bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronavirus disease-2019
Authors: Khlem Riwanka , Kannappan Sujatha R. , Choudhury Papori Pathak
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The human coronavirus was first identified in 1965, belongs to the same family of Viruses as SARS, MERS-Co. The current virus that affected worldwide came into existence in late 2019, recently found in Wuhan, China, and caused a global pandemic called coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19). This disease became a quick global pandemic due to the rapid transmission of the virus from one human to another. In the history of humankind, people were inside the four walls for more than a month. The COVID-19 pandemic has posed significant problems in a variety of fields. The current pandemic created many changes that are seen as challenges worldwide. However, it created opportunities and benefits for many, extend a helping hand towards the people in need, in the society, community, and the nation. This paper focuses on challenges, opportunities, and benefits during the (COVID-19) pandemic in India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Online search engines like PubMed and Google Scholar were used to conduct the research. The review article's dates were not restricted in any way. A total of 48 articles were chosen. The data was tabulated based on the kind of study and the outcomes. There are just a few papers available that demonstrate the necessity for more study.

RESULTS:

COVID-19 caused unforeseen changes in the health care industry, unequal distribution of health care, and consequences on mental health, according to the review studies. Teleconsultation, Internet use, and E-learning have all become more accessible. A period of transitory economic collapse and an increase in the number of migrants left many despondent. Improvement in family bonding, use of a face mask, and hygiene measures to adapt to the current scenario. There was also an impact on water sources, waste management systems, and environmental resource conservation.

CONCLUSION:

Difficult conditions can provide both problems and opportunities and advantages to the people during a pandemic outbreak.
Evaluating the role of residence affecting the mental health among elderly populations in Malaysia
Authors: Marzo Roy Rillera , Bhattacharya Sudip , Bin Mohamad Yunus Mohamad Zulfadhli , Bt Noraidiazhar Nurin Irdina , Bt Ssuna Salim Ain Mastura Nnakaliisa , A/P Subramanian Thevanai , Binti Samril Nurainun Mardhiah
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

According to the perception of majority of people, especially the elderly, it is believed that elderly people who are sent to old-age homes are more prone to have depression compared to those who are living with the community. This study was aimed to assess the significance of the place of residence in relation to the presence of depression among the elderly.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted between March and August 2020 to assess the depression among the elderly population residing in the Muar district, of Malaysia. A random table was generated of 250 house numbers in Muar where there is at least one geriatric person was living and a random sampling method was used for data collection. A questionnaire was distributed to a sample size of 250 old folks of Muar: those residing in old-age homes (n = 125) and those residing in their own houses (n = 125). A standard sociodemographic and geriatric depression scale interview was employed for data collection. All details were keyed into the SPSS version 22 software Standard Gradpack 23, and simple description and inferential statistics such as mean, median mode, percentages, and Chi-square tests were performed to compare the effects of different residences toward the mental health of the elderly.

RESULTS:

The total mean age of the elderly in both the places was 73.06 ± 9.116 years. Female respondents of this research accounted for 52.8%. In terms of religion, Islam had the highest number of respondents of 46.8%, followed by Buddhist (33.6%), Christian (10.8%), and Hindu (8.8%). The percentage of elderly having more than three children was 45.2%. The marital status and employment status of the elderly in Muar area are mostly widowed (40.8%) and retired (50%). They are predominately literate (81.6%) and most have a monthly income less than RM 2000 (90.8%). We found that the prevalence rate of depression was 70.4% in the elderly residing in old-age homes and 24.8% in the elderly living in the community. Females had a higher prevalence of depression than males (60.2% vs. 39.8%) among the elderly in old-age homes, whereas males had a higher prevalence in the community than females (51.6% vs. 48.4%). Logistic regression analysis revealed the place of residence (P < 0.01 and employment status (P = 0.011) as the predictors of depression.

CONCLUSION:

Results of this study revealed that the high prevalence rate of depression among the elderly is in old-age homes compared to elderly living in the community.
The level of satisfaction and quality of E-learning in medical universities of Iran during the epidemic of COVID-19
Authors: Iravani Mina , Nasab Maryam Beheshti , Bahmaei Hadis , Ghanbari Saeed , Mohaghegh Zaynab , Siahkal Shahla Faal
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

E-learning is web-based learning for education and training. The current global pandemic crisis created due to COVID-19 has made worldwide online learning. This study aimed to investigate the level of satisfaction and quality of E-learning in medical universities from the students' point of view during the epidemic of COVID-19 and assessing the obstacles and solutions proposed to improve the quality of E-learning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional, web-based study was conducted among 400 medical university students of Iran during the epidemic of COVID-19. After getting written consent, three parts questionnaire contains demographic, user satisfaction, quality questionnaire, and three open-ended questions were distributed randomly using social media. Descriptive analysis,t-test, Chi-square, and Pearson correlation coefficient were used to achieve the objective of this study, with significance set toP< 0.05. Furthermore, three open-ended questions were reviewed qualitatively and the problems and solutions suggested by the students were reported.

