BACKGROUND:Hyponatremia is one of the most common electrolyte abnormalities in hospitalized patients and is associated with increased mortality. AIMS:The study aimed to determine the prevalence of hyponatremia, risk factors and aetiology in elderly people. SUBJECTS AND METHODS:A cross-sectional study was conducted in hospital settings between March 2023 and November 2024 in 69 male and female participants with hyponatremia. Patients' blood samples were tested for predicted factors (creatinine, blood sugar and hypervolemia). Statistical analysis was performed and P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS:The mean age of the participants was 66.10 years, with 36 (52.2%) male and 33 (47.8%) female patients, while the mean age of severe hyponatremia patients was 59.5 years ( P = 0.04). Hyponatremic patients displayed a depressed serum sodium level (117.35 mEq/L), creatinine level of 0.94 mg/dL and blood sugar level of 140.29 mg/dL. Mean hospital stay duration was 5.96 days, 37 (47.8%) patients had mild hyponatremia, 24 (34.8%) patients had moderate hyponatremia and 8 (17.4%) patients had severe hyponatremia. Patients with severe hyponatremia had significantly higher blood sugar levels, 174.25 mg/dL ( P < 0.001), with no significant correlation with creatinine. A significant association was observed between aetiology and severity of hyponatremia, particularly for the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) and cardiac causes. Severe hyponatremia (β =0.08, P = 0.83), serum creatinine (β =0.68, P = 0.58) and cirrhosis (β = -0.04, P = 0.73) were not significantly associated with length of hospital stay. CONCLUSION:Aetiological factors, especially the SIADH and cardiac causes, demonstrated a significant association with hyponatremia severity. Multivariable logistic regression did not identify any independent predictors of severe hyponatremia.
Abstract Conflicts are unavoidable aspect of human existence, causing disruptions in livelihoods, infrastructure, socioeconomic systems and healthcare access. Among the most severe effects of conflict are those on maternal and child health (MCH) services, on which there is a notable scarcity of research. Consequently, this scoping review examines the impact of conflict on the accessibility of MCH services and their associated treatment outcomes and identifies limitations. A review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews and the Joanna Briggs Institute Methods Manual for scoping review to map works of literature regarding the effects of conflict on MCH across nine databases (PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science and Google Scholar) published in English between January 2000 and May 2024. The quality of the studies was evaluated using NIH tools, resulting in 17 classified as good, 5 as fair and 1 as poor, which was subsequently excluded. A narrative synthesis was employed to categorise the findings based on predisposing, enabling and need factors. Out of 612 records, 23 studies (from 15 countries, predominantly qualitative) confirmed that conflict limits access due to insecurity and displacement (enabling factors, n = 18 studies), modifies health-seeking behaviours (predisposing, n = 12) and increases mortality and malnutrition rates (need, n = 15). (NGO) Non-Governmental Organisation and community outreach efforts were found to alleviate some of these effects (notably in Pakistan and Afghanistan). In addition, three studies examined the intersections of pandemic and conflict, highlighting compounded disruptions. Given the prevalence of ongoing conflicts, it is crucial to comprehend their effects and mitigate the health repercussions for women and children, a topic that warrants significant academic inquiry.
BACKGROUND:Anaesthesia for open abdominal myomectomy is customised to provide a comfortable and pain-free surgical experience for the patient, taking into consideration their medical history, personal preferences and the results of the pre-anaesthesia assessment. OBJECTIVE:The aim of this audit is to assess our current anaesthesia protocols, identify any improvements made since the previous audit and examine the factors that may have contributed to these changes. METHODOLOGY:An analysis was conducted on the various types of anaesthesia techniques administered during open abdominal myomectomy surgeries, based on operating theatre records from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2023. Patients undergoing gynecological procedures other than open abdominal myomectomy were excluded from the study. The findings were presented in the form of figures, proportions and percentages. RESULTS:Our institution provided anaesthesia for 559 open abdominal myomectomies. The predominant technique utilised was Combined Spinal-Epidural Anaesthesia (CSEA), which constituted 44% of the cases, followed by spinal anaesthesia (SA) at 29%, GA at 19% and EA at 8%. Furthermore, as the proportion of the Senior Anaesthesia Registrars and Consultant Anaesthetists increases, the proportion of highly skilled anaesthesia techniques like CSEA and EA increases, while GA and SA techniques reduce. CONCLUSION:Our study reveals a notable evolution in anaesthesia techniques for open abdominal myomectomy at our institution, driven by post-graduate medical training, advances in medical research and the strategic use of available resources to enhance safety and care quality.
