Years Of Age Group Research Articles

Antibiogram and Salmonella typhi detection in suspected patients using advanced PCR technique, serology, and conventional blood culture

Background & Objectives: Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi is a diverse gram-negative bacillus that causes life-threatening invasive bloodstream infection and remains a public health burden in developing countries. The antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella typhi has led to widespread multidrug resistance strains making complication in the treatment and demanding alternative therapies. Various diagnostics test such as blood culture, serological assay, and molecular assay are available. PCR is a newer gold standard method, but blood culture is still considered a definitive diagnosis of typhoid fever. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted. Venous blood was collected, and a widal test was performed to detect antibodies against O and H antigens in serum. Blood culture, isolation, and identification were performed using the standard techniques. The antibiogram of isolates was performed by the Kirby Bauer method. Amplification of the hilA gene through PCR was used for the molecular diagnosis. Results: Out of 141 suspected typhoid patients, 78 were males, and 63 were females. PCR detected maximum positivity rate (70%) followed by Widal test (43.26%) and blood culture (16.25%). PCR positive cases were highly prevalent in the male in less than 15 years of age group (14.8%), followed by 15-30 (12.7%) and 30-45 (9.1%). The isolated organism was found to be 100% sensitive to most antibiotics studied, except ofloxacin, which showed 71.4% sensitivity. In contrast, all the isolates were 100% resistant to nalidixic acid. None of the isolates showed multi-drug resistance. Conclusion: PCR is a sensitive, rapid, and better alternative than conventional methods that can be used in clinical diagnosis for early detection of the Salmonella typhi.

Comparison of Clinical Outcomes in the Slow-Developing Blastocysts With or Without Preimplantation Genetic Testing-Aneuploidy on Day 6 in the Frozen–Thawed Cycle

ObjectivesThis study investigated the potential of the slow-developing blastocysts using preimplantation genetic testing-aneuploidy (PGT-A) in patients undergoing frozen–thawed embryo transfer, stratified by age. MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed including a total of 743 cycles, the first frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle with single embryo transfer, who underwent treatment between January 2020 and July 2023 in a single fertility centre, Gangnam CHA Fertility Center. A total of 743 cycles, in which we performed intracellular sperm injection and freeze-all strategy, from 743 patients were included. The patient group was divided into 4 groups as follows: group 1 (G1), 208 FET on day 5; group 2 (G2), 177 FET with PGT-A on day 5; group 3 (G3), 220 FET on day 6; group 4 (G4), 138 FET with PGT-A on day 6. We also divided into 2 groups—under 35 years of age and over 35 years of age—and performed the analysis separately for each group. ResultsIn the under 35 years of age group, there were no significant differences in clinical pregnancy and miscarriage rates in G1 and G2 (67.2% vs. 63.8%, not statistically significantly different). Also, G4 had a higher clinical pregnancy rate than G3, but it was not significant (51.8% vs. 54.7%, not statistically significantly different). In the 35 years or older group, G2 had higher pregnancy rates than G1 and lower miscarriage rates (clinical pregnancy rate: 43.3% vs. 67.7%, P = 0.001, miscarriage rate: 22.5% vs. 3.4%, P = 0.001). In addition, G4 had a higher pregnancy rate than G3 and a lower miscarriage rate (clinical pregnancy rate: 31.8% vs. 46.9%, P = 0.003, miscarriage rate: 22.9% vs. 2.2%, P = 0.023). ConclusionsIn the under-35-year-old group, PGT-A on day 5 and day 6 showed a high pregnancy rate and a low miscarriage rate. Therefore, using PGT-A seems advantageous for patients of an advanced maternal age.

Assess the Serum Lipid Profile in Patient with Acute Ischemic Stroke at Tertiary Care Center in Nepal

