bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radha Gobinda Kar: The visionary trailblazer bridging traditions and modernity in Indian medicine
Authors: Chakraborty Debajyoti , Baishya Nilakshi , Patil Giramalla , Yadav Pramod
Published: December 2024

Radha Gobinda Kar is a prominent figure in Indian medical history, renowned for his vision and dedication towards establishing an Indian-led medical institution during British colonial rule. Born in 1852 in Betore, West Bengal, Kar’s early life was deeply influenced by his father, Durga Das Kar, a physician who emphasized the importance of education in Bengali language. This influence shaped Kar’s future contributions to Indian medical education. Despite his initial passion for theatre, Kar pursued medicine, graduating from Calcutta Medical College in 1880. His academic brilliance led him to Scotland, where he earned Honors in Medical Science from the University of Edinburgh. However, despite the allure of a prosperous career in England, Kar returned to India, driven by a sense of duty to his homeland. Kar’s most significant legacy is the RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, established in 1886, which remains one of India’s premier medical institutions. His vision for this institution was rooted in the belief that India needed its own medical school to serve its people’s needs rather than the colonial administration. This vision led him to endure numerous hardships, including begging and selling his belongings to fund the institution’s establishment. His efforts culminated in creating a medical college that integrated Western and traditional Indian medical practices, reflecting his belief in a holistic approach to healthcare. His life inspires the generations, reminding the power of dedication and visionary thinking in transforming the society.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) for global health and advancing traditional medicine: Report of the proceedings
Authors: Nesari Tanuja Manoj , Kuruvilla Shyama , McDougall Lori , Pujari Sameer , Kajiwara Maki , Saluja Manjeet , Singh Rajeshwari , Arshath Jyothi P. S. , Anagha M. S. , Karthik K. P. , Shetty Shifa P.
Published: December 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has significantly transformed healthcare. The Global Technical Meeting on AI for Global Health and Advancing Traditional Medicine (TM) hosted by the World Health Organization, International Telecommunication, and World Intellectual Property (IP) Organization, was held at the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), New Delhi. The event addressed AI’s potential in enhancing diagnostics, research, and knowledge preservation within TM, with specific attention to regulatory and ethical considerations. Objectives included sharing insights on AI applications in TM, fostering collaborative education, and developing skills for practitioners to harness AI effectively. Structured around four key themes, the meeting covered digital health initiatives, IP in TM, a training framework for stakeholders, and the creation of a TM Global Library. Through expert panels, group discussions, and collaborative sessions, participants discussed integrating AI into TM, IP protection strategies, and building a global digital TM repository. The outcomes shall aim to guide AI-enabled innovation in TM, forming a basis for robust global policies, ethical standards, and tailored AI ecosystems in TM.
Perception, attitude, and differences of opinion of Ayurveda students and teachers about virtual classes: A cross-sectional survey
Authors: Binorkar Sandeep V. , Bhat Shobha K. , Sawant Ranjeet S. , Gandhi Piyush K. , Ukey Rashtrapal N.
Published: December 2024

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought about a rapid transition in education, with many institutions adopting virtual classes as the primary mode of instruction. This study aims to investigate the perception, attitude, and differences of opinion regarding virtual classes among Ayurveda students and teachers, shedding light on their experiences in adapting to this new educational paradigm.

Methodology:

This was a cross-sectional survey among Ayurveda students and teachers from various institutions across the country. A structured questionnaire comprising both closed and open-ended questions was designed. A convenience sampling method was utilized to recruit the participants from multiple Ayurvedic institutions. Questions were categorized into sections focusing on perceptions of efficacy, challenges, advantages, and suggestions for the improvement of virtual learning. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics and inferential tests such as Chi-square for the analysis of qualitative responses. Data was analyzed using the statistical software SPSS (IBM Corp. Released 2015. IBM SPSS Statistics for Windows, Version 23.0. Armonk, NY: IBM Corp) and Microsoft Excel.

Results:

The survey included responses from 290 Ayurveda students and 98 teachers. The survey revealed notable findings among Ayurveda students and teachers. Many participants expressed initial skepticism about virtual classes but gradually adapted to the new format. 40.82% of students and 38.62% of teachers appreciated the flexibility and convenience of virtual classes, while teachers noted challenges in maintaining student engagement. The study also shows that overall 55.52% of students and 56.13% of teachers did not agree to continue the virtual education.

