bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of oral metronomic chemotherapy on quality of life in advanced or metastatic head and neck cancers
Authors: Sharma Manish Kumar , Ramkumar B. , Raja G. , J. G. Atul , Parai Shaoni , Rooban N. Vasanth
Published: August 2024

Background: Oral Metronomic chemotherapy (OMCT) is an emerging therapeutic option in advanced/metastatic, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). It is ideal for frail patients not candidates for platinum-based chemotherapy, and who have minimal response with progressive worsening of quality of life (QOL). To assess the effect of OMCT on changes in quality of life (QOL) in advanced/recurrent HNSCC patients.
Methods: Patients with advanced/metastatic recurrent HNSCC, not amenable to radical therapy were included in the study. QOL was assessed with the European organization for research and treatment of cancer (EORTC) QLQ-C30 and QLQ-H&N 35 questionnaires at enrollment and at regular follow up intervals after starting MC.
Results: Out of 54 patients, 50 % patients had grade 3 or more pain at enrolment, which improved after OMCT with only 5 % having grade 3 or more pain at 6 months. Mean QLQ-C 30 score at the time of presentation was 68.4. With oral MC, there was a steady increase in QOL score QLQ-C30; 75.35 at 2 months, 81.26 at 4 months, and 85.38 at the end of 6 months. Mean QLQ-H and N 35 score at the time of presentation was 62.50, which gradually improved with oral MC; 71.16 at 2 months, 75.43 at 4 months, and 80.69 at the end of 6 months.
Conclusions: The use of oral metronomic therapy with methotrexate, gefitinib and celecoxib significantly improved the QOL and pain control in patients with advanced/recurrent HNSCC.
Candiduria in high-risk patients and its antifungal susceptibility testing
Authors: Shetty Mayuri P. , Bhakre Jayshree B. , Iravane Jyoti A.
Published: August 2024

Background: Candida is part of the natural microbiota of an individual's mouth cavity, gastrointestinal system, and vagina. Candida species are of clinical importance because they are the most common cause of nosocomial urinary tract infections (UTIs), oral candidiasis, and genitourinary candidiasis. The presence of budding yeast cells in urine can be a sign of extensive candidiasis, urinary tract infections, or sample contamination. It is necessary to confirm the presence of yeast cells in a fresh urine sample to differentiate contamination from colonization or infection. Numerous antifungals are available to treat candida infections. Over the last few decades, there has been an increase in antifungal resistance, especially against non-albican species.
Methods: A hospital-based retrospective observation study was conducted over 12 months, from January 2023 to December 2023 in department of microbiology at Government Medical College and Hospital Aurangabad (Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar), Maharashtra. A total of 2434 samples were received and processed according to standard operating procedures.
Results: A total of 38 (26.76%) C. albicans and 104 (73.23%) non-albicans species were isolated from 142 urine samples. C. tropicalis was the most frequently isolated Candida species (52.11%) from urine cultures, followed by C. albicans (26.76%), C. glabarata (8.45%), C. parapsillosis (7.04%), C. krusei (2.8%), and C. guilliermondii (2.8%). All Candida species were maximally susceptible to fluconazole, itraconazole, caspofungin, and voriconazole as compared to amphotericin B and ketoconazole.
Conclusions: The finding of candiduria in a patient with or without symptoms should be neither neglected nor hastily managed but requires a careful evaluation that should proceed in a logical manner.
Pediatric tracheostomy, its indications, outcome and need for family education: a study in a tertiary hospital
Authors: Sharma Kalpana , Basumatary Phoebe Sarah
Published: August 2024

Background: Paediatric age group remains a challenging patient group for any kind of surgical intervention. Tracheostomy in this age group remains a challenge and its indications have evolved and shifted over the years.
Methods: A prospective study of 1 year period where patients below 18 years of age undergoing tracheostomy were studied and analyzed. Literature for existing protocols/guidelines were studied and implemented. Data was grouped according to age, gender, indications, contraindications, decannulation trends, complications and mortality outcome.
Results: 17 elective paediatric tracheostomies were done out of which 5 patients were female and 12 were male. In the <1 year age group there were 2 patients (12%), 4 (24%) in the 1-5 years group, 5 (29%) in 6-10 years and 6 (35%) in the 11-18 years age bracket. Commonest indication was prolonged intubation (41.18%) followed by upper airway obstruction (29.41%). Complications that we faced which was the most common was blockage of tube (46.67%), followed by decannulation difficulty (20%).  
Conclusions: It is still a major challenge to standardize protocols for tracheostomy in paediatric age group as well as initiation of the care giver at home to follow adequate measures to manage children needing prolonged tracheostomy tube care.
Seropositivity of measles antibody- IgM in symptomatic pediatric patients with assessment of vaccination status in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Sarkar Kristi , Mullan Summaiya
Published: August 2024

