The Nigerian Postgraduate Medical Journal[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Balancing Work and Personal Life for Frontline Workers Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Puthur D, Monica BS
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766273 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted the work-life balance of frontline workers by increasing workload, stress and exposure risks. Despite their crucial role, limited research has examined the sp...
BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly disrupted the work-life balance of frontline workers by increasing workload, stress and exposure risks. Despite their crucial role, limited research has examined the specific factors influencing this balance, hindering the development of evidence-based interventions. AIMS: This study explored the challenges frontline workers faced during the pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted amongst 112 frontline workers recruited through convenience sampling. Work-life balance, mental health and recreational activities were assessed using validated instruments. Data were analysed using factor analysis, multiple regression and ANOVA to identify determinants of work-life balance and evaluate the mediating role of recreational activities. RESULTS: Three key factors-responsibility, flexibility and hierarchical culture-were identified as significant influences on work-life balance. Regression analysis showed that the pandemic accounted for approximately 50% of the variance in balance scores, while ANOVA further confirmed its substantial disruptive effect. Recreational activities played a mediating role, with flexibility and supportive organisational culture contributing positively to both mental health and overall well-being. CONCLUSION: The findings underscore the importance of organisational policies that promote flexible work arrangements, supportive supervisory structures and opportunities for recreational engagement. Such interventions are essential for protecting the well-being and resilience of frontline workers during health crises.
Correlation of Kidney Injury Molecule-1 and Renal Lipotoxicity among Adult Obese Individuals with Asymptomatic Kidney Function.
Onyekwena AN, Nnakenyi ID, Nnakenyi EF
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766272 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a chronic metabolic condition characterised by excessive fat deposition with deleterious effects on human health. Obesity can adversely affect renal function by causing defective lipid build-up and...
BACKGROUND: Obesity is a chronic metabolic condition characterised by excessive fat deposition with deleterious effects on human health. Obesity can adversely affect renal function by causing defective lipid build-up and increased deposition of fat in the renal sinus. AIMS: The aim of this study was to establish the relationship between serum Kidney Injury Molecule-1 (KIM-1) concentration and renal lipotoxicity, using serum free fatty acid (FFA) level as its surrogate marker, among asymptomatic adult obese individuals. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of adult obese outpatients in the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, without signs and symptoms of kidney damage, assessed for levels of serum KIM-1 and FFA, as well as anthropometry parameters and other markers of renal damage. Non-parametric tests were used for variables that were not normally distributed. ρ <0.05 was statistically significant. RESULTS: Two hundred and twenty-seven participants with a mean age of 40 ± 11 years were recruited, of whom 112 were obese subjects and 115 non-obese controls. The median (interquartile range) serum KIM-1 level among the obese participants (545.7 [469.3-608.2 pg/mL]) was significantly lower than that of the non-obese controls (672.6 [579.8-807.4 pg/mL]) (ρ <0.01), even though FFA was not significantly different between the two groups (ρ = 0.991). Among the obese subjects, there was a positive correlation between serum KIM-1 and FFA (r = 0.232, ρ = 0.014), but a negative correlation with waist circumference (WC) (r = -0.236, ρ = 0.013) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) (r = -0.315, ρ = 0.001) which were statistically significant. CONCLUSION: Serum KIM-1 levels were lower in the obese subjects than in the non-obese controls, even though there was no difference in serum FFA levels among the two groups. The obese group showed an inverse relationship of serum KIM-1 with WC and WHR, respectively.
Perception of Medical Speciality Professors towards Including Artificial Intelligence in their Curricula.
Cordero-Franco HF, Carrillo-García JM, Romero-García MA … +1 more , Garza FJG
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766271 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Medical residents have shown interest in artificial intelligence (AI) for their clinical and academic activities; however, research on the perception of speciality professors regarding AI is lacking. AIMS: To...