Conclusion:

Ayurveda students generally embraced the flexibility offered by online learning, and teachers faced challenges in sustaining student engagement. Addressing these differences in perception and bridging technological gaps is crucial for the continued success of virtual education in Ayurveda. Understanding these variations in perception and attitudes can guide in the development of effective blended learning strategies in Ayurveda education, catering to the needs and concerns of both students and teachers.
Atreya virachita sarasamgraha and its contribution to Ayurveda – A critical analysis of an unpublished manuscript
Authors: Vadhel Manisha V. , Vyas Hitesh A. , Raval Suhag D.
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Enormous literature on healthcare is available in ancient texts of Indian civilization, however, much of it is still limited to the libraries in the form of unpublished manuscripts. “Atreya virachita sarasamgraha” is an available manuscript on Ayurveda in Sanskrit language and Devanagari script, but is unpublished.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 27 manuscripts were collected from different libraries across the country, out of which eight manuscripts were included in the study following the inclusion criteria. Manuscripts were studied with the method of lower and higher criticism.

Observations:

There are differences in the number of folios and verses in these manuscripts. The predominant poetic meter used in the verses is the Anusthupa chhanda. Almost all the subjects of Ayurveda such as Nadi pariksha (~pulse diagnosis), Mutra pariksha (~urine examination), Ritucharya (~seasonal regimen), Annapana guna (~classification and attribute of food and beverages), Roga ganana (~enlisting diseases), and Vayoyojana (~information about patient examinations including age) have been described in this work. According to a verse found in the manuscript, the author has summarized the essence of other treatises of Ayurveda in this work. These concepts are distinct from the Brihattrayi, indicating unique insights and contributions within the manuscript. The critical analysis on the manuscripts deals with the preliminary information as well as description of the themes of some of the initial chapters.

Conclusion:

Many of the verses of Atreya virachita sarasamgraha are analogs to the Harita samhita and other Ayurveda texts, but a distinctive aspect lies in the lingering content, suggesting the unique contribution by the author.
Pterygium extended removal followed by minor ipsilateral simple limbal epithelial transplantation (PERMISLET): An innovative technique for recurrent pterygium
Authors: Sati Alok , Mishra Sanjay Kumar , Shukla Sarvadarshi , Unni Deepesh , Kumar Sonali V. , Dhar Sanjay Kumar , Kaushik Jaya , Sharma Vijay Kumar , Pannu Anju
Published: December 2024

We describe a novel technique for recurrent pterygium and assess the advantage of properties of extended tenonectomy, amniotic membrane transplantation, and limbal epithelial transplantation in terms of recurrence rate, postoperative symptoms, postoperative orthoptics, and other complications. A total of nine eyes with recurrent pterygium underwent PERMISLET, i.e., pterygium extended removal (PER) (removal of tenon capsule with fibrovascular tissue around medial rectus from limbus till medial canthus) followed by minor ipsilateral limbal epithelial transplantation (coverage of bare sclera with amniotic membrane graft and placement of ipsilateral limbal pieces at the affected limbus). The patients were reviewed on day 1, day 7, and day 30 and at third, sixth, and twelfth month after surgery, and none of the eyes (0/9) showed recurrence of pterygium on to the cornea. Time taken for surgery was 53.88 ± 8.74 minutes (range, 45 to 75 minutes). Postoperative discomfort (pain, irritation, foreign body sensation, and lacrimation) persisted mainly for day 1 after the surgery. However, lacrimation persisted till day 7 in two of the patients. Intraoperative complications were seen in none of the eyes. A total of 1/9 patients had granuloma formation, and 1/9 had dellen formation in postoperative period with successful management. Moreover, none of the eyes (0/9) developed ocular motility restrictions in postoperative period. PERMISLET, an innovative surgical technique for recurrent pterygium, is a viable option with zero rate of recurrence and minimal complications, a boon for patients with limited healthy conjunctiva or a potential for future glaucoma drainage procedures.
Ectopic Bronchial Arteries – Incidental Findings on Multi-detector Computed Tomography
Authors: Babu C. S. Ramesh , Sharma Vinay , Gupta Om Prakash
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Orthotopic bronchial arteries (BAs) arise from the descending aorta between T5 and T6 vertebral levels and those emanating from the aortic arch, distal descending aorta, and subclavian arteries are called ectopic and are present in about one-third of cases.

Study Design:

Rare and unreported origin of ectopic BAs incidentally detected while analyzing 710 multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT) scans are presented.

Observations:

Ectopic BAs of subclavian origin supplying ipsilateral lungs are seen in two cases. Ectopic common bronchial trunk arising from the left subclavian and dividing into right and left branches was observed in two cases. Bilateral subclavian origin of both BAs is a rare presentation. Till now, an unreported variant is the common trunk of the left bronchial and left vertebral (bronchovertebral trunk) arising from the left subclavian close to its root from the aortic arch. Another rare variant of right bronchial arising from the left subclavian (Contralateral origin) is also noted.