Background: Measles is a febrile contagious viral illness caused by member virus of paramyxoviridae, commonly affecting paediatric population. It is a vaccine preventable disease. In spite of national immunisation programme in India, measles outbreaks are often encountered specially in pediatric population. This study aimed to assess the IgM seropositivity in acute cases of measles along with assessment of measles vaccination status.
Methods: This study was conducted in a department of microbiology of Government Medical College, Surat from March, 2022 to March, 2023 in which pediatric patients with febrile suspected of measles were included. Serum samples were received and recording of clinical history and vaccination profile were done. The samples were investigated for measles IgM antibodies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results: Out of 90 pediatric febrile patients with suspected measles, 44 (49%) were found to be IgM measles positive. Among 44 IgM positive cases, 44% children were previously vaccinated and 45% children were not vaccinated. Information on vaccination status were not available for 11% children. Majority (43%) of IgM seropositive children were of age less than 2 years.
Conclusions: In spite of ongoing national immunisation programme throughout the country, vaccination coverage is still not satisfactory and even if vaccinated, significant number of children are still getting infected with measles. Hence, studies are needed to identify the lacunae of ongoing programme and find out possible causes of lower vaccination protection.
An observational study for evaluating prescription pattern of drugs, adverse drug reactions in paediatric acute lymphoid leukaemia in a tertiary care hospital
Authors: S. Kulkarni A. , C. Shetty Y. , G. Narula
Published: August 2024

Background: Prescription research analyses trends in prescribing drugs as per rational therapeutics principles and if any deviations found  helps in providing vital feedback to physicians. Recent advances in cancer chemotherapy has improved survival rates in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukaemia (ALL), but the adverse drug reactions adds to disease burden, also compromises quality of life.  There is paucity of data on prescription audit, adverse drug reactions in paediatric ALL, hence the study was planned.
Methods: Study was cross-sectional prospective audit. After IEC approval, written informed consent were taken from 156 prospective ALL patients aged 1-15 years (completed one cycle of induction phase). The variables assessed were WHO prescribing indicators, completeness. The details of adverse drug reactions-type, severity, preventable; causality assessment (WHO-UMC, Naranjo Scales). Analyzed by descriptive statistics [Microsoft Excelv16.0].
Results: Out of total 156 prescriptions (2576 drugs prescribed), total drugs per prescription was 16. Most of the drugs were prescribed by generic name (97.94%). Commonest anticancer drug prescribed in regimen was vincristine, methotrexate. Most common supportive medication class were antiemetic, antacid, antiulcer. 100% prescriptions were complete for anticancer drugs, 66% for supportive care medications. Most common ADR found was alopecia (100%), febrile neutropenia (31.41%) and fatigue (30.76%). Majority ADR were possibly (93.81%) related to treatment. 37.97% ADR were of moderate severity, 100% ADRs were not preventable.
Conclusions: The commonest anti-cancer drugs prescribed are vincristine, methotrexate and supportive care prescribed is antiemetic therapy (granisetron). The frequent adverse drug reaction found was alopecia, febrile neutropenia.
Heparin-hidden pillar in the management of burns
Authors: Cacique Mauricio D. , Alvarado Ricardo L. , A. Maria del Carmen , Medina Diana B. , Diaz Oscar F. F. , Azcué Arsenio F. A.
Published: August 2024

Heparin has been used to treat burns for decades, but due to the lack of well-controlled clinical trials, this indication is little widespread and the calculation of dosage and application method becomes unclear. Its action on the burn is probably derived from its anti-inflammatory and angiogenic properties that do not depend on its known anticoagulant action, at the endothelial level, it reduces blood hyperviscosity, leukocyte count and acute phase reactants, and also reduces the need for escharotomies, fasciotomies and grafts. In the present study we confirmed that the use of topical heparin reduces healing time, epithelialization, as well as local discomfort, it can be used in second level hospitals not specialized in burns due to its easy systemic and topical application, being safe, which showed few complications despite being administered at high doses.
Combined appendiceal goblet cell adenocarcinoma and low grade mucinous neoplasm: a case report with unusual presentation
Authors: Jain Tanu , Rao Rashmi , Jain Vaibhav
Published: August 2024

Appendiceal tumours are uncommon. They mostly present with abdominal pain due to appendicitis or as an incidental finding in an appendicectomy specimen. After neuroendocrine tumours (NETs), mucinous neoplasms are the most common appendiceal tumours. Goblet cell adenocarcinoma (GCA) is rare and exclusive in appendix. This is a distinctive subset of amphicrine tumour composed of both goblet and endocrine cells. They are more aggressive as compared to the conventional appendiceal tumours. Presence of both the tumours in the same patient is a rare instance. These synchronous tumours pose challenges for diagnosis as well as management. Here, we present a case of an 80 years old female with combined GCA and low grade appendiceal mucinous neoplasm.
Perioperative management of patient with newly diagnosed hyperthyroidism
Authors: Nirmala Putu A. D. , Wulandari Dewi C.
Published: August 2024

