Comparative Cross-sectional Study Research Articles

Comparison Of Outcome Between Conventional And Video Laryngoscope In Predicted Difficult Intubation

Background: Endotracheal intubation is the mainstay of airway management in general anaesthesia. Failure to intubate the trachea, often known as difficult intubation, is always a possibility. To overcome difficult intubation, different methods of instrumental support were developed. Some authors. Methods: From March 2018 to September 2019, a comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at BSMMU, Dhaka in the department of anesthesia, analgesia, and intensive care medicine. A total of 60 patients with predicted difficult intubation who were scheduled for elective surgery under general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation were selected for the study. Prediction of difficult intubation was assessed by modified Mallampati class III and IV or thyromental height. Results: Time taken from visualization of glottis for insertion of ETT was 12.8±2.3 sec in conventional laryngoscope which was significantly lower in video laryngoscope (15.0±3.6) (p =0.006). Time taken to visualize the glottis was 13.2±1.7 sec in conventional laryngoscope and 13.2±4.0 sec in video laryngoscope (p>0.05). Total time for tracheal intubation was 49.0±6.4 sec in conventional laryngoscope and 53.2±9.9 sec in video laryngoscope (p>0.05). Intubation with first attempt by video laryngoscope was (30/30; 100%) as compared with conventional laryngoscope (27/30; 90%) (p>0.05). Conclusion: It is evident from the study that intubation with video laryngoscope in comparison to conventional laryngoscope might provide better outcome in terms of ease of intubation and number of attempts during intubation for patients undergoing elective surgery under general anaesthesia. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (1) June 2023, pp 7-13

Health inequality of rural-to-urban migrant workers in eastern China and its decomposition: a comparative cross-sectional study.

As a specific group with high health inequality, it is crucial to improve the health status and health inequalities of rural-to-urban migrant workers. This study aimed to evaluate the health inequality of migrant and urban workers in China and decompose it. A cross-sectional study was carried out, using a standardized questionnaire to obtain basic information, self-rated health to evaluate health status, concentration index to measure health inequalities, and WDW decomposition to analyze the causes of health inequalities. The concentration index of health for migrants was 0.021 and 0.009 for urban workers. The main factors contributing to health inequality among rural-to-urban migrant workers included income, exercise, and age. In contrast, the main factors of health inequality among urban workers included income, the number of chronic diseases, social support, and education. There were health inequalities in both rural-to-urban migrant and urban workers. The government and relevant authorities should formulate timely policies and take targeted measures to reduce income disparities among workers, thereby improving health inequality.

Laparoscopic Versus Open Mesh Repair of Inguinal Hernia for Military Personnel

Background: An organ or fatty tissue, like the colon, might abnormally emerge through the wall of the cavity in which it normally dwells, a condition known as a hernia. Inguinal hernia repair is among the most frequently done procedures by surgeons worldwide. Treatment includes pure tissue repairs to prosthetic repairs under open or laparoscopic approach. Though so many options are available but none is superior to others. Aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of laparoscopic hernia repair with open mesh hernia repair. Methods: The study was a comparative cross-sectional study. The study, which took place between 2016 and 2018, involved 100 cases in the General Surgery department of Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Savar (30 cases of laparoscopic hernioplasty and 70 cases of open hernioplasty). Purposive sampling technique was used to collect data. Data were collected during follow up of patients by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analysed by using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0. Informed written consent were obtained from the patients and ethical issues were duly addressed. Results: There were 100 patients in the study, 30 of whom were assigned to group A (the laparoscopic group) and 70 to group B (the open group). In group A, the mean operating time was 103.67±23.57 minutes, while in group B, it was 50.26±2.57 minutes. In group A, there was a decrease in pain scores, with 90% of patients reporting 1-2 (mild discomfort). Three people are in excruciating pain. Conclusion: Inguinal hernia repair is a frequently performed general surgery treatment. Because of the large socio-economic impact of inguinal hernia repair, it is the responsibility of the surgeon to consider the most advantageous approach in each given situation. For all patients needing elective hernioplasty, laparoscopic, non-randomized, pre-peritoneal mesh repair for inguinal hernias is a safe, effective method that has clear advantages over open mesh repair. Bangladesh Armed Forces Med J Vol 56 No (2) December 2023, pp 17-23

Nutritional status of primary school children and their caregiver's knowledge on malnutrition in rural and urban communities of Ekiti State, Southwest Nigeria.

