bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study of emotional states in candidates undergoing the diagnostic process for COVID-19
Authors: Kathiravan Sanjana , Rana Kirtan , Verma Meha , Kumar Krishan , Mohindra Ritin , Singh Shubh Mohan
Published: July 2021

Background:

Waiting for results is often associated with a state of anxiety and restlessness. The current study is intended to study the emotional state of people waiting for their results after undergoing COVID-19 testing.

Methods:

A descriptive study was done among 140 participants enrolled by simple random technique over a period of 1 month in May 2020. The participants who gave sample for COVID-19 were assessed for their emotional state at two stages – after giving sample and during the waiting period before telling results to them. A self-designed questionnaire focusing on the demographics and emotional state was submitted by the participants distributed to them as Google Forms. Wilcoxon signed-rank test and McNemar test were used to compare the statistical change in emotions over a period of time.

Results:

Around 63.6% and 68.8% of the participants had neutral emotional state after giving sample and before announcement of results, respectively. The mean score of agreement with decision to test was 9 ± 1.6 and discomfort related to testing was 4.6 ± 2.6 on Likert scale of 1–10. A statistically significant difference (P = 0.01) was observed in mean response for “something can be done to help” after giving sample (1.6 ± 0.4) and before announcement of results (1.8 ± 0.3).

Conclusions:

Patients undergoing testing for COVID-19 undergo psychological turmoil and use various coping methods. Patients endorsed various suggestions including quicker generation of results, environmental changes and counselling services to help them cope better. Incorporating these suggestions may improve the diagnostic process in patients with COVID-19.
Involvement of male spouse in care during pregnancy in rural areas of district Varanasi
Authors: Singh Reema , Kumar Alok , Kansal Sangeeta
Published: July 2021

Background:

Lack of male spouse involvement can affect the delays in the decision to take health care facilities, these are the main contributing factor for increasing maternal mortality and child death ratio. Men involvement in reproductive and sexual health including child health is important in reducing teenage pregnancy, maternal mortality, infant mortality, risky abortions, and total fertility rate. This study aimed to assess the awareness and practices of male spouse in maternal care services in rural areas.

Methods:

This is a community-based and cross-sectional study which was undertaken in randomly selected four villages of Kashi Vidyapeeth block, Varanasi. Total enumeration of women from the selected villages delivered within last 3 years was done and their husbands were interviewed by using a pre-designed, pretested interview schedule. Data on socioeconomic and demographic characteristics, awareness of various aspects and antenatal and postnatal care were collected and analyzed with SPSS 20 trial version.

Results:

Out of the total 130 interviewed male spouse (respondents), only 9.8% knows about minimum four antenatal visits. 26.9% were aware about the health related problems during pregnancy and only 7.7% were aware about the danger signs. Janani Suraksha Yojna was known to 11.5% only. 22.4% respondents accompanied their wife for antenatal registration and36.2% for T. T vaccination but 70.2% were present in the hospital during delivery. Logistic regression analysis shows that education of respondents is a key determinant of their involvement during pregnancy.

Conclusions:

This study identified overall low awareness of male spouse about antenatal visits and involvement during antenatal care. Therefore, there is a strong need to re-strategize the involvement of male spouse in reproductive health including antenatal period.
Assessment of frailty and outcome of an ethnogeriatric population in periurban slums of Delhi, India – An interventional strategy in a primary health care setting
Authors: Panda Meely , Islam Farzana , Roy Sushovan , Pathak Rambha , Kashyap Varun
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The burden of frailty and aging will have a profound impact on the economy along with the deteriorating clinical condition of the olds.

Aim:

This study aim was to assess frailty of an ethnogeriatric cohort and associate it with domains of quality of life in Delhi along with a follow-up outcome assessment.

Method:

Edmonton frail scale on an ethnogeriatric cohort of 200 individuals in periurban slums of Delhi was used and associated with quality of life, calculated by the WHO-BREF –QOL questionnaire. An interventional strategy for healthy aging was adopted, and a follow-up outcome assessment was done to look out for mortality or morbidity.