BACKGROUND: Medical residents have shown interest in artificial intelligence (AI) for their clinical and academic activities; however, research on the perception of speciality professors regarding AI is lacking. AIMS: To estimate the proportion of medical professors who perceive it necessary to include AI in the curricula of their specialities, along with their self-efficacy, perceived benefits and identified barriers to AI tools. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study of 108 medical speciality professors in Monterrey, Mexico, in June 2024. We sent them a self-administered questionnaire that included questions about the professors' perceptions of the need to incorporate AI in the specialities' curricula, their self-efficacy, benefits, barriers to AI and other variables. We estimated relative frequencies, 95% confidence intervals (CI), measures of central tendency and dispersion. Self-efficacy, benefits and barriers scores were compared by interest variables using the Mann-Whitney or Student's t-tests. P < 0.05 was significant. RESULTS: Ninety-eight professors (90.7%, 95% CI: 85.3-96.2) considered it necessary to incorporate AI into their academic programmes. Self-efficacy scores were higher among those working in the private sector and those with a course, workshop or diploma in AI. In addition, those with a master's degree or a doctorate, who had completed a course, workshop or diploma, showed higher benefits scores. CONCLUSIONS: Nine out of ten professors of medical specialities believe it is necessary to include AI in their curricula, with a high perception of its self-efficacy and benefits. Academic authorities in medical specialisation should examine the growing integration of AI in modern educational environments.
Clinical and Mycological Profile of Dermatophytosis in a Rural Tertiary Care Hospital, Central India.
Warghade AP, Shaw D, Mudey G
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766270 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection that has emerged as a significant public health concern. The present study investigated the clinical and mycological characteristics of dermatophytosis from t...
BACKGROUND: Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal infection that has emerged as a significant public health concern. The present study investigated the clinical and mycological characteristics of dermatophytosis from the central India rural tertiary care hospital. AIM AND OBJECTIVES: To characterise the clinicomycological profile of dermatophytosis from the tertiary care hospital in central India. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 95 patients with suspected dermatophytosis were enrolled during a period of 1 year and 9 months. Demographic details, clinical history and clinical samples from infected sites (skin, hair and nail) were collected after patient consent. Dermatophytes' growth was identified based on the phenotypic methods. RESULTS: A total of 95 clinically diagnosed dermatophytosis cases were enrolled, and the most common clinical manifestation was tinea corporis 73.68% (n = 70), followed by tinea cruris 9.47% (n = 9). In addition, 52.63% (n = 50) were females and 47.37% (n = 45) were males. A higher number of cases accounted for chronic dermatophytosis (50.52%), followed by recurrent dermatophytosis (40%). The contact history of animal and soil contact was found to be 11.57% each. Of the 95 samples, dermatophyte growth was observed in 44.21% (n = 42) isolates, where Trichophyton mentagrophytes complex was the predominant organism 33.68% (n = 32), followed by Trichophyton rubrum 9.47% (n = 9) and Trichophyton tonsurans, 1.05% (n = 1). CONCLUSION: T. mentagrophyte complex is the predominant dermatophyte in central India. Tinea corporis is a significant clinical finding reported; further, the animal's contact history is an essential risk factor associated with this disease.
Prevalence of Dermatophytes among Tinea Capitis-infected Pupils and Associated Risk Factors in Some Southwestern States of Nigeria.
Ukhureigbe OM, Ajoseh SO, Agubata ZC … +4 more , Akinyele HA, Egwuatu TO, Akinyemi KO, Moro DD
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766269 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Tinea capitis, also called dermatophytosis of the scalp, is the most common tinea infection in children within pre-pubertal age. The causative agents, Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum spp., are hi...
BACKGROUND: Tinea capitis, also called dermatophytosis of the scalp, is the most common tinea infection in children within pre-pubertal age. The causative agents, Trichophyton, Epidermophyton and Microsporum spp., are highly predominant in Africa, Asia and Europe. AIMS: This study investigated the prevalence of tinea capitis among public primary school children and ascertained the epidemiological risk factors. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Scalp lesions were collected from 102 pupils with suspected cases of dermatophytosis between March 2017 and August 2017 in Lagos, Ogun and Ekiti States. A structured pretested questionnaire was designed to gather data on sociodemographic and potential risk variables, followed by analysis using IBM SPSS version 20. Scalp lesion samples were analysed using culture and biochemical assay. The polymerase chain reaction was performed using the primer pairs 'DERM' F1 and 'DERM' R2 gene markers. RESULTS: Out of 102 samples, 95 (93.1%) were positive by microscopy and 75 (78.9%) by culture. Three fungal genera, Microsporum (65.3%), Trichophyton (29.3%) and Epidermophyton (5.3%) were identified. Amongst the dermatophytes isolated, Microsporum canis constituted 28%, followed by 9.1% Trichophyton rubrum and 9.1% Trichophyton verrucosum. All the isolates were confirmed to possess 'DERM' genes 1 and 2. Gender, age and place of hair shaving were among the risk factors that predisposed the participants to tinea capitis. A substantial statistical difference (P < 0.05) was seen between male and female learners who were infected with dermatophytes. CONCLUSION: This study revealed a high prevalence of dermatophytes, with M. canis being the most predominant fungal pathogen. Risk factors such as gender and age predispose subjects to infections. Accurate and prompt surveillance of the burden of tinea capitis is essential to prevent further transmission.
