Knowledge, attitudes and practices of resident doctors and interns on safe blood transfusion practices: a survey-based study

ABSTRACT Introduction: The knowledge of clinicians regarding blood transfusion services may impact patient care and transfusion outcome. The wide variation in transfusion practices among clinicians leads to inappropriate blood product usage and jeopardizes patient safety. Hence, this survey study aimed to assess knowledge, attitude and practice among the residents and interns of safe blood transfusion. Methods: The online survey was based on self-administered questionnaires of three sections: 1. Demography; 2. Knowledge, and; 3. Attitude and Practice. One point was assigned for the correct response of each question in every section. The knowledge score was further categorized into three categories, depending on the points obtained. The participants were also divided into four groups, depending on their experience. The Kruskal-Wallis test was applied to determine the difference of knowledge and practice scores in three designated groups of residents and interns. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered to be significant. Result: A total of 247 residents and interns participated in this study. Thirteen participants had an incomplete response. Out of 234 participants, Senior Residents (SR), Junior Residents (JR), and interns were 70, 96 and 68 participants, respectively. The knowledge scores of interns were significantly low, as compared to SRs and JRs. Practice scores of interns were also significantly low, compared to the JRs. However, most of the residents and interns (85%) were aware of the pre-transfusion testing. Conclusion: Therefore, the mandatory incorporation of the transfusion medicine subject in the undergraduate curriculum can help the young budding doctors to better implement the patient blood management.

Hepatitis aguda de origen desconocido. Una serie de casos probables atendidos en un hospital pediátrico de referencia en Panamá

Introducción: Durante el año 2022 se objetivó un aumento de casos de hepatitis de origen desconocido en la población pediátrica. Su etiología a día de hoy todavía no ha sido esclarecida. Este estudio tiene como objetivo presentar la clínica y los resultados de los análisis de laboratorio de los pacientes con hepatitis atendidos en el Hospital del Niño Dr. José Renán Esquivel durante el año 2022.   Material y métodos: Estudio descriptivo de 10 pacientes pediátricos con criterios de hepatitis aguda de origen desconocido atendidos en nuestro centro durante el año 2022. Se ha llevado a cabo un análisis de las principales variables clínicas, analíticas, demográficas, vacunales y serológicas.   Resultados:  Se encontraron 10 pacientes, con una media de edad de 2,8 años. La clínica predominante ha sido la de ictericia, fiebre y clínica gastrointestinal. Analíticamente se ha detectado un aumento de los niveles de transaminasas así como de bilirrubina. Tan sólo un paciente contaba con historia de vacunación para el SARS-CoV-2. El principal agente etiológico identificado ha sido el adenovirus, encontrándose en el 40% de los casos.   Conclusiones: Los pediatras deben tener en cuenta el diagnóstico de hepatitis aguda de origen desconocido en pacientes con clínica de ictericia y fiebre, pudiendo asociar vómitos, diarrea, hepatomegalia, dolor abdominal y coluria, entre otros. La elevación de transaminasas (>500 U/L de AST o ALT) y bilirrubina debe aumentar el índice de sospecha. A pesar de que el principal agente etiológico parece guardar relación con el adenovirus, son necesarios más estudios para confirmar dicha hipótesis. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Introduction: During the year 2022 an increase in cases of hepatitis of unknown origin was observed in the pediatric population. Its etiology has not yet been clarified. This study aims to present the clinical and laboratory results of patients with hepatitis treated at the Hospital del Niño Dr. José Renán Esquivel during the year 2022.   Material and methods: Descriptive study of 10 pediatric patients with criteria of acute hepatitis of unknown origin seen in our center during the year 2022. An analysis of the main clinical, analytical, demographic, vaccination and serological variables was carried out.   Results: The final sample consisted of 10 patients, with a mean age of 2.8 years. The predominant clinical manifestations were jaundice, fever and gastrointestinal symptoms. Laboratory tests showed increased levels of transaminases and bilirubin. Only one patient had a history of vaccination for SARS-CoV-2. The main etiological agent identified was adenovirus, found in 40% of the patients studied.   Conclusions: Pediatricians should consider the diagnosis of acute hepatitis of unknown origin in patients with jaundice and fever, which may be associated with vomiting, diarrhea, hepatomegaly, abdominal pain and choluria, among others. Elevated transaminases (>500 U/L of AST or ALT) and bilirubin should increase the index of suspicion. Although the main etiological agent to date seems to be related to adenovirus, further studies are needed to confirm this hypothesis. (provided by Infomedic International)

Role of Aluminium in Alzheimer’s disease: Ultrastructural Study in Rat Hippocampus

