bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Federated spatial reuse optimization in next-generation decentralized IEEE 802.11 WLANS
Authors: Wilhelmi Francesc , Hribar Jernej , Yilmaz Selim F. , Ozfatura Emre , Ozfatura Kerem , Yildiz Ozlem , Gunduz Deniz , Chen Hao , Ye Xiaoying , You Lizhao , Shao Yulin , Dini Paolo , Bellalta Boris
Published: October 2022

As wireless standards evolve, more complex functionalities are introduced to address the increasing requirements in terms of throughput, latency, security, and efficiency. To unleash the potential of such new features, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) are currently being exploited for deriving models and protocols from data, rather than by hand-programming. In this paper, we explore the feasibility of applying ML in next-generation Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs). More specifically, we focus on the IEEE 802.11ax Spatial Reuse (SR) problem and predict its performance through Federated Learning (FL) models. The overview of the set of FL solutions in this work is part of the 2021 International Telecommunication Union (ITU) AI for 5G Challenge.
System intelligence for UAV-based mission critical services with challenging 5G/B5G connectivity
Authors: Both Cristiano Bonato , Borges Joao , Gonçalves Luan , Nahum Cleverson , Macedo Ciro , Klautau Aldebaro , Cardoso Kleber
Published: October 2022

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and communication systems are fundamental elements in mission critical services, such as search and rescue. In this article, we introduce an architecture for managing and orchestrating 5G and beyond networks that operate over a heterogeneous infrastructure with UAVs' aid. UAVs are used for collecting and processing data, as well as improving communications. The proposed System Intelligence (SI) architecture was designed to comply with recent standardization works, especially the ETSI Experiential Networked Intelligence specifications. Another contribution of this article is an evaluation using a testbed based on a virtualized non-standalone 5G core and a 4G Radio Access Network (RAN) implemented with open-source software. The experimental results indicate, for instance, that SI can substantially improve the latency of UAV-based services by splitting deep neural networks between UAVs and edge or cloud equipment. Other experiments explore the slicing of RAN resources and efficient placement of virtual network functions to assess the benefits of incorporating intelligence in UAV-based mission critical services.
Reconsideration of Korean Benefactive Expressions in Foreign Language Teaching Contexts
Authors: Kim Lan
Published: October 2022

This article examines the presentations of the Korean benefactive expression -e/a cwuta in four Korean-as-a-foreign-language textbooks and provides an account for expressing the benefactive meaning by reviewing a wide range of data considered in the literature as well as the corpus made and available by the National Institute of the Korean Language. The results of the analysis of the corpus in the spoken Korean language suggest a reconsideration of the presentations of the benefactive form in the Korean language textbooks, because it is found that there is a gap between what is conveyed in the textbooks and real-life practice.
Unmet Need For Contraception: An Overview From A District In West Bengal
Authors: Misra Raghunath , Haldar Anima , Baur Baijayanti , Saha Tushar Kanti , Roy Samir Kumar
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To address the social correlates of unmet need for contraception among currently married women of reproductive age group. Methods: This community based cross sectional study was conducted in urban and rural areas of Howrah district of West Bengal during April to Sept 09. Multistage stratified random sampling was followed. Results: Out of total 2000 respondents, 1400 (70%) belonged to nuclear family; more than half (57.2%) were below 30 years of age. About 1/3rd (33.3%) of the respondents had no institutional education. The overall unmet need for contraception in this study was 8.7%. Unmet need was higher among the rural, Muslim, illiterate and lower age group. The main reasons for unmet need were lack of information (39%), fear of adverse effect (21.3%), and opposition from husband (11.5%), hindrance from elder family members (10.4%), inconvenient time (8%), and religious barrier (3.5%). Conclusion: To minimize the unmet need BCC programme to be strengthened
Are Women Aware about Copper-T? A Comparative Study from West Bengal
Authors: Ray Rama Prasad , Saha Tushar Kanti , Baur Baijayanti , Samanta Amrita , Haldar Anima
Published: October 2022

Background: The rampant population growth has been viewed as the greatest obstacle to the economic and social advancement to the majority of people in the underdeveloped world. Objectives: Comparative study was carried out regarding awareness about Copper-T (Cu-T) and its social correlates among currently married women of reproductive age group in two districts of West Bengal. Study Design: A cross-sectional, descriptive type of observational study. Materials and Methods: Stratified multistage random sampling technique was followed to select villages of sub-centres areas and wards from municipality areas. Total 32 areas were selected from two districts and from each selected area, 125 eligible couples were interviewed by house to house survey to cover (32 X 125) 4000 eligible couples. Statistical Analysis: Proportions and Chi-square test. Results: 55.9% of currently married women of reproductive age group (15-49 yrs.) had knowledge about Cu-T.only 15.2% had the perception about it Awareness was more among urban respondents (67.3%) than rural (52.1%). Influencing factors like religion, age, literacy status, social class, type of family also prevailed in both the districts of West Bengal. Conclusion: Social correlates like age, religion, literacy status, type of family influenced awareness of the respondents about Cu-T. So area specific intervention measures are needed through IEC for genaration of awareness .
A Study on Risk Factors of Bronchial Asthma Among Children Attending Pediatric Outpatient Department of B. S. Medical College, Bankura
Authors: Mukherjee Sourav , Mandal Nirmal Kumar
Published: October 2022