Abstract Pineoblastoma (PB) is a rare malignant embryonal tumour arising from the pineal gland. It commonly affects the paediatric age group with a slight male predilection. The typical clinical features include symptoms and signs of raised intracranial pressure, but extracranial metastasis may be seen in poorly differentiated tumours. We present a 5-year-old male who presented with clinical features suggestive of raised intracranial pressure. Radiological investigations revealed a pineal region tumour, and histopathological evaluation confirmed the diagnosis of a PB. The patient was optimised, and he had a right occipital craniotomy and microscopic surgery decompression via interhemispheric transplenial with ventriculoperitoneal shunt inserted. Fever, as a post-operative complication, was noted which necessitated removal of the shunt. The patient did well and was followed up bi-weekly. Unfortunately, the patient presented 5 months later with a recurrence, and he succumbed to his illness. Highlights (Key Messages ) • Pineoblastoma is a high-grade aggressive embryonal tumour arising from the pineal gland • It typically affects the paediatric population with a slight male preponderance • Prognosis is poor with high rates of mortality • Imaging studies are necessary but prompt histopathological evaluation is required for a definitive diagnosis of this tumour
BACKGROUND:The pooled cohort equation (PCE) for predicting the 10-year risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) has been utilised in Black populations to predict cardiovascular events. OBJECTIVE:We explored the relationship between PCE ASCVD risk and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH). MATERIALS AND METHODS:A total of 934 hypertensives from the Federal Medical Centre Abuja Hypertension Registry were analysed for this study. The participants were divided into two groups: those with low ASCVD risk (<7.5%) and those with elevated ASCVD risk (≥7.5%). Electrocardiographic (ECG) LVH was defined by the presence of any of Sokolow-Lyon, Cornell voltage or Gubner-Ungerleider criteria. Echocardiographic LVH was defined as an elevated LV mass index using the linear cube formula of the American College of Cardiology. RESULTS:Participants with elevated ASCVD risk were older (59.2 ± 9.0 years) than those with low ASCVD risk ( P < 0.001). Among participants with elevated ASCVD risk, 299 (42.1%) and 181 (26.3%) had echocardiographic and ECG LVH compared with 75 (32.3%) and 44 (19.6%) in those with low ASCVD risk, respectively ( P < 0.05). Those with elevated ASCVD risk had higher odds of having echocardiographic (odds ratio [OR]: 2.02, 95% confidence interval CI 1.39-2.93) and ECG LVH (OR: 2.00, 95% CI 1.29-3.08) compared to those in the low-risk group ( P < 0.05). CONCLUSION:In this study, an elevated 10-year ASCVD risk was associated with a two-fold increase in the risk of echocardiographic and ECG LVH in a population of Nigerian hypertensives. In resource-limited settings, the use of the ASCVD risk score may facilitate timely referrals for the diagnosis and management of LVH.
ABSTRACT:Post-tuberculous spinal deformity remains an important cause of chronic morbidity following healed spinal tuberculosis, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Residual kyphosis may result in persistent pain, sagittal imbalance, cosmetic deformity and late neurological deterioration. Surgical correction is technically demanding because of rigid deformity and compromised bone quality, yet it may offer meaningful functional recovery when appropriately indicated. We report a case series of three adult patients with post-tuberculous spinal deformity managed surgically at a Nigerian tertiary orthopaedic centre. All patients underwent single-stage posterior-only decompression, deformity correction and pedicle screw-rod instrumentation. Anterior column reconstruction was performed in all cases using either an expandable titanium cage or a fibular strut graft. Clinical, radiological and neurological outcomes were assessed during follow-up. The patients were aged 24-33 years (median 32 years), with follow-up ranging from 26 to 60 months (median 36 months). Two patients presented with thoracic kyphotic deformity (90° and 92°), while one had lumbar involvement (20°). Postoperatively, thoracic kyphosis improved to 25° and 45°, and lumbar alignment was restored to physiological lordosis. The median angular correction achieved was 47° (range 40°-65°). One patient presented with paraparesis (ASIA D) and achieved complete neurological recovery, while the remaining two maintained intact neurology (ASIA E). All patients demonstrated radiological fusion and maintained deformity correction at the latest follow-up, with no implant-related complications. Single-stage posterior-only surgical correction of post-tuberculous spinal deformity in adults can achieve satisfactory deformity correction, solid fusion and neurological recovery in carefully selected patients.
