bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heart Failure and the Risk of Recurrent Cardiovascular Events in Patients Attending Outpatient Clinics in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Govender Romona Devi , Al-Shamsi Saif , Alnababteh Asma H. , Shah Syed M.
Published: October 2022

Background:

Heart failure (HF) prognosticates a death sentence, and despite recent advances in treatment, long-term outcomes for patients with advanced HF are very poor, with only a 50%–60% survival rate at 5 years. This is alarming for the approximately 26 million people worldwide living with HF.

Aims and Objectives:

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between HF and the risk of recurrent cardiovascular disease (CVD) events or CVD death among the national population in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted from April 2008 to September 2019 including 240 patients ≥18 years with a previous vascular event. Patient outcomes such as CVD death, the occurrence of a recurrent vascular event, or until the end of the study period, whichever occurred first.

Results:

Twenty-three patients (9.6%) had a concomitant diagnosis of HF and this doubled the risk of recurrent CVD events or death over 9 years. HF, age, lower body mass index, and atrial fibrillation were significant predictors of recurrent CVD or mortality. The mean age was 65 years and the risk of a CVD event or death increased at a rate of 3% for every increasing year of age. Patients with HF have approximately a 65% likelihood of survival at 5 years, whereas those without HF have about an 85% at 5-year survival.

Conclusion:

HF is a strong predictor of recurrent CVD events or mortality in UAE patients with established CVD. Thus, aggressive management of modifiable risk factors for vascular disease through multidisciplinary teams guides clinicians toward meticulous control of CVD risk factors to improve disease prognosis and premature death.
Acute Myocarditis and Heart Failure Associated with Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Adults
Authors: Tabatabai Sadeq , Bazargani Nooshin , Osman Hesham , Al Hashmi Jasem M.
Published: October 2022

During the current pandemic, acute coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) due to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) provokes overwhelming inflammatory response leading to a wide range of clinical presentations including, a rare multisystem inflammatory syndrome and cardiac injury. Not only during the acute phase of the disease but a delayed immunologic response to SARS-CoV-2 infection among people with hyperinflammatory illness several weeks postacute phase of the infection is recently recognized. We report a young adult male who presented with acute myocarditis and heart failure associated with laboratory evidence of hyperinflammatory syndrome 5 weeks after a full recovery from COVID-19 infection. We believe that health-care providers need to be aware and recognize this syndrome as a rare sequela of COVID-19 infection.
Real-World Experience with a 60-mm-Long Stent in the Setting of Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Thevan Babu , Abdulrahman Abdulkarim , Subbramaniyam Suddharsan , Chachar Tarique Shahzad , Yousif Nooraldaem , Noor Husam A. , Amin Haitham , Abdulqader Fuad , Shivappa Sadananda
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) represents a timely procedure that requires speedy revascularization. Moreover, PPCI in diffuse coronary lesions remains to be challenging even in the hands of experienced operators as the use of a long stent may increase the difficulty of the procedure in terms of stent delivery, deployment, and optimization. However, the practicability and clinical outcomes of deployment of a 60-mm-long stent in the setting of PPCI remain to be determined.

Methods:

The study is a retrospective observational analysis in a prospective cohort. The prospectively gathered data of consecutive patients from June 2016 to December 2019, who underwent PPCI with BioMime sirolimus-eluting stents 2.5–3.0/60 mm or 3.0–3.5/60 mm were analyzed at 1 year regarding the primary outcome of major adverse cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events (MACCE) and target lesion revascularization (TLR).

Results:

A total of 88 cases were included in the study; 23 cases underwent PPCI, whereas 65 underwent nonPPCI. The PPCI group had a mean age of 65.7 ± 10.9 years compared with 63.3 ± 9.6 years (P = 0.34) in the nonPPCI group. Eighty-three percentage of PPCI were males compared with 94% of their nonPPCI counterparts (P = 0.20). In addition, the prevalence of hypertension was more common in the PPCI group (87% vs. 63%, P = 0.03). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding other comorbidities. The most common culprit vessel was the left anterior descending artery (57%) in the PPCI group and the right coronary artery (58%) in the nonPPCI. The use of a stent with a diameter of 2.5–3.0 mm was more common in both groups (61% in PPCI vs. 66% in nonPPCI, P = 0.8). MACCE occurred in four patients during a year of follow-up. One occurred in the PPCI group (4%) compared with three in the nonPPCI group (5%) (P = 1.00). TLR was required in two cases, one in each group (4% vs. 2%, P = 0.46).

