bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tuning and Matching Error Compensated, Quantitative Solid-state NMR
Authors: Cortes Sanchez Hector Javier , Rüthing Lukas Paul , Schmedt auf der Günne Jörn
Published: April 2024

Abstract NMR spectroscopy has long been recognized as a powerful quantitative analytical tool. Quantification is commonly done against internal and external standards. A third approach is to quantify against an electronic reference which combines the advantages of the two methods. The implementation of this approach in solid-state NMR is more challenging due to the single-coil design of double resonance probes. In this study, a novel approach for implementing the electronic referencing method in solid-state NMR by injecting the reference signal using a broadband antenna installed near the NMR receiver coil is presented. This method demonstrates excellent accuracy and precision, as it remains robust to changes in the electronic conditions of the probe, including tuning and matching errors.
Repurposing a catalytic cycle for transient self-assembly
Authors: Amano Shuntaro , Hermans Thomas
Published: April 2024

Life operates out of equilibrium to enable various sophisticated behaviors. Synthetic chemists have strived to mimic biological non-equilibrium systems in such fields as autonomous molecular machines and dissipative self-assembly. Central to these efforts has been development of new chemical reaction cycles, which drive systems out of equilibrium by conversion of chemical fuel into waste species. However, construction of reaction cycles has been challenging due to the difficulty of finding compatible reactions that constitute a cycle. Here, we realized an alternative approach of repurposing a known catalytic cycle as a chemical reaction cycle for driving dissipative self-assembly. This approach can overcome the compatibility problem, because all steps involved in a catalytic cycle are already known to proceed concurrently under the same conditions. Our repurposing approach is applicable to diverse combinations of catalytic cycles and systems to drive out of equilibrium, which will substantially broaden the scope of out-of-equilibrium systems.
CONDUCTOR, a fast, efficient and robust tool for continuum solvation computations for macromolecules
Authors: Zauhar Randy , Juffer Andre
Published: April 2024

This introduces CONDUCTOR, an algorithm for computing solvation effects for large molecules using the continuum approximation. While we represent electrostatic polarization by the mechanism of induced surface charge, we avoid the explicit computation of a Green function as found with the Boundary Element Method (BEM). Instead, we assume as a starting point the conducting approximation for aqueous solvent, and adjust the induced polarization charge defined on the molecular surface, so as to force the electric potential to zero at field points positioned on the solvent side of the surface. The charge density for finite external dielectric constant can then be approximated using a simple perturbation approach. The reaction field arising from the induced charge distribution is used to compute the contribution of solvent to the electrostatic potential and forces for the molecular fixed charges. The method is robust, being relatively insensitive to small defects or singularities in the molecular surface, and can be extended to periodic structures such as membranes. Computations for proteins with nearly 300 residues can be carried out in about ten minutes on inexpensive server hardware. We compare the results of our new approach to the conventional Boundary Element Method, and find them equivalent, and by some measures superior, to the BEM, and achieved with much less computational expense.
Well-defined synthetic copolymers with pendent aldehydes form biocompatible strain-stiffening hydrogels and enable competitive ligand displacement
Authors: Beeren Ivo Anton Octave , Morgan Francis Luke Culliford , Rademakers Timo , Dijkstra Pieter Jelle , Moroni Lorenzo , Baker Matthew Brandon
Published: April 2024

Dynamic hydrogels are attractive platforms for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine, but there are limited polymer platforms amenable to the formation of these dynamic materials. Most architectures reported are based either on telechelic synthetic polymers or side-chain modified natural polymers; synthetic versions of side-chain modified polymers are noticeably absent. Dynamic hydrogels are key tools for their ability to mimic key extracellular (ECM) mechanical properties like strain stiffening and stress relaxation, while enabling enhanced processing characteristics like injectability, 3D printing, and self-healing. Currently, the limited chemical design space is hindering progress. To facilitate access to new classes of dynamic hydrogels, we report the straightforward synthesis of a water-soluble copolymer with a tunable fraction of pendent aldehyde groups (12–64%) using controlled radical polymerization, and their formation into hydrogel biomaterials with dynamic crosslinks. We found the polymer synthesis to be well-controlled with the determined reactivity ratios consistent with blocky gradient microarchitecture. Subsequently, we observed fast gelation kinetics with imine-type crosslinking. We were able to vary hydrogel stiffness from ≈ 2–20 kPa and tune the onset of strain-stiffening towards a biologically relevant regime (critical stress ≈ 10 Pa). Moreover, we used fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) to demonstrate ligand displacement along the copolymer backbone via competitive binding and highlighted the cytocompatibility of our system using human dermal fibroblasts. The combination of highly tunable composition, stiffness, and strain-stiffening, in conjunction with temporal control over ligand exchange/presentation, positions these cytocompatible copolymers as a powerful synthetic platform for the rational design of next generation synthetic biomaterials.
Moldable plastics (polycaprolactone) can be acutely toxic to developing zebrafish and activate nuclear receptors in mammalian cells
Authors: James Bryan , Medvedev Alexander , Makarov Sergei , Nelson Robert , Reddy Christopher , Hahn Mark
Published: April 2024

