bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behaviors of adult stomach cancer: a retrospective study of 95 cases
Authors: G Dong Richard , J Harris Meilan
Published: November 2020

Stomach cancer mostly affects older people and the average age of people when they are diagnosed is 69 years old. About 6 of every 10 people diagnosed with stomach cancer each year are 95 or older. Further, gastric cancer is an aggressive disease with nonspecific early symptoms. Its incidence and prognosis in young patients has shown considerable variability. To better understand gastric in these young patients, we revised 95 young patients aged <30 diagnosed with gastric cancer at MD Anderson Center from January 2008 through February 2013, including age at diagnosis, sex, tumor histology, ethnicity and type of treatment to demonstrate its specific clinical and pathological characteristics. The presented data show that 96.6% of tumor tissue histology was adenocarcinoma, male/female ratio was 1.1:1 and no significant relationship to the tobacco or alcohol used. Furthermore, the median survival time of these 95 patients was 5.8 months, 71.4% with late diagnosis and 41% has gastric family history. Further 49.6% with symptoms of ulcer that do not improve under adequate medical management. Our concluded is that adult gastric cancer exhibits different tumor behavior with delay diagnosis that affects the prognosis of the tumor.
Multifactorial inheritance of imminent preeclampsia: a case-control study
Authors: N. Williams Paula , P. Gupte Sanjay
Published: November 2020

Pre-eclampsia is a major cause of maternal mortality and morbidity, preterm birth, perinatal death, and intrauterine growth restriction. Incidence of hypertensive disordersin India is found to be 10.08 % as observed through the data collected by the National. Eclampsia Registry (NER) (11,266 out of 1,11,725 deliveries) over the past 3 years with 2,554 patients out of this presenting with eclampsia. A Case-control study conducted to investigate the critical role of familial preeclampsia in Pune of India. The women participate in this study who are primigravida with age <25-year-old.
Human papilloma virus vaccines awareness among female medical and dental undergraduate students
Authors: Sharma Vasudha , Bachhel Rachna , Singh Navyug Raj
Published: November 2020

Background: Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is the major risk factor for cervical cancer. Pap smear is the commonest technique for early screening and diagnosis of cervical cancer.Methods: Cross sectional study was carried out at a medical and dental institution of Punjab, India, among 84 medical and dental female undergraduate students, falling in the age group of 18-25 years using a validated and guided questionnaire. Goal of the study was to raise the attention of the underrated and unaware agenda of prevention of cervical carcinoma by available vaccines.Results: 96.42%, 25%, population was aware of HPV vaccination in 3rd, 2nd, medical students respectively and 60.71% in 2nd year dental students. 8.33% of the whole population (n=84) was vaccinated against HPV. The main reasons of not taking the vaccination were that the students had not heard of such a vaccine followed by the cost of the vaccine.Conclusions: Medical and dental undergraduates are not adequately aware about the HPV vaccine and are not vaccinated in large number.
Prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients on metformin therapy in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: A. Gomathi , K. Keerthiga
Published: November 2020

Background: The objective of the study was to estimate the prevalence of vitamin B12 deficiency and presence of peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients on metformin treatment.Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in Department of Biochemistry and Medicine in a tertiary care teaching hospital in south India. Type 2 diabetes mellitus patients diagnosed based on World Health Organization (WHO) criteria treated with metformin for more than 6 months were included in the study. B12 levels were estimated and DNS scoring, vibration perception test and 10 gm Semmes-Weinstein monofilament test done.Results: A total of 55 participants were identified. Most of them were on 1500 mg of metformin once a day in divided dose. In this study maximum number of participants are in the age group of 50-70 years. Peripheral neuropathy is seen in 43.9% of persons with normal B12 levels and 28.5% of persons with low B12 levels. A Chi square test showed a chi square statistic value of 1.8221 with a p value of 0.312 which is not significant. Univariate analysis showed vitamin B12 deficient patients are of significantly higher age (63 years versus 57 years p=0.01) and with higher duration of treatment (9 years versus 6 years p=0.01).Conclusions: Prolonged metformin therapy is associated with deficiency of vitamin B12. The prevalence of B12 deficiency among diabetic patients on metformin was found to be 25.45%. Routine B12 estimation and correction of low B12 levels will be beneficial to these patients. Earlier initiation of B12 in patients on metformin may prevent the onset of neurological damage.
Convalescent plasma therapy for COVID-19: a review of old therapy against new disease
Authors: Chapagain Utshav , Raunair Gajendra Prasad , Chapagain Kumud , Verma Rakesh
Published: November 2020