Discussion and Conclusion:

The number of BAs varies. At least one ectopic BA is present in 36% of cases and in nearly half of these cases, ectopic arteries are the only supply. BAs are embolized to control severe hemoptysis and are used for infusion chemotherapy for lung neoplasms. A prerequisite for successful interventional and surgical procedures on BA is precise anatomical knowledge and preprocedural MDCT can provide accurate anatomical information to prevent complications following BA embolization to control hemoptysis.
Evaluation of Dural Venous Sinus Variations through Three-dimensional Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Venography
Authors: Özkoç Songül Erdem , Çetinçakmak Mehmet Guli , Hattapoğlu Salih
Published: December 2024

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomy of dural venous sinus variations through three-dimensional phase-contrast (3D-PC) magnetic resonance venography (MRV). Awareness of the normal anatomical variations of venous sinuses and apparent MRV flow gaps prevent misdiagnosis of dural venous sinus diseases.

Materials and Methods:

The dural venous sinuses were assessed using nonenhanced 3D PC-MRV. Of these 968 patients, 154 were excluded due to venous thrombosis and mass invasion. A total of 814 patients (186 male and 628 female) were included in the study.

Results:

The most common variation of superior sagittal sinus (SSS) was atresia of anterior one-third SSS 19 (2.3%). Other variations were hypoplasia of the anterior half of SSS 2 (0.2%), atresia of posterior one-third of SSS (7, 0.9%), and combined variation of SSS (13, 1.6%). The left transverse sinus was hypoplastic in 224 (27.5%) and aplastic/atretic in 259 (31.8%) cases. The right transverse sinus was hypoplastic in 76 (9.3%) and aplastic/atretic in 57 (7.0%) patients. The combined variation of bilateral transverse sinuses had 42 (5.2%) cases. The left sigmoid sinus was hypoplastic in 22.2% (181) of cases. The right sigmoid sinus was hypoplastic in 60 (7.4%). Two patients had hypoplastic bilateral sigmoid sinuses (0.2%). The right occipital sinus was identified in 20 (2.5%) patients. Left occipital sinus was noted in 2 (0.2%) patients. Duplication or triplication of the occipital sinus is noted in 5 (0.6%) study populations. Straight sinus continued in 13 (1.6%) cases with the right transverse sinus and in 29 (3.6%) patients with left transverse sinus.

Conclusion:

These anatomical variants can be a potential pitfall in the MRV diagnosis of dural sinus variations, especially when there are no supportive imaging features such as brain infarcts or appropriate clinical background. 3D PC-MRV is a great option for patients with gadolinium allergy/renal insufficiency/pregnant patients. We hope this article can add information and assist in preoperative venous analysis for neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists.
Using the mind map method in medical education, its advantages and challenges: A systematic review
Authors: Sajadi Atiyeh Sadat , Babajani Alireza , Maroufi Shahnam Sedigh , Sarraf Nazanin
Published: December 2024

Mind mapping stands as a contemporary approach to education, introducing an innovative means of teaching and learning. In current times, this technique is embraced due to its ability to enhance the learning and retention process. This investigation explored the imperative nature of adopting novel educational methodologies such as mind mapping, while also examining its benefits and constraints. During the timeframe spanning from 2000 to 2023, the terms “mind map,” “medical education,” and “thinking skills” were employed as keywords to conduct searches across nine databases: PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Sciences, Science Direct, ProQuest, CNHL, Springer, Wiley, and Google Scholar. After conducting searches across the aforementioned databases, a total of 63 articles were retrieved. Following the elimination of duplicated entries and articles that did not align with the predefined inclusion criteria, the examination focused on 10 relevant articles. This analysis adhered to the guidelines outlined by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) protocol, available at www.prisma-statement.org. The examination revealed a multitude of notable advantages associated with the implementation of mind maps which are classified into three groups (Enhancing Memory and Comprehension, Fostering Intellectual Growth, Streamlining Learning and Teaching). Additionally, two challenges of the studies were mentioned. Considering the positive ratio of merits to challenges, it is anticipated that this educational methodology will be increasingly incorporated into medical education, owing to its paramount importance and potential.
Barriers and facilitators of community-based nursing development: A scoping review
Authors: Seyedfatemi Naiemeh , Peyrovi Hamid , Goharinezhad Salime , Oghli Saeid Hossein
Published: December 2024

