bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diversity in the Clinical Course and Outcome of COVID-19 in Patients with Different Inborn Errors of Immunity can be Associated with the Type of Error
Authors: Salemi Negin , Shojaie Behrokh , Bolourinejad Paria , Sherkat Roya , Zamanifar Aryana , Ghaedrahmati Farhoodeh , Azizi Mahdieh , Aria Hamid
Published: November 2024

Background:

The relationship between inborn errors of immunity (IEIs) and COVID-19 severity and incidence rates remains unclear due to limited and diverse data. This study aimed to address this gap by identifying specific IEIs associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19 or a predisposition to severe disease before vaccination.

Materials and Methods:

Data were collected from the medical records of 15 patients with various IEIs, supplemented by interviews with individuals from an IEIs registry who had experienced COVID-19 before vaccination.

Results:

Among the participants, only three patients (20%) experienced severe-prolonged COVID-19. Notably, this severity was predominantly observed in two male patients with Bruton’s disease (BD) and one female patient with autosomal recessive hypogammaglobinemia. Moderate and severe COVID-19 cases were equally distributed (13.33%). In the female subgroup, one patient with common variable immunodeficiency and another with combined immunodeficiency experienced moderate and severe COVID-19, respectively. Conversely, both male patients with moderate and severe COVID-19 had BD.

Conclusion:

Despite the limited number of severe cases, the absence of cytokine storm manifestation suggests potential protective mechanisms, possibly due to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy and inherent deficiencies within cytokine-producing cells (B and T cells). While IEIs may not be significant risk factors for COVID-19, they offer promising avenues for further research into therapeutic strategies targeting specific immune system components to mitigate severe COVID-19.
Lingual Actinomycosis Mimicking Lingual Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC)
Authors: Meidani Mohsen , Saffar Hana , Shafiee Nahid , Ebrahimi Parvaneh , Moradi Maryam
Published: November 2024

Actinomycosis is an infection caused by Actinomyces israelii and mainly affects cervicofacial areas. In women, other regions, such as the chest, abdomen, and pelvic cavity can involve actinomycosis. Actinomycosis lesions in the oral cavity can cause pain, swelling, induration, pus discharge, and discomfort similar to other benign or malignant pathologies. This condition can mimic lingual cancer, such as squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), which is highly invasive with a poor prognosis. It is necessary to distinguish actinomycosis from SCC and other malignancies to choose the proper treatment. The current study presents a patient with a suspicious lingual mass for SCC diagnosed as actinomycosis after partial glossectomy and pathological studies.
Investigating the Effect of Galbanic Acid on Lipin-1 and Lipin-2 Genes in Fatty Liver Cells with Palmitate
Authors: Musavi Hadis , Iraie Reza , Mohammadi Maryam , Barartabar Zeinab , Yazdi Mohammad , Bagheri Abouzar , Khonakdar-Tarsi Abbas
Published: November 2024

Background:

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is related to lipid accumulation and inflammation. Considering the role of lipin-1 and lipin-2 in fat homeostasis and inflammation, this study aimed to explore the effect of galbanic acid (Gal) and resveratrol (RSV) on alterations in the gene expression levels and protein abundance of lipin-1 and lipin-2 in HepG2 liver cells lipid-enriched with palmitate (Pal).

Materials and Methods:

HepG2 cells were subjected to different amounts of Gal and RSV for 24 hours in the presence of Pal to induce lipid accumulation. The RT-PCR method was employed to assess the expression of lipin-1 and lipin-2 genes, while protein levels were evaluated by western blot analysis. Lipid accumulation was determined qualitatively and semi-quantitatively using the oil-red staining technique.

Results:

Gal treatment increased lipin-1 and lipin-2 gene expression (P < 0.05). In contrast, the groups treated with RSV did not show a substantial variance in the expression levels of the two genes (P > 0.05). In the groups treated with Gal/RSV, the intensity of lipin-2 protein bands was higher compared to the Pal group (P > 0.01); however, the intensity of lipin-1 protein bands was not significantly different (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

Gal, a coumarin compound, significantly increased the expression of lipin-1 and lipin-2 in HepG2 cells treated with Pal. Consequently, this research suggests gal as a novel strategy for regulating fat homeostasis in HepG2 cells.
TNF-α-Induced NF-κB Alter the Methylation Status of Some Stemness Genes in HT-29 Human Colon Cancer Cell
Authors: Zand Hamid , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Cheraghpour Makan , Alipour Meysam , Sedaghat Fatemeh
Published: November 2024

Background:

Acquisition of stem-like properties requires overcoming the epigenetic barrier of differentiation and re-expression of several genes involved in stemness and the cell cycle. DNA methylation is the classic epigenetic mechanism for de/differentiation. The writers and erasers of DNA methylation are not site-specific enzymes for altering specific gene methylation. Thus, the aim of the present study is investigation of the in vitro interaction of ten eleven translocations (TETs) with nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) in hypomethylation of stemness genes.

