bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for exfoliation glaucoma - Current evidence and perspectives
Authors: Rao Aparna
Published: May 2024

Exfoliation syndrome (XFS) and exfoliation glaucoma (XFG) represent a complex matrix of ocular age-related neurodegenerative changes. Numerous decades of research on this disease entity have highlighted the unique clinical features of ocular protein-complex aggregates, which lead to tissue dysfunction of the ocular outflow channels, leading to irreversible optic nerve damage and glaucoma. While genetic studies have reported several genes associated with XFS and XFG, numerous studies have shown their association with common systemic diseases such as ischemic heart disease, cerebrovascular accidents, and hypertension. Environmental factors are also reported to play a role in the disease pathogenesis by epigenetic control of gene expression and partly explain the difference in the prevalence rates of the disease process. Despite the identification of possible triggers for the disease onset or for the development of glaucoma, the exact mechanisms or the role of several reported risk factors in disease pathogenesis remain a mystery. This review comprehensively evaluated the several risk factors in XFS and XFG while discussing the interactive interplay between the risk factors that determine the disease onset or phenotype in XFS and XFG.
Comparison of Hill-RBF 3.0 with Barrett Universal II, SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Haigis, and Holladay 1 to predict the accuracy of post-cataract surgery refractive outcomes in Indian eyes
Authors: Natung Tanie , Pandey Ishita , Nongrum Benjamin , Sekhose Ester K
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

To compare Hill-RBF 3.0 with Barrett Universal II (BU II), SRK/T, Hoffer Q, Haigis, and Holladay 1 in predicting the accuracy of post-cataract surgery refractive outcomes in Indian eyes.

Methods:

In this prospective, comparative, observational study, consecutive patients with uncomplicated age-related cataracts undergoing uneventful phacoemulsification with posterior chamber intraocular lens (IOL) implantation were included. The mean absolute errors (MAEs) and median absolute errors were used to determine the accuracy of predicted postoperative target refractions.

Results:

A total of 219 eyes of 173 patients were enrolled. Based on the axial lengths (AL), the patients were classified into: AL <22 mm (short), 22–24.5 mm (normal), and >24.5 mm (long). BU II exhibited the lowest MAE for normal ALs (0.2683 ± 0.2790 D) as well as for the entire population (0.2764 ± 0.2764 D). For the short ALs, Hill RBF 3.0 exhibited the lowest MAE (0.3268 ± 0.3268 D), while for the long ALs, SRK/T showed the lowest MAE (0.2823 ± 0.2642 D). BU II exhibited the highest percentage of eyes of 57.5%, 95.4%, and 98.6% within ±0.25, ±0.75, and ±1.0 D of postoperative target refractions respectively, whereas Hill RBF 3.0 had the highest percentages of eyes (88.1%) within ±0.5 D of postoperative target refraction.

Conclusion:

Hill-RBF 3.0 exhibited the least MAE for patients with short ALs, while BU II showed the least MAE for normal ALs as well as for the entire population and SRK/T for long ALs. This study is likely to aid surgeons in selecting the most appropriate IOL power formula, which thereby improves the refractive outcomes with utmost accuracy.
Guidelines for setting up low-vision and rehabilitation services in India
Authors: Senjam Suraj Singh , Tandon Radhika , Vashist Praveen , Mounica B , Gupta Vivek , Aggarwal Sneha
Published: May 2024

Low vision and blindness are increasing public health issues impacting individuals’ quality of life. During clinical low-vision services, vision rehabilitation is crucial for enhancing daily living skills and improving life quality. Low-vision and rehabilitation (LVR) services encompass comprehensive measures that aid visually disabled individuals in restoring function, autonomy, and social participation. Such holistic management requires a multidisciplinary approach, facilitating adaptation to environmental and sociocultural changes. However, the lack of awareness about the principles and practices of LVR services poses a major hindrance to setting up such a special clinic in the eye hospital. This article is about a consensus statement on the guidelines for establishing LVR services focusing on basic requirements, especially in low-resource countries. The present recommendation to set up an LVR clinic was made after group discussions and debates among various experts and stakeholders during the National Workshop on Strengthening Low-Vision and Rehabilitation Services organized at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi. The event was participated by many ophthalmologists and optometrists coming from across the country. The recommendations required at the tertiary level are outlined under the four headings: Human resources and training: two ophthalmologists, that is, a low vision specialist or a well-experienced in low vision and one who has received one-week orientation and training, one optometrist, one rehabilitation supervisor, and two rehabilitation assistants; Assessment equipment: basic screening and diagnostic; Assistive devices for low vision, including, digital and non-digital; Assistive devices for rehabilitation, and methods for records maintenance. The institution may not follow strictly the present guidelines but will provide an idea on LVR services initiation.
Clinical outcomes of a modified ophthalmic viscosurgical device-free implantable collamer lens implantation
Authors: Wang Chuqiao , Yu Qi , Zhou Qimin , Li Fang , Zhou Jibo
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

To investigate the efficacy and safety of a modified dual-incision ophthalmic viscosurgical device-free (OVD-free) method for implantable collamer lens (ICL) implantation in high myopic eyes.

