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Effects of Parental Smoking on Occurrence of Childhood Acute Leukemia
Fumio Bessho,
Masako Tanimura
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
61-65
Received:
28 August 2020
Accepted:
11 September 2020
Published:
23 September 2020
Abstract: We herein determined the effects of parental smoking on occurrence of childhood acute leukemia using the large volume of data accumulated in the Japan Children's Cancer Registry. Information on the smoking statuses of fathers was available for 4,802 acute leukemia cases diagnosed between 1985 and 2006 and that of mothers was available for 5,536 cases diagnosed between 1978 and 2006. We compared the smoking rates of parents whose children were diagnosed with leukemia with a control group of parents whose children were diagnosed with benign tumors or cancer-related diseases. The smoking rate of fathers was significantly larger than the control. The odds ratios were 1.284 for 1-9 cigarettes/day (c/d) before conception (p=0.127), 1.265 for 10-19 c/d (p=0.029), and 1.345 for more than 20 c/d (p=0.000). A logistic regression analysis controlling for sex, birth weight, paternal age at birth, and maternal smoking showed that the smoking rate of fathers whose children had acute leukemia was still significantly higher (OR 1.012, p=0.004). The difference of the smoking rate between mothers whose children had acute leukemia and the control mothers was not significant (OR 1.161, p=0.447).
Abstract: We herein determined the effects of parental smoking on occurrence of childhood acute leukemia using the large volume of data accumulated in the Japan Children's Cancer Registry. Information on the smoking statuses of fathers was available for 4,802 acute leukemia cases diagnosed between 1985 and 2006 and that of mothers was available for 5,536 cas...
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Factors Associated with the Progression of Preeclampsia at Kinshasa University Clinics in Democratic Republic of Congo
Vangu Vangu Roland,
Rahma Rashid Tozin,
Mbuyi Muamba Jean Marie,
Mokondjimobe Etienne,
Mambueni Thamba Christophe,
Vangu Ngoma Dieudonné,
Tsimba Vangu Andrien,
Makoso Nimi Blaise,
Mbungu Fuele Simon,
Nkodila Natuhoyila Aliocha,
Longo-Mbenza Benjamin
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
66-71
Received:
6 August 2020
Accepted:
24 August 2020
Published:
25 September 2020
Abstract: Background and aims: the progression of preeclampsia continues to increase in sub-Saharan Africa where care is inadequate. The objective of this study is to identify factors associated with the progression of preeclampsia at University Clinics of Kinshasa. Methods: This is a prospective and analytical study of 265 patients hospitalized at the Gynecology Service of the University Clinics of Kinshasa between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2015. The clinical, biological, therapeutic and evolutionary characteristics were the parameters of 'interest. Cox regression in multivariate analyzes was generated to identify risk factors for progression to the p <0.05 threshold. Results: The cumulative frequency of preeclapse decreased from 6.0% in the first year to 64.2% at the end of the study with periods of stagnation in the rate. Predictors of the progression of preeclampsia in the study population for F values equal to 2.86, 2.10, 3.57, 3.23, 2.81 and 0.005 and an α risk equal at 0.009; 0.014; 0.006; 0.007; 0.005 and 0.006 0.0005, respectively, for age, level of education, occupation, SAP, DBP and figure 3, led us to reject the null hypothesis of equality of means between progression and the lack of progression. In multiple cox regression, the risk of progression of preeclampsia was 3 times respectively in parturients aged > 35 years (aRR: 2.57 95% CI: 1.89-4.75), in female employees (aRR: 2.83 95% CI: 1.97-4.46); this risk was 2 times respectively among academics, PAS and PAD elevated. Treatment under scheme 3, on the other hand, reduced the risk of progression 2 (aRR: 0.43 95% CI: 0.28-0.63). Conclusion: the progression of pre-eclampsia could be linked to certain socio-demographic and clinical factors. The role played by the treatment regimen of αmethyl Dopa + Nifedipine + Diazepam remains to be defined in this subgroup.
Abstract: Background and aims: the progression of preeclampsia continues to increase in sub-Saharan Africa where care is inadequate. The objective of this study is to identify factors associated with the progression of preeclampsia at University Clinics of Kinshasa. Methods: This is a prospective and analytical study of 265 patients hospitalized at the Gynec...