Materials and Methods:

This experimental study was performed on HT-29 cells as human colorectal cancer cell lines. The interaction between TETs and DNA-methyltransferases 3 beta (DNMT3s) with p65 was achieved by coimmunoprecipitation. TETs were knocked down using siRNA, and the efficacy was analyzed by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. The promoter methylation status of the target genes (NANOG, MYC) was determined by the methylation-sensitive high-resolution melting method.

Results:

TET3 and DNMT3b functionally interacted with p65 in samples through 25 ng/ml TNF-α treatment for 48 h in HT-29 cells. Transfection with siRNA significantly decreased the expression of TET enzymes after 72 h. Interestingly, treatment with TET siRNAs enhanced methylation of MYC and NANOG genes in samples with 25 ng/ml TNF-α treatment for 72 h in HT-29 cells. Moreover, methylation effects of TET3 were stronger than those of TET1 and TET2.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that inflammation may alter the methylation status of genes required for stemness and predispose the cells to neoplastic alterations.
Antimicrobial Feature of Nanoparticles in the Antibiotic Resistance Era: From Mechanism to Application
Authors: Salmani-Zarchi Hamed , Mousavi-Sagharchi Seyyed Mohammad Amin , Sepahdoost Nafise , Ranjbar-Jamalabadi Mahdieh , Gross Jeffrey D. , Jooya Hossein , Samadi Ali
Published: November 2024

The growth of nanoscale sciences enables us to define and design new methods and materials for a better life. Health and disease prevention are the main issues in the human lifespan. Some nanoparticles (NPs) have antimicrobial properties that make them useful in many applications. In recent years, NPs have been used as antibiotics to overcome drug resistance or as drug carriers with antimicrobial features. They can also serve as antimicrobial coatings for implants in different body areas. The antimicrobial feature of NPs is based on different mechanisms. For example, the oxidative functions of NPs can inhibit nucleic acid replication and destroy the microbial cell membrane as well as interfere with their cellular functions and biochemical cycles. On the other hand, NPs can disrupt the pathogens’ lifecycle by interrupting vital points of their life, such as virus uncoating and entry into human cells. Many types of NPs have been tested by different scientists for these purposes. Silver, gold, copper, and titanium have shown the most ability to inhibit and remove pathogens inside and outside the body. In this review, the authors endeavor to comprehensively describe the antimicrobial features of NPs and their applications for different biomedical goals.
Submucosal Infiltration versus Intravenous Administration of Dexamethasone in Decreasing Post-operative Inflammatory Sequelae after Third Molar Surgery - A Comparative Study
Authors: Naik Vinayak Gourish , Shankar M. N. Ravi , Agarwal Rashmi , Rai Kirthi Kumar , Karande Amol , Humne Abhijeet
Published: November 2024

Introduction:

Surgical removal of lower third molar is one of the most common surgical procedures and is quite stressful for many patients. In this study, two different routes of administration of dexamethasone 8 mg (intravenous [IV] vs. submucosally infiltrated) were used to evaluate the role of dexamethasone in reducing the post-operative inflammatory sequelae following lower third molar removal.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty patients who had to undergo surgical removal of mandibular third molars were randomly divided into two groups, each group consisting of 30 patients. One group of patients was administered 8 mg dexamethasone submucosally five min before the surgery. Another group of patients received 8 mg dexamethasone intravenously five min before the surgery. Facial swelling and pain were measured on the 2nd, 4th and 7th post-operative days.

Results:

The results of this study revealed that both the routes were effective in controlling post-operative pain and swelling. IV route of dexamethasone showed higher efficacy compared to submucosal (SM) route of dexamethasone in reducing the post-operative inflammatory sequelae in the surgical removal of impacted lower third molar teeth.

Discussion:

It was seen that IV dexamethasone (8 mg) and submucosal dexamethasone (8 mg) had equivalent ratings in terms of reduction of swelling and pain. Although the results of this study showed both the routes are effective in controlling post-operative swelling and pain after third molar surgery, the study concluded that certain benefits of submucosal route make the sm route to be a valuable alternative to iv dexamethasone.
A Rare Cause of Peripheral Vascular Disease: Monckeberg’s Medial Arteriosclerosis-Case Report
Authors: Anbarasan Kanmani , Elancheralathan K. , Kumar Ashok
Published: November 2024

Monckeberg’s disease, medial calcific arteriosclerosis, is a rare cause of severe lower-limb ischemia with an unclear etiology. We report the case of a 31-year-old male patient with recently diagnosed diabetes with left critical lower-limb ischemia, open revascularization done with improved ABI, and healing of an ulcer. After 3 months, the patient presented with rest pain and an ABI fall and finally ended up with a left below-knee amputation. Histopathological diagnosis showed that arteriosclerosis is associated with Monckeberg’s sclerosis.
Towing Away 18 mm Stent from the Right Atrium Using an Assembly of a Balloon and a Snare
Authors: Verma Himanshu , Sachan Trisha , Kumar Tanya
Published: November 2024