Undernutrition among Tuberculosis Patients in Southern Afghanistan: Prevalence and Determinants.
Stanikzai MH, Bariz H, Anwary Z … +1 more , Stanikzai KA
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766268 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Poor nutritional status among tuberculosis (TB) patients contributes to treatment failure and poor prognosis. However, no study has provided information on the nutritional conditions of Afghan TB patients. Us...
BACKGROUND: Poor nutritional status among tuberculosis (TB) patients contributes to treatment failure and poor prognosis. However, no study has provided information on the nutritional conditions of Afghan TB patients. Using data from five TB care facilities in southern Afghanistan, this study aimed to determine the extent of undernutrition and examine its determinants in TB patients. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study that utilised data from five TB care centres in four southern Afghan provinces. Data were collected between May and July 2025. Patients with TB who were aged ≥18 years were included in the analysis. Heights and weights were measured in metres (m) and kilograms (kg), respectively. Patients with a body mass index <18.5 kg/m2 were considered undernourished. Binary logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with undernutrition in TB patients. RESULTS: Of the 431 patients, 40.4% were undernourished. In adjusted models, odds of undernutrition were higher among females (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 4.12; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.41-7.04), rural residents (AOR 3.85; 95% CI 2.11-7.02), currently unmarried (AOR 1.86; 95% CI 1.11-3.13), smokers (AOR 11.06; 95% CI 5.27-23.21), patients with severe disease (AOR 2.23; 95% CI 1.16-4.28) and those with medical comorbidity (AOR 2.34; 95% CI 1.32-4.17). CONCLUSION: In conclusion, the prevalence of undernutrition is alarmingly high in Afghan TB patients. Therefore, nutrition-focused education and support should be considered key elements of TB care in Afghanistan.
Correlation of Pulse Pressure Index and High-sensitivity C-reactive Protein as Predictors of Diastolic Dysfunction in Essential Hypertension - A Prospective Observational Study at a Tertiary Care Centre in Chengalpattu.
Rani TS, Nalabothula RT, Kumarasamy S … +2 more , Kumar JS, Bolisetty SS
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766267 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Pulse pressure index (PPI) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) are potential markers for vascular compliance and inflammation, respectively, and may predict diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive...
BACKGROUND: Pulse pressure index (PPI) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) are potential markers for vascular compliance and inflammation, respectively, and may predict diastolic dysfunction in hypertensive individuals. AIMS: This study aimed to evaluate the association of PPI and hs-CRP with diastolic dysfunction in newly diagnosed essential hypertensive patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective observational study included 82 patients aged >40 years with newly diagnosed hypertension. Baseline PPI and hs-CRP levels were measured, and two-dimensional echocardiography was performed to assess and grade DD. Patients received standard antihypertensive therapy, and follow-ups were conducted at 3 and 6 months to reassess parameters. RESULTS: At baseline, 74.4% of patients had diastolic dysfunction, predominantly Grade 1 and 2. hs-CRP showed a strong positive association with diastolic dysfunction (β = 0.885, P = 0.025), while PPI had a moderate correlation (β = 0.475, P = 0.035). Antihypertensive therapy significantly improved diastolic function over 6 months (P = 0.032), though PPI did not show a significant change (P = 0.435). CONCLUSION: hs-CRP is a strong indicator of inflammation-driven diastolic dysfunction, while PPI serves as a surrogate for vascular stiffness. Early identification using these markers can enhance clinical assessment and guide timely intervention in hypertensive patients.
Effect of Morning versus Bedtime Telmisartan on Ambulatory Blood Pressure and Exercise Response in Diabetic Hypertensive Patients: A Randomised Cross-over Trial.
