bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular autonomic evaluation and body fat analysis in COVID-19-recovered patients in Dakshina Kannada, India
Authors: Balakrishnan Grrishma , Bangera Shobith , Balasubramaniyam Kalpana , Thalanjeri Padmini , Beeran Nabeel , Uppinakudru Gurunandan , Soofi Anwar Amemar
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The pandemic, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has led to a heavy toll on the human health. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of body fat distribution, evolving long-term effect on autonomic function, and its correlation with Chalder Fatigue Severity Score in post-COVID-19-recovered individuals of Indian ethnicity.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

A case–control study was conducted in the Department of Physiology on 31 cases and 29 age- and gender-matched controls. Cardiovascular evaluation including heart rate variability (HRV), galvanic skin response (GSR), body fat analysis, and Chalder Fatigue Severity Score was performed on the study participants. The continuous variables of basal anthropometric parameters, GSR values, HRV indices, and body fat parameters are expressed as mean and standard deviation (SD).

RESULTS:

Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) was significantly increased among cases (P = 0.04). GSR (average) for cases is higher when compared to controls and was borderline significant (P = 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in the HRV parameters. Cases showed significantly higher body fat distribution as compared to the control group indicating increased susceptibility of the obese population to COVID-19. Chalder’s post-COVID-19 Fatigue Severity Score of cases showed a negative correlation with LF:HF and RMSSD but it was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION:

In our study, we conclude that there was a significant increase in DBP and GSR (average) with significantly higher visceral fat percentage, body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat percentage, skeletal muscle percentage, and trunk fat percentage in cases as compared to the control group suggestive of higher propensity of obese individuals suffering from COVID-19 and resulting in dysautonomia as compared to the controls.
Delays in receiving Alteplase and related factors in patients with stroke referred to Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan-Iran in 2020-2021
Authors: Sirousinejad Zahra Sadat , Dianati Mansour , Kheiran Mahdi , Sooki Zahra
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The benefits of using Alteplase are time-dependent. This study aimed to evaluate delays between the onset of symptoms and the administration of Alteplase and related factors in patients with acute ischemic stroke (AIS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, 60 AIS patients receiving Alteplase were selected by census sampling from July 2020 to July 2021 from the eligible patients referred to Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan, Iran. The data collection tool was a researcher-made questionnaire containing demographic information, time periods from the onset of symptoms to the injection of Alteplase, and associated factors. The required information was collected from the patients, their relatives, their health records, and Kashan Emergency Medical Service (EMS) information system. Data were analyzed in SPSS-16.

RESULTS:

Eighty-five percent of the 60 patients participating in the study were transferred to the hospital by EMS ambulances. The mean time intervals between different phases were as follows: Onset-To-Door (OTD) time 81.35 ± 33.76 minutes; Door-To-CT (DTC) scan time 16.12 ± 17.46 minutes; Door-To-Needle (DNT) time 51.30 ± 26.14 minutes; and the overall Onset-To-Needle (ONT) time 133.75 ± 39.17 minutes. Also, the mean ONT in people transferred by EMS was about 129 minutes, and the longest prehospital delay in these patients was related to the time between the arrival of the EMS ambulance to the hospital. Marital status and geographical location where the stroke had occurred showed a significant relationship with prehospital delay and pre-hospital notification (PHN) by EMS But there was no relationship between underlying diseases or economic status and prehospital delays; also, the patient’s diastolic blood pressure at the time of receiving Alteplase showed a significant relationship with in-hospital delay.

CONCLUSION:

The findings of the study showed that the majority of people trust and use EMS ambulances to transfer to the hospital and the time spent in different stages, from the onset of symptoms to the injection of the thrombolytic drug, was in an acceptable range in the patients.
Biosemiotic medicines: Symbolic formulations for placebo enhancements
Authors: Goli Farzad
Published: April 2024

The healing response is a complex and multiform procedure that involves many physical and symbolic interactions and synchronizations. In the clinical research model, certain factors are abstracted during which contextual elements, such as placebo responses and communicative factors, are excluded to reveal the pieces of evidence that are necessary for the mass production of clinical materials and methods. On the other side, clinical practice is a singular and chaotic communicative action in which we should include contextual and discursive factors for prompting proper biological as well as behavioral responses. Placebo responses, personal history and attitudes, and clinical relationships and communication are some of the contextual and individual factors that can be changed effectively if we can communicate with the symbolic and reflective matrices of clinical practice. In this article, the author introduces a biosemiotic formula for healing responses that include symbolic and reflective factors of healing response aligned with the related biological procedures. Not only are psychological interventions beneficial in mental health problems and symptom control but they could also be used as co-treatments to reinforce placebo responses and improve illness behavior and treatment narratives.
Economic impact of government health expenditure: An application of the computable general equilibrium model to the Iran
Authors: Mohammad-Pour Saeed , Barkhordari Sajjad , Tabatabaei Sharareh Majdzadeh , Hadian Mohammad
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Considering the increase in health expenses and the government’s role in health financing, this study investigated the economic impact of increases in the share of the health sector in the government budget while taxes remain unchanged and government spending is fixed.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

The economic model used in this study was a macroeconomic Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model. This model was calibrated using a 2011 Social Accounting Matrix (SAM) Of Iran. The CGE model was solved with non-linear programming using the General Algebraic Modeling System package, version 2.50. The effect of this simulation on the government budget deficit, the production of different sectors of the economy, and the employment rate was investigated.

