bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal hemoglobin, blood transfusion, and retinopathy of prematurity in preterm infants: An observational, prospective study
Authors: Prasad Nishi , Kumar Kavita , Dubey Aditi
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to identify the association between fetal hemoglobin (HbF) concentration, blood transfusion, and retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in preterm infants.

Methods:

This was an observational, prospective study. A total of 410 preterm infants born with <36 weeks gestational age and <2.0 kg birth weight in a tertiary care center of central India for a period of 1 year were included in this study. Clinical data were obtained from case notes. HbF of infants was measured in the blood sample using high-performance liquid chromatography at the first visit and after 1 month follow-up and was analyzed statistically. Dilated fundus examination was done as per ROP screening guidelines, and ROP was classified as per the International Classification of Retinopathy of Prematurity (ICROP), 2021. The study subjects were divided into two groups based on the status of ROP. The relationship among HbF, blood transfusion, and ROP was evaluated in both the groups. The relationship between other clinical characteristics and various neonatal risk factors was also studied between the groups.

Results:

A total of 410 preterm infants were included in this study, of which 110 infants had ROP (26.8%). Blood transfusion was found to be significantly associated with the development of ROP. Higher fraction of HbF (%) was associated with a lower prevalence of ROP. HbF was also inversely related with the severity of ROP.

Conclusion:

Replacing HbF by adult hemoglobin during blood transfusion may promote the development of ROP. Conversely, maintaining a higher percentage of HbF may be a protective factor against ROP.
A cross-sectional study of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on an ophthalmology consult service in four Michigan community hospitals
Authors: Beckman Jamie J , Webster Court R , Richardson Cole , Fullmer Matthew , Kendall Emerson , Hazariwala Vikisha , Bondira Inna , Nguyen Brian , Gao Mary , Speicher Mark , Aggarwal Himanshu
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, private practice, inpatient consult services, and academic residency programs in ophthalmology saw a decrease in patient encounters. This study elucidates how community hospital ophthalmology consult (OC) services were affected during the pandemic. We aim to determine whether there was a change in resident OC volume in a community-based ophthalmology program consult service during the COVID-19 pandemic. Secondary objectives included analyzing the change in the types of diagnoses and the number of patients seen for diabetic retinopathy over the same time.

Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted reviewing the electronic health record (EHR) charts from OCs for the period 2017–2021. Records were categorized by referral source and the nature of OCs (trauma, acute, or chronic); OCs were further grouped by year and weak of referral. An intermonth analysis of weekly OC counts in each category was performed for the average number of consults in February–April 2017–2019 and for February–April 2020. A one-tailed t-test was performed. All t-tests assumed equal variances.

Results:

Weekly OCs in 2020 revealed no statistically significant differences in overall cases or in acute or chronic cases when the volume before the COVID-19 pandemic was compared to the volume after the onset of the pandemic. However, a statistically significant increase in the average weekly trauma cases was noted when 2020 (an average of 2.7 cases per week) was compared to the weekly average for the same weeks of years 2017– 2019 (0.4; P = 0.016). This statistically significant increase in trauma in 2020 disappeared when comparing weeks 11–17 in 2020 (2.2 cases per week) and the average of 2017–2019 (1.1).

Conclusion:

This report outlines no significant change in OCs before and after the onset of the pandemic compared to three previous years. There was, however, an increase in trauma consults during the pandemic and an increase in the number (though not the proportion) of diabetic retinopathy (DR+) patients seen by residents. This report uniquely describes no significant changes in the resident volume of patients seen during the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Biomechanical Risk Factors of the Upper Limbs’ Musculoskeletal Disorders among Carpet Weavers in Tunisia: Semi-Quantitative Ergonomic Assessment
Authors: Bouzgarrou Lamia , Kheder Asma , Ben Afia Latifa , Ormrane Amira , Hermassi Faten
Published: July 2023

Background:

Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common occupational health problems and one of the leading causes of temporary disability. This study aimed to assess the biomechanical constraints of upper limb musculoskeletal disorders associated with Tunisian weavers’ tasks.

Methodology:

An ergonomic approach was adopted with a representative sample of Tunisian weavers. First, the activity was observed mainly for identifying tasks and sub-tasks. Then, the biomechanical constraints were assessed based on the Borg scale and the software analyses and encoding of the 2,000 images extracted from the activity video recordings. These analyses were done with the ERGOROM software.

Results:

Four main tasks were identified (warping of the loom, weaving itself, beating up, and finishing). As for the subtasks, the six most important were thread coiling, shedding and picking, beating up the weft, knotting, cutting, and shearing. Semi-quantitative analysis revealed that weavers spent most of their working time in the constrained neck and upper limb postures. Shoulders were in flexion/abduction during 68.6% of the activity and pinch grip was spread over 83.3% of the working time. Furthermore, elbows and wrists were highly concerned by elevated gestural variability scores. The estimated deployed strength was “medium” to “strong” in 50% to nearly 80% of cases.