Background: Exposure to high levels of aluminium (Al) leads to neurotoxicity. Hippocampus is one of the preferred sites of aluminium accumulation. Nevertheless, the role of Al in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) remains controversial and there is little proof directly interlinking Al to AD. Aims: The present study was undertaken to find out the occurrence of AD pathogenesis in Hippocampus under moderate aluminium exposure in rats. Materials and Methods: Adult rats were divided into control (C) and aluminium treated (E) groups having eight animal each. The rats in group E were exposed to aluminium 4.2 mg/kg body weight for three months with due approval from Institute Animal Ethics Committee. The hippocampus was processed for histopathological and electron microscopy observation. Results: Moderate Al intake produces significant reduction in the count of Pyramidal cells in hippocampus identified by shrunken cells as well as pyknosis in cell bodies. The differences between the cell numbers in all groups were found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05). Cornu Ammonis (CA) exhibited significantly reduced nissl bodies with a marked reduction in neuronal cell loss. Neurofibrillary tangle and plaques were not seen in the given dose of Al exposure. Electron microscopy from experimental group showed that the majority of neurons were disintegrating, the nuclear membrane has ruptured, and nucleoli appeared significantly distorted. The chromatin condensed and the mitochondria had disintegrated. Many vacuoles and lipofuscin sediment in cytoplasm, as compared to the control group noted. Conclusion: Present data demonstrated that moderate chronic aluminium exposure 4.2mg/kg body weight induced neurodegeneration in hippocampus but not significant for Alzheimer’s disease pathogenesis.

Virological and cytological changes in tears and conjunctiva of patients with COVID-19

Purpose: To analyze the presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS?CoV?2) in tears/conjunctival epithelium and assess the cytomorphological changes in the conjunctival epithelium of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID?19) patients. Methods: In this pilot study, patients with moderate to severe COVID?19 were recruited from the COVID ward/intensive care unit of the institute. Tears and conjunctival swabs were collected from COVID?19 patients and sent to the virology laboratory for reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT?PCR) testing. Conjunctival swabs were used to prepare smears, which underwent cytological evaluation and immunocytochemistry for SARS?CoV?2 nucleocapsid protein. Results: Forty?two patients were included. The mean age of participants was 48.61 (range: 5–75) years. Seven (16.6%) patients tested positive for SARS?CoV?2 ribonucleic acid in tears samples, four (9.5%) of which were positive on conjunctival swab by RT?PCR in the first test. Cytomorphological changes were observed significantly more in smears from patients with positive RT?PCR on tear samples, including bi?/multi?nucleation (p = 0.01), chromatin clearing (p = 0.02), and intra?nuclear inclusions (p < 0.001). One case (3.2%) showed immunopositivity for SARS?CoV?2; this patient had severe disease and the lowest Ct values for tear and conjunctival samples among all positive cases. Conclusion: Conjunctival smears from patients with COVID?19 revealed cytomorphological alterations, even in the absence of clinically significant ocular infection. However, viral proteins were demonstrated within epithelial cells only rarely, suggesting that although the conjunctival epithelium may serve as a portal for entry, viral replication is possibly rare or short?lived.

Smartphone addiction and its impact on quality of sleep and academic performance among nursing students. institutional based cross-sectional study in Western Rajasthan (India) / Adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes y su impacto en la calidad del sueño y el rendimiento académico entre los estudiantes de enfermería. estudio transversal de base institucional en el oeste de Rajastán (India) / Dependência de smartphones e seu impacto na qualidade do sono e desempenho acadêmico entre estudantes de enfermagem. Estudo transversal de base institucional no oeste do Rajastão (Índia)

Objective.To explore the smartphone addiction and its impact on quality of sleep and academic performance among the nursing students. Methods. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among the nursing students (n=160) in tertiary care teaching hospital in western Rajasthan (India) by using standardized Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Version (SAS-SV), the quality of sleep was assessed by standardized Pittsburg's Sleep Quality Index scale (PSQI) and academic performance was assessed by self ­made Academic Performance Scale. Results.In this study 38.1 % students were having moderate smartphone addiction. The smartphone addiction is directly associated with hours daily spend on smartphone (p<0.001), time check smartphone after wake up in the morning (p<0.001), and frequency of smartphone pickups in a day (p=0.003) of students. The quality of sleep is inversely associated with duration of smartphone use (p=0.004), hours daily spend on smartphone (p=0.002), time check smartphone after wake up in morning (p=0.010), of students The academic performance is significantly associated with hours daily spend on smartphone (p=0.003), time check smartphone after wake up in morning (p=0.001), and frequency of smartphone pickups in a day (p=0.015) of students. Conclusion. A high proportion of nursing students have moderate smartphone addiction. This addiction was associated with an increased risk of poor sleep quality and poor academic performance. Educational activities on the healthy use of smartphones are needed in the studied group.