RESULTS:

Based on the findings of the descriptive section, 277 of the respondents were girls (69%) with a mean age of 21 ± 2 years. Sixty-nine percent of students were studying in medical sciences universities and 31% were studying in Islamic Azad University. The level of satisfaction was in the upper range of low (34.0 ± 10.0);P< 0.001, and intention to reuse was moderate (23.06 ± 6.0);P= 0.064. Student's perception of quality in most domains was in the upper range of low to medium. User satisfaction, intention to reuse, the quality of knowledge, and participatory quality for evaluating online courses were significantly higher in the Azad University group than in medical universities.

CONCLUSION:

Given that this is the first experience in the use of E-learning in Iran, both universities have not yet fully succeeded in satisfying students and it is necessary to increase the quality of E-learning based on student suggestions.
The relationship between sexual function and emotional intelligence and its components based on fertility status in women referring to health centers in Yazd
Authors: Bokaie Mahshid , Ahmadi Zohre , Reisi Marzie , Asadi Leila
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Sexual function is affected by many psychological factors and emotions. The impact of emotion management varies in different fertility situationsThis can affect women's sexual function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between sexual function and emotional intelligence and its components based on fertility status in women referring to health centers in Yazd.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study is a correlational study that was performed on 165 women with inclusion criteria and referred to 4 selected health centers in Yazd in 2017. The study tools include demographic questionnaire, Female Sexual Function Index sexual function, and Bar-On emotional intelligence. The fertility status of women in the present study included a history of infertility, number of children, and history of abortion. The analysis was performed using descriptive statistical methods and analytical tests with SPSS software version 18.

RESULTS:

The mean score of all components of emotional intelligence except the components of self-expression, independence, and emotional self-awareness and also the total score of emotional intelligence infertile people was significantly higher than infertile people (P < 0.05). Regarding the relationship between emotional intelligence and sexual function in terms of fertility variables, a significant correlation was observed between the mean scores of all components of emotional intelligence except interpersonal relationships, flexibility, responsibility, empathy, and self-expression with sexual performance score in fertile individuals.(P = 0.000).

Conclusion:

As a result, it is suggested that the institutions in charge of women's affairs try to increase emotional intelligence and improve women's sexual function by holding workshops and classes for women, especially in women with infertility, childlessness, and history of abortion.
Testing adaptation and psychometric properties of survey instrument for students' perspectives on e-professionalism and social media in Iranian students
Authors: Mosalanejad Leili , Abdollahifard Saeed
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The use of social networks in the field of education has also accelerated and has become a powerful source of learning for transformation and empowerment in various fields. This study aimed to test the adaptation and psychometric properties of an instrument for students' prospective on e-professionalism in the use of social media in Iranian medical science students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this questionnaire, with the aim of psychometric properties of the perception toward social media in Iranian students, this survey instrument developed by (Ness et al.) in five fields in 2nd-year pharmacology students in Purdue University The fields include accountability, hiring decisions, profile editing, professionalism, and privacy settings. In this study, first, a cultural adaptation was done by an expert panel. Then, psychometric properties of an instrument by content validity and construct validity using explanatory factor analysis were performed. Reliability was assessed by test–retest and internal consistency of items. The reliability of the survey instrument with three factors was 0.82 using the test–retest, and the internal consistency was good (r = 0.94).

RESULTS:

The result of psychometric properties using the principal component method extracted three factors (accountability, hiring decision, and professionalism) to assessment of students' attitude to professionalism using social media in Iranian students.

