Objectives: Dengue and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) are significant mosquito-borne viral diseases posing serious public health challenges in Assam. Both diseases caused by viruses from the Flaviviridae family share Aedes and Culex mosquitoes as their primary vectors. Karbi Anglong is one of the most affected districts in the state and country, necessitating a detailed investigation into the healthcare challenges. This study aims to determine the awareness level, availability of healthcare services, and other contributing factors to the occurrence of Dengue and JE in Karbi Anglong through a qualitative approach. Materials and Methods: For this study, a targeted sample was selected from the population, comprising various age groups, health workers, community heads, and a mixed population. Specific criteria were considered for selecting individual participants. The study employed in-depth interviews, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions as data collection methods. A total of 135 participants took part in the interviews and discussions. Results: Several factors contributing to the disease’s propagation were highlighted by participants during interviews and discussions. These included low awareness levels, inadequate municipal roles, high population density in some selected areas, and preference for traditional approaches over medical care, socio-economic status, and the presence of migrant populations. The healthcare facilities were inadequate to handle the dengue outbreak in the years 2022–2023. Conclusion: The study identified major causes influencing the prevalence of these diseases in Karbi Anglong. Respondents also offered necessary suggestions, emphasizing that community awareness and mitigation efforts were lacking. Strengthening these efforts could help prevent the occurrence and prevalence of these diseases in the region.
Objectives: Artificial intelligence (AI) has progressed greatly, with ChatGPT appearing as a robust tool that employs machine learning to produce human-like replies. The study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of dentistry students of Gujarat toward ChatGPT, addressing this gap. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and awareness of dentistry students in Gujarat, India, regarding ChatGPT. Data were collected using an online survey with informed consent and 15 closed-ended questions, distributed to 14 dental colleges in Gujarat. A total of 1,564 participants were included based on a prevalence rate of 80.6% from a pilot study. Descriptive and inductive statistical methods were used for the analysis of data. Results: Out of 1,570 responses, most participants were 22 years old (21.9%), with females outnumbering males by 38%. Fourth-year undergraduates made up the majority (31%), while 2 nd - and 3 rd -year postgraduates had the least responses (2%). The highest institutional participation was from the College of Dental Sciences, Amargadh (14%). All findings were significant ( p < 0.001), highlighting strong awareness and positive attitudes amongst dentistry students of Gujarat. Conclusion: It was concluded that ChatGPT, among students at dental colleges in Gujarat, showed a strong understanding of ChatGPT being an AI-based text search engine, with 86% correctly identifying its nature. Awareness of ChatGPT’s functionalities was high, particularly in creative content generation and reinforcement learning. In general, participants showed favorable views on incorporating ChatGPT into dental education, though worries regarding its effects on conventional learning approaches and rising screen time were mentioned.
Dental anxiety in children is a common issue for pediatric dentistry and can negatively affect cooperation, treatment outcomes, and long-term oral health behaviors. Children often associate dental visits with fear, pain, and unfamiliar environments, which may lead to avoidance of dental treatment. One effective approach to reducing patient anxiety is the use of distraction techniques. Over time, the types of distraction media available have become increasingly diverse. This study aims to review the effectiveness of distraction techniques in reducing anxiety among children undergoing dental treatment. A literature review was conducted using electronic databases including PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct. Articles published between 2010 and 2024 were searched using the keywords “pediatric dental anxiety”, “distraction techniques”, :audiovisual distraction”, “virtual reality”, and music therapy. Studies involving children undergoing dental procedures and evaluating distraction-based interventions were included. The reviewed studies indicate that distraction techniques, such as audiovisual media and audio media significantly reduce dental anxiety in pediatric dental patients. Anxiety reduction was evaluated through both subjective measures (behavioral scales and anxiety scores) and objective indicators (blood pressure and heart rate). Distraction techniques are effective behavioral management strategies for reducing dental anxiety in children. Audiovisual distraction, virtual reality, and interactive distraction methods appear to provide the most consistent benefits in improving patient cooperation and reducing anxiety during dental procedures.
