University Of Karachi Research Articles

Evaluation of post-extraction healing after atraumatic extraction in gutka chewers and non-gutka chewers using the modified inflammation proliferation remodeling scale

BackgroundGutka, a smokeless tobacco mixture containing tobacco and areca nut, is widely consumed in South Asia and impairs wound healing due to vasoconstrictive and cytotoxic effects. Wound healing assessment in oral surgery lacks standardisation, and phase-specific evaluation tools are seldom used. This study aimed to compare post-extraction healing after atraumatic tooth extraction in gutka chewers and non-chewers using the modified Inflammation Proliferation Remodeling (IPR) scale to validate this scale for clinical use.MethodsA prospective cohort study at a dental college in Karachi, Pakistan, included 200 participants aged 18–45 undergoing atraumatic extraction of premolars or molars, divided into gutka chewers (n = 100) and non-chewers (n = 100). The modified IPR scale was developed and validated using content validity assessment by experts, pilot testing, inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s kappa), and internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha). Wound healing was assessed using the validated modified IPR scale immediately post-extraction (Day 0), at the proliferative phase (Day 7), and the remodelling phase (6 weeks). Statistical analyses included Mann-Whitney U tests, multivariate linear regression, and Spearman’s correlation.ResultsThe modified IPR scale demonstrated good content validity, substantial inter-rater reliability (Cohen’s kappa 0.80–0.86), and good internal consistency (Cronbach’s alpha 0.84). No significant difference in IPR scores was observed between groups during the inflammatory phase (Day 0). Gutka chewers had significantly higher IPR scores during the proliferative phase (mean 5.9 ± 1.6 versus 4.2 ± 1.2; p < 0.001) and the remodelling phase (mean 3.6 ± 1.2 vs. 2.1 ± 0.9; p < 0.001), indicating delayed healing. Gutka use was a significant predictor of delayed healing (B = 1.2, p < 0.001) after adjusting for age and gender. Duration of gutka use positively correlated with higher IPR scores during the proliferative (rho = 0.46, p < 0.001) and remodelling phases (rho = 0.51, p < 0.001), reflecting a dose-dependent effect. The questionnaire was effectively validated with an 80% response rate and a 90.9% completion rate.ConclusionsGutka chewing is significantly associated with delayed post-extraction wound healing, with longer duration correlating with poorer outcomes. The modified IPR scale was effectively validated and proved to be a reliable tool for assessing wound healing progression, demonstrating its utility in clinical practice and research settings. Dental professionals should consider gutka use when planning patient care, and public health initiatives should aim to eliminate gutka consumption to improve oral health outcomes.

Complementary interventions for cognitive rehabilitation in patients with cerebral palsy: a single-center study

Abstract Background Cerebral palsy (CP) is a neuromotor disorder that impairs a person’s ability to balance, stand, maintain posture, and walk. Research has indicated that Al Fatiha and negative air ion (NAI) are beneficial for ameliorating several behavioral, spiritual, physical, and societal issues. The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of Al Fatiha and NAI interventions on cognitive skills using Lumosity software. Methods This randomized control trial was conducted et al.-Umeed Rehabilitation Association, Karachi, Pakistan, between February and April 2021, following ethical approval (Ref: IBC-2017) from the University of Karachi. CP patients who volunteered for the study were randomly assigned to either the control group or to groups receiving interventions involving Al Fatiha and NAI exposure. Due to the limited number of consents obtained, participants were selected without consideration of age, cognition level, gender, mobility, motor type, and additional impairments. While all groups continued their regular therapies, the intervention groups underwent 31 structured sessions over a period of 6 weeks. Five Lumosity games were selected to assess the cognitive performance of all inducted participants in the three groups. Statistical analysis including paired t-tests, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and post hoc tests was conducted using SPSS version 28 to compare outcomes among the three groups. Results Paired t-tests showed that the Al Fatiha intervention significantly enhanced selective attention (1133.3 ± 584.8, p &lt; .05) and working memory (31,036.2 ± 4013.9, p &lt; .001), while the NAI intervention resulted in improvements in information processing (31,036.2 ± 4013.9, p &lt; .01), selective attention (1150.0 ± 705.3, p &lt; .01), spatial fluency (6830.7 ± 4720.0, p &lt; .01), and spatial reasoning (8719.3 ± 3499.5, p &lt; .01). Apart from intervention groups, only spatial reasoning was improved in the control group (9068.3 ± 3450.1, p &lt; 0.05). One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc analysis showed significant differences among the control and intervention groups at baseline in information processing, selective attention, and spatial fluency. These cognitive functions are likely attributable to increased neuronal activity in the prefrontal cortex and elevated serotonin levels. Conclusion Based on the findings, both interventions are proposed as advanced, complementary, non-pharmacological, and cost-effective cognitive rehabilitation therapies for patients with CP. We recommend further research to validate these findings through second and third-phase clinical trials.