Background: As a part of short-term research studentship program (STS) of Indian council of Medical Research, the study was conducted under Department of Community Medicine, B S Medical College, Bankura Objectives: To find out risk & triggering factors associated with the development of bronchial asthma in pediatric patients Methods: A matched case-control study was conducted at Pediatric out-patient department of B.S. Medical College and Hospital, Bankura, West Bengal on childhood bronchial asthma. Fifty children suffering from asthma were selected from asthma clinic and age and sex matched control in 1:2 ratio with cases were selected form within the children attending Pediatric OPD with diseases other than asthma. Results: Family history, passive smoking and factory near residence were found to be associated significantly with increased risk of asthma. Triggering factors like preceding infections, exercise, certain food items, cold, dust and smoke were found to induce an episode of asthma. Conclusion: Avoidance of tobacco smoke, dust, exposure to cold,and certain offending food items will be of great help to reduce the prevalence and severity of bronchial asthma for Pediatric population.
A Study on Complaince Pattern of Tuberculosis Patients Under DOTS in A District of West Bengal
Authors: Bisoi Sukamal , Chatterjee Dipankar , Haldar Dibakar , Dhar Gautam , Ray Samir Kumar , Sinha Abhik
Published: October 2022

Background: DOTS is a comprehensive strategy for tuberculosis control based largely on Indian research and it now recognized worldwide. Still non-compliance to DOTS remains a major public health challenge. Aims: To know the compliance of DOTS therapy in tuberculosis patients in Howrah district of West Bengal and to find out the factors responsible for non-compliance. Methods: A community based cross-sectional study was undertaken to determine socio-demographic and treatment related risk factors in relation to non-compliance of patients under DOTS in Howrah district of West Bengal. Altogether 141 patients registered in 2nd quarter(1st April to 30th June2007) in Domjure TU were interviewed by home visit after their completion of intensive phase of treatment. Results: 63.8% patients were compliant with treatment. Non-compliance was significantly higher among 25-54 years age group(51.4%) and in male(46%) patients. Literate patients, patients of upper and lower middle socio-economic class and those were actually supervised during swallowing of drugs were found more compliant with the treatment. Conclusion: Proper supervision of DOT providers with adequate counseling of patients and their close relatives might help to treatment compliance.
2013~New Horizon With Rabies Biologicals
Authors: KUNDU ASIS KUMAR
Published: October 2022

Prevention is the only way out to stop death from Rabies, not the treatment of the same to cure the diseased. The only communicable ailment having 100% mortality depicts almost full preventive protection on the other side of the coin. The age old nerve tissue vaccine below the belly--dermis is ultimately history and almost half â€“ a â€“ dozen ultramodern Anti- rabies biological are on the cards now-a-days. Justified usage of them and social alertness reflecting the health consciousness of the civilization should improve the quality of human existence on the planet â€“ let this be the theme of life in every sunrise to be seen. This Endeavour aims to reflect the light of management system of Anti-rabies prophylaxis with the most modern tools.
Community Based Study on Reproductive Tract Infection in a District of West Bengal â€“ An Appraisal
Authors: Haldar Anima , Saha Tushar Kanti , Baur Baijayanti , Ray Samir Kumar , Chatterjee Sita
Published: October 2022

Background:Reproductive tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases represent a major public health problem in developing countries. As reported from different community based studies conducted in India, the range of self reported morbidity vary from 39- 84%. Majority of the women bear the problems silently without seeking advice and treatment. Objectives: to estimate the prevalence of RTIs morbidity among married women and identify different socio-environmental factors associated with it. Materials & Methods: A Community Based Cross â€“ Sectional study was carried out in Howrah district of West Bengal during May 2009 to August 2009 to reveal the prevalence of Reproductive Tract Infection and its Social correlates. The respondents were 2000 currently married women (15-49yrs) selected by stratified multistage random sampling. House to house visit and data collection was done by faculty members of Community Medicine of different Medical colleges of W.B. using predesigned & pretested schedule. Result: The prevalence of RTI was 9.9% and was higher in 24-29 yrs age group. RTI was indirectly proportional to literacy status. Prevalence of RTI was significantly higher among those who did not use sanitary napkin or clean sundried domestic cloths. The occurrence of RTI was lower among those who used to practice barrier method of Contraception whereas it was higher among Cu-T users. Majority of symptomatic complained about vaginal discharge (44.7%). Conclusion: To prevent RTI morbidities, use of clean sundried domestic cloths, barrier method of contraception and awareness about small family norm are to be recommended through intervention in future.
Passive Euthanasia/ Physician Assisted Suicide-Whither Indian Judicial System?
Authors: Biswas Soumi , Mundle Malay
Published: October 2022

