Asian Pacific Journal of Health Sciences
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Clinical Efficacy of Parnabeejadi Rectal Suppository in the Management of Parikartika (Acute Fissure-In-Ano) – Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial
Get PDFAcute fissure-in-ano is a distressing and common anorectal condition characterized by painful defecation and rectal bleeding. Although several treatment modalities are available in conventional surgery, the search for an effective and safe remedy remains ongoing. This study aims to assess the efficacy of Parnabeejadi rectal suppository as compared to diclofenac rectal suppository in managing acute fissure-in-ano. It was an open-label randomized controlled clinical trial. A total of 30 patients were enrolled in each group, patients of Group A received Parnabeejadi rectal suppository whereas patients of Group B were treated with diclofenac rectal suppository per anum, twice a day for a period of 2 weeks. The parameters for assessment were pain in the anal region, measured using a Visual Analog Scale, burning sensation, and bleeding P/R. Both groups showed a highly significant reduction in pain and burning sensation after 2 weeks of treatment, whereas the Parnabeejadi group had a better effect on bleeding P/R compared to the diclofenac group (P < 0.05)
The Neuroprotective Effect of Sesame Seed Oil on Cuprizone-Induced Cerebellar Damage in Male Wistar Rats
Get PDFCuprizone (CZ) is a copper chelator often used in laboratory research to induce demyelination in animal models. It helps to study the processes involved in demyelination and remyelination, which are relevant to multiple sclerosis research and other demyelinating diseases. This study explored the effects of Sesame seed oil (SSO) on oxidative, histomorphological and behavioral changes in CZ-damaged cerebellum. Twenty-four adult male Wistar rats were purchased and acclimatized for a week. They were, however, grouped into four and administered the following, respectively; Group A received standard rat feed (control), Group B received 2 g of CZ per 1 kg of rat/day, Group C received 5 mL SSO per 1 kg of rat/day, and Group D received 2 g of CZ per 1 kg of rat/day + 5 mL SSO per 1 kg of rat/day. This was done consecutively for 3 weeks with the use of oral cannula. The animals were assessed for exploratory and locomotor activities while the cerebellum was processed for histology, assayed for catalase chloramphenicol acetyltransferase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities with immunohistochemical using ionized calcium-binding adaptor molecule 1 (IBA1). CZ treatment caused weight reduction, disruption of Purkinje cell layer, cellular degeneration, and reduction in CAT and SOD activities with IBA staining. However, these changes were ameliorated when co-administered with SSO. The results suggested that SSO contains potent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics that can help to alleviate the harmful effects of CZ in various regions of the body
Influence of Age on Orofacial Functions and the Perception of Sleep Disorders Associated with Obese Individuals
Get PDFBackground: This comparative observational study investigated the impact of age on orofacial functions and the perception of sleep disorders in obese individuals. Methods: 48 obese individuals aged 7–40 years, divided into three groups: Group I (7–11 years, n = 16), Group II (12–20 years, n = 16), and Group III (21–40 years, n = 16). All participants had full dentition, except Group I, which had mixed dentition, and none had temporomandibular dysfunction. Masseter and temporalis muscles were evaluated using a wireless electromyograph, while lip, tongue, and cheek pressures were measured with the Iowa oral pressure instrument. Molar bite force was assessed using a dynamometer, muscle thickness with portable ultrasound, and occlusal force contacts between hemiarches with digital occlusal analysis. Participants’ perceptions of snoring, apnea, and bruxism were evaluated through a questionnaire. Statistical analyses included analysis of variance, Bonferroni correction, and Chi-square test (P < 0.05). Results: Significant differences in normalized electromyographic activity of the masseter and temporalis muscles were noted across groups, with Group I showing higher muscle activation during mandibular tasks and lower bite force. Group I also exhibited slightly lower muscle thickness and significantly higher lip pressure compared to other groups. No significant differences were found in occlusal contacts between hemiarches among the groups. Conclusion: Associations were found between groups and sleep disturbances: snoring (moderate), apnea (very weak), and bruxism (weak). In obese individuals, age shapes orofacial functions and sleep disorder perception, with variations in masseter and temporal muscle function, lip pressure, and snoring perception
Psychological Distress among Bone Marrow Transplant Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study from a Tertiary Care Medical College Hospital
