bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dental Caries among Adult Population of a Municipality: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Khapung Anju , Shrestha Shrijana
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Oral disease as a public health problem poses a serious burden globally. The most common oral disease affecting adults is dental caries followed by periodontal disease leading to tooth loss. Early detection of dental caries can help reduce the severity and prevent further complications. This study aimed to ind out the prevalence of dental caries among adult population of a municipality.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among adults attending ive different dental camps in a municipality from 1 April 2022 to 2 June 2022. Ethical approval was obtained from Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 060-078/079). Convenience sampling method was used. The prevalence of dental caries was determined by dentition status adopted from basic oral health surveys recommended by World Health Organization. Point estimate and 95% Conidence Interval were calculated.
Results: Among 239 adults, 138 (57.74%) (51.48-64, 95% Conidence Interval) had dental caries.
Conclusions: The prevalence of dental caries among adults in the municipality was lower than in similar studies done in similar settings.
Radial Head Arthroplasty among Patients with Radial Head Fracture in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kandel Manoj , Banjade Deepak , Thapa Shrawan Kumar , Kandel Prakash , Adhikari Bishwa Raj , Neupane Kabin
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Proximal radial fractures are a common type of fracture around the elbow joint. Among these comminuted radial head fractures are commonly associated with secondary injuries and instability of the elbow joint. Management of the radial head in such cases is very important in restoring the stability of the elbow joint and starting early mobilization. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of radial head arthroplasty among patients with radial head fracture in a tertiary care centre.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 25 January 2019 to 25 December 2020 among patients with a radial head fracture at the Department of Orthopaedics of a tertiary care centre. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 076/77-08A). A convenience sampling method was used. The study group consisted of patients between 20 to 60 years of age with isolated radial head fractures. Radial head arthroplasty was done for Mason types III and IV fractures and functional outcome was calculated postoperatively with Mayo elbow score on follow-up at 3-, 6- and 12-month intervals. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.
Results: Out of 96 patients with radial head fracture, 22 (22.92%) (17.59-28.25, 95% Confidence Interval) underwent radial head arthroplasty. The mean Mayo elbow score was 96.33±7.74 at 12 months of follow-up.
Conclusions: The prevalence of radial head arthroplasty among irreparable radial head fractures was similar compared to other studies done in a similar setting.
Multiple Wasp Stings Leading to Rhabdomyolysis Induced Acute Kidney Injury with Incidental Ectopic Kidney: A Case Report
Authors: Dongol Angel , Sapkota Abhin , Devkota Rahul , Pandey Asim , Bhattarai Tulsi Ram
Published: October 2022

Rhabdomyolysis refers to skeletal muscle breakdown causing a release of different intracellular proteins including myoglobin and several electrolytes in the bloodstream. Elevations diagnose rhabdomyolysis in serum creatine kinase. Mass envenomation by multiple wasp stings can cause rhabdomyolysis followed by acute kidney injury, although it is scarce. A 24-year-old male presented to our tertiary centre in an anaphylaxis-like state after multiple wasps sting, rapidly developing rhabdomyolysis followed by acute kidney injury. Despite having an ectopic kidney with a pre-existing renal parenchymal disease, he recovered and was discharged, which in itself is a rare entity of low clinical incidence. Wasp stings can potentially result in serious clinical manifestations, which need to be watched over, assessed and promptly treated.
Azathioprine Induced Pancytopenia in a Patient with Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada Disease: A Case Report
Authors: Khatri Sagun , Khatri Saugat , Regmi Sachit , Pyakurel Sulav , Bhattarai Sanjeet , Barman Pankaj , Manandhar Dilasha , Singh Abhi Kumar
Published: October 2022

Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease is a multisystem autoimmune inflammatory disorder that affects the eyes, ears, skin, and the nervous system. It is a rare disease that mainly affects Asian, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern populations. Systemic steroids and immunosuppressants are frequently used to treat autoimmune diseases like this. Despite the fact that they reduce morbidity, immunosuppressants can have a number of side effects and are difficult to use, particularly when treating uncommon autoimmune illnesses. We present a case of a 56-year-old man who visited our health facility complaining of increased tears in both eyes along with bilateral blurring of vision. He was subsequently identified as having Vogt-Koyanagi-Harada disease. After prednisolone and methotrexate failed to have the desired effect, he was treated with azathioprine, which caused pancytopenia, and manifested as fever with positive blood culture for a coagulase-negative staphylococcus infection.
Amblyopia among Patients Attending the Outpatient Department of Ophthalmology of a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Adhikari Sikshya , Suwal Rinkal , Singh Basanta , Shrestha Rashmi , Karki Sudip , Khatri Bijay
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Amblyopia is defined as a reduction in visual acuity unilaterally or bilaterally without any detectable cause. It is a major public health issue in developing and underdeveloped countries. Its prevalence is usually underestimated because of proper study and lack of awareness. The aim of the study was to find out the prevalence of amblyopia among patients attending the Outpatient Department of Ophthalmology of a tertiary care centre.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among outpatients visiting a tertiary care centre in the Outpatient Department of Ophthalmology between 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2019. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board (Registration number: 407/2020 P). All patients had gone through a comprehensive eye examination. Convenience sampling was used. Point estimate and 99% Confidence Interval were calculated.
Results: Among 82972 patients, prevalence of amblyopia was 344 (0.41%) (0.37-0.46, 99% Confidence Interval). Amblyopia was more common in anisometropia 263 (63.50%). A total of 117 (34%) patients had no history of eye examination and were newly diagnosed with amblyopia. Astigmatism was the most common type of refractive error among 224 (56.70%) amblyopic patients.
Conclusions: The prevalence of amblyopia was found to be lower than in previous studies conducted in similar settings. Early detection and diagnosis of amblyopia can help to design more effective plans and treatments to reduce amblyopia through optical correction and amblyopia therapy.
Methemoglobinemia due to Hemolysis Secondary to Infection in a Child: A Case Report
Authors: Parajuli Biraj , Shrestha Swikriti , Lamichhane Sandesh , Subedi Subash , KC Sujata
Published: October 2022

Methemoglobinemia is a rare condition characterised by hypoxic state manifesting as headache, nausea, fatigue, and confusion. We report a 2-year-old boy presenting with fever and cough for 7 days with an episode of hypoxia as the saturation declined and did not improve on face mask oxygenation. On further evaluation, acute intravascular hemolysis was established following decreased haemoglobin level, increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase, and unconjugated bilirubin in the setting of documented infection. Assessment of arterial blood gas showed a significantly raised saturation gap and detection of methemoglobin confirmed the diagnosis. He was managed conservatively with packed red blood cells transfusion following which hypoxia was corrected. Methemoglobinemia as a result of hemolysis can be a non-cardio-respiratory cause of hypoxia and inciting aetiology needs to be addressed.
Poisoning among Patients Presenting to the Department of Emergency Medicine of a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Thakali Kabir , Ulak Nistha , Bharati Manjil , Thapa Lok Jung , Paudyal Dipendra Nepali , Basnet Chandra Kiran , Lamsal Dinesh Kumar , Pant Ramesh
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Poisoning is one of the major public health problems worldwide. The World Health Organization has estimated 0.3 million deaths a year due to various poisoning agents; pesticides being the leading one. Poisoning is one of the leading causes of emergency room visits. It has become a significant public health issue in Nepal. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of poisoning among patients presenting to the Department of Emergency Medicine of a tertiary care centre.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the Department of Emergency Medicine of a tertiary care centre from 24 June 2022 to 6 July 2022. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 11/2022). Data from 765 patients were collected from the hospital records. The patient's history and clinical examination were used to make the diagnosis of poisoning. Convenience sampling method was used. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.
Results: Among 765 patients visiting the emergency department, 8 (1.04%) (0.99-1.09, 95% Confidence Interval) patients were of poisoning. The most common poison used was organophosphates which was consumed by 2 (25%) patients and benzodiazepines by 2 (25%) patients.
Conclusions: The prevalence of poisoning among patients presenting to the Department of Emergency Medicine was similar when compared to other studies conducted in similar settings. Although agricultural poisons were commonly used, cases of drug poisoning seems to be on the rise nowadays.
Storage Locker Featuring Voice Activation for Visually Impaired
Authors: Wong Wai Kit , Sia Boon Jin , Min Thu Soe
Published: October 2022

Abstract: People who are visually impaired find it is challenging to temporarily store their precious or personal belongings to keep them safe. To improve their quality of life, visually impaired individuals need a storage locker equipped with assistive technology where they may store their valuables or personal items while they are at home or on the go. The voice-activated storage locker for the visually impaired individuals that is proposed in this study involve a voice recognition module, voice playback, a micro servo motor, and a braille keypad. With these integrated features, it will be easier for visually impaired individuals to operate the storage locker, which will boost its efficacy. A rotating mechanism would be activated by an electronic system built within the lock employing a servo motor. To make them easier for those with visual impairments to operate, standard storage locker types have been upgraded to include digital voice control. The results of a test conducted on 20 people with visual impairments showed that accurate passwords spoken by the user could lock and open the storage locker with an accuracy of up to 95%.
Attribution of Use Characteristics to Electronic Cigarette Brands in the National Youth Tobacco Survey
Authors: Foxon Floe , Shiffman Saul
Published: October 2022

_Background _This manuscript responds to a study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence (DAD). This re-analysis was submitted to DAD and received peer-review comments that were critical because the paper referred to the original authors by name and reviewers were concerned about conflict due to the sponsorship by JUUL Labs; no fundamental concerns were raised about the paper’s methods or findings. Following an appeal letter to DAD (see Supplemental Materials), which did not reverse the refusal to publish, the manuscript was transferred to the companion journal DAD Reports, where it was rejected, again without methodological concerns being raised.