To promote accuracy, reliability, and patient safety in laboratory diagnostics, the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 15189 has been established as an important standard for medical laboratories worldwide, ensuring that they meet stringent laboratory quality requirements. Despite this, its implementation is not an easy task and presents challenges such as the resource-intensive nature of ISO15189 adoption, training gaps, and resistance to change in many regions, particularly in low-resource settings, when incorporating a unified approach to laboratory quality management system (QMS). The risk-based thinking, patient-centered care, and standard flexibility have allowed laboratories to adopt new technologies such as automation and digital platforms to enhance accuracy, efficiency, and patient care. Furthermore, integration with regulatory frameworks has facilitated harmonization across different countries, resulting in a more consistent approach to laboratory quality systems. The future of ISO 15189 is characterized by an increasing focus on collaborative efforts, the digital revolution of laboratories, sustainability, and proactive risk management. This is an attempt to analyze the current scenario of QMS in the context of ISO 15189, focusing on its implementation, challenges, and future directions to make ISO 15189 more accessible to laboratories globally.
Objectives: Pre-hypertension is a clinically significant risk factor for future hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Early lifestyle interventions such as leisure-time physical activity (LTPA) can prevent progression to hypertension. This study aimed to compare the effects of walking and chair aerobics on blood pressure (BP) in pre-hypertensive young adults. Materials and Methods: Forty pre-hypertensive young adults aged 18–25 years were randomly assigned to two groups: Group A (walking) and Group B (chair aerobics), with 20 participants each. The intervention consisted of 30-min sessions, 5 days a week, for 4 weeks. Outcomes included systolic BP (SBP) and diastolic BP (DBP), rate pressure product (RPP), and body mass index (BMI). Data were analyzed using paired and unpaired t -tests. Results: Both groups showed significant reductions in SBP, DBP, and RPP. In Group A, SBP reduced from 125.5 to 119.2 mmHg and DBP from 82.0 to 77.8 mmHg ( p < 0.05). In Group B, SBP reduced from 125.7 to 117.5 mmHg and DBP from 82.2 to 78.7 mmHg ( p < 0.05). RPP was also significantly reduced in both groups. No significant changes were noted in BMI. There was no statistically significant difference between the groups post-intervention. Conclusion: Both walking and chair aerobics are effective in reducing BP and RPP in pre-hypertensive young adults. Chair aerobics can serve as an alternative for individuals with limited mobility or space constraints. These findings support the integration of LTPA into early hypertension prevention strategies.
Objectives: Pre-diabetes is one of the risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes mellitus, which has become a worldwide epidemic with significant associated complications. Regular screening for pre-diabetes is not commonly performed by healthcare providers in primary care settings. This study aimed to evaluate anthropometric risk factors and blood pressure (BP) as indicators of pre-diabetes in adults seeking treatment at a tertiary healthcare facility. Materials and Methods: This research was a cross-sectional, comparative study involving 100 participants over a period of 4 months, utilizing pre-tested interviewer-administered surveys. Participants were assessed for fasting blood glucose and BP readings, selected consecutively, and matched by age and gender. The data analysis was conducted using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences Version 23. Results: Body mass index, waist circumference, and systolic BP were significantly associated with pre-diabetes ( p < 0.05). After adjusting for cofounders, logistic regression analysis showed that these anthropometric factors were independently correlated with pre-diabetes. Conclusion: The anthropometric traits were notably associated with pre-diabetes and also demonstrated an independent relationship. It is essential for healthcare professionals to monitor these aspects in primary care settings. Clinicians should maintain a heightened awareness of abnormal glucose levels in individuals displaying these characteristics and take proactive steps for early detection and intervention to prevent the progression to overt diabetes mellitus and its related complications.
Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hypertension and identify associated factors among pensioners in three districts of Kigali City, Rwanda. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 220 pensioners aged ≥60 years in three districts of Kigali City between July 5 and August 20, 2023. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, medical history (including HIV and diabetes), behavioral factors, anthropometry, and occupational stress were collected using a structured questionnaire, and blood pressure was measured. Hypertension was defined as the use of antihypertensive medication or an average systolic blood pressure ≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with hypertension, with results presented as adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Data were analyzed using STATA version 15.1, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Results: Among the 220 participants, 53.2% had hypertension, with a higher proportion among men (65.8%). HIV-positive participants had significantly higher odds of hypertension (AOR: 18.41, 95% CI: 3.23–104.93) compared to HIV-negative individuals. Participants with diabetes mellitus had higher odds of hypertension (AOR: 16.87, 95% CI: 1.59–178.84) compared to those without diabetes. Participants reporting occasional work-related stress had increased odds of hypertension (AOR: 2.90, 95% CI: 1.20–7.02). Frequent work-related stress was also associated with higher odds of hypertension (AOR: 13.51, 95% CI: 2.21–82.83). Conclusion: This study found a high prevalence of hypertension among urban pensioners in Kigali City, with HIV infection, diabetes mellitus, and occupational stress identified as associated factors. These findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, including HIV prevention, stress management, promotion of physical activity, and healthy lifestyle practices.
This review aims to identify and summarize the current evidence on the role of Vitamin A (Vit. A) in rheumatic diseases, focusing on its clinical and immunological effects. A comprehensive search of PubMed/MEDLINE and complementary databases was conducted to identify studies evaluating Vit. A in rheumatic diseases, covering the period from 1966 to May 2024. Relevant studies were reviewed and synthesized. The search revealed very limited human data; however, besides systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), Vit. A–based interventions have also been evaluated in other rheumatologic contexts such as Sjögren’s syndrome and osteoarthritis (through a Vit. A–containing formulation). A small number of published studies assessed the effects of Vit. A supplementation or Vit. A-containing formulations, including two studies in SLE and additional evidence in Sjögren’s syndrome and osteoarthritis. Findings suggested potential immunological benefits, including modulation of cellular immune responses, with minimal reported adverse effects. In addition, Vit. A plays a recognized role in epithelial barrier integrity and host defense, suggesting a potential relevance for infection susceptibility in immunocompromised rheumatology patients. Overall, current evidence regarding the use of Vit. A in rheumatic diseases remains scarce, heterogeneous, and largely focused on lupus, despite limited data in other rheumatologic conditions. Further well-designed clinical studies are warranted to clarify its therapeutic relevance, safety profile, and potential role in infection susceptibility among patients with rheumatic diseases.
Objectives: To assess the risk and prevalence of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) among young women students of Sri Padmavathi Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati and to evaluate their education level dependent awareness regarding this leading hormonal disorder, with an emphasis on early identification and preventive measures. Materials and Methods: Approved questionnaires were used based on medical history, body mass index, and acanthosis nigricans for data acquisition and analysis to determine the prevalence of PCOS in 306 female students (18–24 years old) of Sri Padmavathi Mahila Visvavidyalayam, Tirupati. Results: The participants in this study were 306 young, single women with regular waist circumferences and weights, but a significant percentage also reported having stress and depression. Familial history of PCOS was observed less frequently, while diabetes was more common. Although there were minor anomalies, most respondents had predictable menstrual periods and psychological lethargy. In relevance to lifestyle, family history, and mental health, screening and treatment of PCOS are underscored in the study outcomes. Conclusion: The study explored the need for greater consciousness. Although 20 students participated in a focused educational intervention, detailed findings were not statistically analyzed and thus are not reported here. Nevertheless, the initiative underscored the need for increasing awareness of PCOS among young women. Therefore, the research is better applicable in addressing the primary health care concerns as it acknowledges the value of a university education in promoting early detection and proactive treatment against PCOS-like ailments.
