National Journal of Physiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology

Permanent URI for this collection

https://imsear.searo.who.int/handle/123456789/149612

Editor: Dr. Jay Charan

ISSN: 2320–4672 (Print)

Frequency: 2 issues a year

Language: English

Open Access Peer-reviewed journal

Web site: https://www.njppp.com/

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 1174

Vasorelaxant effects of hydro-ethanol leaves extract of Adansonia digitata on different models of conductance and resistance vessels in rat
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-11) Sene, M; Diouf, I; Ba, A; Ndiaye, M; Ba, F; Toure, M; Diaw, NA; Kane, MO; Sarr, M; Schini-kerth, VB.
Introduction: Adansonia digitata leaves are used in traditional medicine to treat high blood pressure in Senegal. The objective of this study was to evaluate the vasorelaxant effects of the hydroethanolic leaf extract of Adansonia digitata ADF (hydroethanolic leaf extract of Adansonia digitata) on rat mesenteric, carotid, femoral arteries, and thoracic aorta. Material and methods: Rat mesenteric, carotid, femoral arteries, and thoracic aorta rings were suspended in organ chambers for recording changes in isometric forces. They were then balanced for 45 minutes to a basal tension of 1 g and contracted with a KCl solution (80 mM) to verify the integrity of the arteries. After washing with Krebs solution and returning to a basal tension of 1 g, the rings were contracted again with phenylephrine (1 ?M) until the concentra- tion plateau was reached, then released by adding acetylcholine (ACh, 1 ?M). Vessels were considered to have func- tional endothelium when acetylcholine induced a relaxation greater than 90%. In some experiments, the endothelium was removed before contraction with phenylephrine and concentration-relaxation responses to ADF were measured. Results: ADF produced 91.43, 72.08, 68.89, and 71.32% relaxation, respectively, in superior mesenteric, carotid, femoral arteries, and thoracic aorta at 10 ?g/ml in endothelium-intact arteries pre-contracted with phenylephrine. Conclusion: Adansonia digitata induces vasodilation, which may explain its antihypertensive effect and its use in traditional African medicine.
Leena Biswas, Ananya Mandal, Suman Chattopadhyay, Arijit Ghosh, Supreeti Biswas, Subhradipta Bhattacharyya
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Biswas, L; Mandal, A; Chattopadhyay, S; Ghosh, A; Biswas, S; Bhattacharyya, S.
Background: Metered dose inhalers (MDI) remain the mainstay of drug delivery in patients with bronchial asthma and other respiratory diseases for the last few decades. India has an estimated 15–20 million asthmatics; rough estimates indicate a prevalence of between 10% and 15% in 5–11 years old children. Its advantages include better adherence and safety profile with improved efficacy. However, imperfect inhaler use technique worsens health outcomes with poor disease control. Communication and demonstration skills of health care professionals are thus vital parts of asthma therapy while educating patients regarding MDI use. The use of different devices has been included in Phase II of CBME Curriculum. Hence, communication and demonstration skills need to be learnt by all Indian medical graduates. Thus, a study was planned to assess communication and demonstration skills regarding MDI use of phase II MBBS students. Aim: To evaluate and analyze the communication and demonstration skills on the use of MDI among Phase-II MBBS students of a Medical College in Kolkata. Methods: A total of 243 second year MBBS students participated in the study. They were asked to demonstrate the correct technique of use of an MDI along with suitable communication with the interviewer who posed as a patient. The assessment of their demonstration and communication skills was done on the basis of scores obtained on a pre- validated and tested checklist. For the assessment of skills, a single interviewer was appointed to avoid inter-individual bias. Students were categorized according to performance into excellent (>75% scores), good (60%–74%), fair (50%– 59%), and fail (<49%) which was further classified into poor (49%–35%), and very poor (<35%). Results: Average scores obtained by the students were 59.2% ± 28.99% and 91% ± 11.64% in communication and demonstration skills, respectively. Students performed significantly better with demonstration compared to communication skills (p < 0.001; Unpaired t test). During the demonstration, quite a significant number of students missed stating the steps involving deep and steady breathing to the dummy patient. As per the results of communication skills, 32.9%, 13.9%, and 13.9% of students were in excellent, good, and fair categories, respectively. As per results of demonstration skills, 95.47%, 2.8%, and 1.23% of students were in excellent, good, and fair categories, respectively. Only 1 student failed in the demonstration. However, 95 students failed in communication out of which 13.58% and 25.5% scored poor was very poor, respectively. Conclusion: The study concludes that phase II medical students in this college were well versed with the steps and technique of using the MDI as seen from the high scores of demonstration skills. However, they seem to be lacking in adequate communication skills while explaining the technique to a patient. Hence, there is a need for more training regarding communication skills.