Conclusion:

According to the results, in carpet weavers, exposure to biomechanical constraints at risk of musculoskeletal disorders was high for the various joints and parts of the upper limbs. It is, therefore, necessary to carry out interventional studies for the development of ergonomic hand tools and workstations adapted to the traditional weaver activity.
The Effects of Yoga Practice on Lung Function and sIL-2R Biomarkers in Individuals Working and Living in the Lonavala Industrial Area: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rajbhoj Pratibha H. , Pathak Satish D. , Patil Sucheta N.
Published: July 2023

Context:

Pollution-related health hazards are very common among people living and/or working in industrial areas, particularly near industries and metro cities. These air pollutants contribute to allergens, increase inflammation, and affect lung function.

Aim:

The present study aimed to examine the effect of yoga training on lung functions and inflammation in terms of soluble interleukin-2 receptor (sIL-2R) in people working and living in a polluted area.

Settings and Design:

This is a randomized controlled interventional pilot study.

Methods and Materials:

Forty-eight male volunteers from the industrial area, aged 20–50 years, were randomly assigned to the experimental group and the control group. Each group comprises 24 study participants. Lung function and sIL-2R were studied at the baseline and post-yoga intervention period of 16 weeks.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Study data were analyzed using descriptive methods, a one-tailed t-test, a paired t-test, and an independent t-test.

Result:

Study results showed directional and significant improvements in forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in the first second, and peak expiratory flow rate compared to the control group participants. The results pertaining to sIL-2R showed a directional and significant decrease in the experimental group compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

The present study showed that yoga helps to promote better health, improve lung function and reduce inflammation among people residing in polluted environments.
Aluminum as a Possible Cause Toward Dyslipidemia
Authors: Gaur Archana , Nayak Prasunpriya , Ghosh Sutirtha , Sengupta Trina , Sakthivadivel Varatharajan
Published: July 2023

Aluminum, the third most abundant metal present in the earth’s crust, is present almost in all daily commodities we use, and exposure to it is unavoidable. The interference of aluminum with various biochemical reactions in the body leads to detrimental health effects, out of which aluminum-induced neurodegeneration is widely studied. However, the effect of aluminum in causing dyslipidemia cannot be neglected. Dyslipidemia is a global health problem, which commences to the cosmic of non-communicable diseases. The interference of aluminum with various iron-dependent enzymatic activities in the tri-carboxylic acid cycle and electron transport chain results in decreased production of mitochondrial adenosine tri-phosphate. This ultimately contributes to oxidative stress and iron-mediated lipid peroxidation. This mitochondrial dysfunction along with modulation of α-ketoglutarate and L-carnitine perturbs lipid metabolism, leading to the atypical accumulation of lipids and dyslipidemia. Respiratory chain disruption because of the accumulation of reduced nicotinamide adenine di-nucleotide as a consequence of oxidative stress and the stimulatory effect of aluminum exposure on glycolysis causes many health issues including fat accumulation, obesity, and other hepatic disorders. One major factor contributing to dyslipidemia and enhanced pro-inflammatory responses is estrogen. Aluminum, being a metalloestrogen, modulates estrogen receptors, and in this world of industrialization and urbanization, we could corner down to metals, particularly aluminum, in the development of dyslipidemia. As per PRISMA guidelines, we did a literature search in four medical databases to give a holistic view of the possible link between aluminum exposure and various biochemical events leading to dyslipidemia.
Determinants of Workplace Productivity Decline in the Tunisian Onshore Oil and Gas Industry
Authors: Imen Ayadi , Nehla Rmadi , Imen Sellami , Nada Kotti , Mounira Hajjaji , Ahmed Rebai
Published: July 2023

Background:

This study explored the impact of occupational stress, personal factors, and physical conditions on work productivity decline (WPD) among workers in the Tunisian onshore oil and gas industry.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional survey among 246 onshore oil installation workers of a Tunisian private oil company. 94 employees (48%) participated in this study. We used the Job Content Questionnaire to evaluate occupational stress and the Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire to assess the WPD.

Results:

Data were analysed using R software. This study exclusively included male workers, with an average age of 41.1 ± 9.5 years. Binary logistic regression analysis identified low social support and job-strain situation as the most associated risk factors (OR >3). The random forest model suggested that professional category, job-strain situation, low social support, and iso-strain situation were the most important variables in predicting WPD.

Conclusion:

These data provided evidence that petroleum workers faced a monotonous lifestyle in the workplace, leading to high levels of occupational stress that affected their work productivity. This study is the first in Tunisia in the oil sector.
Evaluation the Effect of Serum Lead Levels on Thyroid Function in Battery Industry Workers
Authors: Rahimpour Farzaneh , Abdollahi Orang , Rafeemanesh Ehsan , Niroumand Shabnam
Published: July 2023

Objective:

To assess the relationships between blood lead levels and thyroid functional tests in battery industry workers.