_Introduction_ A previous publication, using NYTS data, reported higher electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS) use frequency and tobacco cravings among adolescents using JUUL-brand ENDS vs other ENDS brands. Re-analysis explores the effect of methodological decisions the original study employed that confound brand attributions: (1) imputing non-JUUL use to those reporting they “don’t know” what brand they used (“DKs”); and (2) counting as JUUL users those with _any_ JUUL use, even if they _usually_ used another ENDS brand.

_Methods_ Analyses of the same data examined the effects of assigning DKs to the ‘other brands’ group vs. coding DKs as missing, and re-examined the effects reported for JUUL when brand assignment was based on _usual_ and _exclusive_ brand use, respectively. 

_Results_ DKs used ENDS significantly less frequently and were significantly less likely to report craving than other ENDS users; assigning DKs to the “other-brand” group, as in the original analysis, resulted in every ENDS brand, when considered in turn, appearing to be used more frequently and eliciting greater craving, than all comparison brands. When DKs were coded as missing, there was no association between JUUL use and these outcomes. When assignment was based on _usual_ or _exclusive_ use, JUUL users were significantly _less_ likely to be frequent users, compared to non-JUUL users (Usual: Relative Risk Ratio (RRR): 0.45 (0.28–0.75); Exclusive: RRR: 0.31 (0.18–0.55)), and non-significantly less likely to report cravings.

_Conclusions_ Previous findings are attributable to methodological confounds in brand usage definitions. Re-analysis illustrates the impact of such methodological decisions.
Monopsony and Gender Wage Discrimination in the Philippines
Authors: Lanzona, Jr. Leonardo A.
Published: October 2022

Based on a selection bias corrected model using a multinomial logit, the study estimated wage elasticities of labor supply between men and women to measure the degree of monopsony in a less developed economy. Data from pooled Philippine Labor Force Surveys show a greater tendency for women to not be involved in local labor markets and to be as engaged as men in alternative work arrangements. While monopsony is detected in both male and female labor markets, the degree of the market imperfections is greater in the latter as wage elasticity is not significantly different from zero for women. Women tended to be less mobile in shifting to labor market arrangements, and a negative self-selection bias is found in the wages of women engaged in alternative labor arrangements.
Process Mining Dwelling Time at the Container Port using the Alpha Miner Method
Authors: Firmansyah Rivalno , Riyaldy Herdy , Jokonowo Bambang
Published: October 2022

The problem of measuring the dwelling time of the container logistics process at ports in developing countries is often a major problem. Therefore, process mining as a field of data science that focuses on analyzing event log data is used to perform business process analysis. In process mining, the process is a sequence of events or activities that are carried out to achieve certain goals. Event logs help an organization to find gaps between the designed business processes and the reality of the processes that occur. In this study PM4PY as a python library is used to perform process mining techniques. The results of the fitness calculation in this study indicate that the container logistics business process model is close to 0.99.
Analysis of SOR Framework Concerning Online Shopping Value and Web Satisfaction on E-Commerce
Authors: Sartika Tika , Aransyah Muhammad Fikry
Published: October 2022

Online shopping transactions on e-commerce in Indonesia are increasing. E-commerce players continue to attempt and develop strategies to attract users in shopping online. This research analyze through the SOR (Stimulus, Organism, Response) framework on the driving factors for e-commerce users, especially Shopee in making online purchases regarding online shopping value and web satisfaction provided on Shopee services, problems related to the high number of e-commerce shopping. and the amount of impulsive spending money in the large number from big sale programs that are displayed.  The approach of this research was qualitative through descriptive analysis of the results of questionnaires obtained by 385 respondents in Indonesia using the Guttman Scale and interviewing 10 informants as supporting empirical data. The results of this study was reproducibility coefficient is 0.94 and a scalability coefficient is 0.63, with reliable test using the Richard Kuderson formula (KR20) is 0.2 which was declared valid and reliable. In addition, the most important driving factor for purchase intention was obtained from this study, namely the free shipping feature with a percentage of 48.1%. Recommendations for future research is to focus on research on the peak moments of online shopping, such as the Ramadan big sale, and the celebration of the national shopping day and others. In addition, expanding respondents and informants, in order to expand the study and re-design related to the framework used.
Continuous Integration/ Continuous Delivery Optimization on Network Automation using Gray Wolf Optimizer
Authors: Adrian Ronald , Fauziyyah Anni Karimatul , Alam Sahirul
Published: October 2022