Methods:

A total of 68 participants were enrolled in this prospective randomized clinical trial, including 33 in the OVD-free group and 35 in the standard group. Operation time and intraocular pressure (IOP) at 2 hours postoperatively were recorded. Visual acuity, refractive power, IOP, corneal endothelium parameters, and anterior segment parameters were assessed at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Postoperative subjective visual quality at 3 months was recorded through a Quality of Vision (QoV) questionnaire.

Results:

No significant differences in visual acuity, refractive outcomes, and corneal endothelial parameters were found, while the operation time was significantly shorter in the OVD-free group. Both groups showed a significant increase in IOP at 2 hours after surgery, but the increase in the OVD-free group was significantly smaller than that in the standard group. In addition, the frequency of ring-shaped dysphotopsia in the OVD-free group (15.15%) was significantly lower than that in the standard group (40%), and the severity and annoyance of this symptom were also significantly lower in the OVD-free group.

Conclusion:

The modified OVD-free ICL implantation is a safe, effective, and predictable method for myopia correction, which could be a better choice for short surgery time, better subjective visual perception, and low occurrence of IOP elevation.
Midperipheral mini-capsulorhexis as an additional step for safe phacoemulsification in white intumescent cataracts
Authors: Singh Kiranjit , Singh Sukarma , Herekar Sujay , Kaur Harmit , Singh Kunwar K , Jain Neha , Mittal Vikas
Published: May 2024

The present article describes a novel surgical technique of a primary mini-capsulorhexis in midperiphery to minimize surgical complications in white intumescent cataracts. Patients with white mature cataracts with a convex anterior capsule or swollen lens fibers were selected. An initial puncture was made 3–4 mm away from the center, in the midperipheral anterior capsule, with a conventional cystitome. A mini-capsulorhexis (2–2.5 mm) was created. Loose cortical matter and fluidic contents were aspirated to reduce the intralenticular pressure. Two cuts were made at the margin of the mini-capsulorhexis, and an adequately sized secondary rhexis was completed, after which phacoemulsification was done. A circular curvilinear capsulorhexis was successfully achieved in all cases, including those with a small pupil. Rhexis could be completed in a patient where an initial extension occurred due to head movement. This refined technique aims to enhance the safety and precision of capsulorhexis in intumescent cataracts, thereby reducing the risk of complications such as the Argentinian flag sign. Further exploration and validation of this approach through clinical trials are warranted to establish its efficacy and safety profile.
Psychological health among healthcare professionals during COVID-19 pandemic: An updated meta-analysis
Authors: Narapaka Pavan Kumar , Katikala Kalpana , Ponnala Varun Raj , Meenakshi Sarasa , Viswas Gopal , Singh Manisha , Venkateshan Raghul Gandhi , Dhingra Sameer
Published: May 2024

Background:

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic outbreak created a challenge to manage the health, especially the mental health of various care providers involved in treating the patients infected with the virus. Previously published literature has shown a significant effect of the pandemic on the psychological health of healthcare workers (HCWs) globally; so, this study aimed to describe the psychological health outcomes of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection among Indian HCWs.

Methods:

An extensive literature search was conducted in databases including PubMed and Google Scholar. The search was restricted from the COVID-19 outbreak until June 2022. Cross-sectional studies and other studies (telephonic interviews and survey-based studies) reported the prevalence of anxiety and depression among frontline HCWs since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. All the studies were critically evaluated by two individual authors in terms of screening and methodological quality evaluation. A total of 16 studies were included in the final meta-analysis.

Results:

The prevalence of depression among n = 12231 participants of 14 studies was 0.37 CI 95% [0.28–0.48]; the prevalence of anxiety among n = 9467 participants of 12 studies was 0.39 CI 95% [0.29–0.49]. The results of the overall meta-analysis indicate that 37% and 39% of HCWs in this study experienced mild-to-severe depression and anxiety, respectively. During the COVID-19 pandemic, a significant number of HCWs developed mental health issues, with a reported prevalence of depression (37%) and anxiety (39%).

Conclusion:

Frontline HCWs’ mental health should get full consideration during public health emergencies, screening should be actively conducted, and specific steps should be taken to lower the fear associated with the risk of infections.
Attitudes and awareness of refractive surgery among medical undergraduates
Authors: Bansal Yashi , Bandhu Seema Dutt , Rahman Mohammad Hifz Ur , Garg Sahil , Pasricha Yukta
Published: May 2024

Background:

Refractive errors are common vision disorders globally. Advancements in refractive surgeries have provided new options for vision correction. However, uptake depends on awareness and personal attitudes.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the awareness, attitudes, and preferences regarding refractive procedures among medical undergraduates.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among 133 medical students. A prevalidated questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics, spectacles/contact lens use, awareness of procedures, willingness to undergo surgery, and recommend it to others. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests.

