bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Pressure on High-Temperature Oxidation of Ferritic Stainless Steels
Authors: Spotorno Roberto , Piccardo Paolo
Published: November 2023

High-temperature oxidation is a widely studied topic in the field of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells as it commonly affects the steels used in stacks and other system components. Considering the targeted lifetime of systems using this technology (> 60kh), long-term testing is required to certify material properties throughout the life cycle. The design of accelerated testing is often cited as a way to speed the development and validation of materials for these components. In this work, the effect of pressure (1 to 4 bar) at various operating temperatures (750 to 850°C) on the oxidation kinetics and electrical properties of AISI 441 steel was investigated. While oxide growth was affected by pressure at all test temperatures, electrical properties showed significant changes only at 850°C. The results were supported by theoretical calculations of the oxidation and chromium evaporation kinetics of the steel.
Delamination Fracture in a Medium-Carbon Low-Alloy Steel Subjected to Tempforming
Authors: Dudko Valeriy , Yuzbekova Diana , Gaidar Sergey , Mironov Sergey , Kaibyshev Rustam
Published: November 2023

The effect of tempforming on strength and fracture toughness of a 0.4%C-2%Si-1%Cr- 1%Mo-VNb steel was examined. Tempering at a temperature of 600°C followed by plate rolling at the same temperature results in the formation of lamellar structure with a spacing of 72 nm between longitudinal boundaries and a lattice dislocation density of ~1015 m−2 that enhances fracture toughness in normal direction of tempformed plate. The increase in the absorbed impact energy is attributed to delamination, which occurs in plains intersecting the propagation path of main crack that blunts crack tip.
Hot Stamping of Heavy-Gaged - Full Development and the Effect of Press Hardening Process on the Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of 22MnB5 + NbMo Alloyed
Authors: Braga Vagner , Taiss Ed Juarez Mendes , de Almeida Diego Tolotti , da Costa e Silva André Luiz Vasconcellos
Published: November 2023

For saving mass, to improve the payloads and the durability of commercial vehicles, it is necessary to increase the thickness range of PHS - Press Hardening Steel, replacing low strength steel grades on structural and saving parts. This work presents the industrial development of Heavy-Gaged PHS-Press hardening Steel (4-8mm) starting from the alloy design concept, especially adding niobium to promote a fine and homogeneous microstructure. The development included hot forming simulations, in order to achieve martensitic microstructure through the thickness, correlating with cooling rates and mechanical characteristics, after quenching, as well as welding qualification and fatigue evaluation. Furthermore, were presented the characterization of 22MnB5(Nb+Mo) steel after industrial hot stamping that were evaluated mechanical properties, using the Vickers 10Kgf and the relationship between the microstructure and the thermodynamic aspects.
Towards High Strength-Ductility Balance Using Double Annealing Cycles
Authors: Arlazarov Artem , Pipard Jean Marc , Kabou Nora , Targy Pierre , Thénot Marc Olivier
Published: November 2023

Impact of first annealing on the formation and evolution of the microstructure during second annealing and on the final mechanical properties was investigated. Simple Fe-C-Mn-Si steel was used in this study. Dilatometry tests coupled with metallographic examinations were carried out to monitor the evolution of phase transformations and associated microstructure. Difference in the austenite evolution between simple and double annealing was highlighted. Based on the obtained results, conditions were selected for the annealing trials on bigger sample. Mechanical properties of heat-treated steels were assessed through the standard tensile tests. Double annealing treatment resulted in a better strength-ductility balance and in a good stability against soaking and quenching temperature variation. Complex ultra-fine multiphase microstructure containing at least 5 different microstructural constituents was revealed and observed using Scanning Electron Microscopy. As well, retained austenite fraction was estimated through magnetization saturation method.
Premium Rail Flash-Butt Welding Process Window Based on Phase Transformations
Authors: Pereira Henrique Boschetti , Echeverri Edwan Anderson Ariza , Centeno Dany Michell Andrade , Alves Luiz Henrique Dias , Goldenstein Hélio
Published: November 2023

Currently, heavy-haul and passenger rails are joined by a welding process, which can be either flash-butt welding or thermite. The joining process has increased the overall rails strength, but the welding parameters optimization is tricky and must be performed and studied to improve the weld quality. Heavy-haul rails are high carbon steels, containing alloying elements and as such, the weld presents a series of difficulties. On one side, martensite should be avoided during the cooling step, while on the other, the HAZ should be minimized as it is known to be prone to localized wear and rolling contact fatigue. Finite element simulations were performed to map the weld cooling rates and corresponding heat-affected zone (HAZ) width. CCT curves of rail steels were determined using dilatometry for different austenitizing temperatures. Comparing the simulations with the CCT data, processing windows able to prevent martensite formation were determined, usually corresponding to a critical cooling rate of 2 °C/s. The correlation with the simulations showed that the shorter the HAZ length, the greater the chance of martensite formation due to the higher cooling rate. The methodology developed and presented in this paper can be used for simulations considering phase transformations or determining the microstructure formed from different thermal welding cycles, depending on the distance from the heat source during the welding process.
Microstructure and Mechanical Properties of A6061/GA980 Resistance Spot Weld
Authors: Nonomura Toshiki , Kosaka Tsuyoshi , Kobayashi Tatsuya , Shohji Ikuo , Iyota Muneyoshi
Published: November 2023