Objectives: The research study centered on determining the knowledge, perception, and practice of standard operating procedures (SOPs) among health care workers in Primary Health Centres in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. The specific objectives are: to assess the knowledge of standard precautions among health care workers in Primary Health Centres in Calabar, assess the perception of health workers towards the practice of SOPs, to assess the attitude of health care workers towards the practice of SOPs and to identify factors associated with the practice of SOPs by health workers in these primary health centers. Related literature was reviewed. Materials and Methods: A descriptive survey design was employed in this study. The total population was studied, and a total of 162 health workers were recruited for this study. A semi-structured self-administered questionnaire was used to extract information from the respondents. Descriptive statistics such as mean, frequency distribution, and percentages were used to analyze the data using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 25 software. Chi-square was used to associations between dependent and independent variables. Result: The result revealed that there were more females (86.4%) who participated in the studies than their male counterparts (13.6%). The majority (44%) were within their mid age of 31–40 years, followed by (25.3%) who were within the age range of 21–30 years of age. Furthermore, the study showed that most of the respondents defined SOPs, as guidelines for all primary health care (PHC) workers (84%) and believed that they should be used by all PHC workers (87.7%). Respondents identified providing guidelines (87.7%) and standardizing patient care (87.7%) as the primary purposes of SOPs. The respondents believed that SOPs provide a framework for taking history and physical examination (93.9%). Similarly, most of them think that SOPs help maintain a high standard of care and uniform treatment (95.1%). For the knowledge of SOPs, 34.0% had poor knowledge, while 66.0% demonstrated good knowledge, 36.4% had a negative perception, while 63.6% demonstrated a positive perception toward the practice of SOPs, and 45.7% had a poor attitude, while 54.3% showed a good attitude towards the practice of SOPs. Not being trained and retrained to use SOPs was significantly ( p < 0.05) associated with their usage, with respondents who agreed that they had not been trained to use SOPs being less likely to use them daily, we reject the null hypothesis, which states that not being trained and retrained does not impact the use of SOPs. Conclusion: Primary health centers are very essential in every society as they serve the purpose of ensuring people receive quality, comprehensive first contact care ranging from promotion and prevention to treatment, rehabilitation, and palliative care as close as possible to people’s everyday environment. There is hope for the PHC system in Calabar as the majority of healthcare workers grasp the importance of SOPs and their benefits for maintaining the standard of care and improving the outcomes of patients.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide and is emerging as a major public health concern in India due to rising obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and sedentary lifestyles. Indian studies report a wide prevalence of NAFLD, affecting both obese and lean individuals, with an increasing burden also seen among children and adolescents. Although often asymptomatic, NAFLD can progress to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Diagnosis mainly relies on ultrasonography and non-invasive fibrosis assessment, while management is centered on lifestyle modification and metabolic risk factor control. Given its growing clinical and public health impact, early recognition and preventive strategies are essential. This review summarizes the current evidence on the epidemiology, pathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis, management, and public health implications of NAFLD in India.
Objectives: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a long-term condition marked by high blood sugar, insulin resistance, and related health problems. Circadian rhythms (our internal 24-h biological clocks) play an important role in regulating body functions, including metabolism. Impairment of these rhythms is thought to contribute to the development of metabolic diseases such as T2DM. The objective of the study is to investigate the correlation between circadian rhythm impairment and T2DM and assess whether this impairment affects the clinical profile of diabetic patients. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at SRN Hospital, MLN Medical College, Prayagraj, from March 2024 to March 2025. A total of 109 postmenopausal women were enrolled and screened for diabetes. Circadian rhythm status was assessed using the composite morningness-eveningness questionnaire (CMEQ). Biochemical markers, anthropometric parameters, and glycemic indicators (fasting blood sugar and glycated hemoglobin [HbA1c]) were evaluated. Results: Among 109 participants, 46 were diabetic. The mean CMEQ score among diabetic participants (45.1 ± 4.25) was comparable to that of nondiabetics (44.4 3.82; p = 0.350), indicating a similar circadian rhythm preference between the two groups. Overall circadian rhythm distribution did not differ significantly according to diabetic status. Importantly, higher morningness-eveningness questionnaire (MEQ) scores reflecting greater morningness were associated with better glycemic status, while participants with lower MEQ scores tended to have higher HbA1c levels. This suggests that a more morning-oriented circadian pattern may be associated with improved glycemic control in postmenopausal women. Conclusion: Although no strong statistical association was found between circadian rhythm type and diabetes, the observed patterns suggest that daily rhythm may play a role in blood sugar control. More long-term and detailed studies are needed to better understand how body clocks affect diabetes and whether adjusting them could help manage the disease.