Nutritional imbalance is an underlying cause of 2.6million death annually and a third of child's death globally. This study assessed and compared the nutritional status of primary school children and their caregiver's knowledge on malnutrition in rural and urban communities of Ekiti State. This is a cross-sectional comparative study carried out among 983 urban and rural primary school children in Ekiti State (495 in urban and 488 in rural) using interviewer-administered semi-structured questionnaire. A multi-stage sampling technique was used and data collected was analyzed using SPSS 23 with level of statistical significance set at p < 0.05. Underweight and stunting were relatively higher in rural (6.5% and 22.7% respectively) than in urban (6.3% and 19.4% respectively) and these differences are not statistically significant (p = 0.898, p = 0.197). However, wasting, overweight and obesity were higher in urban (12.7%, 6.1% and 7.7% respectively) than rural (11.5%, 3.7% and 7.5% respectively) but the difference is not statistically significant. (p = 0.242). Majority of the caregivers in both settings had good knowledge of malnutrition though higher in urban mothers (89.5%) with statistical significance than their rural counterparts (71.5%). However, there is no significant association between caregiver's knowledge and malnutrition in this study. Being in lower primary school class, relationship with caregiver, educational status of caregiver and occupation of caregiver were the common predictors of malnutrition among the school children in both community settings. Generally, the prevalence of malnutrition was high in both urban and rural primary school children in this study. However, while underweight and stunting were more prevalent among the children in the rural communities, wasting, overweight and obesity were more prevalent in the urban. The caregivers in both communities had good knowledge of malnutrition (better in the urban) but this is not good enough to bring a significant relationship with the occurrence of malnutrition in the children. Common predictors of malnutrition in both community settings are being in lower primary school class, relationship with caregiver, educational status of caregiver and occupation of caregiver. It is therefore recommended that regular continuous public enlightenment, nutritional education programmes and other programmes targeted at improving the economic power of the caregivers are measures that will improve the nutritional status of the primary school children.

Perioperative Outcomes after Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in High Risk Patients

Background: The global population is aging, leading to an increased incidence of acute cholecystitis and associated complications in the elderly. While laparoscopic cholecystectomy is the gold standard for treating acute cholecystitis, its safety and outcomes in high-risk, elderly patients with comorbidities are not well-documented. Objective: To compare postoperative complications, hospital stay duration, and nursing care requirements between high-risk elderly patients undergoing tube cholecystostomy versus early elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis. Methods: This cross-sectional comparative study was conducted at Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi from July 2021 to January 2022. A total of 70 patients aged 40-80 years and classified as ASA 3 or 4 were included. Patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 (n=35) underwent tube cholecystostomy followed by interval cholecystectomy after six weeks; Group 2 (n=35) underwent early elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy within 72 hours of admission. Data on hospital stay, postoperative complications, and nursing care were collected and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Quantitative data were presented as mean ± standard deviation (SD), and qualitative data as frequency and percentage. Independent t-tests were applied, with a p-value of less than 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: In Group 1, 91% of patients had a hospital stay of less than 5 days compared to 11% in Group 2 (p=0.000). Group 1 had 94% of patients nursed in the ward/HDU, while 94% of Group 2 required ICU care (p=0.000). Postoperative complications were significantly lower in Group 1, with 97% having no complications compared to 34% in Group 2 (p=0.000). Only 3% of Group 1 required multidisciplinary team management versus 66% in Group 2. Conclusion: Tube cholecystostomy is a safer and more effective initial management strategy for high-risk elderly patients with acute cholecystitis, leading to shorter hospital stays, less intensive postoperative care, and fewer complications compared to early elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Outcomes of Septal Surgery with Nasal Packing Versus Quilting Sutures