Passive euthanasia has now been made legal in India.1 On 7 March 2011 the Supreme Court of India legalised passive euthanasia by means of the withdrawal of life support to patients in a permanent vegetative state. The decision was made as part of the verdict in a case involving Aruna Shanbaug, who has been in a vegetative state for 37 years at King Edward Memorial Hospital. Aruna had been a nurse working at the KEM Hospital in Mumbai on 27 November 1973 when she was strangled and sodomized by Sohanlal Walmiki, a sweeper. During the attack she was strangled with a chain, and the deprivation of oxygen had left her in a vegetative state ever since. She had been treated at KEM since the incident and was kept alive by feeding tube. On behalf of Aruna, her friend Pinki Virani, a social activist, filed a petition in the Supreme Court arguing that the "continued existence of Aruna is in violation of her right to live in dignity". The Supreme Court made its decision on 7 March 2011.
Clinical and Socio Demographic Profile of Arsenicosis Patients in West Bengal. An Observational Study
Authors: Mazumder D N Guha , Majumdar Kunal K , Ghosh Aloke , Ghosh Nilima , Saha Chandan , Nandy Ashoke
Published: October 2022

Background: Various clinical features are reported in arsenicosis cases in different case and cross sectional studies. The current study examines the specificity of these features in arsenicosis cases compared to arsenic exposed and unexposed controls. Methods: A stratified multi-stage design was adopted for selection of participants in two districts of West Bengal. The three cohorts consisted of 108 arsenicosis cases and 100 each of arsenic exposed and unexposed controls. Socio demographic characteristics and clinical features were recorded in field study. Water samples taken by the participants and their urine and hair samples were estimated for arsenic. Results: Mean peak arsenic level in drinking water was 259.53 Â± 161.49 Î¼g/L and 259.53 Â± 161.49 Î¼g/L (p>0.05) among arsenicosis cases and arsenic exposed controls respectively while it was below detection limit in unexposed controls. There was no difference in arsenic level in urine and hair among the former group. Significantly higher number of arsenicosis cases was found among poor farmers and agricultural laborers. There was no difference in BMI and smoking habit among the three cohorts. Chronic lung Disease was present in 40.74% of arsenicosis cases compared to 8% exposed (p0.001) and 5% unexposed (p<0.001) controls. Peripheral neuritis was observed only in two arsenicosis cases. Further, significant number of these cases had weakness and hypertension compared to controls. Conclusion: Poor people are predominantly affected due to arsenicosis in West Bengal. Skin lesions and chronic lung disease are the major causes of morbidity in these people.
Assessment of Nutrition, Morbidity & Immunization Status of Children (24 to 59 months) attending a Rural Medical College Hospital of West Bengal
Authors: Basu Mausumi , Sarkar Tarun Kumar , Chaudhury Gagori , Barua Jayanta , Mandal Ranjana , Ghosh Debkumar , Das Palash
Published: October 2022

Background: Nearly half of Indiaâ€™s children - 43% are underweight, 45% are stunted and 20% are wasted;26.3 million cases of ARI were reported in 2011 with an incidence rate of 2179 per lakh population; 10.6 million cases of diarrhoea with 1293 deaths were reported in 2011; fully immunized coverage in the age-group of 12-23 month old children was 61%.. This study was conducted to assess the morbidity profile, under nutrition and immunization status of 24 to 59 months old children in a medical college hospital of West Bengal. Methods: An Institution based cross sectional study was conducted among 450 children of 24 â€“ 59 months, attended Paediatric Out Patient Department and Immunization Clinic of Midnapore Medical College & Hospital, from July to September 2013 using a predesigned pretested schedule. Results: the prevalence of underweight, wasting and stunting was 42.44%, 20.22% and 51.78% respectively. Boys suffered more than girls in all three indicators. Acute Respiratory Infections (54.22%) and diarrhea (52.66%) were the common morbidities; 79.33% were fully immunized; 14.67% were partially immunized and 6% were unimmunized. Conclusion: The problem of under-nutrition, common morbidities and low immunization amongst pre-school children needs to be addressed through comprehensive preventive, promotive, curative and social measures.
ICMR: Leading the nation with low-cost innovations
Authors: Mani Geetha , Danasekaran Raja , Annamalai Kalaivani
Published: October 2022

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has been a pioneer in advancing medical and scientific research in India for decades. The past few years have seen the launch of many notable innovations and guidelines projecting Indiaâ€™s image in the global scientific landscape. This is a short summary of the recent low-cost innovations developed by ICMR.
National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme: Current Updates
Authors: Danasekaran Raja , Annadurai Kalaivani , Mani Geetha
Published: October 2022