Assessment of mind mapping as a tool for retention of learning in microbiology among phase II medical students: A mixed methods study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-11) Kaup, S; Gurumurthy, R; Srinivas, R.
Background: Medical curriculum is vast and retaining information is a challenge. Mind mapping is a tool that can facilitate retention of information by actively involving the learner in the learning process. Aims and Objectives: Current study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of mind mapping as a tool for knowl- edge retention and revision; and to explore the perceptions of students regarding its utility. Materials and Methods: A concurrent mixed-methods study was conducted in the Microbiology department involv- ing 73 phase-II medical students. Students were divided into two groups by stratified random sampling ensuring equal distribution of slow, moderate, and fast learners. Group-A consisting of 36 students was trained on the usage of mind maps. After a didactic lecture, group-A used mind mapping whereas group-B, consisting of 37 students, used conven- tional reading for learning and revision. Mean scores of the two groups in MCQ-based test at 1 week and 1 month was compared and statistical significance assessed using independent-sample t-test. Perception of mind mapping among the students was assessed using a questionnaire and Focus Group Discussions and presented in the form of themes. Results: Our study showed significant difference in MCQ scores at 1 week (p < 0.01) showing that mind mapping is a useful tool for knowledge retention. Most of the students perceived mind mapping as a useful tool and opined that it facilitated knowledge retention, saved time during revision, and improved comprehension. Conclusions: Mind mapping aids in retention of knowledge and can be a useful supplementary tool facilitating the students to effectively assimilate the vast medical curriculum.
Effectiveness of early clinical exposure as a learning tool among 1st and 2nd year MBBS students’ perspective
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Kori, SP; C, N.
Introduction: Early clinical exposure (ECE) is a teaching-learning methodology that fosters the exposure of medical students to patients as early as the first year of medical college. ECE is a form of vertical integration pattern between preclinical subjects and clinical subjects. It is basically “A teaching and learning methodology which fosters exposure of medical students to patients (actual human contact) as early as the first year of medical college, in a social or clinical context that enhances the learning of health, illness or disease, and the role of the health professional.” With this background in the present study, we tried to explore the opinion of 1st and 2nd year students on early clinical exposure. Methods: The study was carried out on a total of 200 students including both 1st and 2nd year MBBS students. They were subjected to a set of internally validated questionnaires. Responses were collected in Likert scale format and tabulated and statistical analysis was done to compare the perspectives of 1st and 2nd year students. Results: The unpaired t-test done on 5-point Likert scale scores for 1st and 2nd year students showed a statistical value of 0.736 with p-value of 0.463 which is statistically not significant. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the significant role of ECE in shaping the learning experience of 1st and 2nd year MBBS students. The data collected from the validated questionnaires reveal that students generally perceive ECE as a valuable component of their medical education that enhances their understanding of health and illness, as well as the role of healthcare professionals.
Effect of alternate nostril breathing (Anuloma – Viloma) on cardiovascular autonomic functions: A prospective study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-11) Nagendrappa, S; Kumaraswamy, SG; Ramalingaiah, VH.
Background: Medical students are experiencing more stress than the general population and much of the research has indicated that various interventions like meditation and mindfulness are of help. It is known that stability of the autonomic system is one of the indicators for stressreduction. Aim: This prospective study was undertaken to know the effectiveness of alternate nostril breathing in bringing about such changes in cardiovascular autonomic functions. Methods: Consenting 60 medical students were recruited and baseline parameters of cardiovascular autonomic func- tions like heart rate, heart rate variability indices, blood pressure, and galvanic skin response were recorded using a computerized 8-channel polygraph. Alternate nostril breathing was practiced by the participants under supervision for a duration of 3 months. At the end of the intervention, the study parameters were reassessed. Inferential statistical analysis was done by performing student’s t test (two-tailed and dependent). Results: The results of this study showed a statistically significant decrease in heart rate (p < 0.001) and diastolic blood pressure (p < 0.005) after the intervention. It was also noted that there was statistically a significant (p < 0.001) increase in cardiovascular autonomic parameters. Conclusion: Regular practice of alternate nostril breathing causes stretch receptors of lung and baroreceptors in aortic and carotid sinuses to synchronise with central autonomic regulatory network involving hypothalamus, prefrontal and limbic cortex. Hence alternate nostril breathing is a simple, practicable, and effective meditation technique which alters cardiovascular autonomic functions towards parasympathetic control thus might reduce the stress and cardio- vascular morbidity among medical students.