Superior vena cava (SVC) stenting is a common procedure utilized in managing SVC syndrome, whether it is due to a malignancy or secondary to benign causes such as indwelling catheters. The potential for unanticipated stent dislodgment exists, as illustrated in the presented case where the stent dislodged into the right atrium, posing a threat of cardiac tamponade. In such critical scenarios, the ideal approach involves endovascular retrieval, effectively minimizing patient morbidity. In this report, our objective was to outline a practical approach to retrieving an 18 mm diameter dislodged stent using a combination of a snare and balloon.
A Rare Complication of Internal Jugular Venous Cannulation for Hemodialysis – Carotid-Jugular Fistula
Authors: Jha Aandrei Jivendra , Kumar Tushar
Published: November 2024

Cannulation of the internal jugular vein for hemodialysis (HD) is a common procedure due to easy access and placement. Inadvertent puncture of the common carotid artery is a rare complication (<1%), and consequential Carotid-Jugular Fistula (CJF) is even rare, with only a handful of cases reported in the literature. This complication can develop insidiously and can be easily missed initially. We describe a patient with iatrogenic chronic left CJF secondary to an HD catheter inserted over 6 months ago at the same site. The patient was successfully diagnosed and treated with surgical ligation and remains asymptomatic till date.
Validation, Adaptation and Assessment of Orofacial Esthetic Scale in Hindi Language
Authors: Paulina  , Dhawan Pankaj , Jain Neha , Khan Uswah
Published: November 2024

Context:

The Hindi version of the Orofacial Esthetic Scale (OES) captures esthetic preferences and concerns specific to Hindi-speaking populations, making it more accessible to a wider audience. It also facilitates clear communication between healthcare professionals and patients, enhancing understanding and interactions. It facilitates cross-cultural research and helps improve healthcare equity by ensuring quality healthcare services tailored to the needs of the population.

Aims:

The aim of the study was to adapt and assess the Hindi version of the Orofacial Esthetic Scale-Hindi version (OES-H), validated for subjects needing or not needing prosthodontic treatment.

Settings and Design:

The study was conducted in the prosthodontic department of the institution. Patient recruitment was carried out consecutively until the required test population size of 162 patients was achieved. Patients were categorized into three groups based on their treatment requirements: No treatment (NT) requiring group, prosthodontic treatment (PT) requiring group, and esthetic prosthodontic treatment (EPT) requiring group. Patient recruitment for the NT group occurred during routine hygiene check-ups, while recruitment for the PT and EPT groups took place at the commencement of PT.

Methods and Materials:

The OES-H was obtained through a cross-culture adaptation process. The psychometric properties of the obtained version were then observed in a group of 54 prosthodontic and 54 non-prosthodontic patients and 54 patients requiring EPT.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Discriminant and convergent validity and reliability were measured.

Results:

The OES-H scores were found to be significantly higher for subjects not requiring EPT.

Conclusions:

The OES-H can be used as an effective tool for measuring the self-perceived aesthetic appearance in dental practice and research.
Two cases of hyperphosphatemic familial tumoral calcinosis with varied etiology and unique presentations
Authors: Thomas Glady , Kunnuru Sumana Reddy , Anne Beatrice , Divyasri Namburi , Ranganath Prajnya , Uppin Megha
Published: November 2024

Hyperphosphatemic familial tumoral calcinosis is a rare disorder caused by fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) deficiency or resistance resulting in elevated serum phosphorus levels in blood. Predominant clinical manifestations observed are ectopic calcification, hyperostosis, and rarely chronic recurrent multifocal osteomyelitis. It exhibits autosomal recessive inheritance and is associated with variants in three genes: FGF23, GALNT3, and KLOTHO. Recently, an acquired autoimmune variant has also been reported. In this report, we present two cases. One case presented with a clinical picture of chronic recurrent osteomyelitis and was found to have a variant in the GALNT3 gene. The other case exhibited typical manifestations but did not have an identifiable variant, and hence we are presuming it to be an acquired autoimmune variant.
Fibrin-glue-assisted retinopexy for coloboma-associated retinal detachment
Authors: Jain K Shreeya , Upadhyaya Abhishek , Raval Vishal R
Published: November 2024

Background:

Retinal detachment (RD) is common (23%–40%) in eyes with uveal coloboma due to early vitreous syneresis, inherent defects at the locus minoris resistentiae, and breaks in intercalary membrane (ICM).[1] Managing eyes with coloboma RD is difficult due to complexity of accessing and repairing retinal breaks. In RD surgeries, tamponade agents are used to provide surface tension across retinal breaks to prevent further fluid flow into the subretinal space until the effect of retinopexy is permanent. According to Tyagi et al., fibrin glue-assisted retinopexy for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment after pars plana vitrectomy is a promising technique that allows early visual recovery and obviates the need for postoperative positioning.[2] Fibrin glue, being an inert substance, usually stays for 1–2 weeks, making it an ideal temporary tamponade to plug the retinal break until the retinopexy effect becomes permanent.