Vector-borne diseases are a group of communicable diseases transmitted by mosquitoes and other vectors. National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme is the programme for prevention & control of these diseases. Many new initiatives have been undertaken in the programme which includes National Programme for Prevention & Control of JE/AES, Strategic Plan for Malaria control in India (2012-2017), National Drug Policy on Malaria-2013, Environmental Codes of Practice, etc. in order to make India free from vector borne diseases with equitable access to quality health care.
Risk Factors Of Young Age Hypertension : A Case Control Study
Authors: Parvathy R S , Joy Nirma , Sorna P N , Nujum Zinia T
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND: The objective of the study was to assess the risk factors of primary hypertension in age group of 15 -40 years at Medical college hospital Trivandrum. METHODS: A Case control study was done to compare hypertensives and non hypertensives in the age group of 15-40 years. Cases were those attending the medicine OP department in the age group of 15 â€“ 40 years and having a BP of more than 140/90 mm of mercury on two successive readings. Those in this age group with BP < 140/90 mm of mercury were taken as controls. 50 cases and 100 controls were identified. Data was collected using a semi structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Factors associated with hypertension in this age group by bivariable analysis included family history (OR-3.63, p- 0.0002), current smoking habit(OR-4.92, p- 0.004), smokeless tobacco user (OR-5.3, p- 0.01), Current drinker (OR-3.8,p-0.002). After multivariable analysis using logistic regression, family history was found to be an independent risk factor for hypertension in the young. CONCLUSION: Early screening for detection of hypertension among young people with family history & appropriate management are important needs of the hour.
Critical Appraisal of Mass DEC Compliance in a District of West Bengal
Authors: Haldar Anima , Ray Samir Kumar , Jha Sankar Nath , Dasgupta Urmila , Roy Ramaprasad , Saha Tushar Kanti
Published: October 2022

Background & Objectives: As a part of Revised Filaria control strategy, MDA programme was implemented in Murshidabad district from 29th - 31st December 2008. A cross sectional study was carried out to assess drug compliance after Mass Drug Administration of DEC and the factors responsible for poor compliance among the population of Murshidabad district of West Bengal during Jan 2009. Materials & methods: Total study unit were 120 families covering 3 villages and one municipality ward area (30 families from each area). Results: Out of 601 family members, 571 were eligible for Mass drug administration (6 pregnant women and < 2 years age groups (24) were excluded). Drug distribution rate was 91.8%.Overall drug compliance was 42.3%.Total number of defaulters was 330 (57.7%). Non compliance was highest (75.5%) in urban area. Defaulters were more among male than female. Factors responsible for defaulters were no motivation (24.7%), drugs not supplied (22.5%) ,absence at home (13.5%),no faith (10.1%), fear of side effects (10.1%) and others (Forgotten, lack of prior IEC etc), illness, wrong information were 7.8%, 7.3%, 3.9% respectively. Majority has no side effects, only dizziness (3.3%), headache (1.7%), vomiting and others (4.1%) were experienced by the people after consumption of drugs. On an average 40% families were aware about ELF & transmission of disease. Only 43.7% of community members were informed about MDA by Health Workers prior to the implementation of MDA programme.
WORLD POPULATION DAY 2015: ISSUES AND CHALLENGES IN INDIA
Authors: Misra Raghunath
Published: October 2022

At the beginning of Christian era, nearly 2000 years ago, world population was estimated to be around 250 million and by the year 2014 that has been more than 7.2 billion. It is expected to reach 8 billion by 20251 China comes first in the list of the most populated country of the world, India comes at the second place and the United States of America gets the third place on World Population Day 2015.In the last 200 years the world population has increased sevenfold. Here's how that happened and what the results are, according to the United Nations Population Fund "This dramatic growth has been driven largely by increasing numbers of people surviving to reproductive age, and has been accompanied by major changes in fertility rates, increasing urbanization and accelerating migration. These trends will have far-reaching implications for generations to come." UNFPA 2World Population Day: World Population Day is a special event being celebrated all over the world annually on 11th of July. It was exalted by the interest of the public when the global population became five billion on 11th of July in the year 1987and first started in the year 1989 by the Governing Council of the United Nations Development Programme to increase the awareness of the people towards the worldwide population growth and related issues.
A Study on Menstrual Hygiene and Dysmenorrhea of Adolescent Girls in a Rural Population of West Bengal
Authors: Lalbiaknungi Linda , Roy Sima , Paul Avijit , Dukpa Rinchen
Published: October 2022

Background: Learning about hygiene during menstruation is a vital aspect of health education for adolescent girls, as patterns that are developed in adolescence are likely to persist into adult life. Studies related to these aspects among the rural population are still scanty. With this in view this study was undertaken. Objectives: To find out the prevalence of dysmenorrhoea, its severity and practice of menstrual hygiene among the adolescent girls. Methods: A rural hospital based cross sectional study. 86 adolescent girls, attending the Adolescent Clinic during the study period, were included in the study and data was collected by interview method using a pre designed semi structured schedule. Analysis was done using MS Excel 2010 and Epi Info 7. P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Most of the girls were student (56.9%) and belonged to poor socio-economic group (69.7%) . 61.2% girls attained menarche at 14 years and 48.3% experienced dysmenorrhoea and the pain is mild in nature (40.4%). 61.6% were aware about menstruation before menarche and the informant were mothers (60.4%). 41.8% girls used sanitary pads and discarded (63.9%) thereafter. Conclusion: Health communication regarding menstruation and other issues of reproductive health is recommended.
Arsenic safe water and changes in severity of arsenical symptoms
Authors: Majumdar Kunal Kanti , Goyal Mahesh Kumar
Published: October 2022