RESULTS:

Based on our fundings the elasticity of substitution in the agricultural and industrial sectors is higher than in the health and service sector. Also, the biggest decrease in production occurred in the industry, agriculture, and service sectors, respectively. With the doubling of the share of government spending in the health sector, the employment rate of this sector has increased by 40.9%, but the highest decrease in the ignition rate is related to the service sectors (−2.7%), agriculture (−0.23%), and industry (−0.14%).

CONCLUSION:

Increasing the share of government spending in the health sector in comparison with other sectors of the economy, provided that government spending is maintained in general, leads to a decrease in production and economic welfare. It seems that the Iranian government should seek to increase the sources of health financing and the share of government expenditures in the health sector with other ways in order to improve the health level of the society and have a positive effect on other economic sectors.
A comparative analysis of stress, anxiety, and social well-being of working mothers and stay-at-home mothers during the covid pandemic
Authors: Nadri Zahra , Torabi Fatemeh , Pirhadi Masoume
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The role of mental health is crucial in maintaining the dynamism and productivity of any given society. In contemporary times, a significant proportion of the workforce is comprised of women and mothers. Working in healthcare facilities, where exposure to pathogenic agents is an everyday nuisance, can have detrimental effects on mothers’ stress and anxiety levels. Furthermore, such exposure can also endanger the health of both the family and society. Conversely, the employment of mothers could positively impact their social well-being. The primary objective of this study is to assess and compare the stress, anxiety, and social well-being scores of mothers employed in healthcare facilities and stay-at-home mothers during the COVID pandemic.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study is a cross-sectional analysis of 246 mothers, equally divided into two groups: Mothers who work in health centers and stay-at-home mothers (123 individuals in each group). The study was conducted from 2021 to 2022, a multistage sampling method was utilized and two questionnaires were administered: The DASS 21 (21 questions) and the social well-being questionnaire (48 questions). The data were analyzed using SPSS 18, and descriptive and analytical tests (Independent Samples T-Test, Mann-Whitney) were employed.

RESULTS:

The mean age was 35.7 ± 7.1 for working mothers and 34.3 ± 6.3 for stay-at-home mothers. The average stress score for employed mothers was 5.72 ± 4.7, and for stay-at-home mothers, it was 7.16 ± 4.3, which indicates a statistically significant difference in stress levels between the two groups (P = 0.04). However, the two groups had no significant difference in the mean anxiety score (P = 0.08). The mean score for social well-being was 165.5 ± 18.4 for working mothers and 162.17 ± 21.2 for stay-at-home mothers. This difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.18). Except for the social acceptance dimension (P = 0.003), no statistically significant differences were observed in the social well-being dimension between the two groups.

CONCLUSION:

The social acceptance of working mothers appears to be greater than that of stay-at-home mothers. Higher social acceptance suggests that they hold a more positive outlook on people and are at ease in social situations, which may have helped to alleviate their stress and anxiety.
Role of handgrip strength in predicting the quality of life in older adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Eskandarzadeh Masoumeh , Mansour-Ghanaei Roya , Pourghane Parand , Chaboki Bahare Gholami
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Quality of life (QOL) is a vital component in assessing the standard of living for seniors. Hand grip strength (HGS) is a widely used measure to diagnose muscle strength decline that often occurs due to age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and function. This study focuses on the HGS in predicting the QOL of older adults who are referred to retirement centers in Guilan Province.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In 2021, a cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 115 older adults who were residing in retirement centers located in Guilan Province, Northern Iran. The participants were selected using a two-stage sampling method, where three retirement centers were randomly chosen followed by convenience sampling from each center. The selected retirement centers were situated in Langrod, Sowme’eh Sara, and Rasht cities in the east, west, and center of the province, respectively. The data were collected through a demographic information questionnaire, QOL scale (CASP-19), and HGS measurement using a dynamometer.

RESULTS:

Of the participants, 57.4% were male, 51.3% had middle income, and 96.5% were categorized as young elderly. The mean overall QOL score was found to be 37.026 ± 6.123, while the mean HGS level was 31.74 ± 7.45 and 18.48 ± 5.13 among males and females, respectively. There was a significant association between the level of education and QOL (P = 0.002). Moreover, there was a positive and significant correlation between HGS and QOL (r = 0.54, P = 0.001). The results of the multiple linear regression identified HGS as a predictor of QOL (Adj R2 = 0.44, βHGS = 0.79).