Background: Septoplasty is a common surgical procedure used to correct a deviated nasal septum, which can cause nasal obstruction and impact respiratory function. Postoperative management traditionally includes nasal packing to prevent complications such as bleeding and hematoma, although it can be associated with discomfort and other complications. Quilting sutures have been proposed as an alternative technique to reduce these issues. Objective: To compare the postoperative outcomes of nasal packing versus quilting sutures in patients undergoing septoplasty. Methods: This prospective comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the ENT unit of Combined Military Hospital Rawalpindi, Pakistan, after obtaining ethical approval. The sample size comprised 384 patients, with 192 in the nasal packing group and 192 in the quilting sutures group. Inclusion criteria included patients aged 18 to 70 years undergoing elective nasal septoplasty. Exclusion criteria were patients with nasal polyps, allergic rhinitis, diabetes, coagulation disorders, septal flap tears, those unfit for surgery, and those undergoing combined septoplasty and turbinate intervention. Patients were randomly assigned to either nasal packing or quilting sutures groups. Baseline characteristics, including age, gender, and BMI, were documented. Postoperative assessments were conducted at 48 hours, 1 week, and 3 months, evaluating pain using a visual analogue scale (VAS), bleeding, epiphora, dyspnea, hematoma, and adhesions. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0, with quantitative data represented as mean ± standard deviation and qualitative data as percentages and frequencies. Statistical significance was determined using chi-square and unpaired two-tailed Student’s t-tests, with p &lt; 0.05 considered significant. Results: The mean age of participants was 34.37 ± 6.95 years. Gender distribution included 256 males (66.7%) and 128 females (33.3%). At 48 hours postoperatively, the nasal packing group had a higher mean pain score (5.96 ± 1.39) compared to the quilting sutures group (2.03 ± 1.05) (p &lt; 0.001). Bleeding was more significant in the quilting sutures group (1.82 ± 0.60) than in the nasal packing group (1.27 ± 0.45) (p &lt; 0.001). Epiphora and dyspnea were more common in the nasal packing group, with 48 patients (25%) and 81 patients (42.2%), respectively, compared to 8 patients (4.2%) and 6 patients (3.1%) in the quilting sutures group (p &lt; 0.001). Hematoma occurrence was low and not significantly different between the groups. After 1 week, pain scores remained higher in the nasal packing group (1.45 ± 1.12) compared to the quilting sutures group (0.58 ± 0.79) (p &lt; 0.001). At 3 months, pain scores were still higher in the nasal packing group (1.45 ± 1.12) compared to the quilting sutures group (0.58 ± 0.80) (p &lt; 0.001), with no significant difference in adhesion formation. Conclusion: Quilting sutures resulted in lower postoperative pain and fewer complications compared to nasal packing in patients undergoing septoplasty, despite a slightly higher risk of bleeding. These findings suggest that quilting sutures may be a preferable alternative to nasal packing for postoperative management in septoplasty.

Assessment of the selected hematological profiles among malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infected patients, Northwest Ethiopia.

Malaria and schistosomiasis are infectious diseases that cause hematological profiles abnormalities. Malaria and Schistosoma mansoni co-infection causes exacerbation of health consequences and co-morbidities. The aim of this study was to assess the selected hematological profiles among malaria and S. mansoni co-infected patients at Dembiya Selected Health Institutions. An institutional-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from March 30 to August 10, 2022. A total of 140 individuals were enrolled in the study using a convenient sampling technique. Wet mount and Kato Katz technique were conducted to detect S. mansoni in Stool sample. Blood films were prepared for the detection of plasmodium. The data was coded and entered into EpiData version 3.1 before being analyzed with SPSS version 25. A P-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Mean of WBC, neutrophil, lymphocyte, eosinophil, RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit [4.IU/L,2.2IU/L, 1.4IU/L, 0.1IU/L, 3.13IU/L, 9.5g/dL, and 28.7%, resepectively] in co-infected were significantly lower than [7.5IU/L, 4.6IU/L, 2.1IU/L, 0.38IU/L, 4.8IU/L, 14.6g/dL, and 43.7%, resepectively] in the healthy control participants. Mean of RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit [3.13IU/L, 9.5g/dL, 28.7%, resepectively] in co-infected were significantly lower compared to [3.8IU/L, 11.5g/dL, 33.9%, resepectively] in the malaria monoinfected participants and [3.7IU/L,11.5g/dL, 33.6%, resepectively] in the S. mansoni monoinfected participants. The result of hematological profiles in healthy participants had no significant difference compared to light,moderate and heavy S. mansoni infection intensity in coinfection. The number of S. mansoni eggs per gram of stool had been negatively correlated with hematological profiles of co-infected participants except lymphocyte and monocyte which correlated positively. Hematological profiles status in coinfection were significantly altered compared to malaria monoinfection, S. mansoni monoinfection, and healthy participants.Therefore, hematological tests should be used to monitor and manage coinfection related complications, and to reduce coinfection associated morbidity and mortality.