Hyperthyroidism is a clinical condition caused by increased synthesis and secretion of thyroid gland hormones that affect the whole body. Its multi-organ effects and complications require adequate management in perioperative period. A 50-year-old patient was consulted to internal medicine for perioperative management for ureteroscopy procedure. Patient reported bilateral flank pain, nausea, vomiting, palpitation, and history of weight loss. Patient also has history of diabetes mellitus, on gliquidone. Physical examination presented pale conjunctiva, tachycardia, and soft tremor. Thyroid gland was enlarged, tender on palpation, no bruits were found. Peripheral blood count and thyroid function evaluation showed elevated white blood count, severe anaemia, elevated blood urea nitrogen and creatinine, decreased thyroid stimulating hormone and elevated free thyroxine. Ultrasound of thyroid gland concluded multiple cystic nodules. Wayne’s index is 20. Patient was administered 2 bags of packed red cells, insulin injection, propylthiouracil 3×200 mg, propranolol 3×10 mg, and hydrocortisone injection 2×100 mg prior to surgery. Patients with hyperthyroidism are recommended to be in euthyroid state prior to surgery. Hyperthyroid patients requiring emergent/urgent surgery are administered a combination of antithyroid drugs, corticosteroids, and beta-blockers to prevent thyroid storm. Propylthiouracil prevents production of thyroid hormones, corticosteroids inhibit hypermetabolism, and beta-blockers prevent sympathetic stimulation. Surgery was successful and thyroid storm did not occur.
Combining neurofeedback training and dhikr as adjuvant therapy for treating adolescent depression: a case report
Authors: Nugroho I. Gusti Bagus Indro , Suwito Djoko , Oktaviyantini Tri
Published: August 2024

Depression in adolescents is a significant mental health issue requiring effective therapeutic approaches. This case report evaluates the effectiveness of neurofeedback training and dhikr as adjuvant therapies for a 17-year-old female adolescent diagnosed with bipolar affective disorder, current episode severe depression with psychotic features. The subject underwent eight sessions of combined neurofeedback and dhikr therapy, which showed positive results. Initially, the subject experienced severe sadness, guilt, suicidal ideation, and auditory hallucinations. After the therapy, there was a significant reduction in depressive symptoms and an improvement in mental well-being. Evaluations using quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) and PHQ-A assessments showed improvements in brain wave activity and a reduction in depression scores from 16 (moderate to severe depression) to 8 (mild to moderate depression). The subject reported feeling calmer, less sad, and showed increased academic and social motivation. These results indicate that the combination of neurofeedback and dhikr can be an effective approach in managing adolescent depression by addressing both psychological and spiritual aspects. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings and explore the underlying mechanisms of this therapy's effectiveness.
Hereditary stomatocytosis vs elliptocytosis presenting recurrent pancreatitis
Authors: Ingle Achala Arvind , Gupta Ishank , Bhattacharya Meenakshi
Published: August 2024

Hereditary stomatocytosis is a rare autosomal dominant genetic disorder due to an abnormality of red cell permeability to monovalent cations resulting in alteration in water content of red cells. Hereditary elliptocytosis is autosomal dominant disorder caused by inherited mutations in genes encoding red cell membrane. Patient may show up with symptoms of varying severity. We present a case of 35-year-old male with recurrent episodes of abdominal pain, yellowish discolouration of eyes and skin, nausea and vomiting since 2015. He was treated symptomatically earlier but cause was still obscured. Patient underwent liver biopsy and multiple blood examinations but etiology was still not determined. In 2024 patient was again diagnosed with acute pancreatitis and acute kidney injury, evaluated for hyperbilirubinemia and MRCP was suggestive of cholelithiasis without cholecystitis. With a suspicion of hemolytic anemia, peripheral smear of the patient was done which revealed stomatocytosis vs elliptocytosis. Meanwhile Patient was stabilized and referred for genetic testing.
A rare case of basal cell adenoma arising in the soft palate
Authors: Dandala Sridhar R. , Gonuru Vinod K. , Punukollu Veena S.
Published: August 2024

According to the World Health Organization's (WHO) histological classification of salivary gland tumours, basal cell adenoma was classified as an independent tumour in 1991. Basal cell adenoma most commonly arises in the parotid gland and rarely in the minor salivary glands. Only 10 cases of basal cell adenoma arising in the palate have been reported so far in the literature, all of which have been managed surgically. We herein report a case of basal cell adenoma arising from the soft palate. The patient is a 46-year-old woman who noticed a mass on the left side of her palate since 8 years. After clinical and radiological examination, the patient was provisionally diagnosed with a benign palatal tumour. Excision of the tumour was performed by trans oral approach under general anesthesia. Histopathological examination was suggestive of basal cell adenoma, dermal type. No recurrence was noted after 1 year of follow up.
Chemical pneumonitis due to accidental aspiration of diesel: a case report
Authors: Ann Mariya Johnson  , Kirthi Nath Kariyil Viswanathan  , Shajahan P. Sulaiman  , Praveen Gopinathan Sudharma  , Manaf Mehaboob Abdul  , Balakrishnan Jayaprakash
Published: August 2024