Currently, novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a big threat to global health which has revived the potential beneficial effect of ancient convalescent plasma therapy (CPT). This review was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness and adverse drug reactions associated with convalescent plasma therapy in COVID-19 patients, based on articles available to date. PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane library, and Hinari databases were searched until 15th September 2020. Every country across the globe today is encountered with a virus that has impacted millions of lives today and for generations to come. Nonetheless recommended antiviral drugs and vaccines are not evident and specified for novel coronavirus disease. This is now very well known that scientists and medical experts across the world are vigilant about recommending the use of CPT and call it an investigational treatment that may help in assisting recovery. The World health organization has perpetuated that there is not enough proof that plasma therapy works in treating those fighting the novel coronavirus. Therefore, convalescent plasma therapy is a feasible and immediate option for alleviating the impact of the disease. Comparing the effectiveness of convalescent plasma therapy with SARS-CoV, MERS-CoV, and COVID-19 would help in deriving proper outcomes for COVID-19 infected cases.
Effect of COVID-19 on doctor-patient relationship
Authors: Nwoga Hope O. , Ajuba Miriam O. , Ezeoke Uche E.
Published: November 2020

Background: The doctor-patient relationship has been linked to patient satisfaction, treatment adherence and outcome. It remains the cornerstone of medical practice though may be affected in this era of COVID-19 pandemic. The objective of the study was to determine the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on the doctor-patient relationship.Methods: The study was a cross-sectional study conducted in a tertiary health facility in Enugu State South-East Nigeria. It involved all the doctors working in the hospital as at the time of data collection. Patients that attended the general out-patient clinic of the hospital were selected using convenience sampling. One hundred and eighty six (186) doctors and 155 patients participated in the study. A similarly structured self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from both the doctors and the patients.Results: There was disparity in some of the studied aspect of the doctor-patient relationship as reported by the doctors and the patients. The prominent being the social distancing practice which almost all the patients (91.6%) said that it has affected their relationship with their doctors while only about half of the doctors (52.7%) agreed to this assertion. However both parties agreed that the level of physical examination have reduced to the barest minimum.Conclusions: The present COVID-19 pandemic have affected the doctor-patient relationship adversely.
Prevalence of iron deficiency anaemia among microcytic anaemic premenopausal patients at tertiary care hospital, Karachi
Authors: Memon Ghulam Abbas , Khan Tooba Jawed , Abbas Shabnam , Shaikh Ghulam Abbas , Shah Nusrat , Kayani Hammad Afzal , Habib Muhammad Atif
Published: November 2020

Background: Iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) is the prevalent form of anaemia which has become a major public health problem, globally. Women in the reproductive age group (15–49 years of age) are at increased risk, especially in the South Asian population. It is of paramount importance to identify these micronutrient deficiencies in this age group as it adversely affects the birth outcomes, but the mother and the child at risk of morbidity and mortality during pregnancy.  Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Civil Hospital, Karachi for 12 months i.e. October, 2018 to December, 2019. Data was prospectively collected from patients after obtaining written informed consent. 377 patients were included who met the diagnostic criteria. Descriptive statistics were used and qualitative data analysis; mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentages were respectively calculated. Effect modifiers were controlled through stratification to see the effect of these on the outcome variable. For post-stratification, the chi-square test was applied with a p value of≤0.05.Results: A total of 377 patients with microcytic anaemia were enrolled from Civil Hospital, Karachi. Mean age, duration of anaemia, haemoglobin, height, weight and BMI in our study was 29.28±6.14 years, 1.41±0.26 months, 9.27±0.86 mg/dl, 26.72±1.56 kg/m2, 138±7.28 cm and 78.7±9.87 kg. Out of 377 patients with microcytic anaemia, 144 (38.2%) and 233 (61.8%) had and did not have iron deficiency anaemia.  Conclusions: IDA is frequently found in microcytic anaemia patients. Thus, it is important to screen premenopausal in female patients for iron deficiency presenting with microcytic anaemia to prevent adverse outcomes.
Utilization and associated factors of sexual and reproductive health services among adolescents of Kathmandu district, Nepal
Authors: Pokhrel Sushma , Nepal Susmita , Mali Prajita , Baskota Swechhya , Aryal Richa , Thapa Alisha , Chaudhary Vidya , Malla Nabina
Published: November 2020

Background: There seems to be huge differences in availability and utilization of Sexual and Reproductive Health information and services despite of taking decisive step by Government of Nepal. The main aim of the study is to access the utilization and factors associated with SRH services among adolescents.  Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among 406 adolescent students of grade 11 and 12 which were taken as census in selected higher secondary schools of Kathmandu District through simple random sampling technique. The utilization of SRH services was assessed by semi-structured validated and pretested questionnaire which includes socio-demographic, utilization of sexual health and reproductive health (SRH) services and sexual behaviours. Data were entered and analyzed in SPSS version 20 where Chi-square tests is done to identify the associated factors with utilization SRH services utilization.Results: Overall utilization in last 12 months was 17.2% and was found to be strongly associated with availability of services within 30 minutes of walking distance (p value=0.001), interaction with parents (p-value: 0.02) and with sexually being active within 12 months (p value=0.001). Utilization of SRH services was slightly higher among females (19.8%) compared to males (15.3%). Most utilized services were services related to menstrual problems and family planning including ECP. This study concludes that fear of family and society hinders the utilization of SRH services.Conclusions: As adolescent fear to talk and seek for the services, due to the social cultural norms and stigma attached to SRH services, utilization among adolescent of selected colleges in Kathmandu is low.
The effect of the implementation active birth technique using hypnobirthing accelerated the progress of the first stage of labor among intrapartum mother
Authors: Darma Ika Yulia , Abdillah Nurul , Idaman Meldafia , Morika Honesty Diana
Published: November 2020