Methods and Materials:

This cross-sectional study was performed on 100 personnel of a battery factory in 2019. The checklist including demographic information of employees (age, sex, work experience, smoking, etc.) of the work shift, work environment, and duration of work was completed. Venous blood samples were also taken from the participants to check blood levels of lead and thyroid hormones.

Results:

The mean age of participants was 36.1 ± 5.6 years and their mean TSH and lead levels were 3.69 ± 2.45 mIU/L and 297.9 ± 174.2 μg/L, respectively. Participants were divided into two groups based on job duties: administrative and working in the production line. Participants were divided into two groups based on blood lead levels: normal (less than 300 μg/L) and high lead level (more than 300 μg/L). Only the work experience between these two groups was significantly different and was higher in the high lead group compared to the normal lead group and no significant difference was observed between different groups based on lead level in terms of TSH level and thyroid hormones.

Conclusion:

Our study showed that although the amount of whole blood lead concentration is not related to thyroid hormone levels and thyroid function, but with increasing work experience, the amount of whole blood lead also increases significantly and since lead poisoning can have many health hazards, employers must plan to minimize the lead exposure of workers and provide protective equipment for workers.
Prevalence and Antibiotic Resistance of ESKAPE Pathogens Isolated from Patients with Bacteremia in Tehran, Iran
Authors: Emamie Amir , Zolfaghari Pouria , Zarei Atefe , Ghorbani Mahdi
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

The ESKAPE acronym refers to a group of deadly hospital-acquired pathogens, including Enterococcus faecium, Staphylococcus aureus, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Acinetobacter baumannii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterobacter spp. These organisms can evade antibacterial drugs and pose a significant threat to public health. This study investigated the prevalence and antimicrobial resistance of ESKAPE pathogens in patients with bacteremia.

Methods:

We collected 412 blood samples from patients diagnosed with bacteremia. The ESKAPE isolates were subjected to multidrug-resistant (MDR), extensively drug-resistant (XDR), extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), metallo-β-lactamase (MBL), methicillin-resistant S. aureus (MRSA), and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE) by the disk diffusion and E-test methods. In the case of VRE, molecular detection was done for vanA and vanB genes.

Results:

A total of 270 ESKAPE isolates were identified. The frequency of S. aureus was 30%, A. baumannii 22%, P. aeruginosa 17%, K. pneumoniae 13%, E. aerogenes 10.3%, and E. faecium 7.7%. MRSA was 71% and VRE was 19%. ESBL- and MBL-producing strains of A. baumannii were found to account for 39%, P. aeruginosa for 35.7% and 28.2%, and K. pneumoniae for 25.7% and 17.1%. In total, MDR and XDR were present in 52.2% and 15.5% of isolates and were most prevalent in E. aerogenes, A. baumannii, and P. aeruginosa. The vanA gene was detected in all 19% of E. faecium isolates that were VRE.

Conclusions:

Antibiotic resistance is widespread among ESKAPE pathogens, particularly in patients with bacteremia. Health-care professionals must consider the increasing rates of antibiotic resistance among ESKAPE pathogens and implement new measures to control infections.
Sudden and Unexpected Seizure during Emergency Cesarean Section in a Nonhypertensive Hypothyroid Primigravida
Authors: Kausik J , Divya D , Parthasarathy S
Published: July 2023

A 29-year-old primigravida parturient at term with a known case of hypothyroidism for the past 1 year was taken for emergency cesarean section in view of fetal distress. The patient's medical history showed a history of galactorrhea, for which magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and the routine blood investigations were normal. The parturient was posted for emergency cesarean section due to fetal distress. There was no significant comorbid illness or illicit drug intake. All the basic investigations including the thyroid-stimulating hormone were normal. Spinal anesthesia with 2.0 ml of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine to achieve a level of T6 was performed. After the delivery of the fetus, there was a sudden seizure occurred, and the mother lost her consciousness. The hemodynamics remained stable. The patient was given oxygen, 2 mg of intravenous midazolam, and magnesium sulfate by the Pritchard regimen. The newborn's Apgar scores were normal. She had no recollection of the seizure attack after regaining consciousness and normal spontaneous respiration which occurred in a few minutes. Breastfeeding was recommended. To avoid another seizure episode, the Pritchard regimen was followed. The recovery period was uneventful. A cranial computed tomography scan of the brain was also performed, which revealed no abnormalities. Serum electrolytes were within the normal range when tested again. This case is being reported to raise awareness of seizures in nonhypertensive patients.
Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding in Children
Authors: Kumar Narender , Narang Manish , Aggarwal Anju , Sharma Naveen
Published: July 2023

Background:

Bleeding per rectum is a fairly common clinical problem in children. Gastrointestinal infections, anal fissures, and polyps are the most common causes. However, many cases remain undiagnosed due to the nonavailability of diagnostic modalities. This prospective hospital-based study was designed to study clinical profiles and outcomes in children with lower gastrointestinal bleeding.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty-six children (1–12 years) presenting with bleeding per rectum were enrolled in the study. History and detailed examination were recorded. Investigations were done on basis of the clinical scenario. Children with bleeding per rectum were analyzed for demographic profile, clinical presentation, etiology, diagnostic investigations, and outcome in bleeding per rectum.