A 39 year old male, with no significant previous medical illness, accidentally ingested diesel and subsequently developed chemical pneumonitis and he presented with typical clinical and radiological features of chemical pneumonitis. The diagnosis was confirmed by demonstrating foamy macrophages in bronchial lavage. The case is being reported due its rarity.
Liver damage and muscle injury associated with the use of statins
Authors: Chango Carlos A. , Torres Renato M. , Urbina Esteban D. , Dávila Luis P. , Valladares Alisson C. , Almeida Marcelo N. , Obando Maria C.
Published: August 2024

Pharmacological monitoring with positive and negative effects on the use of medications is an important aspect during the administration of different drugs. Adverse events generated by the misuse of medications have become one of the main causes of death worldwide and an urgent problem in the field of toxicology. Cardiovascular diseases currently occupy the top positions among the main causes of death worldwide, especially in older adults who, burdened by their different comorbidities, find themselves faced with the need to use multiple pharmacological therapies. Among them, statins are widely used to reduce bad cholesterol levels and thus be able to combat the formation of plaque at the coronary level, especially in patients with hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Although the use of statins worldwide generates broad benefits, there are different types of adverse reactions (ARs), including liver dysfunction and muscle damage, that affect the quality of life of people who use them. This review describes the mechanisms, epidemiology and rapid identification of hepatic and muscular effects associated with the use of statins.
Diabetes mellitus and periodontitis-a conundrum resolved
Authors: Chandran Nanditha , Anil Melath  , Arjun Machingal Raman  , Miran Abdul Khader  , Mirdhula Krishnamoorthy
Published: August 2024

Periodontitis is an inflammatory and infectious disease affecting the supporting structures of the tooth resulting in alveolar bone loss and tooth loss. Systemic diseases like diabetes have an intimate relation with periodontitis as they share common mechanisms in pathogenesis. Advanced Glycation Endproducts (AGEs) seen in diabetes patients binds with collagen and decreases the turnover. In the presence of preexisting periodontal inflammation, this collagen breaks down leading to periodontitis. On the other hand, inflammatory mediators in periodontitis can lead to tissue resistance to insulin, eventually increasing the blood glucose level, increasing the susceptibility to diabetes. Understanding the exact etiology of both diabetes and periodontitis helps clinician to educate and motivate their patients in managing their glycemic levels as well as to take proper precautions in treating and managing the periodontitis.
Nanotechnology based drug delivery in cancer treatment: enabling controlled and targeted release of medications
Authors: Gaurav Bajaj  , Gayathri Davu
Published: August 2024

The advent of nanotechnology in drug delivery has revolutionized cancer treatment, offering controlled and targeted release of therapeutic agents. This study investigates the impact and effectiveness of various nanoparticle-grounded drug delivery systems (DDSs) in cancer therapy. A qualitative analysis of secondary literature was conducted to explore the types, targeting mechanisms, and clinical applications of nanoparticles (NPs) in cancer treatment. The study categorized NPs into organic, inorganic, and hybrid types and examined their roles in passive and also active targeting of cancer cells. The findings reveal the significant diversity and efficacy of NPs in enhancing drug delivery efficiency while minimizing systemic toxicity. Notable examples of clinically approved nanotherapeutic formulation medications include Doxil®, Myocet®, and Abraxane®, which have shown improved drug pharmacokinetics and biodistribution. Nanotechnology offers transformative potential in cancer therapy, providing promising avenues for the development of advanced and personalized cancer therapeutics.
Association of psychological and physical health with quality of life in patients with haemophilia: a brief review
Authors: Dutta Himanish , Choudhry Dimple , Kumar Atri Sudhir , Sangeeta  , Jhandai Malika
Published: August 2024

Hemophilia is an inherited bleeding disorder that is caused by an x-linked deficiency of clotting factors VIII in hemophilia A and IX in hemophilia B. Hemophilia A is more common than hemophilia B accounting for approximately 80-85% of all cases. Patients with hemophilia face several challenges due to bleeding episodes such as chronic arthropathy, functional disabilities, and many other health issues. Consequently, patients with hemophilia experience psychological comorbidities such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. This emphasizes the importance of addressing both physical and mental health aspects in the overall care of these patients. To determine the association between psychological and physical health with quality of life in patients with hemophilia. This narrative review is conducted on databases from PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate. This review included 11 studies on the association between psychological and physical health with quality of life in patients with hemophilia. In conclusion, many studies show us different parameters between psychological health and physical health with quality of life in hemophilic patients but there is no research showing us the association between psychological and physical health with quality of life in hemophilic patients.
Sociocultural factors influencing utilization of reproductive health services in selected South Sudan public health facilities
Authors: Onak Emmanuel Timothy , Odongo Alfred Owino , Kariuki John
Published: August 2024