Teja NR, Rani TS, Karra KR … +2 more , Kumar JS, Kumar N
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766266 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Chronotherapy optimises the management of hypertension by synchronising medication with circadian rhythms. When taken in accordance with biological patterns, the long-acting angiotensin II receptor blocker te...
BACKGROUND: Chronotherapy optimises the management of hypertension by synchronising medication with circadian rhythms. When taken in accordance with biological patterns, the long-acting angiotensin II receptor blocker telmisartan may provide extra advantages, particularly for patients with diabetes mellitus who have hypertension. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study is to compare the effects of telmisartan 40 mg taken in the morning versus at bedtime on the mean blood pressure (BP) during the day and at night, as well as the BP response to exercise, in patients with diabetes mellitus. METHODS: Forty diabetic hypertensive patients were given telmisartan either in the morning or at bedtime for 8 weeks, followed by a 1-week washout and cross-over in a cross-over randomised controlled trial. In addition to treadmill exercise testing (Bruce protocol), ambulatory BP was measured. RESULTS: Bedtime dosing considerably reduced the systolic and diastolic BP at night when compared to morning dosing. Morning dosing was especially successful in lowering BP increases brought on by exercise. No noteworthy adverse events were observed. CONCLUSION: Bedtime telmisartan dosage improves nocturnal BP control, but morning dosage more successfully lowers exercise-induced BP spikes. Individualised chronotherapy may improve outcomes and control hypertension in diabetic patients.
Assessment of the Likelihood of Insulin Resistance and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Based on Serum Resistin Status among Nigerians.
Okafor JC, Odum EP, Okpara HC … +1 more , Amadi C
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766265 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Raised serum resistin is adjudged to increase the likelihood of insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through multiple biochemical pathways. AIMS: The current study assessed the likeliho...
BACKGROUND: Raised serum resistin is adjudged to increase the likelihood of insulin resistance (IR) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) through multiple biochemical pathways. AIMS: The current study assessed the likelihood of IR and T2DM among Nigerians based on serum resistin status. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This case-controlled study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in southern Nigeria, among 100 T2DM patients matched with age/gender controls. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data, including serum resistin status, were collected using standard protocols. T2DM diagnosis was made using recommended guidelines. Statistical analyses were conducted using descriptive statistics, logistic regression models, and area under the curve (AUC) of the receiver-operating characteristic curve at a 95% confidence level (CI) and an alpha value of <0.05. RESULTS: T2DM patients had higher mean values of body mass index (BMI), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), fasting serum insulin (FIN), homoeostatic model assessment of IR values (HOMA-IR) and serum resistin compared to controls (P < 0.05). Compared to the lowest quartile of serum resistin among T2DM patients, the likelihood of attaining IR status and T2DM risk increased with increasing quartiles of serum resistin, independent of matching factors (age/gender), occupation, BMI, FPG, FIN and HOMA-IR (Ptrend < 0.001). Increasing serum resistin had good predictive value on the likelihood of attaining IR status (AUC: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.72-0.85; P < 0.001) and T2DM risk (AUC: 0.89; 95% CI: 0.83-0.93; P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Current findings indicate a likelihood of IR and T2DM in association with increasing serum resistin, corroborating the role of resistin in T2DM through IR.
Exploring the Predictors of Substance Use and Psychological Distress in Adolescents from Slum Areas of Dibrugarh, Assam, India.
Mahanta MM, Sekaran VC, Radhakrishna A … +2 more , Prabhu V, Ashok L
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766264 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of substance use and psychological distress amongst adolescents living in the slum areas of Dibrugarh, Assam. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional su...
OBJECTIVE: This study investigated the prevalence and determinants of substance use and psychological distress amongst adolescents living in the slum areas of Dibrugarh, Assam. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 276 adolescents aged 12-19 years from randomly chosen four slums of Dibrugarh of India. This study has utilised two standard questionnaires: the World Health Organization's Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test (WHO ASSIST V3.0) for assessing substance use and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire for adolescent psychological distress. RESULTS: The prevalence of substance use was found to be 35.8% and 23.9% of participants reported abnormal total difficulty scores. The key determinants included age, gender and family type. CONCLUSIONS: The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions addressing both substance use and mental health issues in this vulnerable population.