CONCLUSION:

Given that HGS has been identified as a predictor of QOL in older adults, improving this factor through exercise can lead to enhancement in their QOL. Therefore, regular sports exercises can be recommended as a means of improving HGS and subsequently enhancing the QOL of older adults.
Effective factors in planning, implementation, and management of educational program evaluation in medical sciences: A practical guide
Authors: Salajegheh Mahla
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Educational program evaluation is a complex issue, and it is essential to have knowledge of the potential challenges and solutions during the whole process. The present study aimed to identify the influential components in planning, implementation, and evaluation management of educational programs in medical sciences and then provide an applied guide to guarantee the best possible evaluation by evaluators of educational programs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This descriptive study was conducted in three steps. First, the effective components in planning, implementation, and evaluation management of educational programs in medical sciences were reviewed. Second, experts’ opinion was asked through a focus group discussion regarding the mentioned components. Third, regarding the complied applied guide, the opinions of 40 medical educationist and program evaluation experts were investigated using a checklist.

RESULTS:

An applied guide for planning, implementation, and evaluation management of educational programs in medical sciences consists of eight stages: determining the evaluation questions and standards, determining the type of information required, determining resources to collect information, determining methods and tools to collect information, determining data analysis methods, determining the timing and frequency of reporting, determining the appropriate ways of reporting, and determining strategies to maintain the cooperation of data sources.

CONCLUSION:

The spread of educational programs in medical sciences universities leads to an increasing need for program evaluation to provide evidence of their effectiveness and improvement. The present research provided an applied guide to make the evaluation of educational programs feasible by using a set of concepts, principles, methods, theories, and models.
Psychometric evaluation of a new instrument to hookah tobacco smoking-related factors in the Iranian female university students based on the Extended Parallel Process Model
Authors: Zamani-Alavijeh Fereshteh , Heidari Zahra , Mostafavi Firoozeh , Bashirian Saeed , Makvandi Zeinab , Kelishadi Roya
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The higher prevalence of hookah tobacco smoking (HTS) has become worrisome in women. Thus, it is essential to identify and measure the perceptions associated with this unhealthy behavior as well as the type of response to risk messages to design the effective programs. This study aimed to psychometric evaluation of a new instrument, named the Extended Parallel Process Model-Hookah Tobacco Smoking Questionnaire (EPPM-HTSQ), for female university students.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

This methodological study was conducted in 2019–2020 in central and western Iran. The first version of the instrument was developed with 97 items. Face, Content, and construct validity methods were used to assess the EPPM-HTSQ validity. The data viability for factorability was guided through Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) measure of sample adequacy (Values >0.7) and Bartlett’s test of Sphericity (P < 0.05). The Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) method with varimax rotation and SPSS software was performed to identify the main factors of the questionnaire and interpretable factors. The internal consistency and external reliability were determined. The test–retest was used for evaluating the stability of tools.

RESULTS:

During the assessment of the face and content validity 71 items remained in the questionnaire. EFA led to the extraction of nine dimensions: “Focusing on superior rewards,” “Response Efficacy,” “Perceived physical threat,” “Perceived social threat,” “Self-efficacy,” “Fear control,” “Attitude,” “Fear,” and “Intention” Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test (0.957) and Bartlett’s test (P < 0.001). Cronbach’s alpha (0.871–0.951) and ICC (0.985–0.998) were approved for scale dimensions.

CONCLUSION:

Important findings of the present study were the development and validation of the EPPM-HTSQ for measuring EPPM variables in relation to HTS; introducing a new variable “focusing on superior rewards”; as well as, the new classification of the concept of “perceived threat.” The final version of the EPPM-HTSQ is a valid and reliable tool, but it is suggested to be re-evaluated in other studies with different populations and sample sizes.
Relationship between professional self-concept and perceived organizational support with family functioning in nurses in Isfahan, Iran
Authors: Sahraian Leila , Alavi Mousa , Ghaedi-Heidari Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Vocational issues affect nurses’ family functioning in long term. So the purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between professional self-concept and perceived organizational support with nurses’ family functioning.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This descriptive correlational study conducted in hospitals affiliated to Isfahan University of Medical Sciences and 250 nurses who met the inclusion criteria participated in this study. The samples were selected conveniently from December 2022 to August 2022. To collect data, Cowin’s professional self-concept questionnaire, Eisenberger’s perceived organizational support questionnaire, and Epstein’s family function measurement were used. Data collection was done in one step and cross-sectional. Descriptive statistics and inferential methods of data analysis consisted of Pearson’s correlation coefficient and multiple linear regression were used. Data were analyzed with statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22.

RESULTS:

One of the six dimensions of professional self-concept consisted of staff relations significantly predicted the family function of nurses (P = .004). No significant relationship was found between perceived organizational support and nurses’ family function (P = .825).