Background: Africa faces significant maternal health challenges, with nearly half of maternal deaths occurring in the region. Insufficient reproductive health services account for 18% of the global disease burden, disproportionately affecting women of reproductive age at 32%. Despite the benefits of family planning, only 13% of married women in Sub-Saharan Africa use contraceptives. This study aimed to identify sociocultural factors influencing the utilization of RHS in South Sudan's public health facilities.
Methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, the research combined a longitudinal ecological study and an analytical cross-sectional study. Data from the South Sudan Ministry of Health (2015-2020) were reviewed, and community members and health professionals were surveyed across four levels of the health system in Western and Central Equatoria states. The study focused on women aged 15-49, with 384 respondents selected from various counties.
Results: The study indicated that 72.5% of respondents utilized RHS, with family planning and STI prevention/management being the most common services (25.1% each). Maternal/newborn care and HIV counseling/testing followed at 18.1% and 15.3%, respectively. While RHS uptake increased overall, specific declines were noted in the third quarter of each year. Utilization was significantly higher among respondents aged 30 and older, urban residents, and those with higher educational levels.
Conclusions: The study highlights a positive trend in RHS uptake but underscores the need to address declines in specific services. Age, residence, and education significantly influence RHS utilization. Policy interventions should consider South Sudan's unique sociocultural contexts and demographics. Enhancing education and awareness, especially in rural areas, is crucial to improving RHS access and reducing maternal mortality rates.
Examining the impact of dispatch-assisted CPR on bystander CPR performing
Authors: Tippayanate Nantawan , Phonkanya Patchalee , Neungkantee Kanokwan , Neungkantee Kamonchanok , Raksapakdee Kwansiri , Boonnop Watcharaporn , Jitsuwan Natlada
Published: August 2024

Background: Dispatcher-assisted CPR involves emergency medical dispatchers (EMD) delivering real-time CPR instructions to callers during emergencies. This method aims to enable timely bystander CPR before the arrival of emergency medical services, improving survival rates and neurological outcomes of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA). This study evaluates the effectiveness of telephone-guided CPR instructions using retrospective audio data.
Methods: A retrospective study analyzed OHCA incidents in Mahasarakham, Songkhla, and Prachinburi within a metropolitan EMS system. Audiotapes from emergency calls between January and December 2021 were reviewed. Included were OHCA patients who called the dispatch center and were transported to the hospital by EMS. Exclusions included cardiac arrests in nursing homes, doctors' offices, and jails, as well as cases where EMS witnessed the OHCA or callers initiated CPR before receiving instructions.
Results: The study analyzed 280 patients, with 146 callers (52.1%) agreeing to perform CPR. Among the provided DA-CPR instructions, 18 items were significantly associated with bystander CPR performance. Five items that could be omitted to reduce OHCA recognition time delay include the introduction, requesting contact numbers, inquiring about the number of patients, assessing scene safety, and advising tilting the patient in case of vomiting.
Conclusions: To reduce the delay in identifying cardiac arrest and promptly initiating chest compressions during OHCA, it is suggested to employ a video call system for early detection of abnormal breathing and unconsciousness. Additionally, integrating automatic geolocation can expedite EMS response.
A study on scenario and assessment of health camps in north Karnataka by KLE’s Dr. Prabhakar Kore hospital: facilitate health care to community people
Authors: Koppad Rajashree , Kudachi Allamprabhu B. , M. Dayanand , Kunchanur Mahantesh
Published: August 2024

Background: Health-camps offering specific populations brief medical interventions could be helpful as 60% of India’s population lacks access to basic medical facilities. This study provides useful insights for organizing, planning, and implementing health-camps by epidemiologically analyzing a health-camp event in a rural area in southern India; arranging and planning health-camps, as well as using exit interviews to gauge participants’ expectations and levels of satisfaction; determine the health issues that impoverished residents of Belagavi district. Health-camp is a strategy for universal health coverage used by highly qualified doctors to offer the underprivileged affordable care.
Methods: A self-structured questionnaire was utilized to interview 219 beneficiaries for the research. These were divided into sections containing participant sociodemographic data, 21 items that evaluate satisfaction of health camps and question concerning expectations of post camps. 4-point rating system was employed to collect the responses: poor (1) to excellent (4). Ages ≥14 for men or women. Along with medical or non-medical services, the questionnaire also included questions about camp site accessibility, reception counters, initial medical check-ups, screening tests, behavior of doctors and other staff, waiting times, drug supply, preliminary information, referrals, length of health camp, cleanliness, and camp performance overall. The participants’ average age was 40.2 years.
Results: Both genders participated equally in study, 76% married and 46% participants studied up to high school. 59% of the participants, belong to a nuclear family, rural residence (81%), occupation 33% housewife and 26% business. More number of participants (46.51%) received information about camps through the village announcement.
Conclusions: The health camp was conducted and appreciated by most of the participants and suggested to continue the same health camps programme to promote good health every one the area.
A study to assess the knowledge and practice of women regarding dengue in rural area of Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: Kumar Shishir , Shishir Preeti , Lata Kusum , Kudi Surat Ram
Published: August 2024