Objetivo. Explorar la adicción a los teléfonos inteligentes y su impacto en la calidad del sueño y el rendimiento académico entre los estudiantes de enfermería. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio descriptivo transversal entre los estudiantes de enfermería (n=160) en el hospital universitario de atención terciaria en el oeste de Rajastán (India). Se empleó la escala estandarizada Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Version (SAS-SV), la calidad del sueño se evaluó mediante el Pittsburg's Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) y el rendimiento académico se evaluó mediante la Escala de Rendimiento Académico de elaboración propia.Resultados. En este estudio, el 38.1% de los estudiantes presentaban adicción moderada a los teléfonos inteligentes. Esta adicción se asoció con las horas diarias dedicadas a los teléfonos inteligentes (p<0.001), el tiempo de revisión de los teléfonos después de despertarse por la mañana (p<0.001), y la frecuencia de uso durante el día (p=0.003). La calidad del sueño se asoció inversamente con los años de uso del teléfono inteligente (p=0.004), las horas diarias de uso (p=0.002) y el tiempo de revisión del teléfono después de despertarse por la mañana (p=0.01). El rendimiento académico también se asoció en forma inversa con las horas diarias de uso del teléfono (p=0.003), el tiempo de revisión del teléfono después de despertarse por la mañana (p=0.001), y la frecuencia de uso del teléfono en un día (p=0.015). Conclusión. Una alta proporción de estudiantes de enfermería tienen adicción moderada a los teléfonos inteligentes. Esta adicción se asoció a un mayor riesgo de mala calidad del sueño y de bajo rendimiento académico. Es necesario llevar a cabo actividades educativas sobre el uso saludable de los teléfonos inteligentes en el grupo estudiado.

Objetivo. Explorar o vício em smartphones e seu impacto na qualidade do sono e no desempenho acadêmico entre estudantes de enfermagem. Métodos. Um estudo transversal descritivo foi realizado entre estudantes de enfermagem (n = 160) em um hospital universitário terciário no Oeste Rajasthan (Índia). Foi utilizada a escala padronizada de dependência de smartphones, Scale Short Version (SAS-SV), a qualidade do sono foi avaliada usando o Pittsburg's Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) e desempenho acadêmico foi avaliado por meio da Escala de Desempenho Acadêmico de nossa própria elaboração. Resultados. Neste estudo, 38.1% dos alunos apresentaram dependência moderada de smartphones. Esse vício foi associado a horas diárias gastas em smartphones (p<0.001), tempo verificando telefones após acordar pela manhã (p<0.001) e frequência de uso durante o dia (p=0.003). A qualidade do sono foi inversamente associada à duração do uso do smartphone (p=0.004), horas diárias de uso (p=0.002) e tempo gasto checando o telefone após acordar pela manhã (p=0.01). O desempenho acadêmico também foi inversamente associado com horas diárias de uso do telefone (p=0.003), tempo gasto verificando o telefone após acordar pela manhã (p=0.001) e frequência de uso do telefone num dia (p=0.015). Conclusão.Uma alta proporção de estudantes de enfermagem tem um vício moderado em smartphones. Esse vício foi associado a um risco aumentado de má qualidade do sono e baixo desempenho acadêmico. É necessária a realização de atividades educativas sobre o uso saudável de smartphones no grupo estudado.

TO DETERMINE EFFECTIVENESS OF SURGICAL RELEASE IN MANAGEMENT OF DE QUERVAIN'S TENOSYNOVITIS

Introduction: De Quervain tenosynovitis is first described by Fritz de Quervain, in 1895. It involves tendon entrapment of the first dorsal compartment of the wrist and thickening of the tendon sheaths of first dorsal compartment the abductor pollicis longus and extensor pollicis brevis, where the tendons pass through the fibro-osseous tunnel located along the radial styloid at the distal wrist. Pain is exacerbated by thumb movement and radial or ulnar deviation of the wrist. The prevalence of de Quervain tenosynovitis is about 0.5% in men and 1.3% in women with peak prevalence in their fourth and fifth decades of life respectively. The present Materials and Methods: study was a prospective study. This Study was conducted from December 2021 to December 2022 at Department of Rampurhat Government Medical College and Hospital, West Bengal, India. In the total of 20 patients Result: were included, out of which 16 patients are female and 4 patients are male. Surgical release has excellent outcome; splinti Conclusion: ng and local steroid injection can be an alternative treatment option for DQ disease especially in patients with low grade disease.