Objectives: Cystic echinococcosis is a zoonotic parasitic infection caused by larval stages of the cestode Echinococcus granulosus , and is an uncommon infectious disorder in human beings, but when present, the liver is the most common location of the echinococcal cyst (>65%), followed by lungs (25%). The slow-growing nature of cysts is responsible for their late presentation, usually as complications such as cyst rupture, secondary infection, suppuration, and pneumothorax. Cyst rupture may lead to an abrupt onset of chest pain, hemoptysis, cough, and fever. Urticaria and wheezing may arise because of hypersensitivity to fluid from a ruptured cyst, which may be life-threatening, so a pulmonary hydatid cyst needs proper emergency management, and delay in management contributes to a sequence of complications, which, if not taken care of may be life-threatening. Materials and Methods: Pulmonary hydatid cysts can be safely operated on with low morbidity and negligible mortality rates. We relate to share our experience of 55 cases of pulmonary hydatid cyst and its surgical management, keep it simple and safe (KISS) technique of enucleation of hydatid cyst and obliteration of residual cavity devised by amalgamation of available techniques for lung cyst removal. Results: By our technique, we achieved maximal conservation of functional pulmonary parenchyma with no post-operative air leak and fatality with no recurrence. Conclusion: The KISS technique has maximal benefits compared to alternative techniques, illustrated by others with minimum morbidity and no mortality. Technique leads to maximal pulmonary parenchyma preservation with no post-operative air leak and no recurrence.
Primitive neuroectodermal tumors (PNETs), particularly Ewing sarcoma (EES), are rare, aggressive malignancies typically observed in children and adolescents. While they commonly arise in skeletal locations, about 20–30% of cases occur in extraskeletal sites, complicating diagnosis. Extraskeletal Ewing sarcoma (EES) involving the omentum is exceedingly rare, with only a few documented cases. This report presents a case of EES localized to the omentum in an adult patient, underscoring the diagnostic challenges and importance of early identification. A 34-year-old Bahraini male presented with progressive abdominal distention, weight loss, fever, night sweats, and flank pain. Imaging revealed omental thickening and diffuse ascites. A laparoscopic biopsy and histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of EES, with molecular confirmation of the EWSR1 translocation (t(11;22)(p13;q12)). EES in the omentum presents diagnostic challenges, often mimicking conditions such as peritoneal carcinomatosis and tuberculosis. This case emphasizes the critical role of integrating clinical, radiological, histological, and molecular data to accurately diagnose rare tumors like EES, and the importance of recognizing unusual presentations to avoid misdiagnosis. EES should be considered in the differential diagnosis of abdominal masses, particularly in patients with unexplained systemic symptoms and imaging findings suggestive of malignant processes. A comprehensive diagnostic approach, including molecular analysis, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective management.