Conclusion:

The use of a 60-mm-long stent in the setting of PPCI has an excellent 12-month outcome in procedural success, MACCE, and TLR. Large randomized studies are required to confirm these results.
The Dilemma of Repeat In-Stent Restenosis
Authors: Ibrahem Abdalazeem , Shahid Farhan , Elzein Hind , Ahmed Javed M.
Published: October 2022

In-stent restenosis (ISR) has always been considered a conundrum for interventional cardiologists. Despite many technical advances in the past 20 years aimed at reducing its occurrence, this area of interventional cardiology remains challenging. Here, we present a novel use of intravascular lithotripsy therapy (IVL) in a patient with repeat ISR, in whom IVL treatment has provided excellent procedural and follow-up results. Here, we present a 79-year-old man with previous ISR to a left circumflex artery (LCX) stent presenting with angina. An elective coronary angiogram confirmed recurrent ISR in the LCX. This was treated by IVL, which provided an excellent procedural result. The patient made an uneventful recovery and was discharged the same day with a follow-up 90 days postprocedure, at which point they were asymptomatic from angina. IVL is a relatively simple technique to modify ISR with a short learning curve. This case presentation highlights a novel use of IVL in a subclass of patients that remains challenging for the interventional cardiology community.
Effects of COVID-19 on STEMI Patients
Authors: Abuzeyad Feras H. , Chomayil Yasser , Amin Mohammad Ibrahim , Farooq Moonis , Alshaban Mahmood , Kamkoun Wael , Nair Sujith , Alqasem Leena , Makwana Daya Ram , Das Priya
Published: October 2022

Aim:

The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the volume of ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients and also to assess changes in patient characteristics, door-in-to-door-out (DIDO) time, door-to-balloon time (D2B) time, and STEMI outcomes during the pandemic.

Methods:

Patient data were retrieved retrospectively from the electronic medical record system of King Hamad University Hospital and Mohammed Bin Khalifa Cardiac Centre in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Data were compared and analyzed for the two time periods: before the pandemic (January 2019–March 2020) and during the pandemic (April 2020June 2021).

Results:

There was a decline of 11.1% in patients who presented with STEMI during the pandemic. There were no major differences between the patient demographics and the baseline characteristics during the two study periods. Recommended DIDO time and D2B time could be achieved only for 7.1% and 35.7% of all STEMI cases during the pandemic. However, no significant differences were noted in the 30 days of mortality, reinfarction, cardiogenic shock, hospital length of stay, and return to the hospital within 30 days for the STEMI patients in the two time periods.

Conclusions:

There was a decline in patients who presented with STEMI during the pandemic. This was also associated with a lower number of STEMI cases achieving the recommended DIDO time and D2B time as compared to the prepandemic period. However, there was no significant difference in the patient outcomes in the two time periods.
The mRNA-Based Coronavirus Disease-2019 Vaccine-induced Severe Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Jamil Afshan , Cullinane Ross , Agahi Afshin , Paymard Mohammad
Published: October 2022

We are presenting a case of severe dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) post-mRNA-based coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) vaccine (Pfizer-BioNTech) in a young healthy man. After the second dose of the vaccine, his health rapidly declined, and he developed severe DCM with reduced ejection fraction. Investigations for other causes of DCM were unremarkable. Severe DCM following COVID-19 vaccine injection is a rare but serious condition. It also highlights the importance of close follow-up of pericarditis and perimyocarditis cases post-COVID-19 vaccine and we recommend clinicians have a low threshold for using echocardiography for early diagnosis and management.
Percutaneous Transvenous Balloon Mitral Commissurotomy
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf , Mohammed Nazar , Rahhal Alaa , Alzaeem Hakam Abdallah , Maaly Cheikh Abdoul , Mousa Tariq , Al Asmi Shabib , Bitar Basel , Al-Kindi Fahad , Arafa Salaheddin Omran , Al-Qahtani Awad , Al-Hijji Mohammed
Published: October 2022

Background:

Rheumatic heart disease and its impact on cardiac health is still a concern in developing countries. Percutaneous trans-mitral commissurotomy (PTMC) is the standard of care in managing severe rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS). This article reports a single-center, 10-year real-world experience in Qatar.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we reviewed all the patients who underwent PTMC in Qatar between January 1, 2012, and January 1, 2022. Periprocedural data were collected at baseline, postprocedural, 1 year, and during the last follow-up. The primary outcome was procedural success (improvement in valve area by 50%, final valve area >1.5 cm2, and freedom from > moderate mitral regurgitation, stroke, or pericardial effusion). Safety endpoints were freedom from death, periprocedural cardiogenic shock and cardiac arrest, stroke urgent mitral valve replacement (MVR), or pericardiocentesis. Long-term outcomes included the requirement of redo PTMC or MVR, in addition to rehospitalization due to arrhythmias, heart failure, or stroke.

Results:

Sixty-five patients were included in the review (age 42 ± 10, female 38 [58.5%]). Sixty-two patients (95.4%) had a successful procedure. One patient developed a hemorrhagic pericardial tamponade and cardiogenic shock, for which he underwent pericardiocentesis and emergency aortic root repair. One patient developed acute stroke 8 h after the procedure, and one patient had tamponade resolved with emergency pericardiocentesis. Two patients required MVR after 1 and 4 years, respectively.

Conclusion:

PTMC is the mainstay of rheumatic MS management in patients with suitable anatomy as most patients have excellent outcomes with long-term freedom from surgery, which has been the case in our single-center experience.
Use of Reference Management Software Among Allopathy, Ayurveda, and Homeopathy Practices
Authors: Barman Ellora , Barman Bhupen , Nune Arvind , Nongpiur Arvind
Published: October 2022

Background:

Reference management software (RMS) enable researchers to organize and manage large number of references that are typically identified during the publication of research articles.

Aims and Objectives:

The purpose of our study was to determine the extent to which faculties from allopathy, homeopathy, and Ayurveda use RMS for their academic pursuits and to identify which methods are used most frequently.