Limited information is available in the literature regarding the long-term effect of chronic arsenic toxicity after stoppage of consumption of arsenic-containing water. Treatment options for the management symptoms of chronic arsenicosis are also limited. Mitigation option available for dealing with the health problem of ground water arsenic contamination rests mainly on supply of arsenic safe water in arsenic endemic region of Indo-Bangladesh subcontinent. The current study was therefore done to study the prevalence of arsenicosis and to assess the effect of drinking arsenic safe water (<50Âµg/L) on disease manifestation of arsenicosis. Manifestations of various skin lesions and systemic diseases associated with chronic arsenic exposure was ascertained initially by carrying on baseline study on 191 families having 1097 family members along with 44 children studying in Chouduar Primary School in Chouduar village of Malda District of West Bengal. The study population was taking water solely from a particular Chouduar primary school tube well with arsenic level >50 Âµg/L. The base line study findings were compared objectively at the end of six months follow up period after installation of a community filter at the Chouduar primary school tube well. Around 11.36% of school children had clinical features of suspected arsenicosis with mild keratosis either in the palm or sole. The prevalence was more common in males. 15.8% of the remaining study population was having one or more dermatological and non dermatological manifestations of arsenicosis and there was 1.94% decrease in prevalence of non dermatological manifestations without any change in dermatological manifestations after taking arsenic safe water at the end of 6 months of follow up study. Around 70% of population was not aware about adverse health effects of arsenicosis and not taking animal protein regularly.
BMI, Physical Activity and Diabetes- A Case Control Study in a Rural Area of Kancheepuram district of Tamil Nadu.
Authors: Venkatachalam J , Muthukumar T , Muthu Rajesh E , Singh Zile
Published: October 2022

AIMS & OBJECTIVES: To assess the association between physical activity, BMI and diabetes mellitus in a study population. METHODS: A community based case control study to associate BMI, physical activity, and diabetes was conducted in the rural area of Chunampet, Cheyyurtaluk of Kancheepuram district in Tamilnadu, which is under PIMS field practicing area, Rural Health Training Centre under Department of Community Medicine, Pondicherry Institute of Medical Sciences, and Chunampet. Study participants: Adult population aged 35 - 50 years of age. Sample size: 150 cases and 150 controls. Definition of cases: Known diabetics and persons with FBS> 126 mg/dl or PPBS>200mg/dl. Definition of controls: Persons who are not a known a case of Diabetes and with FBS<126 and PPBS<200. Exclusion criteria: Critically ill person and Persons with other co morbidities. Questionnaire: A pre-designed and pre-tested questionnaire was used. Details regarding their duration of disease, physical activity are collected by house to house survey. Pulse, blood pressure, height in cms, weight in kgs is recorded. Revised BMI Scale was used to grade overweight and obesity. Intensity of physical activity was graded using British Heart Association grading system. Results: The study was conducted with 150 Diabetics (Cases) and 150 Non-Diabetics (Controls). Among the 150 Diabetics (Cases), 124 were males and 26 females. And, among the 150 Non-Diabetics (Controls), 124 were males and 26 were females. Cases and controls are matched for sex and age (+/- 5 years). No physical activity was positively associated with diabetes (OR= 1.9, CI= 1.3-4.8, p value<0.05). Overweight (OR=1.7, CI=0.8-2.7, p value<0.05) and obese person (OR=2.9, CI= 1.8-4.1) had higher risk for diabetes. Conclusion: The following factors (sedentary life style, obesity) were found to associated with diabetes mellitus and found to be statistically significant (p<0.05)
Perceptions and practices related to organ donation among a rural population of Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Mani Geetha , Danasekaran Raja , Annadurai Kalaivani
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives: Organ transplantation is the ultimate treatment of choice to save patients with end-organ damage. But the scarcity of organs from live or deceased donors remains an important barrier to the successful utilization of this measure in India. Our study intends to identify the perceptions and practices related to organ donation in a rural population of Tamil Nadu, India. Methods: This study was conducted among 100 participants from 100 households chosen by simple random sampling in a rural area of Kancheepuram district in Tamil Nadu, between February and March 2014. A pre-tested, semi-structured schedule was applied to the participants and the responses were summarised. Results: The response rate was 100%. Though all participants had heard about organ donation, only 86% were aware of the complete meaning. The awareness on organs which could be donated, related legislation was less than adequate. Ninety-seven percent participants opined that organ donation should be promoted and 71% were willing to consider organ donation in future. None of the participants have registered themselves as organ donors or have voiced their willingness to their close families. Conclusion: Our study population had basic awareness about organ donation and reasonably positive attitudes with regard to its promotion and willingness to donate in future. But there is a need to plan appropriate health education campaigns to equip them with accurate knowledge to enhance their attitudes and translate them into positive behaviour.
Non Communicable Diseases: Challenge Ahead
Authors: Joardar Gautam Kumar
Published: October 2022