In the last few decades, chronic diseases have spread and new and emerging health and social issues have affected people’s health. COVID-19 and other emerging and re-emerging diseases are creating new challenges for societies that affect how healthcare is managed. It is through the development of community-based nursing that some of these problems can be solved. This study was conducted to identify barriers and facilitators of community-based nursing development. To determine the type, extent, and nature of research conducted on barriers and facilitators of CBN, a scoping review was conducted, and five databases (ProQuest, PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Web of Science) were systematically searched during the years 2000–2023. Relevant articles were extracted according to the inclusion criteria (studies related to community-based nursing dimensions published in English). The articles were reviewed in terms of title, summary, and relevant content, and finally, 22 articles remained. Then, 22 articles were analyzed by the thematic analysis method. Education, promoting cultural sensitivities, planning and reforming health policies, increasing public awareness for community-based nursing, providing more care experiences and opportunities, and improving community-based nursing service delivery approache. The obstacles to the development of community-oriented nursing in four categories included weak organizational power, job burnout, false beliefs and expectations, and the negative influence of the media. Based on the results of this review, reforming existing policies with an emphasis on culture building, education, and public awareness, and, the other hand, trying to remove obstacles with the help of the media and correcting public beliefs are among the important measures that can be taken in the field of community-oriented nursing development.
Disaster health literacy for diabetics: A scoping review towards a framework
Authors: Panahi Somayeh , Atighechian Golrokh , Heidarpour Maryam , Heidari Zahra , Ashrafi-rizi Hasan
Published: December 2024

Due to the increasing occurrence of natural disasters, it is essential to prioritize the improvement of health literacy during emergencies, particularly for individuals with chronic illnesses like diabetes who are especially vulnerable in the medical sector. The primary objective of this study was to identify the key themes within an emerging framework for disaster health literacy specifically tailored for diabetics. A scoping review design was selected based on the Arksey and O’Malley framework. The published articles indexed in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were retrieved up to April 2023, applying related keywords. There restrictions were placed in the English language and the study design. Textual analysis method to identify themes in the articles. The research team conducted multiple collaborative sessions to identify the themes related to health literacy during disasters based on a comprehensive review of existing literature. Three challenges were identified during the analysis process. These challenges include the difficulties encountered by diabetic patients in the early stages of disasters, the physical side effects they experience, and the major recommendations for preparedness and initial response. Subsequently, a framework was developed based on the extracted main challenges and the established logical connections between the conceptual codes, achieved through consensus among the research team. The study emphasized the importance of integrating health literacy assessment and training initiatives throughout all stages of the disaster cycle, with a specific emphasis on individuals with diabetes. By implementing such programs, it is anticipated that the overall health literacy of diabetic patients during disasters can be enhanced.
Anemia prevention measures in female students in the Islamic Boarding School of Al-Junaidiyah Biru, Indonesia
Authors: Hamid Nur Shadiqah , Ansariadi  , Amiruddin Ridwan , Noor Nur N. , Birawida Agus B. , Stang
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Anemia in adolescent girls in particular will have a more serious impact, given that they are future mothers. Therefore, the purpose of preventive measure is to reduce the risk of maternal mortality, stunting, wasting, and low birth weight. This study aimed to determine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, sources of information, perceived susceptibility, and perceived benefits in relation to anemia prevention measures.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:

This study was carried out using an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design. There were a total of 235 female students, and 149 samples of female students at the Islamic Boarding School of Al-Junaidiyah Biru were selected through stratified random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression. Furthermore, the analysis was performed using the STATA program version 14.0.

RESULTS:

The number of female students who had poor preventive measures was 61.74%. Multivariate analysis showed that knowledge [P = 0.001; odds ratio (OR) 4.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.90–10.99] and attitude (P = 0.000; OR 12.30; 95% CI: 5.24–28.86) were the most influential factors.

CONCLUSIONS:

The lack of information about iron-source foods, iron enhancers, iron inhibitors, and the recommendation to take blood supplement tablets for female students living in boarding schools will make them have insufficient knowledge in anemia prevention measures. The lack of information sources regarding anemia prevention is a health problem for female students living in boarding schools.
Nurses’ viewpoint of sustaining work despite musculoskeletal pain: A qualitative study
Authors: Sepehrian Razieh , Hashjin Asgar Aghaei , Farahmandnia Hojjat
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

The nursing profession consistently has the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among occupations due to physical and psychological pressures, leading to an increased number of sickness absences, early retirement, staff shortage, poor health conditions, and need for medical care. Absence among healthcare workers puts the quality of patient care at risk, and increase colleagues’ workload and employer staffing expenses. This study aimed to investigate the viewpoints of Iranian nurses about sustaining work despite musculoskeletal pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was performed as qualitative research. Data were gathered using purposive sampling through in-depth one-to-one interviews with 21 nurses. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and imported into the computer software MAXQDA 2020. Graneheim and Lundman’s conventional content analysis was performed to analyze the data, and Lincoln and Guba’s recommendations were used to control the trustworthiness of the data.

RESULTS:

A total of 4 main categories and 15 subcategories emerged after several rounds of analyzing and summarizing the data and considering the similarities and differences. These main categories included education, workplace adjustments, supportive culture, and regulations and legislations.