An Assessment of School Health Services in Private and Public Primary Schools in Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria

Background: The School Health Service is to help children at school to achieve the maximum health possible for them to obtain full benefit from their education. This study aimed to examine the differ-ence in the knowledge and practice of school health services between public and private primary schools in Ado Ekiti.Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study of public and private primary schools. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit 425 teachers in 80 public and private schools into the study. A semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire and observational checklist were used for data collection. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. Descriptive statistics such as per-centages, the sample mean, and frequency tables were done. Inferential statistics were used to test for associations between categorical variables and statistical significance set at p-value &lt; 0.05.Results: The mean age of the teachers in public schools was 42.0 ± 7.5 years, compared to 30.46 ± 7.2 years for teachers in private schools. Married teachers in public and private schools were 202 (92.7%) and 125 (60.4%) respectively. In the public schools, 64 (29.4%) teachers had more than 15 years’ experience and 11 (5.3%) in private schools. More than half of the teachers in both public and private schools had good knowledge of school health services, 118 (59.0%) and 89 (55.3%) respec-tively with p value of 0.477. Only 4 (10%) of the public schools investigated had good practice of school health service while it was 23 (57.5%) in private schools, this was statistically significant with p value of 0.001.Conclusions: There was no significant difference between the knowledge of school health services among teachers of public and private schools. School health services were better practiced in private schools when compared to public schools. Advocacy for strategies that promote a more comprehensive practice of school health services is especially recommended in public schools.

Physio-Anatomical complications in short and long surgical procedures with General Anesthesia. A comparative cross-sectional study

Background: The complication intensity of short- and long-term anesthesia during different surgeries depends upon the age, medical history and general lifestyle of a patient. Aims and objectives: The aims and objectives of present study were to evaluate the risks associated with general anesthesia during various surgical procedures. Methodology: Current comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in ICU, general surgery and gynecology units of Ghurki Trust and Teaching Hospital from July 2023 to February 2024. Total 100 patients of appendectomy and hysterectomy were selected as study subjects and divided into two groups. In Group-A (short surgery group) 65patients with appendectomy and in Group-B (Long surgery group) 35 women patients with hysterectomy were included. All of the clinical and demographic data were recorded on MS Excel and SPSS version 2024 were used to process, analyze, and distribute the data as needed and graph pad prism was used to plot graphical data representation. Results: The study identified a significant association between anesthesia duration and increased postoperative complications, notably in patients aged 51-55 years. Enhanced risks included postoperative pain, nausea, and respiratory distress, emphasizing the need for tailored anesthesia strategies based on surgical length and patient demographics. Conclusion: General anesthesia is largely safe but linked to some complications, necessitating innovative improvements and further research with larger sample sizes for enhanced safety.

Refractive error accuracy and user perceptions of a smartphone home-based tester

Background: Uncorrected refractive error accounts for nearly half of the global burden of vision impairment. The EyeQue personal vision tracker (EPVT) was created as a convenient smartphone refractometer to be used at home and order spectacles online thereafter. However, its accuracy in diagnosing refractive error has not been fully established.Aim: This study aimed to determine the accuracy of the EPVT in measurement of refractive error and determine user perception on device use.Setting: University of KwaZulu-Natal optometry clinic, Westville campus.Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study using a double-blind design. Objective, non-cycloplegic refraction testing results using the EPVT were compared with gold standard ophthalmic subjective refraction (SR). Both eyes were considered for the analysis with comparisons being made between EPVT and gold subjective standard refraction for each eye. User perception was evaluated by means of a structured questionnaire.Results: The mean spherical equivalent refractive error was –0.18 ± 0.70 dioptre (D) and –1.12 ± 2.79 D for the gold standard ophthalmic SR and EPVT, respectively, with significant differences in visual acuities yielded by the two methods (p = 0.000). Participants preferred gold standard refraction testing over the EPVT.Conclusion: The EPVT was not accurate in measuring refractive error; therefore, the resultant prescription from EPVT alone should not be used to order spectacles. However, this digital tool presents promise as an autorefractor for screening refractive error rather than as a diagnostic device.Contribution: This study offered valuable insights into the prospective utility of home-based, self-administered smartphone refractive error testers as a tool for screening of refractive error. The study also provided cautions to the EPVTs limitations related to accuracy and limited ocular health assessment, which have broader implications for visual health and quality.

