bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the Fire-Retardant Properties of Cotton-Containing Textile Materials Through the Use of Organo-Inorganic SiO2 Sols
Authors: Skorodumova Olga , Tarakhno Olena , Chebotaryova Olena
Published: July 2022

The effect of fire-retardant compositions based on organo-inorganic SiO2 sols without the use of flame retardants on increasing the fire resistance of cotton-containing textile materials has been studied. Previous studies have shown that the combined use of silicate coatings and flame retardants of simple structure prevents the ignition of impregnated samples of cotton-containing fabric and the proposed chemistry of this process. These studies did not use flame retardants to obtain more information on the effect of the composition and concentration of experimental organo-inorganic SiO2 sols on the fire resistance of treated tissues. The compositions were prepared by the sol-gel method using a technical product – liquid glass – with a silicate modulus of 2,5 and acetic acid solution. The influence of sols concentration in terms of conditioned SiO2 on their rheological features has been studied. It was found that the optical density, fluidity and survivability of experimental sols depend on the concentration of SiO2 in the sol. The compositions were applied to the fabric by the bath method in layers: each layer of the coating was fixed on the surface of the fabric by thermal shock in an oven at temperatures of 80-100 °C. Untreated cotton fabric caught fire under the influence of fire after 7 seconds. Impregnated tissue samples did not ignite under the action of fire, but gradually charred. To determine the effect of coating thickness and SiO2 concentration in the sol on the fire resistance of impregnated fabric samples, fire tests at a gas pressure of 0,2 MPa were performed for 8 s and the area of damage to the reverse side of the fabric was determined. Prolonged exposure to the flame resulted in a crack in the center of the charred spot. In the absence of flame retardants in the fire-retardant composition after removal of the fire source, decay was observed. The time for which a crack is formed in the sample under the action of fire was determined at the time of onset of tissue destruction. It is shown that in the case of using a sol of 10% concentration it is necessary to apply three layers of coating, which doubles the fire resistance (from 7 s for untreated fabric to 15 s for impregnated fabric), the start time of destruction increases 5 times (from 1 min to 5,5 min). The area of damage to the reverse side of the fabric not treated and impregnated with the experimental coating is reduced from 632 mm2 to 0, respectively.
Determination of the Young ́s Modulus like Mechanical Property of Concrete Materials from the Holcim Mine Located in Pifo of Pichincha Province
Authors: Tipán Wilson Oswaldo Cando , Vélez Bolívar Mauricio Cely , Páez Estuardo , Londoño Doménica , Terán Wilson
Published: July 2022

Due to the seismicity of the country and especially to the geology of the province of Pichincha, it was considered important to obtain this equation in order to improve the structural design of future constructions since we do not have our own parameters to determine the mechanical properties of concrete. Based on previous investigations of the modulus of elasticity carried out in the country, it was identified that the current formula does not reflect the reality of the existing conditions since the derivation of this equation was determined in the USA whose characteristics of the materials are totally different from those of Ecuador. Therefore, it was considered convenient to carry out a complete study of the properties of the aggregates to obtain the equation of the modulus of elasticity of concrete that represents the attributes of the province of Pichincha.
Hydrocracking of LDPE Plastic Wastes into Liquid Fuel by Natural Zeolite Supported Nickel Metal
Authors: Taufiqurrohaman Moh , Wijaya Karna , Nadia Asma , Purba Susi Efrina , Syoufian Akhmad
Published: July 2022

Hydrocracking of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) plastic over an impregnated Ni catalyst on activated natural zeolite (Ni/ANZ) has been carefully investigated. Natural zeolite was firstly activated with HCl 6 M under reflux conditions followed by wet-impregnation with Ni salts. The obtained powder was calcined at 500 °C followed by a reduction with H2 at 500 °C. The resulting Ni/ANZ catalyst was characterized by using FTIR, SAA, and XRD. The hydrocracking of LDPE plastic was carried out in a semi-bath stainless steel reactor. The resulting liquid product was analyzed by GC-MS. This study found that the hydrocracking process was carried out effectively at 200 °C. The selectivity towards gasoline (C5-C12) at 200 °C could be boosted by employing the Ni/ANZ catalyst (68.23% yield) which is much higher than the uncatalyzed pyrolysis (37.87% ).
Greener Procedure of Dithizone Immobilization on Coal Bottom Ash for Heavy Metal Adsorbent: Synthesis Optimization and Characterization
Authors: Huda Bonusa Nabila , Wahyuni Endang Tri , Mudasir Mudasir
Published: July 2022