Popularized on social media, hand-moldable plastics are formed by consumers into tools, trinkets, and dental prosthetics. Despite the anticipated dermal and oral contact, manufacturers share little information with consumers about these materials. Inherent to their function, moldable plastics pose a risk of dermal and oral exposure to unknown leachable substances. We analyzed 12 moldable plastics advertised for modeling and dental applications and determined them to be polycaprolactone (PCL) or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The bioactivities of the most popular brands advertised for modeling applications of each type of polymer were evaluated using a zebrafish embryo bioassay. Both products were sold as microplastic-sized resin pellets. While water-borne exposure to the TPU pellets did not affect the targeted developmental endpoints at any concentration tested, the PCL pellets were acutely toxic above 1 pellet/mL. Aqueous leachates of the PCL pellets demonstrated similar toxicity. Methanolic extracts from the PCL pellets were assayed for their bioactivity using the Attagene FACTORIAL platform. Of the 69 measured endpoints, the extracts activated nuclear receptors and transcription factors for xenobiotic metabolism (pregnane X receptor, PXR), lipid metabolism (peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, PPARg), and oxidative stress (nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2, NRF2). By non-targeted high-resolution comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography (GC×GC-HRT), we tentatively identified several compounds in the methanolic extracts, including PCL oligomers, a phenolic antioxidant, and residues of suspected anti-hydrolysis and crosslinking additives. In a follow-up zebrafish embryo bioassay, because of its stated high purity, biomedical grade PCL was tested to mitigate any confounding effects due to chemical additives in the PCL pellets; it elicited comparable acute toxicity. From these orthogonal and complementary experiments, we suggest that the toxicity was due to oligomers and nanoplastics released from the PCL rather than chemical additives. These results challenge the perceived and assumed inertness of plastics and highlight their multiple sources of toxicity.
Locally-Activated Chemogenetic pH Probes for Monitoring Protein Exocytosis
Authors: Coïs Justine , Niepon Marie-laure , Wittwer Manon , Bun Philippe , Mallet Jean-Maurice , Vialou Vincent , Dumat Blaise
Published: April 2024

Genetically encoded biosensors based on fluorescent proteins are valuable tools for imaging biological processes with high selectivity. In particular, pH-sensitive fluorescent proteins such as the GFP-derived superecliptic pHluorin (SEP) or pHuji allow tracking of protein trafficking through acidic and neutral compartments. Recently, chemogenetic indicators combining synthetic fluorophores with genetically encoded self-labeling protein tags (SLP-tag) offer a versatile alternative that combines the diversity of chemical probes and indicators with the selectivity of the genetic-encoding. Here, we describe a novel fluorogenic and chemogenetic pH sensor consisting of a cell-permeable molecular pH indicator called pHluo-Halo-1 whose fluorescence can be locally activated in cells by reaction with the SLP-tag HaloTag ensuring high signal selectivity in wash-free imaging experiments. pHluo-Halo display a good pH sensitivity and a suitable pKa of 5.9 to monitor biological pH variations. This hybrid chemogenetic pH probe was applied to follow the exocytosis of a CD63-HaloTag fusion proteins enabling the visualization of exosomes released from acidic vesicles into the extracellular media using TIRF microscopy. This chemogenetic platform is expected to be a powerful and versatile tool for elucidating the dynamics and regulatory mechanisms of proteins in living cells.
Acridine Photocatalysis Enables Tricomponent Direct Decarboxylative Amine Construction
Authors: Sui Xianwei , Dang Hang , Porey Arka , Trevino Ramon , Das Arko , Fremin Seth , Hughes William , Thompson Wiliiam , Dhakal Shree Krishna , Arman Hadi , Larionov Oleg
Published: April 2024

Amines are centrally important motifs in medicinal chemistry and biochemistry, and indispensable intermediates and linchpins in organic synthesis. Despite their cross-disciplinary prominence, synthetic access to amine continues to rely on two-electron approaches based on reductions and additions of organometallic reagents, limiting their accessible chemical space and necessitating stepwise preassembly of synthetic precursors. We report herein a homogeneous photocatalytic tricomponent decarboxylative radical-mediated amine construction that enables modular access to α-branched secondary amines directly from the broad and structurally diverse chemical space of carboxylic acids in a tricomponent reaction with aldehydes and aromatic amines. Our studies reveal the key role of acridine photocatalysis acting in concert with copper and Brønsted acid catalytic processes in facilitating the previously inaccessible homogeneous photocatalytic reaction and provide a streamlined segue to a wide range of amines and nonproteinogenic α-amino acids.
Secondary Cationic Interaction Driven Substrate Ligand Affinity for Pd(II)-Catalyzed Enantioselective C-H Activation of Ferrocenyl Amines
Authors: Parganiha Devendra , Thorat Raviraj Ananda , Dhumale Ashwini Dilip , Upadhyay Yagya Dutt , Jha Raushan Kumar , Raju Saravanan , Kumar Sangit
Published: April 2024