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B Viral Infections in Ondo State, Nigeria.
Odimayo MS, Okiki PA, Oyeneyin A … +2 more , Obajuluwa AO, Dolani DZ
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766263 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of liver-associated morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for over 354 million cases with high morbidity and fatalities. About 90% of infected people are unawa...
BACKGROUND: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a major cause of liver-associated morbidity and mortality worldwide, accounting for over 354 million cases with high morbidity and fatalities. About 90% of infected people are unaware of their status. Efforts at significant reduction and elimination have come a long way; yet, more concerted efforts are still needed. OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of hepatitis B viral infections in Ondo State Nigeria. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted this study from May to December 2024 across the 3 senatorial districts in Ondo State, using a stratified random sampling technique. Subjects ranging from 20 years and above were randomly selected. After a brief health education at each location, 5 ml of fresh blood was aseptically collected from each subject who accepted screening. Double screening for hepatitis B surface antigen was done for each subject using rapid diagnostic kits. Each positive sample and 1 in every 10 negative subjects were also tested using hepatitis B enzyme linked immuno-sorbent assay antigen detection. RESULTS: Amongst the 1979 subjects recruited, 139 were positive for HBV, giving a prevalence rate of 7.02%, with a male-to-female prevalence ratio of 2:1. Male gender, monogamous marriage and singles had higher risks of HBV infection. Alignment with health education as personal prevention efforts significantly reduced HBV among the subjects. Inversely, lifestyles such as habitual alcohol intake and smoking were significant predictors of hepatitis B infection. CONCLUSION: This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of HBV in Ondo State, Nigeria. Highlighting the need for more coordinated efforts towards the prevention and control of the spread of HBV as we move towards the elimination of viral Hepatitis.
Factors Associated with Hypertension and Predicted 10-year Cardiovascular Diseases Risk: A Cross-sectional Study of Commercial Vehicle Drivers in Calabar, Nigeria.
Effiwatt U, Ekpenyong N, Alenoghena I … +5 more , Obaji A, Mkpanam N, Henshaw E, Agbor IE, Ameh S
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766262 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Over 85% of NCD-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), particularly Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where marked increases from preceding decades have been recorded. Physical inactivity and...
BACKGROUND: Over 85% of NCD-related deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC), particularly Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) where marked increases from preceding decades have been recorded. Physical inactivity and consumption of unhealthy diets are major precursors for hypertension, which has been reported as the most prevalent and important Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) risk factor. There are several reports on increased prevalence of hypertension, physical inactivity, and consumption of unhealthy diets among commercial vehicle drivers. AIMS: The study aimed to determine factors associated with hypertension and predict 10-year CVD risk in commercial vehicle drivers in Calabar, southern Nigeria. METHODS: This study was a cross-sectional investigation of 380 commercial drivers, recruited using systematic sampling. Data were collected using an adapted World Health Organization STEP instrument. Binary logistic regression analysis was done at 5% significance level. RESULTS: The prevalence of hypertension was approximately 40%. Age >44 years (odds ratio [OR] = 4.4, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9, 5.4), high body mass index (OR = 3.1, 95% CI 1.9, 5.3), years of professional driving (>5 years) (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.5, 3.0), and fasting blood sugar >7 mmol/L (OR = 1.7, 95% CI: 1.5, 2.9) were associated with developing hypertension. The long-distance drivers had nearly two-fold increased odds (OR = 1.8, 95% CI: 1.9, 2.7) of a 10-year CVD risk compared to the short-distance drivers. CONCLUSION: The high prevalence of hypertension and a two-fold increase in the 10-year predicted risk of CVD events found among the study population necessitate frequent health awareness campaigns and periodic health screening among the higher-risk group. This will aid in the early detection of CVD risk factors and prompt treatment.
The Prognostic Value of Serum Amylase in Patients with Paraquat Poisoning: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.
Zeng X, Zhong S, Zheng X … +1 more , Li Z
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Mar · PMID 41766261 · Publisher ↗
OBJECTIVE: The objective was to assess whether amylase (AMY) and other laboratory parameters have a prognostic value for patients with Paraquat (PQ) poisoning. MATERIALS AND METHODS THIS SYSTEMATIC REVIEW FOLLOWED PRISMA...