Introduction: Ischemic stroke takes place when the blood flow cessation endures for more than a few minutes leading to brain tissue infarction. After ischemic heart disease, ischemic stroke is the second most common cause of death worldwide and one of the top five diseases based on DALYs (disability-adjusted life years) in Nepal. Though dyslipidemia is a major risk factor for coronary heart disease, it has an unclear role in the pathogenesis of ischemic stroke. In a patient with a previous ischemic stroke, statins reduce the risk of ischemic stroke. So, this study analyses the plasma prevalence of total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), High-density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglyceride (TG) in patients with acute non-cardioembolic ischemic stroke and their association with different non-modifiable risk factors (age, gender & family history) and modifiable risk factors (diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking & alcohol intake).  Materials and Method: This is a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional hospital-based study carried out from December 5th, 2021 to December 4th, 2022 including 80 patients admitted to Chitwan Medical College, Chitwan, with a diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke. All the patients underwent a detailed history, physical examination, and baseline investigations including fasting lipid profile along with CT- scan/MRI head. The fasting lipid profile was done within the first 24 hours of hospitalization. Data was entered in MS Excel 2013 and converted it into SPSS 26 for statistical analysis.  Result: A total of 80 patients with the diagnosis of acute ischemic stroke were enrolled. Out of them, 37 (46.25%) were female and 43 (53.75%) were male. A total number of 71 (88.75%) patients were from more than or equal to 55 years of age group and 9 (11.25%) patients were from less than 55 years of age group. The mean age ± standard deviation of male and female patients was 66.69 ±9.14 years and 68.54 ±14.96 respectively. Overall, derangement in serum lipid profile (dyslipidemia) was present in 63.75% of the patients. Among the total cases, high TC is found in 18 patients (22.5%), TG in 24 patients (30%), high LDL is found in 16 patients (20%), and low HDL is found in 23 patients (28.75%).  Conclusion: The study highlights hypertriglyceridemia as the leading dyslipidemia in ischemic stroke patients, showing gender and age variations in prevalence. It confirms dyslipidemia's role in brain vascular changes, notably in the Middle Cerebral Artery, and its link to carotid artery stenosis severity. Despite common risk factors, their direct association with dyslipidemia remains statistically insignificant, stressing the need for focused lipid management to mitigate stroke risks.

Epidemiological characteristics of human respiratory syncytial virus in Hubei Province from 2016 to 2023

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) in patients with acute respiratory infection (ARIs) in sentinel hospitals of the Hubei influenza surveillance network from 2016 to 2023. Methods: ARIs samples [including influenza-like cases (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI)] were collected from influenza surveillance sentinel hospitals in Hubei Province from 2016 to 2023, and case information was collected. HRSV virus nucleic acid typing was performed by fluorescence quantitative PCR method, and the data were collated, plotted and analyzed. Results: From 2016 to 2023, 12 779 cases of ILI and 9 166 cases of SARI were collected. The positive rate of HRSV was the highest in<5 years of age group [15.77% (168/1 065)], among which the positive rate was the highest in 2 to 5 years of age group of ILI cases [13.60% (31/228)], and the positive rate was the highest in 0 to 2 years of age group of SARI cases [25.97% (60/231)] (all P values<0.001). The positive rate of HRSV in SARI cases was 2.31%-25.97%, higher than that in ILI cases (0-13.60%) (P=0.016). HRSV was prevalent in autumn and winter from 2016 to 2020 and in spring in 2023. Alternating epidemics of HRSV virus type A and B in Hubei Province from 2016 to 2023 (dominant epidemics of type B in 2016 and 2020; dominant epidemics of type A in 2017-2019 and 2023). Conclusion: SARI and ILI patients under five years old are the main infection groups of HRSV. The seasonal prevalence characteristics of HRSV in Hubei Province from 2016 to 2023 shift from autumn and winter to spring.

Profile and Visual Outcome of Patients having Keratoconus Attending Tertiary Eye Hospital, Nepal

Background: Keratoconus is a bilateral, asymmetric, chronic, progressive ectasia of the cornea in which patients experience distorted vision that is usually treated with rigid contact lenses when spectacles no longer provide adequate vision. The aim of the study is to find out the clinical profile and visual outcome of the patient having Keratoconus. Materials and Methods: The hospital based cross sectional study was done at Biratnagar Eye Hospital, Biratnagar. All the diagnosed Keratoconus patients referred from cornea clinic to contact lens clinic for contact lens trial were included in this study between 1stJanuary 2017 to 31st December 2019. Diagnosis was done by using keratometry and pachymetry findings or by using corneal topography findings and slit lamp examination. Results: Total 133 patients were enrolled in the study among them the mean (±SD) age was 20.2 (±6.9) with a minimum of 9 and a maximum of 50 years of age. Most of them were male 89 (67%) and 78 (58.7%) patients were between 16 to 25 years of age group. Most of the eyes had moderate 161 (63.4%) type in which the amount of refractive was high 201 (79%) and RGP contact lens 245 (96.4%) was tried for vision correction. Normal vision (0.0 to 0.5 Log MAR) was found in 255 (96%) of eyes among them 194 (73%) of eyes got better than 0.2 log MAR visual acuity after the contact lens trial. Conclusion: Keratoconus was found mostly in younger male patients and gas permeable contact lenses were most commonly used treatment modality.