Background: Problems in childbirth, including old labor, which is one of the causes of death for mothers and newborns, is still widely found in Indonesia. Factors that influence labor to take longer are abnormal presentation, inadequate contractions, birth canal abnormalities, multiple pregnancies and anemia. To deal with prolonged labor, the UK has introduced active birth techniques. Hypnobirthing is one of the active birth methods that can be used during the first stage of labor. This research purposes to study the effect of the application of the active birth technique using hypnobirthing on the progress of the first stage of labor in the mother.Methods: This type of research was quasi experimental with the post-test only design approach. This research was conducted from 15 May to 18 August 2020, in 4 independent practice midwives (BPM) Padang City in 2020. Data were collected through observation sheets using non-probability sampling techniques, namely purposive sampling with a total sample of 15 samples. Data were collected using observation sheets. Data were analysed using univariate and bivariate analysis using the dependent T-test.Results: The results showed that the mean labor progress using hypnobirthing was 3.67 and SD±1.49 with a minimum value of 1 and a maximum of 6. Based on the statistical test, the p value was 0.000 (p<0.05).Conclusions: There is the effect of the application of active birth techniques using hypnobirthing on the progress of stage I labor in maternal labor.
Prevalence and factors associated with depression among the elderly in a rural community
Authors: Mishra Sandhya , Mishra Amit Nandan
Published: November 2020

Background: Senior citizen elderly or old age consists of ages close to or exceeding the average life span of human beings. The limit of old age cannot be defined precisely because it does not have the same meaning in all societies by the middle of this century, there could be 100 million elderly people living in the India according to United Nations World population prospects report. Depression is the common psychiatric disorder among elderly. The aim of the study was to estimate the prevalence of Depression among elderly in a rural population. Design of the study was a cross sectional study conducted among 450 elderly populations in rural community of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.Methods: A validated geriatric depression scale (Geriatric depression scale (GDS) 30) was used to assess their depression status and the various demographic details, socio economic status and living arrangements were analyzed to see for any association with depression. Statistical analysis was chi square test and odds ratio.Results: Among the 450 elderly subjects studied. The prevalence of depression among elderly males was found to be 48% and among females 56% and the difference in the prevalence of depression among males and females was found to be statistically significance (p=0.03).Conclusions: The results confirmed that there is a high prevalence of depression among the elderly population. There is a need to improve geriatrics health care services combined with proper monitoring and evaluation.
Sensori-motor recovery in post-stroke shoulder pain: a correlation study
Authors: Mukherjee Ushnish , Kundu Sourav , Gulati Rachit , Mandal Pankaj Kumar
Published: November 2020

Background: The prevalence of pain in affected shoulder among post-stroke patients ranges from 34% to 84%. Numerous theories exist to explain the patho-mechanics behind development of Post-stroke shoulder pain, but its relationship with the sensori-motor recovery of the affected limb is still controversial. This study was conducted to detect the correlation, if any, between post-stroke shoulder pain and sensori-motor recovery of the affected upper limb.  Methods: This observational longitudinal study was conducted on 73 patients of both sexes within the age group of 45-65 years having presentation of post-stroke (duration<6weeks) shoulder pain. Pain intensity was recorded in numerical rating scale (NRS). Sensorimotor recovery of the affected limb was assessed by Fugl- Meyer assessment scale of upper extremity (FMA-UE). Data were collected at the baseline (visit1), at 6 weeks (visit 2), 12 weeks (visit 3) and at the end of the study i.e., 24 weeks (visit 4).  Results: Statistically significant negative correlations were found between severity of pain (assessed with NRS) and sensory-motor recovery (assessed with FMA-UE) on each visit with correlation coefficients (Spearman rho, r) being r=-0.890, p=0.000 on visit1, r=-0.685, p=0.000 on visit2, r=-0.629, p=0.000 on visit3 and r=-0.458, p=0.000 on visit 4.Conclusions: Post-stroke shoulder pain plays a significant negative role in sensori-motor recovery of the affected upper limb requiring early intervention.
Epidemiological profile of candidiasis in HIV/AIDS patients in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Dhakad Megh S. , Kaur Ravinder , Goyal Ritu , Bhalla Preena , Dewan Richa
Published: November 2020