Secondary amines as a directing group for C-H activation have limitations as they are prone to undergo oxidation, allylic deamination, and β-hydride elimination. The fundamental challenge observed here is the competition between the desired C-H activation versus the vulnerable β-C-H bond of secondary amine when the substrate ligand affinity is not strong enough. Herein, a potential of axially chiral NOBINAc ligand is revealed on accelerating enantioselective Pd(II)-catalyzed C-H activation process of ferrocenyl secondary amines. Further, the secondary interaction of cesium cation with NOBINAc ligand and sulfonate group of secondary amine plays an impressive role in mitigating the potential threat of β-hydride elimination via an enhanced substrate ligand affinity. This approach resulted in enantioselective C-H activation and intermolecular annulation of ferrocenyl secondary amines with allenes, leading to ferrocene fused tetrahydropyridines up to 70% yields and 98% of ee.
Knowledge and self care practices among type-2 diabetics attending tertiary care hospital, Visakhapatnam City.
Authors: . Sarada.V , S and Madhavi DB Madhavi
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease requiring continuous medical care and strict glycemic control along with multiple risk-reduction strategies. Knowledge regarding diabetes and self-care practices are critical to prevent complications and to improve diabetes outcome. The present study was undertaken among type 2 diabetics to assess knowledge and self-care practices regarding diabetes.METHODSAdescriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2014 to December 2014 among 110 type 2 diabetics in tertiary care hospital Visakhapatnam. A semi structured pretested questionnaire was administered prior consent. Results were analyzed by using SPSS - 21 trial version. Statistical methods used were frequencies proportions standard error of difference between two proportions and plt0.05 was considered for statistical significance.RESULTS Among 110 study subjects 38.2 were males and 61.8 were females. Majority of participants were of age group 51-60 years. Knowledge regarding various activities such as performing regular physical activity dietary modifications and blood glucose monitoring seen in 70.9 72.7274.54 of study participants respectively. Whereas knowledge regarding symptoms of hyperglycemia hypoglycemia seen in 46.36 and 30.9 of participants respectively. Among self-care practices following healthy diet planz2.12regular physical activityz2.14 and regular intake of medicationz2.19 were practiced well and were significantly associated with attaining glycemic control. Self-care practices like foot care periodic eye-checkups carrying quick acting sugars were poorly practiced.CONCLUSION As evidenced by study there is a need to promote self-care practices among the diabetics and integrate all the components of self-care education in clinical practice for better outcome in the management of diabetes.nbsp
Prevailing food taboos among pregnant women in urban slums of Bengaluru- a cross sectional study.
Authors: BC Narasimha , KS and Ranganath TS Ravish
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION Poor maternal nutrition especially in urban slums adversely affects pregnancy and birth outcomes. In many local communities pregnant women have food taboos which consequently results in depletion of vital nutrients. Hence this study is aimed at describing women who are likely to have certain taboos or misconceptions during pregnancy.METHODS A cross sectional study was conducted in few urban slums of Bengaluru. 160 Pregnant women were selected by simple random sampling method. Prendashtested questionnaire was used to collect information. All the Pregnant women above 18 years of age were interviewed.RESULTS Out of 160 pregnant women interviewed 41.25 were in the age group of 18-22 years. Majority of the women 88.1 were literates and 61.8 were housewives. Most of them 53.75 belong to upper-lower class. About 75 women had some kind of food taboos associated with pregnancy. The common food taboos seen were avoidance of some foodfruits during the pregnancy. Most common foods avoided were Papaya 55 Jack fruit 37.5 and Ground nut 36.25. Reasons given for not consuming these foods were many and about 56.25 of pregnant women perceived that eating papaya will cause abortion. 43.75 amp 36.25 said it may cause harm to the mother and baby respectivelynbsp
Junk food consumption and malnutrition among Medical and Dental college students, Bangalore
Authors: HC Vani , SP Suryanarayana
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTIONnbspJunk foods are energy dense foods poor in micronutrients and regular consumption of them can adversely affect our health. Assuming medical and dental college students have adequate knowledge regarding ill-effects of junk food consumption we have still seen few of them consuming it. Current study was designed to assess the pattern of junk food consumption among medical amp dental college students and reasons for the same.OBJECTIVEnbspAssess the pattern of junk food consumption among medical amp dental college students and reasons for the same. To correlate junk food consumption between body mass index and waist circumference.METHODSnbspCross-sectional study was conducted among 163 medical and dental college students. Pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire was administered to assess the pattern of junk food consumption reasons for the same. Height weight amp waist circumference were measured.RESULTSnbspIn present study 80.4 started consuming junk foods from primary school level and 71.2 consumed more than twice a week in past 3 months. Reasons for same were 83.4 found tasty and 56.4 easy availability. Out of 163 11.7 were under-weight amp 15.3 obese amp 16.6 had waist circumference above cut-off values. Pearson correlation co-efficient was significant for consumption of puff aerated drinksweek for waist circumference ice cream coneweek for BMI amp also for waist circumference.CONCLUSIONnbspjunk food consumption initiation started from primary school level in 80.4. In the past 3 months 71.2 consumed more than twice a week most common reason was finding it tasty and easy availability. In our study 46 were overweight obese. Consumption of puff aerated drinks and ice cream significantly correlated with increased waist circumference and BMI.
Prevalence of Hypertension in school teachers of Bengaluru
Authors: D Manjula , B Sahu , NS and Babu GR Sasikumar
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND The burden of hypertension is rapidly rising in India and if uncontrolled can lead to greater complications and mortality. Apart from the lifestyle factors it is important to explore the workplace stressors in the aetiology of hypertension.METHODS In order to understand the association of hypertension and stress in teachers of urban areas of India data was collected from 401 school teachers. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect information on job stress and other risk factors. Data was collected from 123 schools using a validated questionnaire. Blood Pressure of respondents was measured using a modified approach of Peters Schnall and Karen Bettoic and classified as per the recommendations of the Joint National Commission UNG-VII.RESULTS Among the 401 schools teachers 28 had normal blood pressure 36 were pre hypertensive 24 were - 1 stage hypertensive and 12 in stage-II hypertension. Among the other results one fifth of the teachers whose parentssiblings had hypertension had normal BP and more than one third of teachers whose parents did not have hypertension had normal BP 35. The unadjusted estimates indicate that emotional and work profile stressors were associated with hypertension. However this effect disappeared after adjusting the confounders.CONCLUSION There is high prevalence of hypertension among public school teachers of Bengaluru. Creating awareness among BBMP school teachers regarding lifestyle modifications and regular screening of blood pressure is crucial.
Shadow beneath the Lamp? The high burden of Diabetes and Hypertension in the workforce of health department, Karnataka, South India
Authors: M Parimala , NS Sasikumar , S Prafulla , R Deepa , A Yamuna , R Babu Giridhara
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND Among the NCDs in India type 2 diabetes Mellitus T2DM and hypertension are the major diseases leading to catastrophic complications such as coronary heart disease CHD renal impairment stroke and death. It is important therefore to detect the burden of these diseases in specified populationsMATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional survey of 510 persons working at the state level directorate of health was done to assess the burden of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus T2DM and Hypertension HTN. Anthropometric measurement of the staff was recorded along with the blood pressure and random blood glucose levels. The objective of the study was to estimate the burden of select NCDs and associated risk factors in the employees of Directorate of Health and Family Welfare Services Karnataka DHFWS.RESULTS We observed that 40 of the workforce in the health directorate was overweight and 11 were obese. 18 had T2DM and 31 had hypertension.CONCLUSIONS The study indicates high proportion of diabetes and hypertension in the staff of health department. Routine screening and medical check-up programs are recommended to identify the risk category and timely intervention.
Knowledge and Attitude about Rabies and its prevention among Practicing Physicians in urban Bengaluru
Authors: . Vinay
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION Rabies is a preventable enzootic endemic disease in India which contributes to 35 of overall rabies-related deaths of the world. Knowledge and a healthy attitude towards the Post Exposure Prophylaxis PEP measures against Rabies is the need-of-the-hour among medical practitioners. OBJECTIVE To assess theKnowledge and Attitude of PEP among medical practitioners in urban Bengaluru.METHODOLOGY Medical practitioners were interviewed at their workplace using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Results of the statistical analysis are presented in the form of proportions and percentages..RESULTS The study included 62 medical practitioners. Only 51.61 and 54.83 of the physicians knew that scratches and licks could also transmit the infection and only 54.83 mentioned hydrophobia as a symptom. 19.35 of themstated that rabies was treatable. Regarding the knowledge of PEP 70.97 knew that the immediate measure was to wash the wound with soap and water and around 88.71 of subjects were not aware about the correct categorization of wounds. 58.06 quoted the ARV schedule correctly. Only 19.35 knew about the intradermal schedule of ARV 64.51 subjects knew that RIG was administered around the wound and 9.68 knew the schedule to be followed in case of previous dog bite history.CONCLUSION The knowledge and attitude about Rabies PEP among physicians was very superficial ldquoworking knowledgerdquo and majority of the subjectswere not abreast of the latest WHO guidelines on Rabies.nbsp
Assessment of Depression among antenatal women in a teritiary care Centre in bengaluru: a cross sectional study
Authors: N Ramya , S Saraswathi , T S Ranganath
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND Antenatal depression also known as prenatal depression is a form of clinical depression that can affect a woman during pregnancy. In many women antenatal depression continues to progress into postnatal depression affecting both the mother and the child. Maternal distress during pregnancy is associated with increased infant cortisol levels and has an impact on the developing foetal brain leading to cognitive emotional and behavioural difficulties in childhood. Hence an accurate assessment of depression during pregnancy is essential to safeguard the well- being of the mother and child. This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression and factors influencing depression in pregnant women.METHODS A cross-sectional study was carried out between May 2016 to August 2016 in a large public tertiary care hospital in Bangalore. One hundred and fifty antenatal mothers were interviewed employing the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale EPDS.RESULTS We found that14.6 of antenatal women had high levels of depression 21.3 had moderate levels of depression and 64 had low levels of depression. Coming to the contributing factors 42.1 of antenatal women who had not had antenatal visits previously 18.75 of antenatal women who had delivered through C-section earlier 38 of antenatal women whose mothers were no more and 18.75 of antenatal women who had lsquodifficultrsquo relationships with their husbands all had statistically significantlsquohigh levelsrsquo of depression.CONCLUSION The study emphasises that factors for depression among pregnant women include being irregular in attending ANC visits relationship issues with the husband and other family members and having lost their mothers.nbsp
Effect of exposure to ambient Particulate Matter (PM2.5) onAdverse Infant Outcomes: An ecological study.
Authors: Prafulla S , Anirudh S , . Gangaborah , Thankachan Prashanth , R Deepa , Lobo Eunice , R. Babu Giridhara
Published: April 2024