BACKGROUND:The amount of social capital in a community can be an asset for the breakthrough and sustainability of community-based health insurance (CBHI), thereby contributing to the demand for it at the community level. AIMS:This study aimed to assess the relationship between social capital and willingness to pay (WTP) for CBHI in rural communities of Delta State. MATERIALS AND METHODS:A cross-sectional study design was employed to assess the level of social capital and WTP for CBHI among a sample of 412 households using a multistage sampling technique. Data was collected using an interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential analyses of the data collected were carried out using the IBM SPSS version 22 software. RESULTS:the mean age of respondents was 50.42 ± 14.54 years. Females were about half (50.5%) of the respondents, and 19.9% of respondents had no formal education. The mean individual WTP amount per month was 600.75 ± 419.48 naira (1.30 ± 0.91 US dollar). The association between social capital (χ 2 = 193.043; P < 0.001) and WTP for CBHI was statistically significant. Other factors such as sex (χ 2 = 10.168; P = 0.001), education (χ 2 = 14.06; P < 0.001), religion (χ 2 = 40.565; P < 0.001) and household with younger people <18 years (χ 2 = 14.361; P < 0.001) were also significantly associated with WTP for CBHI. CONCLUSION:This study reported a significant association between social capital and WTP for CBHI.
BACKGROUND:Meningitis is a serious infectious disease that can cause significant morbidity and long-term neurological problems. Although a lumbar puncture is a necessary diagnostic procedure, it is often accompanied by discomfort, anxiety, and fear, which can severely impact the patient's experience. Although there is few data on its application prior to lumbar puncture in adult patients with meningitis, immersive virtual reality (VR) has become a promising non-pharmacological technique for lowering procedural distress. Thus, among individuals undergoing lumbar punctures, this randomized controlled research assessed how well pre-procedural VR reduced pain, anxiety, and fear while enhancing patient satisfaction. OBJECTIVE:This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in reducing pain and fear among adults undergoing lumbar puncture (LP) compared with standard care protocol. METHODS:A randomised clinical trial was conducted from May to October 2025, using a single-blind, true experimental design. A total of 85 patients were randomly assigned to either the VR intervention group ( n = 41) or the control group receiving standard care ( n = 44). Pain levels were assessed using a visual analogue scale. Fear was assessed using the Multidimensional Fear-of-Injection Scale. Data were analysed using SPSS version 26. RESULTS:According to the study, the findings revealed a significant reduction in pain levels among the study group following the VR intervention, with mean pain scores dropping from 7.54 ± 1.925 to 2.49 ± 0.675. In contrast, the control group showed increased pain intensity, with mean scores rising from 6.84 ± 1.842 to 8.36 ± 1.348. The VR group showed a significant reduction in fear scores across all domains, whereas no significant changes were observed in the control group. Direct fear decreased from 20.12 ± 1.71 to 9.44 ± 2.00, indirect fear from 17.24 ± 1.46 to 8.66 ± 2.24, physiological response improved from 0.34 ± 0.66 to 3.00 ± 1.00 and avoidance behaviour decreased from 16.71 ± 1.49 to 7.80 ± 1.85. CONCLUSIONS:The research shows that the use of VR prior to LP significantly reduces level of pain and fear compared to standard care. These results support VR as a non-pharmacological intervention for fear and pain to improve patient experience during invasive procedures. In contrast, the control group experienced no improvement.Trial Registration: The IRCT code for the trial was IRCT ID 20250803066743N1.