Resistance spot welding was performed on steel and an Al alloy to investigate the microstructural and mechanical properties of the joint. An Al-Mg-Si aluminum alloy A6061 and an alloyed zinc-plated steel sheet GA980 were used as specimens. Resistance spot welding was performed at welding currents of 16 kA, 20 kA, and 22 kA, welding time of 0.24 s, and welding pressure of 5 kN. To investigate the strength of the welds, the tensile shear test and the cross tension test were conducted, and the fatigue test was also conducted. The nugget diameter increased with an increase in the welding current. The tensile shear strength and cross tension strength increased with the increase in the welding current. In the tensile shear fatigue test, interface fracture was observed in the low cycle fatigue region. In the cross tension fatigue test, it was confirmed that the higher the welding current, the better the fatigue properties in the low-cycle fatigue region.
Phase Transformations in Layered Composites Based on Zr, Nb, Ta or Ti Sheet Explosively Welded to Stainless Steel Plate
Authors: Paul Henryk , Puchlerska Sandra , Prażmowski Mariusz , Chulist Robert , Miszczyk Magdalena M.
Published: November 2023

The composites based on reactive metals (Zr, Ta, Nb, Ti) sheets explosively welded to stainless steel plates were investigated using X-ray synchrotron radiation, TEM and SEM to characterize phase transformations in near-the-interface layers. SEM and TEM investigations of the solidified melt regions unveiled amorphous and nanocrystalline non-equilibrium phases of variable chemical compositions, incorporating elements from the joined components. Phase analysis in layers near the interface carried out using high-resolution synchrotron radiation show predominantly reflections coming from the main elements of parent sheets/plates. Nevertheless, a closer look at the diffraction patterns shows the presence of reflections coming from the phases based on the two-component equilibrium phase diagrams. The measurements performed at the interface, but including only the steel plate, revealed significant amounts of α-Fe, γ-Fe and ε-Fe phases. Their appearance was attributed to the high pressure and fast cooling rates, which promoted a martensitic transformation in steel.
Effect of Rapid Induction Tempering on the Mechanical Properties and Microstructure of Ultra-High Strength Steel
Authors: Haiko Oskari , Kaijalainen Antti , Iso-Junno Terho , Jaskari Matias , Kömi Jukka I.
Published: November 2023

Rapid induction can be utilized to decrease the time and energy used for heat-treatment of steels. In the present study, a commercial 500 HB grade wear-resistant steel was subjected to rapid induction tempering and compared to conventionally furnace tempered samples. The martensitic ultra-high strength steel was cut to narrow thin sheets, which were tempered at 200, 300, 400, and 500 °C with both methods. The rapid tempering was applied with an in-house built induction line, in which the samples were moved through an induction coil. The velocity of the samples was adjusted to ensure constant temperature control. The applied heating rate was 1000–1100 °C/s resulting in extremely rapid tempering times. The conventionally tempered samples were heated in a pre-heated furnace for 45 min and cooled in still air. The samples were tested for tensile and hardness properties and microstructural characterization was conducted. Results revealed only minor differences between the differently treated steels. Elongation was slightly improved with the induction treatment. Therefore, the induction tempering appeared to result in similar or even slightly better tensile properties and can be considered a promising alternative for tempering processes in future steelmaking.
Sustainability of the Service Sector of India
Authors: Bhowmik D.
Published: November 2023

The paper examined the linear and non-linear trends of the share of the service sector as a percentage of GDP in India during 1960-2021 using the Regression Analysis and the Hamilton Regression Filter Model. It also studied the relationship between the service sector share and FDI, trade, total debt service and Inflation in India during 1970-2021. The paper verified the convergence of net state value added in services of Indian states from 2004/05-2021/22. The paper found a significant upward linear trend, and in nonlinear cases, the share of the services showed cycles, cyclical trends and seasonal variations. The share of the service sector positively affects trade, total debt service, inflation of the economy and FDI. The net state value added in services showed significant Sigma convergence and insignificant Beta convergence from 2004/05- 2021/22.
A. K. Enamul Haque, Pranab Mukhopadhyay, Mani Nepal, and Md Rumi Shammin. (2021): Climate Change and Community Resilience: Insights from South Asia
Authors:  Priyankara E. A. C.
Published: November 2023

No abstract available
Perception of Long-Term Oxygen Therapy
for Chronic Lung Diseases May Affect Poor Adherence in Korea
Authors: Kim Hyo Jin , Lee Hongyeul , Yang Ji Young , Lee Jae Ha , Ra Seung won , Hong SungMin , Lee Ho Young , Kim Sung Hyun , Kim Mi-Yeong , Lee Hyun-Kyung
Published: November 2023