Background: Dengue affects 390 million people yearly. 70% global disease burden is from Asia. Every fourth person infected with dengue get sick and about one in 20 people infected with dengue develop severe dengue. Aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of women regarding dengue in rural area of Meerut, U.P.
Methods: A descriptive survey was done to conduct this study. Multistage random sampling was used to select study area and participants. Data has been collected from 50 participants. Self-developed knowledge questionnaire and checklist was prepared to measure knowledge and practices of people regarding knowledge and practices.
Result: Most of the participants were between age group 18-23 years and were homemakers. All participants had previous knowledge about Dengue and source of information was TV/radio/newspaper for most of the participants. In this study 74% of participants has moderately adequate knowledge level, 16% had adequate and 10% had inadequate knowledge level. In regard to practices, 72% participant have satisfactorily practices, 20% had moderately satisfactorily practices and of 8 % participant non satisfactorily practices regarding prevention and management of dengue.
Conclusion: Majority of participants had adequate knowledge and satisfactorily practices but still it is needed to organize awareness campaign to disseminate knowledge regarding dengue to community people of all age groups to improve their practices in this regard.
Cultural practice and determinants of newborn care in rural areas of Ramanagara district in Karnataka: a community-based study
Authors: Prasad K. N. , Puttaswamy M. , M. Maheshwari
Published: August 2024

Background: There is considerable drop in neonatal mortality in India attributing to strategies by the National Health Mission and in rural areas cultural practices also plays role. The knowledge of recent cultural practices was intended and thus, the objective of this study was to explore the cultural practices and determinants in neonatal care in rural areas of Ramanagara district.
Methods: The community based, cross sectional, descriptive and exploratory study was done in selected villages. The recently born baby in the family was included as subject irrespective of their birth order and sex. Data collected by direct interview of mothers at their door steps using the pre tested, semi open-ended questionnaire containing relevant information about cultural practices in the family. Data was analysed in SPSS software version 23.
Results: Sex ratio among 550 newborns was 1:1. Birth orders of first and second or above were 59.5% and 40.5%. Majority of the mothers delivered at government hospitals (95%) and by vaginal delivery. The duration of hospital stay was less than 3 days in 52.5%. Breast feeding was initiated among 98% within 24 hours after birth, first bathing and oil massage after birth was within 7 days and 14 days respectively in majority. The prevalence of LBW was 19.5% and pre lacteal feeding was 21.1%.
Conclusions: The newborn care practices are better in this community. However, the pre lacteal and top feeding practices to be discouraged by appropriate health education to the mothers and care takers immediately after birth.
Prevalence and associated factors of geriatric depression among institutionalised senior citizens: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Xavier Mary Ancy N. , Vathathu Krishnan Usha
Published: August 2024

Background: Ageing is an inevitable process. As a result of empty nest syndrome, the senior citizens of Kerala, are forced for institutionalization. Prevalence of mental morbidity among institutionalized senior citizens outnumbers those living in families. Depression is one of the most common psychiatric morbidities among senior citizens. The present study aims to determine the prevalence and factors associated with geriatric depression among institutionalized senior citizens of Ernakulam district.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted over a period of 3 months among 238 institutionalised senior citizens aged 60 years and above using geriatric depression scale- short form (GDS-SF). Data was entered and analysed using SPSS.
Results: Among participants, 23.11% reported mild depression, 4.20% had moderate and 7.14% had severe depression. Chi-square test was used to study the association of various factors with geriatric depression. Previous employment status, source of income, frequency of visit by relatives, contact with relatives through phone, duration of leisure time activities and sleep quality showed a statistically significant association.
Conclusions: The study highlights the need for regular screening activities. Further research is necessary on identification of modifiable risk factors.
Prevalence, patterns and determinants of unmet needs of contraception among married women in Imphal East district of Manipur: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rajkumari Bishwalata , Maisnam Annie Bichal , Devi Oinam Gunipriya , Yumnam Rajshri
Published: August 2024