The effect of handrail support on treadmill time and prediction of VO2max: A comparison study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Kori, SP; Kutty, K.
Background: Young Indians face a higher risk of myocardial infarction compared to Caucasians of the same age, with a sedentary lifestyle being a key risk factor (16). Regular physical activity can modify this risk, improving aerobic capacity and cardio-respiratory fitness. Oxygen uptake (VO2) estimates from treadmill tests, used for exercise prescriptions, assume no handrail support (HS), yet patients often use them, affecting energy expenditure and estimate accuracy. This study investigates the impact of HS on treadmill time (TT) and VO2 estimates in our population. Methods: The study involved 100 healthy male subjects aged 18–40 years from Sri Devraj Urs Medical College, Kolar. Basal heart rate and blood pressure were recorded, and electrocardiogram (ECG) chest electrodes were connected. Each subject performed two submaximal treadmill tests using the Bruce protocol, one with HS and one without, two weeks apart. Blood pressure was recorded at each stage and during recovery. TT, maximum heart rate, and VO2 max were calculated using the Bruce formula. All pertinent data was meticulously recorded in a Microsoft Excel Sheet and subsequently subjected to analysis through the utilization of SPSS-Software. Results: A significant difference was observed between the two conditions (with and without HS) for TT and VO2max, with a p-value of less than 0.001. Both TT and VO2max exhibited a strong positive correlation, with r values of 0.843 and 0.821, respectively, and a highly significant p-value of less than 0.001. TT predicted VO2max at 71.1% in the HS condition and 67.3% in the no HS condition, indicating an additional 4% effect on VO2max due to HS. Conclusion: Introducing HS significantly increases TT and VO2max. VO2max without HS can be accurately predicted independently of the protocol using a regression formula.
Efficacy and safety of metformin immediate release versus extended release in drug naive patients with type 2 diabetes: A randomized controlled trial
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-11) Farookh, SS; Kamath, L; KR, R.
Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of metformin immediate release (IR) versus metformin extended release (ER) in patients with type 2 Diabetes. Materials and Methods: In this parallel-group, comparative, open-label clinical study, patients (n = 70) were as- signed to two groups: 35 patients were randomized to receive Metformin IR 500 mg tablet orally twice daily and the remaining 35 patients to receive Metformin ER 1000 mg tablet orally once daily for 12 weeks. Fasting plasma glucose (FPG), postprandial plasma glucose (PPG), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) were recorded at the start and end of the study. Results: There was a significant decrease in FPG, PPG, and HbA1c glycemic parameters from baseline to week 12 in both Metformin IR and Metformin ER groups but the difference was not statistically significant between the groups. Incidence of adverse effects was less reported with the extended-release formulation. All patients tolerated both the formulations of metformin with good compliance. Conclusion: In this study, both Metformin IR and ER formulations demonstrated similar efficacy in improving gly- cemic control in drug naïve patients with type 2 diabetes. However, the ER formulation exhibited a superior safety profile, characterized by a reduced incidence of adverse effects, thereby improving drug compliance.
Efficacy and safety analysis of itopride vs bisacodyl in chronic constipation cases at tertiary care hospital in Prakasam district: A prospective, randomized study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Zaheera, MM; Gokul, T; Kambar, C; Choppara, JV.