Study on Fixation Methods for Metacarpal Bone Fracture

Introduction with Objective: The aim of the present study was to assess the fixation methods for metacarpal bone fracture. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted from February 2019 to January 2020 among 29 metacarpal bone fracture patients attending at orthopedic surgery department, Chittagong Medical College Hospital, Chittagong after obtaining requisite consent from the patient. Data were collected through the assessment and X-ray report of patients in the orthopedic surgery Department. The collected data were entered into the computer and analyzed by using SPSS (version 20.1) to assess the fixation methods for metacarpal bone fracture. Results: Most of the study population (89.7%) was in 18-40 years of age group. The mean age of the patients was 33.14 ± 11.895 years (range: 18-70 years). Service was the mostly occurring occupation among the patients (35%) and worker were 31%. In our study transverse fracture was 51.7% and oblique fracture was 41.4%. In case of method of fixation, maximum (65.5%) patient’s fixations were done by mini plate, 31% were by K-wire and 3.4% were by both K-wire &amp; lag screw. In case of number of metacarpal bone involvement, 1 bone was involved in maximum (75.9%), 2 bone were involved in 17.2% and 3 bone were involved in 6.9% patients. Conclusion: Closed or minimally invasive fixation with K-wire, mini plates and screws are safe methods and can be performed with minimal complications. Maximum (65.5%) patient’s fixations were done by mini plate. Medicine Today 2024, Vol.36 (2): 87-89

Comparative Evaluation of Survival Rate Gingival Health and Patient's Acceptance of Conventional Band and Loop and Prefabricated Band and Loop in Primary Teeth: An In Vivo Study.

To compare and evaluate the survival rate, gingival health, and patient acceptance of traditional band and loop (B&L) and company-made B&L space maintainers in deciduous teeth-an in vivo study. A total of 50 patients between 4 and 9 years of age-group, having loss of deciduous first molar in any of the arches, were included in the present study, which was divided into two groups. Group I consisted of the conventional B&L group, and group II consisted of the prefabricated B&L group. The two groups showed no statistical significance in the 1st month, 3rd month, and 6th month in cement loss, failure of soldering, distortion of B&L fracture. The survival rate for the conventional group was 92%, whereas for prefabricated group was 100% at 6 months of follow-up. Company-made B&L showed significantly better gingival health (p = 0.004) at 6 months of follow-up and a better patient's acceptance rate. Prefabricated B&L appliances are newly developed space maintainers that are superior to conventional B&L appliances as they have a higher success rate and are more rational in design. Dutta S, Gupta S, Tripathi P, et al. Comparative Evaluation of Survival Rate Gingival Health and Patient's Acceptance of Conventional Band and Loop and Prefabricated Band and Loop in Primary Teeth: An In Vivo Study. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(S-1):S73-S77.

Demographic profile of head and neck cancer patients: a single tertiary institution-based study in Telangana

Background: Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a broad category of cancerous entity that arise from different types of tissues and organ sites located in the topographical areas of the head and neck (Hand N). H and N squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) comprises 30% of all cancer cases in India. The risk factors for HNSCC include tobacco and alcohol consumption. Methods: This study aimed to determine the demographics of HNC patients and classify the incidence of H&amp;N cancers according to the primary histological type and organ of origin along with any recent change in pattern compared with previous study. Results: Highest incidence seen in 41-50 years of age group with majority of cases belonging to urban area. Tobacco chewing was observed as most common habit. Buccal mucosa cancer was seen as most common cancer particularly at gingivo-buccal sulcus. Squamous cell carcinoma was the most common type identified on histopathology. Majority of the cancers presented in locally advanced stage. Conclusions: Male plurality of carcinoma noted indicating male being more likely to be engaged in behaviours increasing risk of carcinoma head and neck. Buccal muscosa carcinoma particularly at gingivo-buccal sulcus noted to be most common site correlating to tobacco chewing habit and keeping tobacco quid at gingivo-buccal sulcus leading to prolonged exposure.