Continuous Integration/ Continuous Delivery is the latest method used in network automation. In-network programming has helped network admins a lot in managing all their devices. One of the real-time networks needs to force network admins to be able to provide data quickly. Deployment speed can be increased to provide up-to-date data or network configuration. To tackle these problems, we propose implementing the GWO algorithm in the Continuous Integration/Continuous Delivery process. This algorithm is proven to be superior in the speed of finding the value of the objective function compared to other similar algorithms. The results obtained indicate that the convergence time is faster by 74%. This value has an impact on increasing program deployment speed by 41.2%. These results indicate that the GWO algorithm can be an alternative to increasing the speed of Continuous Integration/ Continuous Delivery.
Karakteristik Petani Sagu Dan Peran Kearifan Lokal Dalam Menangani Kebakaran Lahan Gambut Di Desa Tanjung Kecamatan Tebing Tinggi Barat Kabupaten Kepulauan Meranti
Authors: Hayatullah M. Bayu Fathar , Yulida Roza , Cepriadi Cepriadi
Published: October 2022

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah (1) Mengetahui karakteristik dari petani sagu di Desa Tanjung. (2) Mengetahui peran kearifan lokal dan bentuk kearifan lokal yang masih ada di Desa Tanjung dalam menangani kebakaran lahan gambut. (3) Mengetahui upaya-upaya yang dilakukan untuk mempertahankan kearifan lokal dalam menjaga kelestarian lahan gambut. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah metode survey dengan bantuan kuisioner yang telah disiapkan. Populasi pada penelitian ini berjumlah 120 orang petani dengan sampel berjumlah 30 orang petani. Teknik pengambilan sampel yang digunakan adalah teknik Purposive Sampling. Analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis deskriptif untuk menjawab tujuan penelitian. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan karakteristik petani sagu dan peran kearifan lokal di Desa Tanjung berjalan dengan baik. Kearifan lokal yang terdapat didalamnya mulai dari proses budidaya tanaman sagu hingga penanganan kebakaran lahan gambut, serta berbagai upaya yang dilakukan guna mempertahankan kearifan lokal mulai dari apek ekologis, sosial budaya dan ekonomi.
Peran Penyuluh Dalam Keberdayaan Petani Padi Sawah di Desa Belading Kecamatan Sabak Auh Kabupaten Siak
Authors: Sibarani Rapindo , Cepriadi Cepriadi , Kausar Kausar
Published: October 2022

Petani bisa mengoptimalkan hasil pertaniannya dan meningkatkan usahataninya diperlukan peran penyuluh untuk menyampaikan edukasi serta bimbingan pada petani supaya petani bisa menggarap lahan dan menghasilkan hasil pertanian yang optimal sehingga petani bisa sukses dalam usaha taninya. Untuk meningkatkan usaha taninya petani membutuhkan peran penyuluh pertanian. Penyuluh pertanian adalah agen perubahan yg langsung berhubungan dengan petani. Fungsi utama penyuluh mengubah sikap petani melalui pendidikan non formal sehinga petani mempunyai kehidupan yg lebih baik secara berkelanjut, penyuluh melakukan perubahan sikap petani, sehingga mereka dapat memperbaiki cara bercocok tanamnya, lebih beruntung usaha taninya serta lebih layak hidupnya dan menjadi petani yang berdaya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh peran penyuluh terhadap keberdayaan petani. Penelitian ini dilaksanakan di Desa Belading Kecamatan Sabak Auh Kabupaten Siak. Responden dalam penelitian ini adalah petani padi sawah yang bergabung dengan kelompok tani sebanyak 50 sampel. Untuk menjawab tujuan penelitian ini menggunakan analisis regresi linier berganda. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwah peran penyuluh berpengaruh nyata terhadap keberdayaan petani padi sawah di Desa Belading baik secara simultan maupun secara parsial.
Modal Sosial dalam Pengelolaan Kebun Plasma Berkelanjutan pada KUD Lubuk Karya Kabupaten Dharmasraya
Authors: Yulistriani Yulistriani , Hasnah Hasnah
Published: October 2022

Pembangunan berkelanjutan menjadi isu penting di setiap sektor termasuk sektor perkebunan. Keberlanjutan kebun plasma sering mengalami permasalahan setelah lepas dari perkebunan besar pengelolanya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat bagaimana modal sosial berperan dalam keberlanjutan pengelolaan perkebunan kelapa sawit rakyat pasca plasma. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah metode survey melalui wawancara mendalam dengan Ketua KUD Lubuk Karya dan 10 orang anggotanya koperasi yang dipilih secara purposive sampling. Hasil wawancara ditabulasi dan diinterprestasikan. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa modal sosial berperan penting dalam keberlanjutan perkebunan pasca lepas dari plasma. Dapat disimpulkan bahwa modal sosial yang paling beperan dalam keberlanjutan perkebunan paca plasma adalah modal rasional terutama pada aspek saling percaya diantara anggota. Komunikasi, tranparansi dan aliran informasi antar aktor melahirkan hubungan positif jangka Panjang. Walaupun manajemen kebun sudah berganti dengan petani pengelola yaitu petani KUD tidak mempengaruhi keberlanjutan, karena transfer ilmu dan informasi masih tetap dilakukan melalui pemeliharaan hubungan sosial atau modal sosial.
Identifikasi Faktor Pendorong Petani Teh Kebun Rakyat di Kabupaten Solok Bergabung dalam Koperasi
Authors: Hariance Rika , Noer Melinda , Ridwan Endrizal , Hasnah Hasnah
Published: October 2022