CONCLUSION:

The adapted and psychometric properties of the instrument developed by Ness et al., 2013, with three dimensions and ten items proved to be a valid, reliable instrument for use for assessing perspectives on e-professionalism and social media in Iranian medical students. This questioner may be suitable for Iranian researches in medical education.
Investigation of the effect of mindfulness on sexual desire and sexual satisfaction in primigravida pregnant women
Authors: Saniei Shamim , Fahami Fariba , Samouei Rahele , Tehrani Hatav Ghasemi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pregnancy causes a set of complex physiological and psychological changes that affect marital relationships. Mindfulness is a form of meditation that can promote person's performance and perception of sexual relationships. The present study aimed to determine the effect of mindfulness on sexual desire and sexual satisfaction in primigravida pregnant women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study is a quasi-experimental that has investigated on 72 primigravida pregnant women. The samples were selected randomly and assigned to experimental and control groups. The experimental group received six 90-min sessions of mindfulness intervention, and the control group received the educational pamphlet. The female sexual function index (FSFI) was filled by the subjects of the two groups in three stages of before the intervention, a week, and a month after the intervention. Data analysis was done by SPSS20 (Statistics 20 software; SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) at the significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS:

According to the statistical tests, there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of demographic characteristics and pregnancy information. The findings suggest no significant difference between the mean pretest and posttest score of sexual desire in the two groups (P > 0.05). However, the two groups were significantly different in terms of the mean score of sexual satisfaction before and after the intervention (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION:

By increasing the concentration on the present moment and avoiding judgment, mindfulness can increase sexual satisfaction. However, sexual desire can be affected by various factors such as the cultural context, the quality of marital relationships, and the pregnancy hormonal changes that can influence the sexual response.
Medical students and doctors’ perceptions toward COVID-19 health communication on social media
Authors: Citra Resiana , Syakurah Rizma Adlia
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Ineffective health communication could cause the increase of COVID-19 cases in Indonesia. Medical students can involve in efforts in health communication on social media to positively impact prevention behaviors during a pandemic. This study aims to identify and analyze medical students’ and internship doctors’ perceptions toward health communication related to COVID-19 through social media.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A mixed method with exploratory sequential used. A qualitative study was done using phenomenology approach through deep and semi-structured interviewing. After data analysis, the draft of the instrument prepared. Items in the draft selected based on the respondents’ answer. Then, a quantitative cross-sectional study was used. The data obtained from 399 medical students and doctors at a University in Indonesia using Google Form on October 14 to October 20, 2020 through media social. Data were analyzed using Pearson Correlation and Chi-square (alternative: Fisher's exact test) and logistic regression analysis with P < 0.05 and 95% confidence interval, respectively.

RESULTS:

Based on interview, respondents communicate health on social media because the condition of COVID-19 in Indonesia is dangerous, feel vulnerable to COVID-19, understand the benefits, obligations, or responsibilities as a candidate and/or medical personnel and believe they can create content/find valid sources. Meanwhile, the perception of limited knowledge is their biggest obstacle in conducting health communication. There were a relationship between gender (P = 0.028, PR = 0.657), perceived severity (P = 0.044, PR (Prevalence Ratio) =4.844 [0.725–32,354]), perceived susceptibility (P = 0.005, PR = 1.803 [1.182–2.750]), perceived barrier (P < 0.001, PR = 2.543 [1.908–3.388]), and self-efficacy (P = 0.012, PR = 1.810 [1.120–2.926]) with health communication behavior. The perceived barrier (P < 0.001, RR = 4.278 [2.709–6.754]) and perceived susceptibility (P = 0.004, PR = 2.304 [1.302–4.077]) were the most influenced behavior.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study showed that perceived severity, perceived susceptibility, perceived barrier, and self-efficacy are predictor factors of health communication behavior related to COVID-19 on social media with perceptions of susceptibility and perceived barriers as the most influential variables. It is necessary to provide communication learning on social media as effectively and applied directly to reduce perceived barriers and increase self-efficacy.
Lifestyle factors influencing medical and nursing student's health status at the rural health-care institute
Authors: Shekhar Ravi , Prasad Nidhi , Singh Tulika
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) may be influenced by lifestyle behavior, acquired during transition in student life at university. Health is a major concern globally. The developing counties are facing a double burden of disease, both communicable and NCD. This study is aimed to assess the lifestyle and its associated factors that can affect the health status of medical and nursing students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among medical and nursing students of Sasaram, Bihar, by universal sampling. The study population consisted of 303 medical and 233 nursing students. The 536 students in the study, included 195 from rural areas and 341 from urban areas. Simple Lifestyle Indicator Questionnaire was used and Chi-square statistics was computed to determine the association of demographic variables with lifestyle behavior using Epi InfoTM 7 analysis software.

RESULTS:

Mean age and body mass index were 21 ± 2.59 years and 22.12 ± 3.77, respectively. After statistical analysis utilizing the Chi-square test, it was shown that the difference was found to be nonsignificant (P > 0.05) in all the following variables, such as gender, age, marital status except in designation, and alcohol and tobacco intake which showed the difference to be highly significant.