Results and Observations:

Anal fissure (67.3%) was the most common cause followed by colorectal polyp (16.4%), nonspecific colitis (7.3%), invasive amoebiasis (1.8%), intussusception (1.8%), and rectal mucosal prolapse (1.8%). Colonoscopy was diagnostic in 73% of children.

Conclusion:

Anal fissures and colorectal polyps are the most common noninfective cause of bleeding per rectum. Undiagnosed chronic cases of bleeding per rectum can result in complications such as anemia and malnutrition. The availability of diagnostic modalities can help in early diagnosis and treatment for better outcomes.
Systemic Inflammation Response Index and Systemic Immune Inflammation Index for Predicting Acute Cholecystitis
Authors: Yildiz Günay , Selvi Fatih , Bedel Cihan , Zortuk Ökkes , Korkut Mustafa , Mutlucan Umut Ogün
Published: July 2023

Objective:

Acute cholecystitis (AC) is a condition caused by acute inflammation of gallbladder. Many inflammatory markers are frequently used in the diagnostic process. In this study, we wanted to show the diagnostic efficacy of the systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI) and systemic immune inflammation index (SII) in patients with AC.

Methods:

This retrospective study was conducted in subjects diagnosed with AC between January 1, 2020, and June 1, 2022. The control group was randomly selected from subjects who attended to the emergency department with abdominal pain and did not need hospitalization, among subjects of similar age and gender to our study group. Demographic data and laboratory parameters of the patients were collected.

Results:

One hundred and thirty-three AC patients who met the inclusion criteria were included. Eighty-five patients with similar demographic data were included as a control group. The mean median SIRI levels of the patients were significantly higher than the control group (2.88 vs. 1.35; P < 0.001). In addition, the median SII levels of the patients were found to be significantly higher than the control group (1019.42 vs. 573.80; P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

We found that SIRI and SII are markers that can be used diagnostically in patients with AC and can be used as an option to C-reactive protein.
Awake Fiberoptic Intubation
Authors: Prasad T. Krishna , Kumar C. Dhinesh , Devi Abinaya , Narayanan S. Vijay
Published: July 2023

We may have many devices in this 21st century, which can be used to secure the airway in patients who have been predicted to have a difficult airway. There are many studies about difficult airways and suggested various devices such as flexible fiberoptic scope, video laryngoscope, and the specialized intubating laryngeal mask airway and they ended up concluding one device better than another. Furthermore, ET intubation requires continued practice and carries with it its own set of complications. Technical problems with the placement of endotracheal tubes have been the most frequent cause of anesthetic deaths in published analyses from all over the world. The basic responsibility of an anesthesiologist is to maintain adequate gas exchange in patients by securing a patent airway through a proper device. Fiberoptic bronchoscopy and intubation have the advantage of being easier, with shorter intubation time and continuous oxygenation and ventilation throughout the procedure, especially in the case of children. We report two such cases, where “Awake flexible fiberoptic-guided intubation” was considered the only desirable choice.
Development and Preliminary Evaluation of the CHARUSAT Patellofemoral Arthritis Questionnaire
Authors: Patel Heta Pavan , Muruganantham Balaganapathy
Published: July 2023

Background:

Knee osteoarthritis is one of the leading causes of the increasing global burden of musculoskeletal disorders. The prevalence rate of patellofemoral arthritis is 39% in South Asia in >40 years of age. The census on early osteoarthritis recommends focusing on the prediagnostic stage. However, none of the tools is available to screen the early symptoms of patellofemoral arthritis.

Purpose of the Study:

The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate the psychometric properties of the CHARUSAT Patellofemoral Arthritis Questionnaire.

Methods:

The questionnaire was developed using a mixed method stepwise approach. The participant with early patellofemoral arthritis (n = 14) was interviewed. We conducted scoping review and in-depth interviews to develop a conceptual framework. Initial content validation was completed through community consultation and expert opinion. Final psychometric validation was conducted on n = 310 individuals with early patellofemoral arthritis. Participants were recruited from tertiary hospitals' outpatient units and regional communities in India.