Get PDFBackground: Bone marrow transplant (BMT) nurses have an innate exposure to psychological distress because they are frequently challenged with ethical issues and deaths while providing critical care. Although they are more prone to psychological distress, there is paucity of data addressing it. This study addresses this research gap by evaluating bone marrow transplant nurses’ psychological distress. Method: A descriptive, cross sectional study was conducted using a questionnaire survey to examine whether bone marrow transplant nurses self reported psychological distress was associated with their work and it was measured using DASS21 scale to assess depression, anxiety, and stress. The sample was drawn from a population of nurses (n=28) who worked in Pediatric and Adult BMT units of a tertiary Hospital. Results: The statistical sample of the study consisted of 28 nurses. The response rate was 100%. The majority of nurses were males (60.71%). The mean age was 32.4 years and the mean years of experience was 8.14 years. Spearman&#39;s rank correlation coefficient (ρ\rho) is 1. The rankings for Depression, Anxiety, and Stress are identical across the categories, which suggests that the staff&#39;s level of Depression, Anxiety, and Stress are perfectly aligned. Conclusion: Psychological distress is a common issue among bone marrow transplant nurses, stemming from the emotional and physical challenges of caring for critically ill patients. This distress can lead to significant consequences for both nurses and patients, including burnout, decreased quality of care, and high turnover rates
Moving Beyond Disrespect and Abuse: A Mixed Method Study to Explore the Prevalence and Experiences of Postnatal Mothers on Disrespect and Abuse during Childbirth in Selected Urban Slums of Udaipur City (Rajasthan)
Get PDFObstetric violence, encompassing disrespect and abuse during childbirth, poses a significant barrier to equitable healthcare and maternal mortality reduction. Understanding postnatal mothers’ experiences is essential for promoting respectful maternity care (RMC). This mixed-methods study explored the prevalence and experiences of disrespect and abuse during childbirth among 16 postnatal mothers in urban slums of Udaipur, Rajasthan, using an explanatory sequential design. Quantitative data revealed that physical abuse (43.75%), poor communication with healthcare providers (35.42%), and lack of dignified care (34.09%) were prevalent issues. Verbal abuse (12.5%) and stigma/discrimination (16.67%) were less common but significant. Sociodemographic factors, particularly maternal age and age of the last child, influenced these experiences. Qualitative findings highlighted systemic gaps, including neglect, unconsented procedures, overcrowding, lack of privacy, and discrimination based on caste, hygiene, and socioeconomic status. The study underscores the urgent need for healthcare system strengthening, staff training, and policy reforms to promote equitable and RMC. By integrating quantitative patterns with qualitative narratives, this mixed-methods approach provides actionable insights for addressing complex healthcare challenges. Strengthening RMC practices is critical for reducing maternal trauma and achieving better maternal health outcomes
Ayurvedic Management of Avabahuka (Frozen Shoulder) – A Systemic Review
Get PDFAvabahuka, commonly known as frozen shoulder or adhesive capsulitis, is a musculoskeletal disorder, which is primarily attributed to the vitiation of Vata Dosha, leading to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The prevalence rate of frozen shoulder is 2–5% in the general population, with a higher incidence in over the age of 40 years. Our Acharya’s described the various treatment approaches in Samhitas, which pacify Vata Dosha and alleviate symptoms of Avabahuka. This review article summarizes research on Avabahuka (frozen shoulder) management through Ayurvedic interventions. A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases, including PubMed, Ayush Research Portal, J-Gate, and Shodhganga, for relevant articles published between January 2000 and December 2024. The search focused on studies evaluating the efficacy of Ayurvedic management for Avabahuka. Included studies comprised randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs, before-and-after studies, and single-group clinical studies assessing various Ayurvedic modalities. Despite many studies remaining unpublished (gray literature), evidence-based medicine is crucial for optimal patient care. We reviewed 241 studies (January 2000–December 2024) from various search engines. Among these, 85 studies involved clinical interventions. This review highlights the efficacy of various Ayurvedic interventions in managing Avabahuka by alleviating pain, stiffness, and restoring mobility, and emphasizes the need for further evidence-based research
International Challenges and Complexities of Data Collection in National Health Accounts: A Narrative Review (2024)