In the present study, new greener approach of dithizone immobilization on coal bottom ash as a source of silica-alumina materials in alkaline (NaOH) solution has been developed to replace previously used method utilizing more toxic solvents such as toluene, carbon tetrachloride or chloroform. Some parameters influencing the effectiveness of dithizone immobilization including reaction time, concentration of NaOH solution as well as washing procedures were optimized. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infra-Red), XRD (X-Ray Diffraction) and DSC/TGA (Differential Scanning Calorimetry/Thermogravimetric Analysis) analysis were employed to characterize the obtained materials. The adsorbents also tested for the adsorption of Pb(II) ion. Results suggest the use of greener alkaline medium has doubled the effectiveness of dithizone immobilization on the surface of coal bottom ash and hence enhances the capacity and selectivity of adsorbent towards heavy metals.
Application of Coating for Fire Protection of Textile Structures
Authors: Tsapko Yuriy , Bondarenko Olga , Tsapko Oleksii , Sarapin Yuriy
Published: July 2022

The results of experimental research on the effectiveness of fire protection of easily erected structures made of flammable textile products are presented. Analysis of the use of structures made of flammable textile products, which are easy to build, shows a steady trend to increase their use during the temporary implementation of certain tasks of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and SES units. During the heating of such buildings, fires and rapid spread of fire are possible. Statistics on the operation of easily erected structures have shown a low level of safety due to the use of natural fibers (such as flax, cotton and mixtures), which are highly sensitive to high temperatures and fire. After the test, it is seen that the raw sample of textile material supports self-combustion for more than 5 s, the damage to the sample is more than 200 mm. After testing the flame retardant sample, it is seen that the sample of textile material does not support self-combustion; damage to the sample not more than 40 mm. Inhibition of the process of ignition and spread of flame for such a sample is associated with the decomposition of flame retardants under the action of temperature with heat absorption and release of non-combustible gases (nitrogen, carbon dioxide), changing the direction of decomposition towards non-combustible gases and flame retardant coke. This leads to an increase in the thickness of the coke layer and inhibition of heat transfer of high temperature flame to the material, which indicates the possibility of transition of textile materials when treated with a flame retardant composition to materials related to non-combustible surfaces that do not spread flame.
Enhancement Efficiency of Solar Cells Based on Quantum Dots: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Sabri Sara , Malek Rachid , Kassmi Khalil
Published: July 2022

Improving the conversion efficiency of solar cells is a key way to make solar cells cost-competitive with conventional sources of energy because the cost of electricity produced from solar cells depends on their efficiency. According to Shockley-Queisser limit, all single junctions cells have a theoretical efficiency limit of 33.7%. Efficiency losses are associated with light that either is not energetic enough or too energetic for the generation of an electron-hole pair. In other words, the two most important loss mechanisms in single bandgap solar cells are the inability to convert photons with energies below the bandgap energy (Eg) into electricity and the thermalization of photon energies exceeding Eg. These two mechanisms alone represent the loss of about half of the incident solar energy during the conversion. Intermediate band (IB) located inside the forbidden band of the host semiconductor, making it possible to increase the absorption of photons with energy lower than the band gap energy Eg, can be a solution for the first problem. The effect of IB on the efficiency of solar cells was discussed. Our aim is to show how IB can improve the efficiency of solar cells based on Quantum Dots (QDs), i.e, the efficiency of a solar cell can be greatly increased through additional optical absorption. In this paper, two cases were discussed applying a numerical model. Our model, used to calculate solar cells efficiency and to plot the current-voltage (I-V) characteristics and the power-voltage (P-V) characteristics curves, is mainly based on the principles of the detailed balance between absorption and emission of solar light and well separated quasi-Fermi levels. The first case is an idealized case where the recombinations are assumed to be entirely radiative. In the second case, the model takes into account the non-radiative recombinations introduced by the increase in the density of defects caused by the increase in the size of the QDs. It has been shown that Consideration of size leading to the reduction of the defects is one of important key solution to increase the efficiency of intermediate band solar cells (IBSC).
A study of the contribution of temporary assemblage towards sense of place: in Aluth-Nuwara sacred area, Sri Lanka
Authors: Wijesekara I. U. , Munasinghe J. N.
Published: July 2022