Background: Clinical research in fungal infections is largely a neglected area in health care settings in India. Candida species cause diseases ranging from mucosal infections to systemic mycoses depending on host’s immune status. Aim of this study was to evaluate the clinico-epidemiological profile of candidiasis, and their correlation with an immunological profile in HIV/AIDS patients.Methods: Clinical details and investigations of 200 symptomatic, confirmed HIV-positive patients, suspected of having candidiasis were recorded and analyzed. Relevant clinical samples depending on the organ system involved were collected and subjected to direct microscopy, culture isolation and serology. Identification and speciation of the isolates was done by biochemical methods as per standard recommended procedures. CD4-count was determined by flow cytometry using Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorter Count system.Results: Patients ranged from 17-65 years with a mean age of 33.83±9.07 years. Most common clinical presentations were seen to be white oral patches (82%), weight loss (79%), fever (67%), loss of appetite (53%), headache (51.5%), cough (38.5%) and diarrhea (30%).  Gastrointestinal system (35%) was the most commonly involved system. The CD4-counts ranged from 16-1033 cells/μl. 93 (46.5%) patients had CD4-counts <200 cells/μl, while CD4-count <100 cells/μl was seen in 40 (20%) and CD4-count <50 cells/μl in 20 (10%). Candidiasis was detected in 60% of the patients. Yeasts isolated were C. albicans (82.51%), C. tropicalis (6.29%), C. krusei (4.89%), C. parapsilosis (3.49%), and C. glabrata (2.79%).Conclusions: C. albicans was predominant species and presence of oral candidiasis is a matter of concern. Early and accurate diagnosis of candidiasis is one of the keys helps for the success of effective HIV/AIDS disease management.
Physical and social challenges of youth during lockdown in Mizoram: a COVID lockdown study
Authors: Lianhmingthangi Catherine , Harikrishnan U. , Sailo Grace Lalhlupuii
Published: November 2020

Background: Young people experience the COVID-19 pandemic differently and their new found ‘leisure’ time can pose several challenges in their physical and social life. This paper incorporates findings from an online survey that was conducted to probe into the physical and social challenges that disrupted the daily life of youth across gender during the lockdown in Mizoram, India.Methods: The study adopted a cross sectional descriptive research design and findings are based on an online survey using Google forms questionnaire administered through different social networking platforms among youth aged between 18-35 years. All respondents are permanent residents of Mizoram, India and the study was carried out during the first and second phases of lockdown across the country.Results: Physical challenges such as abuse, body weakness, laziness and appetite issues were found to be more among female youth while social challenges such as communication and socialization; and inability to maintain social distancing were found to be higher among male youth. Gender is found to have a highly significant relationship with laziness (r=0.069), increased appetite (r=0.086) and decreased appetite (r=0.122) and negative significant relationship with increased substance use (r=-0.183).Conclusions: The study found numerous challenges of youth in Mizoram during lockdown. These crisis calls for intervention of various researchers, policy makers and those working in the field of youth health and development.
A comparative study between calcium intake and low bone density among women (19-35 year) in urban area of Hyderabad, India
Authors: Syeda Uzma Nabeela , Syeda Nasreen
Published: November 2020

Background: This paper is aimed at assessment of bone health in women aged between 19-35 years in the urban area leading a sedentary lifestyle. The objective of the study was to assess the bone density among the adult women and identify their risk of developing osteoporosis and to associate risk factors that may predispose them to osteoporosis.Methods: The methodology involved assessment of their anthropometric measurements and calculating Body mass index to identify obese and non-obese participants. A semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire was framed to know the calcium intake of the diet along with the other nutrients and foods that favour and hinder the absorption of calcium was also studied along with their frequency of consumption. BMD test on all 51 participants is done and the T- score obtained compared with the WHO classification.Results: It was observed that 35% of the participants were having osteopenia, a condition where bones become weak than normal and may predispose to osteoporosis. The calcium content of the diet found to be lower than the RDA which is significant at p<0.05. Correlation analysis showed a weak negative correlation between the two variables i.e., calcium intake and bone mineral density rs=-0.03, p>0.05. Other factors that can contribute to the low bone mineral density was lack of exercise, obesity, genetic inheritance, H/o PCOS, hypothyroidism, consumption of coffee and carbonated beverages.Conclusions: Thus, it is concluded that these women are at risk of developing osteoporosis so dietary modification and change in lifestyle is necessary.
Knowledge, attitude and practice towards scientific research among undergraduate students of a medical college in Delhi
Authors: Singh Sunil Kumar , Mishra Suruchi , Khokhar Anita , Bharti Aakanksha , Sharma Manila
Published: November 2020