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are of long duration and generally of slow progress. The four main groups of NCDs are Cardio-vascular diseases, Cancers, Chronic Respiratory diseases and Diabetes. The NCDs kill 38 million people worldwide annually (63% of global deaths). Almost three quarters of the NCD deaths (28 million) occur in the low and middle income countries. Sixteen million deaths due to NCDs are premature, occurring before the age of 70 years; and 82% of these premature deaths occur in the low and middle income countries. These four groups of diseases account for 82% of all NCD deaths: cardiovascular diseases 17.5 million, cancers 8.2 million, chronic respiratory diseases 4 million and diabetes 1.5 million. In India, 60% of all deaths are attributable to NCDs, making them the leading cause of death- ahead of injuries and communicable, maternal, prenatal, and nutritional conditions. The NCDs account for about 40% of all hospital stays and roughly 35% of all recorded outpatient visits in India. The globalization of unhealthy life styles, which are recognized as the modifiable risk factors, like tobacco use, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol and unhealthy diets are the key factors that increase the risk of dying from the NCDs. The unhealthy behaviours lead to four key metabolic/ physiological changes (called the intermediate risk factors of NCDs) i.e. raised blood pressure, overweight/ obesity, raised blood glucose and dyslipidaemia that increase the risk of NCDs. The underlying determinants of NCDs mainly exist in non-health sectors, such as agriculture, urban development, education and trade. In terms of attributable deaths, the leading metabolic risk factor globally is elevated blood pressure (to which 18% of global deaths are attributed), followed by overweight and obesity and raised blood glucose. Tobacco accounts for around 6 million deaths every year and is projected to increase to 8 million by 2030. About 3.2 million deaths annually can be attributed to insufficient physical activity. In 2010, 1.7 million annual deaths from cardio vascular causes have been attributed to excess salt intake. More than 3.3 million annual deaths are attributed to harmful drinking of alcohol.
Global warming â€“ where we are
Authors: Chatterjee Suman , Das Debasis , Bhattacharya Salil Kumar
Published: October 2022

Over last 8000 years, Earthâ€™s surface temperature raised by 1â—¦ C only. But at the present rate of global warming, the temperature would rise by 2.5â—¦C by 2050. By the end of this century temperature would rise by another 2.5 â—¦C. The Earth which was like an icebox has started burning. The sun sends energy as heat & light. Some part of the rays get through the atmosphere, some of them get reflected back into space. The ones which get through the atmosphere warm the earth up. All the time the earth radiates heat into space. Some of the heat going out is trapped by the atmosphere. This keeps our planet warm enough to live on. But if too much heat is trapped, the planet will warm up and the climate will change. The atmospheric air around the surface of the earth is made from a mixture of gases. Some of the gases trap heat, called greenhouse gases. This phenomenon is called natural greenhouse effect. Amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is increasing day by day through human activities. More heat is trapped, enhanced greenhouse effect results. This is causing the earth to heat up universally called as â€“ â€˜Global warmingâ€™. It doesnâ€™t just mean that the earth gets hotter; the whole climate is changing. Nitrogen & Oxygen make up 99% of the atmosphere, donâ€™t trap heat, called non-greenhouse gases. Carbon dioxide, Methane, Nitrous oxide, Ozone, Water vapour â€“ these gases make up 1% of the atmosphere, trap heat, called greenhouse gases. Human activities increases the amount of these gases in the atmosphere
Empowerment and engagement of SHG women against HIV/AIDS in India: an interventional study
Authors: Gupta Manoj Kumar , Sengupta Angan , Visnegarwala Fehmida
Published: October 2022

Background: Lack of access to information and education makes women more susceptible to acquire HIV/AIDS. Self-help groups (SHGs) are seen as instruments for empowering women in the community. Realizing this, it was hypothesized that if the strategy to train SHG women brings significant improvement in the knowledge of study population about HIV/AIDS; then this strategy may be a financially sustainable and practicable method in rural India.Objective: Empower and engage the SHG women against HIV/AIDS by creating awareness and sustaining interest through lesson plans in the IEC material.Methods: This was a 'Multi-centric Action Research Demonstration Study'. As an intervention, series of workshops were conducted with the help of pre-developed IEC material. 400 households (200 from each intervention and control sites) of SHG women were interviewed for baseline and end line each.Results: The planned intervention could make significant changes in level of awareness of the respondents about HIV/AIDS in terms of mode of spread, prevention and control measures and places to get tested for HIV/AIDS. This was also found effective to reduce the misconceptions regarding transmission of HIV/AIDS in the study area, thus in turn reducing the stigma attached with the disease.Conclusion: The awareness level about HIV/AIDS in rural areas among SHG women was very low and there is an urgent need and scope for development and implementation of effective interventions strategy to train local community worker which in turn can bring improvement in the knowledge of community by providing the information in culturally acceptable manner.
44th IAPSM National Conference Science City, Kolkata :10-12 February, 2017
Authors: Editor Chief
Published: October 2022

Indian Association of Preventive and Social Medicine, West Bengal Chapter will organise 44th Annual National Conference at Science City, Kolkata on 10-12 February, 2017.Theme of the conference is : â€œBuilding Partnership towards Sustainable Developmentâ€. It emphasizes revitalized Partnership in a spirit of solidarity to ensure Sustainable Development . Kolkata, with its rich Bengali cultural tradition, welcomes you to â€œIAPSMCON 2017â€ in the pleasant climes of February, 2017
Chronic arsenic poisoning and Hepatotoxicity
Authors: Majumdar Kunal Kanti
Published: October 2022