Methods:

The survey was circulated among the faculties of three different disciplines of the health-care system to collect respondent demographic details and questionnaire responses. Data distribution and variable type were used to perform descriptive analysis.

Results:

The data from 114/150 respondents were analyzed. Of the 114 faculties who responded to our survey, 72 (63%) reported using RMS to publish their articles. Knowledge of how to use RMS software is common in allopathic faculties (40%), followed by homeopathy (14%) and Ayurveda (9%). Zotero (41%) is the most popular RMS software among users, followed by Mendeley (31%) and Endnote (12%).

Conclusion:

Despite being underreported, RMS software is frequently used for the needs of authors from various disciplines in the health-care system.
A Study of Clinical and Etiological Profile in Elderly Individuals Presenting to a Tertiary Care Center of South India with Altered Mental Status
Authors: Kulkarni Naveen , Najfi Nahil , Bullappa Asha
Published: October 2022

Background and Objectives:

Altered mental status (AMS) is a challenging diagnosis in elderly patients and has a wide range of etiologies. The aim of this study was to know the clinical and etiological profile in the elderly, so that physicians will be better aware of AMS backgrounds and reducing morbidity and mortality rates among the patients.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective observational study conducted at the emergency department (ED) and medical intensive care unit (MICU) of a tertiary care hospital in South India from November 1, 2019, to October 31, 2020. Patients aged 65 years and older who presented to the ED and MICU with AMS were included in this study. They were evaluated clinically and necessary investigations were done to know the etiologies.

Results:

Among 100 elderly patients, 64% belonged to young old (age group of 65–74 years), 30% belonged to old (age group of 75–84 years), and 6% belonged to oldest old (>85 years). Sixty-one percent were male and 39% were female. The most common cause for AMS in elderly was primary neurological cause (40%, cerebrovascular accident was most common cause). The other causes were metabolic encephalopathy (29%, hyponatremia being most common) followed by multifactorial causes (24%). Infections and hypertensive encephalopathy were noted in 6% and 1% respectively. The common comorbidities found were hypertension (71%) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (50%), and 28% had diabetes mellitus and hypertension, whereas 25% had multiple comorbidities.

Conclusion:

The elderly patients who present with AMS must be screened for the above etiologies. This study helps the physicians to have an idea regarding common causes of AMS in elderly patients at presentation, hence appropriate management approach thus helps in reducing morbidity and mortality.
A Review of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Frailty in Older Adults
Authors: Soni Nidhi , Gunasekaran Venugopalan
Published: October 2022

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common respiratory disease in older adults. The increasing prevalence and disease burden in older adults comes with added challenges of coexisting disease condition. Frailty is an important geriatric syndrome associated with worse clinical outcomes in older adults. COPD and frailty share many common and interrelated risk factors, the presence of one condition worsening the course of other and vice versa. It is important to understand their relation, which can help in management. The continued and supervised pulmonary rehabilitation program has a vital role in the management of COPD and frail patients, providing a better quality of life.
Adaptation Needs and Concerns of Senior Citizens Living in Old Age Homes
Authors: Mathai Aleena , Antony Sojan , Sivakumar P. T.
Published: October 2022

Context:

Adaptation needs of senior citizens are not well explored in research, especially among people living in old age homes situated in developing countries like India.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to understand the needs and concerns of senior citizens living in old age homes and its effect on their adaptation.

Subjects and Methods:

Using the purposive sampling method, fifteen residents of an old age home and their three caregivers were interviewed to describe their views and experiences. The tools used were the Montreal Cognitive Assessment and an in-depth interview schedule.

Statistical Analysis:

Qualitative data were analyzed using Atlas ti. 7 for identifying major themes and subthemes.

Results:

The results showed that the major needs and concerns of senior citizens were unmet medical needs, difficulty to handle negative attitudes of staff, difficulty to adapt with new environment and culture, and emotional issues.

Conclusion:

Findings indicate the importance of addressing the adaptation needs of the elderly living in old age homes.
Neutralizing Antibody Response to COVID Vaccination among the Young and the Elderly
Authors: Kathiravan S. , Ananthi B. , Deepa S. , Krishnaswamy B.
Published: October 2022

Objective:

The objective of the study was to assess the levels of neutralizing antibody after COVID vaccination in the elderly and compare it with that of the younger persons. The study also aimed at determining the association between the age, sex, and comorbidities and levels of neutralizing antibodies in the young and the old.

Subjects and Methods:

This was a single-center, cross-sectional, analytical study, conducted in the General Medicine Unit of ACS Medical College, Chennai, from August 2021 to October 2021. Forty-five elderly persons aged 60 years and above and 103 young adults aged 18 years and above and <60 years who were vaccinated with either COVISHIELD or COVAXIN were randomly selected to participate in this study. A detailed history regarding vaccination status, vaccination type, comorbidities, and breakthrough infection was obtained. Blood samples were collected from the participants to analyze the levels of neutralizing antibodies developed after COVID vaccination.