BACKGROUND:Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy disorder linked with increased maternal and perinatal complications. An imbalance between free radical-induced lipid peroxidation and the antioxidant system may contribute to its pathogenesis. AIMS:This study aimed to compare serum ceruloplasmin levels in women with pre-eclampsia and their normotensive counterparts and to assess its predictive value for disease severity. SUBJECTS AND METHODS:A prospective case-control study was conducted involving 100 pregnant women diagnosed with pre-eclampsia, matched for age and parity against 100 healthy controls. Patients with pre-eclampsia were classified into mild (55) and severe (45) pre-eclampsia groups. Data on demographics, obstetric characteristics and outcomes were collected. Ceruloplasmin protein concentration was measured using a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit. Data analysis was performed using Stata Version 17. The reference range of serum ceruloplasmin for determining the risk of pre-eclampsia was from the 2.5 th to the 97.5 th percentile of the controls. The statistical significance level was set at P < 0.05. RESULTS:The median interquartile range (IQR) serum ceruloplasmin levels were 21 mg/dL (IQR 17.5-23.8) in normotensive women, 35.5 mg/dl (IQR, 33.8-38.3) in mild pre-eclampsia, and 46.5 mg/dL (IQR, 42.5-49) in severe pre-eclampsia, with significant differences ( P = 0.001). The cut-off point for serum ceruloplasmin using Youden's index was 29 mg/dL. Ceruloplasmin exhibited 90.8% sensitivity, 95.6% specificity and positive and negative predictive values and accuracy of 96.1%, 89.6% and 92.3%, respectively, in pre-eclampsia. CONCLUSION:Serum ceruloplasmin was elevated in pre-eclampsia, and the levels correlate with the severity of pre-eclampsia. The sensitivity and specificity observed in this study suggest that ceruloplasmin may be a potential marker for discriminating between normotensive pregnant women and those with pre-eclampsia. Elevated levels may be an indicator of severe disease.
BACKGROUND:Management of open tibial shaft fractures in resource-poor settings presents significant challenges, yet prospective data on treatment outcomes in Sub-Saharan Africa remain limited. These injuries, often resulting from high-energy trauma, carry substantial risks of non-union, deep infection, and long-term disability. In Nigeria, care pathways are frequently adapted due to constraints including cost, implant availability, and limited access to subspecialist care. AIMS:This study prospectively evaluates early (6-month) healing outcomes, infection rates, and associated modifiable factors in patients with open tibial shaft fractures managed at a tertiary orthopaedic hospital in Enugu, Nigeria, to identify targets for quality improvement in trauma care delivery. METHODOLOGY:A prospective, observational study was conducted on 71 consecutively enrolled adult patients with 78 open tibial fractures, managed via a standardised protocol. Primary outcomes were early fracture healing status, surgical site infection (SSI), and length of hospital stay (LOHS). Statistical analyses used fracture as the primary unit of analysis, except for demographic comparisons (per patient). Bivariate tests and multivariate regression identified predictors of outcomes. RESULTS:Of 50 fractures completing follow-up, early union was observed in 68%, with delayed healing in 22% and early non-union in 10% at 6 months. Mean time to union was 16.5 weeks. Overall SSI rate was 44% (22/50), of which 5 were superficial and 17 deep infections ( P =0.023). Gustilo-Anderson Grade IIIB injury ( P =0.001) and presentation >24 hours post-injury ( P =0.025) were key factors associated with impaired early healing. SSI was strongly associated with delayed wound cover >7 days ( P =0.003) and severe injury grade. LOHS (mean 38.5 days) was significantly prolonged by infection, severe injury, and treatment delays. Attrition analysis showed no significant demographic differences between patients who completed follow-up and those lost. CONCLUSION:This study highlights high early complication rates of open tibial fractures in resource-constrained settings. Findings underscore the critical importance of timely patient presentation, expeditious soft-tissue cover, and robust infection prevention protocols. These modifiable factors represent clear targets for systemic improvement in trauma care delivery.