Background Air pollution including ambient air pollution is a global concern attributed to nearly 4.3 million annual deaths worldwide. The model projections based on emission scenarios indicate that this contribution could double by 2050. Ambient fine particulate matter PM air pollution is a major risk factor for ill health and death. Our research explores the association between ambient level of particulate matter 2.5PM2.5 and adverse infant outcomes in capital cities of Low and middle-income countries LMIC and high-income countries HICs.Objectives To estimate the level of PM2.5 across selected LMICs and High-income countries HICs and to establishascertain the predictors of ambient air pollution correlated with adverse infant outcomes. Methods Through an ecological study that included data at country-level from the Global Burden of Diseases 2015 we assessed the exposure to PM2.5 of capital cities of selected LMICs using custom-built software. The primary outcomes of interest were low birth weight infant mortality rate and the incidence of pneumonia. We developed a linear regression model to evaluate the relationship between mean PM2.5 and the outcomes of interest. In this model we have controlled for demographic indicators as female literacy rate smoking habits usage of solid fuel and exclusive breastfeeding. The data on exposure is the realtime data that we obtained for the year of 2017 but the outcome we have is extracted from the recently published Global Burden of Diseases data of 2015.Results Higher levels of PM2.5 levels in the capital cities of LMICsoccurmainly in Dhaka Bangladesh Jakarta Indonesia followed by Hanoi Vietnam. We found significant association between PM2.5 and Low birth weight infant mortality however PM2.5 was significantly associated with incidence of Pneumonia. There is limited causal inference due to the ecological nature of the study.Conclusion The need for individual-level prospective studies is imperative in nature to determine the causal relationship between the burdensome ambient air pollution and adverse infant outcomes especially in LMICs. nbsp
A comparison of paper-based versus smart phone-based data collection system for field-based survey in two districts of Karnataka
Authors: Murthy H J Deepak , S G Kishore , B C Narasimha , T S Ranganath , . Vishwanath
Published: April 2024