Result:

There were 37% frail with a mean score of 60 and 25% prefrails beyond 60 years with a significant increase in frailty with age. Females, single, working, and illiterate elderly were frailer as compared to their counterparts. Social domain followed by psychological domain of the QOL had least scores in the frail elderly. Olds, away from their place of origin were 25 times more likely to be frail and had lesser family integration, assessed by regression analysis. Nearly 6% died, with 21% of hospital readmissions after a 6-month follow-up.

Discussion:

An earlier start of assessment would give us more time to react and respond and be pro-active for healthy aging besides taking into consideration the diverse ethnography in our country.

Conclusion:

Cross-cultural variations need the physicians to address the health care disparities and language barriers so as to make interventions more convenient.
Exercise among pregnant females in maternity and children hospital in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, 2019
Authors: Aljehani Marwa A. , Alghamdi Liqaa F. , Almehwari Ohoud B. , Hassan Abdul-Hameed M.
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

To estimate the prevalence and explore factors of adequate physical activity among pregnant women in maternal care.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study conducted in healthy pregnant women visiting the antenatal clinics of the Maternity & Children's Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was administered face to face to collect the following: 1) sociodemographic and obstetrical data; 2) the Arabic version of the Pregnancy Physical Activity Questionnaire (PPAQ) developed by Lisa Chasan-Taber; and 3) barriers to exercise. The PPAQ enabled calculating average weekly energy expenditures in various activities, in metabolic equivalent (MET-h/week) and determining two levels of physical activity (active versus inactive).

Results:

Two hundred and five pregnant women were included: 49.3% were multiparous (gravida >2) and 55.6% declared exercising before pregnancy. The median overall energy expenditure was 108.0 MET-h/week, and household/caregiving activities accounted for the most important share (median = 45.7 MET-h/week), followed by transportation (12.6 MET-h/week). Of the total, 45.9% met the WHO criteria of adequate physical activity. There was no statistically significant difference between physically active and inactive participants across demographic factors. The most common barriers to being active were lack of energy, fatigue, or drowsiness (70.2%), lack of education by doctors (68.3%), and inconvenient weather (62.0%).

Conclusion:

Women in Saudi Arabia have decline in physical activity during pregnancy, and less than 50% maintain a level of exercise that enables beneficial effects on their overall health and pregnancy outcome. Health authorities and decision makers should consider implementing a national strategy and guidelines for the promotion of physical activity during pregnancy.
A study of risk factors and complications in elderly hypertensive subjects
Authors: Sri Hari TY. , Sree Sudha TY , Varghese Anjaly Mary , Krishna Sasanka K S B S , Thangaraju Pugazhenthan
Published: July 2021

Background:

Hypertension among the elderly is a major, highly prevalent yet treatable cardiovascular disease.

Aims & objectives:

Study aims to highlight the risk factors for hypertension in the elderly in an urban setup for the benefit of improving quality of life and also reduce the incidence of the cardiovascular related complications.

Methodology:

This is a Cross-sectional observational study. Included 125 study subjects based on selection criteria. The selected patients were subjected to a preformed and pretested schedule of questions pertaining to the risk factors.

Results:

Among the known hypertensive patients above 60 years of age, 125 subjects were included in the study. Smoking (62%), alcohol consumption (21%), family history of hypertension (26%), family history of diabetes (70%) were statistically significant risk factors observed for the development of hypertension.

Conclusion:

Sedentary lifestyle (physically less active) and anthropometric measures like overweight and obesity, abnormal waist circumference, and abnormal waist hip ratio were all identified as remarkable risk for hypertension. Myocardial infarction (20%), stroke (14%), and heart failure (12%) were the chart buster complications of hypertension in the vulnerable geriatric population.
The adverse effects of Ketamine on Procedural Sedation and Analgesia (PSA) in the Emergency Department
Authors: Dilip TS , Chandy Gina Maryann , Hazra Darpanarayan , Selvan Jagadesha , Ganesan Priya
Published: July 2021

Background:

Procedural sedation and analgesia (PSA) in the emergency department (ED) is mainly used for wound irrigation, reduction of fractures, and wound closure. Ketamine is one of the most commonly used drugs for PSA in the ED. The study was conducted in the ED of a large tertiary care hospital in southern India to evaluate the adverse effects of Ketamine on PSA.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective observational study performed in the ED for 6 months (October 2019–March 2020) in 151 patients who required Ketamine for PSA. Titrated doses of Ketamine was administered in all patients; hemodynamic variables and adverse events were recorded at timed intervals.