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Psychological Impact of COVID-19 in Health Care Workers in Early Days of COVID-19 Pandemic
Anum Sultan,
Maria Hassan,
Durr-e-shahwar Hayat,
Muhammad Ali
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
72-76
Received:
26 June 2020
Accepted:
25 September 2020
Published:
30 September 2020
Abstract: Introduction: With the end of year 2019, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has emerged as the largest pandemic since 2003, rapidly spreading worldwide. COVID-19 was first discovered in Wuhan province in China, it is now declared as public health emergency of international concern by World Health Organization (WHO) on 30 January 2020. The evaluation of psychological impact and status of overburdened HCWs is of immense importance in regard to planning preventive strategies, dealing and coping with upcoming challenges in COVID-19 pandemic. To date, research on immediate psychological effect in HCWs working in hospitals, treating suspected or diagnosed patients with the 2019-nCoV (SARs-CoV-2) in Pakistan in early phases of COVID-19 outbreak is still deficient. We therefore, aimed to investigate the psychological status of HCWs in early phases of COVID-19 pandemic. Material and methods: This study was multicentre, cross-sectional survey conducted in multiple tertiary care hospitals performing diagnostic test, treating and managing patients with signs and symptoms of COVID -19 disease. Data was collected using a predesigned questionnaire Performa. HCWs working in all clinical departments including doctors, nursing staff, technicians and supporting staff were included in the study. HCWs not consenting for participation in study were excluded. Results: Total of 517 HCWs were included in the study of whom 267 (51.6%) were males and 250 (48.6%) were females. Mean age was 30.4 years (Standard deviation, SD: 7.2, age ranges from19-70 years). Regarding the risk of self-infection, 193 (37.3%) HCWs were worried and 156 (30.2%) were strongly worried. Female HCWs (31.2%) were more concerned than males (29.2%). Most of HCWs were apprehensive about their family members being infected from them. 58.4% of females were strongly worried and 29.2% of females were worried. Medical violence was also concern for HCWs. 39.2% of females and 40.8% of males were worried. Most of HCWs were strongly worried about the health of their colleagues treating and managing the COVID -19 patients on the front line. Prevention strategy for COVID-19 such as social distancing and lockdown was also a concern for all HCWs. Majority of HCWs (48.4%) were hopeful that this pandemic will end within 3 months. Conclusion: We have concluded that there is strong psychological impact among HCWs with special focus on doctors and nurses regarding COVID-19 pandemic making their mental health more vulnerable. Therefore, more attention should be paid on HCWs with allocation of medical and human resources and providing incentives to efficiently manage COVID-19 outbreak.
Abstract: Introduction: With the end of year 2019, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has emerged as the largest pandemic since 2003, rapidly spreading worldwide. COVID-19 was first discovered in Wuhan province in China, it is now declared as public health emergency of international concern by World Health Organization (WHO) on 30 January 2020. The evaluatio...
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Short-term Evaluation of Survival Newborns Having Spent a Day in Neonatology at the University Clinics of Kinshasa During Severe Preeclampsia: Prospective Cohort Survey
Vangu Vangu Roland,
Rahma Rashid Tozin,
Mbungu Mwimba Roger,
Mbuyi Muamba Jean Marie,
Mokondjimobe Etienne,
Mambueni Thamba Christophe,
Vangu Ngoma Dieudonné,
Tsimba Vangu Andrien,
Makoso Nimi Blaise,
Mbungu Fuele Simon,
Nkodila Natuhoyila Aliocha,
Longo-Mbenza Benjamin
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
77-82
Received:
5 August 2020
Accepted:
24 August 2020
Published:
13 October 2020
Abstract: Background and aims: neonatal mortality in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia remains a concern in our environment and several factors, including those related to complications of pre-eclampsia, contribute to it in our settings where the care is inadequate. The aims of our study is to determine the frequency of transfer to describe the survival of babies born to preeclampsia mothers admitted to the Pediatric Neonatology Department of University Clinics of Kinshasa over a consecutive period of approximately 30 days. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study carried out over a period from January 1, 2006 to December 31, 2015 targeting all babies born to preeclampsia mothers followed in the neonatal service of the University Clinics of Kinshasa. Maternal, perpartal, neonatal and evolutionary characteristics (cure or death) were studied. Survival was described by the Kaplan Meier method at the 5% significance level. Results: the recorded death rate was 26.5%. Gestational age between 28-36 weeks of amenorrhea conferred a risk of death in children 3 times, compared with APGAR <7 at the 1st, 5th and 10th which conferred a risk of 2, 3 and 3 times respectively. The overweight-obese mothers had a risk doubled of causing the death of newborns. Conclusion: The toll of neonatal mortality during preeclampsia is heavy in developing countries where newborns continue to die from often preventable causes. The reduction in neonatal morbidity and mortality requires an improvement in the system of care for newborns in our environment.
Abstract: Background and aims: neonatal mortality in pregnant women with pre-eclampsia remains a concern in our environment and several factors, including those related to complications of pre-eclampsia, contribute to it in our settings where the care is inadequate. The aims of our study is to determine the frequency of transfer to describe the survival of b...