Epidemiological and etiological factors of various fractures and its pharamacological treatment options in a tertiary care teaching hospital - a prospective cohort study

A fracture is a broken bone that can range from a thin crack to a complete break bone. A fracture can occur crosswise, length wise in several parts and in too many pieces. Causes of fracture include physical trauma, accidental fall, sports injuries, stress, and osteoporosis. Fractures can be treated with Medications and lifestyle changes. The objective of the study was to identify common types of fractures mostly affected by people, reduce the incidence rate of fractures and to provide patient counseling regarding precautionary measures to avoid accidents and assaults. In the study period, 120 fracture cases were collected, of this 64 (53.33%) are males and 56 (46.66%) are females. Higher incidence of fractures 27 (22.5%) occurred in 50-60 years of age group. Major fractures 48 (47.5%) were occurred due to trauma. 21 (17.5%) were diagnosed by X-rays, 15 (14.5%) patients are diagnosed by CT scan. 22 (18.33%) patients are categorized under femur bone fractures. 52(43.3%) patients were treated with NSAIDS, 33 (27.5%) patients were treated with antibiotics. 29.33% were treated with vitamins and mineral supplements. The study concludes that out of 120 study subjects, major fractures were occurred due to trauma. Clinical pharmacists and other health care professionals intervention to create awareness regarding fractures, medications, lifestyle modifications and other safety measures helps them to recover faster from fractures.

Demographic Profile and Outcome of Covid- 19 Obstetric Patients Undergoing Caesarean Section in a Tertiary Care Government Hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Background: Pregnancy itself is a hypercoagulable state. COVID-19 infection makes it more deleterious. As a consequence of exaggerated inflammatory response in COVID 19 infected mothers, there is alterations of coagulation system occurs, causing thrombi (micro and macro) in various organs reducing blood flow in capillaries , followed by emboli formation mainly in lung, heart, brain and kidney, resulting in multiple organ failure even death. The present study aims to observe retrospectively the clinical outcome of parturients with COVID-19 infection undergoing caesarean sections. Methods: This observational study was done in the COVID dedicated operation theatre of Department of Anaesthesia, Pain, Palliative and Intensive Care, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh, between May 2020 and December 2021. A total 640 obstetric patients undergoing caesarean section (both COVID positive and suspected) were observed. The demographic and outcome data of mothers ( transferred from post-operative ward to parent ward/ICU) were collected. Informations of ultimate fate (alive/death) of operated mothers were also noted. Demographic (sex) data and outcome data of newborn baby (alive/dead) were also included. The statistical analysis was carried out by using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22.0 for Windows. Results: In this study, the age of the most (n=532, 83.13%) of the pregnant mothers belongs to 18-30 years of age group, remaining 16.86% patients are within the age group of 31-45 years (n=108). Although 18.75% study subjects were illiterate below class VIII(31.25), SSC(17.97%), HSC(16.40%), Graduate(12.5%), masters(3.13%)], miscellaneous type of occupational status [home-maker(70%), service holder(19.85%), entrepreneurship(1.56%) &amp; others(8.59%. and came from different category of social class[ most of the patients belong to lower(54.68%) and lower middle class (27.81%) socioeconomic status]. Among total study sample (n=640), 55.63% (n=356) patients were infected with COVID 19 virus confirmed by RT-PCR and 44.38% (n-284) mothers were clinically COVID infected or suspected cases. The majority of the pregnant mothers (n=565. 88.28%) experienced sub-arachnoid block or spinal anaesthesia whereas only 6.09% (n=39) patients got experience of general anaesthesia. Apparently, 93.44% (n=598) of mothers come back to the parent ward after observing in post-operative ward. Of them, (n=640), 2.19% of mothers were not survived in operation theatre or post-operative ward and 4.34% (n=21)of patients had to go to Covid dedicated Intensive Care Unit. Survivors mothers (n=619, 96.72%) were greater than that of non-survivors (n=21, 3.28%). Among the delivered new born babies, the number of female babies (n=330, 51.56%) were slightly higher than that of male (n=310, 48.44%). In a total 640 babies, 560 babies (87.50%) were survived but 12.50% (n-=80 ) of babies were not survived. Conclusions: This observational study represents that among 640 number of COVID positive or suspected pregnant mothers who were undergoing caesarean section , 93.44% of mothers come back to the parent ward, 2.19% of mothers were expired in operation theatre or post operative ward because of complications. Unfortunanely, 4.34% of mothers had experience to go to Intensive Care Unit. Survivors mothers were greater than that of non-survivors. New born babies of confirmed and suspected COVID mothers were slightly female predominant. Total of them, 87.50% of babies were survived. J Dhaka Med Coll. 2022; 31(2) : 187-193