Results:

During the study period, a total of 151 patients in the ED required PSA. The mean age of the study Cohort was 37 ± 15 years, and males accounted for 83%. All individuals obtained adequate sedation and pain relief. It was found that the incidence of adverse reactions to Ketamine was higher in young people (18- to 40-year-old), which was 63%. The most common adverse reaction in the study population was 39 cases of hypertension (44.8%), followed by vomiting in 25 cases (28.7%) and delusion in 6 cases (4%). There was no significant adverse effect in any patients which necessitated admission.

Conclusion:

Ketamine is a drug with good analgesic, sedative properties and has been shown to have a good safety profile with minimal adverse events for use as PSA in ED. Side effects were most common in the younger adult age group and hypertension was the most common side effect.
Voluntary blood donation among female health care university students in Saudi Arabia, knowledge and status
Authors: Alaskar Shaddin A. , Alsadhan Jumanah A. , Alanazi Rawan M. , Alnashi Lama S. , Almutairi Razan K. , Chachar Yusra S. , Damlaj Moussab
Published: July 2021

Context:

Blood donation is an essential lifesaving procedure. There is a continuous effort to supply the high demand in hospitals.

Aims:

To assess the current status, knowledge, and attitudes of female health care students in King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) regarding blood donation.

Settings and Design:

A cross-sectional study was done with students in the female campus of KSAU-HS in Riyadh.

Methods and Material:

The sample was categorized based on the college and year of study. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed during the first semester of the 2018–2019 academic year to an estimated 20%–25% of students per batch.

Statistical analysis used:

Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 22 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL).

Results:

A total of 302 students completed the questionnaire with a median age of 21 years and a range of 18–30 years. Only 14.6% of the sample previously donated blood, with half of this group donating more than once. Just less than half (48.7%, n = 147) have been exposed previously to a university campaign related to blood donation. The majority (74.5%, n = 225) knew their blood type, small proportions (16.6%, n = 50) and (10.9%, n = 33) reported knowing family members or friends requiring blood products. More than half (57.6%) of the students admitted not having sufficient knowledge regarding blood donation, and the majority (75.1%) were not aware of the quantity of blood collected during a donation. Two-thirds, 31.4% and 32.1% agree and strongly agree, respectively, that blood donation is a duty that every individual should perform. Just more than half (53%) of the students strongly agreed that they are motivated to donate blood on moral or religious grounds.

Conclusion:

The proportion of prior blood donation in the sample was low. This is due, in part, to inadequate knowledge about the donation process. Given that many students felt motivated to donate, it is possible that raising awareness through educational interventions could increase donations in female health care students.
Role of immature platelet fraction (IPF) in sepsis patients
Authors: Tauseef Abubakar , Zafar Maryam , Arshad Wafa , Thirumalareddy Joseph , Sood Akshat , Farooque Umar , Nair Sunil , Mirza Mohsin
Published: July 2021

Sepsis is extremely common amongst critically ill patients and requires early diagnosis. Hence, identifying a biomarker that could acknowledge sepsis at its prior stage is of vital significance. Immature platelets are a percentage of circulating platelets that contain RNA and is a newer parameter that is measured using automated hematology analyzers in diagnosing sepsis. This review article discusses 10 articles that reveal the role of immature platelet fraction in predicting the onset of sepsis and its relationship with mortality in sepsis. Literature search was done using PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar and words like platelet indices and immature platelet fraction were typed in the search bar. The aim of this review article is to present a precise form of data that talk about immature platelet fraction (IPF) and its association with the severity and mortality of sepsis. Five out of 10 articles suggest that immature platelet fraction can predict the onset of sepsis and eight out of 10 articles suggest that increased IPF values are associated with high mortality.
Impact and perception about distant online medical education (tele-education) on the educational environment during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Vishwanathan Karthik , Patel Geetika Madan , Patel Devanshu Jayeshbhai
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The impact of online medical education using videoconferencing platforms on the education environment during the present COVID-19 pandemic is not known. The objectives were to evaluate the impact of online teaching using videoconferencing platforms on the education environment, satisfaction, and perception of the medical undergraduate students to online teaching.