CONCLUSION:

Considering the attitudes of nurses with MSDs on continuing work is important for developing and implementing interventions to facilitate the work for this vulnerable working profession and to promote compliance with these measures. Quantitative studies on the effectiveness of the proposed strategies are required for more scientific evidence.
Surgical site infection following incisional negative pressure wound therapy in lower limb amputation closure: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meena Satya Prakash , Shetty Spoorthi D. , Badkur Mayank , Lodha Mahendra , Rodha Mahaveer Singh , Chaudhary Ramkaran , Sharma Naveen
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Major amputations are a standard procedure being done for various etiologies of the lower limb. Surgical site infections often complicate the postoperative outcome of patients. Negative pressure wound therapy has evolved to have a preventive role in SSI. According to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that compared the wound and overall outcomes of incisional application of NPWT against standard dressing in patients undergoing stump closure following major lower limb amputations. The primary goal was to compare the rate of surgical site infections. The secondary objectives were to compare the postoperative hospital stay, reinterventions, readmission, and mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a healthcare institute and included 62 patients who underwent closure of major lower limb amputation stumps. After stump closure, patients were randomized into iNPWT and standard groups for the dressing over the suture line. Surgical site infection and other outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS:

A statistically significant difference was found in the rate of surgical site infection (16% vs 51%, P = 0.003). Also, it appreciated a significant reduction in the number of patients needing reinterventions (26% vs 52%, P = 0.037) and the duration of postoperative hospital stay (5.8 days vs 8.2 days, P = 0.043) in the iNPWT group.

CONCLUSION:

Incisional application of NPWT following lower limb amputations is an effective tool to reduce surgical site infections, the need of multiple reinterventions, the cost of treatment, and hospital stay. We should use this special dressing as a standard protocol for the high-risk patients undergoing stump closure following major amputations; therefore, it can reduce the morbidity of patients.
Academic stress, perceived parental pressure, and anxiety related to competitive entrance examinations and the general well-being among adolescents – A cross-sectional survey from Karnataka, India
Authors: Pienyu Khriebeizonuo , Margaret Binu , D’Souza Anjalin
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

In this competitive world, students undergo various scholastic stress and mental health issues. The scholastic stress has a great impact on students’ life and results in the prevalence of several psychological consequences such as stress-related disorders, anxiety, depression, and nervousness, which disturb their academic performances. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess academic stress, perceived parental pressure, and anxiety related to competitive entrance examinations and the general well-being among adolescents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023 among 570 adolescents who were planning to give competitive entrance examination in Pre-University Colleges of Udupi District, Karnataka, India. The data were collected using Background Proforma, Academic Stress Scale related to Competitive Examination, Perceived Parental Academic Pressure Scale, Westside Test Anxiety Scale, and General Well-being Scale. The purposive sampling technique was used to select Pre-University Colleges, and the adolescents were selected using cluster sampling. The collected data were analysed by Jamovi 2.3.21 software using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the majority of adolescents, 490 (86.0%), have high academic stress, 496 (87.0%) experienced high perceived parental pressure, 163 (28.5%) had moderately high anxiety, and 351 (57.7%) have low general well-being. There was no significance difference between class of study and stream of study.

CONCLUSION:

The study concluded that it is essential for the health care professionals to collaborate with parents and teachers to support adolescents and give them a congenial environment that will promote the healthy physical and psychological well-being of the adolescents.
Perspectives of medical students on the implementation of sub-internship rotation in year 5 surgical clerkship: A brief report from a private medical college in Pakistan
Authors: Sultan Amber , Siddiqui Nadeem A. , Anees Muhammad , Khan Sadaf , Biyabani Raziuddin , Nazim Mohammad
Published: December 2024