Introduction: Chronic functional constipation is a functional bowel disorder characterized by difficult, infrequent, and incomplete defecation, affecting 14% of the world population. The quality of life and health care system are impacted and represent a heavy economic burden. Rome IV criteria are used for the diagnosis of constipation. Aim and objectives: To compare the safety and efficacy of itopride vs bisacodyl in chronic constipation, to evaluate improvement in constipation symptoms using the validated PAC-SYM questionnaire, to evaluate treatment satisfac- tion in participants using a 5-point Likert Scale, Bristol Stool Form Score for Stool form assessment. Materials and methods: This prospective, randomized study was conducted in Government Medical College, Ongole, for 13 months, with the study population of 150 patients of both genders and aged >18 years. The data analysis is done using the PAC-SYM Score, 5-point Likert Scale, and Bristol Stool Form Scale (BSFS). Results: Compared to the bisacodyl group, the mean spontaneous complete bowel movements and spontaneous bow- el movements (SBM) were significantly higher in the itopride group (p < 0.05) at the end of the study. The overall satisfaction levels of patients taking itopride and bisacodyl do not significantly differ over time. Both drugs appear to have similar satisfaction profiles from baseline to 12 weeks. The BSFS scores differ significantly between itopride and bisacodyl during different time intervals. The similar satisfaction profiles suggest that both drugs, itopride and bisacodyl can be effectively used to manage constipation, depending on the patient’s specific needs and preferences.
Pharmacoeconomic Evaluation of Antidiabetic Medication in Geriatric Type 2 Diabetes- A Brief Study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Jakhar, A; Hussain, S; Hussain, MS; Saifi, L; Usman, K; Sawlani, KK; Khattri, S.
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a long-term condition that poses an enormous health and economic burden on society. Unfortunately, there is a dearth of such evidence in India. Hence, we sought to estimate the direct cost of antidiabetic medication in the geriatric population. Aim and Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the pharmacoeconomic of antidiabetic medication in geriat- ric type 2 diabetes mellitus patients attending outpatient department in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Materials and Methods: The demographic characteristics, clinical characteristics, and treatment profiles of patients were compiled. All diabetic patients who visited an outpatient department had their prescriptions recorded. A pharma- coeconomic analysis of prescribed anti-diabetic medications was conducted. Results: The study enrolled 600 DM patients, of which 67.83% were males, 32.17 % were females, and the pre- dominant age group was 60–64 years. In 94.54% of patients, the most frequently prescribed antidiabetic drug was metformin 500 mg. In 39.31% of patients, the most frequently prescribed antidiabetic combination was glimepiride 2 mg + metformin 500 mg. Insulin was prescribed in 14.83% of the cases. The percentage cost difference for diabetes medications ranges from 43.010 to 644.444. The monthly cost of monotherapy for most patients with controlled diabe- tes (31.46%) and uncontrolled diabetes (42.12%) was between 500 and 1000 INR. In addition, the cost of combination therapy ranges between INR 118.91 and INR 300.27. Conclusion: The costs associated with diabetes are immense and impose a substantial burden on society. Consequent- ly, policymakers should prioritize preventing the disease and its associated problems.
Determination of Clinical and Radiological severity of COVID- 19 infection among vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients: A retrospective study in a tertiary care hospital
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) T, I; S, M; D, P; Siddeswarswamy; D, L.
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has spurred global efforts for vaccination. Understanding the severity of infection among vaccinated and non-vaccinated individuals can inform clinical practice and public health measures. Objective: To compare the clinical and radiological severity of COVID-19 infections between vaccinated and non-vaccinated patients in a tertiary care hospital setting. Methods: A retrospective review of patient records from January to December 2022 at Sri Siddhartha Medical Col- lege and Research Centre, tertiary care centre. Clinical severity was categorized as mild, moderate, or severe based on WHO guidelines. Radiological severity was evaluated based on standard CT severity scores. Comparisons were made between the two groups, adjusting for confounding variables like age, gender, and comorbidities. Results: In a study of 150 individuals, 100 had received the vaccine while 50 had not. Those who were vaccinated displayed markedly fewer severe clinical symptoms (p < 0.001) and demonstrated decreased CT severity scores (p < 0.005) when compared to the non-vaccinated group. Though age and pre-existing health conditions played a role in the severity of symptoms, the vaccine’s protective benefits were still pronounced after accounting for these factors. Conclusion: Vaccination against COVID-19 significantly reduces the clinical and radiological severity of the disease in patients. This study underscores the importance of widespread vaccination to mitigate the impact of the virus on individual health and hospital resources.
A Population-Based Study of Diabetes Mellitus and Association with Human ABO Blood Groups
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Mahjour, M; Jarahi, L; Doustparast, A; Boskabadi, A; Hadirudi, H; Kaheni, AH.