Clinical Profile and Outcome of Snake Bite Patients from Tertiary Healthcare Center: In Sub-Himalayan Region: A Medical College-based Study

Objective: Snake bite is an emergency in tropical and subtropical countries. It is a neglected disease and is most commonly seen in rural setups, where people are ignorant about the venomous snake bites. It results in increased mortality and morbidity because precious time is wasted, either in consulting traditional healers or waiting for the development of signs and symptoms of envenomation. Then only the patient is shifted to a health center. Here we studied the clinical profile, management, and outcome of snake bite patients. Materials and methods: This study was done by retrieving the records of patients with snake bites admitted to the Department of Medicine, Indira Gandhi Medical College & Hospital, Shimla, from 1st January 2017 through December 2019. The recorded data was entered in a precoded performa, and analysis was done with respect to various variables. Result: We evaluated the records of 190 patients. The incidence of the bite was higher among females, 62.1% (n = 118). The commonest age group involved was 21–50 years, 70.1% (n = 34). In 55.8% (n = 106), the site of the bite was the upper limb. The daytime bite was present in 54.7% (n = 106). The maximum incidence of snake bites was found during the rainy season, 81.5% (n = 155). 28.4% (n = 54) of patients presented within 6 hours of the bite. Coagulopathy [whole blood clotting test (WBCT) of >20 minutes] and neurotoxicity were seen in 77.9 and 7.9% of patients, respectively. Anti-snake venom (ASV) was given to 87.8% (n = 167) of patients. In 80% (n = 152) of the cases, hospital stay was up to 3 days. Mortality was seen in only two (1.05%) cases. Conclusion: There is a need to create awareness among the community, particularly in rural areas, about snake bite envenomation and early transportation of victims to the nearest health center. Training of health professionals is also needed to manage cases of snake bites efficiently and judiciously, thereby reducing morbidity and morbidity.

Psychodermatology – a case for sensitization of pharmacists in Mumbai, India

Background: Though studies have looked at the attitudes of dermatologists towards psychodermatology, few have highlighted the attitudes of pharmacists towards these conditions. Objectives: To study the knowledge, attitudes and practices of pharmacists towards the prescription of psychotropic medications to dermatology patients. Methods: This cross-sectional analysis included 80 pharmacists from Mumbai, India. We used an interviewer-administered questionnaire to collect information from pharmacists on their demographics, psychotropic medications in dermatological patients, knowledge about psychocutaneous conditions and comfort about dispensing these medications. Results: In our study, 37 (46%) of pharmacists received prescriptions of psychotropic drugs from dermatologists; however, 24 (30%) were not comfortable dispensing them. Sixty (75%) pharmacists felt that only psychiatrists should prescribe psychotropic drugs and 37 (46%) felt that they had a right to refuse to dispense prescribed medication; of these, 15 (19%) had actually refused to give medications to patients. Pharmacists who disagreed with the statement that 'the state of mind is associated with medical conditions', were more likely to discourage psychotropic prescription from dermatologists (29% vs 11%, P = 0.04). Pharmacists with experience of more than five years were significantly more likely to refuse to dispense medications (odds ratio: 5.14, 95% confidence interval: 1.02, 25.83; P = 0.047). Limitations: We did not have a list of all pharmacists in Mumbai; thus, no sampling frame could be applied. Conclusion: Pharmacists do comment on doctors’ prescriptions, discourage certain medications and even refuse to dispense them based on their personal opinions. Since they are the last stop for patients between the doctor and the medication, their inclusion (in addition to dermatologists, psychiatrists and psychologists) in integrated awareness, training and care programs would improve the quality of care of patients with psychocutaneous disorders

CYTOTOXICITY TESTING OF A NOVEL CROSSLINKED PRF (C-PRF) DEVELOPED FOR DENTAL PULP TISSUE ENGINEERING PURPOSE

Background- Whole pulp amputation followed by pulp space disinfection and ?lling with an arti?cial material causes loss of signi?cant amount of dentin leaving a non-vital and weakened tooth. Regenerative endodontics with its emerging ?eld of modern tissue engineering has demonstrated promising results using stem cells associated with scaffolds and responsive molecules. [1] Introduction- PRF was recognized as the “second generation” of this family of biomaterials. [6] PRF being tested in pulp tissue engineering by different research groups showed mixed results. (7,8) Research studies have shown that the interactions between the cells and their niche are closely related to physicochemical properties of the scaffolding materials [9, 10]. As PRF is a fragile gel its physical character needs to be improved by cross linking and thereby more longer period of liberation of its growth factors and delayed disintegration in physiological system. Aims and Objectives- Aim of our study was to prepare a very economical and autologous biomaterial for pulp tissue engineering by crosslinking of PRF with tannic acid. Our objective was to detect cytotoxic effect of tannic acid in PRF. Methods and Materials- We followed Choukroun et al. protocol to prepare PRF samples from whole venous blood collected from donors. PRF samples were then cross-linked in freshly prepared TA solution in dapendish for 10 minutes at room temperature. Concentrations of TA 1 wt% was used for preparing samples. After crosslinking, the gels were washed with normal saline for 5 min. to ensure that all excess TA was removed. The viability of cells cultured on the scaffolds was assessed through MTT assay (EZcountTM MTT cell Assay Kit, HiMedia, Mumbai, India). Observations- Both MTT Assay and Phalloidine staining showed favourable results of no clear cytotoxic effects of C-PRF. Conclusion- Based on the results of the cell viability analysis it can be concluded that none of the tannic acid crosslinked PRF created any clear cytotoxicity in the MC3T3 cells. So, C-PRF can safely be used as scaffold for dental pulp or similar tissue engineering purposes