Background: Long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) improves the survival of patients with hypoxemia due to chronic respiratory diseases. The clinical outcomes of LTOT are strongly associated with patient adherence. To improve the adherence of patients, physicians have focused on the efficacy of LTOT. However, poor adherence may stem from patients’ perceptions of LTOT. Herein we evaluated patients’ perceptions of LTOT affecting adherence.Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey study using descriptive, open, and closed-ended questionnaire. Patients using oxygen therapy (OT) or requiring it but avoiding OT responded to the questionnaires at three university hospitals.Results: Seventy-nine patients responded to the questionnaires. The number of patients using home and portable OT was 69 (93%) and 37 (46.3%), respectively. Patients with good adherence were 22 (30.1%). Among patients with good adherence, 90.9% used oxygen according to physicians’ prescriptions whereas only 37.3% of those with poor adherence followed physicians’ prescriptions (p<0.01). The reasons for avoiding using home OT were fear of permanent use (50%), unwanted attention (40%), and lack of symptoms (40%). They avoided portable OT because of unwanted attention (39%), heaviness (31.7%), and lack of symptoms (21.6%).Conclusion: Patients on LTOT had the perception of the misunderstanding the effects of OT and of psychosocial barriers to initiate or use LTOT. Considering these findings, health professionals need to provide effective education on the purpose of LTOT to improve patient adherence to OT and provide sufficient support for the management of psychosocial barriers in patients using LTOT.
The Microbial Tryptophan Metabolite Contributes to the Remission of Salmonella typhimurium Infection in Mice
Authors: Li Yingying , Li Junqi , Jia Dan , Gao Shandian , Guo Yanan , Liu Junlong , Wang Jinming , Guan Guiquan , Luo Jianxun , Yin Hong , Xiao Sa , Li Youquan
Published: November 2023

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (S. Tm) causes severe foodborne diseases. Interestingly, gut microbial tryptophan (Trp) metabolism plays a pivotal role in such infections by a yet unknown mechanism. This study aimed to explore the impact of Trp metabolism on S. Tm infection and the possible mechanisms involved. S. Tm–infected C57BL6/J mice were used to demonstrate the therapeutic benefits of the Bacillus velezensis JT3-1 (B. velezensis/JT3-1) strain or its cell-free supernatant in enhancing Trp metabolism. Targeted Trp metabolomic analyses indicated the predominance of indole-3-lactic acid (ILA), an indole derivative and ligand for aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). Based on the 16S amplicon sequencing and correlation analysis of metabolites, we found that B. velezensis supported the relative abundance of Lactobacillus and Ligilactobacillus in mouse gut and showed positive correlations with ILA levels. Moreover, AHR and its downstream genes (especially IL-22) significantly increased in mouse colons after B. velezensis or cell-free supernatant treatment, suggesting the importance of AHR pathway activation. In addition, ILA was found to stimulate primary mouse macrophages to secrete IL-22, which was antagonized by CH-223191. Furthermore, ILA could protect mice from S. Tm infection by increasing IL-22 in Ahr+/− mice, but not in Ahr−/− mice. Finally, Trp-rich feeding showed amelioration of S. Tm infection in mice, and the effect depended on gut microbiota. Taken together, these results suggest that B. velezensis–associated ILA contributes to protecting mice against S. Tm infection by activating the AHR/IL-22 pathway. This study provides insights into the involvement of microbiota-derived Trp catabolites in protecting against Salmonella infection.
Conditional NKT Cell Depletion in Mice Reveals a Negative Feedback Loop That Regulates CTL Cross-Priming
Authors: Heuser-Loy Christoph , Baumgart Ann-Kathrin , Hackstein Carl-Philipp , Courrèges Christina J F , Philipp Marie-Sophie , Thaiss Christoph A , Holland Tristan , Evaristo César , Garbi Natalio , Kurts Christian
Published: November 2023

NKT cells are unconventional T cells whose biological role is incompletely understood. Similar to TH cells, activated NKT cells can cause dendritic cell (DC) maturation, which is required for effective CTL responses. However, it is unclear whether and how NKT cells affect CTLs downstream of the DC maturation phase. This is partially due to the lack of techniques to conditionally deplete NKT cells in vivo. To overcome this problem, we have developed two approaches for this purpose in mice: the first is based on mixed bone marrow chimeras where Jα18 knockout and depletable CD90 congenic bone marrow is combined, and the second used PLZFCre × iDTR bone marrow chimeras, which target innate-like T cells. Using these tools, we found that NKT cell depletion at 20 h, that is, after initial DC activation, did not render CTLs helpless, as CD40L signaling by non-NKT cells sufficed. Instead, NKT cell depletion even augmented CD8 T cell expansion and cytotoxicity by mechanisms distinct from reduced STAT6 signaling. These findings revealed a negative feedback loop by which NKT cells control CTL cross-priming downstream of DC maturation. The techniques described in this study expand the toolbox to study NKT cells and other unconventional T cell subsets in vivo and uncovered a hidden immunoregulatory mechanism.
A narrative review on prediabetes or diabetes and atrial fibrillation: From molecular mechanisms to clinical practice
Authors: Han Xuyao , Liu Ying , Li Guangping , Tse Gary , Liu Tong
Published: November 2023