BACKGROUND:Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a prevalent autoimmune disease with a substantial health burden. The Hemoglobin-red cell distribution width ratio (HRR) is a novel inflammation-related biomarker, yet its association with RA risk remains unexplored. AIMS:This study aimed to investigate whether HRR is independently associated with RA risk, given the lack of prior evidence on this relationship. MATERIALS AND METHODS:This population-based study included 34,483 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database, comprising 2403 RA patients. Weighted logistic regression models and restricted cubic spline analyses were employed to examine the relationship between HRR and RA risk, adjusting for demographic and clinical covariates. RESULTS:HRR levels were significantly lower in RA patients compared to non-RA individuals. A significant inverse, approximately linear association was observed between HRR and RA risk. Subgroup analyses showed that this relationship was modified by gender, education level, smoking and drinking status (all P for interaction <0.05). CONCLUSIONS:Lower HRR is independently associated with increased RA risk. These findings highlight HRR as a potential protective factor and provide new insights for RA risk stratification in clinical practice.
BACKGROUND:Hepatitis B is a common cause of chronic liver disease. Early features of fibrosis are detectable using ultrasound and Doppler imaging. AIMS:This study evaluated relationships between hepatic artery Doppler parameters, serum alanine transaminase (ALT) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) quantification (viral load) in seropositive adults with hepatitis B compared with matched healthy controls. MATERIALS AND METHODS:A comparative cross-sectional study assessed grayscale liver ultrasound, hepatic artery Doppler indices, ALT and viral load among 143 asymptomatic hepatitis B-positive adults and matched controls. Liver size, echotexture, resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), ALT and HBV DNA levels were measured. Data were summarised using mean, median and standard deviation. Chi-square and t -tests compared groups, while Pearson correlation assessed relationships among ALT, RI and PI, with significance at P < 0.05. RESULTS:The study compared 143 chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients with 143 healthy controls. No significant differences were observed in liver span (13.0 vs. 12.8 cm) or echogenicity, but hepatic artery Doppler indices were significantly elevated in hepatitis B patients (0.69 vs. 0.61 for RI and 1.25 vs. 0.98 for PI). Elevated ALT levels and detectable viral loads were more common in patients on treatment. Doppler indices correlated significantly with ALT and the viral load, suggesting their potential role in monitoring hepatitis B progression. CONCLUSION:Doppler ultrasound remains a valuable non-invasive tool for assessing hepatic vascular changes among asymptomatic CHB-positive patients with RI and PI revealing those changes. Doppler indices correlated significantly with abnormal serum ALT and elevated viral load levels among hepatitis B-positive patients.
Abstract Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare but potentially life-threatening dermatological condition. It is characterised by diffuse exfoliation of >30% of the skin and mucous membranes due to immune-mediated destruction of the epidermis. It is thought to be due to a hypersensitivity reaction to a variety of medications. The mainstay of treatment involves withdrawal of the potential offending agent, supportive care and use of non-adherent dressings. Pre-packaged dressings are expensive or not readily available in our locality; hence, the need for improvisation, to manage the condition and improve outcomes. We report a case of TEN in a 2-year old female who presented with a 6-day history of fever and a rash on the trunk, for which mother applied topical calamine lotion, gave an oral herbal concoction for 3 days, with no improvement, after which she commenced amoxicillin + clavulanic acid. Twenty-four hours later, the rash progressed to involve the whole body. On presentation, she had extensive exfoliation of >70% of the body surface area, with multiple bullae, intraoral ulcers and excoriation of the eyelids and genitals. She was admitted into the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit, where she received intravenous hydration and antibiotics, micronutrients, nasogastric feeds and eye care. The skin was cleaned daily with 0.9% saline and dressed with petroleum jelly-impregnated gauze prepared at the Central Sterilising Services Department of the hospital. Skin ulcers resolved, and she was discharged after 6 weeks. In resource-poor settings such as ours, cheaper, sterile locally available materials could be used for dressing to improve outcomes.