Antimicrobial Utilization Study in a Neurology Setting

Background : Measuring antimicrobial consumption is necessary to understand the volume and patterns of use, to design appropriate interventions to reduce and rationalize its use. Materials and Methods : The antimicrobial consumption in Neurology ICU and IPD were measured over a 5-year period using WHO Defined Daily Dose (DDD) methodology. Results : There was an increasing trend in Antimicrobial Consumption (AMC) from 125.7 to 155.5 DDDs/100 days over 5 years with highest consumption in 2017-2018 (190.7 DDDs). The consumption of Watch group of antibiotics was higher than access group antibiotics both in ICU and IPD and constituted more than 75% of total antibiotic consumption. Conclusions : The initiation of empiric therapy though may be necessary depending on the patients condition, however, duration of antibiotic therapy and reducing usage of prophylactic antibiotics for aspiration pneumonia and reducing consumption of Watch group of antibiotics were identified as stewardship opportunities. Feedback on AMC data and persuasive educational interventions to rationalize and reduce antimicrobial use are required.

Intra-natal Care Practices in Rural Areas of Gaya District, Bihar

Context: Antenatal care (ANC) effectively reduces infant and maternal mortality rates mainly by promoting institutional deliveries. In view of this, the Government of India introduced Janani Suraksha Yojna (JSY) in 2005 and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) in 2011. Aims: To estimate the proportion of home and institutional deliveries in the district, assess the impact of JSK and JSSY on institutional deliveries, and identify the different intranatal care providers. Settings and Design: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Gaya district, Bihar. A total of 657 females of the reproductive age group (15-49 years) were included in the study. Methods and Material: Predesigned, pre-tested & semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect information on place of delivery, type of delivery, knowledge regarding JSY and JSSK schemes and source of information Statistical analysis used: Data was entered into excel sheets and analyzed using SPSS version 23 utilizing appropriate statistical methods. Results: Out of 519 deliveries, 63% were institutional and 37% were home deliveries. About 91 and 11.4% of respondents were aware of JSY and JSSK schemes. There was a significant association between those who opted for institutional delivery and awareness regarding JSY and JSSK services. Conclusion: Despite awareness and running of various government programs, the percentage of institutional deliveries is still less. An increase in institutional deliveries at primary care level through JSY and JSSK will not only decrease the Out of Pocket expenditure of the population but also help build faith in the government health facilities. Most read articles by the same author(s) Mahendra Singh, Surekha Kishore , Bhavan Jain, Sanjeev Kishore, Pradeep Aggarwal, Shikhar K Verma , Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus and its associated risk factors , Indian Journal of Community Health: Vol. 32 No. 1 (2020) Chandramani Singh, Bijit Biswas, Naveen KG, Haripriya Hari, Sanjay Pandey, Bijaya Nanda Naik, Epidemiological investigation of a food poisoning outbreak: a study among hostel dwelling students and resident doctors of a tertiary healthcare facility of India , Indian Journal of Community Health: Vol. 33 No. 3 (2021) Bhavan Jain, Seema Jain, Harivansh Chopra, Sunil Kumar Garg, Ganesh Singh, Chhaya Mittal, Impact of Sociodemographic factors on prevalence of overweight and obesity among adolescents of urban Meerut , Indian Journal of Community Health: Vol. 30 No. 1 (2018) Raj Shekhar, Ditipriya Bhar, Chandramani Singh, Awareness, Knowledge and Practices of Contraceptive Methods among Married Males of Slums of Phulwarisharif block of Patna District, Bihar , Indian Journal of Community Health: Vol. 31 No. 2 (2019)

Patient’s adherence to antihypertensive drugs in a tertiary care hospital: A cross-sectional study