Based on glucose levels, people fall into three groups, normal individuals, prediabetic patients, and diabetic mellitus (DM) patients. Prediabetes (pre-DM) is an intermediate condition that exists between normal glucose levels and DM. Atrial fibrillation (AF), one of the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmias in medical practice, contributes to a considerable morbidity and mortality rate. In this review, we looked at the clinical symptoms, pathological alterations, molecular mechanisms, and associated risk factors of pre-DM, type 2 DM (T2DM), and AF. In clinical practice, pre-DM can increase the prevalence of AF. In the hyperglycemic state, oxidative stress, inflammation, and endoplasmic reticulum stress can cause alterations in atrial cell or cardiac fibroblast function through tumor necrosis factor-α/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB)/transforming growth factor-β, mitogen-activated protein kinase-matrix metalloproteinase-9 and PARP-1 is poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1. IκB kinase-α/NF-κB pathways, and further cause atria undergo structural, electrical, and neural remodeling which lead to the occurrence and persistence of AF. In addition, pre-DM and T2DM may worsen as a result of obesity, obstructive sleep apnea, and arterial hypertension. Furthermore, clinical researches have demonstrated that lifestyle interventions and/or pharmacotherapy in pre-DM patients can effectively delay the progresssion of pre-DM to T2DM. Individualized glycemic management and AF management should be provided to AF patients with pre-DM or DM.
Mental health symptoms and illness trajectory following COVID-19 hospitalization: A cohort study
Authors: Lomholt-Welch Harriet , Morrow Andrew J. , Sykes Robert , Saleh Merna , Zahra Baryab , MacIntosh Alasdair , Kamdar Anna , Bagot Catherine , Bayes Hannah K. , Blyth Kevin G. , Bulluck Heerajnarain , Carrick David , Church Colin , Corcoran David , Findlay Iain , Gibson Vivienne B. , Gillespie Lynsey , Grieve Douglas , Barrientos Pauline Hall , Ho Antonia , Lang Ninian N. , Lowe David J. , Lennie Vera , Macfarlane Peter W. , Mayne Kaitlin J. , Mark Patrick B. , McConnachie Alex , McGeoch Ross , Nordin Sabrina , Payne Alexander , Rankin Alastair J. , Robertson Keith , Ryan Nicola , Roditi Giles , Sattar Naveed , Stobo David , Allwood-Spiers Sarah , Touyz Rhian M. , Veldtman Gruschen , Weeden Sarah , Weir Robin , Watkins Stuart , Welsh Paul , Mangion Kenneth , Berry Colin
Published: November 2023

Background:

The multisystem associations between baseline mental health status and coronavirus disease-19 (COVID)-19 illness trajectory are uncertain.

Objectives:

This article will investigate the associations between baseline mental health status and disease trajectory following COVID-19 hospitalization, which may have implications for practice and future research.

Methods:

The Chief Scientist Office Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Imaging in severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) COVID-19 study is a prospective, observational, multicenter, longitudinal, secondary care cohort study that assessed the time-course of multi-organ injury in posthospital survivors of COVID-19. Patients were assessed in-hospital, at 28–60 days after discharge and in the longer term using electronic health record linkage.

Results:

One hundred and fifty-two patients (mean ± standard deviation [SD] age 54.3 ± 11.8 years, 43% female, 40% most socio-economically deprived quintile, 33% history of mental health history) were enrolled and had mental health serially assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) questionnaire. Fifty-three (35%) had PHQ-4 score of 6–12 consistent with moderate-severe symptoms of anxiety or depression and this was associated with diagnostic criteria for myocarditis (P = 0.0498). Moderate-severe symptoms of anxiety or depression were positively associated with higher perception of illness, lower health-related quality of life (HRQoL), and poorer physical function. The mean (SD) duration of follow-up after hospital discharge was 428 (86) days (range, 290–627 days). PHQ-4 score was not associated with clinical outcomes at follow-up.

Conclusions:

In patients who have been hospitalized with COVID-19, moderate-severe symptoms of anxiety or depression were associated with myocarditis, worse HRQoL, higher perception of illness, and lower levels of physical function.

Public Registration:

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier is NCT04403607.
Prevalence of alcohol dependence syndrome in the patients of acute pancreatitis: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Bajwa Manpreet Kaur , Chauhan Vinay S. , Nath Shubhranshu , Singh Kartikeya R. , Banyal Navdeep , Panjrattan Carol
Published: November 2023

Background:

Acute pancreatitis (AP) is the main reason for mortality and morbidity. Numerous studies have shown a link between chronic alcohol usage and AP. However, there are few studies on the percentage of patients developing AP as a result of dependent patterns of drinking and associated risk factors.

Aim:

This study aimed to study the prevalence and impact of risk factors of alcohol dependence syndrome with AP patients hospitalized in tertiary care facilities.

Materials and Methods:

This is a cross-sectional observational study. Sociodemographic and clinical data were taken from patients with AP after consent. Eighty-five patients with AP who met the inclusion criteria were involved after each participant had clinical evaluation using the modified Marshall score, the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test, and the Severity of Alcohol Dependence Questionnaire (SAD-Q). The outcomes were tabulated and analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software.