Results:

The mean age of the older participants was 66.13 ± 5.3 years and the mean age of the younger participants was 36.48 ± 10.9 years. The median level of neutralizing antibody in the younger participants was 97.4% (interquartile range [IQR]: 96.4%–98.0%) and in the older participants was 97.1% (IQR: 93.1%–97.6%). There was a significant difference in the neutralizing antibody level between the younger and the older participants (P = 0.033). There was no significant difference in the neutralizing antibody levels after two doses of either of the two vaccines among both the groups of participants. There was no significant association between the neutralizing antibody titer and sex and comorbidities in both the groups of participants. Five young and two old participants had breakthrough infections after vaccination. The antibody level was higher in persons with breakthrough infection than in those with no breakthrough infection in both the study groups.

Conclusion:

There was a significant difference in the neutralizing antibody level between the younger and the older participants after COVID vaccination. No significant difference existed in neutralizing antibody response with respect to the type of vaccine in both the study groups. There was no significant association between sex, comorbid status, and neutralizing antibody levels in both the groups.
White Matter Hyperintensities on Magnetic Resonance Imaging among Elderly Depressed Patients and its Association with the Severity of Depression and Cognition
Authors: Soni Ajitabh , Soni Ravi , Soni Priyanka
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Depression in the elderly can have a different pathophysiology and clinical profile, and studies have shown pathological changes in the brain on radio imaging. The present study aimed to find out the association of white matter hyperintensities (WMH) on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with the severity of illness and cognition in elderly depressed patients.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study included 68 elderly (>60 years of age) depressed patients who had undergone MRI at a tertiary care center, and based on the severity of WMH, they were divided into two groups: no or slight WMH group and moderate or severe WMH group. The severity of depression was assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) scale, and neuropsychological assessments were made for testing attention, concentration and executive function.

Results:

HAM-D scores were found significantly higher in patients with moderate-to-severe WMH groups (22.6 ± 5.2) compared to those with no or slight WMH (16.3 ± 4.2). The cognitive performance evaluated by backward digit span test, Trail making Test A and B, and Color Stroop test was significantly poor in the moderate-to-severe WMH group.

Conclusion:

Elderly depressed patients having a greater WMH had more severe depression and poor cognitive performance, especially psychomotor and executive functioning. WMH could be a potential marker for the severity of illness and cognition in depression in elderly persons.
Effect of Gender on the Quality of Life among Elderly Population
Authors: Rexwal Yashvi , Chawla Gurjeet Kaur
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

The twenty-first century has shown a boost in the geriatric population. Looking at the trends, this group of population is expected to outnumber the other population groups, therefore has become one of the focus points for researchers these days. As the age of an individual increase, due to slowed metabolism and other biological reasons, the physical activity levels and body functioning tends to get affected, thereby also affecting their motor skills. This age group is also an age group which tends to face changes in psychological conditions. The kind of environment which they live in and their social status are also one of contributing factors to such changes in their lives and also how their perception of life and quality of life (QOL). Maintaining a good QOL has therefore become an important issue in the geriatric population so that they can lead a better life until senescence. QOL according to the World Health Organization depends on different factors and has been measured through four domains. The four domains include the physical state, psychological domain, social domain, and environmental domain.

Aim:

This article aims at studying the effect of the gender of an individual on the QOL, and what steps can be taken to improve the perception of life among the population by improvements in the QOL by assessing all the four domains of a group of 100 individuals, both male and female of 60 years and above through online survey.

Materials and Methods:

A standardized questionnaire developed by the WHO was adopted to measure the scores obtained by both males and females in the different domains. Data obtained through this survey were tested and validated, and a comparison between the QOL scores of males and females was done using appropriate statistical tests.

Results:

Results showed no significant difference in the scores of males and females.

Conclusion:

It was concluded that the gender of an individual does not influence the QOL.
Antrochoanal Polyp Among Elderly Age Group
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar , Dubey Debasmita , Lenka Smarita
Published: October 2022

Background:

Antrochoanal polyps (ACPs) are benign polypoidal mass originating from the maxillary sinus and they extend into the choana. The etiopathogenesis of ACP is not clear. These are found more commonly in children and young adults. ACP is almost always unilateral and common symptoms include nasal obstruction and nasal discharge. These lesions are extremely rare in the older adult age group.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective study of 14 cases of ACPs managed between June 2017 and July 2022. Detailed clinical presentations, investigations, and treatment with surgical interventions for ACPs were studied.

Results:

Out of 14 cases of older adult patients with ACPs, there are 8 (57.14%) cases with a polyp on the left side and 6 (42.85%) cases on the right side of the nasal cavity. The most common symptom was constant and unilateral nasal obstruction in 12 (85.71%) patients, followed by purulent nasal discharge in 7 (50%) cases, clear rhinorrhea in 5 (35.71%) cases, facial pain in 4 (28.57%) cases, snoring in 3 (21.42%) cases, sneezing in 3 (21.42%) cases, and halitosis in 2 (14.28%) cases.