Results:

Most students (92.5%) were aware of refractive surgeries. Spectacles were used by 70.7% and contact lenses by 57.9%. Most users were comfortable with their method. Less than half (47.4%) planned to undergo refractive surgery themselves, although 63.2% would recommend it to family/friends. Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) was the preferred choice (44.4%). Those willing to undergo surgery were more likely to advise it to others (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This study found a high awareness but lower personal acceptance of refractive surgery among medical students. LASIK was the most preferred procedure. Updated education about advances in refractive correction is needed in the medical curriculum. This can enable future physicians to better counsel patients regarding vision correction options.
A case–control study of tear film functions in patients with unilateral pterygium at a Tertiary Care Center in Marathwada
Authors: Awargaonkar Amarnath Vijaykumar , Janrao Sagar Babasaheb , Kuril Surajkumar Shobhalal
Published: May 2024

Context:

Pterygium is a very common ocular surface disorder. Tear film dysfunctions have been reported in subjects with pterygium.

Aim:

We aim to study the correlation between pterygium and dry eye disease in patients with unilateral pterygium.

Settings and Design:

A case–control study of patients with unilateral pterygium was undertaken after ethical clearance from the institutional ethics committee.

Subjects and Methods:

Eighty-seven patients with unilateral pterygium were included in the study. Tear film break-up time (TBUT), Rose Bengal staining (RBS), and Schirmer’s test 1 were performed in both eyes of the patients. Test results were compared with contralateral normal eye of the same patient.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Data were analyzed using t-test and Chi-square test. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

The tear film function parameters, namely Schirmer 1, TBUT, and RBS in the study group, were statistically different as compared to the control group. The mean of TBUT was 8.19 ± 1.87 s in pterygium eyes and 11.83 ± 1.69 s in contralateral normal eyes. The mean of Schirmer’s 1 was 10.65 ± 3.69 mm in pterygium eyes and 16.37 ± 4.82 mm in contralateral eyes with no pterygium.

Conclusion:

There was a statistically significant difference in the values of tear film function between eyes with pterygium and contralateral normal eyes.
The illusion of posterior lenticonus in a patient of anterior lenticonus
Authors: Rani Deeksha , Rathod Aishwarya , Khokhar Sudarshan , Pujari Amar
Published: May 2024

The rare occurrence of both anterior and posterior lenticonus in association with Alport’s syndrome has been reported. However, the diagnosis of posterior lenticonus in these cases was based solely on slit-lamp examination, casting doubt on its accuracy. This is the first report to use multimodal anterior segment imaging to confirm the absence of posterior lenticonus, despite the illusion of its presence through slit-lamp examination.
Clinicoetiological profile of congenital cataracts in children: A single-center experience
Authors: Cornelius Leema Pauline , Kanagaraj Jered Livinston , Elango Neeraj
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Congenital cataract is the most common treatable cause of blindness during infancy and is responsible for 5%–20% of blindness in children worldwide.

Materials and Methods:

It was a retrospective descriptive study analyzing the causes of congenital cataracts in infants referred to the pediatric neurology department of a tertiary care institution, in South India.

Results:

Thirty-two infants with congenital cataracts underwent evaluation. Thirteen (40.6%) were <6 months and 19 (59.4%) beyond 6 months of age. White reflex in eyes was the primary complaint in 14 (43.8%), not looking at the caregiver in 10 (31.3%), squint in 5 (15.6%), and involuntary movement of eyeballs in 3 (9.4%) patients. Cataracts were bilateral in 26 (81.3%) and unilateral in 6 (18.7%) patients. The associated features were developmental delay in 25 (78.1%), microcephaly in 15 (46.9%), seizures in 6 (18.8%), cardiac disease in 6 (18.8%), focal deficit in 3 (9.4%), and deafness in 2 (6.3%). Neuroimaging revealed basal ganglia calcifications in 6 (18.7%), cerebral atrophy in 3 (9.4%), gliosis in parieto-occipital regions and hyperintensities in frontal regions in 2 (6.3%) children each, and hydrocephalus, Dandy–Walker malformation, thin corpus callosum, and hypomyelination in one (3.1%) each. The etiological causes were confirmed rubella syndrome in 7 (21.9%), probable rubella syndrome in 3 (9.4%), confirmed cytomegalovirus in 6 (18.8%), probable cytomegalovirus in 7 (21.9%), herpes virus infection in 1 (3.1%), combined infections in 2 (6.3%), Down syndrome in 3 (9.4%), Lowe syndrome in 1 (3.1%), and idiopathic in 2 (6.3%) patients.