Pada masa lalu keterikatan petani dengan koperasi di Indonesia sangat kuat, namun sejak perubahan peraturan pada masa reformasi membuat ikatannya melemah, petani enggan tergabung dalam koperasi. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi faktor-faktor yang mendorong petani kebun teh rakyat di Kabupaten Solok bergabung dalam koperasi KPTO Sebelas Jurai Saiyo disaat keyakinan petani terhadap koperasi mengalami kemunduran. Koperasi ini dipilih karena dalam 10 tahun telah berhasil menghasilkan teh berkualitas premium yang diekspor sebanyak 156 ton, selain itu koperasi ini juga berhasil meraih sertifikat fairtrade. Survey dilakukan kepada 30 orang anggota koperasi, kemudian data dianalisis menggunakan metode deskriptif kualitatif. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa faktor pendorong petani untuk tergabung dalam koperasi adalah karena adanya jaminan harga, pemasaran yang jelas dan adanya bantuan sarana produksi. Maka dengan demikian, dapat diketahui bahwa untuk meningkatkan kepercayaan petani pada koperasi, koperasi harus mampu menyediakan akses terhadap sarana dan prasarana produksi, memberikan jaminan pasar dan harga yang lebih tinggi dibandingkan dengan yang bukan anggota koperasi.
Investigating the Relationship Between the Dysphonia Severity Index and the Speech and Voice Severity of Parkinson Disease Patients
Authors:   Department of Speech Therapy, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran., Ghazi Shamim , Jamali Jamshid ,   Department of Biostatistics, School of Health, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran., Ghaemi Hamed ,   Bahar Institute of Higher Education, Mashhad, Iran., Taghi Farzadfard Mohammad ,   Department of Neurology, Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran., Ghaemi Hamideh ,   Department of Speech Therapy, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: This study aims to investigate the relationship between dysphonia severity index (DSI), speech disease and voice severity of Parkinson disease (PD) patients. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study, carried out on 45 randomly selected PD patients with the age range of 50 to 75 years. The Hoehn and Yahr scale (H.Y scale) was employed to measure the severity of PD. To measure the DSI, we required detecting the acoustic features of the voice, such as shimmer (dB), vital capacity (VC), semitone range (STR), and voice onset time (VOT); therefore, the participants were asked to produce the vowel /a/ three times for calculating the variables, i.e., STR, VOT, fundamental frequency (F0), second formant (F2), and shimmer (dB). Their voices were analyzed by the Praat software (version 6.0.23). F0 and F2 were utilized to calculate the STR. The VOT was assessed by analyzing the spectrograph of the syllable /pa/. The Kruskal-Wallis test was used to understand the correlation between DSI scores and the stage of PD (Y.H scale); the P value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. Results: A significant relationship was detected between severe DSI and the stage of PD. Meanwhile, the DSI score was statistically significant compared to the scores of the other four groups (P<0.05). Discussion: There was a significant relationship between the severity of voice changes in PD patients by DSI and the stage of their disease. Further studies in this field are needed considering that such information may be of cardinal importance for voice professionals to take early interventions, appropriate to the stage of PD.
Auditory Spectro-Temporal Modulation Training in Children With Auditory Processing Disorder
Authors:   Department of Audiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Jalilzadeh Afshari Parisa , Lotﬁ Younes ,   Department of Audiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Moossavi Abdollah ,   Department of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Bakhshi Enayatollah ,   Department of Biostatistics, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Sadjedi Hamed ,   Department of Electrical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Auditory processing disorder (APD) is due to the deficits in perceptual processing of acoustic information in the auditory system, characterized by poor speech perception of noise, regardless of normal hearing. The variability in speech function of APD children can be partly explained by changes in the encoding of spectro-temporal modulations (STMs) which have been overlooked, despite their significance. Given that enhancing STM sensitivity and its processing can be an appropriate way to improve the listener’s ability to retrieve and integrate speech segments covered by noise, we decided to evaluate the effects of STM-based auditory training on speech perception in noise and the reliability of this training in children with APD. Methods: Thirty-five children with APD (8-12 years old) were randomly divided into the training (n=17) and control groups (n=18) to evaluate the effectiveness and reliability of STM training on speech in noise perception. The intervention group was trained to detect STM by 120 trials every day for ten days. The STM detection thresholds and speech perception in noise were evaluated before and immediately after the finalization of formal training sessions in both groups. To address the training reliability, the tests were repeated one month after practice in the training group. Results: Following the completion of STM auditory training, the trained APD children improved notably in STM detection tasks and speech in noise tests (P<0.05). The post-training progress of STM detection thresholds and consonant-vowel in the noise test was preserved for one month after training (P>0.05), but the word in the noise test, especially in the right ear, was not retained (P<0.05). Discussion: Auditory spectro-temporal modulation training can lead to better processing of STM modulation. Its effects can be generalized to higher-order processing, such as speech perception in noise. Auditory training based on STM processing enhancement can play an essential role in improving speech comprehension in the noise abilities of children with APD.