Background: Scientific research forms an important foundation for producing doctors with an understanding of evidence-based medicine. Medical education in India over a period has largely remained unchanged with a very low emphasis on research and publication. Objective of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice towards scientific research among undergraduate students of a medical college in Delhi, India.Methods: A cross sectional study was planned among 240 undergraduate students from five semesters of medical college in New Delhi. The questionnaire consisted of questions about identification data, knowledge, attitude and practices of scientific research. Data was analyzed by SPSS software version 21.0 and for qualitative data analysis Chi-square test was used.Results: Mean age of study subjects was 20.68±1.87 years and more than half (59.6%) of them were males and (40.4%) were females. Out of 240 participants, only (13.5%) had excellent knowledge about scientific research. Majority (89.6%) of them felt that research work should be a part of the medical curriculum. About one fourth (22.9%) of study participants had done a scientific research. Age of study participants and better knowledge were found significant predictors of conducting research among study participants.Conclusions: This study concludes that only few study participants had excellent knowledge and practice scientific research but majority of them had positive attitude towards research. So, there is a need to increase awareness about scientific research from an early level in the curriculum among study population.
A study on awareness on tuberculosis among urban slum population of Hyderabad
Authors: A. Sai Ram , M. N. Rama Krishna , Singh C. Sunil Pal
Published: November 2020

Background: Tuberculosis a major public health problem in India with highest burden of cases. India accounts for about 24% of global prevalence, 23% of the global incidence cases and 21% of global TB deaths. Irregular and inappropriate treatment of persons with active TB, unawareness about TB symptoms and treatment course, illiteracy, may be the major hurdles for TB eradication.Methods: A cross sectional, community based study was conducted in urban slum dwellers (n=153). Data compilation and analysis: All the data collected was entered and analyzed with MS excel software 2007 and Epi info 3.5.3. All tests were considered significant at p<0.05 level.Results: 18.3% told that cough+expectoration+evening rise of temperature+weight loss are the signs and symptoms of TB. 55.5% know that it spreads through cough and sneezing mixed with air. 23.5% knows blood examination, sputum examination, x-ray is the mode of diagnosis of TB.Conclusions: Literacy plays major role in creating awareness on TB.
A study on occupational health hazards and morbidity profile of the bus drivers and conductors working in government bus depots of South Kolkata
Authors: Roy Prasenjit , Pal Jayita
Published: November 2020

Background: Health has always been closely linked with occupation. Occupational hazards have become more prominent in the post-industrial societies and includes a never-ending list of diseases. The current study was an attempt to explore the physical health hazards and their possible risk factors among the bus drivers and conductors employed in south Kolkata bus depots under the West Bengal transport corporation.  Methods: A cross-sectional study had been conducted in two governmental bus depots under Calcutta state transport corporation (WBTC) of south Kolkata, West Bengal. All the bus drivers and conductors were interviewed after taking informed consent with a pretested predesigned semi-structured questionnaire.  Results: The major physical health problems among the drivers were related to musculoskeletal system (37.8%) and followed by endocrinal system (26.66%), cardiovascular system (17.78%), anorectal system (10%), eye (7.78%), occupational injuries (7.78%), liver and biliary system (6.66%). Among the conductors, majority (42.02%) had musculoskeletal problem, followed by endocrinal (34.09%), cardiovascular (27.27%), respiratory (15.91%), dermatological (12.5%), gastro-intestinal (9.10%), eye (9.10%), orthopaedic (7.95%) and liver-biliary problem (6.82%). Multivariate analyses revealed that participants aged less than 44 years and who served their occupation for less than 6 years had higher odds of not suffering from musculoskeletal morbidities and those who were aged less than 44 years and who served their occupation for less than 6 years had higher odds of low morbidities.Conclusions: Preplacement and periodic health check-ups at frequent intervals with supportive health promotional activities can uplift the physical health of the study population.
Knowledge and attitude towards post-partum insertion of intra uterine devices among pregnant women attending antenatal clinic at a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Vyas Himanshu , T. Deviga , . Mamta
Published: November 2020

Background: Post-partum insertion of intra uterine devices (PPIUCD) increased the accessibility for women following childbirth. In India, the most women in the first year postpartum have an unmet need for family planning due to lack of information and fear of complications. The aim of the study is to assess the knowledge and attitude regarding postpartum insertion of intra uterine devices, among antenatal mothers.Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional survey design. The antenatal mothers, gestational age above 20weeks, registered at AIIMS Jodhpur were selected by purposive sampling technique. A total of 183 subjects were recruited for the data collection. A structured knowledge questionnaire and 5 point Likert scale was used to assess the knowledge and attitude among regarding PPIUCD respectively. Informed consent was taken from each participant prior to data collection and descriptive and inferential statistics were employed to analyze the data.Results: Majority (57.4%) of the subjects had fair knowledge, 24.6% had poor knowledge, only 18% with good knowledge and none of them had excellent in knowledge regarding PPIUCD. Majority (64.5%) had neutral attitude, 33.3% had positive attitude and 2.2% had negative attitude towards PPIUCD. A positive correlation found between the knowledge and attitude (r=0.509) regarding PPIUCD. Pregnant women’s education was found to be significantly associated with knowledge and attitude regarding PPIUCD.Conclusions: The findings underline that majority of the antenatal mothers having lack of knowledge and less positive attitude regarding PPIUCD. Hence there is a need to hence the comprehensive PPIUCD literacy and highly positive attitude among antenatal mothers in order to meet the family planning needs.
Effect of lockdown due to COVID-19 pandemic on mental health of final year students of Maharashtra
Authors: Gupta Roli R. , Vaishnao Lohit S. , Shinde Shivani , Singh Ishani , Mishra Tanaya , Sharma Khushboo
Published: November 2020