Results:

38.8% of patients with AP were found to have features of alcohol dependence syndrome. Higher values of mean corpuscular volume (MCV), serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamic pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), and uric acid were associated with a greater propensity to have AP. The severity of alcohol dependence syndrome and AP was not associated.

Conclusion:

AP is potentially a fatal disease. In this study, 38.8% of AP patients had alcohol dependence syndrome. There was no statistical association between the severity of AP and alcohol dependence syndrome, though high values of MCV, SGOT, SGPT, and GGT were at greater risk of developing AP. As a result, alcohol dependence syndrome should be examined in all individuals with AP.
Dyslexia: An invisible disability or different ability
Authors: Sunil Akhila B. , Banerjee Amitav , Divya Madamanchi , Rathod Hetal K. , Patel Jhanvi , Gupta Medhavi
Published: November 2023

Background:

With a global dyslexia prevalence of at least 10%, significant numbers of students with dyslexia go undiagnosed and their symptoms unaddressed, but with timely intervention, 90% of dyslexic children can be educated in regular inclusive classrooms.

Aim:

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of dyslexia among primary schoolchildren in government and private schools.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study on 128 primary schoolchildren attending selected government and private schools in Western Maharashtra was conducted and evaluated using the Search tool, which is a standardized study tool for screening dyslexia. Microsoft Excel and MedCalc version 3.1 were used for data entry and analysis. The prevalence of dyslexia was estimated, and differences between groups were evaluated using appropriate tests.

Results:

Of the total sample size of 128 children, findings showed 10.9% of students as dyslexic, 9.3% as vulnerable, and the remaining 79.8% as non-dyslexic. Of 14 dyslexic children, 10 were found to be from government schools and the remaining four were from private schools.

Conclusion:

The high prevalence of dyslexia even in a small study sample size is a matter of concern and emphasizes the need for extensive research and initiatives, including awareness campaigns among teachers, parents, and school authorities, and the importance of detection of undiagnosed dyslexic children as early as possible and providing them with appropriate interventions.
A study of disability before and after radiotherapy among head and neck cancer patients residing around atomic power plant
Authors: Shekhawat Bharat Singh , Sharma Neeraj , Dhaka Vikas , Yadav Sandhya , Vignesh K
Published: November 2023

Background:

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a profoundly distressing condition that can have significant psychological implications. It has the potential to impact various fundamental aspects of an individual's life, resulting in functional impairments and structural deformities depending on the location, size, and route of spread, therefore causing significant disability. Yet, this has not been adequately studied. People residing around areas around the atomic radiation power plant are exposed to radiation, and also, contamination of water sources, including the Chambal River, which is a major source of water needs of this area, may have a role in the pathogenesis and prognosis of cancer patients.

Aim:

This study aimed to study disability in patients with head and neck cancer before and after radiotherapy.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational study was conducted in association with the Department of Radiotherapy of a tertiary care hospital in Rajasthan. Fifty consecutive HNC patients aged 18 to 65 years fulfilling inclusion criteria, specifically laid down for the study, constituted the sample of the study. The World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule version 2.0 (WHODAS-2.0) was used.

Results:

The mean age of patients was 49.62 years. A statistically significant improvement after radiotherapy was found in disability scores in domains of cognition (2.39 vs. 1.88), self-care (2.39 vs. 1.78), and getting along with people domain (2.38 vs. 1.83).

Conclusion:

Disability improved significantly in patients after radiotherapy in the domains of self-care, getting along with people, and cognition.
Acceptance and commitment therapy as an add-on treatment for the management of patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Akhouri Deoshree , Hamza  , Kumar Shravan , Reyazuddin M.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is a chronic and long-lasting illness affecting approximately 2% of the population. Up to 40%–60% of patients with OCD do not have satisfactory outcomes, thereby leading to disability in performing daily routine activities. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) provides a substitute for old-fashioned psychotherapies, as it involves the client directly experiencing the problematic emotion, that is, anxiety and obsessions in the case of OCD.

Aim:

To observe the effect of ACT on patients with OCD and compare its effect on obsessive compulsive symptoms, thought control, thought and action fusion, acceptance and action, and depression.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 62 patients diagnosed with OCD as per Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) in the age range between 18 and 60 years, having duration of illness less than two years, both male and female, literate and illiterate, hailing from rural and urban background, were included in the study. For pre- and post-assessment Yale-Brown Obsessive and Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), acceptance and commitment questionnaire, thought control questionnaire, and thought and action fusion questionnaire were used in this study, and ACT was used for management of OCD.

Results:

There is a significant difference between the groups treated with ACT and those treated as usual, on every domain of thought control questionnaire (TCQ) -- distraction (t = 9.07), social control (t = 11.13), worry (t = 11.93), punishment (t = 16.78), and re-appraisal (t = 16.47). Significance is also seen in the thought and action fusion in the moral domain (t = 16.22), the likelihood domain (t = 16.49), and others (t = 9.23). On Y-BOCS, HDRS, and acceptance and action questionnaire (AAQ) both groups show a significant difference between each other.