Demographics and ultrasonography findings of mastalgia in a tier 2 city of India

Background: Breast pain is the second most common breast symptom (after breast lump) for which women seeks medical attention. Breast pain can affect daily life, including sleeping, or physical, social, and work-school life. Mastalgia is one of the common causes for women in tier 2 city visiting health care facility but there are only few studies which focus on demographic findings and ultrasonographic findings in mastalgia. Aims and Objectives: The objective of this study was to study demographics of breast pain in a tier 2 city and ultrasound evaluation of mastalgia. Materials and Methods: In this prospective study, 143 patients presenting with mastalgia irrespective of focality, duration, or cyclical nature were included. In these patients, we studied demographic profile and ultrasonographic findings in mastalgia. Results: About 37% women were in 20–29 years of age group and least number was in 70–79 years of age group. About 86% of women in our study were in reproductive age group. Most patient with mastalgia have associated palpable lump (58%) followed by 43% patients with mastalgia and nipple discharge, only 27% of patients have mastalgia alone whereas 4% women have pain with skin changes. The majority (49%) of mastalgia cases fall under the breast imaging-reporting data system (BI-RADS)-I category while cases in BI-RADS-IV and V category were 2 and 1, respectively. Conclusion: Women in their reproductive age group and in their 3rd decade of life are more prone for mastalgia. Ultrasonography is also helpful in detecting cancers in setups where routine mammography is not possible.

Evaluating the impact of intubation pillow on laryngoscopy grade in children: A Randomized controlled trial

Abstract Background: Laryngoscopy and intubation remain critical in pediatric patients as compared to adult patients due to different anatomy. This study was conducted to compare the Cormack and Lehane grade (CL) of laryngoscopy, percentage of glottic opening (POGO) score, and the efficacy of backward upward rightward pressure (BURP) maneuver to improve laryngoscopy grade with or without the use of intubation pillow. Subjects and Methods: A randomized controlled trial was done from January 2020 to July 2020 on 68 children with 34 children in Group 1 (with intubation pillow) and 34 patients in Group 2 (without intubation pillow). Children between 5 and 12 years of age (the American Society of Anesthesiologists class I and II) planned for surgery under general anesthesia with endotracheal tube were included in this study. Pillow of 4 cm size was used in 5–9 years and 6 cm pillow in 9–12 years of age group. Macintosh laryngoscope was used for intubation. CL grading and POGO score were assessed. BURP maneuver was given in cases of difficult laryngoscopy of CL grade above 2 and its effect on improvement in CL grading was measured. Results: Group 1 children had significantly more CL grade I (83.3% vs. 16.7%); significantly lesser CL Grade IIb (23.1% vs. 76.9%, P = 0.001); and significantly more POGO score (97% vs. 86%, P &lt; 0.05) than Group 2. The use of BURP maneuver significantly improved the laryngoscopy view in both the groups. Conclusions: The use of intubation pillow in children between 5 and 12 years of age facilitated better laryngoscopy view and POGO score.

The Assessment of Geriatric Depression Among Primary Healthcare Physicians in Buraidah City, Saudi Arabia.

The global geriatric population is increasing, leading to a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases, including depression. This condition often remains underdiagnosed and untreated disease. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 130 primary healthcarephysicians (PCPs) in Buraidah to assess their practices in diagnosing geriatric depression from March 2023 to March 2024. After ethical committee approval, data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire, entered, cleaned, and analyzed with StatisticalPackage for the Social Sciences (IBMSPSSStatisticsforWindows,IBMCorp., Version 21.0, Armonk,NY). Informed consent was obtained and the confidentiality of the participant information was maintained.Statistical tests, including the Chi-square test, were used for inference. Out of 130 PCPs, 85.4% (n=111) were diagnosing depression during their clinical practice. The most common depression scale used in their regular practice was the patient health questionnaire (PHQ)-2(70%, n=91), followed by the Geriatric Depression Scale (53.8%, n=70). Nearly 26.2% (n=34) of physicians responded that there is no need for routine lab tests for the diagnosis of depression. Concerning the initial plan of depression management, nearly 76.2% (n=99) of physicians preferred non-pharmacological treatment. Regarding barriers to diagnosis of depression in elderly patients, nearly 76.2% (n=99) mentioned the need for more training about geriatric depression, followed by 70% for both short consultation time and the need for Ministry of Health guidelines. There was a statistically significant association observed between <35 years of age group and a preference for a high percentage of pharmacological therapy (P<0.05). Based on the findings of the study, there was a good number (85.4%) of PCPs diagnosing depression in their clinics, and also three-fourths of the physicians (76.2%) preferred non-pharmacological treatment. Only one-fourth (26.2%) of the PCPs mentioned no lab is required for the diagnosis of depression.