OBJECTIVE: The objective was to assess whether amylase (AMY) and other laboratory parameters have a prognostic value for patients with Paraquat (PQ) poisoning. MATERIALS AND METHODS THIS SYSTEMATIC REVIEW FOLLOWED PRISMA GUIDELINES A COMPREHENSIVE LITERATURE SEARCH WAS PERFORMED IN MULTIPLE DATABASES TWO INVESTIGATORS INDEPENDENTLY EXTRACTED DATA ON STUDY CHARACTERISTICS AND OUTCOMES THE METHODOLOGICAL QUALITY WAS ASSESSED USING THE NEWCASTLEOTTAWA SCALE: Standard mean difference and 95% confidence intervals were calculated to compare the endpoints. RESULTS: In total, 17 studies comprising 1673 patients were enrolled, 731 patients (43.69%) were defined as survivors, while 942 patients (56.31%) were considered non-survivors. The levels of AMY and plasma PQ were significantly higher in non-survivors when compared to subjects in the survival group. The white blood cell count, concentration of C-reactive protein, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, alanine aminotransferase and asparagine transaminase were significantly increased in the non-survivor group, while serum potassium, pH and PaCO2 were decreased in the non-survivor group. In addition, PaO2 values were similar between the two groups. Notably, heterogeneity was a key feature across the analyses: most primary and secondary prognostic indicators exhibited high to extreme heterogeneity (I² range: 0.0%-96.7%), with the highest heterogeneity observed for CRP (I²=96.7%) and PaO2 (I²=90.1%). CONCLUSION: A lower level of AMY and plasma PQ in poisoning patients might have a good prognosis value.
Learning and Teaching in Medical Education by Dr. Salami Sule, FMCPH, MMEd.
Isezuo S
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479202 · Publisher ↗
Abstract loading — click title to view on PubMed.
Antiphospholipid Antibodies in In vitro Fertilisation: Pathogenesis, Implantation Failure and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies.
Parida A, Nair N, Sengupta R … +1 more , Lele A
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479201 · Publisher ↗
Infertility, defined as an inability to get pregnant following 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, is a significant problem, and 15% is unexplained. Autoimmune conditions such as anti-phospholipid syndrome (AP...
Infertility, defined as an inability to get pregnant following 12 months of regular, unprotected intercourse, is a significant problem, and 15% is unexplained. Autoimmune conditions such as anti-phospholipid syndrome (APS) and systemic lupus erythematosus cause infertility by altering implantation by thrombophilic mechanisms and immune derangement. Despite progress in assisted reproductive technologies, implantation failure continues to be a strong hindrance, determined by maternal health, immune tolerance and endometrial receptivity. Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPLs) compromise trophoblast function, enhance thrombosis risk and account for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) failure, recurrent pregnancy loss and pregnancy complications. A review of 45 peer-reviewed articles published over the past 8 years was performed on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. MeSH terms used were 'antiphospholipid syndrome', 'in vitro fertilization', and 'infertility'. Non-English publications, case reports, editorials and conference abstracts were not included. Results suggest that APS and aPL inhibit implantation due to trophoblast malfunction, inflammation and thrombosis, causing infertility and recurrent pregnancy loss. In IVF, aPL correlates with reduced rates of implantation and live birth, with various subtypes of antibodies predicting adverse outcomes. Traditional therapies such as low-dose aspirin and low-molecular-weight heparin are routine, whereas novel therapies such as intravenous immunoglobulin, rituximab and eculizumab hold promise for resistant disease. Due to the inconclusive effect of aPL on IVF success, individualised risk stratification and focused anticoagulation regimens are important for maximising reproductive outcomes.
Sex-specific Anthropometric Variations and the Influence of Central Obesity on Thyroid Hormone Regulation: A Cross-sectional Study.
Sharma LA, Karmakar J, Ranendra K … +2 more , Haque MZ, Singh LS
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479200 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Thyroid hormones, namely triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), serve as pivotal regulators of energy metabolism and are subject to variation based on sex and adiposity....