Conclusion:

Intrauterine infections, especially cytomegaloviral and rubella infections, are the common causes for congenital cataracts in infants. Vaccination against rubella, knowledge about intrauterine infections, mode of spread, and prevention are the needs of the hour.
Comparative analysis of Dry Eye Questionnaire 5 and Ocular Surface Disease Index in assessing dry eye symptoms
Authors: Kadiri Bhavya , Vivekanand Undrakonda , Lobo Sarita RJ
Published: May 2024

Aim:

To compare the performance of the Dry Eye Questionnaire (DEQ-5) questionnaire with the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire and check its application in large screening camps or nonclinic-based settings.

Study Designs:

Cross-sectional observation study.

Purpose:

To evaluate the DEQ 5 questionnaire by comparing its performance to that of OSDI in assessing dry eye.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study comparing the performance of two questionnaires was conducted. Demographic information was collected. The Cronbach’s alpha reliability and correlation were determined using the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results:

The reliability of both the DEQ 5 and OSDI was 0.52 and 0.78, respectively. There was a statistically significant correlation between both questionnaires. (r = 0.6, P < 0.050).

Conclusion:

DEQ-5 questionnaire can serve as a useful tool for evaluating and monitoring in various dry eye settings in comparison to OSDI.
Factors influencing the selection of spectacle frames and lenses – Knowledge, attitude, and practice study
Authors: Christina Mini , Mahasampath Gowri , Peter John Victor , Peter Jayanthi
Published: May 2024

Background:

This study evaluated the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of patients toward the selection of frames and glasses and factors that influence selection options.

Patients and Methods:

In this questionnaire-based study comprising closed-end questions, consenting patients aged over 18 years were recruited. The association between family income and age on KAP was analyzed using Fisher’s exact test.

Results:

The mean (standard deviation) age of the cohort (n = 200, 97 males) was 44.6 ± 16.2 years. A majority (85%) stated that spectacles improved vision; 9% believed it would make eyes weaker. Only 39% were aware of alternate options for refractive error. The durability of the frame was a key factor in selecting frames in 47%; 44% stated they would change spectacles every year. Expensive frames, celebrity endorsement, fashion, and branding influenced choice in 35%, 13.5%, 12%, and 7.5% of the respondents, respectively. Higher annual family income (>Rs. 50,000) when compared with low income (<50,000), was associated with awareness of alternate options for refractive error (P < 0.001) and preference for celebrity-endorsed frames (P = 0.007). There was no association between income and choice of expensive frames (P = 0.16). A higher proportion of older patients (≥40 years) preferred to change glasses only on doctor’s recommendations when compared with younger patients (P = 0.006).

Conclusion:

Knowledge on alternate options for refractive error was poor. Celebrity endorsement, costly, fashionable, or branded frames did not appear to play an influential role in the choice of frames. High annual income families preferred celebrity-endorsed frames and were more aware of alternative options for refractive error.
The effect of couple supportive counseling on self-efficacy in women with insulin-treated gestational diabetes: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Rostampour Sahar , Erfanian Araghvanian Fatemeh , Kordi Masoumeh , Akhlaghi Farideh , Asghari Nekah Seyyed Mohsen , Shakeri Mohammad Taghi
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Gestational diabetes is the most common medical complication and a common metabolic disorder during pregnancy. Increasing people's self-efficacy is one of the best ways to control this disease. As there is a lag of intervention in this regard, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of couple supportive counseling on self-efficacy in women with insulin-treated gestational diabetes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this randomized clinical trial, 64 women with gestational diabetes who referred to diabetes clinic of Mashhad Ommolbanin Hospital were divided into intervention and control groups through block randomization during 2019. Their gestational age was in 26–30 weeks. For the couples in the intervention group, three couple supportive counseling session was held. Each session lasted 1 h and was held one time per week. The instruments were diabetes self-efficacy questionnaire, fasting and 2-h postprandial checklist and Cassidy social support, which were assessed before and 4 weeks after intervention in both groups. Data was analyzed by SPSS software version 25 through Mann–Whitney and Wilcoxon test. P values of < 0.05 were reported to be significant.

RESULTS:

In the preintervention, the diabetes self-efficacy score had no significant difference in the intervention (30/6 ± 38/50) and control groups (09/8 ± 56/51) (P = 515/0). However, in the postintervention, the diabetes self-efficacy score was significantly higher in the intervention group (58/6 ± 41/71) compared to the control group (15/7 ± 31/51) (P < 001/0). Also, before the intervention, there was no significant difference between the intervention (30/2 ± 72/10) and control group (87/1 ± 63/11) (P = 137/0) regarding social support. However, after the intervention, there was a significant difference between the intervention and control groups (879/0 ± 53/13, 03/2 ± 41/11, P < 0/001 respectively). Also, data analysis showed a significant correlation between self-efficacy and social support (r = 0.451, P < 0.001), self-efficacy and fasting blood sugar (P < 0.001, r = -0.577), and 2 h post prandial (r = -0.778, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Couple supportive counseling leads to increased self-efficacy and social support in pregnant women with gestational diabetes. Therefore, it is recommended to use this counseling as an effective method in the management of diabetic pregnant women during their prenatal care to have a healthier pregnancy.
Understanding the inclination of South Indian nursing graduates in using mobile learning applications
Authors: Milton Cynthia , Subramaniam Aruna
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clinical-based mobile learning courses have great demand among the nursing graduates as learners look for possibilities to update skills. The present study explores the feasibility, familiarity, utility, and attitude of nursing graduates of South India toward mobile learning applications (m-apps).