Background: With the increasing importance of personalized patient management, effective analysis of various pa- tient data can play an important role in identifying people at risk of high-burden diseases like diabetes mellitus (DM). By studying the correlation between DM and blood groups, potential risk factors can be identified, leading to person- alized strategies for screening and prevention. Objectives: This study aims to investigate the association between type 2 DM (T2DM) and different blood groups. Materials and Methods: Data were extracted from a population database of Mashhad Health Care Centers, the sec- ond metropolitan city in Iran. From 169,536 individuals who were referred for DM management, data of 6801 persons were extracted. The control group consisted of non-diabetic individuals, who were matched in terms of sex and age. Demographic variables, medical history, and blood groups were obtained. Results: The mean (SD) age of diabetic individuals was 41.3(8.6) years, 80% being overweight or obese. Among T2DM patients, blood type O was the most common, followed by A, and blood type AB had the lowest prevalence (32.7%, 30.6%, and 9.3%, respectively). Compared to the control group, Blood type O showed a higher prevalence in DM (p value = 0.001). Diabetic persons with blood type O had a higher occurrence of T2DM in their family history (p value = 0.01). Conclusion: In patients with T2DM, the most frequent blood type was O, with A coming in second. It seems that those with O+ blood type are more susceptible to developing T2DM. Additionally, differences and inconsistencies have been noted among various countries, hinting at the possible impact of other factors.
A Comprehensive Guide to Interpreting Quality of Life in Elderly patients with Controlled and Uncontrolled Diabetes
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Hussain, MS; Hussain, S; Jakhar, A; Usman, K; Sawlani, KK; Khattri, S.
Background: Because old adults with type 2 diabetes are associated with an increase in mortality and complications when compared to young diabetics and non-diabetic people of the same age group, the elderly are at a high risk for this condition. Diabetes affected nearly 19 million people in 2010, accounting for 26.9% of all those in this age range. The most important factor in determining a person’s level of health is their quality of life (QOL). Aim and objectives: The aims of this study are to determine the QOL in controlled and uncontrolled geriatric type 2 diabetes mellitus patients receiving antidiabetic drug therapy using the World Health Organization Quality of Life— BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) and Appraisal of Diabetes Scale (ADS) questionnaire. Materials and methods: This prospective, cross-sectional, observational study began following ethical approval. The study covered 182 patients. Categorical data were compared using the chi-square test, whilst normally distributed con- tinuous data were examined using the unpaired t-test. The odd ratios for quality-of-life impairment were determined using univariate binary logistic regression analysis (QOL). Results: Across the groups of people with controlled and uncontrolled diabetes, there were significant differences in family structure and marital status (p<0.05). When compared to the group with controlled diabetes (133.55 ± 49.01 and 6.16 ± 0.33) the FPG and HbA1c were considerably higher in the uncontrolled diabetes group (154.73 ± 55.18 and 7.81 ± 1.11). In the two groups, there was a substantially different duration of diabetes mellitus (p = 0.004). Conclusions: There were significant variations in the mean age, HbA1c (%), FPG, and duration of diabetes mellitus and widowed patients between the uncontrolled and controlled diabetes groups, resulting in a reduced quality of life in uncontrolled diabetes patients.
Correlation of glycated haemoglobin( HbA1c) with TNF-? and Oxidised-LDL in Type 2 DM
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Pawar, P; Dhama, A; Chahal, A; Ghalaut, VS.
Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) is rising as a major health concern worldwide. The pathogenesis of DM and its complications involve an array of dynamic interactions between genes, inflammatory cytokines like TNF-?, oxidative stress, environmental factors, and lifestyle. Several studies have shown a strong correlation of Ox-LDL (Ox- idized low-density lipoprotein) and TNF-? (tumor necrosis factor-?) with IR (insulin resistance). Hence, the present study was designed to study the correlation between HbA1c (glycated hemoglobin) (a marker of glycemic control) with TNF-? (a marker of chronic inflammation) and Ox-LDL (a marker of oxidative stress). Aim and objectives: To study the correlation between TNF-? and Ox-LDL with HbA1c in Type 2 DM. Methods: For our pilot study, we recruited patients with type 2 DM belonging to the age group 35-50 years of either gender from Medicine OPD as cases. The institutional ethics committee approval has been taken before commence- ment of the study. After informed consent from patients, venous blood samples were collected and analyzed using a biochemistry autoanalyzer and appropriate ELISA kit. Data were analyzed statistically using SPSS software. Result: The study showed raised levels of HbA1c, TNF-?, and OX-LDL in type 2 DM patients. Conclusion: Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was observed between TNF-? and HbA1c (r = 0.829) and also between Ox-LDL and HbA1c (r = 0.638).