‘Sense of place’ is a phenomenal which is still vaguely defined and appeared to be with the association of the inhabitants. The behavior pattern, the values people attribute in a built environment often said to have bought sense of place in urban environments. The composition of both permanent structures and temporary assemblages set forth to gets the form and character of every built environment. This has become more apparent in sacred built environments where non-lasting structures assembled for temporal benefits to play an important role in making them functional places in the formally arranged spaces. Nevertheless, the character, utility and sense of place build on to day-to-day lived in environments by these informally planned impermanent structures associated with many uncertainties, hence the existence of them considered as ‘problematic’ in formal planning and design arrangements. In the context where the limited studies in this regard, the study examines these temporary interventions and their impact in experiencing of places, for the purpose of expanding the awareness and thorough understanding of planners, urban designers and the authorities, who are responsible for the making of sustainable built environments. First, a review of relevant literature presents in this paper to identify a suitable theoretical framework to study the impacts of temporary assemblage on sense of place. Second, it employs the conceptual framework profound of ‘Bennett’s six triads’ to present the mutual transactive relationship between the behavior patterns of the inhabitants and activity spaces in “Aluthnuwara Devalaya” sacred area as observed by the authors. This shows how the temporary assemblages impact on the values and the behaviors of the inhabitants and thereby form the sense of place, within a formal built environment. The study highlights that temporary assemblage adds sense to places not only by their presence but also by changing people’s behaviors.
Cultivated Cordyceps : A Tale of Two Treasured Mushrooms
Authors: Anyu Anawinla Ta , Zhang Wen-Hui , Xu Qi-He
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Ophiocordyceps sinensis and Cordyceps militaris both contain many bioactive compounds that confer potential therapeutic benefits. This review discusses the possible use of cultivated C. militaris as an effective substitute for native O. sinensis in the face of ever-increasing prices of O. sinensis because of its short supply. On the one hand, cultivated C. militaris contains higher levels of cordycepin when compared with that of wild-type O. sinensis and cultivation of C. militaris has been shown to be capable of reducing the risk of heavy metal contamination. On the other hand, there is a paucity of robust in vivo studies and randomized controlled tests comparing the pharmacology and use of C. militaris and O. sinensis. For extraction of cordycepin as western-style tablets, the use of cultivated C. militaris rather than O. sinensis represents the most appropriate future approach. For many other purposes, comparative pharmacology and clinical trials are in urgent needs.
Financial literacy and its correlates among healthcare professionals of India
Authors: Agarwal Neeraj , Biswas Bijit
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Financial literacy is a person's capability to manage their own monetary matters. There was no information available on financial literacy status of healthcare professionals (HCPs) of India. So, the current research was formulated to assess the financial literacy status and its correlates among HCPs of India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

It was an observational study, cross-sectionally designed, conducted among 524 HCPs of India using a structured Google form during July 2020. For data analysis, SPSS (version 22) was used.

RESULTS:

Among the study participants, 68.3% were found to be financially literate. Among the various subdomains of the total financial literacy, knowledge regarding general domain was observed to be the best (69.3%) followed by savings (63.7%) and investment (58.0%) domains, respectively. The total financial literacy score was found to be positively correlated with higher age [spearman rho correlation co-efficient (ρ) = 0.25; P =< 0.01], qualification [(medical postgraduate) (ρ= 0.16; P =< 0.01); (medical super speciality) (ρ = 0.14; P =< 0.01)], and annual family income (ρ= 0.29; P =< 0.01). Moreover, males (ρ= 0.23; P =< 0.01)], currently married (ρ= 0.19; P =< 0.01), and surgeons (ρ= 0.12; P =< 0.01) were found to be more financially literate compared with others. Positive financial attitude (ρ= 0.26; P =< 0.01) and regular maintenance of financial record (ρ= 0.21; P =< 0.01) were the other enabling factors of financial literacy observed in the study.

CONCLUSIONS:

Financial literacy was found to be quite low in the surveyed HCPs as every third study participant were found to be deficient in knowledge regarding one or more financial attributes. Incorporation of finance management in curriculum of the healthcare allied courses and repeated sensitization of the graduated HCPs are warranted to enable them to take effective financial decisions to meet their personal and organizational financial goals.
The effect of education based on the theory of planned behavior on the intention of vaccination against human papillomavirus in female students
Authors: Zomordi Golchehreh , Moradi Maryam , Hasanzadeh Malihe , Ghavami Vahid
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection and causes more than 90% of cervical cancers. The highest rate of infection occurs between the ages of 18 and 28. This study aimed to determine the effect of education based on the theory of planned behavior (TPB) on the intention of vaccination against HPV in female students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This controlled educational trial study was performed on 72 female students aged 18–26 years of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences by random assignment to intervention and control groups. For random assignment in the intervention and control groups, random blocking with four blocks was performed using a random number table with a ratio of 1:1. Data collection tools included demographic questionnaire, awareness about HPV vaccination, and TPB theory constructs. The control group was received the university routine training. The intervention group was received the virtual group training in four sessions, 60–90 min at weekly intervals and with educational content including TPB constructs on HPV vaccination with the method of lecture training, group discussion, questions and answers, and presentation of training package. Questionnaires were completed before, instantly, and 1 month after the educational intervention. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test, Fisher's exact, t-test, Mann–Whitney test, and Friedman test.