Participation Assessment Scales for 4 to 18-Year-Old Individuals With Cerebral Palsy: A Systematic Review
Authors:   Department of Occupational Therapy, School of Rehabilitation Sciences, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Pashmdarfard Marzieh , Mirzakhani Araghi Navid ,   Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, School of Rehabilitation, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Participation is defined as involvement in life situations and the ultimate outcome for individuals with disabilities. One of the most common causes of chronic disabilities that restrict individuals’ participation is cerebral palsy (CP). The main goal of rehabilitation is to empower clients’ participation in various life areas. To affect participation, assessing the outcomes in individuals with different health conditions is necessary. Accordingly, this study aims to overview the psychometric properties of participation assessment scales for 4 to 18-year-old individuals with CP. Methods: A systematic review using PRISMA guidelines was completed. The searched keywords included the following items: participation, cerebral palsy, ADL, IADL, education, play, leisure, social participation, rest/sleep, work, leisure, scale, assessment tools, activity, meaningful activity, purposeful activity, function, performance, creational activity, physical activity participation, recreational activity, self-care, mobility, and functional mobility. The inclusion criterion for articles was being published in a peer review journal from 2000 to 2020. Results: After examining the title, abstract, and full text, 22 articles were eligible to be included. Among 1482 studies, a total of 22 studies assessing the participation of children with CP in meaningful activities were included in this review. Discussion: The psychometric properties of 8 outcome measures for 4 to 18-year-old individuals with CP were available and 5 assessment scales have the potential to be used for this population; however, the psychometric properties of these scales were unavailable.
Effects of Aromatherapy Using Sour Lemon on Nausea in Patients Undergoing Chemotherapy: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors:   Trauma Nursing Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran., Moghari Mortaza , Rahemi Zahra ,   School of Nursing, Clemson University, Clemson, United States., Sadat Zohreh ,   Trauma Nursing Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran., Mirbagher Ajorpaz Neda ,   Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Kashan University of Medical Sciences, Kashan, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Nausea is one of the most important symptoms of patients undergoing chemotherapy. This study aims to determine the effects of aromatherapy with sour lemon on nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Methods: A total of 50 patients undergoing chemotherapy were randomly assigned to experimental and placebo (control) groups. The two groups completed the visual analogue scale for nausea before and the first to the fourth week after starting the intervention. The intervention was performed during chemotherapy. Using a dropper, a paper towel was saturated with 3 drops of sour lemon essential oil; however, for the control group, 3 mL of water as a placebo was spread on a paper towel. The intervention in the experimental and control groups was performed once a week for 4 weeks during weekly chemotherapy sessions. Results: At the beginning of the study, no significant difference was observed between the mean score of nausea in the two groups (P>0.05). The first to the fourth week after starting the intervention, significant differences were observed between the mean score of nausea in the two groups (P<0.05). The results of the repeated measures analysis of variance indicated that the mean score of nausea changed over time in the experimental group, indicating a gradual decrease in the mean score of nausea (P<0.05). Discussion: Our findings indicated that aromatherapy with sour lemon can be effective in reducing nausea in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
Identifying Gene Signature in RNA Sequencing Multiple Sclerosis Data
Authors:   Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Kenarangi Taiebe , Bakhshi Enayatolah ,   Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran., Inanloo Rahatloo Kolsoum ,   Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, School of Biology, College of Science, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran., Biglarian Akbar ,   Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, University of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex central nervous system disease; it is the result of a combination of genetic predispositions and a nongenetic trigger. This study aims to find the gene signatures using a Pareto optimization algorithm for MS RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data. Methods: This case-control study involved 50 samples (25 MS patients and 25 age-matched healthy individuals) and their GSE profiles (GSE123496) were selected from the National Center for Biotechnology Information Gene Expression Omnibus database. We used Pareto-optimal cluster size identification to find the gene signatures in the RNA-seq data. After prefiltering and normalizing the data, we used the Limma package to find the differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The Pareto-optimal cluster size for these DEGs was then determined using the technique, multi-objective optimization for collecting the clusters alternatives. Afterward, the RNA-seq data were clustered via k-means with suitable cluster size. The best cluster, as a signature, was found by calculating the mean of the Spearman correlation coefficients (SCCs) of whole genes in the module in a pairwise manner. All analysis was performed in the R software, 4.1.1 package, under virtual space with 100 GB RAM. Results: In total, 960 DEGs were identified by the Limma analysis. Among them, 720 were up-regulated genes and 240 were down-regulated genes. Meanwhile, 6 Pareto-optimal clusters were obtained. Two clusters that had the greatest average SCCs score (0.88 and 0.74, respectively) were chosen as the gene signatures. Discussion: A total of 9 metabolic prognostic genes and 3 biological pathways were identified. These can provide more potent prognostic information for MS patients.