CONCLUSIONS:

The maximum number of students in the study population showed intermediate healthy lifestyle (57.1%), despite being the upcoming health-care providers of future. Fruits were rarely present in diet in 82%, no physical activity in 21.2%, and tobacco and alcohol were consumed by 11.7% and 13%, respectively. Targeted intervention for healthy diet, physical activity, stress, tobacco, and alcohol reduction can lead to healthy lifestyle. Independence and autonomy gained in the transition phase in student life needs guided supervision to raise responsible adults. It may help to assist or to plan accordingly in future to improve lifestyle of the students.
Association between family behaviors and self-care activities among type-II diabetes mellitus patients at a teaching hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal
Authors: Kandel Shashi , Assanangkornchai Sawitri , Wichaidit Wit
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Self-care activities are associated with prognosis of type-II diabetes mellitus patients and include medication adherence, dietary adherence, physical activity, self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), and appropriate foot care. The behaviors of a patient's family members can influence the patient's self-care activities, but little data exist on this association. The objective of this study was to assess the extent of the association between behaviors of family members of Type-II diabetes patients and the patients' self-care activities.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted a cross-sectional study at a teaching hospital in Kathmandu, Nepal, and interviewed 411 outpatients with Type-2 diabetes mellitus. We used exploratory factor analysis to group family members' behaviors into 3 domains (”authoritarian,” “supportive,” and “planning” behaviors) and graded the level of the behavior into 3 categories (”high” vs. “medium” vs. “low”) according to its ranking distribution in each domain. We assessed the association between domains of family behavior and self-care activities using multivariate logistic regression with Bonferroni correction.

RESULTS:

High (vs. low) level of supportive behavior was associated with compliance to SMBG (58% vs. 11%; adjusted odds ratio [OR] =7.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] =2.41, 23.01). High (vs. low) level of planning behavior was associated with high level of foot care adherence (64% vs. 21%; adjusted OR = 6.03; 95% CI = 3.01, 12.11).

CONCLUSIONS:

We found associations between behaviors of diabetes patients' family members and the patients' own self-care behaviors. However, the incongruence between the family behavior measurement questions and the self-care of interest limited the implications of the findings.
Effect of progressive muscle relaxation technique on self-esteem and self-efficacy in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Akbari Ali , Shamsaei Farshid , Sadeghian Efat , Mazdeh Mehrdokht , Tapak Leili
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Low self-esteem and inefficiency are major problems in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. A progressive muscle relaxation technique is one of the complementary therapies. The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of progressive muscle relaxation techniques on self-esteem and self-efficacy in MS patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This clinical trial was conducted on 100 MS patients were randomly divided into two groups of experimental (n = 50) and control (n = 50). The experimental group received progressive muscle relaxation techniques in eight 60-min sessions twice a week for 4 weeks. Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale and Self-Efficacy Scales of MS patients were completed before, immediately, and 4 weeks after the intervention. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 16.

RESULTS:

The mean score of self-esteem was not significantly different between the control (26.02 ± 5.83) and experimental (26.40 ± 6.06) groups before intervention (P = 0.247). The mean score of self-esteem in the control group (27.16 ± 7.45) and the experimental group (29.06 ± 6.61) immediately after the intervention (P = 0.083) was not significantly different. 4 weeks after the intervention, the mean scores of self-esteem in the control (26.96 ± 8.33) and the experimental (29.98 ± 7.02) groups were significantly different (P = 0.012). The mean score of self-efficacy was significantly different between the control (41.62 ± 4.46) and experimental (39.32 ± 4.31) groups before intervention (P = 0.010). The mean scores of self-efficacy in the control group (38.38 ± 5.07) and the experimental group (44 ± 4.46) immediately after the intervention (P < 0.001) and 4 weeks after intervention showed a significant difference between the control group (38.04 ± 5.46) and the experimental (46.40 ± 5.04) groups (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Due to the effect of progressive muscle relaxation on self-esteem and self-efficacy of MS patients, its safety and simplicity, this technique can be used as a complementary therapy to enhance the level of self-esteem and self-efficacy of MS patients.
Evaluation of health belief model-based educational intervention on colorectal cancer screening behavior at South Khorasan, Iran
Authors: Khazaei Shahrbanoo , Salmani Fatemeh , Moodi Mitra
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Colorectal cancer is the most common cancer of the gastrointestinal tract. Health beliefs play an important role in the development of health behaviors. In this study, the effect of educational intervention based on Health Belief Model on colorectal cancer screening behavior was investigated.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was performed as a randomized controlled intervention. The study population was 50–70-years old in Khosf city. Initially, 120 eligible populations were randomly divided into intervention and control groups (60 people in each group). The data collection tool was a standard colorectal cancer screening questionnaire that was completed before, immediately, and 3 months after the intervention. The intervention consisted of eight 60-min training sessions. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS19 software and statistical tests.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the intervention and control groups was 63.53 ± 5.67 and 57.73 ± 5.77 years. In terms of mean scores of knowledge, perceived susceptibility, perceived severity, and perceived barriers were homogeneous before intervention. After the intervention, the mean score of the model constructs showed significant changes, which was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The rate of occult blood test in stool 3 months after training reached 90% in the intervention group and 15% in the control group.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study showed that by taking measures to reduce perceived barriers as well as increase knowledge, perceived susceptibility, severity, benefits and self-efficacy, the rate of participation in occult blood testing in feces can be significantly increased.
Development of sexual health promotion package in pregnancy
Authors: Alizadeh Shiva , Ozgoli Giti , Riazi Hedyeh , Majd Hamid Alavi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The World Health Organization recommendation requires the development and use of effective, brief, clear, and evidence-based education packages to improve health-care outcomes. No comprehensive sexual health improvement package exists for the pregnancy period in the Iranian health system. This study aimed to develop a package to promote sexual health in pregnancy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study is a qualitative study, which was conducted in 2019 in Tehran, Iran. Sexual health package during pregnancy was developed based on the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) steps. The first step included reviewing of international guidelines, strategies, handbooks, education packages, and articles in this regard. The package was developed in the second step. In the third step, quality assessment was performed using expert opinion with the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation Instrument II (AGREE II) tool, and validation was performed using Delphi method.