RESULTS:

The mean age of students was 18.9 ± 1.1 years. The intervention and control groups were homogeneous in terms of demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). Before the intervention, the mean score of model constructs did not show a statistically significant difference between the two groups (P > 0.05), but after the intervention, in the intervention group, mean scores of attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, and behavioral intention in the intervention group was significantly higher than the control group (P < 0.001). In the intervention group, the difference in the mean score of HPV vaccination intention instantly (P < 0.001) and 1 month (P < 0.001) after the intervention significantly increased.

CONCLUSION:

TPB-based education was effective in increasing attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control and the intention to vaccinate against HPV in the female students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences. Therefore, it is suggested that the present educational intervention be widely used to educate female students.
Assessment of the psychological impact of COVID-19 pandemic on undergraduate medical students in India
Authors: Shreevastava Amit Kumar , Mavai Manisha , Mittal Pragati Sheel , Verma Ranjana , Kaur Daljit , Bhandari Bharti
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Medical students who are prone to psychological stress due to their overburdened curriculum, are at an increased risk of getting adversely affected by the pandemic. The present study was planned to assess the anxiety level among undergraduate medical students across the country using generalized anxiety disorder scale (GAD-7).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this online survey, anonymous data was collected through Google forms from undergraduate students from all the phases of MBBS course across the country from August 15, 2020, to October 15, 2020. Section I collected various demographic information, section II included GAD-7 questionnaire for assessing anxiety and section III had open- ended questions about their impending fear, uncertainties, and apprehensions. The data was expressed in percentage and association among the variables was determined using Chi-square test. Thematic analysis of the open-ended responses was done.

RESULTS:

Among the sample of 1208 students, 81% were from urban areas. During the pandemic, 77% were residing with their parents and 71% parents having stable jobs. Eighty percent students had no relative diagnosed with COVID-19, whereas 52% students had family members with comorbidity. The GAP score showed mild, moderate, and severe anxiety in 27, 24, and 16% students, respectively. Anxiety was significantly associated with rural setting and with COVID-19 positive or comorbid family member (P < 0.05). Open ended responses revealed that majority of the students were finding it difficult to cope with the academic stress at home but still did not want to join back.

CONCLUSION:

With such a high incidence of anxiety among medical students, it is pertinent to safeguard the mental health and implement efficient approaches to upkeep the scholastic, physical, emotional, and professional well-being of medical students during such vulnerable times.
The effectiveness of virtual interactive video in comparison with online classroom in the stroke topic of theoretical neurology in COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Vakilian Alireza , Ranjbar Ehsan Zare , Hassanipour Mahsa , Ahmadinia Hassan , Hasani Hamid
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Sufficient interaction between the trainers and the trainees in medical education is always one of the biggest challenges for an educational system. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of virtual interactions within the educational content of stroke on the effectiveness of teaching for general medicine students during COVID-19 crisis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

Eight medical students applying for stroke education were divided into two groups by simple random sampling (Rafsanjan Medical School, 2020). The first group participated in an online classroom via the Adobe Connect platform without virtual interaction. The second group used a video presentation containing interaction scenarios. The effectiveness evaluation of each type of educational content was done by comparison of the final exam scores and the results of an electronic satisfaction questionnaire in each group. Finally, using SPSS software version 18, the data were analyzed with independent samples t-test.

RESULTS:

This study showed that the mean of the examination scores of the interactive virtual content group (6.14 ± 1.46) was significantly higher than the online class group (4.50 ± 1.50) (P < 0.001), and also the results of satisfaction assessment showed that this group was more satisfied with their educational content (P = 0.005).

CONCLUSION:

Evaluation of the virtual stroke training effectiveness for general medical students shows that the educational approach of video with virtual interactions is an effective learning method in medical topics and can be considered as an efficacious educational model in online teaching.
Health-related quality of life among adult patients with visual impairments in Yazd, Iran
Authors: Raadabadi Mehdi , Emamgholipour Sara , Daroudi Rajabali , Madadizadeh Farzan , Veisi Amirreza
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Visual impairment (VI) is one of the major public health problems that cause suffering, disability, loss of productivity, and reduced quality of life (QoL). This study aimed to evaluate the health-related QoL (HRQoL) among adults with visual problems in 2021.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted on 300 patients with VIs referring to ophthalmology centers in Yazd, Iran. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using EQ-5D, visual analog scale (VAS), and demographic information questionnaires. The results were analyzed using independent sample t-test, one-way analysis of variance, Pearson correlation coefficient, and adjusted limited dependent variable mixture model (ALDVMM) model by STATA, and SPSS.