Conclusion:

ACPs are uncommon in the older adult age group. Diagnostic nasal endoscopy and computed tomography scans are important tools for the diagnosis of ACP. Functional endoscopic sinus surgery and power instrumentation are helpful for the complete removal of ACPs and are considered extremely safe procedures. Clinicians and otolaryngologists are often not aware of the prevalence of ACPs among the older adult age group.
Labial Fusion
Authors: Gupta Prashant , Sachan Ankit , Singh Prabhjot , Nayak Brusabhanu
Published: October 2022

Lower urinary tract symptoms in females can be due to various factors. Most of the time it is due to simple urinary tract infection and lower urinary tract pathology such as urethral stricture, meatal stenosis, bladder stones, underactive detrusor, and primary bladder neck obstruction. Commonly found neurologic causes among females are detrusor–external sphincter dyssynergia, associated with various brain and spine diseases and diabetic neuropathy. Labial fusion is a rare cause of female voiding difficulty. We herein present two elderly postmenopausal diabetic female patients who had nearly total urethral occlusion due to labial fusion. After thorough history taking and local genitourinary examination, the patients were operated. Treatment included surgical correction followed by the local application of 1% estrogen ointment. Both patients were symptom-free after the procedure. Thus, with a correct diagnosis followed by simple operative procedure, we can treat such patients successfully.
An Observational Comparative Study of Weekly and 3 Weekly Concurrent Cisplatin-Based Chemoradiotherapy in Locally Advanced Head-and-Neck Cancer in a Peripheral Medical College
Authors: Biswas Ritika , Bandyopadhyay Rajat , Saren Sanghamitra , Banerjee Suparna
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

Concurrent chemo-radiation with 100m/m² three weekly cisplatin is the standard of care in inoperable locally advanced head and neck cancer (LAHNC) but is associated with significant toxicities. The objective of the study was to assess the tumour response and toxicities in the three weekly and lower dose weekly cisplatin based chemo radiation regimens.

Methodology:

The prospective study was conducted in a peripheral medical college from May 2020 to July 2021. One hundred and twelve patients were recruited, 56 in each arm. The three weekly arms received 100mg/m2 cisplatin whereas the weekly arm received weekly 40mg/m2 cisplatin both concurrently with radiation dose of 70 Gray in 35 fractions over seven weeks. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare means of three or more samples for numerical data. Unpaired proportions were compared by Chi-square test or Fischer’s exact test.

Results:

One hundred patients completed the study and were evaluable, 42 in the three weekly arm and 48 in the weekly arm. Disease response at 12 months in the two arms was not statistically significant. The toxicities were lower in weekly arm as compared to three weekly arms but were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The study confirms that weekly concurrent cisplatin is an acceptable alternative treatment to three weekly regimens in inoperable LAHNC. The lower dose weekly concurrent cisplatin regime is better tolerated in our patients with increased treatment compliance.
Socioeconomic Determinants of Smokeless Tobacco Use among Indian Women
Authors: Ghate Neeta , Kumar Pradeep , Dhillon Preeti
Published: October 2022

Introduction:

The predominant form of tobacco consumption among women from many Asian countries, including India, is smokeless tobacco (SLT). The present study aimed to assess the prevalence and socioeconomic determinants of SLT use among Indian women.

Methodology:

The study used data from the Global Adult Tobacco Survey-2, India, conducted during 2016-2017, with a sample size of 40,265 women aged 15 years and above. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression were applied with the current use of SLT as the dependent variable to find the sociodemographic factors associated with it.

Results:

Overall, 12.8% (95% confidence interval [CI]; 12.4–13.1) of all women and 7.4% (CI: 6.0–8.8) of pregnant women reported SLT use. Its use was higher among women >50 years (23.1%, CI: 22.2–23.8), and those from northeast India (34.9%, CI: 33.8–36.0). Adjusted odds of using SLT were higher among older women (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 5.8, CI: 4.5–7.3), women from rural areas (AOR: 1.5, CI: 1.4–1.7), and women belonging to scheduled tribe (AOR: 2.4, CI: 2.2–2.7) as compared to their counterparts. In addition, poor (AOR: 2.6; 95% CI, 2.4–2.8) and middle class (AOR: 1.8; 95% CI, 1.7–2.0) women were more likely to use SLT compared to their rich counterparts. The use of SLT within 30 min of waking up in the morning was seen in 57.2 percent of women users. SLT prevalence was highest among Mizo-speaking women (46.1%, CI: 42.6-49.6), followed by Manipuri (38.9%, CI: 35.5-42.2), Odiya (34.4%), and Khasi (34%, CI: 29.8-38.2).

Conclusions:

There is an imperative need for women-centric schemes on SLT cessation, with special attention to older women, pregnant women, from rural areas, poor households, and the north-eastern region of India.
Antecedents of Self-Protective Behavior during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh
Authors: Khanam Liza , Sorwar Golam , Mahfuz Mohammad Abdullah
Published: October 2022

Context:

Self-protective behavior (SPB) plays a significant role in controlling the spread of infection of a pandemic like coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Little research has been conducted to examine critical factors influencing SPB, especially in a developing country like Bangladesh.

Aims:

This study aimed to develop and test a theoretical model based on the extended information–motivation–behavior (IMB) skills model to investigate factors associated with SPB among Bangladeshi people.

Methods:

An online, cross-sectional survey was conducted on Bangladesh citizens (18 years and older) from June 1 and July 31, 2020. A total of 459 responses were used to assess the proposed model's overall fit and test the hypothesized relationships among the model constructs.

Statistical Analysis Used:

The data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling to identify relationships among model variables.