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

An online-based cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted in May 2021 among the South Indian nursing graduates of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, using a questionnaire consisting 49 items categorized under six sections with items related to socio-demographic information; m-app usage; online learning experience; preference in using m-apps for learning purposes before COVID-19 and during COVID-19; students' engagement through e-learning; and anxiety related to online assessment. Descriptive and inferential (ANOVA, Chi-square, and t test) statistical data analysis were done using SPSS version 23.

RESULTS:

A total of 447 student nurses responded. The result shows that most of them, 96% (432) used android phones and 94% (422) owned a mobile. Age was highly influencing mobile learning application (m-learning apps) usage; students of less than 20 years of age used applications more frequently and possessed more educational applications. Majority of them, 84% (377) of them had started using m-learning apps only after COVID. 57.7% (249) commonly used m-learning apps for acquiring nursing knowledge resources, nursing exam preparatory, and drug resources. Students rated high for the interactive nature of these m-learning apps, while abundant learning materials and usage with ease were rated as other attractive features. Sixty-six percent (305) had mostly downloaded these apps from Google Play Store.

CONCLUSION:

The findings would help the m-learning application developers to offer customize solutions to address learning gaps that prevail among the South Indian nursing graduates and help with sustainable growth.
Online learning basketball using social media to enhance learners' performance of some fundamental skills
Authors: Ahmed Taghread Ahmed Elsayed , Seleem Heba Ali Ibrahim , Elsayed Ghada Mohamed Youssef , Housen Nour Taha Ebrahem , Sofy Naglaa Mohamed Roby , Elshltawy Sara Nashat Housny
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Online learning is the newest and most popular form of distance education today; within the past decade it has had a major impact on education. The aim of the present study was to know the effect of online learning basketball using social media on learners' performance of some fundamental skills in basketball and determine difference between online learning and in-person learning, knowing which one is better than the other.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present experimental study was conducted in Sports Academy for Basketball in Zagazig-Egypt during March–April 2022. Thirty two female junior basketball players volunteered to participate in the study from Sports Academy for Basketball (age: 16.23 ± 0.66 years; body height: 164.5 ± 3.32 cm; body mass: 65.25 ± 3.22 kg). They were divided into two equally sized experimental groups, online learning (ONL) group (n = 16) and in-person learning (INL) group (n = 16), to perform (15) educational sessions for (5) weeks, (3) sessions per week, and the session time was 90 minutes. Junior basketball players were assessed before and after five-week training period. Data were collected by Basketball Passing test, Dribbling Skill test, Lay Up Shoot test, Speed Spot Shooting, and Free-Throw Shooting test. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 22 software using the descriptive statistical test. The level of significance was set at P ≤0.05.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the two groups made significant improvements in all variables but INL group had significantly greater improvements than ONL group. The percentage of improvement ranged from 13% to 223% for INL group versus 8% to 158% for ONL group.

CONCLUSION:

We conclude that in-person basketball learning was better than online learning basketball. Therefore, teachers and trainers must rely primarily on in-person learning and not rely on distance learning, especially with regard to learning motor skills, except in emergency cases.
Influence of self-regulated learning on the academic procrastination of college students
Authors: Brahma Bhadrasing , Saikia Polee
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Self-regulated learning is one of the growing aspects in the field of educational psychology. It plays a very important role in the academic success of the students. In addition, the failure of self-regulation resulted in academic procrastination. Academic procrastination is recurring behavior of students. The objective of the present study is to find out the levels of self-regulated learning, levels of academic procrastination, and the influence of self-regulated learning on the academic procrastination of the students.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

The present study was a Descriptive survey and questionnaire-based. The study was performed in the Kamrup (M) colleges of Assam affiliated with Gauhati University. The sample of the present study was 142 college students both boys and girls. The data were collected both offline and online.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS USED:

To run the statistical test, SPSS was used. Z score, percentage, Chi-square, correlation, and regression analyses were performed to test the null hypotheses and find out the objectives.

RESULT:

The result indicates that college students are self-regulated learners as all the students fall under the extremely high level of self-regulated learning to average level of self-regulated learning. Again they are also an academic procrastinator. It was also indicated that there is a significant negative correlation between self-regulated learning and academic procrastination. Also, regression analysis indicated that self-regulated learning is a strong predictor of academic procrastination of college students.