Understanding childhood obesity in Pakistan: exploring the knowledge, attitudes, practices of mothers, and influential factors. A cross-sectional study.

Childhood obesity is a significant public health issue with far-reaching implications. The World Health Organization reported that in 2020, around 38 million children under five were overweight or obese globally, and in 2016, 340 million children and adolescents aged 5-19 were affected. In Pakistan, the situation is alarming; 66.9% of school-going children in Punjab were overweight, and 5.8% were obese in 2022. This study explores mothers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding childhood obesity in Pakistan and identifies factors contributing to this epidemic. Maternal perspectives are crucial as they significantly influence children's dietary habits, physical activity, and attitudes toward food and body image. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2023 to January 2024 at four medical centers: Fazaia Ruth Pfau Medical College Hospitals Karachi, Baqai Medical University Karachi, and Nishtar Medical University Multan. The study included 191 mothers with children aged 5 to 15 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire on sociodemographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceptions of childhood obesity. IBM-SPSS version 26.0 was used for data analysis, employing statistical tests like Kruskal-Wallis, Mann-Whitney U, Spearman, or Kendall Tau correlation to examine associations. Among the 191 mothers, 48.7% had education beyond intermediate, and 86.9% were housewives. The children's BMI distribution showed that 27.7% were obese and 21.5% overweight. Mothers had moderate knowledge (60.5%) about childhood obesity; 75.4% recognized its long-term health risks, and 62.8% associated it with diabetes. Attitudes were generally positive, with a 78.5% average score. Most mothers (73.8%) believed obesity could be controlled and had healthy practices (70.1% average score). However, 96.9% reported witnessing stigmatization of obese children, and 79.6% felt pressured by relatives about their child's weight. The findings indicate that while Pakistani mothers have moderate knowledge and positive attitudes toward childhood obesity, their practices are influenced by educational and socioeconomic factors. Addressing these disparities, enhancing public health initiatives, and mitigating stigmatization could improve childhood obesity management in Pakistan.

Self-diagnosis and self-medication based on internet search among Non-Medical University students of Karachi.

For a decade, the topic of self-diagnosis and self-medication has gained significant attention due to the widespread availability of information on the internet and over-the-counter medication. This research explores the rational considerations behind individuals' self-diagnosis and self-medication practices. Our main objective is to find out the frequency of self-diagnosis and self-medication in the general population and its associated risks and benefits. A cross-sectional community-based prospective study was conducted over 7 months and included 160 students from various nonmedical universities in Karachi. A questionnaire regarding baseline characteristics, self-medication, and self-diagnosis was made, and the data was collected from the participants and then analyzed using SPSS statistical software. One-fifth of the participants used the method of diagnosing themselves regularly, whereas 9% of the involved population demonstrated medicating themselves very often. However, most of the population had self-diagnosed (50.6) or self-medicated (61.9) sometimes. The internet was the primary source of searching (75%), and home remedies were the preferred medications (71.7%). The two primary reasons for this were the scarcity of time and resources. Overall, our study points out the significance of self-medication and self-diagnosis among different nonmedical students of Karachi. Teaching people about medicines, enforcing strong prescription policies, and providing medical facilities are vital steps toward preventing this problem. The role of doctors and medical students is significant; therefore, detailed doctor-patient communication needs to be encouraged.