Results:

Health information-seeking behavior, health motivation, self-efficacy, and health consciousness (HC) (P < 0.05) had a significant impact on SPB among Bangladeshi people. The results identified the consequences of various degrees of HC on SPB in the COVID-19 outbreak.

Conclusions:

This study confirms the IMB model's applicability for analyzing SPB among people in developing countries like Bangladesh. The findings of this study could guide policymakers to develop and implement targeted strategies to ensure timely and transparent information for motivating people to improve SPB during the COVID-19 and in case of a future outbreak of an epidemic.
Improving Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Complementary Feeding Using Practical Intervention Training for Parents Living in Central Lombok, Indonesia
Authors: Tengkawan Jeslyn , Septisari Ayu Anandhika , Ihyauddin Zulfikar , Karuniawaty Titi Pambudi , Nurbaiti Lina , Dewi Nurhandini Eka , Sekartini Rini
Published: October 2022

Background:

Stunting remains a major public health concern in Indonesia despite many interventions. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of interventions in the form of education and demonstration on preparing complementary feeding (CF) to increase knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of CF among parents living in villages with high stunting prevalence in Central Lombok, Indonesia.

Materials and Methods:

This is a quasi-experimental community-based study, conducted from June to August 2019. Three villages were divided into three groups, i.e., control group (CG), education alone (EA) group, and education-cum-demonstration (ED) group. We assessed KAP before and after intervention with a 4-week interval.

Results:

A total of 205 participants were enrolled in this study, consisting of 67, 70, and 68 participants in the CG, EA, and ED groups, respectively. In within-group analysis, parents' attitudes (P = 0.015) and practices (P = 0.014) improved in the ED group while only parents' practices (P = 0.034) improved in the EA group. In between-group analysis, parental attitude (P = 0.039) and practices (P = 0.008) improved in the ED group when compared to the CG. In the EA group, only parents' practices improved when compared to the CG (P = 0.006). There was no significant difference in KAP score in the EA and ED groups.

Conclusion:

A combined approach of education and demonstration works better to promote healthy CF practices among mothers.
Socioeconomic Difference in Physical Activity in Children and their Parents
Authors: Amini-Rarani Mostafa , Heshmat Ramin , Djalalinia Shirin , Motlagh Mohammad Esmaeil , Ziaodini Hasan , Atoofi Mehrdad Kazemzadeh , Shafiee Gita , Qorbani Mostafa , Asayesh Hamid , Taheri Majzoubeh , Raeisi Alireza , Kelishadi Roya
Published: October 2022

Background:

As a health-related behavior, physical activity (PA) differs according to individual's socioeconomic status (SES). This study aimed to assess the socioeconomic difference in leisure-time PA among Iranian students and their parents at national and regional levels.

Study Design:

Nationwide cross-sectional study.

Methods:

This study was conducted as part of a national survey conducted in 2015 among 14400 Iranian students and their parents. Total PA level was measured as the average hours spent on PA per week. Nonlinear principal component analysis was used to construct the households' SES based on household's assets, type of house ownership, occupation of fathers and the educational levels of fathers and mothers. Concentration index was applied to measure the inequality in the PA level in parents and students.

Results:

Complete data of 13313 students and their parents were available. At the national level, students spent more hours of PA per week (3.753 h per week [h/w]) as compared to their parents. Moreover, PA h/w was higher in fathers (3.488 h/w) as compared to mothers (2.763 h/w). The lowest means of mother's and student's PA were found in the highest SES region. At national level, the concentration indices (CI) of father's and mother's PA were −0.050 (95% CI = −0.067 ~ −0.030) and −0.028 (95% CI = −0.044 ~ −0.012), respectively, indicating pro-poor inequality, but the CI value of student PA was non-significant (CI = −0.007, 95% CI = −0.023–0.008).

Conclusions:

Given that the mother's and student's PA level was low in the high SES regions, it is suggested that focused PA planning may further increase the level of PA across higher SES regions and might be effective in reducing the PA inequality.
On curvature and the bilinear multiplier problem
Authors: Gautam S. Zubin
Published: October 2022

We provide sufficient normal curvature conditions on the boundary of a domain

D \subset \mathbb{R}^4

to guarantee unboundedness of the bilinear Fourier multiplier operator

\mathrm{T}_D

with symbol

\chi_D

outside the local

L^2

setting, i.e., from

L^{p_1} ( \mathbb{R}^2) \times L^{p_2} ( \mathbb{R}^2) \rightarrow L^{p_3'} ( \mathbb{R}^2)

with

\sum \frac{1}{p_j} = 1

and

p_j <2

for some

j

. In particular, these curvature conditions are satisfied by any domain

D

that is locally strictly convex at a single boundary point.
Groups which are not properly 3-realizable
Authors: Funar Louis , Lasheras Francisco F. , Repovš Dušan D.
Published: October 2022