Background A survey to be effective data collection systems should be able to maintain data integrity quickly provide analysis-ready data and be sustainable to run. In the last decade information and communication technology has experienced immense growth and development. In the health care sector electronic devices are being used to collect and store data in place of traditional pen-and-paper data collection which can involve labour-intensive data entry and limit timely analyses.Objective To compare the data quality timeliness and operating costs of the smart phone data collection system versus the pen-and-paper data collection system.Methodology Community Medicine departments of BMCRI and KOIMS with State Anti-Tobacco Cell conducted field-based compliance assessment survey for COTPA in Bengaluru urban and Kodagu districts. Bengaluru team replaced paper-based data collection with smart phone-based data collection system. We compared 351 each of paper-based questionnaires and smart phone questionnaires.Results Incomplete records were more likely seen in data collected using pen-and-paper compared to data collected using smart phones adjusted incidence rate ratio aIRR 7 95 CI 4.4-10.3. Errors and inconsistent answers were also more likely to be seen in data collected using pen-and-paper compared to data collected using smart phones aIRR 25 95 CI 12.5-51.8. Smart phone data was uploaded into the database in a median time of 7 hours while paper-based data took 21 days plt0.01. It cost Rs 1501 9.4 more to establish the smart phone data collection system.Conclusion Compared to paper-based data collection an electronic data collection system produced fewer incomplete data fewer errors inconsistent responses and delivered data faster. Although start-up costs were higher the overall costs of establishing and running the electronic data collection system were lower compared to paper-based data collection system. Electronic data collection using smart phones has potential to improve timeliness data integrity and reduce costs.
Impact of health insurance on out-of-pocket health expenditure among inpatients in India
Authors: Ghosh Rituparna , Kant Dwivedi Laxmi
Published: April 2024