Background: In many countries, unmet need for family planning among pregnant women is a main reason of closely spaced births, child bearing at a very early age, unsafe abortions or physical abuse, all of which are considered as main co-factors to high maternal and infant mortality. Understanding the unmet need of contraception and contraceptive behaviour among married women will help in enhancing the service provision among them. The study was done with the objective to estimate the prevalence of unmet need of contraception and patterns of contraceptive usage among currently married women and to determine the association between unmet need of contraception and some selected variables.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using pre-tested, semi-structured questionnaire among currently married women. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify factors associated with the unmet need of contraception. A p value of <0.05 was taken as statistically significant.
Results: Out of 300 respondents, more than half (165, 55.0%) had unmet needs of contraception. Age of the participant AOR=1.057 (1.013-1.103), self-employed AOR=0.433 (0.222-0.844), pregnant at present AOR = 7.693 (2.868-20.635), discussing about FP with husband AOR=0.534 (0.305-0.936) and those ever received FP services AOR=2.794 (1.579-4.944) were significantly associated with unmet need of contraception.
Conclusions: Five out of ten women were found to have unmet need for contraception. Awareness programs regarding importance of family planning and various family planning services available at health facilities should be conducted from time to time among the public.
Insights into student perspectives regarding food fortification in a private medical and engineering college, Bhubaneswar, Odisha: a qualitative study
Authors: Kar Sonali , Singh Snigdha , Patnaik Liwa , Bhowmick Sneha
Published: August 2024

Food fortification is a crucial public health intervention aimed at addressing nutrient deficiencies and improving overall health outcomes. There is need in diet enhancement as macronutrient and micronutrient deficiency can lead to malnutrition in the long run. Young adults are the budding future of the community and their perception on food fortification and its adaptation can help the policy makers to generate better ways to implement it. This review article presents findings from a qualitative exploration of awareness regarding food fortification among students in a private college in Bhubaneswar, Odisha through an academic program. Through focus group discussions (FGDs), we investigated students' (medical and engineering) understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of food fortification. Among the medical students, 50% were aware about food fortification, 40% were in favour of it and only 10% had misconception regarding food fortification. Whereas, among the engineering students, 72.2% were aware, 45.45% were in favour and none had any misconception or myth related to food fortification. To create awareness and promote fortified food, engineering students suggested better ideas than medical students. This analysis revealed insights into perceptions, knowledge gaps, and potential strategies for enhancing awareness and promoting the adoption of fortified foods.
Burden of noncommunicable diseases and COVID-19 pandemic prevention and control strategies
Authors: Katole Ashwini
Published: August 2024

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in 21st century. The risk factors for development and progression of NCDs include sedentary lifestyle, inadequate fruits and vegetables intake, tobacco use, high blood pressure, high total cholesterol levels, obesity, high salt intake, low physical activity, and air pollution. People with NCDs and comorbidities like hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory infection and cancer are more vulnerable to severe COVID-19 infection that ultimately results into mortality. To reduce the impact of NCDs on COVID-19 cases, prevention is the best measure. Primary and secondary level prevention of NCDs plays a main role to control bad outcome in COVID-19 cases. The strategies that are required to address this comorbidity includes integration and convergence of the existing communicable and NCD programs, strengthening health care systems by giving major focus on primary health care services, health and wellness centers, universal health coverage, updating guidelines, enhancing community participation, capacity building, appropriate policy making, multi-sectoral participation and coordination.
Unraveling innovative treatments for spinal muscular atrophy: a brief review
Authors: Naseem Sadia , Fatima Shireen , Vijaya D. Navya Sai
Published: August 2024

In the past few years, there have been amazing breakthroughs in treating spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which is a big deal considering it's been studied for over a hundred years. Now, there are three approved therapies that all work to increase SMN protein production. They do this by fixing the genetic problem either by replacing the faulty SMN1 gene or by helping the SMN2 gene produce more of the right kind of protein. One way they do this is by using a special virus called adeno- associated viral vectors (AAV9) to deliver the gene therapy because the SMN1 gene is small enough to fit inside. The paper discusses the evolution of SMA treatment, focusing on advancements like gene therapy and new drug treatments. It highlights challenges in interpreting efficacy, especially regarding disease classification. Despite successes, issues like limited trial populations and varying disease stages pose complexities in care. With expanding treatment options, including those in advanced development stages, the landscape of SMA management grows more intricate. However, the importance of timely diagnosis and interdisciplinary clinical management remains crucial, recognizing that despite drug treatments, many patients still face significant disease burdens. This article aims to give a quick rundown of spinal muscular atrophy, starting from when people first noticed the disease up until now, when there are some really cool new treatments that are changing how the disease affects people.
Políticas Públicas Educacionais no Ensino Superior à Distância: uma Revisão Sistemática de Literatura
Authors: Bastos Evangelina de Mello , Gonçalves Dayene Mendes Silva , Santos Silvana Claudia dos , Almeida Fernanda Maria de , Pereira Luiz Ismael
Published: August 2024

Este estudo tem como objetivo compreender o que vêm sendo discutido sobre políticas públicas educacionais no ensino superior brasileiro e sua interface com a educação à distância (EaD). Trata-se de uma Revisão Sistemática da Literatura utilizando o protocolo PRISMA, com recorte de estudos nacionais publicados entre os anos de 2013 e 2023. Os artigos foram identificados através de buscas nas seguintes bases de dados eletrônicos: Web of Science, Scielo, Periódico Capes e Spell. Os resultados evidenciam a importância do EaD para ampliar o acesso ao ensino superior diante de desafios socioeconômicos e geográficos, como falta de regulamentação adequada, financiamento insuficiente e influência crescente do setor privado nesta modalidade de ensino. Além disso, a Universidade Aberta do Brasil destaca-se como marco significativo no EaD. Conclui-se que apesar dos avanços, persistem obstáculos que demandam aprimoramento das políticas públicas para garantir acesso equitativo, qualidade e democratização do ensino superior à distância no Brasil. 
 