FREQUENCY OF ALLERGIC BRONCHOPULMONARY ASPERGILLOSIS (ABPA) IN PATIENTS ADMITTED WITH ACUTE EXACERBATION OF ASTHMA IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN KARACHI: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY

Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis (ABPA) is a hypersensitivity reaction to Aspergillus species and often complicates the clinical course of asthma, leading to more severe exacerbations and poor disease control. Despite its clinical relevance, the prevalence of ABPA in asthma patients remains under-reported, especially in developing countries like Pakistan. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of ABPA among patients admitted with acute exacerbations of asthma at a tertiary care hospital in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: A prospective observational quantitative study was conducted at the Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Aga Khan Hospital University Karachi, Pakistan from January 2023 to December 2023 in Karachi. The study included 150 isolated patients of either gender, aged between 18 and 80 years, with a clinical diagnosis of asthma or those eligible for spirometry. Data collected included demographic details, past medical history, pulmonary function test results, and serological data for ABPA diagnosis. The presence of ABPA was confirmed by elevated serum total IgE concentration, specific IgE to Aspergillus fumigatus, and radiological findings. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, with p-values &lt; 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: The study revealed an overall prevalence of ABPA in 20% of the 150 patients with acute asthma exacerbations. Serum total IgE concentration was significantly higher in the ABPA group (450 IU/mL) compared to the non-ABPA group (p &lt; 0.05). Additionally, patients with ABPA had significantly lower FEV1 (60% predicted) compared to those without ABPA (p &lt; 0.05). Conclusion: The study highlights a notable prevalence of ABPA among asthma patients experiencing acute exacerbations. This underscores the importance of raising clinical awareness and implementing timely diagnostic strategies for ABPA in asthma management, which could significantly improve patient outcomes.

Multifaceted Exploration of Public Awareness, Government Perspectives, and Community Attitudes Toward HIV.

The purpose of this research is to quantify the knowledge of students about HIV, social media contribution, and their satisfaction with the government and society's acceptance of HIV patients. A cross-sectional survey of 579 participants was conducted at Punjab University, University of Peshawar, Karachi University, Baluchistan University of Information Technology, Engineering and Management Sciences University, and Quaid-i-Azam University. Student self-administered surveys included demographics, knowledge, government satisfaction, social media rumors, and PLWHA acceptability. The response rate was 96.5%. The four variables are knowledge, government satisfaction, social media rumors, and HIV patient acceptance. The knowledge score in married males (Beta=-0.075) and married females (Beta=-0.022), government satisfaction in married males (Beta=0.087) and females (-0.412), social media rumors in married males (Beta=-0.125) and married female (Beta=-0.301, and HIV acceptance in society married male -0.301 and married female 0.07. the knowledge and government satisfaction, score showed that males had higher knowledge about HIV than married females. Married women say HIV acceptability in society is strong, whereas men believe social media spreads less misinformation. Similarly, there is a negative correlation between government satisfaction social media rumors (-0.687**) and HIV acceptance in society (-0.687**). HIV acceptance has a strong correlation with knowledge (0.711**) and social media rumors (0.727**). The p<0.001 indicates that there is a significant correlation. Sufficient knowledge and the positive role of social media, effective government contributions to eradicate HIV, and more awareness and knowledge can significantly change the attitude of the community toward PLWHA.