Background: A pandemic is the worldwide spread of a new disease and currently COVID‑19 has become a major medical crisis. The worldwide rapid increase of infected cases has created a sense of uncertainty and anxiety about the situations and upcoming exams period. It also leads to stress amongst the students. Objectives of the study was to evaluate and analyse the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among final year students of Maharashtra using DASS-21.Methods: It was an online survey which was conducted using Google Forms with link sent using Whatsapp. A standard DASS-21 questionnaire was used for the study. The survey questionnaire would take around 3-4 min to complete. Total 324 responses were received by the stipulated time.Results: The study showed that the engineering final year students are more depressed than others. 34 engineering and 26 medical students were suffering from anxiety. The relationship between anxiety level and course was statistically significant. On depression scale 47% participants were suffering from mild to moderate stress.Conclusions: Index survey suggested that the pandemic affected the preparation of the respondents to a great extent and affected their mental status negatively.
Prevalence and risk factors of overweight and obesity among MBBS students
Authors: Baruah Chetanjit , Gupta Kajal , Luthra Megha
Published: November 2020

Background: Obesity is a life style disease.  During college years students living away from home, are faced with many different food choices.  So, this study was done to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity and its risk factors among MBBS students.Methods: A cross sectional study was conducted among 318 MBBS students of Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Assam from June to July 2017 by purposive sampling using a pre-designed, semi-structured questionnaire.Results: Prevalence of overweight and obesity was found to be 16.7% and 2.5%  and higher among students who were non-vegetaranian, had irregular dietary habit, consume junk foods and  carbonated drinks,  used Motorized vehicle as a mode of transport, sleep  >8 hrs per day and  had family history of obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus and heart disease.Conclusions: There is need to increase awareness among the students in order to reduce the future burden of obesity associated chronic diseases.
Corona virus epidemiology: a review article
Authors: Sharma Kamlesh , Sharma Ram Lal , Sharma Vanita
Published: November 2020

Corona virus disease-2019 is an infectious disease caused by SARS-Co-2. The disease started in December 2019 in Wuhan, China resulting in pandemic. Common symptoms are fever, cough and shortness of breath. Loss of apetite, anosmia, conjunctivitis and diarrhoea are fewer common symptoms. The disease is mild in most people but may progress to pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome in elderly patients and those with co-morbidities. The infection is spread from one person to another via respiratory droplets or contact with infected droplets. Preventive measures include frequent and thorough hand washing, maintaining distance from potential transmitter and not touching one’s face. Mask is recommended to suspects and to their caregivers. Presently there is no vaccine or specific treatment for COVID-19. Management involves treatment of symptoms, supportive care. World health organisation declared the 2019-2020 CoV outbreak a pandemic and a Public Health Emergency of International concern with death rate of 3.4%.
Auto-Control Technique Using Gradient Method Based on Radial Basis Function Neural Networks to Control of an Activated Sludge Process of Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Lemita Abdallah , Boulahbel Sebti , Kahla Sami , Sedraoui Moussa
Published: November 2020

Dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration is a key variable in the activated sludge wastewater treatment processes. In this paper, an auto control strategy based on Euler method and gradient method with radial basis function (RBF) neural networks (NNs) is proposed to solve the DO concentration control problem in an activated sludge process of wastewater treatment. The control purpose is to maintain the dissolved oxygen concentration in the aerated tank for having the substrate concentration within the standard limits established by legislation of wastewater treatment. For that reason, a new proposed control strategy based on gradient descent method and RBF neural network has been used. Compared with RBF neural network PI control, the obtained results show the effectiveness in terms of both transient and steady performances of proposed control method for dissolved oxygen control in the activated sludge wastewater treatment processes.
Fuzzy Logic Controlled Based Ant-Lion Optimization Hybridization for Economic Power Dispatch
Authors: Kotapuri Mercy Rosalina , Samala Rajesh Kumar
Published: November 2020

The demand on the power system rising more rapidly is causing to increase the power system size and capacity. There is a need of interconnection of various generating stations to meet the increased load demand. Economical unit commitment is necessary for plant operation with the advancement in power system integration. The Economical Power Dispatch (EPD) is to find the most favourable combination of generating systems output powers which reduce the fuel cost by satisfying all system constraints. This research involves the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) has been hybridized with Ant-Lion Optimization (ALO) algorithm for EPD. By using this new hybrid technique, minimization of total operating cost by economically dispatch the power to meet the required load and also minimization of system total losses by optimum allocation of DG units were done. Fuel cost function and demand on system are modeled by fuzzy membership functions. The ALO is used to obtain the schedule the committed generating unit’s outputs so as to meet the required load demand. This proposed FLC based ALO technique executed with MATLAB software and applied on IEEE-30 system. Effectiveness of this projected algorithm is determined and evaluated with standalone techniques like conventional ALO, ALO-PSO algorithms.
Self Tuning Filter Based Fuzzy Logic Controller for Active Power Filter
Authors: Faiza Aouiouat A. , Morsli Sebaa , Tayeb Allaoui
Published: November 2020