CONCLUSION:

The level of students' self-regulated learning and academic procrastination must be pointed out in order to ensure the student's academic success.
Fertility desire among HIV-positive individuals in the Chinese sociocultural context: A qualitative study
Authors: Guo Yingwu , Chongsuvivatwong Virasakdi , Songwathana Praneed , Liu Jun , Wichaidit Wit
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

China's recent change from a one-child policy to a two-child policy has urged many couples/families to consider having a child or an additional child. However, little is known about such fertility desire among heterosexual couples with at least one human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive partner. The objective of this qualitative study was to describe fertility desire and its motivating factors and barriers among people living with HIV (PLHIV).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews in 31 patients at an antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinic in Kunming, China, from October to December 2020. We included only patients in a sexually active heterosexual relationship with no more than one child. Participants gave verbal informed consent before participation. Interview recordings were transcribed verbatim, translated into English, and then analyzed using thematic analysis.

RESULTS:

Participants who reported fertility desire were mostly male, while participants who reported no fertility desire were mostly female. Study participants reported motivating factors and barriers that were identical to HIV-negative persons such as 1) social norms, 2) Chinese sociocultural factors, 3) the government's two-child policy, and 4) the financial burden of having children. However, study participants also reported motivating factors and barriers unique to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive individuals that included 1) the availability of ART and prevention of mother-to-child HIV transmission services, 2) health-related concerns, 3) stigma and discrimination against PLHIV, and 4) the additional cost of child-rearing when HIV-positive.

CONCLUSIONS:

The study findings highlighted major areas of concern for relevant stakeholders. The development of PLHIV-specific health policy should consider the PLHIV-specific motivating factors and barriers reported in this study. However, social desirability and lack of generalizability should also be considered in the interpretation of this study's findings.
The effects of cognitive behavioural therapy on depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem in public health students, Thailand
Authors: Changklang Papassara , Ranteh Onggan
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

This study aimed to investigate the effect of group cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem in public health students at the University in Southern Thailand.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study employed a quasi-experimental, one-group, and pre-test -post-test design. Purposive sampling was employed to include 31 students, selected from those with screening indicating mild to moderate depression. While 28 of them (90.3%) were female, three (9.7%) were male. Their age range was 18-21 years, averaging 19.5 years. The instruments were the Thai translation of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21) and the Thai version of the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES), which were evaluated and produced high validity and reliability results. Data was collected through online questionnaires. A pre-test and a post-test were utilized to measure the participants' depression, anxiety, stress, and self-esteem before and after participating in a group CBT, comprising eight sessions in two months.

RESULTS:

Revealed significant improvements in depression (P = .001), anxiety (P = .040), and stress (P = .002), while self-esteem (P = .465, >.05) was not significant.

CONCLUSION:

Group CBT sessions were effective at relieving depression, anxiety, and stress, but not self-esteem. Accordingly, further studies might consider these results and expand on this topic by broadening the population to different majors.
A cross-sectional study to assess the magnitude of depression among young adults at selected higher educational institutions in Tamil Nadu, India: A study protocol
Authors: Kosalram Kalpana , Elizabeth Jacintha , Kumar Dhasarathi
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

One in ten young adults aged 20 to 24 years was diagnosed as suffering from DSM-IV disorder with associated impairment. Depression is a major challenge to public health around the world. The main aim of this project is to estimate the burden of depression among young adults and this is the first kind of study in nature that tends to establish a depression prevention resource center for young adults.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive cross-sectional study will be conducted among 6922 young adults. A simple random sampling strategy will be used to obtain the study sample. The semi-structured tool will be used to obtain the result. Descriptive statistics and frequency percentages will be determined for categorical variables. Mean, median, and range will be calculated along with standard deviations (SD) and interquartile range (IQR). Percentage prevalence will be calculated for each categorical variable with a 95% confidence interval (CI). The P-value of <0.05 will be considered as statistically significant. A semi-structured questionnaire was developed and the questionnaires were translated into Tamil (for local relevancy), and back translated into English. Data regarding socio-demographic and mental health-related information, such as coping ability, problem-solving, personal history, academic performance, and treatment history will be collected.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION:

The study was authorized by the Institutional Review Board (IRB), School of Public Health, SRMIST, and Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, with the IEC Protocol Number: P0/2020/10/02. The ethics committee evaluated and rated the methods and tools used to assess depression among young adults.
Visceral adiposity index and lipid accumulation product index: The promising role in assessing cardiometabolic risk in non-obese patients of PCOS
Authors: Bir Aritri , Ghosh Arindam , Chowdhury Sourav
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

The combination of metabolic disorders like obesity, insulin resistance, reduced glucose tolerance, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia poses an increased risk of cardiovascular events in patients with PCOS which is closely related to increased visceral fat accumulation. This study explored the noninvasive adiposity markers like Visceral Adiposity Index (VAI) and Lipid Accumulation Product (LAP) levels in non-obese PCOS patients and their associations with clinico-metabolic parameters.