CONCLUSION:

Promoting the healthcare organizations’ human climate may improve nurses’ wellbeing and hereby their family functioning which could further improve quality of healthcare services. It may be worthwhile to suggest supporting interpersonal and interprofessional relationships to ensure a healthy professional life for the nurses.
Design, implementation, and evaluation of a virtual pulmonary rehabilitation training course for medical interns in COVID-19
Authors: Mianehsaz Elaheh , Zobeidy Ebrahim , Azadchehr Mohammad Javad , Abrahimi Alireza , Faghihi Atiye
Published: April 2024

Pulmonary rehabilitation has an influential role in improving the symptoms, reducing subacute and chronic complications, and increasing the performance of patients with COVID-19. Medical interns can play an essential role in training patients. Since, at the time of the research, these concepts were not in the general medical curriculum in Iran, the interns were not trained in this field. This study aimed to design, implement, and evaluate the virtual training course for pulmonary rehabilitation for medical interns in the COVID-19 crisis. A cross-sectional study (with an instructional design approach) was conducted at an academic center in 2021 on 25 medical interns. The newly designed educational content included multimedia files and educational videos offered to the participants. The data collection tools were pre- and post-test, attitude, and satisfaction evaluation questionnaires. Data were analyzed using SPSS (one-sample and paired t-test). The average age of the participants was 26.24 ± 0.92, and most were women (14 (56%)). The average knowledge score after the course (18.52 ± 4.44) compared to before (11.12 ± 2.38) was significant (P < 0.001). The average score of attitudes (55.04 ± 6.49) and satisfaction (92.92 ± 10.69) had a significant difference (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001) and indicated the desirability of the course. Considering the results of this course in improving students’ knowledge, attitude, and satisfaction, it is suggested to add this topic to the general medical curriculum (pulmonary or infectious diseases courses).
Randomized controlled trial investigating the role of yoga at workplace in improving fatigue, burnout, pain, strength, and quality of life among blue-collar workers
Authors: Fogawat Kavita , Keswani Jyoti , Sharma Hemanshu , Tewani Gulab R. , Kodali Prakash B. , Nair Pradeep M. K.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Due to the physical demands of work, blue-collar workers (BCW) frequently experience fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and burnout. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility and utility of introducing yoga-based loosening exercises (YLE) at the workplace for improving fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and burnout among BCW.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

One hundred and twenty-eight BCW were randomized into a yoga group that received 40 minutes of supervised YLE daily, 5 days a week, for 1 month, followed by 1 month of unsupervised practice at home or a waitlisted control group. The Chalder Fatigue Scale (CFS), Visual Analog Scale for pain, Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI), sit-and-reach test (SRT), handgrip strength dynamometer, and the Short Form-8 (SF-8) questionnaire were measured at baseline, at the end of the first month, and at follow-up after the first month.

RESULTS:

All the participants adhered well to the YLE (≈86% at the workplace, ≈70% at home). Compared to the controls, the yoga group reported significant reductions in fatigue, pain, and burnout and significant improvements in flexibility, strength, and quality of life (P < 0.001) at all the time points.

CONCLUSION:

Our findings demonstrate that workplace yoga programs for BCW are feasible and can considerably reduce fatigue, pain, and burnout and improve their quality of life.
Voices unheard, insights into the lives of people with disabilities: A needs assessment study
Authors: Sargazi Samaneh , Yamani Nikoo , Najimi Arash
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The phenomenon of disability in society is as ancient as human history itself. Approximately one billion people worldwide experience some form of disability, with a fifth of these individuals facing significant disabilities. Disability affects various life dimensions, including access to health services. This study aimed to identify the needs and challenges encountered by people with disabilities and to propose solutions for these issues.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This qualitative content analysis research was conducted at Isfahan University of Medical Sciences in 2019. Participants included faculty members from the rehabilitation school, senior students, therapists, disabled individuals, and their families (23 interviews in total). These participants were chosen for their extensive knowledge of the challenges faced by people with disabilities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted, with informed consent obtained before each interview. The interviews were analyzed using the Graneheim and Lundman content analysis method and MAXQDA software. To ensure data accuracy, the criteria of conformability, credibility, dependability, and transferability were applied.

RESULTS:

The analysis of the interviews yielded two main categories and 10 subcategories. In the category of disability-related problems, family problems, therapeutic problems, psychological problems, academic problems, and social problems were identified as the most significant. As for solutions, educational solutions, therapeutic solutions, social solutions, research solutions, and solutions for reintegrating patients into normal life were proposed to address the problems faced by disabled individuals.