Background: Hypertension (HTN) is a serious public health problem. Good control of the disease has always been considered to be essential for reducing its morbidity and mortality. Poor adherence to treatment is the single most important reason for uncontrolled blood pressure, serious complications, and wastage of health-care resources. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to assess the antihypertensive medication adherence level among hypertensive study participants, and identify and evaluate the barriers to antihypertensive medication adherence. Materials and Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in tertiary care medical college hospital in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, involving 332 patients and the collected data were presented as means (standard deviations) and percentages. Comparison of data was performed using Pearson’s Chi-square test. For all statistical analyses, commercially available computer program was used. Results: Among 332 study participants having age range of 31–78 years with a mean age of 57.49 ± 9.20 years, female (approx. 60%) were more than male (40%) participants. About 96.7% of respondents were aware that HTN could cause severe consequences with regard to their health and daily activity but more than half were taking medium salt (56.0%) and more than one-third (32.8%) were taking fatty rich diet. Only one-fourth (25.6%) had good medication adherence. Male participants (34.8%) were more adherent to medication than female (20.2%) and this was statistically significant with P = 0.003. Conclusion: Around 3/4th of study participants (72.9%) were poorly adherent to antihypertensive medication. Hence, there should be improvement in awareness for both the patients and the care providers.

A Study on Sexually Transmitted Infections Using Syndromic Approach among Patients Attending Suraksha Clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital of West Bengal

Introduction : A proper understanding of different aspects of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) in different regions of a country like India is very essential for STI control. Objectives : To assess pattern of STIs using Syndromic approach among patients attending at Suraksha Clinic and to find out treatment seeking behaviour among them. Material and Method : A cross-sectional study was conducted at a Tertiary Care Hospital of West Bengal. This retrospective study was done selecting all patients who attended the Clinic for first time from 1st May, 2020 to 30th April, 2021. Relevant records were reviewed. Descriptive statistics and chi-square test were used. Observations : In present study Suraksha Clinic attendees were mainly comprised of female (95.8%); while 65.8% and 64.2% of patients were suffering from Lower abdominal pain and Cervicovaginal discharge respectively. Nearly one-third of them (37.9%) were suffering from more than one disease. About one-fourth of patients (28.2%) accessed the STI/RTI/Suraksha Clinic directly. The treatment seeking behaviour was significantly associated with gender and education of patients. Conclusions : This Tertiary Care Hospital based study highlighted higher prevalence of certain STIs among attendees to Suraksha Clinic as well as lower proportion of male and directly walk-in patient

Modified FOLFIRINOX compared to Gemcitabine & nab-Paclitaxel in advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma - results of a match-pair analysis

Background & objectives: FOLFIRINOX and gemcitabine plus nab-paclitaxel (GN) are the most commonly used regimens in advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas (PDACs). As there is limited data on comparison of these two regimens, the present study was aimed to compare survivals and tolerance for both regimens through a match-pair analysis. Methods: The data of 350 patients with metastatic and locally advanced PDAC, treated between January 2013 and December 2019, were retrieved. A 1:1 matching, using age and performance status, without replacement was performed by using nearest neighbour matching method. Results: A total of 260 patients (130 modified FOLFIRINOX and 130 GN) were matched. The median overall survival (OS) was 12.98 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 7.257-8.776 months] in modifications of FOLFIRINOX (mFOLFIRINOX) cohort and 12.06 months (95% CI 6.690-8.88 months) in GN group (P=0.080). The incidence of grade 3 and 4 infections, diarrhoea, oral mucositis, and fatigue was higher with mFOLFIRINOX. Patients who received second line therapy had improved OS as compared to those who did not (14.06 vs. 9.07 months, P<0.001). Interpretation & conclusions: GN and mFOLFIRINOX appear to have similar survival outcomes in an unselected match paired patient population with advanced PDAC. A markedly increased incidence of non-myelosuppressive grade 3 and grade 4 side-effects and lack of survival improvements suggest a need for nuanced use of the mFOLFIRINOX regimen. Administration of second-line chemotherapy improves OS in patients with advanced PDAC.

MS-5, a Naphthalene Derivative, Induces Apoptosis in Human Pancreatic Cancer BxPC-3 Cells by Modulating Reactive Oxygen Species

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most fatal cancers with a poor prognosis. Standard chemotherapies have proven largely ineffective because of their toxicity and the development of resistance. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop novel therapies. In this study, we investigated the antitumor activity of MS-5, a naphthalene derivative, on BxPC-3, a human pancreatic cancer cell line. We observed that MS-5 was cytotoxic to BxPC-3 cells, as well as inhibited the growth of cells in a concentration- and time- dependent manner. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the percentage of annexin V-positive cells increased after MS-5 treatment. We also observed cleavage of caspases and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase, and downregulation of Bcl-xL protein. Flow cytometry analysis of intracellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial superoxide suggested that MS-5 induced the generation of mitochondrial superoxide while lowering the overall intracellular ROS levels. Thus, MS-5 may be potential candidate for pancreatic cancer treatment.