RESULTS:

The mean and standard deviation of EQ-5D-5 L index and EQ-VAS score in the studied patients were 0.68 ± 0.25 and 72.46 ± 19.36, respectively. Most problems at unable/extreme level were related to the mobility dimension (12%) and the usual activities dimension (9%). Factors related to HRQoL scores using ALDVMM model showed that divorced or widow marital status, age over 50, having strabismus, and acuter visual problems had significant negative effects on EQ-5D-5 L index values (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

The results showed that HRQoL was moderate in patients with VIs and reduced in patients with high disease severity, old age, lack of a spouse, retirement, and nonuniversity education. As a result, socioeconomic and demographic characteristics were required to be considered in visual health policies.
Perception of undergraduate medical students toward stressors and de-stressors during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Parida Swayam Pragyan , Giri Prajna Paramita , Sahu Dinesh Prasad , Sahoo Bimal Kumar , Subba Sonu H.
Published: July 2022

Introduction:

COVID-19 has affected the quality of life of all age groups. Medical education during the pandemic shifted to online mode due to lockdown restrictions. The stress felt by medical students during the pandemic has been studied less. The current study aimed to assessed the stressors and de-stressors for undergraduate medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and methods:

A cross-sectional online survey was conducted for the undergraduate medical students of a tertiary care institute of eastern India. A total of 307 medical students were included in the study by convenient and snowball sampling. A self-designed semi-structural questionnaire was created as a Google form and circulated among the students between September and October 2020. A combination of purposive and snowball sampling was adopted. Responses regarding stressors and de-stressors were recorded on a Likert scale. Data analysis was performed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22. Categorical variables were presented as percentages and descriptive statistics were performed.

Results:

A total of 307 students responded and 64.5% of them were men and 35.5% were women. 47.6% of the students experienced stress due to changes brought about by COVID-19. Risk of parents getting infection (63.2%), fear of not easily returning home (53.1%), lack of clinical exposure (52.7%), and financial impact (47.9%) were the major stressors perceived by the students. Connecting with family and friends through social media (47.5%), gaming (45.0%), online streaming platform (51.2%), spending time with family members (54.4%) were the coping strategies adopted by these students.

Conclusion:

Higher level of psychological stress perceived by the undergraduate students needs psychological intervention. Academic revamp and adaptation of coping strategies are required for the medical under-graduates.
The impact of a didactic and experiential learning model on health profession students’ knowledge, perceptions, and confidence in the use of telehealth
Authors: Boos Karene , Murphy Kerri , George Thomas St. , Brandes James , Hopp Jane
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Training of health profession students in telehealth is important to ensure proper implementation for healthcare delivery. This prospective study aimed to analyze the effects of didactic and experiential learning on knowledge, confidence, and attitudes of telehealth among health profession students (Survey 1). The perceptions of a mixed model telehealth platform were also considered among these students and community clients (Survey 2).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A quasi-experimental repeated-measure study was conducted on 153 university health profession students in physician assistant, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and nursing (NR) across the 2020–2021 academic year. Survey 1 was administered to students pre/postdidactic telehealth training and at two sequential points within two semesters of telehealth experiential learning. Survey 2 was distributed among students and a pool of 19 community clients at 4 time points across the experience. Survey data were analyzed using R software.

RESULTS:

There was a significant improvement in telehealth knowledge, confidence, and attitudes among all student disciplines after the didactic module with marginal means ranging 3.313/5–4.318/5 for pretest to posttest 1. Improvement continued through experiential learning with marginal means ranging 4.170/5–4.369/5 in posttest 3. There was also a significant student and client approval of the telehealth platform with a student mean high of 3.962/5 ± 0.527 and client mean high of 4.727/5 ± 0.238.