Results:

Conceptual framework was developed based on the current literature review, and qualitative data obtained from participants finalized the 4 domains and 12 content versions: crepitus (2 items), stiffness (2 items), pain (2 items), and difficulty in functional activity (6 items). The psychometric measurement demonstrated good internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha α was 0.90 and an acceptable level of inter-item redundancy. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) value for the test and retest assessment was 0.93 (ICC:2,1; 95% confidence interval = 0.880–0.936; P < 0.000). Principal component analysis demonstrates a four-factor solution with 56.83% total variance.

Conclusions:

It is an acceptable, reliable, and valid self-administered questionnaire that can identify the early symptoms of patellofemoral arthritis. The questionnaire provides an excellent opportunity for self-analysis of the symptoms at the community level.
Loss-to-follow-up Rate among Tuberculosis Patients Registered at Two Tuberculosis Units of Ballabgarh Block of District Faridabad, Haryana
Authors: Khaitan Anwita , Rai Sanjay K. , Krishnan Anand , Gupta Sanjeev Kumar , Kant Shashi , Khilnani Gopi Chand
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Treatment loss-to-follow-up (LTFU) is a great obstacle to tuberculosis (TB) elimination. Our objective was to estimate its prevalence in district Faridabad, Haryana, and to see its association with selected variables.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a desk review of TB notification registers of two TB units under a district TB center, Faridabad. All patients registered between October 1, 2016, and September 30, 2017, were analyzed. Following univariate analysis, factors with P < 0.2 were included in the multivariable logistic regression model.

Results:

Of 999 eligible patients, 742 (74.2%) had treatment outcomes available. LTFU was estimated to be 3.5%, with cumulative incidence calculated to be 6.63 LTFUs per 100 person-years. LTFU increased with increasing age. LTFU was 5.2% (9.8 LTFUs per 100 person-years) and 0.3% (0.6 LTFUs per 100 person-years) among pulmonary TB (PTB) and extra-PTB (EPTB) patients, respectively. LTFU was higher in patients with previous relapse (9% or 14.2 LTFU per 100 person-years) and previous LTFU (16% or 32 LTFUs per 100 person-years) as compared to only 2.4% (4.7 per 100 person-years) among new patients. PTB patients and patients on treatment after prior LTFU had 12 times and 5 times higher odds of LTFU than EPTB patients and new patients, respectively.

Conclusion:

The observed LTFU burden is lower than the <5% target set by the National TB Elimination Program. Lack of information on outcomes under the program should be cause for concern. Special attention should be paid under the program on high-risk groups identified to ensure treatment adherence.
Study of Serum Zinc Level in Liver Cirrhosis and its Correlation with Stages of Hepatic Encephalopathy
Authors: Hiwarkar Suraj Ramesh , Holay Madhuri Prashant , Bhiwagade Rahul , Patil Prashant
Published: July 2023

Background:

Zinc increases the natural defense of reactive oxygen radicals; Zinc also acts as an antioxidant, an anti-apoptotic agent, a cofactor for DNA synthesis, and an anti-inflammatory agent. Hence, deficient zinc levels seem to have an effect in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy (HE).

Aims:

This prospective observational study was done to assess serum zinc levels in cases of liver cirrhosis with decompensated liver disease (DCLD) and to see the correlation of serum zinc levels with stages of HE and patients' outcome.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational study was conducted at a tertiary care institution in Central India. Total 66 cases of liver cirrhosis with DCLD were studied. Fifty healthy controls were enrolled. All cases were evaluated for serum zinc levels, and all were divided further according to the class of liver cirrhosis and stages of HE. The association between serum zinc level and stages of HE and outcome was studied. The data were analyzed with SPSS software version 22.

Results:

The mean age of the cases at presentation was 45.67 ± 8.73 years. The M: F ratio was 10:1. The mean serum zinc level in controls was 104.16 ± 22.60 μg/dl, while in cases, it was 47.68 ± 16.72 μg/dl. It was significantly low in cases as compared to the controls, P < 0.0001. An inverse correlation was observed between serum zinc and West Haven classification grading of HE. There was found a direct correlation between serum zinc level and serum albumin. The lesser the serum albumin, the lesser the serum zinc level. P <0.0001 was highly significant. The mean serum zinc level was 57.67 μg/dl in survivors 40 cases (60.61%) as compared to 32.30 μg/dl in nonsurvivors 26 (39.30%). Low serum zinc level was associated with high mortality. P <0.0001 was statistically highly significant.

Conclusion:

Low serum zinc is associated with cirrhosis of the liver, DCLD, and high incidence of HE. Hence, all patients of cirrhosis liver with hypoalbuminemia and HE should be evaluated for low serum zinc. Low serum zinc in HE was associated with high mortality. The present study could not establish a causal relationship between low serum zinc and liver cirrhosis with DCLD having HE. Whether correction of zinc in these cases can prevent worsening, HE needs further evaluation.
An in vitro study to evaluate the fracture resistance of different types of posts
Authors: Gupta Anuj , Gupta Anshu , Agarwal Preeti , Vasant Jill , Ahuja Ruhi , Mangla Neha
Published: July 2023

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fracture resistance of endodontically treated maxillary central incisors restored with carbon fiber and glass fiber posts under static loading and evaluate their modes of failure.