RESULTS:

Package content was designed in two sections: for midwives and health-care providers and for pregnant mothers in three sessions (in each trimester of pregnancy). The quality assessment using the AGREE II guidelines revealed excellent quality (>89%). The package was validated based on expert opinion (>95%).

CONCLUSION:

The sexual health promotion package during pregnancy was designed with high quality and validity based on NICE steps. It is recommended, midwives be performed this designed and validated package in routine pregnancy care to promote the couple's sexual health.
Forecasting Iran national health expenditures
Authors: Kazemian Mahmood , Abdi Zhaleh , Meskarpour-Amiri Mohammad
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Forecasting the future trend of health expenditures is an important step toward sustainable financing of health-care systems. This study aims to develop a conceptual framework for forecasting Iran health spending growth.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

At first, we concentrated on the general model and conceptual framework of health expenditure projection by reference to a broad literature review and smart classifications of the origins of health spending and indicators. At the second step, we developed a time series modeling for econometric estimation and forecasting national health expenditure without restrictive assumptions except for current laws and regulatory environment. In the third step, we tested the accuracy of model by forecasting Iran real per capita health expenditures (2017–2025).

RESULTS:

The results of the literature review represented a distinct classification of the origins of health spending and indicators, applicable to any health system and health spending projection model. Furthermore, the model of expenditure forecasting shows the power of certainty of no spurious estimation, assessment of the normal state of a health system, and test of the accuracy of forecasting results. The projection by the Iranian health system database showed that the real per capita health spending will grow 43 percent till 2025 in the absence of any unforeseen disturbance in the future.

CONCLUSIONS:

The presented model provides estimates that are compatible with actual trends of health spending and can be applied to forecast health expenditure in the near future. The forecasted image of Iran's health spending growth implies that health authorities need to concentrate more on the growth rate of the health budget and its fiscal space in the near future.
Contributing factors of willingness and hesitancy regarding acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine in primary care settings
Authors: Jha Sweety Suman , Paul Bobby , Das Rahul , Chattopadhyay Biswadip , Lahiri Arista
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

For any effective vaccination strategy, the willingness of the beneficiaries and its contributing factors are important. This study was conducted among the health-care workers (HCWs) and community members to find the perceptions regarding the COVID-19 vaccine and understand the influencers and the barriers of vaccine acceptance.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A qualitative study was conducted from October 2020 to December 2020 in two primary care settings in an urban area. Eighteen in-depth interviews (IDIs) after taking consent were conducted with the help of IDI guide developed and validated beforehand by the experts. IDIs were done among the ten community members and eight HCWs selected conveniently. Data collection were continued till data saturation when no new information yielded from the interviews. Thematic analysis was performed.

RESULTS:

All the participants were hopeful about availability of the vaccine. The key influencers identified for promoting willingness to accept the vaccine among both the groups were opinion of the health-care providers, colleagues’ and other people's acceptance of the vaccine, effectiveness of vaccine on other people, and perceived risk of the disease. Fear of adverse reactions was the most important barrier among all the respondents. The prevalent perception was that other preventive practices and vaccine together can only be the best solution to prevent COVID-19 illness. The HCWs perceived that acceptance of vaccine among the community members would be good overall but apprehended some initial difficulties. Mass campaign to promote COVID-19 vaccination and sensitization events are the need of the hour.