BACKGROUND: Thyroid hormones, namely triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), serve as pivotal regulators of energy metabolism and are subject to variation based on sex and adiposity. AIMS: This study aimed to elucidate the function of thyroid hormones in metabolic regulation and potential for clinical applications. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed at the Department of Physiology, Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, from September 2023 to June 2024, involving 168 healthy adults aged 20-60 years. Anthropometric parameters such as body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were assessed. Serum concentrations of TSH, T3 and T4 were quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Participants were categorised according to BMI (normal, overweight and obese), WC and WHR thresholds established by World Health Organisation and Asian Indian criteria. Statistical evaluations employed t-tests, ANOVA and Pearson's correlation, with significance established at P < 0.05. RESULTS: Males demonstrated larger body size compared to females, with no significant difference observed in BMI and thyroid hormones. Increased BMI, WC and WHR correlated with higher serum levels of TSH and T3 levels, while T4 showed minimal variation. Strong positive correlations were found between BMI and TSH (r = 0.46, P = 0.00) and T3 (r = 0.60, P = 0.00) across the total cohort. CONCLUSION: This investigation demonstrates a significant correlation between adiposity markers and higher thyroid hormone concentrations, notably TSH and T3, indicating adaptive mechanisms to increased fat mass. These results highlight the necessity of taking into account for sex-specific anthropometric variations and central obesity metrics such as WHR in assessing thyroid function.
Ultrasound Elastography and Cytological Analysis for Effective Thyroid Nodule Classification.
Pentakota LB, Patil PS
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479199 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Traditional methods such as manual palpation and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) have limitations in differentiating benign and malignant thyroid nodules (TNs). AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the ac...
BACKGROUND: Traditional methods such as manual palpation and fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) have limitations in differentiating benign and malignant thyroid nodules (TNs). AIM: This study aimed to evaluate the accuracy of ultrasound elastography (USE) in differentiating benign and malignant TNs in a tertiary care hospital setting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study among patients with TNs who visited the hospital between July 2022 and November 2023. Patients with solitary TNs detected through ultrasonography (USG) were included. All patients underwent USG, USE and FNAC. Quantitative data were presented as mean, while qualitative data were expressed as frequencies and percentages. The diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity and specificity were calculated. A Chi-square test was used to assess the relationship between different methods used for diagnosis. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS: A total of 33 patients, 84.8% female, mean age of 49.4 ± 19.6 years, were included. Histological evaluation revealed 39.4% of the lesions were malignant with a predominance of papillary carcinoma (61.5%), while 60.6% were benign. Among the benign lesions, majority were identified as colloid nodules (70.0%). Diagnostic efficacy of thyroid imaging reporting and data system (TI-RADS) was 78% and there was a significant correlation between TI-RADS classification and cytological findings (P = 0.00025). USE showed a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of 80.0%, 92.3%, 94.1% and 75.0%, respectively. There was a significant correlation between the elastography findings and the cytological outcomes (P = 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: USE shows great potential as a novel method for differentiating solid TNs and indicating optimal sites for FNAC.
Relation between Hypertension and Hearing Loss: A Study of Hypertensive Patients in a Tertiary Hospital in Lagos, Nigeria.
Asoegwu CN, Wakwe NA, Ajuluchukwu JN … +1 more , Nwawolo CC
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479198 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major non-communicable disease of public health concern. In Nigeria, the rate is between 28% and 42.2%. Hypertension or the prolonged use of some antihypertensive drugs has been associated w...
BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major non-communicable disease of public health concern. In Nigeria, the rate is between 28% and 42.2%. Hypertension or the prolonged use of some antihypertensive drugs has been associated with hearing loss in studies. There is a paucity of studies on this in our environment. AIMS: Therefore, this study aims to evaluate the relationship between hearing thresholds and hypertension. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a hospital-based cross-sectional comparative study of hypertensive and non-hypertensive patients. Ethical approval for the study was obtained. Informed consent was obtained from the participants. A researcher-administered structured pro forma was utilised to obtain demographic and medical history data. Blood pressure measurement and pure-tone audiometry were performed on all the participants. Data were analysed using SPSS version 25. RESULTS: One hundred and twenty-eight participants each were recruited from the hypertensive and control groups for the study. The age range of the hypertension group was 27-60 years. The frequency of hearing loss amongst the hypertension and control groups was 47.7% and 15.6%, respectively (P < 0.001). The mean pure-tone average for the hypertension group was 29.2 dB ± 18.5/28.3 dB ± 20.5 and 21.6 dB ± 8.7/20.6 dB ± 8 in the right and left ears of the hypertensive and control groups, respectively. The frequency of hearing loss in the controlled and uncontrolled hypertensive subjects was 44.7% and 52%, respectively (P = 0.424). Hearing loss frequency was 50% in hypertensive subjects on diuretic and/or beta-blockers and 46% in those on other antihypertensive drugs (P = 0.650). CONCLUSION: The frequency of hearing loss in the hypertension group was significantly higher than in the control group.