In Hinduism, the Goddess of wealth, Lakshmi, and the Goddess of learning, Saraswati, are well known. It has been mentioned that where Lakshmi is worshipped, Saraswati will not arrive, and vice versa. In some respects, the goddesses are more allies than competitors, and in images, they are seated on both sides of Lord Ganesh, the God of wisdom. The authors of this manuscript have long experience with medical education in India and Nepal. Each medical college requires both knowledge resources and financial resources for its functioning. Conventionally, medical colleges are run by the government or by non-governmental organizations. During the past few decades, several private medical colleges have been opened in India, Nepal, and other countries. Even government institutions are supported by taxpayer money. With increasing population and financial growth, the market for private self-financing institutions is growing. A fear that the quality of education may be compromised has been expressed. Many doctors from developing nations migrate to developed nations after graduation. In these cases, the two Goddesses may be migrating together to a richer region. Most nations have different mechanisms for assuring the quality of professional education, including medicine. Many institutions have invested substantial resources in learning facilities and resources. The cost that should be charged to students is also important. The fees charged should be adequate to meet the institutional requirements for growth and development. Prospective students and their guardians should have access to objective, impartial information when deciding on an institution and a course of study. In many developing nations, educational institutions owned by the government, trusts and private agencies will continue to coexist. The two Goddesses play an important role in modern education, and the wisdom of Lord Ganesh is required to ensure that they get along synergistically.
The study aimed to determine (i) the patient-reported treatment experience of Jala neti (JN) and Nasyam (NS) in individuals with symptoms of rhinosinusitis, and (ii) the immediate effects of JN and NS on symptoms of rhinosinusitis. Forty-one patients (group average age ± standard deviation; 43.90 ± 13.94 years) with symptoms of rhinosinusitis (i.e., nasal obstruction, nasal secretion, facial pain, and headache) with a rating of 4 or higher on a visual analog scale (VAS) for any of the two symptoms were recruited. Of these, 21 received JN and 20 received NS. Treatment experience was assessed using the treatment experience questionnaire. The intensity of rhinosinusitis symptoms (i.e., nasal obstruction, nasal secretion, facial pain, and headache) was assessed before and after the JN and NS using separate VAS. The treatment experience was compared using Mann–Whitney U-test. The immediate effect of JN and NS on the intensity of rhinosinusitis symptoms was determined using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The experience of negative bodily sensations differed significantly between JN and NS, with lower negative bodily sensations after JN ( P < 0.05, Mann–Whitney U-test). There was a significant reduction in (i) nasal obstruction, (ii) nasal secretion, (iii) facial pain, and (iv) headache after JN and NS ( P < 0.05; Wilcoxon signed-rank test). JN had lower negative bodily sensations compared to NS. Both JL and NS are effective in reducing the intensity of symptoms of rhinosinusitis. The findings suggest that JN may be preferred over NS for patients who are excessively anxious or unwell.
Human resource management (HRM) plays a vital role in healthcare by shaping workforce strategies that impact both employee well-being and patient care. This review explores the latest trends and present status of HRM in healthcare, focusing on recruitment, retention, compliance, and workforce satisfaction. The study provides an in-depth analysis of challenges such as workforce shortages, burnout, and regulatory compliance, while also discussing best practices, including workforce planning, employee well-being programs, and technological advancements. The impact of HRM on patient care is analyzed in terms of staffing adequacy, training programs, and interdisciplinary collaboration. In addition, the review compares human resource (HR) strategies in developed and developing countries and highlights the role of digital transformation in HRM. By synthesizing the existing literature, this review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of HRM’s influence on healthcare delivery and workforce sustainability. The study concludes with recommendations for improving HR practices to optimize healthcare outcomes and workforce efficiency.
In India, the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers (NABH) has become a well-respected framework that’s helped raise standards in many hospitals. Both private and public hospitals are now looking to get NABH accreditation, but public hospitals face a few challenge because they often deal with larger patient numbers and have limited resources. Public hospitals, especially big ones that serve a mix of different communities, tend to struggle with things such as old infrastructure and strict regulations. This review goes into these challenges, looking at the main obstacles that public hospitals face when they try to meet NABH standards. It covers areas such as money issues, lack of staff, and inefficiencies that make the accreditation process tougher. The review also suggests a few strategies and policy ideas that could help public hospitals push through these problems, with the goal of improving patient care across the board. By focusing on these challenges, this review hopes to give some useful insights to hospital administrators, policymakers, and the accreditation bodies working to make NABH standards a bit easier to achieve for all hospitals in India.