Purpose:

To assess the role of fibrin-glue-assisted retinopexy in coloboma-associated RD.

Synopsis:

A male child presented with sudden diminution of vision in the left eye 5 days after trauma. His visual acuity was limited to counting fingers close to face. On examination, a type 3 coloboma with total rhegmatogenous RD and detached ICM was observed. A standard three-port 23G vitrectomy was performed, followed by a core vitrectomy. Triamcinolone-assisted posterior vitreous detachment was initiated, followed by the completion of peripheral vitrectomy. As no obvious retinal breaks were noted, subretinal injection of brilliant blue dye was used to locate the break within the coloboma using the dye extrusion technique. After fluid–air exchange, the dye was observed extruding into the vitreous cavity, thereby confirming the break within the coloboma. Laser retinopexy was done around edges of the coloboma in a continuous mode. Fibrin glue was injected over the site of the break and left for 1 min until a thick coagulum was formed, thereby plugging the retinal break. During the postoperative period, positioning was not advised. On day 5, best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved to 20/320 with an attached retina. At the last follow-up, the retina remained attached, and BCVA was 20/50.

Highlights:

In this interesting case, we illustrate a unique method of plugging the retinal break for coloboma-associated RD using fibrin glue, thereby obviating the need for long-term tamponade and positioning, especially in pediatric patients.

Video link:

https://youtu.be/M4yu_6aZ_R0
Relationship between organizational commitment, working environment, and burnout in clinical nurses
Authors: Alinejad-Naeini Mona , Ghasemi Mahin , Mirzaee Mohammad Saeed , Heidari-Beni Farshad
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Burnout is a mental condition caused by chronic emotional or psychological stress. Organizational commitment is always an important issue in the field of organizational development of clinical nurses. The study aimed to assess the association between organizational commitment, work environment, and burnout in clinical nurses.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This is a correlational descriptive study that was conducted from November 2021 to January 2021 on 456 clinical nurses at the Hazrat Rasul Akram University Hospital in Iran. The convenience sampling method was used. Data were collected using socio-demographic and work-related data collection sheet, the Working Environment Scale (WES-10), the Organizational Commitment Questionnaire (OCQ), and the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS). Data were analyzed by the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.

RESULTS:

The overall results showed that the mean score of organizational commitment was 29.87 ± 8.19, the mean score of burnout was 91.98 ± 17.40, and the mean score of work environment satisfaction was 24.62 ± 7.53. There were negative and significant relationships between organizational commitment with burnout (r = -0.324, P < 0.001) and work environment satisfaction (r = -0.440, P < 0.001). Also, there was a positive and significant relationship between work environment satisfaction with burnout (r = 0.386, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

The nursing profession is widely recognized as one of the most stressful professions, often characterized by high rates of staff turnover, absenteeism, and burnout. The result of this study highlights the importance of positive work conditions for ensuring the commitment and well-being of clinical nurses.
The effect of education on pre-operative anxiety in patients undergoing extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy
Authors: Mahkooyeh Saeideh Azizi , Zakerimoghadam Masoomeh , Haghani Shima , Navidhamidi Mojdeh
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The period before diagnostic and therapeutic procedures is associated with increased anxiety levels in patients due to a lack of sufficient information. This study aimed to determine the effect of education on physiological and psychological anxiety levels in patients before extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This randomized clinical trial was conducted at Baharloo Hospital in Tehran on 122 patients, and the samples were selected in two stages. In the first stage, the samples were selected using convenience sampling. In the second stage, they were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. The data were collected using demographic information and Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory to measure psychological anxiety. Salivary cortisol was measured to evaluate physiological anxiety by both groups before the intervention and entering the room. The intervention group received the information before ESWL via face-to-face lectures and the broadcast of pre-recorded lecture videos. The control group received only the usual care in the ward. The data analysis was performed by SPSS version 25 using descriptive statistics that included the calculation of mean, standard deviation, and frequency distribution and inferential statistics (independent t-test, paired t-test ANOVA, and Chi-square test).