This study aims to explore the perspectives of medical students on the newly introduced Surgical Sub-internship (SI) rotation in year 5 Surgical Clerkship. This cross-sectional study was conducted at The Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi, Pakistan from September 2022 to September 2023. A self-designed 5-point Likert scale-based evaluation form was created to explore students’ perspectives regarding their one-week Surgical SI rotation. We included students from the class of 2022 and 2023 who completed the surgical SI rotation. A total of 121 medical students from the class of 2022 (n=73,60%) and 2023 (n=48, 40%) participated in the study with a female-to-male ratio of 53 (44%):68 (56%). Students expressed positive attitudes toward the SI rotation, with 92 (76%) agreeing on the accessibility of medical staff/chief residents, 89 (74%) indicating clarity in goals, 86 (71%) understanding practical issues in clinical settings, 83 (69%) recognizing good learning opportunities for practicing essential skills, and 81 (67%) reporting good opportunities to observe and perform procedures. However, 53 (44%) found the rotation duration inadequate for achieving the desired objectives. Written feedback as narrative comments were also received. The commonly identified areas of improvement included effective communication of rotation objectives, a conducive learning environment, patient volume, standardized teaching, operating room exposure, student assignment to interns, resident involvement in teaching, and awareness of the stakeholders. Medical students provided positive perceptions regarding the surgical SI rotation. However, the identified areas of improvement should be integrated to enhance its overall effectiveness.
Caregiver burden and quality of life among family caregivers of hemodialysis patients from South India
Authors: Azeez Afina , Ambatipudi Srikant
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hemodialysis (HD) patients require assistance from family caregivers in performing daily activities. This additional responsibility may cause caregivers to feel burdened, resulting in a poor quality of life. The current study envisaged assessing the degree of caregiver burden (CB) and quality of life among the primary caregivers of HD patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among conveniently sampled, consenting family caregivers (N = 200) of HD patients in tertiary care dialysis centers in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, from March 2022 to May 2022. A structured interview schedule was used to collect sociodemographic data from participants. The caregiver burden and quality of life were assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview and the World Health Organization (WHO) Quality of Life (QoL) BREF scale. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between the variables.

RESULTS:

Fifty-eight percent of the caregivers reported CB. Caregivers with no leisure time (ORadj = 3.29 [95% CI: 1.73–6.41]), perceived financial stress (ORadj = 2.27 [95% CI: 1.16–4.49]), and having comorbidities (ORadj = 2.92 [95% CI: 1.43–6.12]) had an increased odds of experiencing caregiver burden. The CB score was inversely correlated with all domains of QoL. Moreover, the QoL score was lower among family caregivers with CB than those without CB.

CONCLUSION:

The present study highlights a high prevalence of caregiver burden, which negatively impacts the QoL of family caregivers of HD patients. This study opens up new directions for possible policy-making to reduce caregiver burden and improve the QoL of family caregivers.
Knowledge-related iron deficiency anemia among undergraduate nursing female students in the University of Baghdad
Authors: Najm Massara A. , Al-Ganmi Ali Hussein Alek , Hassan Ahmed Fleih
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:

Globally, iron deficiency anemia is a problematic nutritional deficiency health-related issue that impacts early-adulthood people such as university students. The aim was to asses female nursing students’ knowledge concerning iron deficiency anemia in the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional survey was carried out from the period of June 18, 2023 to December 20, 2023. Nonprobability (purposive) samples of 100 female nursing students were selected from the second, third, and fourth stages in the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad. Data collection included students’ sociodemographic characteristics, and students’ knowledge questionnaire consists of “20” constructed questions, which included the students’ knowledge about iron deficiency. The knowledge questionnaire has been developed through reading textbooks and review of the literature for the related topic. The data have been analyzed through the application of descriptive and inferential analysis and using SPSS version 26.

RESULTS:

The finding of the study revealed that the level of female students’ knowledge regarding iron deficiency anemia based on the total mean score of M(SD) = 1.33 (0.39) showed a poor level. Also, there is a significant association between students’ age and academic stage with their level of knowledge of iron deficiency anemia, P = 0.028.

CONCLUSION:

The female nursing students at the University of Baghdad had a poor level of knowledge about iron deficiency anemia, and this can be attributed to their academic stage in the College of Nursing. There is a significant association between students’ age and academic stage with their iron deficiency anemia knowledge. Faculty of nursing should increase female students’ health awareness and their understanding, knowledge, motivation, and perception regarding iron deficiency and how to prevent it.
The effectiveness of implemented interventions at the workplace to promote the mental health of working women: A systematic review
Authors: Najafabadi Zakieh Arab , Vaezi Atefeh , Tavakolifard Negah , Amini Zahra
Published: December 2024

Over the last decades, a gradual increase in prevailing mental disorders in the adult population has been observed all over the world. Global estimates of anxiety, stress, depression, and mood disorders prevalence have also been high. Employed women are susceptible to experiencing some symptoms or mental disorders due to their lifestyle or working conditions. The objective of this study is to find effective interventions based on the workplace to improve the mental health of employed women. This systematic review was conducted by following PRISMA guidelines to report systematic reviews. The papers in Web of Science, Scopus, PubMed, and Google Scholar for English and SID, Magiran, and Irandoc for Persian resources were searched from 2005 to 2023. To include the final study, 15 papers were eligible to be selected. The findings of this study show that giving interventions to improve the mental health of employed women is hopeful and employers may promote their mental health through performing low-cost and effective intervention programs such as setting up supportive training groups’ sessions and group exercises. The outcomes of performing this study may help to increase our knowledge concerning the necessity of giving effective health interventions to women in the workplace and to consider the shortage of giving such interventions. Therefore, giving the interventions is recommended aiming at the health and welfare improvement of employed women.
Ventricular Septal Defects in Adults: A Bedside Case Discussion for Residents
Authors: Garg Prerna , Rengan Aatish , Srinivasan Hitesh
Published: December 2024