BACKGROUND:Prostate cancer is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in men worldwide. There has been a stage migration among the population with PCa in developed countries since the introduction of the tumor marker, prostate-specific antigen. It has also been found that patients respond differently to androgen deprivation therapy. A large proportion of PCa arises from androgen-dependent secretory epithelial cells. OBJECTIVES:This study quantified prostatic androgen receptor (AR) expression in men with prostate cancer (PCa) and evaluated the possible association of the AR expression with various prognostic parameters in patients with PCa. MATERIALS AND METHODS:This study is a cross-sectional, observational and prospective hospital-based study of patients diagnosed with PCa. All the study participants had clinical evaluation, serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) and a prostate biopsy for histological confirmation and staging. The histologically proven adenocarcinoma specimens were subjected to immunohistochemistry for AR status. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (R) version 22. AR expression and its relationship to the clinical and histological stages were analysed using the paired t -test, Chi-squared test and Pearson's correlation as appropriate. Significance level ( P -value) was set at 0.05. RESULTS:Fifty men (aged 38-87 years) were enrolled in the study. Thirty-three (64.0%) patients had positive immunoreactivity with a median intensity of 30.00%. There were a significant association between the AR expression and the serum PSA and a weak positive correlation between AR intensity and PSA (both P- values were 0.025). There was also a significant correlation between the intensity of AR expression and the clinical stage ( P = 0.038); however, no correlation was observed between the AR expression and the Gleason score. CONCLUSION:The expression of ARs in men with PCa in our study was 66%, and this showed a correlation with PSA levels. A positive correlation was observed between the intensity of AR expression, PSA and clinical stage. Pre-treatment determination of prostatic AR expression exhibits potential for clinical application as a prognostic biomarker.
BACKGROUND:Hypovitaminosis D critically influences reproductive hormones in women of reproductive age. The luteinising hormone (LH)/follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) ratio predicts poor ovulatory response. OBJECTIVE:To evaluate the correlation between the LH/FSH ratio and hypovitaminosis D as a predictor of unexplained infertility in women. MATERIALS AND METHODS:The study was a cross-sectional study with retrospective data collection spanning 2 years, from January 2023 to December 2024, conducted in the Fertility and Gynecology of El Assrar Center of Oran (Algeria). Patients were segregated into the following groups (deficient group vs. insufficient group vs. sufficient group). RESULTS:During the study period, 200 patients were admitted. Hypovitaminosis D status was observed in 44.5%. The mean age was 32.24 ± 6.39 years (range: 18-47). In the deficient group, serum LH concentrations were markedly lower compared to the insufficient and sufficient groups (LH = 5.80 ± 3.31 UI/L vs. 8.83 ± 6.90 UI/L vs. 6.48 ± 4.00 UI/L, P = 0.018; respectively). In contrast, the LH/FSH ratio was statistically higher in the deficient group compared to the insufficient and sufficient groups (LH/FSH ratio = 1.67 ± 1.88 vs. 0.94 ± 0.59 vs. 1.02 ± 0.64, P = 0.018; respectively). In addition, the results revealed that the 4th quartile (odds ratios = 11.37 [4.13-22.00], P = 0.021) of LH/FSH ratio was statistically higher in patients with Vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency. The LH/FSH ratio was a significant predictor for unexplained infertility with a diagnostic accuracy of 0.724. CONCLUSIONS:Elevated LH/FSH ratio in women with hypovitaminosis D is significantly linked to unexplained infertility. Therefore, the LH/FSH ratio can serve as a reliable clinical marker for predicting successful pregnancy when evaluated alongside Vitamin D levels.
BACKGROUND:Periodontitis is a chronic multifactorial disease influenced by genetic susceptibility. Identifying genetic markers may facilitate early detection and improved risk assessment. AIM:To evaluate the association between tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) gene polymorphisms and periodontitis in a North Indian population. SUBJECTS AND METHODS:A total of 364 participants were recruited and divided into two groups: Group A (healthy; n = 182) and Group B (periodontitis; n = 182). Detailed case histories were recorded, and buccal swab samples were collected and stored at 4°C in a sterile medium. Genomic DNA was extracted and analysed using tetraprimer amplification refractory mutation system polymerase chain reaction and Sanger sequencing. Allele frequencies were calculated using Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium and Chi-square tests (GenAlEx software). Linkage disequilibrium and haplotype analyses were performed using SHEsis. Correlation analysis was conducted to assess the association between TNF-α polymorphisms and disease prevalence. RESULTS:A high frequency of TNF-α polymorphisms was observed in the North Indian population. Linkage analysis revealed that single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) loci -278A/C and -378C/T were significantly associated with both healthy and periodontitis groups compared to other SNPs. The -308G/A polymorphism was not detected in the study population. CONCLUSION:TNF-α gene polymorphisms are prevalent in the North Indian population. SNP loci -278A/C and -378C/T demonstrate significant association with periodontal status and may serve as potential genetic markers for susceptibility to periodontitis. Further studies are warranted to validate these findings in larger and diverse populations.