Background Introduction of advanced technologies in health sectors have caused high treatment and diagnostic cost to the patients. In developing countries direct out of pocket expenditure is the principle means to cope up with the great burden of health expenditure. Predominant OOP expenditure in health is indicative of a highly regressive health care system as well as poverty.1Objective To estimate the impact of Health insurance plans on OOP health expenditure in India.Methodology The study used 71st round of National Sample Survey NSS data from January to June 2014 on social consumption section 25.0.With multi stage sampling 65932 households and 333104 persons were selected. OOP expenditure was calculated as the difference between total medical expenditure and the amount reimbursed for a person. Univariate and bivariate analysis was used to see the distribution of health insurance coverage. To investigate the variation in coverage at different level of sampling multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed and intra class correlation coefficient was used. Results Male are more covered by any schemes of health insurance than female. People from smaller family size are more likely to have health insurance than people from bigger families. 18 urban people are under coverage while its only 14 for rural people. 4 of the residual variance in the coverage of health insurance is explained due to the change in state while 5 is explained by the change in FSU village. In OLS model the mean OOP health expenditure is 5058.57 Rs for insured person whereas 6063.55 Rs for an un-insured person.Conclusion It shows a reduction of 5136.97 Rs in OOP expenditure for an insured person compared to an uninsured person. We can say that OLS suppress the effect of health insurance on the incidence of OOP health expenditure.
A study to compare work profile of Rural and UrbanAnganwadi Workers in Bangalore.
Authors: Thangaraj Selvi , G Abhijnana , T S Ranganath , N Vishwanath
Published: April 2024

Background Anganawadi Centre AWC is a point of contact to deliver supplementary nutrition to many beneficiaries such as Antenatal postnatal mothers and Under 6 year children at grass root level in the community. Smooth delivery of services depends on education experience locality and training of Anganawadi workersAWW which in turn affect nutritional status of beneficiaries.Objective This study was planned to compare the work profile of Anganawadi workers of urban and rural Bangalore.Methodology All 30 AWW are included for the study. 10 AWW are from urban and 20 are from one of the rural practice areas of Department of Community Medicine Bangalore Medical college and Research Institute Bangalore was included. This study employed interviewing AWW with pretested semi-structured questionnaire for data collection after obtaining written informed consent from the participants. The data collected was entered in MS excel 2016 and analysed using SPSS software version 23.0.Results 90 of Rural AWWs had completed 10 years of service compared tourban AWWrsquos 50. 90 of AWW in Urban ICDS centres stayed in same locality while 60 of AWW in Rural ICDS centres were from distant localityp0.01. Mean time Anganawadi centres remained open in rural was 4.75hours and urban was 4hoursp0.004. Mean time spent on Serving and feeding of supplementary nutrition to 3 to lt6years old children in rural AWC is 28.5min and urban AWC is 11.8minp0.05.Conclusion AWW should be recruited based on Merit and they should be relocated to their own areas of residences to avoid problems of travelling. The existing training of AWWs to be evaluated and their continuous education should be strengthened to enhance the services.nbsp
Implementation of Competency Based CommunityMedicine Curriculum in Undergraduate MedicalEducation: Time to Think and Act.
Authors: Kulkarni Praveen
Published: April 2024

None
Bio-Statistical Methods and Bio-Medical Research–Challenges
Authors: Murthy NS , Chandrashekara Nooyi C. , Radhika K , S Shivaraj N
Published: April 2024

None
Knowledge and Attitude about risk factors and warning signs of stroke among general population in Chintamani Taluk, Karnataka
Authors: B A Arvind , G Suman , K Lalitha , Isaac Arjunan , N S Shivaraj , S Pruthvish
Published: April 2024

Background Stroke is leading cause of death and disability globally and nationally. Knowledge about risk factors and warning signs of stroke at population level plays a crucial role in prevention and control of stroke.Objective This study was planned to assess the knowledge about risk factors amp warning signs of stroke and attitude towards stroke among the general population of Chintamani taluk Karnataka India.Methodology This cross-sectional study was undertaken in Chintamani taluk between June and July 2012 covering a population of 1245 individuals aged 18 years and above. Study area was stratified as rural and urban and further villages amp wards were selected by simple random sampling technique in rural and urban area respectively. Study subjects were interviewed using a pre-tested semi structured questionnaire.Results More than 50 of the study population were not aware of the common risk factors of stroke like physical inactivity inadequate diet hypertension diabetes. Knowledge of males and rural participants was significantly Plt0.05 better when compared to their counterparts. Paralysis of any part of the body was recognized aswarning sign by 89 of the study participants. However awareness about other warning signs was not satisfactory. Majority had a favorable attitude towards stroke.Conclusion Among the general population of Chintamani taluk awareness about select warning signs of stroke are satisfactory and in general they have a favorable attitude towards stroke. However they have poor knowledge about the risk factors of stroke. Hence appropriate IEC campaign should be designed and implemented.nbsp
Effectiveness of First Aid training: Engaging community stake holders in rural India.
Authors: R Deepthi , Shetty Achal , Murthy S Krishna , M N Shruthi
Published: April 2024