CONCLUSION:

A didactic training module combined with experiential learning is effective for health profession students' improvement in perception, knowledge, and attitudes toward telehealth. Health profession students and community clients approve a mixed model telehealth platform.
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among Nigerian youths
Authors: Olawade David B. , Wada Ojima Z. , Odetayo Aderonke , Akeju Oluwabusayomi O. , Asaolu Fiyinfoluwa T. , Owojori Grace O.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

Vaccination has been appraised to be one of the most significant public health achievements in human history. However, in countries like Nigeria, vaccine hesitancy is a public health challenge that has consistently forestalled concerted efforts made by health authorities to curb the spread of communicable diseases such as COVID-19. To improve COVID-19 vaccine acceptance via targeted interventions, it is imperative to examine the public's perception. Thus, this study aims to evaluate vaccine hesitancy among university students in Southwestern Nigeria.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design. A self-administered questionnaire was administered to a total of 366 respondents who were recruited using the convenience sampling technique and snowball approach. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS.

RESULTS:

The majority of the respondents were over 18 years (88%) and were between their first and third years (81%). Over a tenth of the respondents reported having at least a loved one that had tested positive for the virus, while only 88% believed the virus is real. Furthermore, only 17% of the students had a positive attitude toward the vaccine. Although 90% of the respondents were aware of the administration of COVID-19 vaccine in Nigeria, only around a quarter were willing to take the vaccine, while 5.5% had been vaccinated. The major reasons for COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy highlighted by the respondents were concerns about vaccine side effects (21.3%), lack of trust in the authorities (26.5%), vaccine efficacy (13.1%), and diverse mystical possibilities (39.1%).

CONCLUSION:

The results indicate that a significant communication gap exists between the respondents and local health authorities. To enhance the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines, extensive and targeted health promotion campaigns are required to allay specific concerns raised by the public.
Learning and quality of life in undergraduate nursing students
Authors: Almonacid-Fierro Alejandro , Valdebenito Karla
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic that has modified all social and, especially, learning instances. The purpose of this study was to determine the perception of final-year nursing students at a university in southern Chile regarding the impact of the pandemic on their learning, and consequently on their quality of life, in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This is a qualitative study. The research was conducted on 14 nursing students who were selected from a university located in the province of Talca, Maule Region, Chile. Data collection was done through semi-structured interviews conducted during July and September 2021. The data were analyzed using the inductive logic of theoretical categorization; this process was assisted by the Nvivo 10 program.

RESULTS:

Two mega categories were generated that accounted for the nursing students' experience during the COVID-19 pandemic: objective factors category and subjective factors category. Six subcategories were derived from these two categories: free time, social relationships, learning from practice, physical exercise, eating habits, and emotional state.

CONCLUSION:

The research findings indicate that the students, in addition to feeling upset about not being able to do the internship, also feel that they have not been able to acquire all the knowledge necessary for their training and professional development, since the virtual classes fail to deliver adequate learning as they lack the practical component that is so important in their careers. This has repercussions in the physical, social, and psychological areas, affecting their quality of life.
Assessment of knee and ankle proprioception during the third trimester of pregnancy and postpartum period among primiparous women
Authors: Wakkar Aditya , Patil Shubhangi P.
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Pregnant women experience falls, particularly in the third trimester. In this population, physiological changes, as well as ligament laxity, might influence joint proprioception and do not return to normal during the postpartum period. The prevalence of falls during pregnancy and postpartum periods imposes a need to study proprioception in pregnant women and the postpartum period.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

An observational longitudinal study was conducted in June 2018 in outpatient clinic Chinchwad Pune. A total of 36 primiparous women were included in the study by using purposive sampling. The mean and standard deviation of the age was 25.92 (2.59). Proprioception was assessed for the knee joint and the ankle joint during the third trimester of pregnancy and 6th and 12th week postpartum. Outcomes included were the Joint Reposition Test for both knee and ankle joints using UTHSCSA Image Tool Software 3.0. Repeated-measure ANOVA was performed for the normally distributed data, and nonparametric test Friedman's test was performed for data that were not distributed normally. The data was statistically analyzed using the SPSS software version 26. The level of significance was set at 0.05, confidence intervals of 95% were used.

RESULT:

The result revealed significant (P < 0.05) improvement in both knee and ankle proprioception during the third trimester of pregnancy and postpartum period 6th and 12th week.

CONCLUSION:

Knee proprioception and ankle proprioception were found to improve significantly during the postpartum period 6th and 12th weeks compared to the third trimester of pregnancy but do not return to the prepregnancy state.
Smartphone addiction and its associated behaviors among medical and dental students in Pakistan
Authors: Kamal Sufiyan , Kamal Shaheera , Mubeen Syed Muhammad , Shah Aresha Masood , Samar Syeda Sana , Zehra Rida , Khalid Haya , Naeem Ramsha
Published: July 2022

INTRODUCTION:

Addiction refers to the irresistible urge to engage in certain actions or dependence on a particular substance despite knowing negative consequences. The current study evaluated the severity of Smartphone addiction and the factors associated with cell phone-like activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted from July to August 2019 among medical and dental students in Karachi, Pakistan. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used among 400 students. The mobile phone addiction was assessed using a 20-item, Mobile Phone Addiction Scale. A two-stage cluster analysis was used to assess mobile phone addiction-like behaviours. Chi-square test was used to find associations between categorical variables. Kolmogorov–Smirnov to test normality of data were also used. A P < 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant for all tests.