RESULTS:

There was no significant difference in demographic characteristics between the intervention and control groups (P > 0.05). A significant decrease in the mean salivary cortisol level was found in the intervention group compared with the control group (P < 0.001). The anxiety level was markedly decreased in the intervention group compared with the control group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Adequately informing patients before ESWL could decrease patients’ physiological and psychological anxiety levels. So, people in the field of nursing education can take an important step towards using this method and reducing the anxiety of patients. The existence of such videos and holding training sessions can be a suitable solution for educating the patient.
Development, implementation and evaluation an empowerment program for adolescent girls with substance use disorders: Protocol for a mixed methods study
Authors: Ghelbash Zakiye , Alavi Mousa , Noroozi Mahnaz , Mahdavianfar Masuood
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

A tendency to high-risk behaviors, such as suicide, high-risk sexual behavior, and violence are among the important consequences of substance use in adolescent girls. Today, programs are designed with an empowerment approach, as important practical strategies for the management of issues associated with health and social welfare. Thus, in this study, we intend to design a comprehensive psychosocial empowerment program with an approach to reducing high-risk behaviors in adolescent girls with substance use disorder.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Using the Talbot and Verrinder model, this study will be designed in six steps. In the first step, the experiences of adolescent girls with substance use disorder as well as their psychosocial needs will be identified using a qualitative approach. Then, through a review of the literature, the needs and strategies will be completed and enriched. Thereafter, using a Delphi technique, the relevant needs and strategies identified in previous stages will be prioritized. In the second step, the program’s draft will be designed based on the results obtained from the previous step. During the third phase, the content of the program will be evaluated by a panel of experts. The fourth, fifth, and sixth steps of the model are dedicated to the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the program.

CONCLUSION:

It is expected that in the case of its effective implementation by social welfare and health organizations, the empowerment program would have the potential to have a considerable effect on reducing or controlling high-risk behaviors in adolescent girls with substance use disorder.
Revision of institutional accreditation standards and processes in Iranian medical universities
Authors: Yousefi Alireza , Changiz Tahereh , Avizhgan Maryam , Jokar Fariba , Ehsanpour Soheyla , Yamani Nikoo
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The institutional accreditation standards were revised after the initial round of institutional accreditation and gaining experience while scrutinizing issues and complications. This research covers the steps needed to update and then compile the new standards, making the necessary changes in regulations, self-evaluation guides, external evaluation, ethics, and the required forms.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This comprehensive developmental study, conducted in two main phases from 2019 to 2022 at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, employed a variety of rigorous methods. These included a thorough literature review, analysis of previous documents, gathering of gathering experts' opinions, and consensus techniques. In the first phase, standards were revised through meticulous steps such as a literature review, expert meetings, and a survey study among managers and faculty members of medical universities. In the second phase, regulations, forms, and guidelines were compiled during experts’ meetings.

RESULTS:

In the first phase, a draft of the standards, prepared based on previous accreditation experiences, universities feedback on standards, and review of 14 accreditation institution websites, in eight domains, 23 subdomains, and 94 standards. Notably, 75 of these standards were deemed mandatory, while 19 were classified as preferred. The prepared draft of the standards was then subjected to a three-stage survey. During this process, the National Accreditation Commission proposed one modification to the regulations and four alterations to the standards, along with accompanying explanations. Afterward, during the second and third review stages involving universities and managers, 14 standards were revised, two new standards were introduced, and seven explanations were appended. The finalization of mandatory and preferred standards was contingent upon attaining a 70% consensus on their necessity and clarity. Following approval by the Secretariat of the Council for Development, these standards were formally ratified. The regulations, self-assessment guide, external evaluation guide, ethics guide, and necessary forms were prepared and approved by the National Accreditation Commission in the second phase using data from literature reviews and experiences gained from the first round of accreditation.

CONCLUSION:

This study focused on developing standards and processes commissioned by the National Accreditation Commission, which will serve as the national institutional accreditation standards for evaluating medical universities. Additionally, these standards could be used as a basis for development of accreditation standards of those universities affiliated with the Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology.
Experiences of COVID-19 survivors and their families: A qualitative study based on social cognitive theory
Authors: Sohrabivafa Malihe , Sadeghi Roya , Tedadi Yaser , Sighaldeh Shirin Shahbazi , Riahi Forough , Foroushani Abbas Rahimi , Zarei Javad
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The COVID-19 pandemic caused social and economic damages, increased mortality rates, and psychological damages such as fear, stress, anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the present study aimed to explore the perceptions and experiences of COVID-19 survivors diagnosed with anxiety and depression, along with one of their family members in Ahvaz.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A qualitative study was conducted on 50 COVID-19 survivors and their family members using an in-depth interview and a purposive sampling method in 2022. On average, each interview lasted 45 minutes. For the content analysis, the content of the interviews was analyzed using MAXQDA10 software.

RESULTS:

In the present research, 188 primary codes were extracted with six categories and eight subcategories for the survivors: Patient’s knowledge and perspective regarding COVID-19, post-COVID-19 conditions, sense of capability before and after infection with COVID-19, management of COVID-19, and social support, and one main category for family members: social support.