Cut-off value for anti-Müllerian hormone in the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome in the Japanese population.

To establish cut-off values for anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and antral follicle count (AFC) in the diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) applicable to the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology (JSOG) 2024 criteria and the Rotterdam/International Evidence-Based Guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS (IEBG) 2023 criteria based on a nationwide survey, respectively, taking into account age, assays, and structure of the diagnostic criteria. Data were collected for 986 PCOS cases and 965 control cases using a national survey in Japan and used to establish cut-off values for AMH and AFC. Serum AMH levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group compared to the control group. Serum AMH showed a significant negative correlation with age and significant positive correlation with AFC in both groups. In multiple regression analysis, serum AMH level was independently affected by AFC and total testosterone. AMH cut-off values suitable for the JSOG 2024 criteria and the Rotterdam/IEBG 2023 criteria were separately established for the 20-29 and 30-39 years of age groups, respectively, and for Access, Lumipulse and Elecsys/ECLusys, respectively. AFC cut-off values suitable for the JSOG 2024 criteria and Rotterdam/IEBG 2023 criteria were also established separately. AFC exhibited statistically greater variability than AMH. The serum AMH level is the biochemical representation of ovarian findings in PCOS and considered objective and highly reliable. Therefore, it could serve as a surrogate for AFC as a marker of polycystic ovarian morphology in diagnostic criteria.

In-vitro and In-silico Examinations on Baicalein-loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles for Neurodegeneration

Background:: In the current scenario, most of the population affected by neurogenera-tive disorders like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, etc., exist among the 10% population 65 years of age group. Neurodegenerative diseases are characterised as chronic and progressive disorders that occur due to the degeneration of neurons. Baicalein is a flavonoid glycoside derived from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis. Earlier research suggested that it could be used to treat neurodegenerative illnesses. Baicalein, which was selected for the current study, was designed in-to a solid lipid nanoparticle (SLN) formulation. The SLNs have low permeability across BBB and are delivered by the non-invasive route, i.e., through nasal delivery. The In-silico docking studies were performed to examine and compare the binding affinity of Baicalein to already established drugs on the two most viable targets of Alzheimer's disease, i.e., Beta- secretase and Acetylcho-linesterase. Objective:: The current work is to formulate and evaluate the Baicalein-loaded SLN for neuro-degenerative disorders via a non-invasive route. Methods:: Baicalein loaded SLN was developed by solvent emulsification diffusion method, and formulation is characterised by using different parameters such as particle size analysis, zeta po-tential, scanning electron microscope, transverse electron microscope, X-ray diffraction, Differen-tial scanning calorimetric, Fourier transforms -infrared radiations, drug entrapment, in-vitro drug release and in-silico docking studies. Results:: The particle size of Baicalein-loaded SLN was 755.2 ± 0.48 nm, the Polydispersity index was 0.06, and the zeta potential was -32.5 ± 0.36 mV. The drug entrapment and loading efficien-cy of the optimised formulation were found to be 94% ± 0.653 and 18.2% ± 0.553, respectively. Optimised formulation shows 84.6% ± 0.3% of drug release within 30 minutes, which demon-strates the sustained release of the drug. Conclusion:: Baicalein-loaded SLN is formulated and evaluated for the treatment of neurodegen-erative disorders. SLN is an approach to overcome the challenge of bypassing the BBB by admin-istering the drug via an intranasal route. Hence, when analysed together with the results of Bai-calein-loaded SLN and in-silico studies, it was correlated that Baicalein proved to have a targeted moiety for neurodegeneration.