Materials and Methods:

Sixty freshly extracted human maxillary central incisors were collected and root canal treatment was performed in all. Forty out of 60 teeth were sectioned 4 mm away from the cemento–enamel junction coronally and posts were placed in them. Rest 20 teeth were left intact to be used as controls. The groups were divided as follows: I—control group, II—carbon fiber group, and III— glass fiber group,

All specimens were then mounted on an acrylic test block and subjected to static loading until fracture and the mode of fracture were recorded. Statistical analysis was carried out using analysis of variance (ANOVA) to calculate the mean values of all groups. An intergroup comparison was carried out using Tukey’s post hoc test.

Results:

The study showed that group I showed the highest fracture resistance followed by group III, which was the glass fiber post group under static loading. There was a significant difference among the test groups. The main cause of fracture was debonding of the core in all the fiber posts.

Conclusion:

Teeth of the control group showed the highest fracture resistance and teeth restored with glass fiber posts showed higher fracture resistance than those restored with carbon fiber posts under static loading (P < 0.05). The principal mode of fracture was debonding of the core and remaining root. Teeth restored without application of a post showed the highest fracture resistance than all other groups.
The new routine in orthodontic practice post-COVID-19 pandemic: A questionnaire study
Authors: Patel Arva , Desai Bhagyashree , Shah Rutvi , Shah Aakash , Patel Vishal , Pandya Pratik
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

The existing screening process of patients and sterilization protocols followed in routine Orthodontic practice have proven to be incapable of limiting the exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Newer and more sophisticated protocols are established and being followed to provide maximum safety to everyone involved in orthodontic procedure. This survey was done to assess knowledge and overall preparedness of orthodontists towards the changes made in the daily Orthodontic practice due to COVID-19 pandemic.

Method:

An online questionnaire in English language consisting of 17 close ended questions was circulated amongst the Orthodontists across different regions of India. It contained questions regarding various aspects such as personal safety, psychological and financial burden, and patients’ responses to delay in treatment. Out of 90 questionnaires that were circulated, 70 responses were received that matched the inclusion criteria. Forms were filled directly onto the Google-form platform online.

Results:

Number and percentage were used to compute results on categorical measurements. SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) (Version 22.0) software was then used to perform statistical analyses. Chi-square test was used to compare the difference in the distribution of responses for the questionnaire. The level of significance (p-value) was set at p < 0.0001.

Conclusion:

All the respondents emphasized the need for diligent sterilization protocols; spirit, natural ventilation, gloves, mask and face shield along with patient screening was given utmost importance. Orthodontic emergencies were present and virtual orthodontic consultation emerged as a useful tool. Patients’ response to impact of lockdown in on-going treatment was largely negative to neutral. All the responses were statistically significant except personal hygiene and disinfection protocols.
Medication safety climate from the perspectives of healthcare providers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Farzi Sedigheh , Farzi Kolsoum , Shahzeydi Amir , Saraeian Samaneh , Moladoost Azam , Pebdeni Atefeh Saljooghi
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Medication safety as an indicator of care quality is the measures taken by healthcare team members to prevent or adjust adverse drug events at the time of medication administration. This study was conducted to investigate the medication safety climate from healthcare providers' perspectives.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in a selected educational hospital affiliated with the Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran, in 2021. Participants were healthcare providers who are involved in the medication process. The sampling was done using the quota method. The study instruments were a demographic questionnaire and the Medication Safety Climate (MSC).

RESULTS:

The total mean of positive responses to MSC items was 64.11%, denoting a moderate-level MSC. Collected data were managed using the SPSS software (v. 16.0) and were summarized using the measures of descriptive statistics, namely mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage. The lowest and the highest dimensional mean scores were related to the management support for medication safety dimension (mean: 48.42%) and the Teamwork dimension (mean: 80.43%), respectively.