Background First aid helps in preserving lives preventing further harm promoting recovery. Health workers and school teachers are the key community stakeholders in delivering health care and taking care of children respectively. Itrsquos essential that these two groups must be trained in first aid. Hence this study is aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of health education in improving the knowledge of health workers and teachers regarding the first aid care in a rural administrative unit.Objective to assess their knowledge regarding providing first aid and also to evaluate effectiveness of our training. The effectiveness of training among ASHAs and teachers were also compared.Methods An interventional study was undertaken in Uttanoor gram panchayat rural administrative unit of Kolar district covering 10000 population. Study population included all health workers and high school teachers belonging to the rural administrative unit. Objective type of questions was used to assess their knowledge before and after training in first aid. Training included lecture and demonstration. The performance was analyzed by comparing the median scores using Mann Whitney U test and the improvement in the knowledge was assessed by using the Wilcoxon Signed rank test. Results 62 of health workers and 83 of teachers informed that they were not trained in first aid ever before. Overall pretest scores of 3.45 plusmn 1.43 increased significantly to 7.8 plusmn 0.97 after the training plt0.001. Pretest scores of teachers 3.5 plusmn 1.4 and health workers 3.4 plusmn 1.6 also increased significantly to 7.6 plusmn 1.2 and 8.0 plusmn 0.5 respectively. Health workers faired equivalent to that of school teachers.Conclusions Training in first aid improved knowledge of teachers and health workers. Hence a quality education on first aid will facilitate teachers and health workers to save lives in emergency.
Evaluation of Novel Biochemical Markers in Sudarshan Kriya Yoga (SKY) Practicing Individuals
Authors: S Ashakiran , H Ravish , C Venkateshappa
Published: April 2024

Background Sudarshan Kriya is a powerful yet simple rhythmic breathing technique that incorporates specific natural rhythms of the breath which results in harmonizing the body mind and emotions. Trans- and cis-fatty acids have different metabolic effects on plasma low-density lipoprotein LDL and possibly on high-density lipoprotein HDL which could adversely affect lipoprotein profiles. In addition stress and lifestyle modifications could impart more to such alterations by increase in reactive oxygen species and decrease in antioxidant levels. Biochemical alterations which are known to benefit from control of stress and emotions over the body well-being by practice of such yogic techniques include decrease in oxidative stress and increase in antioxidant levels along with bringing in a positive change in lipoprotein profiles as well. Objective To evaluate serum levels of Trans-fatty acids in Sudarshan Kriya Yoga practicing and non-Sudarshan Kriya Yoga practicing healthy participants and to compare serum levels of Oxidative stress markers in Sudarshan Kriya Yoga practicing and non-Sudarshan Kriya Yoga practicing healthy participants. Methodology A comparative study was conducted on 50 Participants from each group from Art of Living Centres Bengaluru for a duration on 2 years. Convenient sampling was done based on the interview using formulated questionnaire which included the practice and duration of Sudarshana Kriya Yoga.Results Average random blood glucose levels were comparatively higher in individuals who were not practicing Sudarshan Kriya yoga.The serum Trans fatty acids levels were significantly higher in individuals who were not practicing Sudarshan Kriya yoga.Glutathione peroxidase antioxidant levels were higher in SKY practicing individuals. Other antioxidant enzyme levels were comparable between SKY and non-SKY practicing individuals.Conclusion Study imply the beneficial effects of SKY in mitigating the damage that results from free radical generated oxidative stress.This adds to the growing database of evidence that SKY improves the antioxidant status and promotes healthy life style.
Measles Outbreak investigation in a Small Hamlet in ruralfield practice area of a Medical College- Lessons learnt in thecurrent context
Authors: K Lalitha
Published: April 2024

Background Measles outbreak was reported from a hamlet in a primary health center PHC area in the rural field practice area of a Medical College. Investigation was taken to assess various epidemiological features associated with measles outbreak and to estimate the measles immunization status among the affected.Objective the present study was conducted with the objectives of investigating the measles outbreak and assess the various epidemiological features associated with measles and to assess the measles immunization status among the affected population. Methodology Several cases of fever and rash were accidentally observed in small hamlet with 18 households under the PHC area by the interns during their regular field visit which was reported to the PHC. Following which a house-to-house survey was conducted for measles case search in the population and data was collected as per Vaccine Preventable Disease VPDndashOB002 amp 003 forms of Field guide Measles Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation.Results Fourteen out of 32 children agedlt15 years from 18 households were affected with measles overall attack rate being 43.8. Among the measles casescedil only 28.6 were vaccinated for measles. Attack rate among the unimmunized and immunized was 58.8 and 26.7 respectively the difference being statistically not significant Pgt0.05. Vaccine efficacy was low 54.7 and proportion of vaccine preventable cases were 71.4. Measles-related complications were reported in 28.6 of cases. All the children were given age-appropriate dose of vitamin-A prophylaxis and children of the nearby villages were vaccinated against measles as a part of outbreak control measures. Conclusion The present study indicates that small pockets of susceptible population will always have a threat for a larger outbreak. There is a need to strengthen routine immunization coverage by increasing the awareness level and also ensuring proper cold chain maintenance not only in public sector but also in private sector.nbspnbsp
Tackling Maternal Mortality in India – Maternal death Surveillance and Response
Authors: Deepthi R Dr.
Published: April 2024

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Prevalence of Hypertension And Its Correlates Among School Girls In Bengaluru
Authors: S Shalini , C N Shalini , N Amulya , N S Murthy
Published: April 2024