A Qualitative Analysis of the Association of Treatment Outcomes, Psychosocial Factors, and Multimorbidity in Severe Hypertensive Patients Attending Health Institutions in Southeast Nigeria

Severe hypertension is associated with a two-fold increase in relative risk of death. Interventions to date fail to achieve sustained improvement in blood pressure, particularly in regional areas of high social disparity. Growing evidence points to multiple psychological, social and morbidity factors as contributors to the onset of and trajectory of hypertension. This study aims to examine the association of psychosocial factors and multimorbidity with response to treatment and treatment outcomes in the management of severe hypertensive patients providing updated knowledge and recommendations to improve their quality of care. We employed a hospital based comparative cross-sectional study using a quantitative and qualitative approach. Semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect information from 733 severe hypertensive patients attending cardiology clinics in two tertiary health institutions in southeastern Nigeria. Data collected was transcribed, coded, and analysed with IBM SPSS version 23 software with appropriate descriptive tools used in presenting findings. We observed a significant association between age of the respondents and their response to treatment. Overweight/obese respondents were 1.5times less likely to respond to treatment. These findings add to existing knowledge provoking thoughtful discussions among relevant public health actors and stakeholders to update management policies for severe hypertension.

Infant and young child feeding practice among mothers-child pair in irrigated and non-irrigated areas of Dangila district, Northwest Ethiopia, 2020: a community based comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe issue of Infant and Young Child Feeding practices was widespread; it was estimated that infants were not exclusively breastfed in the first six months of life. Complementary foods were frequently provided too soon or too late, and they were often nutritionally deficient. Even, there are nutrition-sensitive activities like irrigation schemes, evidence on infant and young child feeding practices between irrigated and non-irrigated areas is scarce or limited.ObjectiveTo assess the prevalence of infant and young child feeding practices among 0–23 months of age children in irrigated and non-irrigated areas of Dangila District, North-west Ethiopia, 2020.MethodsA community based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from Dec 1, 2020, to Jun 1, 2020. A stratified sampling technique was implemented to select 823 mothers with children age 0–23 months from irrigated (411) and non-irrigated (412) kebeles. Data were collected using structured questionnaires. Multivariable logistic regression was used to identify the associated factors of infant and young child feeding practice. Adjusted odds ratios with a 95% CI were used to determine the degree of association between the independent and outcome variables. A p-value < 0.05 was used as a cutoff point to declare statistically significant variables with the outcome variable.ResultsAmong 823 households visited, 802 respondents with a response rate of 97.8% in irrigated and 96.11% in non-irrigated areas gave complete responses. The overall prevalence of good IYCF practice was 62.5% (95% CI: 34.2, 41.3), and it shows a significant difference between irrigated (72.2%) and non-irrigated areas (52.8%). Moreover, the study identified that education primary and above (AOR = 1.889, 95% CI: 1.38, 2.648) knowledge above mean (AOR = 2.347, 95% CI: 1.555, 3.542), positive attitude (AOR = 1.716, 95% CI: 1.139, 2.587), PNC follow-up (AOR = 1.606, 95% CI: 1.154, 2.360), women’s decision-making power (AOR = 1.840, 95% CI: 1.226, 2.763), and multiple delivery (AOR = 0.352, 95% CI: 0.213, 0.583) were significant factors for IYCF among 0–23 month-old children.Conclusion and recommendationsThe infant and young child feeding practice among 0–23 month-old children was better in an irrigated area than in a non-irrigated area. Promoting irrigation practices, empowering women, and strengthening postnatal care are recommended interventions to increase infant, young, and child feeding practices in the study area.