Effect of Wumeisan on Gut Lactase Activity and Microflora Diversity of Mice with Dysbacteriosis Diarrhea / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo explore the effects of Wumeisan on gut lactase activity and microflora diversity of mice with dysbacteriosis diarrhea. MethodThe mice were randomly divided into 4 groups， namely， the normal group， the model group， and the low-dose and high-dose Wumeisan groups， with 8 mice in each group. The mouse model was made by gavage of mixed antibiotics for 7 d， and the low-dose and high-dose Wumeisan groups （5.98， 11.96 g·kg-1） were given gavage for 7 d continuously. The normal group and the model group were given the same volume of sterile water. The changes in the body weight， food intake， and diarrhea of mice were recorded. Feces were collected after the last administration， and the lactase activity was detected by the colorimetric method. The gut microbiota changes were detected by the 16S rRNA high-throughput sequencing technology. ResultCompared with those in the normal group， the mice in the model group had dilute and soft stools， reduced body mass， reduced food intake， reduced lactase activity， significantly reduced intestinal flora diversity， and significant changes in the relative abundance phylum and genus levels of flora. Compared with the model group， Wumeisan reduced the diarrhea rate of mice， promoted the rapid recovery of body weight and food intake， increased the lactase activity decreased by antibiotic， improved the community abundance and diversity of mice with dysbacteriosis， and made the species composition closer to that in the normal group. The abundance of three phyla （Bacteroidota， Proteobacteria， Verrucomicrobiota） and nine genera （Odoribacter， Enterococcus， Clostridium innocuum group， etc.） of mice with diarrhea were regulated by Wumeisan. Among them， norank f Muribaculaceae， norank f norank o Clostridia UCG-014， Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group， and Odoribacter showed significant positive correlation with the body weight and lactase activity， and Escherichia-Shigella， Enterobacter， Enterococcus， and Clostridium innocuum group showed significant positive correlation with the diarrhea rate. Function prediction showed that the high-dose Wumeisan significantly reseted 6 functional levels of metabolism， genetic information processing， and human diseases， and had positive effects on endocrine and metabolic diseases， immune diseases， infectious disease， and parasitic infectious diseases. ConclusionWumeisan can relieve the symptoms of dysbacteriological diarrhea by increasing the lactase activity and regulating the gut microbiota composition.

Morphology of middle cerebral artery using computed tomography angiographic study in a tertiary care hospital / 대한해부학회지

Increased tortuosity of vessel is associated with high incidence of plaque formation leading to atherosclerosis.Surgical procedures are done after analyzing morphology of middle cerebral artery (MCA). However, literature describing MCA morphology using computed tomography angiography (CTA) is limited, so this study was planned to determine its incidence in Indian population. Datasets of CTA from 289 patients (180 males and 109 females), average age: 49.29±16.16 years (range: 11 to 85 years), from a tertiary care hospital were systematically reviewed for morphology of MCA. Cases involving aneurysms and infarcts were excluded. Four shapes of MCA were recognized: straight, U, inverted U, and S-shaped. MCA was straight in 44% (254/578), U-shaped in 37% (215/578), S shaped in 15% (89/578) and inverted U-shaped in 3% (20/578) cases. In males, MCA was straight in 46% (166/360), U-shaped in 37% (134/360), S-shaped in 16% (58/360) and inverted U-shaped in 4% (14/360) cases. In females, MCA was straight in 42% cases (92/218), U-shaped in 37% (81/218), S-shaped in 17% (36/218) and inverted U-shaped in 4% (9/218). On comparing shape with various age groups using chi square test, U shaped (P≤0.001) and S-shaped (P=0.003) MCA were found to be statistically significant. The incidence of straight shape was higher in advanced age group (>60 years). Knowledge of MCA shape will be useful for clinicians and surgeons in successful endovascular recanalization. Also, this data would help surgeons during neurointerventional procedures.

