There are various methods of induction of labor (IOL). One of the commonly used method is use of Misoprostol. However, with the use of Misoprostol alone, there are cases of failed IOL leading to operative deliveries. Another drug, Mifepristone has been shown to be effective in cervical ripening and induction of labor. So the aim of this study was to assess the effectiveness of Mifepristone as pre-treatment with misoprostol in induction of labor, thereby decreasing the rates of Caesarean section. This was a prospective comparative study where, one group receiving pre-treatment with Mifepristone 200mg orally 24 hours before Misoprostol and the other receiving only Misoprostol- 25mcg vaginally, maximum 2 doses 6 hours apart. The study was conducted in a period of 1 year at Patan Academy of Health and Sciences (PAHS), Nepal, which included 124 primigravidas. Fifty percent of women who underwent induction with Mifepristone+Misoprostol combination had vaginal deliveries, while 45% had emergency Lower Segment Caesarean section (LSCS) and 5% had instrumental deliveries. But, only 39% had vaginal deliveries in Misoprostol only group, with 56% LSCS and 5% instrumental deliveries. P value in the mode of delivery was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Failed IOL was commonly seen in Misoprostol only group (48%). The rate of failed IOL was 21% in Mifepristone+Misoprostol group, which was statistically significant (p=0.026). The mean induction-delivery time interval, was lower in Mifepristone+Misoprostol group (18.55 hours) than in Misoprostol only group (19.9 hours). Use of Mifepristone prior to Misoprostol decreases the caesarean section rates due to failed induction of labor.

Paediatrics is a vital branch of medicine, focusing on the health and well-being of children from infancy to adolescence. Drawing from ancient Greek and Arab texts, paediatrics includes comprehensive care for new-borns, swaddling techniques, neonatal massage, safe sleeping habits, hygiene maintenance, breastfeeding, and weaning. It is deeply rooted in the historical context of these ancient societies. Abū Bakr Moḥammad Ibn Zakriyā Al-Rāzī and 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī were influential scholars in paediatrics, with Al-Rāzī renowned for his pioneering work in distinguishing diseases and congenital conditions. 'Alī Ibn Sahl Raban Al-Ṭabarī raised awareness about neglect of paediatric care and emphasized the importance of individualized medical needs for children, while Ibn Sina emphasized the importance of paediatric care. Ibn Rūshd's Kitābul Kulliyāt, a seminal work, emphasized the growth stages of children and the importance of hygiene in health care. Abū Al-Qāsim Khalaf Ibn 'Abbās Al-Zahrāwī, another notable figure, focused on surgical interventions targeting urinary diseases in children, emphasizing the need for specialized paediatric care to address these unique health challenges. This research paper seeks to emphasize the significant contributions made by distinguished Greek and Arab scholars who established paediatrics as an independent field and were instrumental in the advancement of treatments for infantile ailments.

Background: HIV/AIDS remains a major global health concern, with marginalized groups in Bangladesh, such as injecting drug users, experiencing higher infection rates. This study aims to assess the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Aim of the study: The aim of the study was to evaluate the awareness and prevention practices related to HIV/AIDS among pregnant women attending antenatal care in Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Department of Public Health and Informatics, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka, from January to May 2016, among 60 pregnant women attending antenatal care to assess HIV/AIDS awareness and prevention practices. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Verbal consent was obtained, and confidentiality maintained. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 16. Results: Among 60 pregnant women, most were aged 26-30 years, illiterate (57%), housewives (65%), and from joint families (71.7%). Awareness of HIV transmission was highest for sexual intercourse with infected partners (90%). Knowledge of mother-to-child transmission (6.7%) and prevention practices like condom use (20%) was low. Misconceptions existed about transmission via utensils (36.7%) and mosquito bites (28.3%). Media exposure was high for television (90%) and outdoor media (80%), with limited participation in HIV/AIDS programs (5%). Conclusion: Targeted antenatal education is needed to address HIV/AIDS awareness gaps, especially on mother-to-child transmission and condom use, among pregnant women in Bangladesh.