Musculoskeletal aspects of respiratory function in cystic fibrosis: a cross-sectional comparative study

ABSTRACT Background Respiration is an intricate interaction between visceral and musculoskeletal structures. In cystic fibrosis (CF), the airways and lungs are subject to progressive obstruction and destruction. However, knowledge about the musculoskeletal aspects of respiratory function and symptoms is still limited in this patient group. Methods In a cross-sectional comparative study, 21 adults with CF enrolled at the Gothenburg CF Centre were matched with 42 healthy controls. The two groups were examined and compared in terms of thoracic mobility, respiratory muscle strength, lung function, and musculoskeletal pain in accordance with a predefined protocol. Results Significant differences were observed between the groups in the number of tender points, thoracic excursion, forced vital capacity (FVC), and forced expiratory volume (FEV). The CF group also demonstrated a tendency toward reduced function in other measurements, although these were not statistically significant. Conclusion This cross-sectional study revealed that people with CF have reduced thoracic mobility and an increased prevalence of muscular tender points, alongside decreased lung function, compared to healthy controls. These findings stress the need for greater emphasis on the often-overlooked musculoskeletal aspects of CF care, especially as people with CF are living longer and may require more musculoskeletal health support.

Identification of Musculoskeletal Health Status, Pain Acceptance, and Coping Strategies in Individuals with Chronic Pain and Physical Disabilities: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to determine the musculoskeletal health status, pain acceptance, and coping strategies of individuals with chronic pain and physical disabilities and compare them with control group. Material and Methods: This cross-sectional study included a total of 88 participants, divided into two groups: the study group (individuals with chronic pain and physical disabilities; n=44) and the control group (individuals with chronic pain but without disabilities; n=44). Participants' musculoskeletal health was assessed using the Musculoskeletal Health Questionnaire (MHQ), pain acceptance using the Chronic Pain Acceptance Questionnaire (CPAQ), and coping strategies were evaluated using the COPE inventory. Results: Significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of MHQ scores and COPE scores (p0.05). Discussion: This results emphasizes the need for a careful assessment of coping strategies in individuals with chronic pain and physical disabilities in interdisciplinary chronic pain management programs, as well as the inclusion of personalized coping strategies in the intervention program.

Quality-of-Life Assessment in Children with Mild to Moderate Bronchial Asthma.

Background and Objectives: Assess the quality of life of children aged 2-10 with mild to moderate bronchial asthma. To evaluate the general health condition of children with mild and moderate severity bronchial asthma. To determine health changes in children with mild- and moderate-severity bronchial asthma as they grow older. To evaluate the impact of mild- and moderate-severity bronchial asthma on children's daily and social activities, physical health, emotional state, and general well-being. Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted in March-June 2020. Parents or guardians of 2-10-year-old children without bronchial asthma and children with mild to moderate bronchial asthma were interviewed after receiving their written informed consent. The questionnaire was based on the standardized quality-of-life quiz SF-36. A total of 248 questionnaires were collected-106 from the parents or guardians of children with bronchial asthma and 142 from parents/guardians of children without bronchial asthma. For further analysis, 106 children without bronchial asthma and with no chronic conditions were selected. Quantitative variables were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test and qualitative data using the chi-square (χ2) criteria. Quantitative data were described by giving means, medians, and standard deviations (SD); qualitative features by giving relative frequencies. Statistical data were analyzed using SPSS and Excel 2020. Results: Children with mild and moderate asthma exhibit poorer health compared to their healthy counterparts. Only 20.7% of respondents with asthma reported excellent or very good health, contrasting with 64.1% of healthy children (p < 0.001). As children with asthma age, their general condition improves, with 46.2% showing improvement in the past year, while 42.5% of healthy children had a stable condition (p < 0.05). In various activities, children with asthma face more constraints than healthy children (p < 0.05), including energetic activities (sick-59.5%; healthy-10.3%), moderate activities (sick-24.5%; healthy-4.7%), climbing stairs (sick-22.7%; healthy-3.8%), and walking over 100 m (sick-9.4%; healthy-0%). Children with asthma are more likely to experience exhaustion, anxiety, tiredness, lack of energy, and restraint in public activities (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Parents/caregivers of children with mild to moderate bronchial asthma rate their health worse than those of healthy children do. As children with mild to moderate bronchial asthma grow, the disease impact on their overall well-being decreases. Children with mild to moderate bronchial asthma, compared to healthy children, experience more limitations in vigorous or moderate activities; face more difficulties climbing stairs or walking more than 100 m; frequently feel exhaustion, anxiety, fatigue, or lack of energy; and encounter restrictions in social activities.