A group is properly 3-realizable if it is the fundamental group of a compact polyhedron whose universal covering is proper homotopically equivalent to some 3-manifold. We prove that when such a group is also quasi-simply filtered then it has
pro-
(
finitely generated free
)
fundamental group at infinity
and
semi-stable ends
. Conjecturally the quasi-simply filtration assumption is superfluous. Using these restrictions we provide the first examples of finitely presented groups which are not properly 3-realizable, for instance large families of Coxeter groups.
Application of a joint latent space item response model to clustering stressful life events and the Beck Depression Inventory-II: results from Korean epidemiological survey data
Authors: Kim Hyun Joo , Jeon Ye Jin , Kim Hyeon Chang , Jin Ick Hoon , Jung Sun Jae
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES: According to previous findings, stressful life events (SLEs) and their subtypes are associated with depressive symptoms. However, few studies have explored potential models for these events and incidental symptoms of depression.METHODS: Participants (3,966 men; 5,709 women) were recruited from the Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases Etiology Research Center cohort. SLEs were measured using a 47-item Life Experiences Survey (LES) with a standardized protocol. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II). Joint latent space item response models were applied by gender and age group (<50 vs. ≥50 years old).RESULTS: Among the LES items, death or illness of close relatives, legal problems, sexual difficulties, family relationships, and social relationships shared latent positions with major depressive symptoms regardless of gender or age. We also observed a gender-specific domain: occupational and family-related items.CONCLUSIONS: By projecting LES and BDI-II data onto the same interaction map for each subgroup, we could specify the associations between specific LES items and depressive symptoms.
Simultaneous detection of Lead and Cadmium using a composite of Zeolite Imidazole Framework and Reduced Graphene Oxide (ZIF-67/rGO) via electrochemical approach
Authors: Garg Naini , Deep Akash , Sharma Amit L
Published: October 2022

Present work reports the application of a composite of ZIF-67/rGO for the simultaneous detection of traces of lead and cadmium via square wave anodic stripping voltammetry (SWASV) technique. For this, graffoil sheets were modified with synthesized composite for the electrode fabrication [(ZIF-67/rGO)/Graffoil] for its use in sensing studies. The SWASV response of (ZIF-67/rGO)/Graffoil electrode was optimized against deposition potential (-1.0 V) and time (350 s), required for the accumulation of metal ions onto the sensor electrode. The performance of the sensing electrode was then evaluated for lead (Pb2+) and cadmium (Cd2+) ions at various concentrations. The sensor displayed linear response in a wide concentration range of 5-100 ppb. The peak current of the electrode was found to be shifted towards the higher potential at higher metal ion concentrations. Based on the response measured, the limit of detection (LOD) of the fabricated sensor has been estimated and found to be 5 and 2.93 ppb for Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions, respectively. The results obtained revealed good specificity of the proposed sensor towards Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions in the co-presence of several other ions. In addition, the sensor exhibited good reproducibility with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of ~2% for both Pb2+ and Cd2+ ions.
Do Hormonal Disorders Contribute to the Pathology of Hereditary Angioedema?
Authors: AYTEKİN Gökhan , OZER Hakan , BALOĞLU İsmail , ÇÖLKESEN Fatih , YILDIZ Eray , ARSLAN Şevket , ÇALIŞKANER Ahmet
Published: October 2022

Objective: Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of angioedema without urticaria or pruritus. In this study, we compared the levels of anabolic hormones, such as insulin, insulin-like growth factor, growth hormone, and thyroid hormones (thyroid-stimulating hormone [TSH], triiodothyronine [T3], and thyroxine [T4]), and the levels of hormones that are considered catabolic, such as adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol, between HAE patients and controls. We also discuss the contribution of these hormones to the pathophysiology of HAE.

Methods: The study included 18 patients (9 diagnosed with HAE type 1 and 9 with HAE type 2) who were followed in the immunology and allergy clinic between January 2013 and January 2020. The control group comprised 28 age- and gender-matched subjects.

Results: The HAE type 1, HAE type 2, and control groups showed no significant differences in insulin, insulin-like growth factor, ACTH, cortisol, TSH, or T4 levels. The C-peptide and T3 levels were significantly different between the groups (p = 0.011 and p = 0.027, respectively) (Table 3). Post-hoc pairwise comparison revealed no significant difference in C-peptide level among the groups, but a significant difference in the T3 level was detected between HAE type 1 patients and controls (p = 0.029)

Conclusions: Although no significant differences were observed in other anabolic hormone levels between the controls and HAE patients, T3 levels were significantly lower in type 1 HAE patients. Close monitoring of low T3 levels is required, particularly in patients with type 1 HAE.
Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Kinerja Perusahaan Dimoderasi Oleh Financial Technology
Authors: R. Irmawati H. , Majid Jamaluddin , Suhartono Suhartono
Published: October 2022

This study analyzes the effect of financial inclusion, financial literacy, and financial behavior on company performance using financial technology as a moderating variable. This study uses quantitative methods. The population in this study is medium-sized businesses in Makassar City. Sampling using purposive sampling in order to obtain a sample of 53. The data of this study is primary data extracted from respondents who have implemented financial technology through questionnaires. Data were analyzed using multiple linear regression techniques and moderate regression analysis (MRA). The study's multiple linear regression results indicate that financial literacy has a significant positive effect on company performance. Financial inclusion and financial behavior do not affect company performance. The MRA results show that financial technology does not moderate the effect of financial inclusion, financial literacy, and financial behavior on company performance. However, the use of financial technology is more appropriate as a predictor. This research contributes as input for relevant agencies to pay special attention to the development of company performance and becomes a facilitator for medium-sized businesses in improving their understanding of financial aspects.
Efecto de un programa de realidad virtual para mejorar la estabilidad de tronco en lanzadores de bala y jabalina paralímpicos. Un estudio de casos
Authors: Perez-Trejos Luz Edith , Gómez Salazar Lessby , Ortiz Muñoz Daniela , Arango-Hoyos Gloria-Patricia
Published: October 2022