Exploring medical students’ perceptions of telehealth in Pakistan: a cross-sectional study

IntroductionThis study aimed to investigate medical students’ perceptions of telehealth in Pakistan and assess the relationship between students’ proficiency in computers and technology, gender, and age.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on 330 medical students from various universities in Karachi, Pakistan. Data on demographic characteristics, computer proficiency, and perceptions of telehealth were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient were utilized for data analysis.ResultsThe study included 330 participants, predominantly from public universities (83.3%), with a mean age of 21.40 ± 4.24 years. Most participants were pursuing MBBS (67%). In terms of computer proficiency, 41.8% fell into the middle category. Gender correlated significantly with proficiency (p < 0.05), with females more often in the middle category and males in the not-that-amateur category. Age demonstrated a small positive correlation with proficiency (p < 0.05). A majority (77.6%) expressed a general interest in technology. Regarding healthcare apps, 51.8% had 1–3 apps, and 33.6% had none. Most participants believed telehealth would enhance healthcare (72.1%) and make it cheaper (63.3%). Additionally, 56.7% agreed that Pakistan should invest in telehealth, while only 2.7% disagreed.ConclusionThe study revealed that medical students in Pakistan exhibit an interest in technology and perceive telehealth as beneficial. These findings suggest that telehealth holds the potential to enhance healthcare opportunities in Pakistan. Therefore, investing in and expanding telehealth services may represent a viable solution for improving access to healthcare in the country.

Medical ethics education and awareness: Insights from a study among pakistani medical students and faculty members

This study investigated the knowledge and attitudes towards medical ethics among medical and dental students and faculty members at five medical universities in Karachi, Pakistan. Utilizing a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based design, the research included 438 participants. The study found that while a majority of participants were aware of the four basic principles of medical ethics, only 15.3% could correctly identify all of them. The primary mode of ethics education was through lectures and seminars, with less emphasis on interactive learning methods. The study also revealed a significant gap in faculty engagement and understanding of medical ethics. Although the majority of participants were aware of their institution's ethics committee, a significant proportion were unaware of its existence. The study highlights the need to enhance faculty engagement, address gaps in comprehensive understanding, adopt more interactive teaching methods, and increase the curricular emphasis on medical ethics in Pakistan.

STRATEGIES ADAPTED TO CURB DEPRESSION IN MEDICAL AND ENGINEERING STUDENTS AND THEIR EFFICACY: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Background: The most common and serious psychiatric illness that negatively affects a person’s thoughts, and behaviour is depression. This study discusses the strategies that can be adapted to curb the depression between medical and engineering students of different medical and engineering colleges in Karachi, Pakistan. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at different medical and engineering colleges of Karachi. Sample size of 362 was calculated using SPSS-22. A close ended, self-administered, modified form of standardized questionnaire was used which comprised of two parts. First part had questions for the assessment of depression and second part was comprised of strategies practiced by students. Hamilton Depression Scale (HAM-D) was used in scoring the depression level in the study subjects. Results: In engineering and medical colleges 82.87% and 56.9% students were found depressed repeatedly. The results were significant. Out of all the strategies stated by Medical and Engineering the most effective Strategy adopted by students was listening to music which shows overall, 93 (25.8%) students listen music most of the time, 68 (18.8%) students listen to music often, 78 (21.6%) students listen to music sometime, 66 (18.3%) listen to music rarely and 57 (15.5%) listen to music almost never as a strategy to curb the depression. Conclusion: Depression reducing intervention needs to be encouraged in professional program and mentors for the effectual addressing and solving the problems is required in all professional programs. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(3):62–6, DOI: https://doi.org/10.69656/pjp.v20i3.1747