CONCLUSION:

The experiences of COVID-19 survivors, their friends, family members, and healthcare providers significantly impact their mental health and accelerate their recovery. Therefore, it is recommended to develop an educational and preventive program using scientific and proper methods to cope with psychological challenges.
Analyzing the status of pre-hospital emergency medical services graduates in Iran during the last two decades
Authors: Miri Kheizaran , Sabbaghi Mohammadreza , Namazinia Mohammad
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pre-hospital emergency medical services (PHEMS) training system is an integral part of the health system of any country. Therefore, knowing the status of graduates of this field can provide a new analysis for the policymakers of the National Health System. The purpose of this study was to analyze the status of PHEMS graduates in Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present survey research was conducted with the participation of 437 pre-hospital emergency medicine graduates of Iranian medical science universities in spring and summer of 2022. Sampling in this study was convenience. The documents of the National Organization of Educational Testing were used as well. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire. Statistical analyses were performed by SPSS25 software using descriptive statistics and analytical statistics.

RESULTS:

Among the graduates, the largest number (41.5%) was reported to be in the associate degree. According to the emergency system structure in Iran, graduates were employed in operational, communication, and headquarters areas, respectively, of which 76.8% were working in government centers. Most of the graduates were from the medical sciences universities of Zone 2 (35.6%) in the eastern area of Iran, while most of the workers were related to the medical sciences universities of Zone 1 (27.9%) in the capital region.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings revealed that the distribution of EMS graduates was not proportional to the distribution of the population and geographical area. Therefore, it is suggested that the policymakers of the country’s health system should make changes in the recruitment of students in each medical zone.
Design and validation of the reflection skills self-assessment questionnaire (RSSAQ)
Authors: Hamedfar Hadi , Barzegar Mohammad , Ranjbar Fatemeh , Ghaffarifar Saeideh
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Reflection is one of the main components of the medical sciences curriculum. It is one of the learner-centered educational strategies, leading to deep learning, and is necessary to attain professional capabilities. A pertinent challenge is how to assess reflection. This study was conducted to design and assess psychometric characteristics of medical sciences students’ reflection skills self-assessment questionnaire (RSSAQ) in Persian.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This is a methodological explorative study conducted at our University of Medical Sciences. First, an item pool was collected from both the literature review (previously designed questionnaires and existent models of reflection) and experts’ and researchers’ perspectives. Then the initial version of the questionnaire was presented to 19 experts and 50 students to assess the face and content validity. To assess the reliability, 48 students filled out the questionnaire twice at a one-week interval. To assess the construct validity, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were done. For doing so, 151 students filled out the questionnaire. The data was analyzed using IBM SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) Statistics for Windows version 16 and Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS).

RESULTS:

The content validity index (CVI), content validity ratio (CVR), and impact score (IS) for the questionnaire came out to be 0.91, 0.75, and 4.68, respectively. Regarding the reliability, Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were, respectively, 0.75 and 0.8 (with a 95 percent confidence interval). Regarding the construct validity, three factors were extracted, labeled as “readiness to reflect” (RTR), “reflection in action” (RIA), and “reflection on action” (ROA). It became clear that this questionnaire can predict 36.8 percent of variations in reflective behavior or process in students. CFA determined that there is a positive and significant correlation between RIA and ROA factors. However, the RTR factor has a negative correlation with the other factors and vice versa.

CONCLUSION:

The questionnaire designed in this study for reflection self-assessment had acceptable psychometric characteristics and can be applied in curriculum planning, educational evaluations, and designing educational interventions.
Investigating the effect of yoga-based educational interventions on the volume and composition of breast milk in premature infant’s mothers admitted to neonatal intensive care unit: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Karimi Fatemeh , Aziznejadroshan Parvin , Akbarian Rad Zahra , Nikbakht Hossein-Ali , Qujeq Durdi
Published: November 2024

Background:

This study examined the effects of yoga-based educational interventions on the volume and composition of breast milk in premature infants’ mothers admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Materials and Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted on 78 primiparous mothers whose premature infants were less than 34 weeks and were hospitalized in the NICU of Ayatollah Rouhani Hospital from February 2021 to November 2022. Mothers were assigned to a control group and an experimental group, that is, yoga, using the block randomization method. Mothers in the experimental group performed yoga for 30 minutes under the supervision of a yoga therapist every morning for six consecutive days. The volume of the mother’s milk was measured using an electric pump, while its composition was assessed using a spectrophotometer according to the instructions of the Pars Azmoun Standard Kit.

Results:

The results of the analysis on the remaining 76 samples showed a difference in the means of the volume of breast milk after the intervention with 11.39 and 33.84 ml for the control and yoga group, respectively.there was a significant difference between the amount of breast milk in the control and yoga groups (P < 0.001). Also, the average difference in the amount of breast milk compounds was not significantly different in any of the cases.