CONCLUSION:

Managers' inattention and insufficient understanding of safety provide the basis for medication errors and threaten patient safety. Healthcare team members are highly motivated to provide quality and safe care by observing the managers' positive performance regarding patient safety. To improve the medication safety climate, healthcare team members are required to work in a safe workplace and have sufficient job satisfaction. Health center managers need to employ a proactive approach to prevent errors.
Role of jargon in the patient–doctor communication in the dental healthcare sector—A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kumar Mohan P. , Nagate Raghavendra Reddy , Alqahtani Saad Mohammad , Sarma Sankar Narayana G , Supraja S
Published: July 2023

Medical terminology is useful for better communication between medical and dental professionals. Overzealous use of this terminology and use of medical terms during patient interaction hamper the complete understanding of the doctor's explanation about their health status. Nowadays, the usage of abbreviations or short terminology in health sectors has become common during all stages like the patient's initial visit, during the diagnosis, and even during the treatment plan stage. The objective was to know the commonly used jargon in the dental profession and to know the effect of the commonly used jargon on patient–doctor communication and treatment outcomes. Three major scientific databases were used as search engines PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus by following three main search criteria, the common use of jargon in the dental profession, effect of jargon on patient–doctor communication, and treatment outcomes. An approach to meta-synthesis was used in the qualitative research methodology. With the Sandelowski and Barroso approach, meta-synthesis was carried out. Following database searches, during the years 2001 to 2022, 424 studies were gathered. Ten sources were then chosen and used in the analysis stage. Usage of jargon in dental professions has an effect on patient–doctor communication, and to an extent, it also has an effect on the treatment plan which further has its effect on treatment outcome. The correlation ratio (COR) of frequency of jargon is 0.46 (0.34; 0.57), with P value <0.0001, which indicates the presence of these issues in dental healthcare sector. The cautious use of jargon within the health profession will be beneficial in terms of professional communication with the patients and also helps in rendering better treatment to the patients.
Nutritional vitamin D supplementation in chronic hemodialysis: An uncontrolled open-label trial
Authors: Shahidi Shahrzad , Mortazavi Mojgan , Bakhtiari Mina Bakhshali , Mirhoseini Mohammad Sajjad , Ghasemi Golsa
Published: July 2023

The present study was evaluated by the incidence of vitamin D deficiency and management of hemodialysis (HD) patients with low doses of vitamin D over 6 months. This uncontrolled open-label trial was fulfilled in descriptive and then analytical phases from 2008 to 2010 recruiting chronic HD patients in our province. For this purpose, 169 patients undergoing regular HD were randomly selected and their vitamin D level was measured. Then, 54 patients with vitamin D levels less than 30 ng/mL entered the second phase. This group received 50,000 IU vitamin D3 monthly for 6 months. The mean vitamin D level in 169 patients was 21.73 ± 20.27 ng/mL. As well, 62.7% had vitamin D levels less than 30 ng/mL. Following the six-month intervention, mean vitamin D levels elevated significantly from 17.03 ± 7.4 to 42.8 ± 16.9 ng/mL (P < .0001). In this study, the incidence rate of vitamin D deficiency was 62.7%, lower than that in previous research in patients undergoing chronic HD. Vitamin D3 administration at lower doses than healthy people could significantly increase vitamin D level.
Prevalence of activity limitation and its associated predictor among the elderly in Tamil Nadu, India: A community-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Peter Roshni M. , Palanisamy Kaveri , Kumar Dhasarathi , Joseph Alex
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Functional disability develops in a dynamic and progressive manner. As people age, their health problems worsen and they lose the ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as dressing, using the toilet, bathing, and eating. With a better understanding of the underlying risk factors and the related mechanisms of the disablement process, it is possible to make more effective and more efficient programs to prevent or delay the onset of disability in older people.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A community-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was carried out among 453 elderly from Tamil Nadu, India. A door-to-door interview was used to administer the Katz Index of Independence on ADL. Simple random selection was employed to select the study individuals. To determine the association for particular risk factors, Chi-squared test and binary logistic regression were used.

RESULTS:

First, our study findings show the prevalence of activity limitation among the elderly using the The Katz Index of Independence. This study shows that the prevalence of activity limitation was 23% among the elderly. Seventy-seven percent had no significant limitations: they are independent. There is a statistically significant association between activity limitation as opposed to gender, visual impairment, depression, urinary incontinence, unintentional injury in the past year, and alcohol consumption.

CONCLUSION:

The study found that the self-reported prevalence of activity limitation was 23% among the elderly and 77% had no significant limitations. The Katz Index of Independence in activities of daily living may be used as a handy tool to identify the activity limitation in community-based checkups.
Evaluation of quality assurance for school health services in primary health care centers at Al-Numaniyah District. Iraq
Authors: Washi Ghassan A. , Saadoon Naji Y.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

School Health Services (SHS) is commonly considered to be one of the more crucial parts of the health program in schools, and they are responsible for the students' overall health. Active school health services aid in the early detection and prevention of illnesses among students. SHS are those that are worried with the health and educational attainment of students at an appropriate age by providing direct services of health care to students in coordination with the administration and staff of the school.