RESULTS:

Out of the total 400 students, the majority 316 (79%) comprise female students. The mean age was 20.54 ± 1.59 years. In 184 (48%) students, there was evidence of mobile phone addiction-like behavior. The prevalence was higher in female than male students and among older compared to adolescent students; the differences were statistically nonsignificant. A higher median score ≥ of 4 is found in questions related to components reflected intense desire, impaired control, and tolerance and harmful mobile use.

CONCLUSION:

This study highlights that a large number of students are addicted to their smartphones. Smartphone addiction continues to be the most problematic addiction aided by the presence of intense desire, impaired control tolerance, and harmful mobile use. The phenomenon must be fully understood to draw deeper and richer inferences about the origins of this addictive behavior, which is becoming more prevalent in our Pakistani society on a daily basis.
Iranian nongovernmental organizations’ initiatives in COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Vameghi Meroe , Eftekhari Monir Baradaran , Falahat Katayoun , Forouzan Ameneh Setareh
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

With the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus crisis worldwide, including Iran, the need for corona prevention and treatment has become a national priority. With many businesses closed in the wake of COVID-19 and job losses and declining incomes, vulnerable individuals' and families' access to the minimum wage and healthcare facilities is falling, and their health is exposed to a great risk. In Iran, a significant number of vulnerable groups are supported by nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). This study is designed to understand the performance of NGOs after the onset of the COVID-19 crisis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was carried out based on qualitative research between June and September 2020 in Tehran. This study was conducted using individual interviews with 33 managers and experts of 24 active NGOs providing services to vulnerable groups and a member of an NGO network. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

RESULTS:

Two main themes of service initiatives were extracted: (a) service initiatives to protect the target population against COVID-19 infection and its aftermath and (b) management initiatives to retain staff, finance, and adapt the organization to crisis situations. Service initiatives included five categories of health service initiatives, livelihood, employment, education, and leisure initiatives, while organizational management initiatives include human resource management, financial management, and communication with organizations.

CONCLUSION:

The COVID-19 breadth and its special features have set it apart from other crises and have led NGOs to work hard on several fronts to care for the most vulnerable people against the epidemic and its consequences and maintain the performance of their organizations. The unique role of cyberspace has made it one of the definitive pillars of the activities of NGOs, not only during the epidemic but also after its end.
Impact of structured physical activity program on the level of functional ability of Persons with Mental Illness
Authors: Gorain Rinku Kumari , Ramu Rajalakshmi , Sinha Preeti , Govindan Radhakrishnan
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

A structured physical activity program has many health benefits. Physical activity improves the functional ability of a patient with mental illness as an adjunctive treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a physical activity program on the level of functional ability of patients with mental illness.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A pre-experimental research design and one group pre-post design were adopted. Thirty-one in-patients with mental illness who met the inclusion criteria were recruited for the study using convenient sampling. Baseline data were collected using sociodemographic and illness profiles developed by the researcher and validated by the experts. Functional ability and illness severity were assessed using the standardized World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS) (36-item version) and the Clinical Global Improvement Scale. Pretest, i.e., intervention with structured physical activity, was administered for 40 consecutive days. A posttest was given 30 days after the intervention ended to assess the impact of the structured physical activity program on the level of functional ability among the study participants.

RESULTS:

The impact of structured physical activity on functional ability was measured using the WHODAS 2.0, a 36-item version. The paired Sample t-test and the Wilcoxon Rank test analyzed the data. There was a significant improvement in the overall functional ability of study participants at P = 0. 001.

CONCLUSION:

The study findings support that structured physical activity substantially impacts functional ability among patients with mental illnesses.
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy among medical students
Authors: Venkatesan Kirthika , Menon Sukrita , Haroon Nisha Nigil
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Vaccine hesitancy leads to an increase in morbidity, mortality, and health-care burden. Reasons for vaccine hesitancy include anti-vax group statements, misinformation about vaccine side effects, speed of vaccine development, and general disbelief in the existence of viruses like COVID-19. Medical students are future physicians and are key influencers in the uptake of vaccines. Hence, investigating vaccine hesitancy in this population can help to overcome any barrier in vaccine acceptance.