METACOGNITIVE BELIEFS AS DETERMINANT OF IMPOSTOR PHENOMENON AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of current research is to explore the association between metacognitive skills and impostor phenomenon in University students. BACKGROUND: Dysfunctional metacognitions include in the etiological factor of mental health problems[1]. Metacognitions have importance to maintain and increases worry and anxiety[2]. Likewise, same approach plays important role in the development of impostor phenomenon which also involves anxiety and worries related to self-doubt, and leading an individual mental health difficulties and maladaptive coping mechanisms. STUDY DESIGN Quantitative Survey design PLACE AND DURATION OF STUDY Present study was conducted in Karachi, Pakistan from July- September, 2016. SAMPLE AND METHOD: The convenient sampling was employed to recruit the sample of 199 (85 males and 114 females) university students, age ranging from 18 to 25 years (Mean=20.52, SD=1.52) from different Universities of Karachi, Pakistan. MEASURES: To assess the variables Well’s Metacognitive Beliefs Questionnaire[3] and Clance Impostor Phenomenon Scale [4] were used. RESULTS: The findings indicated that metacognitive beliefs significantly predict impostor phenomenon (R2= .283, F=15.316, p&lt;.01) particularly “negative beliefs about uncontrollability and danger of worry” (t= 2.60, P &lt;0.05), “Cognitive Control” (t= 2.19, P &lt;0.05), and “need for control” (t= 1.99, P&lt; 0.05) significantly associated with impostor phenomenon. CONCLUSION: It is summarize that metacognitive skills play significant role in the development of fear related to success and impostor syndrome which can further lead to towards psychological distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms. Considering the findings implications and future directions have been suggested. KEYWORDS Metacognitive skills, impostor phenomenon, mental health problems.

Determinants Of English Language Anxiety With Respect To Educational Background Among Undergraduate University Students: A Comparative Study

A large group of English language students especially students belonging to all educational levels are anxious in language education progression. Several studies have deduced that anxiety can be an obstacle to success in second or foreign language learning. The purpose of this study was to compare language anxiety of different educational[1] background in Pakistani education system. The research undermines a quantitative research methodology follows a deductive approach. For this research, the target population was undergraduate students of different educational backgrounds of private University. The sampling technique for this research was Purposive Sampling. The sample size for this study was 349 whereas; the data was collected through primary sources. The collected data was then analyzed through Pearson Correlation tests, T tests. The reliability of the data was analyzed through Cronbach Alpha. Since this study was a comparative study, in this regard the research paper attempted to compare the test anxiety of students of Matric system with the Cambridge System. Essentially, there is a very slight difference in the levels of language anxiety between matric and Cambridge students of Private Universities of Karachi. Like previous conducted research this study also revealed that nonnative language especially in higher level i.e. in university level is the most anxiety exasperating second language skill.

Determining the Burden of Dysmenorrhea on Women's Quality of Life: The Dysmenorrhea Symptom Interference Scale

OBJECTIVE: Dysmenorrhea negatively impacts a woman's quality of life. The lack of proper awareness results in poor coping mechanisms in females. This study aims to determine the association of dysmenorrhea with quality of life using the Dysmenorrhea Symptom Interference (DSI) Scale and the management choices of females. STUDY DESIGN: This cross-sectional study was conducted among females studying at various universities in Karachi from March 2023 to May 2023. The calculated sample size was 270. A non-probability, convenience sampling technique was applied. A web-based, structured, self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. RESULTS: 278 females completed the survey. The Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score (1–10) indicated the degree of dysmenorrhea. The majority of the females, 40.6% (n=113), had moderate dysmenorrhea. Quality of life was measured according to the DSI Score (maximum score=5). The mean DSI score recorded was 2.75. Most participants (27%; n=75) were found in the mood component of DSI. Most of the females used lifestyle modifications, followed by home remedies and medications. A significant positive correlation between the NRS score and the DSI score (p&lt;0.001) suggests that an increased degree of dysmenorrhea led to a significant decline in the quality of life. CONCLUSION: We conclude that dysmenorrhea is associated with a decreased quality of life and the DSI Scale is a valid tool for assessing its impact on quality of life. There is a general lack of knowledge about adequate pain management.