Awareness of Preventive Measures in Osteoarthritis Among Urban Population in Pune City

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common articular disease of the developed country and cause of chronic disability, and may cause joint failure. Osteoarthritis of knee joint is common musculoskeletal problem nowdays in Indian population. OA is ranked among top 20 diseases in 40-45 years of age group. Purpose: Osteoarthritis is responsible for major burden of disease and is one of the leading causes of global disability. People delay accessing health care for Knee Osteoarthritis due to lack of knowledge. Therefore early diagnosis, signs and symptoms and awareness to delay/stall future disease process is essential for enhancing quality of life and function. Objective: Objective of this study was to assess the knowledge about preventive measures of OA. Setting: Different parts of Pune city. Method: The study is undertaken to assess knowledge about preventives measures of OA with the help of self-made questionnaire in urban population of Pune, approved by ethical committee. The study was commenced with a sample size of 200 among urban residents of Pune. The questionnaire was circulated via google form through mails and other social media platforms and data analysis was done. Participants: Age group 25-50 years were taken for the study. Population who were clinically pre diagnosed with osteoarthritis were excluded from the study. Outcome measure: The primary outcome measure of this study was to assess the knowledge about preventive measures of OA where they have good knowledge about OA. Results: Maximum population is aware about Osteoarthritis Conclusion: There is lack of awareness regarding, signs and symptoms like crepitus, deformity, tenderness, joint enlargement, and risk factors, including age, trauma, family history and also the importance of posture correction and environmental awareness. Most of the population are not aware of surgical and conventional treatment for osteoarthritis. Keywords: Osteoarthritis, prevention, bones and joints, awareness

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and dopamine D4 receptor (DRD4) polymorphisms in South Indian population

Objectives Four decades of research have found that Dopamine D4 Receptor (DRD4) is the major candidate gene however, few studies have supported the association between the DRD4 exon III long seven repeat allele and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). Two Indian studies had shown there is an association between DRD4 7 repeat allele; hence, we investigated in the south Indian population. AIMS: To study the association of DRD4-EXON-3-7R long allele and minor physical anomalies with ADHD in comparison to age &amp; sex-controlled normal subjects with no evidence of ADHD. settings and design-cross-sectional case-control study for two years at National Institute of Mental Health And NeuroSciences, Bangalore. Material and Methods 60 children with ADHD and 60 healthy children of 4-16 years of age group were recruited after informed consent. Assessed by DSMIV-TR, ADHD RS IV HOME VERSION 18 items, comorbidities by detailed interview of child and parents using Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children &amp; Adolescents (M.I.N.I). Kid for minor congenital anomalies modified waldrop scale &amp; for the perinatal complications, Lewis Murray Obstetrics Complication Scales were applied. For the family history family interview for genetic study, global functioning was measured by children global assessment scale, neuropsychological tests of response inhibition test were used and blood samples was collected for genotyping. Results The genotype 2 2,2 4 ,4 4,4 5,4 7 repeat allele has shown equal distribution between cases and controls with p-value 0.492 with no significance. Conclusion There is no association between DRD4 EXON-3-7R long allele gene polymorphism and ADHD in South Indian population. DRD4 7R could be having influence on minor physical anomalies in ADHD.

Therapeutic effectiveness and adverse drug reactions of mirabegron versus solifenacin in the treatment of overactive bladder syndrome.

Overactive bladder (OAB) syndrome is a chronic disease characterized by urinary urgency with or without urge incontinence, frequency, and nocturia and antimuscarinic drugs such as solifenacin have been the mainstay of treatment. Mirabegron a beta 3 adrenoreceptor agonist has recently gained importance in the management of OAB. The rationale of the study is that mirabegron improves the storage function without affecting voiding which increases the therapeutic effectiveness. The objective was to determine the therapeutic effectiveness of mirabegron versus solifenacin. A prospective observational study was conducted on 298 patients with OAB syndrome attending the urology outpatient department of government medical college after obtaining institutional review board clearance. Patients of both genders, belonging to the 18-65 years of age group, attending the urology outpatient department were selected for the study. Patients were evaluated using the OAB-validated 8-question awareness tool (OAB-V8 score) before and after receiving drugs by direct questionnaire method after receiving informed consent. Patients were prescribed either solifenacin 5 mg or mirabegron 25 mg once daily by the urologist. Follow-up was done after 4 and 12 weeks. Adverse drug reactions of the drugs were assessed using the Central Drug Standard Control Organization suspected adverse reaction (ADR) form, and ADRs were notified to the nearest ADR monitoring center. The mirabegron group showed maximum improvement in the mean OAB-V8 score values from baseline at 4 weeks (12.82 ± 5.86, P < 0.001) and 12 weeks (5.74 ± 3.31, P < 0.001) when compared to solifenacin. OAB-V8 scores of the solifenacin group also showed significant improvement from the baseline at 4 weeks (15.30 ± 5.54, P < 0.001) and 12 weeks (8.05 ± 4.59, P < 0.001). Heart rate, systolic, and diastolic blood pressures did not show significant changes during the follow-up in both the study groups. Thirteen patients developed ADRs such as dry mouth (four patients) and constipation (nine patients) in the solifenacin group. No ADRs were noted in the mirabegron group. Mirabegron showed maximum improvement in the OAB-V8 scores in patients with OAB syndrome, although the solifenacin group also showed improvement. Adverse effects were less in the mirabegron group when compared to the solifenacin group.