Methods:

This prospective observational survey undertaken at a medical college included voluntarily participating medical undergraduate students from first (2nd semester), second (4th semester), and third year MBBS (6th and 8th semesters). The education environment was evaluated using the validated Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM). The perception of the students was evaluated using questionnaire with five point Likert scale response.

Results:

The response rate in our survey was 77.5% (465 out of 600 students). The mean DREEM score of medical undergraduate students was 132.3 ± 19.8. Domains of DREEM evaluated were students’ perception of learning (30.1 ± 6.3), students’ perception of teachers (29.7 ± 4.6), students’ academic self-perception (21.3 ± 4.9), students’ perception of atmosphere (32.5 ± 6.2), and students’ social self-perception (18.7 ± 3.5). Two hundred and fifty five students (54.8%) were extremely satisfied and quite satisfied with the online teaching–learning modalities. Two hundred and fifty eight students (55.5%) rated online learning methods to be very useful and quite useful during the lockdown period.

Conclusion:

The educational environment at our medical college was positive and students had a positive perception and attitude toward the role of the videoconferencing platforms for learning (telemedicine) during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown.
Tobacco smoking and depressive symptoms among male medical students in Al-Baha University
Authors: Alzahrani Hawthan A. , Alghamdi Mohammed S. , Alzahrani Abdullah A. , Alzahrani Abdulaziz A.
Published: July 2021

Background:

Smoking is a psychosocial problem regarding its causes mainly. In primary health care units, depression is the most common problem that affects the whole body and arises with physical, emotional, and cognitive symptoms. This study aimed to determine the prevalence rate of tobacco smoking and depressive symptoms among male medical students of Albaha university. Also, to investigate the association between tobacco smoking and depressive symptoms among male medical students of Albaha university.

Method:

A cross-sectional study was conducted on All the male medical students in the all-academic year levels of Al-Baha medical college using a self-administrated questionnaire.

Results:

Two hundred and eight medical students completed the study. About half of the participants (49.5%) weren't smokers. More than two-thirds (69.5%) started smoking in the first academic year. Our statistical analysis results reported; a significant correlation regarding the marital status (P-value = 0.000). The abnormality was significantly higher among current smokers (P-value = 0.013) and markedly lower among nonsmokers (P-value = 0.004). Regarding types of smoking, cigarette smokers were seriously depressed (P-value = 0.000).

Conclusion:

There is a relationship between smoking and depressive state among medical students. Researches must be conducted to explain this relation of depression symptoms with tobacco and not to increase the prevalence of smoking by helping students quit smoking.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of efficacy and safety of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine in the treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Mittal Niti , Mittal Rakesh , Gupta M. C. , Kaushal Jyoti , Chugh Ankita , Khera Daisy , Singh Surjit
Published: July 2021