Background Tracking of blood pressure in childhood has been reported to be advantageous in that it will help in control and possibly the prevention of high blood pressure in adulthood before its harmful sequelae can occur. Due to paucity of literature on hypertension among girls this exploratory study was envisaged.Objectives To estimate the prevalence of hypertension and its correlates in urban school girls aged 6-15 years.Methodology A cross sectional study was undertaken in the selected urban girlsrsquo school in Bengaluru from February to March 2016. Socio-demographic information anthropometric measurements which included weight and height were collected. Percentiles of measurements were calculated as per Revised Indian Academy of Paediatrics 2015 growth charts. Blood pressure was measured and classified as recommended by the Fourth Report on the diagnosis evaluation and treatment of high blood pressure in children and adolescents. The students were considered hypertensive if the systolic or diastolic blood pressure or both were equal to or more than the 95th percentile for height for age and sex amp pre-hypertensive if the same was between 90th to 94thpercentiles. Children who were found to have hypertension were advised to go for follow up with a paediatrician for further management.Results Among a total of 905 girls examined the prevalence of hypertension between the ages of 6 ndash 15yrs was 15.5 n140 95 CI 13.09 ndash 17.50 and pre-hypertension was 7.7 n70 95 CI 5.92 ndash 9.47. Blood pressure was significantly higher among those with higher BMI overweight amp obese P lt0.001 and was an independent predictor as revealed through logistic regression analysis.Conclusion Pre-hypertension and hypertension is a substantial problem among school girls. A programme to screen school girls for early diagnosis of hypertension and lifestyle education would be useful to prevent future complications of hypertension. Health promotion through school health programmes would pre-empt the problem.
Awareness, Knowledge, And Perception of School Health Services among parents of school going children in Dakshina Kannada District, Karnataka.
Authors: D Saldanha Sudeep Kumar Shetty Pratap Kumar Jena Nolita , R Babu Giridhara
Published: April 2024

Background School health program initiated to promote protect and maintain the health of school children and reduce morbidity and mortality has a larger implication for the health of our future generation. Objectives To assess awareness Knowledge and perception of school health services among parents of school-going children in Dakshina Kannada District of Karnataka.Methodology This study was a community-based cross-sectional study which included responses from 336 parents of School going children. Data was collected using a semi-structured and pretested interview schedule. The questions related to awareness Knowledge and perception were categorized. Each section had a set of questions and responses.The study period was from Jan 2015 to May 2015. The study was approved from the institutional ethical committee of K. S Hegde Medical Academy.Results Respondents mean Age was 39 plusmn five years. Parental awareness on referral services was 59. More than half 52 of the respondents were having good Knowledge on deworming more than three-fifth 63 of the respondents were having good Knowledge regarding IFA. Majority of the respondents perceived health education in School 97 referral services 94 and IFA 83 physical education 99 and counselling services 85 good and useful. Multivariate analysis showed parental education above primary level OR 1.857 CI 1.116-3.096 p0.017 and employed parents OR1.915 CI 1.053-3.480 p0.033 perceive school health services to be good or useful.Conclusion Incomplete awareness among parents suggests a gap in communication between parents and school authorities. There is a low parental knowledge on various program components which may result in the differential as well as limited utilization of various services under the school health program. Involving parents in school health services is vital for higher utilization of services.
Validation of questionnaire in health research and Quality Criteria Assessment
Authors: Kunnavil Radhika
Published: April 2024

Surveys are one of the most widely used tools in research. While designing the survey one needs to be vigilant as wrong wording and poor question construction decreases the reliability of resulting data obtained from it.Though many questionnaires are being used for collecting data in research studies the metric properties of research evaluation instruments have received little attention. Main criteria for validation of questionnaire are content validity reproducibility reliability criterion validityconstruct validityresponsiveness floor and ceiling effect interpretability and linguistic and cross cultural validity.Questionnaires are widely used in health research. The questionnaire needs to be rigorously tested so as to ensure that the data collected is meaningful. While planning any research study itself one has to ensure that the tool is validated.
Screening of gestational diabetes mellitus in pregnant women in public hospitals of urban Bengaluru
Authors: Chidanand Umadevi , R Deepa , R Babu Giridhara
Published: April 2024

Background Screening and appropriate management of gestational diabetes mellitus GDM during pregnancy provide a unique opportunity to prevent type 2 diabetes. The objective of this study is to find out the proportion of GDM in the women attending public hospitals of Bengaluru and to find out the association between the socioeconomic and anthropometric factors with GDM.Methodology The study is conducted at Srirampuram Referral Hospital and Jayanagar General Hospital. Pregnant women over 14 weeks were recruited for the study and after completing 24 weeks of pregnancy they were screened for GDM with oral glucose tolerance test.Results Majority of the women were the first time expectant mothers and 16.84 were diagnosed with gestational diabetes. As per Asian BMI criteria the majority of the GDM respondents were obese 38.7 and the majority of the non-GDM respondents were pre-obese 35.29. A significant association was seen between BMI and GDM p value 0.01.Conclusion Women with GDM are at an increased risk for adverse obstetric and Perinatal outcomes. With effective screening and management of GDM we can prevent its adverse effects on pregnancy outcome.