Palavras-chave: Políticas públicas. Ensino superior. EaD. Prisma.
Educação a Distância na Modernidade Líquida: uma Reflexão na Perspectiva Bauniana
Authors: Caetano Alessandra Monteiro Pattuzzo , Achilles Daniele , Sabbag Deise
Published: August 2024

O presente artigo tem como objetivo analisar as relações entre o conceito de modernidade líquida baumaniana com a modalidade educação à distância (EAD) incorporada às transformações socioeconômicas e culturais em tempos líquidos na educação.  O conceito de modernidade líquida conduz o modo de vida sem critérios, e ou modelos a seguir. É uma pesquisa de natureza qualitativa, do tipo descritiva – exploratória e quanto aos meios, essa pesquisa classifica-se como bibliográfica, a qual foi realizada a partir da consulta em publicações de Zygmunt Bauman e autores afins. A educação em tempos líquido-modernos precisa acompanhar as mudanças sociais buscando novas diretrizes e posicionamentos. A fase líquida moderna relatada por Bauman vem se desdobrando desde a segunda metade do século XX, sofrendo mudanças nos contextos políticos que influenciam diretamente no comportamento dos indivíduos entres eles a forma do trabalho, as relações interpessoais, a cultura e a educação.
 
Palavras-chave: Modernidade líquida - Zygmunt Bauman. Educação a distância. Educação líquida.
Effect of Adding Dibutyltin Dilaurate on the Quality of Polyurethane Paint for Applications in the Automotive Industry
Authors: Fitriani Sri Endah , Puspasari Ifa , Elisa Kusrini
Published: August 2024

In the automotive paint industry, the paint is attached by spraying, followed by a drying process using a baking oven process. For bumpers made from polypropylene (PP) plastic, the oven drying temperature is 80°C. The drying process is often difficult because it requires low temperatures and extended drying times. Therefore, additional raw materials (additives) are needed, which function as catalysts to speed up the drying process. Dibutyltin dilaurate (DBTDL) is an organotin catalyst used in the paint industry. This research aimed to investigate the effect of DBTDL addition on the properties of polyurethane paint used in the automotive industry. The variables of this research include concentration, temperature, and drying time. The properties tested were hardness, adhesion, and gloss. The research method consisted of three stages, namely the preparation stage, application stage, and testing stage. The research results found that the best hardness was obtained at temperatures of 80°C and 90°C, concentrations of 0.2% and 0.3%, and drying times of 25 minutes and 30 minutes. The adhesion test showed 100% results for all samples except at temperatures of 80°C and 90°C, a concentration of 0.3%, and a drying time of 30 minutes. The gloss test results showed a value of more than 90%. From the results of hardness, adhesion, and gloss tests, it can be concluded that the best condition was achieved at a concentration of 0.2% with a drying time of 30 minutes and a temperature of 80-90°C.
Extent of Parents Involvement in Enhancing Public Secondary School Students' Discipline in Siha District, Tanzania
Authors: Richard Mecklean , Evans Okendo Ogoti , Gadi Koda Koda
Published: August 2024

Abstract: 
This study investigated the extent to which parent involvement can enhance the discipline of public secondary school students in Siha District. The study employed a convergent design under a mixed-method approach. The targeted population of 17 public secondary schools contains 17 heads of schools, 17 discipline teachers, and 7553 students from public secondary schools in Siha District. A stratified random sampling technique was used to sample 380 students from 15 schools, and a total population purposive sampling technique was used for 15 heads of schools and 15 discipline teachers to form a sample of 410 respondents. The study utilised questionnaires and interview guides for data collection, with instrument validation done by experts in educational planning and admiration at Mwenge Catholic University. The established reliability coefficients for students Likert items found in questionnaires were 0.842. The reliability of qualitative research tools was established through triangulation. The qualitative data were presented in narrative form and direct quotations and analysed thematically. The quantitative data were presented in a table and summarised in frequencies, percentages, and mean scores. Rigorous adherence to ethical concerns all over the study. The study found that, to a large extent, parent involvement enhances discipline among public secondary school students. The study concluded that parental involvement is crucial in improving student discipline in public secondary schools. The study recommends prioritising parental involvement in addressing student discipline issues rather than resorting to other strategies.