Association of Risk Factors with Female Pattern Hair Loss

Introduction: Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is one of the main causes of hair loss in adult women and has a major impact on individual’s quality of life. It evolves from the progressive miniaturization of follicles that lead to a subsequent decrease of the hair density, leading to a non-scarring diffuse alopecia. In spite of the high frequency of the disease and the relevance of its psychological impact, its pathogenesis is not yet fully understood, being influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Objective: To evaluate etiological factors associated with female pattern hair loss. Materials &amp; Methods: This was a hospital-based case control study, conducted in the Department of Dermatology &amp; Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) from March, 2021 to August, 2022. In this study, total 100 females aged 18 to 45 years were enrolled. Among them, 30 females had history of hair loss &gt;6 months, presented to outpatient department, BSMMU were included as case &amp; 70 healthy females who had no history of hair loss included as control according to inclusion &amp; exclusion criteria. Diagnosis of FPHL was made clinically &amp; Ludwig classifications were used to assess the degree of hair loss. Information on possible risk factors for FPHL was collected using a questionnaire interview. Result: The mean age of the patients with FPHL was 41.0±7.77 years with majority belongs to &gt;40 years of age group &amp; their mean duration of hair loss was 26.3±12.0 months. Among the patients of FPHL, 36.7% had history of inadequate intake of iron containing food, 66.7% had family history of alopecia, 36.7% had history of increased bleeding during their menstruation, 20.0% had multiple (&gt;3) childbirth &amp; 23.3% had hypertension. About 86.7% patients with FPHL had low serum ferritin (&lt;30ng/ml) with mean serum ferritin level was 20.25±16.07ng/ml and 66.7% patients of FPHL had low Hb (&lt;12 µg/l) with mean Hb was 11.47±1.52 µg/l. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis significant association found with FPHL were age (OR 2.013, 95% CI 0.672-3.714), family history of alopecia (OR1.231, 95% CI 0.162-1.991) and lower serum ferritin level (OR1.090, 95% CI 1.043-1.139). Conclusion: Age, family history of alopecia, lower serum ferritin may be implicated as risk factors for female pattern hair loss. Medicine Today 2023 Vol.36 (1): 7-11

Association Between Sociodemographic Status and Physical Functioning of Obese School Going Children- A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Obesity is major non-communicable disease (NCD) all over the world affecting both children &amp; adult. More than 30 million overweight children are living in developing countries &amp; 10 million in developed countries. Childhood obesity leads to a significant reduction in health-related functioning. So, the negative effects of childhood obesity on quality of life (QoL) have to be determined to combat the problem. Objective: To determine the association between sociodemographic status and physical functioning of obese school going children. Methods: This was a cross sectional type of descriptive study conducted at different schools of Rajshahi city from June 2015 to September 2015. Four (4) schools were selected- a) Govt. Laboratory High School, Rajshahi b) Rajshahi Collegiate School c) River view Collectorate School, Rajshahi and d) Rajshahi University School. The study population were 5 to 15 years old obese school children. A total number of 221 children were interviewed. Results: The ages of the respondents were between 4 to 15 years, and the mean age was 7.83±3.058 years. Among the 221 respondents more than half (56.6%) were in 4-7 years of age group, another 24.0% belonged to the age group of 8- 11 years and only 19.5% were 12- 15 years age group. Weight of the respondents was from 20 to 65 kg and mean weight of the respondents was (41.64±10.75). Here, 36.2% weight was from 37-47 kg and 29.0% weight was from 26-36 kg. Another 23.1%, 7.7% and 4.1% weight was from 48-58 kg, 59-69 kg and 15-25 kg respectively. There was no significant relationship with respondent age and sex with physical functioning (p ≥ 0.05). There was a significant relationship with weight and physical functioning (p≤0.05). Conclusions: The sociodemographic status may influence the physical functioning of the obese school going children. Their lifestyle must be modified in this early life otherwise they will be affected by different non communicable disease J Rang Med Col. March 2024; Vol. 9, No. 1: 71-76