Prognostic and predictive implications of Sokal scoring system in newly diagnosed Chronic Myeloid Leukemia patients

Objective: To assess the predictive utility of the Sokal scoring system for determining disease prognosis in newly diagnosed patients with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Methodology: This comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology, Rawalpindi, Pakistan, from September 2021 to September 2022. The study included all newly diagnosed Philadelphia-positive chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) patients. Patients with CML in the accelerated and blast phases, as well as those with atypical CML, were excluded. Gender was considered as a qualitative variable of interest, while platelet count, spleen size, age, and percentage of myeloblasts in the peripheral blood were the quantitative variables of interest. These variables were documented using preformed data sheets, and the prognostic class of each patient was recorded. Follow-up assessments were conducted after 3 months for patients who received the same tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) therapy to avoid bias. Results: A total of 62 patients were included in the study, with a mean age of 46±5 years. According to the Sokal scoring system, 20 (32%) of 62 patients were classified as low-risk, 34 (54.8%) as intermediate-risk, and 8 (12.9%) as high-risk. Conclusion: The routine implication of traditional prognostic scoring systems, such as the Sokal score, is beneficial for stratifying CML patients into different risk groups due to its cost-effectiveness. Regression in Sokal score grades was observed after 3 months of TKI therapy.

Evaluating the sociodemographic, anthropometric and lifestyle parameters, depression, quality of life, cognitive status, physical activity, and Mediterranean diet adherence of older adults in pre- and post-Covid-19 periods: a comparative cross-sectional study

Ojective: Covid-19 pandemic has exerted deleterious effects on several aspect of mental health worldwide. The detrimental medical complications, the increased prevalence of morbidity and the rapid international spread of Covid-19 have resulted in urgent public health concerns and political measures across the world. This comparative, cross-sectional study aims to assess the changes that were established in sociodemographic, anthropometric and lifestyle parameters and several aspects of mental health of older adults due to Covid-19 pandemic by comparing the pre-Covid period with the post-Covid period. Methods: Qualified questionnaires were applied for assessing the prevalence of depression, quality of life, cognitive status, and Mediterranean Diet (MD) adherence, as well as sociodemographic, anthropometric and lifestyle parameters in 3388 older adults in the pre- and post-Covid period. Results: Covid-19 pandemic independently affected type of residence, smoking habits, BMI and WHR status, risk of depression, quality of life, cognitive status, physical activity levels, and MD adherence. Conclusions: Covid −19 pandemic has exerted persistent detrimental effects on daily quality of life and mental health of older adults in the post-Covid period. Future strategies and public policies should develop healthcare programs to provide psychological and nutritional counseling and support to older adults to minimize the detrimental effects of Covid pandemic.

Comparison of Pentraxin-3 in Migraine Patients without Aura and Healthy Controls

Background and Objectives: Migraine is a common cerebrovascular condition marked by one-sided, pulsating headache, which may or may not be accompanied with an aura. Migraine is mostly found in females who are of childbearing age. One of the speculated mechanisms for the pathophysiology of migraine is endothelial dysfunction. A new biomarker of inflammatory disorders, pentraxin-3 is often produced by endothelium injury. In earlier investigations, it was shown that migraine sufferers had elevated levels of pentraxin-3. Our study's objectives were to analyze the serum pentraxin-3 levels in migraine sufferers without aura and healthy controls.Methods: It was a cross-sectional comparative study. This was done at the IMBB Department, University of Lahore, Lahore Pakistan, from March 2020 to April 2022. We took 40 diagnosed migraine cases and 40 healthy controls. Detailed examination was done and proformas were filled by both cases and controls. Serum was collected by each of them and pentraxin-3 values were determined by using specific Elisa kits. SPSS version 22 was used for statistical analysis. For normality of data Shapiro wilk test was used. Mann whiteny U test was used for the comparision of means of pentraxin-3 in migrainers and healthy controls.Results: The data were non-normally distributed after the Shapiro-Wilk Test. The average age of the controls was 25±6.06 years, while that of individuals with migraines was 26±7.78 years. Patients with migraine were mostly women. The majority of the patients had BMI category 18 to 24.5. Patients with migraine had mean pentraxin-3 levels of 145.75 ±157.7 pg/l, compared to 43.65 ±33.01 pg/l in the control group. Median was100.5 in cases and 31.15 in controls. P-value was 0.0001.Conclusion: When compared to the control group, migraine patients had considerably higher blood levels of PTX-3, and no correlations between age, BMI, marital status, smoking history, and usage of preventative medications were found.Key words: migraine, pentraxin-3, endothelial dysfunction, C-reactive protein (CRP),

Vertebral Endplate Defects Induced Mechanical Alterations and Disc Calcification.