CONCLUSIONS:

Since opinion of health-care personnel emerged as an important influencer of vaccine acceptance, mass campaign and sensitization programs spearheaded by the health-care providers can bring about change by increasing the vaccine acceptance among the beneficiaries at large. Re-enforcement regarding practice of preventive measures should be made among the population irrespective of the vaccination status.
Attitudes and knowledge of pregnant women about oral health
Authors: Gavic Lidia , Maretic Ana , Putica Sanda , Tadin Antonija
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate attitudes and knowledge regarding oral health and infant oral health among pregnant women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study involved 325 pregnant women in the Republic of Croatia who completed an anonymous online questionnaire (Google forms) from January to June 2019. The questionnaire was divided into three parts. The first part contained questions about the demographic data experience about oral health in pregnancy. The second part was related to the knowledge of the relationship between oral health and pregnancy. The third section consisted of questions related to knowledge about the oral health of children at the earliest age. The results were analyzed with descriptive statistics, Spearman correlation analysis, and Chi-square test.

RESULTS:

The women are mostly informed about oral health in pregnancy from their dentists (53.54%) and least from their general doctors (4%). In pregnancy, gingival bleeding was observed by 52.31% of respondents and tooth mobility by 12.31%. The Chi-square test found that there was a difference in attitude regarding the age at which they should stop breastfeeding between respondents who had their first pregnancy and those who already had children. Only 9.23% of respondents are aware that breastfeeding can cause tooth decay.

CONCLUSION:

Pregnant women in the Republic of Croatia do not have sufficient knowledge, and they are neither aware of the importance of oral health during pregnancy nor infant oral health.
Acceptance of COVID-19 vaccine among healthcare workers before the launch of vaccine in India
Authors: Dkhar Sabira Aalia , Jeelani Asif , Quansar Ruqia , Salim Khan S. Muhammad
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

COVID-19 has led to significant morbidity and mortality globally in addition to unprecedented disruption in economic activities. Vaccination against it is considered to be the only sustainable way out of this pandemic. The study was conducted to estimate vaccine acceptance among doctors in India using an online survey.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study using a purposive sampling method was conducted two weeks before vaccine rollout. A pretested questionnaire developed using Google forms was shared by social media groups targeting doctors only.The questions collected information regarding socio-demographic details, knowledge, attitude and practices towards COVID-19 vaccination. Data was downloaded and analysed using SPSS-v23. Chi-square test and fisher exact test was used and P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS:

A total of 511 records were included in the final analysis of which 340 (66.53%) reported to be either definitely or probably willing to accept COVID-19 vaccine. One third of respondents were working in COVID-19 designated hospitals (37.2%), 30% were posted in non COVID-19 hospitals, 25.1% had no direct contact with COVID-19 patients while 7.7% doctors were involved in testing COVID-19 diagnosis. Subjects who perceived a higher risk of contracting COVID-19, those who perceived that vaccine would be effective against COVID-19 and those who felt that vaccine will not have any serious side effects were more likely to accept the vaccine.

CONCLUSION:

There is an urgent need to address any apprehensions regarding COVID-19 vaccines. A tailored and intensified advocacy program for doctors is needed before the launch of vaccine.
Developing an artificial neural network for detecting COVID-19 disease
Authors: Shanbehzadeh Mostafa , Nopour Raoof , Kazemi-Arpanahi Hadi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

From December 2019, atypical pneumonia termed COVID-19 has been increasing exponentially across the world. It poses a great threat and challenge to world health and the economy. Medical specialists face uncertainty in making decisions based on their judgment for COVID-19. Thus, this study aimed to establish an intelligent model based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) for diagnosing COVID-19.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Using a single-center registry, we studied the records of 250 confirmed COVID-19 and 150 negative cases from February 9, 2020, to October 20, 2020. The correlation coefficient technique was used to determine the most significant variables of the ANN model. The variables at P < 0.05 were used for model construction. We applied the back-propagation technique for training a neural network on the dataset. After comparing different neural network configurations, the best configuration of ANN was acquired, then its strength has been evaluated.

RESULTS:

After the feature selection process, a total of 18 variables were determined as the most relevant predictors for developing the ANN models. The results indicated that two nested loops' architecture of 9-10-15-2 (10 and 15 neurons used in layer 1 and layer 2, respectively) with the area under the curve of 0.982, the sensitivity of 96.4%, specificity of 90.6%, and accuracy of 94% was introduced as the best configuration model for COVID-19 diagnosis.