Conclusion:

The findings of the present study indicate that ACT is a productive method for patients with OCD as it encourages the patient to accept and integrate their lived experiences, challenges effective responses, and recognizes and eliminates the controlling dimensions.
Prosocial behavior, psychological well-being, positive and negative affect among young adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kakulte Arvind , Shaikh Samreen
Published: November 2023

Background:

Prosocial behaviors are considered important moral and social behavior. Various researchers have found that prosocial behavior increases well-being; research is scarce on the effects of prosocial behavior on psychological well-being, positive and negative affect among adults.

Aim:

The present study investigated the relationship between prosocial behavior, psychological well-being, and positive and negative affect on adults.

Materials and Methods:

The study included 80 adults (19–25 years) males and females. Snowball and incidental sampling method is used for data collection. The tools used for the study are the Prosocial Personality Battery, Ryff's psychological well-being scale, and the positive and negative affect scale.

Results:

A positive correlation was found between prosocial behavior and psychological well-being (0.396 which is significant at 0.01 level). A positive correlation was also observed between prosocial behavior and positive affect (0.274 which is significant at 0.01 level). A negative correlation was found between prosocial behavior and negative affect (−0.191 which is significant at 0.05 level).

Conclusion:

People involved in Prosocial behavior showed a positive correlation with Psychological well-being and positive affect and a negative correlation with negative affects.
Impact of psychiatric comorbidity on quality of life and activities of daily living among patients suffering from chronic kidney disease undergoing hemodialysis
Authors: Goyal Ekram , Puria Alka , Chaudhary Suprakash , Kumar Ajay , Raj Richa , Kumar Sidhartha
Published: November 2023

Introduction:

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a debilitating illness that impairs an individual's physical and social functioning and ultimately affects the quality of life (QOL).

Aim:

To determine the impact of psychiatric comorbidity on QOL and activities of daily living in individuals suffering from CKD undergoing hemodialysis.

Materials and Methods:

Fifty subjects suffering from CKD undergoing hemodialysis were consequently enrolled in the department of medicine. Institutional ethics committee permission was obtained before the start of the study. The interview was conducted only after the hemodialysis procedure. Consent was obtained and socio-demographic details were noted in the socio-demographic proforma. Schedule for Clinical Assessment in Neuropsychiatry (SCAN) was used to assess psychiatric comorbidity. QOL was assessed on Short Form-36 (SF-36). Katz Index of Independence of Activities of Daily Living scale (KADL) was used to assess the activities of living of such individuals.

Results:

46% (n = 23) of subjects suffering from CKD had psychiatric co-morbidity. The most common psychiatric disorder observed was moderate depressive disorder (14%, n = 7) followed by adjustment disorder (12%, n = 6). QOL on SF-36 in all eight domains was low compared to the general population. There was a high statistically significant negative impact of psychiatric comorbidity on QOL on eight domains of SF-36 and activities of daily living. (P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Psychiatric co-morbidity is common in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Quality of life is lower compared to the general population. There is a negative impact of psychiatric co-morbidity on quality of life and activities of daily living.
Study of knowledge, attitude, and perception toward LGBTQ people amongst medical students
Authors: Sorathiya Reeva , Bharati Anup , Patil Ayushree , Gorade Sharad
Published: November 2023

Background:

People across cultures have had negative stereotypes, prejudice, and discriminatory attitudes toward the LGBTQ community for many years. Unfortunately, this perception exists within the medical fraternity as well, which in turn has a negative impact on the provision of healthcare facilities to individuals. Change in awareness and perception of LGBTQ among medical undergraduate students may remedy the situation.

Aim:

To find out the knowledge, attitude, and perception of medical graduates toward the LGBTQ community.

Materials and Methods:

The study is a cross-sectional observation study and was designed as an online survey using stratified random sampling incorporating the questions from California State University, Northridge (CSUN) questionnaire, Acceptance of Homosexuals (AHO), Homosexuality Attitude Scale (HAS), and relevant sociodemographic details. The data were collected using Google Forms for 3 months.

Result:

A total of 300 medical undergraduate students were included in the study. Around 87.6% (n = 263) of participants are comfortable having a friend with a homosexual orientation in their circle and 63% (n = 189) disagree that the acceptance of LGBTQ people has anything to do with the morality of our society.

Conclusion:

Although the overall knowledge and attitude of medical graduates toward LGBTQ is positive, a considerable percentage of students have negative attitudes. Despite the overwhelmingly accepting attitudes and perceptions, some individuals are slightly reluctant to interact comfortably with LGBTQ people. Medical students need to be trained to maintain a non-homophobic attitude.
Depression among rheumatoid arthritis patients and barriers to seeking professional help: An observational study
Authors: Panjrattan Carol , Chauhan VS , Nath Shubhranshu , Singh Kartikeya R. , Banyal Navdeep , Bajwa Manpreet K.
Published: November 2023

Background:

A few studies have reported the association of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with emotional changes including anxiety and depression. There is a paucity of Indian studies in this area.

