 62% had a good pattern. Non-users of social networking, such as Facebook, MSN, and twitter, had a better sleep than users. Poor sleep quality was strongly associated with higher anxiety level [p<0.001], and more morning classes missed [p<0.014]. Most university students suffer from poor sleep quality which is directly influencing their behavior and anxiety levels

Knowledge, attitude and practice study on breastfeeding among mothers in Ajman, UAE

Assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of breastfeeding among women attending the Gulf Medical College Hospital and Research Center in Ajman, UAE. A cross sectional study was conducted between February 2012 and April 2012. The study included 332 mothers who had at least one child under 5 years of age and who attended GMCHRC during the study period. A validated, pilot-tested, self-administered questionnaire was used which included statements dealing with information on knowledge, attitude and practice of participants with regard to breast feeding in addition to demographic data. To assess knowledge and attitudes of participants, the percentage of correct responses for each question was considered. Inadequate knowledge [gap in the knowledge] or attitude was identified if <60% of participants had correct response for each question. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 19. Chi square test was done to find the significance of association between variables with less than 0.05 level of significance. adequate knowledge about most of breast feeding facts and benefits was identified, except for the statements that lactation helps losing weight that was gained during pregnancy, the hormones released during breast feeding help in bringing back the uterus to its normal physiology after child birth, and the ideal duration of excusive breastfeeding is six months. More than 60% of the participants responded positive to all attitudes questions except to one on their willingness to attend classes for education on breast feeding [77.9% of the participants did not want to attend]. Only 46% of the participants exclusively breastfed their babies in the first six months. Higher proportion of women who had received antenatal education during their pregnancy exclusively breast fed their babies, but the association was not statistically significant. A higher frequency of exclusive breastfeeding was observed with low parity. Higher frequency of breast feeding was noticed among women who had not experienced any difficulties in breastfeeding [P>0.05] and who had not sought medical advice on problems during breast feeding [p<0.05]. Family and friends were identified to be the main source of information with regard to breastfeeding [reported by 74.7%]. Participants had adequate knowledge with regard to the benefits of breast feeding and those who received antenatal education practiced exclusive breast feeding. For the majority the source of information was family and friends

Bone mineral density of patients attending a clinic in Dubai

The study was conducted to assess the frequency of osteoporosis and to test factors that can have relationship with BMD. A cross sectional study was done during the period from October 2011 to February 2012. Adults [age >20 years] who attended an osteoporosis clinic in Dubai were included in the study. A validated pilot-tested questionnaire was used as a tool for data collection. The questionnaire included statements on history of chronic diseases, and participants' habits related to smoking, exercise, and intake of calcium supplementation, in addition to demographic data. Bone Mineral Density [BMD] had been assessed at the left proximal femur using dual energy x-ray absorptiometery [DXA]. The results of DEXA were taken from the participants' records and included in the analysis. WHO criteria were used to classify patients into normal BMD, osteoporosis and osteopenia. Analysis was performed with the use of SPSS software version 19, and Chi-square was done to test the association between variables. P values <0.05 were considered significant. Of the 135 participants, 54.8% [n=74] were males and 45.2% [n=61] were females. The frequency of normal BMD, osteopenia and osteoporosis was 37.8%, 43.7%, and 18.5% respectively. The frequency of osteoporosis among age groups <50 years, 50-59 years, and >/= 60 years were 2.6%, 12.7% and 57.7% respectively. Osteoporosis was more common among females [21.3%] than among males [16.2%], and among smokers [35.7%] than non- smokers [14%]. A lower frequency of osteoporosis was noticed among patients taking calcium supplements of doing exercise compared to those who were not having these life styles [10.8% vs 27.9%] and [8.8% vs 25.3%] respectively. A significant association was found between BMD and age [<0.001], history of renal diseases [<0.001], history of calcium supplement intake [p<0.001], exercise habit [p<0.05], and smoking habit [p<009]. The frequency of osteoporosis was 18.5%, and it was most common among the older age [ >/= 60 years] participants [57.7%]. Bone Mineral Density [BMD] was significantly associated with age [p<0.001], history of calcium supplement intake [p<0.001], exercise habit [p<0.05], smoking habit [p<0.01] and history of renal diseases [p<0.001]

Prevalence of sports injuries among high school students in United Arab Emirates

The study intended to assess the prevalence of sports injuries among high school students. This cross sectional study was carried out using data from 300 students aged 9 to 18 years at Dubai International School and Universal American High School, UAE. A self-administered questionnaire was employed with open- and close-ended questions to collect the data. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 19.0 and Chi-square test was applied to find the association between variables. The study population included 43.7% males and 56.3% females. Most of the students [74.3%] belonged to 13-15 year age group. More than half the respondents [58.3%] were in Grade 9. Over half the students [67.6%] had been injured during sports activities, the most common type of injury was sprains [34.5%]. Chi square test showed a significant association between history injury and participation [p<0.03]. Upon being injured medical treatment [66.7%] had been used as the most common option among the students. Sports injuries are common among the high school students. Therefore, awareness of possible sport injuries should be included in the school health programs

effects of physical exercise on mental health among adults in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

To study the frequency of anxiety, depression amongst those who exercise regularly and those who do not. A cross-sectional study was conducted in different gyms and health clubs in Ajman during March 2012. A self-administered questionnaire was completed by 350 people aged 18 to 65 years selected using a convenient sampling technique. Females [55.0%] are more likely to be anxious than men [46.4%]. Females [39.9%] are also more likely to be depressed compared to males [26.4%]. Chi square test showed anxiety levels were significantly increased in non-exercisers compared to exerciser [p value <0.015. Individuals that exercised had a lower prevalence of depression [28.9%] than non-exercisers [41.8%]. Physical exercise activity was significantly associated with decreased anxiety level and decreased depression. Results suggest the need for educating on the positive health effects of exercise