The performance of the Active Power Filter (APF) depends on the identification strategy of the reference currents and their control. Among the control strategies proposed in the literature to identifying the reference currents, that based on Self Tuning Filter (STF) which allows extracting directly the voltage and current fundamental components in the α-β axis at high performances, without any Phase Locked Loop (PLL). The performance of STF is function of its proportional parameter. However, there is no technique existed in the literature to dimensioning the proportional parameter of the STF filter. This paper presents an improved method for identifying the reference harmonic currents to be generated by the APF, based on STF for the extraction of harmonic currents and equipped with a Fuzzy Logic Corrector (FLC) in order to improve the waveform of the electric lines currents. The FLC adjust in real time the proportional parameter of the STF filter. The proposed FLC-STF regulator allows to having an optimal extraction of the harmonic currents. The conventional hysteresis method was used for the current control technique to generate the switching sequences of the static switches of the APF voltage inverter. The obtained simulation results, performed under the MATLAB/Simulink® environment on a system feeding a non-linear load, show good performance.
Path Planning for Chainable Non-holonomic System Based on Iterative Learning Control
Authors: Li Liang , Zhao Renhao , Li Chunlei
Published: November 2020

Non-holonomic path planning is to solve the two point boundary value problem under constraints. Since it is offline and open-loop, the path planning cannot compensate for the disturbances and eliminate the errors. To solve the problems, this paper puts forward an iterative learning control algorithm that adjusts the control parameters of the path planner online through the multiple iterative computations of the target configuration error equation, under the initial configuration error and model error, and thus enhancing the accuracy of non-holonomic system path planning. Then, a simulation experiment on path planning was carried out for a chainable three-joint, non-holonomic manipulator. The results show that the iterative learning controller can eliminate the interference of initial configuration error and model error, such that each joint can move to the target configuration.
Research and Practice on the Training Mode of Targeted Poverty
Alleviation-oriented Practice for College Students
Authors: Zhang Yu
Published: November 2020

Taking the research and implementation of the training mode of the students who practice and support teaching as the breakthrough point in the process of implementing the educational poverty alleviation, this paper tries to realize the multi-dimensional objectives and requirements such as poverty alleviation content, objectives, training mode, specific implementation path of poverty alleviation, evaluation, system guarantee, etc. in the process of implementing the educational poverty alleviation work in vocational colleges in Western regions by means of supporting teaching through practice. Construct the educational characteristics of higher education that targeted poverty alleviation and talent training are coordinated and consistent.
Research on the Conditions of “Right Protection Fee” in State
Compensation
Authors: Wang Ying
Published: November 2020

according to the State Compensation Law of the people’s Republic of China implemented in 1995, state compensation includes administrative compensation and criminal compensation. State compensation mainly refers to that when the state organ or staffs of the state organ bring personal rights or property rights damage to citizens, legal persons and other organizations due to the exercise of their functions and powers, they should perform the obligation of compensation and give corresponding compensation to the victims. At the same time, in the process of the victims’ application for compensation, the determination of the “right protection fee” such as “the loss of work fee” has not been clearly defined in the state compensation law. Therefore, in the actual legal cases, the conditions for the determination of the right protection fee in the state compensation causes widespread social disputes. Thus, it is of practical significance to carry out the following analysis on the determination of rights protection fees in state compensation.
Interpretation of the Connotation of Weaving and Embroidery of
Traditional Clothing of Blue Clothes Zhuang
Authors: Wu Qiyi
Published: November 2020

Zhuang nationality clothing patterns are colorful and rich in connotation, including flowers, plants, trees, insects, fish, birds and animals. Among the numerous patterns and patterns, some widely used totems have different applications in different parts of traditional clothing. From the perspective of the traditional clothes of blue clothes Zhuang nationality, the Southern Zhuang nationality and the northern one live in different areas, so different national aesthetic constructs different embroidery art characteristics. The plain Zhuang embroidery is mostly humble embroidery, and the mountain Zhuang in the northern Guangxi mountain area is mostly skillful embroidery, which are well-made, showing the classic national characteristics. In this paper, through the analysis of the traditional clothing embroidery pattern of blue clothing Zhuang, the cultural connotation and value of related clothing decoration are studied.
Discussion on the Strategy of Improving Professional Quality for
Vocational Students in the New Era
Authors: Dong Xiujuan
Published: November 2020

with the rapid development of the global economy and the diversification of social structure, the division of work in present social sectors is becoming more and more detailed. The state has put forward higher standards for professional talents in terms of professional quality and employability. With the increasingly fierce competition for employment in society, the situation of higher vocational education is becoming more and more severe. How to change the employment concept and reform the training mode of vocational talents, as well as improve the vocational quality and employability of higher vocational students, has become an urgent problem for educators to explore and solve.
Current Status and Prospects of Research on Gamification in the Field
of Basic Education in China
Authors: Yan Xu
Published: November 2020