Arsenic (As) is a toxic and carcinogenic metalloid. Arsenic toxicity is a global health problem affecting many millions of people. Contamination is caused by arsenic from natural geological sources leaching into aquifers, contaminating drinking water and may also occur from mining and other industrial processes. Chronic arsenic poisoning, or arsenicosis, is typically defined by the classical skin manifestations, together with involvement of internal organs, such as liver injury, in the presence of known arsenic exposure. Probably, the most important concern with arsenic exposure is its carcinogenic potential. Epidemiologic studies have demonstrated an association between chronic arsenic exposure and cancer of the skin, lung, urinary bladder, and possibly liver, kidney, and prostate in humans. The epidemiological data for the skin, lung and urinary bladder are widely accepted as showing an etiological role for arsenic exposure, whereas other sites, such as liver, are considered more controversial. This article reevaluates epidemiology studies, rodent studies together with in vitro models, and focuses on the liver as a target organ of arsenic toxicity and carcinogenesis. Hepatocellular carcinoma and hepatic angiosarcoma, have been frequently associated with environmental or medicinal exposure to arsenicals. Hepatomegaly, hepatoportal sclerosis, fibrosis, and cirrhosis often occur after chronic arsenic exposure. There are a variety of potential mechanisms for arsenical-induced hepatocarcinogenesis, such as oxidative DNA damage, impaired DNA damage repair, acquired apoptotic tolerance, hyperproliferation, altered DNA methylation, and aberrant estrogen signaling. Some of these mechanisms may be liver specific/selective. Overall, accumulating evidence clearly indicates that the liver could be an important target of arsenic carcinogenesis.
Current perception about Leprosy among family members of leprosy patients: A comparative study between high prevalent & low prevalent districts of West Bengal
Authors: Mandal N K , Saha G
Published: October 2022

Introduction: With a sustained effort, India achieved the goal of elimination of leprosy in December, 2005 (PR-0.95/10,000). Since 2001, MDT services in India were integrated with the general health services, thus posing various operational challenges in programme management. With a view to maximize the effectiveness of health education programme, it needs to assess current status of perception and practices of the family members taking care of the patients of the most stigmatized disease so as to adopt appropriate changes accordingly. Aim(s)/Objective(s): To assess perception & attitude about leprosy among family members in both high & low endemic districts. Materials and Method: 25% of leprosy patients getting MDT in 25% blocks of 3 high prevalent & all patients in 25% blocks in 3 low prevalent districts of West Bengal, were initially selected by multi-stage random sampling technique, then family members taking care of the patients, were interviewed. Statistical Analysis: Proportions in respect of different attributes calculated & chi-square used as a test of significance. Results: Total 246 family members of the leprosy patients, 143 from high prevalent & 103 from low prevalent districts were interviewed. 95.5% & 60.1% of family members respectively have heard about leprosy & MDT. Correct knowledge about cause (38.5% vs 32% ), clinical presentation, curability (90% vs 84.5%), infectiousness of the disease(59.4% vs 31%), complication (67.1% vs 52.4%) were found more among family members of high prevalent districts than low prevalent one. 13.59% & 4.2% family members in high & low prevalent districts had belief that leprosy occurred as a result of divine curse. Discrimination towards leprosy patients were found more in low prevalent than high prevalent districts. Conclusions: Knowledge & attitude towards leprosy were found to be better among family members in high prevalent as compared to that of low prevalent districts.
Geriatric Women: An Unheard Voice
Authors: Singh T , Nagesh S , Ray T K , Sharma S
Published: October 2022

Background: Geriatric age group constitutes 8.3% of Indiaâ€™s population, with sex ratio in favour of elderly women by 1022:1000. Health problems of women in geriatric age in particular have not been explored reasonably and therefore little attention from health planners was made available for geriatric women across the developing countries including India. Objectives: 1.To assess the magnitude and pattern of health problems in geriatric women, 2. To find out relation between socio-demographic factors and health problems of subjects. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among geriatric women aged 60 years and above (n=512), residing at Kalyanpuri, a resettlement colony in Delhi. An interview in their local language with the help of a pre-structured and pre-tested proforma along with physical examination was carried out. Diagnosis was made on the basis of history, clinical examination and available treatment and/ or investigation reports. Data was analysed using SPSS version 12. For comparison of proportions, chi-square test was used. Results: Out of 512 geriatric women, 80% belonged to 60-69 years age group.74.8% reported one or more morbidities. On an average 4 morbidities were found in most of the subjects. The most prevalent morbidity was arthritis (46.9%) followed by cataract (42.0%), acid peptic disorder (35.4%), oro-dental problems (34.6%) and respiratory problems (22.1%). Among the socio-demographic variables, age, literacy status, marital status were significantly associated with morbidities (P<0.05). Conclusion: Very high prevalence of morbidities was found among geriatric women, in the study area. This indicates the need for an accessible, affordable, pro-elderly, comprehensive health services in the community.
A study on Medical studentsâ€™ opinions about faculty power point presentations during lecture
Authors: Sekhar K. Chandra , Rout Manas Ranjan , Rao K. Uma Maheswara
Published: October 2022