Introducción: El deporte paralímpico se originó como parte de procesos de rehabilitación para personas que tuvieran discapacidad. Durante la ejecución de las disciplinas paralímpicas el control motor en la región del tronco y en especial del abdomen es de gran importancia para prevenir lesiones y mejorar el registro de la marca deportiva. Son muchas las herramientas utilizadas por los entrenadores deportivos para mejorar la fuerza muscular y por consiguiente la estabilidad de tronco, buscando disminuir el riesgo en el ámbito deportivo. Sin embargo, las investigaciones sobre el uso de realidad virtual, junto con plataformas de estabilometría para el entrenamiento de deportistas paralímpicos con lesiones físicas, son escasos.
Objetivo: Establecer el efecto de un programa de entrenamiento del tronco apoyado en realidad virtual en deportistas de alto rendimiento paralímpicos, lanzadores de bala y jabalina con lesiones físicas y que compiten en sillas de lanzamiento.
Materiales y método: La investigación fue diseñada como un estudio cuasiexperimental intrasujeto. Se evaluaron cinco sujetos deportistas paralímpicos de alto rendimiento con discapacidad física. Se empleó un software de realidad virtual que incluye patrones y juegos lúdicos ajustables en tiempo e intensidad y una plataforma de bipedestación dinámico como parte del equipo de intervención, ajustable al paciente, que permite reeducar el equilibrio, la propiocepción, fortalecer y lograr el control del tronco. Las variables de análisis fueron el nivel del desplazamiento anteroposterior y lateral del tronco y los cambios en el volumen de acción. Se realizó una evaluación inicial, una intervención que duró de seis semanas y la evaluación final.
Resultados: En las evaluaciones iniciales de todos los atletas se observó una tendencia al desplazamiento en sentido posterior. En la evaluación final, los rangos de desplazamiento aumentan en casi todos los sujetos con excepción del sujeto 5, cuyos valores permanecen casi estables tanto en las evaluaciones iniciales como las finales. La diferencia en el desplazamiento entre la prueba inicial y final en promedio de los participantes fue de 6.26 grados.
Conclusiones: los resultados positivos del entrenamiento del tronco apoyado en realidad virtual para los participantes constituyen un aporte al conocimiento sobre el tema y abren la posibilidad de incluir esta tecnología en protocolos de entrenamiento en deporte paralímpico.
Variations in Gonadosomatic Index, Gonadal Development and Spawning Induction of Spotted Scat Scatophagus argus (Linnaeus, 1766)
Authors: Nguyen Huy V. , Duc Nghia V. , Nguyen Son K.H.
Published: October 2022

This study evaluated variations in gonadosomatic index (GSI), gonadal development stages, and hormonal spawning induction of Scatophagus argus in captivity. Male and female fish were cultured separately in net cages in Tam Giang lagoon, Central Vietnam, from January to December 2020. Five fish of each sex were randomly sampled monthly. Gonads were collected, GSI determined, and subsequently prepared for histology. Gamete quality was assessed with a light microscope. Spawning was hormonally induced with different doses of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and luteinizing hormone-release hormone (LHRH-A2). Gonadal development started to increase in March, peaking in July. The peak spawning period of the fish was from June to August, displaying the highest GSI value, sperm motility, and oocyte diameter. Only female GSI fluctuated significantly month-by-month (P<0.05). Histological examination indicated that S. argus is a multiple-spawner. Application of LHRH-A2 (70 µg/kg) stimulated spawning and resulted in better latency periods, fertilization, and hatching rates.
Stored Carbon FMU Lawu Manunggal Using a Biomass Approach in the Community Forest in Sidomulyo Village, Magetan Regency, Indonesia
Authors: Lukito Martin , Rohmatiah Ahadiati
Published: October 2022

Community forests provide real benefits, especially the economic value of communities around the forest, and a real contribution to environmental services. One of the benefits of forests is vital for the survival of living things because it has a role in regulating the micro and macro climate. On the other hand, forest destruction can cause climate instability. Sustainable management of community forests has become a necessity due to global economic and political changes. Sustainable Forest Management is a manifestation of the concept of sustainable forestry development. The research aims to calculate the standing potential of Sidomulyo Village FMU Lawu Manunggal, Magetan Regency, the ability of the forest to produce biomass, carbon content, and the ability to absorb C02 content including allometric estimation models through inventory activities for potential by using the method Destructive sampling of the sample of tree species to be measured biomass, stored carbon and carbon dioxide uptake. The results showed the average stand potential was 10,340 m3/ha, or a total volume of 1,046,402 m3, the highest for the Melia azedarach species, at 4,468 m3/Ha. The average forest biomass content per ha is 28,379 tons or a total of 1,773,259 tons. The average carbon content is 13,338 tons C/ha or the total available carbon is 199.85 tons. The ability to absorb carbon dioxide (C02) is 44,789 tons C/Ha, with a community forest management area capable of absorbing 3,058,695 tons of C02 content.