CONCLUSION:

People with disabilities are an integral part of any country’s society. To adequately address their therapeutic needs, it is essential to equip our health workers with the knowledge and skills tailored to the specific needs and challenges of disabled individuals.
The mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes: Conditional indirect effect of gender
Authors: Sayed Samiha H.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

The role of emotional intelligence and learning motivation in shaping university students’ academic outcomes has received greater attention, especially during the modernization era. Thus, this study investigates the mediating role of emotional intelligence in the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes while examining the gender-conditional indirect effect.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in four randomly chosen cities in Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah, Hail, and Yanbu), where 400 health science students were conveniently selected using equal allocation (100 students/campus). A digital survey was used for data collection (April-May 2022) containing three sections: Personal Characteristics and Academic Outcomes, Modified Schutte Self-Report Inventory, and Academic Motivation Scale.

RESULTS:

Emotional intelligence positively correlated with learning motivation (r = 0.525, P < 0.001) and academic outcomes (r = 0.153, P < 0.001), where academic outcomes had a weak positive correlation with learning motivation (r = 0.115, P = 0.014). Mediation analysis confirmed that emotional intelligence fully mediates the relationship between learning motivation and academic outcomes with an insignificant direct effect of learning motivation on academic outcomes [(β =0.049, P = 0.573), 95% CI (-0.059, 0.144)]. The conditional indirect effect of gender significantly moderated 16.1% of the mediating effect of emotional intelligence [(β =0.161, P = 0.005), 95% CI (0.035, 0.273)]. The significant indirect effect was proved for the male gender only [(β = 0.157, P = 0.004), 95% CI (0.072, 0.240)]. No significant gender differences concerning emotional intelligence (P = 0.534) and academic outcomes (P = 0.466) were detected. However, male students had significantly higher learning motivation than female students (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

Emotional intelligence completely mediates the relationship between learning motivation and outcomes with a stronger mediating effect for male students. Thus, policymakers must focus on improving the students’ emotional intelligence skills to boost their learning motivation and academic outcomes.
Assessment of Procrastination Trait among Dental Students in South India
Authors: Mohan G. , Prabhu S. Anand , Sugumaran D. K. , Ahamed S. Syed Shaheed , Lokesh S. , Kamalakannan Sruthi Ottilingam
Published: April 2024

Context:

Procrastination is defined as “a trait or behavioral disposition to postpone or delay performing a task or making decisions.” It is a self-handicapping behavior that may result in loss of productivity, poor performance, and increased stress among individuals.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of procrastination trait among undergraduate and postgraduate dental students.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted among undergraduate and postgraduate students during October–November 2022 for assessing their procrastination trait. The response rate was 100%. Lay’s Procrastination Scale (LPS) – student version was used to collect the desired information.

Results:

The results showed that interns had significantly high procrastination prevalence (LPS score ≥60) compared to BDS final-year students and postgraduate students. The procrastination trait among males was found to be higher compared to females.

Statistical Analysis:

The Kruskal–Wallis test was applied to compare the mean procrastination score, and the Chi-square test was applied to determine the difference in procrastination extent.

Conclusion:

Procrastination has been consistently reported to exert an adverse influence on the academic performance of students, which would in turn affect the performance and the quality of work being delivered by the students. Therefore, certain active measures have to be enforced to help the students for effective time management, which would reduce the consequences of procrastination in dental education.
Effect of Primer before Resin Cement on Bracket Base and the Influence of Storage Time on Shear Bond Strength
Authors: Moreira Fernando César , Jacob Helder Baldi
Published: April 2024

Background:

The elapsed time after bracket bonding and sandblasting the base could influence the shear bond strength (SBS) to enamel.

Aim:

This study evaluated the effect of primer application on the bracket base before application of resin and its interaction with storage time and sandblasting factors on SBS.

Materials and Methods:

Brackets were bonded on the enamel surface of 160 bovine incisors divided into eight groups (n = 20) with mesh bases, with and without sandblasting, with different storage times (immediately and 24 h), and with two different techniques (with and without primer on the base before resin).

Results:

SBS mean in conventional and primer groups ranged from 23 ± 7.76 MPa to 48 ± 11.34 MPa, respectively. After 24 h period, SBS increased when the primer was applied before resin on the bracket bases (P < 0.001). The effect of each isolated factor (storage time and primer application) was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Primer application versus time factors was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Sandblasted bases were not influential on SBS separately or by any of the interaction factors (P = 0.628). Adhesive interface failures were significant when the adhesive remnant index was evaluated regarding storage time without primer (P = 0.022); however, primer application did not show significance when the time was evaluated (P = 0.686).

Conclusion:

Primer increases the SBS after a 24 h period. Most of the failures occurred at the enamel/adhesive interface. Sandblasting treatment of bracket bases did not influence the SBS.
Knowledge and Practice Regarding Foot Care among Persons with Diabetes Attending Diabetic Clinic of a Tertiary Care Centre in Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Dadwal Ritambra , Kuppuswamy Rajarajeswari
Published: April 2024

Background:

Amputation related to foot ulcers that develop in diabetes is the worst consequence of improper foot care among diabetic patients. Considering this, the present research was conducted to assess the knowledge and practice regarding foot care in people with diabetes.