The Prevalence of Low Back Pain among Female Hospital Staff at Childbearing Age in Kurdistan Region, Iraq.
Khalid AK, Rasool MT
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479197 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) in low- and middle-income countries has received less attention. AIMS: To identify the prevalence of low back pain and associated factors in female hospital staff. METHODS: We included 320...
BACKGROUND: Low back pain (LBP) in low- and middle-income countries has received less attention. AIMS: To identify the prevalence of low back pain and associated factors in female hospital staff. METHODS: We included 320 female hospital staff in a tertiary medical setting in the Kurdistan Region. RESULTS: The study involved 320 participants aged 18-45 years, included doctors (37.19%), nurses (19.06%), administrative staff (11.88%) and others (31.88%). It found that 75% experienced LBP in the past year, with 60% reporting pain lasting 7-12 months. Pain severity was mostly mild (44.58%) or moderate (35%), and 80.83% experienced occasional pain. LBP interfered with daily activities for 45.42% of participants. Work-related factors contributing to LBP included prolonged standing (61.88%), sitting (39.38%), repetitive bending (22.19%), awkward postures (16.25%), crouching (16.25%) and stooping (16.25%). Those aged 31-35 are more likely to experience LBP than those aged 18-25 (odds ratio [OR]: 2.82; P = 0.0453) along with married individuals (OR: 2.34; P = 0.0136), doctors (OR: 3.06; P = 0.0136) and nurses (OR: 2.29; P = 0.0136), and healthcare workers (HCWs) compared to non-HCWs (81.67% vs. 66.43%; P = 0.0018). Evening or rotating shifts (OR: 8.23; P = 0.002) and awkward postures (OR: 2.41; P = 0.0358) also increased risk. Regular breaks reduced LBP likelihood (OR: 0.36; P = 0.0360), whereas a pregnancy history raised it (OR: 2.03; P = 0.0097). CONCLUSIONS: The female hospital staff had a high prevalence of LBP, linked to increasing age, being an HCW, working evening or rotating shifts and involving inappropriate postures.
Diagnostic Utility of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient Values of Spleen and Liver in Assessment of Severity of Portal Hypertension and Liver Cirrhosis.
Siddhardha K, Jalaludheen S, Aiyappan SK
Niger Postgrad Med J · 2026 Jan · PMID 41479196 · Publisher ↗
BACKGROUND: Portal hypertension (PH) is a significant effect of chronic liver disease (CLD), resulting in variceal haemorrhage, ascites and hypersplenism. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and diffusion-weighted imagi...
BACKGROUND: Portal hypertension (PH) is a significant effect of chronic liver disease (CLD), resulting in variceal haemorrhage, ascites and hypersplenism. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) values serve as potential non-invasive indicators for evaluating the PH and liver fibrosis. AIMS: This study evaluated the impact of portal hypertension on the ADC values of the liver and spleen and related PH severity with the Child-Pugh score. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was performed with individuals exhibiting clinical and radiological indications of CLD and PH and also with healthy controls. Magnetic resonance imaging was employed to assess spleen and liver ADC values, which were linked with clinical severity of diseases. RESULTS: Liver ADC levels were substantially reduced among patients with cirrhosis when compared with controls, suggesting the existence of fibrosis. Conversely, spleen ADC values were elevated in affected patients, signifying splanchnic congestion. A particular spleen ADC level showed elevated sensitivity and specificity for detecting severe illness. Liver ADC reduced and spleen ADC enhanced with worsening Child-Pugh classification. An increased spleen ADC correlated with variceal hypersplenism and haemorrhage. CONCLUSION: DWI-derived ADC values constitute a non-invasive, reliable method for assessing liver fibrosis and the severity of PH, hence validating their application in clinical evaluation and early management for patients with CLD.
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