AIMS:

To evaluate the quality assurance for school health services in all essential components as structure, process, and outcome and identify the correlation between them.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive study consists of (171) respondent selected by convenient sample distributed on (6) main primary health care centers, (32) health and nursing staff, and (133) consumers (school principals) at Al-Numaniya district from July 5, 2022 to January 25, 2023. Questionnaire comprised of three forms distributed on structure, process, and outcome data, which were collected by interview and researcher observation with directors of main primary health care centers, health and nursing staff, and school principals and through the use of a descriptive statistical (frequencies, percentages, statistical mean) and inferential (Pearson correlation coefficient) and the data were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Showed overall evaluation of the quality assurance related to structure standards of primary health care centers PHCs was fair (66.7%). Regarding process standards showed that 50.0% of the nurses' staff expressed a fair activity and duties. On the other hand, regarding outcome showed that 64.7% of the school principals expressed somehow satisfied toward elementary school health care services.

CONCLUSIONS:

Overall evaluation of quality assurance regarding school health services in PHCs was fair as described by moderate average in all essential components as structure, process, and outcome. It also showed a significant positive correlation between outcomes of quality assurance for school health services and regard structure of PHCs.

RECOMMENDATIONS:

Ministry of Education and Health can benefit from the study to identify the strengths and weaknesses in the structure of PHCs. Equipping health centers with essential supplies such as computers, vaccines, eye glasses, and laboratory materials PHCs to provide integrated services for students.
Quality of life in patients with alcohol use disorders admitted to de-addiction centers using WHOQOL-BREF scale—A cross-sectional study
Authors: Colaco Ashwini S. , Mayya Arun , Noronha Caitlyn , Mayya Shreemathi S.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Alcohol use disorders (AUDs) adversely affect a person's general health and the lives of their family and friends. These disorders are also the most undertreated mental illness with severe implications for public health. Hence, the present study aimed to employ the WHOQOL-BREF to assess the quality of life (QoL) of AUDs patients seeking treatment at de-addiction centers and identify the demographic variables associated with the QoL dimension scores.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among alcohol dependents taking treatment in de-addiction centers in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka. The WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire was administered to 124 subjects. Multiple regression analysis was carried out to identify the demographic variables associated with the QoL dimension scores.

RESULTS:

The domain mean scores were between 50 and 60 on the 0 to 100 scale. Age, social class, residential area, marital status, and years of drinking were the demographic variables found to be significantly associated with the dimension scores.

CONCLUSIONS:

Physicians should monitor the effect of alcoholism on QoL, and a multidisciplinary treatment plan with elements from the medical, social, and psychiatric fields should be used. The demographic variables should be considered while managing patients with AUDs.
It's time to increase physical activity promotion among pregnant women in France
Authors: Ruart Shelly , Sinnapah Stéphane , Hue Olivier , Antoine-Jonville Sophie
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

The lockdown linked to COVID-19 was shown to have negative effects on healthy behaviors in the general population, prompting the implementation of adapted public health measures. However, more vulnerable populations, such as pregnant women, were not specifically taken into account. At the time of writing this study, we know little about how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted the physical activity (PA) behavior of pregnant women in France. Given the many reports in the literature about women's low level of PA throughout pregnancy and the negative effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on behaviors in the general population; however, we might assume that their sedentary behaviors increased. The current study aimed to analyze the French recommendations and PA promotion among pregnant women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A literature search was done using PubMed for the key terms “physical activity/physical activity promotion,” “pregnant women/pregnancy,”, and “French population/France.” All the relevant studies were included to support the argument for this narrative review.

RESULTS:

Efforts to promote PA for pregnant women often seem ineffective and even unrealistic, and many women become overweight or obese during pregnancy. Health professionals need evidence-based guidelines and continuous training and skills development in order to convincingly encourage women to be more active during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

CONCLUSION:

Health policies should strengthen PA promotion among pregnant women with detailed evidence-based guidelines on PA during postpartum.
An explanation on the process of production to the utilization of patient education media in chronic diseases in Iran: Protocol for a grounded theory study
Authors: Amini Faezeh , Khorasani Parvaneh , Ashrafi-rizi Hasan
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Chronic diseases are always considered one of the most critical challenges of the health system in any country. Patient education on self-care is one of the basic strategies in controlling the disease process and minimizing complications in patients with chronic diseases. It seems that in the process of patient education, from the preparation of materials to their delivery to the final user, many problems prevent the proper and practical education. The study aims to explain the process of production to the utilization of patient education media in chronic diseases in Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study employs a grounded theory (GT) methodology and the data will be analyzed by Strauss and Corbin method. Participants in this study include groups involved in the field of patient education, including policymakers, managers at all management levels, clinical, educational, and public health service providers (physicians, nurses, medical librarians, medical, and nursing professors, NGOs in the field of patient education, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and psychologists) as well as service receivers such as patients, their family, and caregivers whom will be all selected through theoretical as well as snowball sampling method. The interview method will be semi-structured and will not be ceased until the data is saturated.

CONCLUSIONS:

It is anticipated that in this study, the pros and cons of the process of production to utilization of patient education media will be identified and appropriate solutions to improve this process will be provided.