Aim:

The present study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice regarding foot care among persons with diabetes attending a diabetic clinic at a tertiary care centre in Uttarakhand and to distribute a teaching aid to educate them regarding foot care in diabetes.

Patients and Methods:

One hundred and fifty persons with diabetes attending a diabetic clinic were assessed using a cross-sectional, descriptive design. A self-structured questionnaire on knowledge and practice was used to collect the data from the participants, who were selected using a convenient sampling technique. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for the analysis of the data.

Results:

About 21 (14.0%) patients had adequate knowledge, 108 (72.0%) had moderately adequate knowledge and 21 (14.0%) had inadequate knowledge. Most of the patients 97 (64.7%) had average practice, 52 (34.7%) had good practice and 1 (0.6%) had poor practice regarding foot care in diabetes. Pamphlets were made and distributed among patients to educate them regarding foot care for diabetes.

Conclusion:

People with diabetes, who visited the diabetic clinic at a tertiary centre in Uttarakhand had moderately adequate knowledge and average practice. This indicates patients need more education related to foot care in diabetes.
Pattern of Ultrasonographic Prescriptions and Findings in Rural Northern India: A Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Dhirar Nonita , Singh Tulika , Soundappan Kathirvel
Published: April 2024

Background:

Ultrasonography (USG) is used extensively across countries to diagnose and manage diseases. However, the existing USG services must be utilised rationally and effectively.

Aim:

Understanding the pattern of USG prescriptions and findings is important for improving the quality of healthcare services delivered by any healthcare system.

Patients and Methods:

A mixed methods study was conducted at a rural sub-district hospital in northern India to assess the pattern and completeness of prescriptions and USG findings and explore the patient and doctor-related factors influencing the USG prescription practices.

Results:

Of the 505 patients studied, 324 (64.2%) were females. The median age was 32 years (interquartile range: 24–45 years). The availability of complete medical history and clinical examination recording was 471 (85.7%) and 145 (28.7%), respectively. The indication for USG was mentioned in 436 (86.3%) prescriptions. Of the total, 251 (49.7%) had abnormal ultrasound findings. The abnormal finding was significantly high amongst patients (a) aged 45–59 years (P = 0.015) and (b) referred from surgery, paediatrics and other outpatient departments (P = 0.001) after adjustment to other factors. Patient-related factors such as non-harmfulness, free availability, reassurance of normality and health system/provider-level factors such as absence or low awareness of guidelines and changed clinical practice were the reasons for the current pattern of USG prescriptions.

Conclusion:

Although the medical history is better recorded, the incomplete recording of clinical examination needs improvement. Placing a guideline for prescribing USG, imposing nominal user fees and patient education and counselling can be tested for effectively utilising the USG services. Further, tracking the change in clinical management following the USG in Indian setting is the need of the hour.
Effect of Dietary Habits and Physical Activities on Abnormal Menstrual Cycle Pattern Amongst School-going Adolescent Girls Residing in the Foothills of the Himalayas: An Age-matched Case–Control Study
Authors: Nishu Jha , Yogesh Bahurupi , Mohan Agarwal Sameer , Manisha Dhinwa , Moni Jha , Pallavi Singh , Singh Bhadoria Ajeet
Published: April 2024

Background:

The menstrual cycle pattern in women is related to high variability in cycle length of 21–35 days, flow lasts 4–7 days with an average loss of 15–80 ml of blood. The abnormal menstrual pattern is influenced by several factors, including dietary habits, physical exercises, family history of obesity and anthropometric parameters.

Objectives:

This research was carried out to establish numerous risk elements that depict abnormal menstrual cycle patterns amongst school-going adolescent girls in urban areas of Rishikesh, India.

Methods:

An age-matched case–control research was implemented in schools in the urban areas of Rishikesh between May and December 2019. A simple random sampling technique was carried out to choose urban wards and schools, and data were assembled in two steps. Adolescent girls (10–19 years) studying in the government and private schools (both Hindi and English medium) of urban Rishikesh areas were included and screened for abnormal menstrual patterns. Equal numbers of age-matched controls were also selected. Data were assembled using a self-scrutinised pre-designed pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire. The independent t-test, Mann–Whitney test, McNemar test, Chi-square test and Fisher’s exact tests were applied for data analysis using the SPSS software version 23.0.

Results:

A total of 200 school-going adolescent girls (100 cases and 100 age-matched controls) were included in this study. The strength of getting symptoms of menstruation was high amongst cases, and it was found that adolescent girls with high menstrual symptoms had more chances of developing menstrual abnormalities (odds ratio = 6.6; confidence interval = 2.9–17.2). Menstrual abnormality was found significantly associated (P < 0.05) with reduced physical activity, unhealthy dietary patterns and family history of obesity amongst school-going adolescent girls.