Comprehensive analysis of root canal morphology in maxillary premolars among the Pakistani subpopulation: a CBCT-based study

BackgroundUnderstanding the root canal morphology is essential for the success of root canal treatment. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate and analyze the root canal configuration of maxillary premolars using Cone Beam Computed Tomography in the Pakistani subpopulation.MethodThis cross-sectional study utilized CBCT scans from two distinct centres: Aga Khan University in Karachi and Jinnah MRI and Body Scans in Lahore. The CBCT images were visualized using GALAXIS version 1.9 (SICAT GmbH and Co. KG, Bonn, Germany), integrated within the Sirona Dental System (D-64625 Bensheim, Germany). The scanning parameters were standardized at 85 kV, 7 mA, with a 15-s exposure time and a voxel size of 0.16 mm. A total of 707 CBCT scans were collected, encompassing 2180 maxillary premolars. Root canal configurations were classified based on (Ahmed et al. Int Endod J. 2017;50(8):761–70). Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26, employing the Chi-square test with a significance level set at p < 0.05.ResultsThe distribution of root canal morphologies varied significantly with age and gender. Among maxillary premolars, 50% exhibited the typical configuration of 2MPMB1 L1 (two roots, single canal in each buccal and lingual root), while 26% of maxillary right second premolars displayed 1MPM1 (one root, one canal). Overall, 1MPM1 accounted for 27.4% of the total cases in the second premolars. There was no statistically significant relationship between age and root canal distribution in either first premolars (p = 0.338) or second premolars (p = 0.833). Regarding gender, a significant difference was observed in the distribution of right maxillary 1st premolars (p = 0.022*), with a higher prevalence among females.ConclusionThis study offers significant insights into the anatomical variations of root canals in maxillary premolars across diverse regional subpopulations in Pakistan. While specific root canal configurations were prevalent, the findings indicate no statistically significant correlation between age and root canal morphology in maxillary premolars. However, a notable gender disparity was observed in the distribution of the right maxillary first premolars.

The effect of physical activity on stress levels of medical students: A cross-sectional analysis

Objectives To determine association between physical activity and hours of physical activity and stress levels in medical students Methods A cross sectional study was conducted at a private medical college in Karachi, during April and May 2015. Convenience sampling was used to identify the study participants. The subjects were medical students from year one through five. We interviewed 235 students. A pre-tested, self-administered three-part questionnaire was used to collect the data. The first part of the questionnaire inquired about the subjects’ demographics and exercise habits, the second part of the questionnaire was adapted from the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) to determine stress scores within participants, and the third part of the questionnaire asked about other stress relieving factors. Results According to the PSS, 30.3% of the participants were moderately stressed. The mean PSS was found to be 16.95 ± 5.72. 2A significant correlation was found between physical activity and stress levels; those involved in physical activity were 52 percent less likely to be moderately stressed (OR 0.48, p-value = 0.015) as compared to those who had not partaken in physical activity. Furthermore, studentswho performed physical activity for &gt;4 hours per week had a lower mean PSS score (16.2) when compared to those who exercised for &lt;2 hours per week. (18.2). Post-hoc statistical testing revealed the difference to be significant (p=0.028). Conclusion Based on the findings of our study, we conclude that physical activity of any form is associated with significantly decreased stress levels in medical students.