METHODS AND MATERIALS:

The case–control study was conducted with a total of 66 PCOS cases and 40 healthy controls (aged 18–35). Their lipid profile, fasting insulin levels and homeostatic model of insulin resistance index, VAI, and LAP scores were estimated. The cases were divided into three groups depending on the presence of cardiovascular risk factors. The predictive power of LAP and VAI with respect to cardiovascular outcomes was assessed by ROC curves.

RESULTS:

The VAI and LAP scores have shown a significant positive correlation with markers of metabolic syndrome. When multiple risk factors are considered simultaneously, the cutoff value of VAI is 2.59 with 91% sensitivity and 80% specificity, and that of the LAP score is 40.2 with 91% sensitivity and 83% specificity. The area under curves for VAI was 0.935 and for LAP was 0.945 considering the presence of at least three risk factors.

CONCLUSION:

The study concluded that with a definitive cutoff value, VAI and LAP were inexpensive, simple, and effective screening tools for cardiometabolic risk assessment in non-obese women with PCOS and can be an effective way to determine long-term cardiovascular outcomes and prevent them.
The efficacy of cognitive-motor rehabilitation on cognitive functions and behavioral symptoms of attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children: Specification of near-transfer and far-transfer effects in comparison to medication
Authors: Azami Saeed , Alimadadi Zeynab , Ahmadi Ameneh , Hemmati Fatemeh , Mirmohammad Mahdieh , Mashayekhi Reza
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

This study aimed to investigate and compare the efficacy of cognitive-motor rehabilitation (CMR) with methylphenidate on cognitive functions and behavioral symptoms of children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and specified the near-transfer and far-transfer effects.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The research was semiexperimental with posttest and follow-up assessments, in a single-blind design. Forty-eight boys with ADHD, aged 9–12, were selected conveniently regarding the inclusion/exclusion criteria, matched base on severity and Intelligence quotient (IQ) and were randomly assigned to CMR (n = 16), methylphenidate medication (MED, n = 16), and placebo CMR groups (PCMR, n = 16). CMR and PCMR received 20 3-h training sessions, and the MED group received 20 or 30 mg/day methylphenidate. Tower of London (TOL), Swanson, Nolan, and Pelham, Version IV Scale (SNAP-IV), Wechsler's digit span and mathematic subscales, dictation test, and restricted academic situation scale (RASS) were completed at posttest and follow-up. The data were analyzed by repeated measures multivariate analysis of variance.

RESULTS:

CMR outperformed PCMR on forward digit span, backward digit span, ToL score at both posttest, and follow-up (P < 0.05). CMR scored lower than MED on ADHD-PI and ADHD-C at both posttest and follow-up (P < 0.05). Moreover, CMR outperformed MED on dictation at both assessment phases (P < 0.01) and RASS at the follow-up phase (P < 0.05). CMR outperformed PCMR on mathematics at post-test (P = 0.038) and also, in dictation and RASS, at both post-test (P < 0.001) and follow-up (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

CMR Improves near-transfer cognitive functions and behavior symptoms of ADHD as much as MED, but only CMR has more generalizable and endurable improvement on complex Efs and academic performance (far-transfer effects).
Relationships between spiritual health and perceived stress with breastfeeding adequacy in mothers with infants aged 1–6 months
Authors: Rasaei Leila , Tehrani Tahmine Dadkhah , Heidari Zeinab
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Previous studies have shown that psycho-spiritual state of mothers may have significant effects on their breastfeeding. The most common cause of nonexclusive breastfeeding is inadequate breastfeeding; therefore, this study examined the relationship between spiritual health and perceived stress with breastfeeding adequacy in mothers with infants aged 1–6 months.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational study was performed on 186 mothers with infants aged 1–6 months, who referred to the health centers in Dorud city of Lorestan province, Iran, in 2021, which were selected based on cluster sampling. Data were collected through four questionnaires including demographic–fertility, spiritual health, perceived stress, and breastfeeding adequacy. Data was analyzed by Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 22 using descriptive and analytical statistics.

RESULTS:

The mean ± standard deviation (SD) values of spiritual health, perceived stress, and breastfeeding adequacy were 99.59 ± 12.96, 23.8 ± 72.19, and 55.67 ± 7.67, respectively. There was a significant positive relationship between spiritual health and breastfeeding adequacy (P < 0.001, r = 0.268). In addition, there was a significant negative relationship between perceived stress and breastfeeding adequacy (P = 0.002, r = −0.231).