Conclusions:

Unhealthy lifestyles, improper diet, reduced physical activity and family history of obesity were strongly associated with the abnormal menstrual cycle pattern.
Implications of Pimavanserin in Patients with Dementia-related Psychosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Desai Heet N. , Senaratne Mithum , Swami Shivling , Aye Soe Lwin , Trivedi Yash , Hamid Pousette
Published: April 2024

Psychosis in patients with dementia-related disorders has long been a challenging issue to be tackled by the medical fraternity. Although atypical antipsychotics (AP) are in use for the same reason, there has always been a question regarding their safety and tolerability in this group of patients. Pimavanserin, a serotonin receptor inverse agonist or antagonist, is the only drug that is Food and Drug Administration-licensed to be used for the treatment of Parkinson's disease psychosis. This systematic review, which was conducted in line with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses 2020, had the objective of examining the effects of pimavanserin in patients with dementia-related psychosis (DRP). Among the publications (January 1, 2013–July 12, 2023) we gathered and examined were case–control and cohort studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, clinical trials, literature reviews, and randomized and nonrandomized control trials. The databases used to construct this list of publications were PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar. These three databases yielded 157 reports in total once the relevant filters were applied. They were then further screened and put through quality evaluation processes, which led to the final nine papers that were included in this systematic review. We concluded from our review that pimavanserin proves to be a promising alternative for the treatment of DRP, showing significant improvements and fewer side effects compared to other atypical AP.
Prenatal Ultrasound Markers of Isolated Total Anomalous Pulmonary Venous Return and a Sequential Approach to Reach Diagnosis
Authors: Chih Wan-Ling , Ko Hsuan , Chang Tung-Yao
Published: April 2024

This article comprehensively reviews the literature concerning prenatal ultrasound findings of isolated total anomalous pulmonary venous return (TAPVR) and the application of specific sonographic markers to differentiate among the TAPVR types. These markers can be categorized as direct and indirect, based on either morphological features or hemodynamic changes in TAPVR. Indirect markers include the ventricular disproportion, an increased distance between the left atrium (LA) and the descending aorta, as well as the dilatation of superior vena cava or coronary sinus for supracardiac or cardiac TAPVR, along with abnormal pulmonary venous spectral Doppler patterns. Direct markers predominantly focus on the absence of a connection between the pulmonary veins and the LA. Some direct markers are specific to certain TAPVR types, such as the vertical vein. Diagnosing isolated TAPVR can pose challenges, but following a sequential approach can improve detection rates and outcomes. In cases with equivocal findings, additional follow-ups are recommended. The sequential approach described in the current article provides a step-wise methodology and sonographic markers for prenatal diagnosis of TAPVR, which can be utilized by fetal–maternal medicine specialists, obstetricians, and radiological technicians to ensure timely interventions.
Understanding Public Awareness and Practices of Nonsurgical Facial Dermal Fillers: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Nassar AA , Demyati AK
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Dermal fillers augment soft tissues by replacing lost volume in the skin or subcutaneous fat. Dentists and other professionals utilize or recommend facial fillers for cosmetic and therapeutic purposes.

Aims:

This study aims to investigate public awareness regarding using nonsurgical facial dermal fillers in Saudi Arabia.

Methods and Material:

A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered questionnaire distributed to a total of 400 males and females through social media platforms. The participants reside in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Descriptive statistics and the Chi-square test were employed for data analysis.

Results:

A total of 256 participants completed the survey, including 204 females and 51 males, with a mean age of 33.86 (SD = 10.5) years. Among the participants, 88 (34.4%) reported using facial fillers. Among them, only 46 (18%) were frequent consumers. Knowledge regarding correctly using facial fillers was generally high, especially for the lips (240, 94%), chin augmentation (203, 79.3%), and face lifting (226, 88.3%). However, participants’ knowledge needed improvement in other areas. Most participants were aware of the side effects, except for visual impairment (83, 32.4%) and blockage of the vessels (128, 50%).

Conclusions:

The findings highlighted a remarkable level of knowledge among participants regarding the uses of fillers. However, participants demonstrated low awareness of all possible side effects associated with the treatment. Participants had valid reasons for undergoing facial treatments. However, constraints preventing them from pursuing fillers included fear of unexpected results and financial limitations.
The Relationship Between Cancer Patients’ Supportive Care Needs and Their Attitudes Toward Complementary and Alternative Medicine
Authors: Çelik H , Aslan H
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Cancer patients have high supportive care needs related to the nature of the disease and treatment methods. To meet these needs or reduce symptoms, patients can be expected to resort to alternative treatment methods.

Aim:

To examine the relationship between the supportive care needs of cancer patients and their attitudes toward complementary and alternative medicine (CAM).

Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study involving 289 cancer patients at the Oncology Hospital in east of Turkey. Short-Form Supportive Care Needs Survey Questionnaire (SCNS-SF 29) and Holistic Complementary and Alternative Medicine Questionnaire (HCAMQ) were standard instruments used for data collection. The association between supportive care needs and attitude toward CAM was determined.

Results:

The mean age of the study participants was 56.7 ± 12.7 years. There were 180 females (62.3%) and 109 males (37.7%). The mean score of the SCNS-SF 29 of the study participant was 101.19 ± 33.97. It was found that the patients’ psychological needs were the highest, followed by health services and information, daily life, and sexuality needs, respectively. The mean score of the HCAMQ was 27.16 ± 9.54. There was a weak, significant negative correlation between HCAM and psychological supportive care needs (r: -0.240, P: 0.003). However, there was no significant relationship between needs related to health services information, daily life sexuality, and attitudes toward CAM.

Conclusions:

Cancer patients have high supportive care requirements. Those with high psychological needs have a positive attitude toward HCAM. Incorporation of HCAM in the care of cancer patients may improve their quality of care.
Risk Factors for Otitis Media with Effusion in Preschool and School Children in Calabar Municipality
Authors: Adekanye AG , Onwughalu BC , Mgbe RB , Umana ANU , Anisi CO , Somefun AO
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Predisposing factors for otitis media with effusion are multifactorial, ranging from genetic and anatomical abnormalities to environmental factors and inflammation of the nose and adjacent structures.

Aim:

The study determined the risk factors for otitis media with effusion (OME) among children in Calabar Municipality.

Methods:

This was a descriptive, cross-sectional, community-based study including children aged 1–10 years randomly selected from government and privately owned daycares, nurseries (preschool), and primary schools. The risk factors assessed included upper respiratory tract infection, allergic rhinitis, adenoid enlargement, acute otitis media, recurrent acute otitis media parental educational level, overcrowding (four children sleeping in a room), duration of breastfeeding, cleft palate, and Down’s syndrome. Allergic rhinitis was diagnosed when a child had at least two of the rhinological symptoms: nasal congestion, running nose, sneezing, itching of the eye or nose, and at least one of the following: history of allergy, family history of allergy, and positive history of asthma. The questionnaire was the research instrument used to assess the risk factors for OME. OME diagnosis was made with otoscopy and tympanometry. Data were collected and analyzed with IBM SPSS version 25, and a P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 24 daycare pupils, 141 nursery pupils, and 155 primary pupils were recruited into the study. The prevalence of otitis media with effusion was more in younger children than in older children and the relationship was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Female children were more statistically affected than male children (P = 0.007). Children with allergic rhinitis accounted for a higher proportion of those with OME than those without allergic rhinitis (26.7% vs. 11.6%), and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.007). The association between OME and upper respiratory tract infection, acute otitis media, and recurrent acute otitis media was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Multivariate binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors for the otitis media with effusion.

Conclusion:

There are many endogenous and exogenous risk factors for OME, but notable risk factors in our study were age 1–2 years, female sex, and allergic rhinitis.
Orofacial Cysts: A Single Institution Experience of 85 Cases in Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Nwoga MC
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Orofacial cysts are pathologic cavities that could be symptomatic and may cause facial disfigurement. The only epidemiologic report of such lesions in Southeast Nigeria studied jaw cysts from 1987 to 1996. New studies reflecting recent research findings and classifications on the subject in Southeast Nigeria are lacking.

Aim:

To determine the prevalence and distribution of orofacial cysts in a tertiary hospital in Enugu, Southeast Nigeria.

Methods:

A 10-year retrospective study of patients with orofacial cysts diagnosed by histology was carried out.

Results:

Orofacial cysts constitute 9.5% (85) of 897 orofacial lesions identified. The male-to-female gender ratio was 1.2:1. The mean age (± standard deviation) at the onset of the cystic lesion was 28.58 (±16.98) years. Developmental odontogenic cysts 52.9% (45) and salivary cysts 18.8% (16) were the most common group of orofacial cysts. The most prevalent orofacial cysts were odontogenic keratocysts at 25.9% (22), mucoceles 16.5% (14), and dentigerous cysts 14.1% (12). Straw-colored aspirates 34.8% (16) and dark brown aspirates 28.3% (13) were the predominant cystic contents. The mandible 45.9% (39) and maxilla 27.1% (23) were the commonest sites for orofacial cysts, while the lip 9.4% (8) was the most frequent soft tissue site. A significant association exists between anatomical site and cyst type at a 95% confidence interval with P = 0.000, X2 = 247.17. Unilocular radiolucency 62.5% (20) and multilocular radiolucency 34.4% (11) were the most common radiographic features.

Conclusion:

Developmental odontogenic cysts particularly odontogenic keratocysts were most prevalent while mucocele was the most common soft tissue cyst.