Aim:

To assess depression and its correlates in diagnosed cases of RA.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional and hospital-based study. A total of 70 patients with RA fulfilled the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Their demographic characteristics were recorded. They were individually assessed with the Clinical Disease Activity Index, Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Barriers to Access Care Evaluation, and Beck Depression Inventory. Statistical analysis was undertaken with SPSS.

Results:

In the patients with RA the prevalence of depression was 44.2%. Analysis revealed that there was a significant positive correlation between depression with the severity of RA. Barriers to help-seeking were mainly attitudinal rather than stigma-related or instrumental barriers.

Conclusion:

In the RA patients, the prevalence of depression was 44.2%. Clinical disease activity and the pain index were higher in patients with depression.
Community's perception of lockdown ascribed to the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nagar Akash , Chaklader Biswajit , Ray Suman , Rathod Hetal , Srivastava Kajal , Banerjee Amitav
Published: November 2023

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic caused a mandatory nationwide lockdown from March 24, 2020. In this difficult and unprecedented time, the requirement to adapt to lockdown and a forced stay-at-home had an impact on people's lives.

Aim:

Community's perception of lockdown ascribed to COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done on individuals aged 18 and above across India, to assess their perception regarding lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The study was carried out using a semi-structured questionnaire, where the data were collected via Google Forms and analyzed via Epi info 7. The questionnaire comprised of how individuals perceived the lockdown, and how COVID-19 news circulating on various social media platforms and news channels affected their mental health.

Results:

The study included a total of 552 individuals. The study found that the lockdown was supported by 47% of respondents. 69.9% participants acknowledged that during lockdown, a huge amount of COVID-19 news was being disseminated, while 67.2% of individuals were overly preoccupied with thinking about preventative measures. As a result of being confined indoors, 59% of respondents thought their screen time had increased.

Conclusion:

Respondents perceived that the lockdown had its benefits and drawbacks. They were impacted by the flood of information from various social media platforms as well and there was an increase in screen time.
Quality of online media reports of suicide and attempted suicide in India
Authors: Shamla Fatima , Ali Tahoora , Chaudhari Bhushan , Chaudhury Suprakash , Saldanha Daniel
Published: November 2023

Background:

News media reporting of suicide may influence the masses toward or against suicidal behavior. So, responsible reporting by news media is important to protect vulnerable people from the deleterious effects of media reporting. World Health Organization has issued guidelines for media reporting of suicide in this regard. We planned this research to evaluate the quality of online news media reports of suicide and attempted suicides in India.

Material and Methods:

We assessed a total of 210 news reports about suicide and attempted suicides (70 English, 70 Malayalam, and 70 Hindi) to evaluate the reporting of harmful and protective characteristics in news according to the World Health Organization guidelines for reporting suicide in media.

Results:

We found all three language media reported almost all potentially harmful characteristics with gender (100%), location/site of suicide in the headline (97.61%), precipitating life events (95.24%), mentioning term ‘Suicide’ in the headline (98.10%), monocausal explanation for suicidality (90.95%), suicide method in the headline (90.95%), an accompanying photo (92.38%), and suicide method (93.81%) being reported with highest frequency. Potentially protective characteristics were not included in most news reports with poor focus on awareness information. Vernacular language media were poor as compared to English news media about the quality of reporting suicide.

Conclusion:

We found poor adherence to reporting guidelines by online news media for reporting of suicide with poor coverage of educative and awareness information for the general public. It underlines the need for improving awareness among media professionals about responsible reporting of suicide.
Assessment of supernatural attitude toward mental health among tribal and non-tribal populations
Authors: Ali Tahoora , Deshmukh Shilpa , Kumar Santosh , Chaudhury Suprakash , Verma Pankaj Kumar , Kelkar Parisha
Published: November 2023

Background:

In India, only about 10% of persons with psychiatric illnesses receive evidence-based treatments. Stigma, mistrust in allopathic medicine, allegiance toward faith healers, cultural and traditional practices, and beliefs are some of the major hindrances to the treatment of mentally ill patients.

Aim:

To assess supernatural attitudes toward mental health among tribal and non-tribal populations.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 subjects were included in the study after informed consent, 50 of whom were tribal and 50 non-tribal. All were required to fill a self-constructed proforma, the Supernatural Attitude Questionnaire (SAQ), and the Attitudes Toward Seeking Professional Psychological Help Scale-Short Form (ATSPPH-SF). The scales were scored, compiled, and statistically analyzed.

Results:

The tribal and non-tribal subjects were well-matched on socio-demographic variables. The score of SAQ was significantly higher in the tribal group as compared to the non-tribal group. On the ATSPPH-SF, the scores of the two groups were not significant.