BACKGROUND:Ultrasound (USG)-guided supraclavicular blocks are an asset in the realm of regional anaesthesia. Newer approaches, such as USG plus peripheral nerve stimulator (PNS), have often been indicated for better outcomes. AIM:The aim of the study was to compare USG versus combined PNS plus USG-guided supraclavicular blocks of brachial plexus for upper limb surgeries. METHODS:A prospective, comparative study was conducted among 82 participants undergoing upper limb surgeries guided via USG (Group A; n = 41) and guided via USG plus PNS (Group B; n = 41) under supraclavicular brachial plexus block using 15 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine with 10 mL of 2% lignocaine plus adrenaline. Both the groups were assessed for procedure time, onset and duration of sensory and motor blockade and success rate. RESULTS:The procedure time for the block, onset of motor and sensory block was significantly less for USG-guided block ( P < 0.05). The duration of the block was comparable between the groups. In addition, USG plus PNS-guided blocks had a higher success rate. CONCLUSION:USG plus PNG-guided blocks experienced a higher success rate than USG-guided blocks. USG-guided supraclavicular blocks had shorter procedure time with faster onset of motor and sensory block, highlighting its potential advantages.
BACKGROUND:Colorectal cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. It is more prevalent in developed countries but is increasingly affecting developing nations in Asia and Africa. CD10 is a cell surface zinc-dependent matrix metalloproteinase which may play a crucial role in tumour progression, invasion and metastasis. AIMS:The present study was done to analyse the CD10 role and its expression in colorectal Cancer. MATERIALS AND METHODS:This cross-sectional study includes 58 cases, including colorectal adenomas (16) and carcinomas (58) over the period of 1½ years. The staining pattern and intensity of CD10 immunostaining were correlated with clinicopathological features of the cases. RESULTS:The maximum number of cases were over 50 years of age, and the most common site of tumour was the rectosigmoid region. Our study showed increasing expression of CD10 from adenomas to adenocarcinomas, suggesting its role in colorectal tumourigenesis. This study highlights a significant increase in CD10 expression in adenocarcinomas compared to adenomas, reinforcing its importance in malignant transformation. CONCLUSION:The study concludes that there is a significant association between CD10 expression and colorectal carcinogenesis. CD10 may play a role in colorectal tumour progression and could be a potential target for anti-cancer therapy, particularly in rectosigmoid cancers.
BACKGROUND:Malnutrition is widespread among children under five in densely populated areas like Lagos State, Nigeria's economic hub. OBJECTIVE:This study examines the prevalence and anthropometric patterns of malnutrition among children under the age of 5 yearsin Lagos, Nigeria. METHODS:The was a cross sectional study of 8157 children under the age of 5 years old, selected from households in all 20 local government areas of Lagos, Nigeria. The main outcomes were underweight, wasting, stunting, overweight and obesity. Data analysis was performed using SPSS and the World Health Organization Anthro Survey Analyser. RESULTS:The average age of the children was 19.6±16.81 months and male to female ratio was 1.1:1. Among the children, 23.2% (95% CI: 22.3%, 24.1%) were underweight, 15.9% (95% CI: 15.0%, 16.9%) showed varying degrees of wasting, 38.3% (95% CI: 37.2%, 39.5%) were stunted. The prevalence of wasting and stunting was higher among male children, with wasting at 16.8% in males versus 15.1% in females and severe stunting at 26.6% in males versus 22.3% in females. CONCLUSION:The burden of malnutrition in Lagos from this survey is generally high. It is essential to improve feeding practices, develop community based nutrition programmes and enforce state policies aligned with global targets.