Conclusions:

The yoga technique is effective in increasing the volume of breast milk in mothers with premature infants. Therefore, it is recommended to increase the volume of breast milk in the NICU.
Recent advances in teaching–learning methodologies of the Ayurveda education system
Authors: Jibkate Bhagyashree , Pargaonkar Akshay S.
Published: November 2024

Teaching and learning are two sides of the same coin. Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicine that originated in India, has a long history of teaching and learning methods. In the early days, Ayurvedic knowledge was primarily transmitted through oral tradition, with teachers passing down their knowledge to students through direct communication. Ayurvedic education is increasingly becoming extra-oriented. The current educational system is upgraded by various teaching–learning technologies tovarious factors. The upshot of this is a student-centered outcome. Hence, systematical examination and analysis ofrecent advances in Ayurveda teaching and learning methods is the primary objective of this review. These modern methods complement traditional Ayurvedic teachings, providing students with a well-rounded education that combines ancient wisdom with contemporary technology. The integration of these technologies aims to make Ayurvedic education more dynamic, accessible, and relevant to the evolving needs of students and the healthcare landscape. These methods contribute to the evolution of Ayurvedic education while protecting the fundamental principles and wisdom of Ayurveda.
Effectiveness cognitive emotion regulation strategies to reduce social anxiety and improve social self-efficacy
Authors: Gazo Ahmad M. , Mahasneh Ahmad M.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a training program based on cognitive emotion regulation strategies to reduce social anxiety and improve social self-efficacy among Hashemite University students.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

The study sample comprised 57 students randomly divided into two groups: The experimental group consisted of 28 students, and the control group consisted of 29 students. The experimental group was exposed to the training program consisting of 18 sessions, while the control group did not receive any experimental treatment. The students in both experimental and control groups completed the social anxiety scale and social self-efficacy scales before and after the training program.

RESULTS:

The study found differences in the mean score of the experimental group on the post-test of the social anxiety level in favor of the experimental group and in the mean score of the experimental group on the post-test of the social self-efficacy scale in favor of the experimental group.

CONCLUSION:

The training program based on cognitive emotion regulation strategies is very effective in reducing the social anxiety and improving social self-efficacy.
Difference in the epidemiological and clinical profiles of mortality between the first and second waves of COVID-19 pandemic in a tertiary care hospital of Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Authors: Roy Avijit , Jahnavi G. , Peter Shirley , Dakuya Tapash K. , Venugopal Vinayagamoorthy , Bhattacharya Sudip , Biswas Bijit
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands reported the first coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) case on March 26, 2020. This study aimed to describe the epidemiological and clinical profiles of COVID-19 mortality that occurred during the first and second waves of COVID-19 pandemic and to compare the differences between them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a retrospective cohort study carried out among COVID-19 patients admitted at GB Pant Hospital, Port Blair. Socio-demographic and clinical details were retrieved from the case records using structured proforma. Comparison of the study variables between the first and second waves was done by using Chi-square test using SPSS version 20.

RESULTS:

The first wave had total cases of 4994 and 62 deaths, and the second wave had 2734 cases and 67 deaths. The case fatality among COVID-19 cases during the first and second waves of the pandemic was 1.24% and 2.45%, respectively. There was no significant age and gender difference of patients between the two waves. Those who had co-morbidities during the first wave were 52 (83.8%), and those who had co-morbidities during the second wave were 45 (67.2%). The median duration of hospital stay in days during the first and second waves of the pandemic was 4 and 6 days, respectively.

CONCLUSION:

There was no significant difference in the age and gender distribution between the two waves; however, those who died during the second wave had a significantly higher percentage of co-morbidities. Therefore, health policy makers should develop a targeted approach to provide appropriate education, support, and awareness of patients with underlying diseases and allocate health care resources accordingly.
Protocol of randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effect of moderate exercise training on the functional capacity of patients with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator in a tertiary care center in South India
Authors: Paramasivan Selvakumar , Ramamoorthy Lakshmi , Selvaraj Raja
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cardiac rehabilitation programs are planned to reduce the physiological and psychological stress of Cardiovascular Disease, decrease the risk of mortality secondary to CVD, improve cardiovascular function, and help patients to achieve their highest quality of life. However, data on the safety and efficacy of exercise training (ET) in patients with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is sparse. Exercise interventions in those with an ICD have not been extensively studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A randomized controlled trial will be conducted to determine the effects of moderate ET on the functional capacity of patients with an Implantable cardioverter defibrillator with age group of >18 years, NYHA with grade II and III, EF ≤50%, No evidence of ICD discharge for past 3 months with minimum post-ICD implantation period of a minimum of 3 months. This study includes a total of 70 patients. Random allocation will be used to randomize participants into two groups (35 in each). Home-based walking exercises in the form of aerobic walking will be advised to patients with ICD. They will be advised to walk within the target heart rate for 1 to 24 weeks, which is divided into two components. Initial components included 1–8 weeks of exercise as an Aerobic conditioning component, which includes 1 hour/day x 5 days/week, followed by 9 to 24 weeks as an Aerobic maintenance component, which includes 30 minutes/day x 5 days/week. Adherence to the home walking program with the pulse, spo2, and BP will be tracked using a smartwatch, home exercise log book, and telephone follow-up (if less than 35km – monthly home visit will be done). Functional capacity will be assessed using a 6-minute walk test at baseline and at 6-month intervals.