With the continuous upgrading of educational theories, people have realized that enhancing students’ interest in learning is the best way to improve students’ learning efficiency, and gamified learning methods are one of the most effective and innovative teaching methods. Development is very important. This article mainly analyzes the current situation of gamified learning in the field of basic education in our country, and puts forward some teaching reform suggestions in response to the problems in actual teaching, hoping to promote the development of gamified learning.
Application of Block-chain Technology in the Development of
Functional Agriculture
Authors: Luo Yang
Published: November 2020

with the continuous growth of national economic income and the gradual improvement of health consciousness, the public not only put forward higher requirements for the type, quality and safety of agricultural products, but also began to pay more attention to the health function of agricultural products. Therefore, on the basis of ensuring the supply of high quality and safe agricultural products, through the development of ecological high value agriculture, further planting and cultivating agricultural products with full health care function has become the development direction of agriculture in the future.However, due to the influence of soil conditions, climate environment, management reputation and other factors, the asymmetric information hidden behind the current functional agriculture in China directly affects the healthy development of functional agriculture. Applying block chain technology to the development of functional agriculture can not only innovate the new mode of agricultural economic development, but also effectively eliminate all kinds of obstacles to development under information asymmetry, thus accelerating the development of functional agriculture.
The Internet Era and the Innovation of Higher Vocational English Education
Authors: Wu Quansheng
Published: November 2020

Because of the relatively weak student foundation, English education has always been a difficult point in higher vocational education. In the Internet age, teachers should keep up with the trend of the times, grasp the convenience brought by the Internet, and strive to apply excellent online teaching resources to actual English teaching, so as to increase students’ interest in learning and stimulate their enthusiasm for learning. This article combines the current situation of higher vocational English teaching and analyzes innovative strategies to improve the quality of higher vocational English education, hoping to provide some useful suggestions for the reform of higher vocational English education.
Teachers, Studens, Homework
Authors: Pu Chunli
Published: November 2020

The function of homework is to meet teaching purpose and learning goal. From teachers’ and students’ point of view, this thesis refers some advice on how to assign and grade students homework. It has some reference value.
Growth of mixed cancer cell population – in silico the size matters
Authors: Kłóś Adam , Płonka Przemysław M.
Published: November 2020

Cancer heterogeneity is still underexplored and difficult to investigate. The whole network of factors engaged in tumor growth makes clinical cases, as well as the in vivo and in vitro experiments of limited use in terms of understanding cancer heterogeneity. Our idea was to start from scratch and focus on the simplest distinctive feature in a heterogeneous tumor, namely the cell size. To exclude any other factors, we created a rudimentary cellular automata model of mixed cancer culture with two lines of different cell sizes. We tested the model with various sets of parameters to explore how the cell size affects cancer co-culture growth. It turned out that the cell size plays a crucial role in in silico heterogeneous tumor growth. The dominance of bigger cells decreases the number of cells in the overall mixed cancer population. In contrast, the small cells increase the total number of cells, even without a parallel enlargement of the macroscopic tumor size. The predominance of the smaller cells is particularly visible in overcrowded conditions. Although our model was primarily designed for verification of experimental hypothesis and as a mean for better understanding of the cancer heterogeneity itself, it is as well of some practical value. Our findings can affect today’s practice of estimating tumor growth based on its macroscopic size and may propose a new approach to interpreting histological data. After modifications, the model may serve to test other factors affecting the growth of mixed populations of cancer cells differing in size.
PANDEMIA DA COVID-19: ALGO DE NOVO NO TRABALHO DA ENFERMEIRA?
Authors: De Melo Cristina Maria Meira , Mussi Fernanda Carneiro , Dos Santos Tatiane Araújo , Moraes Mariana De Almeida
Published: November 2020

Objetivo: refletir sobre o trabalho da enfermeira e do enfermeiro hoje, ano 2020, cujo registro na história será marcado pela pandemia da Covid-19. Método: reflexão teórico-filosófica. Resultados: a Covid-19 expõe para a sociedade brasileira os múltiplos desafios do trabalho da(o) enfermeira(o). O sofrimento no trabalho, se existente antes da pandemia, agora é potencializado pela singularidade do novo contexto, na presença do agente desconhecido, invisível, que ameaça e pode ser mortal. A pandemia do novo coronavírus demonstra que os desafios para que o trabalho da enfermeira(o) seja valorizado social e economicamente são maiores do que se imaginava. Conclusão: a história e o contexto do trabalho na pandemia demonstra que é a solidariedade entre a “classe-que-vive-do-trabalho” que pode ser o amálgama imprescindível para o enfrentamento da Covid-19 e do desmonte dos direitos daquelas(es) que trabalham.

Descritores: Trabalho. Enfermagem. Covid-19.