Conclusion:

Even though the tribal populations of India hold a higher supernatural attitude toward mental illnesses as compared to the non-tribal populations, their treatment-seeking attitude remains unaffected.
A case series of substance abuse among urban slum population during the COVID 19 pandemic
Authors: Nallapu Sandeep , Borah Nirankush , Gangurde Shweta , Ghonge Swati
Published: November 2023

The COVID 19 pandemic stuck the world already burdened with numerous diseases. The approach toward controlling the pandemic disturbed the healthcare delivery system and also aggravated the already existing problems of malnutrition, unemployment, economic inequalities, decreased routine immunization services, and substance abuse. Six individuals with multiple substance use histories were identified and in depth interviews were conducted in an urban slum under the field practice area of a medical college. Common features were identified and reported. The age of initiation of alcohol and tobacco use was found to be in the early adolescence period (10–14 years). Chronic substance abuse causes poor health, an economic burden on families, and domestic violence. Lack of self esteem due to unemployment, decreased social interaction, and multiple failed attempts at abstinence were the shared features among dependents. Measures employed during the COVID 19 pandemic to contain the virus have caused unanticipated adverse effects on health, finance, and social life. A holistic approach would play a pivotal role rather than reactionary and momentary interventions.
Psychiatric presentation in undiagnosed intracranial space-occupying lesions: A case series
Authors: Rure Daisy , Kaithwas Nisha , Kushwah Suneel S. , Mishra Nimisha , Mishra Dheerendra , Shakya Makhan
Published: November 2023

Intracranial space-occupying lesions (SOLs) account for about 5–10 deaths per 100,000 in India. They present with physical symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, and weakness; neurological symptoms such as seizures, and focal neurological deficit; and behavioral changes manifesting as depression (15–20%), anxiety (30–50%), psychosis (<5%), and personality changes (16–76%). Therefore, it is necessary to do an appropriate general, neurological, and behavioral examination for proper diagnosis and management. A series of four cases who reported to psychiatric outpatient with behavioural complaints and no focal neurological deficits were reported. The most common presentation of SOLs is seizure, headache, vomiting, and loss of consciousness. Along with this complaint, some patients may present with abnormal behavior. However, it is very rare for a SOL to present solely with psychiatric or behavioral complaints. Therefore, it becomes imperative to keep a close watch on the symptoms and send for timely investigations.
“Insert flipping technique:” An effective way of restoring segmental lordosis and disc height with tall bullet cages
Authors: Kulkarni Arvind G. , Kumar Priyambada , Chadalavada Aditya R. S. S. , Adbalwad Yogesh
Published: November 2023

Study Design:

The study design was a retrospective study.

Objective:

The objectives of the present study are dual; to describe a simple and effective way of restoring intervertebral disc (IVD) height by the “Insert Flip Technique” of cage insertion and to demonstrate effective restoration of IVD height and segmental lordosis (SL) and their influence on the functional outcome postoperatively.

Methods:

IVD height and SL were recorded pre- and postoperatively. Each motion segment was instrumented with pedicle screws to allow segmental stabilization. Patients were called for follow-up at 6 weeks, 3 months, and 1 year postoperatively and were assessed clinically for back pain and leg pain (VAS and Oswestry Disability Index scores recorded).

The bullet cages are designed such that they are lordotic in the superior-inferior plane and neutral in the mediolateral plane. Usually, the cage is inserted with superior and inferior surfaces of the cage impacting against superior and inferior end plates of the adjacent vertebral body. However, with the proposed technique, the cages were inserted such that the narrower mediolateral surfaces of the cage engaged with superior and inferior vertebral end plates. The cage was then flipped within the disc space such that the superior-inferior surfaces of the bullet cage impacted against the superior and inferior end plates of the vertebral body to create desired lordosis.

Results:

There was a significant improvement seen in the postoperative Cobb’s angle and disc height after placement of a tall bullet cage compared to the preoperative Cobb’s angle and disc height.

Conclusion:

This modification of technique helped in gaining lordosis with taller bullet cages in minimally invasive surgery transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion with no/minimal complication and also reduced the need for bone resection during insertion of the cage.
Lesions of the spinal cord caused by multiple myeloma: A systematic review and meta-analysis regarding the neurosurgical aspects of patient management
Authors: Encarnacion Daniel , Chmutin Gennady E , Bozkurt Ismail , Wellington Jack , Geraldino Emmanuel Batista , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: November 2023

Background:

Multiple Myeloma is a B-cell malignancy which can cause variety of lesions of the spine and spinal cord. The management of patients with spinal cord compression (SCC), and the efficacy and security of minimally invasive therapeutic approaches, are the main topics of discussion.

Methods:

To systematically review the scientific literature on neurosurgical aspects of MM spinal cord lesion management, a search was conducted among scientific papers in the databases ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, and PubMed using keywords and Boolean operators. These comprise MM and lesions of the spine and spinal cord. Each database was searched from the earliest available article to January 2017.

Results:

According to the literature, low-dose radiotherapy, antimyeloma medications, and bisphosphonates comprise the mainstay management for symptomatic spinal lesions. The decision to operation is based on presence of myelopathy and degree of spinal cord compression.

Conclusions:

As a result of the analysis, the following conclusions may be drawn: (1) surgery is a valuable option for MM patients with symptomatic spinal involvement who experience rapid neurological deterioration with SCC and/or mechanical instability and (2) it is important to ensure that the benefits of surgical treatment outweigh the risks, as patients with MM are susceptible to infections.