A young boy presented with palpitations and shortness of breath. He had a history of recurrent chest infections as a child. The clinical approach to such a patient along with correlation from investigations is discussed as a teaching exercise for cardiology fellows in training.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices regarding Predictors of Calorie Labeling among Adults in Abha, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhazmi Amani
Published: December 2024

Background:

The implementation of calorie labeling in restaurants has been proposed to improve dietary choices, prompting a need to understand adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding its effectiveness.

Objective:

This study aims to assess adults’ KAP and their predictors regarding the implementation of calorie labeling in restaurants.

Methods:

In December 2023, a cross-sectional study using convenience sampling was conducted involving 250 Adults (≥18 years) living in Abha, Saudi Arabia. The participants completed an online validated close-ended questionnaire assessing demographic factors, KAP toward menu calorie labeling. General linear regression analysis was used to examine predictors of participants’ overall calorie labeling KAP levels.

Results:

About 61.2% of participants possessed high calorie-labeling knowledge, 77.2% reported a positive attitude, and 81.2% had good practices. Moreover, 53.2% reported a decrease in eating out frequency, 29.8% indicated a reduction in portion sizes, and 17.0% changed to a healthier lifestyle. A significant association existed between higher knowledge, positive attitudes, and the subsequent adoption of good practices concerning calorie labeling (χ2 = 70.217 and χ2 = 100.457, respectively, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

These findings may provide valuable insights into the ongoing discourse on the efficacy of calorie labeling initiatives in shaping dietary behaviors.
Assessment of Thyroid Profile in Pregnancy-associated Hypertensive Disorders
Authors: Aziz Farah
Published: December 2024

Background:

Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), affect approximately 10.92% of pregnancies globally, with a notable prevalence in Saudi Arabia.

Aims and Objectives:

This study aims to assess the thyroid hormone profile in pregnant women diagnosed with normotensive conditions, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia.

Material and Methods:

The cross-sectional study includes total of 147 pregnant women, categorized into three groups based on clinical diagnosis: preeclampsia (n=50), gestational hypertension (n=47), and normotensive controls (n=50). Blood pressure was recorded on more than two occasions after 20 weeks of gestation. Proteinuria was assessed using the dipstick method in a 24-hour urine sample. The levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free tetra iodothyronine (FT4) were estimated using the ELISA method. Based on the interpretation of laboratory results and clinical conclusion, study subjects were grouped as thyroid dysfunction types. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA followed by Tukeys Honest test at 0.001 level of significance.

Results:

The results indicate significant difference in general characteristics among the three groups at 0.001 level. Overall thyroid profile parameters showed no significant difference among the groups. Mean TSH was increased in all groups with no significant difference. A total of 4% of study subjects in all groups reported subclinical hypothyroidism, whereas 2% reported subclinical hyperthyroidism.

Conclusion:

The study shows that while thyroid profile parameters were elevated in gestational hypertension, there was no significant difference compared to controls. It also found that 4% of participants had subclinical hypothyroidism, and 2% had subclinical hyperthyroidism. The study highlights the need for multicenter research to improve understanding and generalizability of thyroid dysfunction in gestational hypertension.
Assessing the Awareness of Medical Ionizing Radiation Exposure among General Public in Saudi Arabia: Aseer Region
Authors: Alshihri Abdulaziz A. , Hadadi Ibrahim , Alqahtani Basmah , Alshahrani Alanoud , Alahmari Nouf , Assiri Maha , Asiri Shuruq
Published: December 2024

Objective:

This paper aimed to evaluate awareness of medical exposure to ionizing radiation among the general public in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted. The anonymous electronic questionnaire comprising of 22 questions was classified into three major sections: knowledge, attitudes, and the encountered practices. The questionnaire was distributed to random patients who underwent the medical examinations that involved ionizing radiation. The data were analyzed employing descriptive statistics using SPSS.

Results:

The questionnaire received 143 completed responses, and the analyzed results of this study suggested that the level of knowledge and awareness of medical ionizing radiation exposure among the general public in Saudi Arabia (Aseer region) is inadequate.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study showed that the level of awareness is insufficient and that there is a need for educating the public about the risks associated with medical ionizing radiation exposure.
Using Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems as a Smoking Cessation Method in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Community-based Qualitative Study
Authors: Zahrani Yousef , Al Ghamdi Ibrahim
Published: December 2024

Background:

Smoking remains a significant public health problem in Saudi Arabia. Reports from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority showed an increasing prevalence of smoking among adult population. Recently, new electronic nicotine delivery systems have emerged and used as possible tools for quitting smoking. Nonetheless, the health-related risks of the electronic nicotine delivery systems have raised concerns, and their effectiveness in promoting smoking cessation remains questionable.