CONCLUSION:

The proposed ANN-based clinical decision support system could be considered as a suitable computational technique for the frontline practitioner in early detection, effective intervention, and possibly a reduction of mortality in patients with COVID-19.
Investigating the effectiveness of innovative intervention based on compassion, awareness, resilience, and empowerment on burnout in nurses of two educational hospitals in Isfahan
Authors: Safaeian Alireza , Tavakolifard Negah , Roohi Azita
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Burnout is a syndrome of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and low professional efficacy that health workers, especially nurses, experience the highest rates of this. Burnout causes stress and negative attitude towards work and feeling unable to perform tasks in the person. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of a method called compassion, awareness, resilience, and empowerment (CARE) on nurses’ burnout.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was a semi-experimental study with control group, the statistical population in this study was nurses of Kashani Hospital in Isfahan as intervention group and nurses of Al-Zahra Hospital as control group. The samples were selected by stratified sampling. For both groups before and after and 3 months after the intervention, the burnout questionnaire (Maslach Burnout Inventory) was completed. The intervention was performed in 5 sessions of 90 min 1 day a week. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25 software (IBM Inc., USA) and independent t-test, repeated measures analysis of variance and Chi-square test and Friedman test, significance level was set at P < 0.05.

RESULTS:

The comparison of mean and intensity of burnout and two dimensions of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization showed a difference between the two groups and this difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). Mean of Individual performance also had a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P < 0.05), but its intensity did not change.

CONCLUSION:

CARE method can be effective in burnout of nurses and it can be used as a practical method. This training program can be implemented both preservice and in-service for health workers.
The association between sexual health literacy and sexual function of women in Iran
Authors: Dehghankar Leila , Panahi Rahman , Khatooni Marzieh , Fallah Somayeh , Moafi Farnoosh , Anbari Mohammad , Siboni Fatemeh Samiei
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Considering the importance of sexual health literacy in promoting individual sexual health and ultimately improving family and social health as well as the effect of health literacy on sexual function, this study was designed and conducted to determine the association between sexual health literacy and sexual function among women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study. A total of 420 women referring to health centers were entered into the study using one-stage cluster sampling method. Data collection tools included a demographic questionnaire, Iranian Adult Sexual Health Literacy Assessment Questionnaire, and the Persian version of the Female Sexual Function Assessment Questionnaire (FSFI). Data were collected and entered into SPSS 22 and logistic regression.

RESULTS:

The results of the logistic regression test showed that the variable of sexual health literacy was effective on women's sexual function (P = 0.021) so that the chances of having a desirable sexual function in women with excellent were 4.222 times more than women with inadequate health literacy; the variables of employment status, level of education, duration of marital life, and the number of sexual intercourses per recent week were the factors affecting women's sexual function (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study pointed out the existence of an undesirable level of sexual function and a desirable level of sexual health literacy among participating women. Hence, designing and implementing the training plans to promote sexual function among these women is necessary.
Effect of operational exercises on nurses’ competence in dealing with disaster
Authors: Aliakbari Fatemeh , Pirani Tahereh , Heidari Mohammad , Kheiri Soleiman
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

It is necessary to assess the level of preparedness to reduce the side effects of disasters, so regarding to the role of nurses in responding to the disasters, this is of particular importance. Holding a maneuver and exercises is one of the ways to increase the level of capability and assess the level of readiness, so the aim of the current study was to investigate the impact of the implementation of the operational exercises program on the competency of nurses in disaster response in 2020.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study is a quasi-experimental study in two groups, in which seventy nurses of hospitals affiliated to Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences were selected by census and randomly divided into two groups. Before the intervention, a native questionnaire to assess the competence of nurses in the disaster response was completed. Then, the empowerment program including educational workshop, tabletop, and operational maneuvers were performed. Immediately and 3 months after the intervention, the questionnaires for both groups were completed, and the data were analyzed using SPSS 21 through descriptive-analytical statistical tests.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the mean score of nurses’ competence in all domains of management, ethics, personal, team work, and technical immediately and 3 months after the intervention in the intervention group increased significantly (P = 0.001), while in the control group, these changes were not significant (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