Perspectives of parents and caregivers about vaccination during COVID-19 pandemic: An online cross-sectional study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-11) Arunnair, V; S., B; AT, SV; MS, U; Mutalik, AV; Selvamalar, JA.
Background: The most economical preventive health measure to safeguard youngsters from vaccine-preventable diseases, ensure a disease-free future, and prevent socio-economic disasters is immunization. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic led to a major backslide in childhood vaccinations. Hence, it is important to assess the parental knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) towards childhood vaccination amid the prevailing pandemic. Objectives: This study evaluated the KAP of parents and caregivers about immunization. Materials and methods: A prospective cross-sectional online questionnaire (Google Form)-based study was done using convenient sampling among 105 parents and caregivers at a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore for 6 months. Descriptive and inferential statistics (ANOVA, Chi-square, Pearson correlation test, and Unpaired t-test) were used. The results were depicted in terms of numbers and percentages. The data obtained was evaluated using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 28 for Windows. Results: The mean KAP scores of parents/caregivers about vaccination were 4.99 ± 2.05, 10.63 ± 2.28, and 6.67 ± 1.77, respectively. 61.9%, 58.1%, and 52.4% had good KAP scores, respectively. Participants’ knowledge and atti- tude showed a positive correlation (p < 0.032); however, there was no significant relationship between knowledge and attitude with practice. Urban residents and employed respondents had better attitude and practice scores than rural (p < 0.029) and unemployed (p < 0.033) correspondingly. Conclusion: The population under investigation had a good level of KAP; nevertheless, a gap was noticed in practice. Enhancing the study population’s awareness through educational campaigns and effective communication could help overcome these obstacles and ensure adequate immunization practices.
Second trimester placental location as a predictor of adverse pregnancy outcomes
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) VS, B; Gopal, AK; KM, B.
Background: Placenta forms an important anatomical and physiological connection between the mother and fetus. Placenta is associated with many fetal and maternal problems. It has a key role in the nutrition of the fetus, oxygena- tion, endocrine, and other body functions. Hence it is important for a healthy pregnancy and its outcomes. The uterine blood supply is not uniformly distributed. The site of the implantation and the resultant location of the placenta within the uterus are likely to be the important determinants of placental blood flow and therefore pregnancy success. Placen- tal location has been implicated in preterm birth, fetal mal-position and mal-presentation, IUGR, Low APGAR score, and development of preeclampsia. Objectives: The objective of the study is to find out whether there is any significant correlation between second trimester placental location with the following Fetal outcomes like intra uterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, low APGAR at 1 minute (i.e. <7), NICU admission, abnormal presentation and maternal outcomes such as preeclampsia, abruption, ante partum hemorrhage due to placental praevia, postpartum hemorrhage. Materials and Methods Study Design: A prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Government Medical College Hospital in Kerala for a period of 12 months after getting the approval of the Institu- tional Ethic Committee (IEC)/Institutional Review Board (IRB) of the Institution. Population for the study is antenatal women of the age group 18 to 35 years without any high risk factors. Sample size is calculated as 390 with criteria for inclusion and exclusion. Sampling procedure used is simple random sampling (SRS). The main tools used for the study were case records, obstetric USG, clinical examination findings, and lab reports. The placental location was identified by Ultra Sonography done between 18 and 24 weeks. Location of the placenta was classified as fundal, uni- lateral, and low for the study. The outcome variables selected for the study comes under two categories i.e. maternal outcomes and fetal outcomes. The maternal outcomes are preeclampsia, placental abruption, ante partum hemorrhage due to placental praevia and post-partum hemorrhage and fetal outcomes are intra uterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, low APGAR at 1 minute (i.e. <7), NICU admission and abnormal presentation. Analysis: In chi square test we get a p value. If p value is less than 0.05 then we treat it as a significant association between the variables. If the p value is less than 0.01 then there is highly significant association between the variables in the study. Results: There is a significant relation between the placental location in the second trimester and the maternal out- comes such as preeclampsia, APH in placental praevia and fetal outcomes such as IUGR, low APGAR at 1 minute (i.e. <7), and NICU admission. It is also found that there is no significant association between placental location in the second trimester and maternal outcomes such as placental abruption, postpartum hemorrhage, and fetal outcomes such as preterm birth and abnormal presentation. Conclusion: With the help of Ultra Sonography, a simple, noninvasive, easy to perform, cost effective diagnostic method, the location of placenta can easily made out and thereby identifying the above high-risk cases such as IUGR, low APGAR at 1 minute (i.e. <7), preeclampsia and APH in placental praevia. By identifying such patients appropriate treatment can be initiated and regular follow-up can be done in advance.