Materials and Methods:

This community-based qualitative study aims to explore the attitudes and experiences of smokers in the Al-Baha Region of Saudi Arabia, regarding the use of the new devices for smoking cessation.

Results:

Ten adult smokers from the local community participated in semi-structured interviews to collect data. Thematic analysis was adopted, with QRS-NVivo 8 used for coding and data management. Findings revealed a low successful rate of smoking cessation among electronic nicotine delivery system users, suggesting these devices may be ineffective in aiding quit attempts. The main motivations to use the new devices included social acceptance, peer influence, desire to quit, and the absence of smoking odor. However, the high nicotine concentrations in these devices appeared to contribute to continued smoking, potentially explaining the low cessation rate. The results also indicated that electronic nicotine delivery systems may not be a reliable tool for smoking cessation in the Saudi population.

Conclusions:

Further large-scale research is needed to evaluate the long-term risks and effectiveness of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems as a smoking cessation aid and to better understand the factors influencing smoking behavior in different cultural settings.
The Effects of Thyroid Status on Blood Pressure in a Diabetic Patient among the Saudi Population
Authors: Alqahtani Saif Aboud M.
Published: December 2024

Background:

The thyroid hormones are crucial in regulating metabolism, energy production, and the functioning of various organs, including the heart. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can affect cardiovascular health, leading to potential links with blood pressure (BP) and diabetes.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to explore the impact of thyroid status on BP among diabetic individuals in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:

A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on the laboratory findings of 11,632 individuals (5764 females and 5868 males) diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. These participants were screened for the effects of thyroid status and BP over 1 year in various regions of Saudi Arabia. Baseline demographic characteristics, hemoglobin A1c, thyroid profile, and BP were included in the screening process. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS statistics.

Results:

Among different age groups, the 41–60 age group predominated, with females representing 44.3% (n = 1974) and males 55.7% (n = 2486). BP was significantly higher in females (P < 0.001). Distinct thyroid profiles were evident, with females having higher free thyroxine levels (1.01 ± 0.16) compared to males (0.99 ± 0.14) (P < 0.001). Abnormal BP prevalence varied across thyroid categories. Primary hypothyroidism in females showed a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (HTN) (72.5%) than in males (27.5%) (P = 0.002). Subclinical hypothyroidism exhibited gender-based disparities, with 62.2% of females and 37.8% of males having HTN (P < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive association between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and systolic BP (SBP) (r = 0.29, P = 0.004). Regression analysis indicated TSH as a significant risk factor for higher SBP (B = 0.246, P = 0.001).

Conclusion:

Our study reveals gender-based age and BP variations, emphasizing the link between hypothyroidism and HTN in diabetic individuals. There is a significant positive association between TSH levels and SBP.
Transition from Microscopic to Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery for Pituitary Tumors at a Single Institution: A Comparison of Outcomes and Complications
Authors: Aman Renindra Ananda , Sitorus Risayogi Wicaksana , Anindya Yodie , Wicaksana Bima Andyan , Kurniawan Ramadhan , Perkasa Sayyid Abdil Hakam , Santoso Fabianto
Published: December 2024

Background:

Transsphenoidal surgery with an operative microscope is the standard procedure for pituitary adenoma resection at our institution. This study compared the outcomes and complications of the two approaches at our institution and reported our learning curve in handling endoscopic instruments for pituitary tumors.

Materials and Methods:

We compared the extent of resection, reoperation rate, blood loss volume, operative time, and complications of postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage and diabetes insipidus (DI) between microscopic and endoscopic transsphenoidal approaches. Tumor extension to the suprasellar area and cavernous sinus were also analyzed to determine their relationship with surgical outcomes.

Results:

Twenty-seven (55.1%) and 22 (44.9%) patients underwent microscopic and endoscopic transsphenoidal surgeries, respectively. The two approaches had no significant differences in the total removal rate, reoperation rate, postoperative CSF leakage rate, blood loss volume, and operative time. Patients who received endoscopic surgery had a higher rate of DI (P = 0.002). Tumor extension to the cavernous sinus significantly predicted the total resection rate (P = 0.002).

Conclusion:

Our report showed no significant differences in the outcomes between the two approaches. Patients who underwent endoscopic surgery were more likely to develop DI, given the limitations of endoscopy instruments. We report our learning curve for endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery in terms of the duration of surgery.