METHODS:

In this paper, we review five articles on COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in medical students and consider potential future research. All published papers relevant to the topic were obtained through extensive search using major databases. Inclusion criteria included studies that specifically investigated COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in medical students published between 2020 and 2021. Exclusion criteria included studies that investigated vaccine hesitancy in health-care professionals, allied health, and viruses apart from COVID-19. A total of 10 studies were found from our search.

RESULTS:

Based on our exclusion criteria, only five studies were included in our review. The sample size ranged from 168 to 2133 medical students. The percentage of vaccine hesitancy in medical students ranged from 10.6 to 65.1%. Reasons for vaccine hesitancy included concern about serious side effects, vaccine efficacy, misinformation and insufficient information, disbelief in public health experts, financial costs, and belief that they had acquired immunity.

CONCLUSION:

These results suggest that vaccine hesitancy is an important cause of the incidence and prevalence of COVID-19 cases. Identifying the barriers of vaccine hesitancy in prospective physicians can help increase vaccination uptake in the general public. Further research is necessary to identify the root cause of these barriers.
World health organization-package of essential noncommunicable disease intervention in iran's health system based on 5As healthy lifestyle counseling model
Authors: Amini Najmolmolook , Rakhshanderou Sakineh , Ramezankhani Ali , Ghaffari Mohtasham
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

The Iran Package for Essential Noncommunicable Disease (Ira-PEN) program has been established since 2018 with the aim of controlling and caring of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) as well as their underlying causes in Iran. In this study protocol, a healthy lifestyle module will be used for the first time in Iran, which was recommended in 2018 by the World Health Organization to train health workers. This module relies on the 5As model, a training intervention design, then, implement, evaluate, and present the results to the managers and decision makers of the Ira-PEN program.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study will be performed in 2 stages, including 2 steps per stage. The first stage involves designing the 2 steps and validation of the healthy lifestyle counseling skills tool. The tool will encompass a health counseling evaluation checklist and a counseling assessment questionnaire according to the counseling recipients. The second stage also entails 2 steps; designing a training program for health workers in the field of healthy lifestyle counseling based on the Oles-Cement model followed by implementation and evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS:

The training program and the results obtained in this study will be presented to the managers and decision makers of both the Ira-PEN program and NCDs control in Iran, and it is suggested to enhance the training program, network, and educational curriculum of health workers in providing healthy lifestyle counseling to play a more effective role in changing the public behavior toward a healthy lifestyle and preventing the risk factors of NCDs.
The relationship between childbirth self-efficacy and coping styles of problem based and emotive based in nulliparous pregnant women
Authors: Heravan Mahsima Banaei , Rashki Sadaf
Published: July 2022

BACKGROUND:

Vaginal childbirth is the most stressful physical and mental event for most women, which necessitates the use of coping styles. Furthermore, childbirth self-efficacy will be one of the effective factors to cope with this stressful situation and doing compatible behaviors with childbirth pain. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the relationship between childbirth self-efficacy and coping styles of problem based and emotive based in nulliparous pregnant women.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study is a descriptive-correlational study that is done over 323 nulliparous pregnant women attending the health centers in the city of Zahedan in 2020–2021. Data were collected by participants' demographic questionnaire, childbirth self-efficacy questionnaire of Lowe, and coping styles questionnaire of Folkman and Lazarus. The data were analyzed using Spearman's correlation coefficient test, linear regressions model, and multiple regression in SPSS software version 22. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

Results of Spearman's correlation coefficient test showed a significant direct correlation between problem-based coping style and childbirth self-efficacy (P = 0/017, r = 0.13); but, there was no significant direct correlation with emotive-based coping style (P = 0/782, r = 0.01). According to the linear regressions model, just the problem-based coping style is predicted childbirth self-efficacy (P = 0/006).

CONCLUSIONS:

According to the findings, nulliparous pregnant women should be responsible, have a positive reassessment of vaginal childbirth, plan to solve their problems, and look for social support (all of these are part of a problem-based coping style) to increase and improve their childbirth self-efficacy. Furthermore, designing appropriate educational interventions based on problem-based coping style is necessary.
Anesthetic Considerations in COVID-19 Patients Undergoing Tracheostomy
Authors: Sarma Riniki , Mahendru Kiran , Pandit Anuja
Published: July 2022

Being an aerosol-generating procedure (AGP), tracheostomy for patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 poses a great risk of infection for health-care workers. We present a series of four COVID-19-infected cases who underwent surgical tracheostomy and discuss the anesthetic concerns regarding the same.