Correlation of sleep deprivation and lipid profile among healthy volunteers – A crosssectional study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Mathialagan, RM; K, D.
Background: Sleep deprivation acts as a potential risk factor for causing metabolic imbalance in our body. It increases cortisol level and contributes to insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Hence, it is necessary to identify the importance of adequacy of sleep in optimizing lipid metabolism. Objective: To find out the impact of sleep deprivation on the lipid profile among healthy volunteers. Methods: Participant’s sleep quality was assessed by administering the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) ques- tionnaire. The lipid profile parameters like total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) were obtained from their clinical records. Based on PSQI scores study population was divided into group A (score <5) and group B (score ?5).The statistical analysis was performed by using students paired t-test. Correlations of lipid profile with their quality of sleep were performed using Pearson’s correlation. Results: The PSQI values were also found to be increased in group B compared to group A. When compared with group A, group B showed increased TG, LDL, and VLDL levels with a p value of 0.0017, 0.000, 0.0517, respectively. TC (0.832) and LDL (0.9144) showed positive statistical correlation with high PSQI score. HDL (?0.5542) showed negative correlation with high PSQI score. TG and VLDL showed weak positive correlation. Conclusion: In our study the participants with high PSQI score had more sleep disturbance and abnormal lipid profile when compared to participants with normal PSQI score. So, quality of sleep plays an integral role in preventing dys- lipidemia and cardiovascular disorders.
The Association Between Obesity and Cognitive Function in Middle-Aged Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in South India
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) A, DB; Johnson, P; K, MK.
Background: Obesity has emerged as a critical public health issue in India, with a notable rise in prevalence, particu- larly among women. The relationship between obesity and cognitive function remains underexplored, especially in non-Western populations. Aim: This study aims to investigate the association between obesity and cognitive function in middle-aged women in Chennai, South India. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 140 healthy female subjects aged 40-60 years, categorized into four groups based on BMI: Normal (18.5-22.9 kg/m²), At Risk (23-24.9 kg/m²), Obese 1 (25.0-29.9 kg/m²), and Obese 2 (>30 kg/m²). Anthropometric measurements were taken, and cognitive function was assessed using the Ad- denbrooke’s Cognitive Examination (ACE) questionnaire, covering domains such as attention/orientation, memory, verbal fluency, language, and visuo-spatial abilities. Data analysis was performed using R statistical software, with ANOVA and post hoc tests to compare groups, and Pearson correlation to examine associations between anthropomet- ric values and cognitive scores. Results: Significant differences were found in height, weight, BMI, waist circumference, hip circumference, and neck circumference across BMI groups (p < 0.001). Cognitive scores significantly decreased with increasing BMI across all domains (p = 0.0001). orientation/attention, memory, verbal fluency, language, and visuo-spatial ability scores were lowest in the Obese 2 group. Strong negative correlations were observed between BMI (r = -0.84, p = 0.0001), waist circumference (r = -0.49, p = 0.0001), hip circumference (r = -0.54, p = 0.0001), neck circumference (r = -0.41, p = 0.0001), and cognitive scores. The waist-hip ratio did not show a significant correlation with cognitive scores. Conclusion: This study demonstrates a significant association between obesity and cognitive impairment in mid- dle-aged women. Reducing excess weight through interventions such as diet and physical activity may improve cog- nitive function and reduce morbidity and mortality. Early intervention is crucial for optimal benefits.
Study of nerve conduction parameters in median nerve in diabetic patients that were asymptomatic for neuropathy
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Arora, M; Garg, N.