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Assessment of Physical Fitness and Its Association with Sympathetic Activation Among the Students of Pokhara University, Nepal
Bijay Subedi,
Bishwas Subedi,
Sapana Bhandari,
Sabin Poudel,
Khem Raj Joshi
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
83-90
Received:
16 September 2020
Accepted:
5 October 2020
Published:
13 October 2020
Abstract: A 3-minute step test provides a feasible, low cost procedure with minimal risk to the participant for assessing physical fitness compared to maximal exercise testing. Test assessing the autonomic function (sympathetic wing) evaluates the cardiovascular reflex like increased blood pressure triggered by performing specific stimulating maneuvers such as Isometric Hand Grip Test (IHGT). We assessed & categorized the fitness level using a 3 min step test and its association with sympathetic activation during IHGT in university level students with sound health. There is increasing evidence of an association between Physical Fitness and academic performance. Two hundred consenting healthy students studying at Pokhara University (largest in western region of Nepal) aged 17-25 years underwent sub-maximal exercise as per the protocol of 3 min-step test given by Young Man’s Christian Associations (YMCA) to categorize as good & poor being based on recovery heart rate. Each groups undertook IHGT & changes in Diastolic Blood Pressure (DBP) were noted. About two third of the study participants were female and 70% of total students were of poor fitness level. Fitness level and sex was significantly associated (P=0.041, OR=1.92, CI=1.024- 3.606). More of the male participants had good fitness in comparison to that of the female participants (38.9% vs 24.8%). Differences in Diastolic Blood Pressure during IHGT and at rest (assess sympathetic activation during stress) was significantly associated with fitness level (P<0.001, OR=1.32, CI=1.201-1.446). Majority of university level students had poor fitness with high proportion in female. Students with good fitness level had good sympathetic activation to physical stress as compared to those with poor fitness level. Physical fitness (Cardiorespiratory fitness) is proven to induce angiogenesis in the motor cortex and increases blood flow, improving brain vascularization which could affect cognitive performance. So measuring physical fitness of university students at the time of admission or during the study period could help to predict their academic achievements through their reasoning function and ability of coping various stresses that they might encounter during academic journey. Those with poor physical fitness would be advised to improve the fitness by promoting physical activity.
Abstract: A 3-minute step test provides a feasible, low cost procedure with minimal risk to the participant for assessing physical fitness compared to maximal exercise testing. Test assessing the autonomic function (sympathetic wing) evaluates the cardiovascular reflex like increased blood pressure triggered by performing specific stimulating maneuvers such ...
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Evaluating the Preparedness of Child Health Facilities and Health Care Providers to COVID 19 Pandemic
Abideen Salako,
Oluwatosin Odubela,
Tomilola Musari-Martins,
Zaidat Musa,
Titilola Gbaja-Biamila,
Babasola Opaneye,
David Oladele,
Priscilla Ezemelue,
Harry Ohwodo,
Oliver Ezechi,
Agatha David
Issue:
Volume 8, Issue 5, September 2020
Pages:
91-96
Received:
10 September 2020
Accepted:
9 October 2020
Published:
17 October 2020
Abstract: The challenges of diagnosis of SARS-CoV2 infection in the paediatric population includes not only the mild nature of the disease, but the similarity in the symptomatology of the COVID-19 disease to common childhood illness, and the possibility that the infected children could be “silent transmitters” to the family members and health care workers [HCW]. The challenge raises the doubt on the level of preparedness, awareness of the child health facilities [HCF], and HCW in adopting measures at combatting the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study evaluated the preparedness and response of HCF and HCW in paediatric settings to the 2019-novel coronavirus pandemic. A cross-sectional study involving child HCF and HCW. An online tool was used to evaluate preparedness for the management of infectious disease outbreaks as typified by the COVID-19 Outbreak. The information collected included demographic characteristics of the health personnel providing care for children, infection control practices, knowledge, and preparedness for prevention of COVID-19. Data generated were analyzed using the SPSS version 23.0. A majority of respondents were medical doctors (89%), practicing for >5years (75%), and in public health care facilities (69%). A significant proportion of the health facilities had an infectious disease unit (68%) and policy on disease outbreak (60%) in place. 144 (96%) respondents knew SARS-CoV-2 was responsible for COVID-19 and the incubation period was an average of 2 – 14 days. Most of the respondents were aware that the disease could be with or without symptoms (86%), as well as mimic other childhood illnesses (93%). Most of the centres (55%) had fair policy strength towards combating the disease. IPC policies have been established in most paediatric facilities to combat the recurring threat of communicable disease outbreaks. There is a need for further scaling up of resources to address the COVID-19 pandemic.
Abstract: The challenges of diagnosis of SARS-CoV2 infection in the paediatric population includes not only the mild nature of the disease, but the similarity in the symptomatology of the COVID-19 disease to common childhood illness, and the possibility that the infected children could be “silent transmitters” to the family members and health care workers [H...
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