CONCLUSION:

Breastfeeding adequacy has a significant positive relationship with spiritual health and a significant negative relationship with perceived stress. Since infants are one of the most vulnerable groups and breastfeeding is the best way to support their health and reduce infant mortality rates, breastfeeding adequacy can be improved by reducing stress and promoting spiritual health.
Designing, implementing, and evaluating the process of action plan management at Isfahan Medical School
Authors: Shahidi Shahrzad , Avizhgan Maryam , Shojaei Behnoosh
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Planning, organizing, and coordinating are inevitable in pursuing the faculty and university's goals, which cannot be achieved without having desirable goals, prioritization, and AP (action plan). This study designed, implemented, and evaluated APM (Action plan management) to increase the quality of educational, research, and management programs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A developmental study was conducted at Isfahan Medical School in 2019. The participants were selected by census sampling, and the target population comprised all deputies (8 ones) and departments (33 ones). This study was carried out in seven steps with a combined method of reviewing literature, document analysis, focus group, and questionnaire. The steps were forming the APM committee, regulating a planned process, designing and issuing the faculty's general policies, using expertise and getting feedback, monitoring the program, final reporting, and the poll.

RESULTS:

The response rate of the departments was 90.2%; the highest and lowest comprehensiveness scores of AP were 100% and 38%, and the highest and lowest performance monitoring scores were 100% and 25%. The mean and standard deviation of comprehensiveness and monitoring were 76 ± 0.1% and 69 ± 0.4%, 82 ± 0.1% and 73 ± 0.1%, and 72 ± 0.2% and 63 ± 0.4% in the basic science departments, clinical departments, and deputies, respectively. The highest agreement (4.8 ± 0.4) was related to the items “AP is as one of the important functions of management, looking to the future” and “AP is effective in the development of any organization.”

CONCLUSION:

Regulating a designed process with a clear guideline, developing 24 general policies for the faculty, forming a committee to monitor the AP, and evaluating and giving feedback to the units were the most important results of this study. Also, the selected departments were introduced, and the progress report was presented to the faculty councils. Further studies were proposed to develop long-term plans, and information management was suggested to measure the progress of different units over time according to the defined goals.
The effect of educational intervention on the quality of life of family caregivers of hemodialysis patients: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sotoudeh Reza , Alavi Mousa
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Family caregivers of hemodialysis patients experience various physical, psychological, social, economic, and spiritual problems that reduce their quality of life. The present study aimed to determine the effect of a family-centered education program on the quality of life of family caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a randomized controlled trial that was performed on 70 caregivers of patients undergoing hemodialysis in the medical centers of Hazrate Ali Asghar and Hazrate Zahraye Marzieh in Isfahan. Caregivers were randomly divided into experimental and control groups, and the experimental group received an eight-session family-centered education program. Data were collected using the Quality of Life Scale (QOLS)-short form immediately after and 1 month after the intervention. Data analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 18 and analysis of variance and covariance.

RESULTS:

The results showed that both experimental and control groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic information and there was no significant difference between them in this regard. Analysis of data on quality of life and its four domains showed that the mean scores of quality of life (P = 0.089) and its four domains including physical health (P = 0.367), mental health (P = 0.429), community relations (P = 0.132), and environmental health (P = 0.232) increased significantly immediately after and 1 month after the intervention (P < 0.001 in all cases).

CONCLUSION:

Educational programs can improve the quality of life of family caregivers of hemodialysis patients. Therefore, it is recommended that programs be developed and evaluated in various studies in the future.
Efficacy of Personalized-Computerized Inhibitory Training program (PCIT) combined with exposure and response prevention on treatment outcomes in patients with contamination obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Dehkordi Fatemeh Jafarian , Farani Abbas Ramezani , Gharraee Banafsheh , Shati Mohsen , Ashouri Ahmad
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) including exposure and response prevention (ERP) is the most effective and first-line treatment for obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD). However, a significant number of people leave it or do not respond to it effectively. The present study aimed to examine the efficacy of personalized-computerized inhibitory training (P-CIT) program combined with ERP on treatment outcomes in patients with contamination OCD.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present research method was based on an experimental design with pre-test, post-test, and the two intervention and control groups. Thirty patients with contamination OCD were randomly assigned to the two groups of intervention and control based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The measures used in this study were Yale-Brown Scale, Stroop task, World Health Organization's Quality of Life Questionnaire, Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5, and Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales -21.

RESULTS:

The results showed a significant reduction in severity of symptoms (F = 0.75, P < 001) and severity of anxiety (F = 0.75, P < 001) for the intervention group. Furthermore, task control (F = 12.44, P < 001), mental health (F = 28.32, P < 001), physical health (F = 2.48, P < 001), and overall quality of life (F = 0.19, P = 001) improved in the intervention group after the intervention.

CONCLUSION:

When P-CIT is exerted along with ERP, it may enhance inhibition of compulsions and increase the efficacy of ERP through improved task control, thereby resulting in reduced symptom severity and improved treatment outcomes in patients with contamination OCD.