Comparative Efficacy of Amitriptyline and Chlorhexidine Gels in Managing Periodontitis: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant which also has anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity. But it has not been applied as a local delivery drug in patients with periodontitis. Objective: To compare the effectiveness of 1 % amitriptyline gel with conventional 1% chlorhexidine gel as a local drug delivery, adjunctive to scaling and root planning in patients with periodontitis. Materials and Methods: This randomized clinical control trial was done in Department of Pharmacology, University of Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan and HEJ research institute of Chemistry, University of Karachi, from 1st December 2022 to 31st July 2023. A total of 30 patients both male and female were equally divided into 3 groups. Control group: received only scaling and root planning (SRP). Study group 1: treated with SRP followed by the application of 1% chlorhexidine (CHX) gel. Study group 2: treated with SRP followed by the application of 1% amitriptyline gel. Clinical parameters including pocket depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), bleeding on probing (BOP), tooth mobility (TM), plaque index (PI), gingival index (GI), as well as biochemical parameters, tumor necrosis factor- alpha (TNF-á) levels, were evaluated using ELISA kit. Statistical analysis was done by One way ANOVA followed by Tuckey's HSD for comparisons among groups.Results: Reduction in PD, CAL, BOP, PI, GI and TNF-á was observed by both amitriptyline and CHX gel groups as compared to control group (p&lt;0.001) But reduction in PD (p&lt;0.001), CAL (p&lt;0.001) and TM (p&lt;0.05) was greater in amitriptyline group as compared to CHX group. Conclusion: Unconventional 1% amitriptyline gel is more effective in reducing the clinical and inflammatory biomarkers as compared to conventional 1% CHX gel in treating the periodontal disease via local drug delivery method (LDD).Keywords: Amitriptyline, Chlorhexidine, Local drug delivery, Periodontitis

The current status and challenges of bioethics education in undergraduate medical education in Karachi, Pakistan

BackgroundThe importance of including bioethics in the medical curricula has been recognized globally. Certain countries including Pakistan continue to lag behind although some developments have occurred recently.ObjectivesThe research aimed to provide a snapshot of bioethics education in undergraduate medical colleges in Karachi, Pakistan. The secondary objectives included identifying factors promoting or inhibiting integration of bioethics into the curriculum.MethodsA two-pronged strategy was used to collect data including a website review of medical colleges, in existence for more than ten years, recognized by the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC), the regulating body for undergraduate medical education in Pakistan. The other arm employed in-depth interviews with medical educationists in colleges fulfilling inclusion criteria. Data from the website was analyzed and presented as frequencies. Qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis method which involved coding of transcripts, multiple readings and arriving at subthemes and themes iteratively.ResultsThirteen medical colleges were included for the website review, of which four were from public sector. Three medical colleges used the word “ethics” in their vision and mission statement and four had provided a detailed curriculum for ethics on their website.Thematic framework included four broad themes: 1) Need for Bioethics Education, 2) Current Status of Bioethics Education 3) Challenges in integration of bioethics in medical curriculum and 4) Recommendations for integration of bioethics in the Curriculum. Participants were in agreement that bioethics was important in development of future physicians. Participants identified various challenges, foremost being shortage of trained faculty, lack of institutional buy-in and overcrowded curriculum.ConclusionThe study identified sporadic inclusion of bioethics in undergraduate medical curricula, left to the discretion of individual institutions. Since Karachi is a cosmopolitan city, the findings may reasonably reflect the situation in other parts of the country. While bioethics is recognized as an important field, it will continue to remain an orphan subject in the curricula unless the regulatory and accreditation bodies make it compulsory for institutions to include ethics in their curricula.

The Effects of Social Media Influencers' Self-Disclosure, Source Credibility, and Parasocial Relationships on Brand Trust and its Consequences

The availability of social media to most of the population has significantly increased in the present era. Social media users now have many options to access all kinds of information for their personal and job-related information. Many users seek opinions from social media influencers about goods and services because of their prosocial relationships. Past studies document that, besides other factors, an essential precursor of social media influencers is "intimate relationships between social media users and followers." Thus, the study has examined the effect of "self-disclosure on parasocial relationships and source credibility." It also examined the effect of "parasocial relationship and source credibility on brand trust." In addition, it examined the effect of "brand trust on commitment and brand loyalty." The study has collected a sample of 472 students from leading local universities in Karachi. It focused on them because the students are active users of social media. The study documents that self-disclosure positively affects parasocial relationships and source credibility. Parasocial relationships and source credibility promote brand trust. In addition, brand trust is a significant precursor of commitment and brand loyalty. These findings are crucial for understanding the dynamics of social media influencers and their impact on brand trust and loyalty. It also provides valuable insights for marketers and researchers in the domain of social media influencers.