Background: Diabetic neuropathy (DN) is the most frequent and debilitating complication of diabetes mellitus but many patients are asymptomatic for DN, thereby placing them at risk for developing serious complications in hands and feet. Aim: Our study was done to detect subclinical diabetic peripheral neuropathy in early stages in motor fibers of median nerve using nerve conduction studies and compare the findings with age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Methods: Cases consisted of one hundred patients of type 2 diabetes mellitus but asymptomatic for peripheral neu- ropathy. Twenty-five normal, healthy individuals served as controls. The studies of distal latency, amplitude, and conduction velocity of motor fibers of right and left median nerves were performed. Results: There was a statistically significant increase in mean distal latency and decrease in motor nerve conduction velocity (MNCV) for median nerve on both sides in cases versus controls. The mean CMAP (compound muscle action potential) amplitude was decreased in both median nerves in cases versus controls, which was statistically significant on right side but on left side the difference was not statistically significant. Data are presented as mean ± SD. Results were evaluated by unpaired t-test. A level of p < 0.05 was accepted as statistically significant. Conclusion: The study showed significant impairment of median nerve motor conduction parameters in T2DM patients who were asymptomatic for features suggestive of peripheral neuropathy when compared with apparently healthy individuals. The findings in our study further strengthen the existing literature in respect of median nerve neuropathy in T2DM with stress on early screening, detection, and quick therapeutic intervention in people with or without symptoms of DN.
Obstetric outcomes in pregnant women with low pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) levels
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Azeez, A; Nair, HS; Vasanthakumari, N; Jacob, JT; Fathima, S.
Background: Pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) is traditionally one of the combined biochemical screening methods for aneuploidies. Though PAPP-A has been found in many human organs, including the colon, kidneys, breast, and bone marrow, it is found more in pregnant woman’s serum due to the production by syncyt- io-trophoblast of the placenta. Recent studies have explored the use of PAPP-A for the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This study focuses on the obstetric outcomes in pregnant women with low PAPP-A levels. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study conducted in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, SAT Hospital, Trivandrum among antenatal women of gestational age 11 to 14 weeks. They were followed up to see the difference in pregnancy outcomes between women with low PAPP-A and normal PAPP-A levels. Results: Women with low PAPP-A are at a significantly higher risk of complications as fetal growth restriction, preec- lampsia, preterm birth, low birth weight, and neonatal complications. Conclusion: The study supports the association between low PAPP-A levels and adverse obstetric outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of identifying and closely monitoring pregnant women with low PAPP-A. Future research should focus on elucidating the underlying mechanisms linking low PAPP-A levels with adverse outcomes and exploring potential interventions to mitigate the risks associated with low PAPP-A levels.
Evaluation of rationality of Drug Promotional Literatures as per WHO criteria in a tertiary care teaching hospital of southern Rajasthan: A cross sectional study
(?Eldaghayes Publisher, 2024-12) Kamlekar, SK; Yadav, AK; Singh, S; Pichholiya, M; Rathore, A; Gupta, S.
Introduction: Pharmaceutical companies employ various advertising strategies to promote their drugs through promotional materials. However, the information presented may lack the necessary details to maintain the consistency of Drug Promotional Literature (DPL) because it does not adhere to the promotional guidelines set by the World Health Organization (WHO), which can result in inappropriate prescription Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate accuracy and rationality of Drug Promotional Literature (DPL) by following WHO-Ethical criteria, 1988 norms Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was carried out for ten months, from June 2023 to April 2024 in various outpatient departments at a tertiary care teaching hospital in Rajasthan, India Results: A total of 135 DPLs were gathered and evaluated among them 9.62% DPLs were fulfilling the WHO guideline criteria. The remaining DPLs quote brand name 100%, generic/INN name 94.81%, dosage form 92.59%, active ingredient 82.96%, and therapeutic use 85.93%. The modest reported findings which include references 58.52%, side effects 41.48%, precautions and warnings 33.33%, and drug-drug interactions 23.70%. The references cited 25.19% were from journals, websites 20.74% followed by 7.41% data base and books 5.19%. The 75.56% claims were about efficacy, 56.30% for safety, and convenience 64.44% followed by cost 31.11% and pharmacokinetic property 25.93% was quoted Conclusion: In our research, we find that most drug promotional materials fail to uphold competence, excellence, and uniformity in their advertisements. The pharmaceutical companies did not adhere fully to the WHO ethical guidelines when promoting a drug. Continuous awareness and training initiatives at the institutional level during medical education will enhance clinicians' ability to evaluate and compose accurate, rational, and cost-effective medication choices.

Browse

Recent Submissions