According to the results of a recent study, the implementation of the empowerment program and the implementation of maneuvers as a part of the process of preparing nurses to deal with disasters have been effective. Therefore, it is suggested to use periodic maneuvers in in-service training programs to improve the level of competence of nurses.
Stress level of dentists during COVID-19 pandemic in hot spots of Tamil Nadu
Authors: Sushanthi S. , Indumathy M. , Balasubramaniam Arthi , Santhosh Kumar M. P.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The novel 2019 COVID-19 spreads by respiratory and aerosols, and this elevates the risk of dentistry during this pandemic. Widespread disease, in a short time, creates stress and has a psychological impact. The aim of this study was planned to assess the stress level of the dentists living or practicing or studying in hot spots which could help to understand mental status among the general dentists during COVID-19 lockdown.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted during the period of August 10 to August 25, 2020, on an Internet platform after getting consent from the dentists and practitioners using the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS). Chi-square association was used. Parametric tests such as independent t-tests and one-way ANOVA were also used. In all instances, P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

This study had a total response from 1044 dental students and dentists residing in hot spot zones in Tamil Nadu. Out of them, 68.4% were female and 31.6% were male. 37.9% of the participants were dental practitioners and 32.5% were undergraduate students. There is a significant association between age groups and PSS, work style, and PSS. There is no significant association between gender and PSS and degree and PSS.

CONCLUSION:

This study shows that levels of distress were higher than expected during the COVID-19 pandemic among the dentists and majority of the respondents have moderate-to-high-stress levels. As the unlock has been started throughout the country, it is the right time to work with the authorities and focus on formulating protocols for disinfection and sterilization and work on treating the patients with exact safety measures for the welfare of the patients.
The effect of “Elder Care by Elderly People Program” on life satisfaction and quality of life among institutionalized senior citizens
Authors: Salmannezhad Mohsen , Momtaz Yadollah Abolfathi , Sahhaf Robab , Rassafiani Mehdi , Foladi Shiva Hosseini
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION:

Improving participation in life meaningful roles is one of the most important predictors of quality of life (QOL) and life satisfaction (LS) in later life. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of Elder Care by Elderly People (ECP) on LS and QOL among institutionalized senior citizens.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

This was an interventional study involving a targeted sample of 36 older adults in Ghods nursing home in Tehran in 2018. WHOQOL-OLD 24-item and LS 40-item questionnaires were used to measure LS and Olathe repeated-measures ANOVA and descriptive was employed to obtain the objectives.

RESULTS:

The participants were 36 older adults in Ghods nursing home. The mean age of older adults was 67.27 (standard deviation [SD] = 7.6), of whom about 77.8% were male. The mean score of QOL increased from 74.38 (SD = 13.09) pre intervention to 83.72 (SD = 11.43) 2 months post intervention, with most significant change of 9.3 QOL points between pre intervention and 2 months post intervention alone (P < 0.01). Similarly, LS increased from 114.19 (SD = 26.93) pre intervention to 133.94 (SD = 20.49) 2 months post intervention, with most significant change of 19.7 LS points between pre intervention and 2 months post intervention alone (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study showing the evidence of the positive impact of the ECP Programmed for the elderly, therefore, it is suggested that the programmer is evaluated in future studies.
Bio-psycho-social health assessment in prehospital emergency technicians
Authors: Delshad Vahid , Stueck Marcus , Ebadi Abbas , Bidzan Mariola , Khankeh Hamidreza
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Health is a complex structure and has physical, psychological, and social approaches. The importance and impact of health assessment have caused considerable attention to be paid to the employees of the health system and the determining factors of this relationship. Hence, the main purpose of this study was to find out the bio-psycho-social health situation in prehospital emergency technicians as the research question staff.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present study is a systematic review and data have retrieved through extensive search in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed (including Medline), Cochrane Library, Irandoc, Magiran, MedLib, and SID databases with a combination of keywords of “Health, “ “Assessment, “ “Social,” “Psychological,” “Biological,” “Emergency,” and “prehospital,” according to the search strategy, between 2000 and 202111 studies were reviewed; then, they were entered based on the objectives of the study and narrative analysis was performed by the researcher.

RESULTS:

After analyzing the articles, a total of 4 factors affecting bio-psycho-social health in prehospital emergency technicians have been extracted and identified, which included health management, bio-psycho-social factors, occupational factors, and behavioral factors.

CONCLUSION:

This research showed four factors, namely health management, bio-psycho-social factors, occupational factors, and behavioral factors which could be effective in Bio-Psycho-Social health. Since prehospital emergency services have an important role in maintaining the health of the community, which requires attention to the bio-psycho-social health of emergency personnel, more studies have focused on health management among the four mentioned factors, but the need to examine the other three factors for a more accurate assessment of the health of emergency personnel seems necessary. Therefore, prevention and response strategies based on bio-psycho-social health assessment models are proposed to promote the health of prehospital emergency technician staff.