COVID-19 Pandemic and the Mental Health of Caregivers of the Elderly With Chronic Diseases
Authors:   Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran., Mohammadi Ferizi Malihe , Aali Shahrbanoo ,   Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran., Bigdeli Imaanollah ,   Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran., Rezaei Talab Fariborz ,   Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, Mashhad University of Medical Science, Mashhad, Iran., Moradi Tavalaei Arezoo ,   Faculty of Educational Science and Psychology, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: The social support of caregivers is fundamental, and their quality of life, mental health, and the burden of caring are related to the social support they receive during their interaction with people. Because the coronavirus pandemic and related quarantine have affected people’s participation and social support, the caregivers’ lifestyle has changed, and they have become more isolated and lonely. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of the burden of care in the relationship between social support and mental health of family caregivers of elderly Iranians with chronic diseases of the nervous system during the coronavirus pandemic. Methods: We recruited a sample of 249 family caregivers of the elderly with Alzheimer, Parkinson, and stroke. The study data were collected by electronic questionnaires of perceived social support of Zimet, Novak care burden, and Goldberg mental health questionnaire. The obtained data were analyzed using the Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling. Results: This study showed that family caregivers experience high social support, a moderate care load, and their mental health is on the verge of illness during the coronavirus epidemic. The results of the Pearson correlation and structural equation modeling showed a positive and significant relationship between social support perceived by caregivers and their mental health, and the burden of care has a mediating role in this relationship. Discussion: Finally, because social support is effective in reducing the distress experienced by caregivers and improving their performance and mental health, future plans and interventions are expected to consider strengthening social support as primary prevention to protect caregivers from mental health symptoms.
Body Image and Its Association With Self-esteem Among Amputation Cases at Prosthetics Center in Hilla City, Iraq
Authors:   Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Babylon, Iraq., Salahuddin Abdulrazaq Ameer , Jasim Shlash Ahmed Mohammed ,   Adults Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Al-Ameed, Karbala, Iraq., Ahmed Hrefish Zaman ,   Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, University of Babylon, Iraq., Mohammed Mays Abbas ,   Department of Nursing, Ministry of Health, Babylon, Iraq., Obaid Ali Fadhil ,   Pediatric Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq., Abdulameer Abdulrasol Zainab ,   Maternal and Neonate Health Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, University of Babylon, Babylon, Iraq.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Throughout history, people have lived through various situations of security, peace, recovery, and war, as well as the cruelty over the diversity, intensity, duration, or shortness of life. This study aimed to assess the self-esteem of amputees living in Hilla City, Babylon Province, in Center of Iraq. Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted to determine the association between body image and self-esteem of amputees. By a purposive sampling method, 200 subjects from both genders and different age groups (25-35, 36-46, 47-57, 58-68, and >69 years) were recruited. The study data were collected through the modified questionnaire of multidimensional body-self relations questionnaire, Rosenberg self-esteem scale, and interviews with the patients individually. The obtained data were collected and analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: Most participants were male patients aged between 58 and 68 years. The lower limbs were the most amputation site caused by the war for less than five years. The majority of amputees had negative responses toward their body image. As well as depicts (39%) as a majority response of amputated patients were never feel with their self-esteem. There was a high reverse association between body image and self-esteem (P<0.01). Discussion: Our analysis reflects that amputees see themselves negatively, which leads to a lack of self-esteem. Also, a feeling of negative body image affects their self-esteem. Hospitals should provide specialists in mental health and psychological therapy to increase the chance for early intervention and psychological treatment in these cases. The hospitals must provide programs to guide amputees and reduce their psychological problems.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Nurses’ Quality of Life in Iraq