CONCLUSION:

This study will identify the safety and efficacy of ET among patients with ICD, which will contribute to the important evidence base for cardiac rehabilitation among this group of patients.
Factors affecting stroke prevention behavior in elderly people with high blood pressure
Authors: Phuchongchai Thanyarat , Glangkarn Sumattana , Namyota Chaloemporn
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

Preventing stroke in senior citizens with high blood pressure will reduce disability and mortality rates. The study examined the behaviors and factors influencing stroke prevention behavior in older people.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

This cross-sectional study consisted of a sample group of 460 elderly individuals diagnosed with high blood pressure in the Mueang District, Chaiyaphum Province. Data were collected using a questionnaire on stroke knowledge, perception of self-efficacy, including perceived self-efficacy and expected outcome, social support, and stroke prevention behavior. Descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple linear regression analysis were also employed.

RESULTS:

The overall stroke prevention behavior in older people with high blood pressure was moderate, with a mean score of 3.64 (S.D. = 0.29). Factors influencing stroke prevention behavior in this population sector were high blood pressure, self-efficacy, expected outcomes, and social support from public health personnel, friends, and media. These five factors accounted for 54.2% of the variance in stroke prevention behavior.

CONCLUSION:

Public health personnel should organize activities or programs to promote behavior change, emphasizing increasing self-efficacy. It is also important to encourage positive expectations for behavior outcomes and foster social support from both media and friends when caring for older people with high blood pressure.
Challenges in the food supply chain following the great earthquake disaster in Turkey: A study of the regions of Malatya, Adıyaman and Kahramanmaraş
Authors: Alataş Hacer , Arslan Nurgül
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The consequences of natural disasters, such as damage to food systems, destruction of transport infrastructure, and organizational issues, can threaten the food security of people. Hence, food security measures are among the most important responses in the management of natural disasters. This study was conducted to identify the challenges in food security response following a great earthquake in Turkey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study used a qualitative approach. Within the scope of this study, 37 food cooking and preparation points were examined in the Malatya, Adıyaman, and Kahramanmaraş-Pazarcık regions. Forty-five authorized individuals working at KIZILAY, who were responsible for all aspects of nutrition, were interviewed. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, with 27 inquiries selected using purposive sampling. Qualitative content analysis was performed to analyze the data. The data analysis process utilized inductive qualitative content analysis to produce themes and categories.

RESULTS:

Most participants (%80.00) stated that there was no food variety. Menus generally consists of foods with a low nutritional value such as refined grains, legumes, sweets, spices, seasonings, oils, and sugary drinks (particularly soft drinks). The majority of the participants stated that they could not give milk group (%91.11), vegetables (%93.33), fruits (%97.78), and eggs (%100.00). The participants stated that organizational problems (%77.77), transportation problems (%64.44), cold weather conditions (%84.44), and a lack of stock (%64.44) prevent food safety.

CONCLUSION:

According to the findings of this study, underlying challenges such as geographical and weather conditions, organizational problems, and vulnerability of part of the population threatened food security. The lack of nutritional diversity can cause health problems such as obesity, malnutrition, and anemia, especially in vulnerable people.
The social support, healthy lifestyle, subjective well-being, and health-related quality of life among university students
Authors: Ifroh Riza Hayati , Gai Xiaosong , Rabiautsani Muhamad Aziz , Han Xue
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND:

The health-related quality of life and subjective well-being of young people need to be confirmed at the population level by identifying protective factors such as social support and their current healthy lifestyle. This study aims to examine a healthy lifestyle as a mediator of the associations between perceived social support to subjective well-being and health-related quality of life and also to analyze the associations between all these variables.

METHODS AND MATERIALS:

This study was conducted by cross-sectional survey of university students (N = 348) derived from ten cities/municipalities in East Kalimantan, Indonesia. Recruitment of respondents was performed through convenience sampling and by sharing open questionnaire links on integrated social media. The data were collected between April and June 2023 and taken from an online self-administered questionnaire. Instruments used consisted of demographics, the multidimensional scale of perceived social support, overall healthy lifestyle, BBC subjective well-being scale, and EQ-5D-5L (EuroQol) for health-related quality of life. Data have been analyzed using descriptive statistics, T-test and ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple linear regression.

RESULTS:

The results showed a significant association between the domain of perceived social support, healthy lifestyle, subjective well-being, and health-related quality of life. This research also proves that a healthy lifestyle can be a mediator of the association between perceived social support and health-related quality of life and also subjective well-being among university students.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings suggest that youth lifestyle indicators are one of the domains that can be considered for use in research on subjective well-being and health-related quality of life, which are supported by perceived social support at the population level.