Background: With respect to a multimedia presentation, style refers both to the style of the writing and to the appearance of the slides. Nowadays many faculty members are using different varieties of presentations through power point to many students. Really what extent it is useful for improving their knowledge level, effectiveness of the method and suggestions for improvement. Hence, this study was designed to conduct among medical students. Objectives: 1. To find the opinions of medical students about faculty presentations during lecture. Materials and Methods: The present institutional based cross sectional study was conducted at Alluri Sita Ramaraju Academy of Medical Sciences, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, during the period from April 2016 to June 2016. A total of 125 individuals were selected from the one of the batch of Final MBBS, part-1 and randomly picked up this batch. Results were analysed and necessary statistical tests were applied. Results: Out of 125 study population, 58.4% were females and 41.6% were males. In the study population Only 46/125 (36.8%) students were opined faculty created interest during listening the class. Out of 125 students, 78 students opined that faculty members presented > 25 slides in their class. But there was no statistical difference was observed between number of slides and eye contact (P-0.32). About 90.4% students given opinion faculty taught relevant subject in their class. Very less proportion of faculty (25.6%) given mental breaks in the class during lecture. Conclusions: Based on the above study results, time taken by faculty is adequate, content delivered in the lecture is also good. But, only number of slides per class is more and mental breaks in the class is also less. In addition to regular practice, these changes also to be incorporated in their classes will give better output of the students in the areas of learning.
Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices among Tribal Population of a Tea Estate in Darjeeling District, West Bengal, India
Authors: Chakraborty Basundhara , Bhattacherjee Sharmistha , Ray Kuntala , Mukherjee Abhijit
Published: October 2022

Background: Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices play an instrumental role in the social and in turn the individual aspect of human life for promotion of good growth, health, behaviour and cognitive development of the child. Objectives: To find out the current Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices and their correlates among tribal children aged 0-23 months residing in a tea garden of Darjeeling district, West Bengal. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional descriptive study was undertaken among 109 children aged 0-23 months belonging to tribal parents. The mothers of the selected children were interviewed at their home with the help of a pre-tested pre-designed schedule and information on socio-demographic profile, feeding history and feeding practices of the study children was collected. In addition, anthropometric measurements were also done. Results: Among the infants aged below 6 months, breastfeeding was found to be universal. Initiation of complementary feed in the form of semi-solid/solid food was done before and after 6 months in 9.5% and 90.5% respectively among children aged 6-23 months. 44 % of the study population was found to have age-appropriate feeding practices. Conclusion: Infant and young child feeding practices were found to be quite poor in the tribal children. Interventions are needed to improve the knowledge of the mothers regarding the same.
Gender perspectives in ear care: A cross-sectional study in Delhi
Authors: Kohli Charu , Kadirvelu Udhayabashkaran , Garg Suneela
Published: October 2022

Background: Ear disease in children is a major public health problem in developing countries. There has been scarcity of evidence of any gender differentials if exist with ear care in the Indian context. Objective: To study the gender perspectives in ear care with regard to attitude and care seeking behaviour of care givers of children 1-10 years of age in Delhi. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted in an urban health centre situated in north east district of Delhi from January to March 2015. 160 caregivers of ill children aged 1-10 years who came to seek medical care in out-patient department (OPD) constituted the study population. Chi square test or Fisherâ€™s Exact test (wherever required) was used to observe the differences between qualitative variables.Results:The study was conducted among 160 caregivers of 87 (54.4%) male children and 73 (45.6%) female children. Mean (+SD) monthly family income was INR 7637.5 + 1155.30. When inquired about the attitude of caregivers about playing of their child with another child who is suffering from hearing loss, 18 (20.7%) caregivers of male children perceived that their child will also suffer from hearing loss while 30 (41.1%) caregivers of female children, agreed for the same (Ï‡2 = 7.87, df = 1, p value = 0.01). Conclusion: The present study showed gender differences in some aspects of ear care which points towards stigma and discrimination. There were important implications of differences in health seeking with gender.
Knowledge of Carcinoma Cervix among rural women of Reproductive age in Trichy district, India
Authors: Veerakumar A.M
Published: October 2022

Introduction and objectives: Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. It is imperative for women to be aware about the disease and its prevention. So this study was carried out to assess the knowledge of cervical cancer among women in rural areas of Trichy District. Materials and methods: Community Based- Cross sectional study was conducted in the months of February and March 2016 in the rural areas of Vellanur and Pullambadi with a sample size of 300. Only Reproductive age group women (15 years-45 years) were included. Convenient sampling method was used. Data were entered in Microsoft Excel and Analysed by using SPSS v20. Results: Out of the 300 women studied, 89% had heard about cervical cancer, of which only 12.73% had good knowledge on cervical cancer. Knowledge regarding symptoms, risk factors, cause, preventability, availability of screening tests and vaccines were 11.61%, 19.48%, 30.71%, 41.95%, 60.30% and 9.36% respectively. A significant association was found between knowledge of cervical cancer with younger age and with higher education. Conclusion: Knowledge among women in the study area was found to be low. To reduce the incidence of cervical cancer, awareness regarding the disease has to be created among the public.