Cross sectional comparative study. The current study aims to explore the calcification potential (BMP2 expression) of intervertebral discs and its association with the presence of vertebral endplate defects visible on MRI. Forty-seven herniated lumbar disc samples obtained from patients aged 20-76 (31M/16F) undergoing surgery. Five-µm thin sections were stained with H&E in order to assign a histological degeneration score (HDS) from 0-15 on the basis of cell density (0-5), structural alterations (0-4), granular changes (0-3) and mucus degeneration (0-3). Sections were immuno-stained with anti BMP-2 antibodies to observe the calcification potential in these discs. In addition, pre-operativeT2-T1 W MRI images of the lumbar spine were analyzed for the presence and type (typical or atypical) of vertebral endplate defects, grade of disc degeneration (Pfirrmann grade I-V), presence of high intensity zones (HIZ), and Modic changes at the operated level. Vertebral endplate defects, Modic changes & HIZ were observed in 81%, 29% and 21% of patients respectively. Mean HDS & BMP-2 expression was 9 ± 2 and mean 71 ± 36spots/mm2 respectively. Discs with adjacent vertebral endplate defects showed increased cell density (P = .004), mucus degeneration (P = .002), HDS (P = .01) and BMP-2 expression (P = .01). Discs with HIZ also had increased HDS, but significance was seen with increased BMP2 expression (P = .006). HDS showed a positive correlation with BMP 2 expression (r = .30, P = .04). These findings suggest that the altered mechanical environment of discs is strongly associated with BMP-2 expression which is an important marker of intervertebral disc calcification.

Time management practice and associated factors among health professionals working in public and private hospitals in Dessie City, Northeast Ethiopia: a comparative cross-sectional study.

Time management is a widely ignored concern in all types of organizations, including the healthcare system, despite its crucial role in the achievement of personal and organizational goals. Therefore, determining the practice of time management and its associated factors among health professionals is of paramount importance. We aimed to assess time management practice and associated factors among health professionals working in public and private hospitals in Dessie City, Northeast Ethiopia. A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted from 24 March to 24 April 24 2021 among 660 health professionals (220 from private hospitals and 440 from public hospitals), who were randomly selected using a stratified sampling technique. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. A multivariable binary logistic regression model was run separately for public and private hospitals. A p-value of < 0.05 and a 95% confidence interval were reported to be statistically significant. A total of 615 participants responded to the survey, which resulted in a response rate of 93.2%. The magnitude of good time management practice among health professionals in both public and private hospitals was reported to be 57.1% (95% CI: 53.5-60.8%). However, the magnitude differed between public [50.1% (95% CI:45.5-54.7%)] and private hospitals [70.9% (95% CI: 63.5-76.7%)]. Living with families (AOR: 5.39, 95% CI: 1.84-15.77), satisfaction with compensation and benefits (AOR: 7.83, 95% CI: 1.97-31.16), satisfaction with work autonomy (AOR: 7.10, 95% CI: 1.94-25.95), and having a good plan (AOR: 3.42, 95% CI: 1.15-10.13) were statistically significant predictors of time management practice in private hospitals. Satisfaction with an organizational policy and strategy (AOR: 2.34, 95% CI: 1.25-4.36), performance appraisal (AOR: 1.95, 95% CI: 1.13-3.36), work autonomy (AOR: 1.92, 95% CI: 1.12-3.27), and the good approach of employees toward time (AOR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.26-3.58) were statistically significant predictors of time management practice in public hospitals. The magnitude of a good time management practice in public and private hospitals in the study area was low. The practice was observed to be higher in private hospitals than in public hospitals. The study revealed that the magnitude and associated factors of time management practice vary between hospitals, indicating the need for targeted intervention.