Authors:   Department of Nursing, Al-Mustaqbal University, College of Hillah, Babil, Iraq., Hadi Burhan , Mohammed Saja ,   University of Babylon, College of Nursing, Babil, Iraq.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic’s significant effect on society has led to the death of many people. Nurses have saved many lives despite their high workload and infection risk. Nurses are among the medical staff who have long working hours and more interaction with patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. This condition can quickly change their quality of life (QoL). The study aimed to assess the impact of the pandemic on the nurses’ QoL in Iraq. Methods: This research is a descriptive cross-sectional online study. A non-probability snowball sampling technique was used to select the study participants. A total of 1000 nurses in Iraq completed an online questionnaire on the “QoL during COVID-19 scale,” the Arabic version, from March to May 2021. The researchers used statistical methods of percentage, frequency, linear regression, 1-way ANOVA, and independent t test. Results: The regression analysis revealed the COVID-19 impact on the nurses’ QoL (P=0.029) and the relationships between the QoL and demographic characteristics of the study samples such as gender, marital status, years of experience in the nursing field, as well as the personal protective equipment available in the workplace (P=0.00, P=0.01, P=0.01, and P=0.033, respectively). Discussion: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the QoL of nurses. There are significant relationships between nurses’ QoL with sociodemographic variables such as age, marital status, years of experience in the nursing field, and personal protective equipment available in the workplace.
Study of Nurses’ Knowledge About COVID-19 in Al-Hilla Teaching Hospitals
Authors:   Department of Nursing, Al-Mustaqbal University College (MUC), Babylon, Iraq., H. AL-Salih Sadiq Salam , Jaber Muhbes Fakhria ,   Department of Nursing, Al-Mustaqbal University College (MUC), Babylon, Iraq.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic is a major health crisis that emerged at the end of the first quarter of the 21st century and changed the lives of millions of people globally. Nurses have close contact with infectious patients; therefore, nurses need to obtain sufficient knowledge in this regard. They need to assess their level of knowledge about COVID-19 and explore their needs to enhance and improve their knowledge in order to be more qualified to fight this virus. This study intends to assess nurses’ knowledge regarding COVID-19 and to find out the differences in nurses’ knowledge about COVID-19 with regard to their demographic variables. Methods: A descriptive (cross-sectional design) study was conducted to assess nurses’ knowledge regarding COVID-19 in Al-Hilla teaching hospitals in Al-Hilla City, Iraq, from September 25, 2020, to February 20, 2022. Using a convenient sampling method, a sample of 200 nurses working at epidemic hospitals was selected. The data collection process began with a questionnaire, which nurses answered as a self-report (questionnaire). Then the questionnaires were collected from the respondents. The average time to fill out the questionnaire was between 10 and 20 minutes. Results: The findings indicate that most nurses (58%) had poor knowledge about COVID-19. There were significant differences in nurses’ knowledge about COVID-19 with regard to their educational levels (P<0.05) and experience in epidemiological wards (P<0.05). Also, there was no difference between nurses’ attitudes toward COVID-19 with regard to their experience in epidemiological wards (P>0.05), but there was a significant difference between nurses’ knowledge about COVID-19 with regard to their source of information about COVID-19 (P<0.05). Discussion: The present study revealed that nurses had moderate knowledge about COVID-19. They had poor knowledge related to the prevention of COVID-19, while they had poor knowledge as overall knowledge related to COVID-19.
Social Support and Its Association With the Quality of Life (QoL) of Amputees
Authors:   Community Health Nursing, College of Nursing, Dhi Qar University, Thi Qar, Iraq., Juma Elywy Gossoon , Radhi Mohammed Malih ,   Community Health Nursing, Kut Technical Institute, Middle Technical University, Babylon, Iraq., Khyoosh Al-Eqabi Qasim Abbas ,   Community Health Techniques, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical University, Wasit, Iraq.
Published: October 2022

Objectives: Social support is an essential source of psychological support that a disabled person needs in daily life. Social support and level of satisfaction affect how the patient perceives the various stresses of life. Because of few studies on amputees, it is necessary to study social support and its impact on their quality of life (QoL). This study investigates social support and its relationship to QoL among amputation cases living in Kut City, Iraq. Methods: This correlational study was conducted on 150 participants attending the Prosthetics Center in Kut. We investigated the relationship between social support and the QoL of amputees. The study questionnaire’s reliability was assessed through a pilot study, and it was subsequently presented to experts for validation. The information was collected through interview techniques and evaluated using descriptive and inferential statistical analysis. Results: The Mean age of the participants was 38 years. They were mostly married males and unemployed with low economic status. Findings show that 68% of the participants expressed poor social support. Their social status, residents, and income had been influenced the social support (Mean±SD: 34.18±14.978), and 62% expressed a poor QoL (Mean±SD: 85.37±21.008). There was a significant correlation between social support and QoL (P=0.000), and social support significantly affected the QoL for amputation cases (P=0.000). Discussion: There is a strong significant positive correlation between social support and QoL. The QoL among amputated cases was dependent on their social support. If family, friends, and community members provide embellished social support for amputees, they can face adversity and crises and lead their lives more effectively.