Perception of Faculty Members about Improving the Quality of Learning for Students with Disabilities at Higher Education Institutions

The study examined teacher knowledge, awareness, and perceptions of students with disabilities in higher education. At the University of Karachi, 264 faculty members from the science, social sciences, education, and management departments participated in a mixed-methods study. The findings suggested that faculty members lacked disability understanding, leading to stress and limited decision-making competence. They also lack confidence in teaching students with disabilities. The study suggests expanding enrollment, establishing supervisory authority, providing barrier-free infrastructure, adjusting teaching methodologies, community awareness initiatives, and promoting equity policies. Further research should explore Universal Design for Learning, assistive technology, individualized teaching approaches, attitudes, policy views, ICT influence, and student academic achievement.

Interplay of Language and Identity in Education: Prospection for Urdu and English Language and Second Language Teaching and Learning

Educational contexts are the primary sites for the promulgation of linguistic ideologies and for determining the linguistic market for a language. English language in Pakistan is considered vital for mundane, official, and academic activities hence its learning gains currency in the polity. Conversely, the learning outputs are unsatisfactory which necessitates understanding how English language learners perceive themselves concerning the languages they are taught in the educational context. This study explains the language identity for Urdu (L1) and English (L2) of Pakistani undergraduate English as second language (ESL) learners for institutionally recognized and prescribed languages in the national curriculum to explicate the interplay of language and identity of learners in educational settings. Learners’ demographic profiles (previous education, schooling system, language proficiency, and family’s socio-economic status) were also inquired to understand relationship variation across demographic traits. A validated survey questionnaire was administered to a sample (N=316) comprising male and female students from 28 different programmes at a large public university in Karachi. Descriptive analysis and one-way ANOVA were carried out using the IBM SPSS 22 version. The findings attest to learners’ hybrid identity revealing attachment neither with L1 nor to L2. Learners acknowledged the privileged status of the English language in polity and preferred British English compared to the indigenous variety of Pakistani English [PakE] echoing the language ideologies permeated through the Educational context. They also endorsed English language speaking skills for gaining higher recompenses in society however deluded themselves in code[1]switching instead of practicing speaking skills. Besides, no significant difference was found in the language identity of ESL learners across demographic traits. The study has strong implications for devising language policies for education and adopting pedagogical approaches calling to accentuate language identity as a catalyst in the teaching-learning process and not considering linguistic diversity a barrier in the multilingual context.

Exploring the Knowledge and Attitude of Medical and Allied Health Sciences Students towards Monkey Pox Virus

Background: Human Monkey Pox (HMPX) is a zoonotic disease caused by the pathogenic agent Monkeypox Virus (MPXV) and remains a global health burden. After Africa, its outbreak has been reported in America, Europe, and a few other regions of Africa. While quite a few cases were also reported in Pakistan. Although it is a self-limiting disease, it remains a potential threat to the human population, with an increasing morbidity rate and case fatality rate. Methods: In a cross-sectional study conducted from September to December 2022, the aim was to assess the knowledge and attitudes of medical and allied health students regarding Mpox. Three hundred students from various medical and allied health departments at Hamdard University of Karachi participated in the study using convenience sampling. They were given an electronic questionnaire to gather their responses. Results: The findings showed that participants had an average knowledge of (Χ2=1.080, p&gt;0.05). Many participants showed positive attitudes towards disease (Χ2=67.22, p&lt;0.001). Based on gender, the knowledge of male participants was better (Χ2=17.32, p &lt; 0.01), whereas attitude was positive in both genders (Χ2=24.87, p&lt;0.01). MBBS and Pharm D students demonstrated average knowledge (Χ2=81.058, p &lt; 0.01) while DPT students showed positive attitudes toward Mpox. Conclusion: Knowledge regarding emerging pandemics needs to be improved in students of health professions. Thus, a more focused learning attitude is crucial to developing a futuristic professional attitude. Keywords: Healthcare, Knowledge, Monkeypox, Pandemic.