Get PDFNational Health Accounts (NHAs) are a critical tool in hands of governments worldwide to decide upon the health policies and allocation of scarce healthcare resources. The outcomes depend on the quality and adequacy of NHA data. This international literature review examines the practical barriers and methodological challenges in collecting the data for NHAs. It ventures into the synthesis of findings based on 46 research papers published between 2000 AD and 2024 AD collected from various relevant sources. This study identifies multifaceted challenges spanning infrastructural, methodological, technological, institutional, and contextual dimensions. There are significant infrastructural constraints, particularly in developing regions of the world which include inadequate health management information systems, non-standardized data collection methods, and challenges in capturing the national health expenditures incurred on treatment by indigenous and traditional medicine systems in different countries. This review also highlights other critical impediments, such as methodological inconsistencies, technological limitations, data quality concerns, and governance and administrative challenges across different healthcare systems. The study emphasizes the urgent need for adequate investment in technological infrastructure, standardization of data collection methods, enhanced training programs, and stronger ethical frameworks for better outcomes. This study concludes that addressing these multifaceted challenges will play significant role in improving the reliability and utility of NHA data, ultimately enabling evidence-based policy-making, effective resource allocation, and enhanced healthcare outcomes on a global scale
Anterior Cutaneous Nerve Entrapment syndrome: A Case Report
Get PDFAnterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome (ACNES) is a usually misdiagnosed and untreated or undertreated chronic state of pain. This syndrome is described by the cutaneous branches of the lower thoracoabdominal intercostal nerves become trapped at the lateral border of the rectus abdominis muscle, causing intense, frequently refractory, and persistent pain. The management strategies for ACNES include trigger point injections (diagnostic and therapeutic), ultrasound-guided blocks, and surgical neurectomy, in combination with systemic medication, as well as some newer technique such as radiofrequency ablation
Occupational Exposure to COVID-19 among Healthcare Workers: Risk Patterns and Mental Health Implications
Get PDFBackground: Healthcare workers (HCWs) were among the most vulnerable groups during the COVID-19 pandemic due to direct exposure to infected patients and prolonged work in high-risk environments. In addition to infection risk, HCWs experienced considerable psychological stress. This study aimed to assess the occupational exposure patterns to COVID-19 among HCWs and evaluate the mental health implications and quality of life outcomes. Methodology: A mixed retrospective and prospective descriptive study was conducted from March 2020 to January 2022 at the Government Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), Chandigarh. A total of 241 HCWs exposed to COVID-19 were included. Data on demographic characteristics, exposure type and frequency, PPE use, and mental health outcomes were collected. Depression, anxiety, stress, PTSD, and quality of life were assessed using validated scales. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v26.0. Results: Of the 241 HCWs, 60.6% were female and 41.9% were aged 26–34 years. Most participants (87.6%) reported a single exposure. Common exposure settings included non-COVID wards (38.6%), emergency areas (25.9%), and operation theatres (14.1%). Only 39.3% of HCWs used full PPE during exposures. Mental health issues were significantly more prevalent in the high-risk group: PTSD (6.7%), depression (23.4%), anxiety (30%), and stress (33.3%) compared to the low-risk group. A statistically significant difference was observed in physical health-related quality of life between high- and low-risk HCWs (p = 0.014). Overall dissatisfaction with health was also higher in the high-risk group (10% vs. 2.2%). However, even low-risk workers reported psychological symptoms, indicating the widespread mental impact of the pandemic. Conclusion: The study highlights the dual burden of infection risk and psychological distress among HCWs. Inadequate PPE use and repeated exposures worsened mental health outcomes. Findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted occupational safety measures and mental health support systems for HCWs, especially durin
Kid-sized Dentistry: Where Big Smile Begin with Little Tools
Get PDFBackground: Treating children in dental settings poses unique challenges, primarily due to fear and anxiety. Many kids associate dental visits with pain, scary sounds, and unfamiliar environments, leading to uncooperative behavior, missed appointments, and neglected oral health. Pediatric dentistry is revolutionizing the experience with kid-sized innovations. Advancements such as soft laser treatments and captivating virtual reality experiences transform dental visits into enjoyable and stress-free moments, creating a secure and interactive environment where kids feel confident, comfortable, and excited to share their smiles. Aim: The aim of this review article is to emphasize and improve the knowledge of all available dentistry instruments in kid sized availability or size that favours dealing with the pediatric patients. Conclusion: This review showcases a game-changer for little patients to turn dental visits into pleasant adventures. With kid-sized dentistry, dentists can transform a child’s anxiety into fun, build lasting trust, and instill healthy oral habits early, creating a generation of confident smiles