A prospective study on use of Ilizarov external fixator for open fractures of Tibia

Introduction: Open fractures are more commonly seen in tibia as compared to other bones because of subcutaneous location and the tenuous soft tissue cover. There has been rise in open tibia fractures with increased road traffic accidents. Management of open tibial fracture remains controversial. Ilizarov external fixator is a better option for the treatment of these fractures. This study was conducted to evaluate the clinical outcome of open tibial fractures managed with an Ilizarov external fixator. Material & Methods: Twelve patients among those who presented to the emergency department with Type II, Type IIIA and Type IIIB Gustilo-Anderson type open tibial fracture were enrolled. All these cases were treated by Ilizarov external fixator and appropriate wound management. Active movements were started at the earliest after the surgery. Partial weight bearing with support was started from the second day after the surgery. Results: Mean age of the study subjects was 37.66 ± 8.77 years. Half of the patients had Type IIIB GustiloAnderson type fractures. The mean duration of fracture union was 7.1 months. Pin tract infection of the wires was the more common among complications. Excellent to good outcome was seen in 90% of study subjects. Conclusion: Ilizarov external fixator gives stable fixation of the open tibial fractures and allows better wound care. It also helps in early ambulation and rehabilitation of these patients.

Comparative study of the accuracy of Platelet count/ spleen diameter ratio with other non-invasive parameters in predicting large esophageal varices in patients with chronic liver disease

Introduction: Bleeding from esophageal varices causes significant mortality and morbidity in patients with chronic liver disease. With upper GI endoscopy not available in many centers and in rural India, certain noninvasive methods can help to aid in the prediction of the presence of large esophageal varices. Early identification of large varices helps in prophylaxis to prevent bleeding until definitive management is done. Here in this study, we are using platelet count/spleen diameter ratio in predicting the large esophageal varices and comparing its sensitivity and specificity with non-invasive parameters. Study: This is a cross-sectional study (Prospective study) in a tertiary hospital. Methods: Patients admitted to SSIMS & RC, DAVANAGERE between January 2021 and June 2021 with a diagnosis of chronic liver disease were included in the study. Patients were assessed for ascites, splenomegaly, ultrasonographic measurements like splenic size and portal vein diameter, and laboratory parameters like hemoglobin, platelet count, total bilirubin, prothrombin time and serum albumin. The ratio of platelet count with spleen diameter was calculated. Univariate and multivariate analyses were done. Results: Incidence of large varices were seen in 44%. By ultrasonography, 22 were found to have splenomegaly while 28 were found to have normal spleen dimensions. Patients with large esophageal varices had significantly lower platelet counts as compared to those without. Spleen diameter was greater while platelet count/spleen diameter ratio was lower in patients with large esophageal varices. On multivariate analysis, independent predictors for the presence of large varices were palpable spleen, low platelet count, spleen size >13.8 mm, portal vein >13 mm and splenic vein >11.5 mm. The platelet count/ spleen diameter ratio had a sensitivity and specificity of 87 % and 85% respectively which was more than other parameters. Hence platelet count/ spleen diameter ratio can be a reliable indicator for predicting the presence of large esophageal varices than other non-invasive parameters. Conclusion: Platelet count/ spleen diameter ratio is more accurate and a strong predictor of large esophageal varices than any other non-invasive parameters in patients with chronic liver disease which warrant the need for prophylaxis and early intervention to prevent life-threatening hemorrhage.

Síndrome de Loeffler, ¿más frecuente de lo que pensamos?: un caso asociado a Ascaris lumbricoides y Strongyloides stercolaris

El síndrome de Loeffler consiste en una neumonía eosinofílica aguda consecuencia de una reacción inmunológica de tipo alérgico, principalmente secundario a la fase pulmonar de los ciclos de algunos parásitos. Los parásitos más frecuentemente asociados son los nemátodos, y, entre ellos, Ascaris lumbricoides que es el principal causante de Síndrome de Loeffler. Clínicamente puede cursar con tos, dificultad respiratoria de distinto grado, sibilancias y subcrepitantes en la auscultación y fiebre. Como hallazgos radiológicos suelen apreciarse infiltrados intersticiales y en los exámenes de laboratorio destaca la presencia de eosinofilia en el hemograma. Se trata de un síndrome con muy baja incidencia a nivel global, probablemente debido a su infradiagnóstico, por lo que presentamos el caso de un paciente de 14 años con diagnóstico de Síndrome de Loeffler asociado a Ascaris lumbricoides y a Strongyloides stercolaris. (provisto por Infomedic International)

Loeffler's syndrome consist of an acute eosinophilic pneumonia due to an immunnologic reaction, mainly owing to the pulmonary phase of the life's cycles of some parasites. Nematodes are the most common parasites related to the syndrome, and between them, Ascaris lumbricoides is the one that causes most of the Loeffler's Syndrome. Symptoms that can be caused by the syndrome are cough, breath difficulties of different grades, fever and wheezing and crackling on auscultation. Radiological findings are bilateral interstitial infiltrates and in laboratory test eosinophilia stands out in blood count. The global incidence of the syndrome is very low, maybe due to an underdiagnosis, so we present the case of a 14-year-old male child with Loeffler´s Syndrome caused by Ascaris lumbricoides and Strongyloides stercolaris. (provided by Infomedic International)