Repurposed drugs like hydroxycloroquine (HCQ) and chloroquine (CQ) are being tested for potential therapeutic role in COVID-19. We aimed to evaluate efficacy and safety of HCQ and CQ in COVID-19. Using PubMed, EMBASE, medRxiv, Google Scholar, clinicaltrials.gov, electronic search was carried out to identify relevant articles till June 2020 with re-evaluation in last week of November 2020. Observational and interventional clinical studies comparing efficacy of CQ or HCQ to standard management or other drug/s for SARS-CoV-2 infection patients were included. Cochrane review manager version 5.3 was used for synthesis of meta-analysis results. For randomized controlled trials, risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane Collaboration risk of bias assessment tool, version 2.0 (ROB-2). ROBINS-I was used for quality assessment of observational studies. Overall evidence quality generated by review was graded as per GRADE Recommendation. A total of 903 studies were screened. Nineteen studies were included in synthesis of meta-analysis with total of 4,693, 1,626, and 6,491 patients in HCQ/CQ, HCQ/CQ + AZ and control groups, respectively. HCQ/CQ treatment was associated with significantly increased rates of virological cure (OR = 2.08, 95%CI = 1.36–3.17; P = 0.0007) and radiological cure (OR = 3.89, 95%CI = 1.35 – 11.23; P = 0.01) compared to control. HCQ/CQ had no difference in unadjusted mortality rate (unadjusted OR = 0.98 95% CI = 0.70–1.37, P = 0.89, random effect model) and adjusted hazard ratio for mortality (adjusted HR = 1.05, 95%CI = 0.86--1.29; P = 0.64). However, a significant increase in odds of disease progression (OR = 1.77, 95%CI = 1.46–2.13; P < 0.00001) and QT prolongation (OR = 11.15, 95%CI = 3.95–31.44; P < 0.00001) was noted. The results with HCQ/CQ and azithromycin combination were similar to HCQ/CQ mono-therapy. In the light of contemporary evidence on effectiveness of HCQ/CQ, judicious and monitored use of HCQ/CQ for treatment of COVID-19 patients is recommended in low to middle income countries with emphasis on no mortality benefit.

Registration number of Systematic review. Register in PROSPERO database: cRD42020187710
Together let us confront it
Authors: Varghese Sangeetha Merrin , Sheeja A.L , Samuel Johnson Abel K. , Sushan Abey , Nandini C.S , Chandy George M. , Rakesh P.S , Joseph Marina Rajan , David Alice , Mathew Geethu , Alexander Prince
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Hepatitis B is a potentially life-threatening liver infection caused by the Hepatitis B virus (HBV). The established routes of transmission are from mother to infant, sexual contact, and exposure to blood or body fluids. Though HBV is preventable by vaccine and robust infection control practices, outbreaks of HBV infection do occur in India. However, the state of Kerala with its health parameters, one among the best in the country, cannot afford to have continuing outbreaks. An unusual increase in the reported cases of Hepatitis B in a rural area of Pathanamthitta district of Kerala, called for an outbreak investigation.

Aims:

To describe the epidemiological features, to determine the risk factors associated with HBV transmission, and to suggest measures to prevent future transmission.

Methods:

A community-based case-control study (1:2) was undertaken. A total of 162 participants (54 cases and 108 age, gender, and neighborhood matched controls) took part in the study. Focus group discussions were conducted with subject experts to develop an interview schedule assessing 40 risk factors. It was further reviewed by the University of Sydney. Data was collected by trained Junior Health Inspectors and Junior Public Health Nurses of the Primary Health Centers. Data was analyzed using SPSS v. 20. Proportions were compared by Univariate analysis, sub-group analysis, and logistic regression. Population Attributable Risk (PAR) was also calculated.

Results and Conclusion:

More than 90% of the infections were IgM anti-HBc positive, suggesting a recent infection. Interventions during hospitalization [OR: 7.98 (95% CI – 2.17--29.4)], family history of Hepatitis B [OR. 4.14 (95%CI – 1.73--9.9)], and laboratory investigations [OR: 3.99 (1.72--9.31)] were found to be significant risk factors. PAR was highest for laboratory interventions (32%). Vaccinating household contacts and strict enforcement of infection control practices could substantially reduce the burden of this fatal disease.
Impairment of olfactory and gustatory sensations in severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 virus) disease
Authors: Tiwari Anurag , Patil Manisha B. , Nath Jishnu , Phukan Anuve H. , Aafaque Syed , Adika Sandeep , Kumari C. Meena , Kumar Sourya , Nayyar Abhishek S.
Published: July 2021

Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2 virus) disease had first appeared in December 2019 in Wuhan, China, and since then, it has emerged as a global threat to humanity. An early diagnosis and isolation are the most significant measures required to prevent its spread. Recent anecdotal evidence has suggested impairment of olfactory and gustatory sensations associated with corona virus disease (COVID-19). Angiotensin-converting enzyme-2 is an important aspect for the manifestations seen in this deadly viral disease. The associated olfactory and gustatory dysfunction can also lead to partial and/or complete loss of the ability to smell and taste in the early stages of disease onset. Evidence has also suggested that the presence of SARS-CoV-2 nucleic acid in human saliva makes it the carrier of the infectious viral disease and aids in its diagnosis. The present review focuses on the listed clinical manifestations in the form of olfactory and gustatory impairment in SARS-CoV-2 virus disease.
Total knee replacement at Southwestern Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Otaibi Mohammed Lafi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Knee replacement enables the surgical management of end-stage knee joint osteoarthritis. In Saudi Arabia, there has been a recent increase in total joint replacement surgery. However, there is insufficient literature regarding patient outcomes in this region. Here, we assessed characteristics of patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty and their improvements on knee society score, timed up and go test, and 2-min. walk test.

Methods:

Patients who underwent primary total knee replacement at our tertiary care private hospital in Abha from January 2013 to January 2020 were included. The same orthopedic surgery performed primary cemented cruciate-substituting knee replacement. Knee function was evaluated using the knee society scoring system, timed up and go test, and 2-min. walk test.

Results:

Out of 420 patients, 350 were females (83.33%) and 70 males (16.67%). The mean age was 69.50 ± 7.48 years (range, 48–90). Most patients had osteoarthritis (84.5%), either degenerative or secondary because of trauma. Knee society functional and knee scores were poor preoperatively (mean, 38.21 ± 9.65; SD, 36.89 ± 8.23) but improved postoperatively (mean, 81.42 ± 12.74; SD, 85.49 ± 11.69; P < 0.001). The timed up and go test significantly changed from 28.51 ± 3.29 s to 18.18 ± 3.17 s (P < 0.001) and 2-min. walk test from 51.83 ± 6.48 m to 85.72 ± 8.92 m (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Despite knee replacement's late acceptance in Saudi Arabia, there have been increased cases in recent years and excellent improvements in knee function. The resulting knee society functional and knee scores, timed up and go tests, and 2-min. walk tests were better or similar to results seen by other researchers worldwide.
Computer vision syndrome among Saudi population
Authors: Turkistani Alaa N. , Al-Romaih Arwa , Alrayes Majd M. , Al Ojan Abdulrazaq , Al-Issawi Wisam
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

In the recent era of technological evolution, electronic devices have become an essential part of our lives, not merely in professional work settings, but also in daily leisure activities. Although these devices have simplified our lives, they are associated with a wide variety of health complaints. Thus, the so-called computer vision syndrome (CVS) has become a growing public health problem and has gained significant attention as it plays an important role in the quality of life of each individual, which in turn has put an increased burden on the health care system. Eye symptoms are among the most reported, yet extraocular symptoms were frequently described as adding an extra load.

Method:

An electronic survey was distributed randomly through social media platforms among the general population in Saudi Arabia, between the period from July to December 2017, irrespective of their sociodemographic factors, aiming to determine the prevalence of CVS and to verify the most common associated risk factors.

Results:

In total, 690 participants were involved in our study, with a mean age of 33.8 years. Of these, 77.6% suffer from CVS, with eye-burning being the most common ocular symptoms (71%), as well as itching (67.5%), blurred vision (65%), tearing (62.3%), and other eye symptoms being reported. Neck/shoulder pain was found to be the most prevalent extra ocular symptom (85.2%); also back pain and headache are frequently expressed (78% and 70% respectively). A significant positive correlation was observed between CVS symptoms and time spent using the devices (P-value: 0.002).

Conclusion:

As technology advances, electronic devices have become a common tool that is used for different purposes on daily basis. We found in our study that the so-called computer vision syndrome is a growing public health problem. Thus, community education about the impact of such a lifestyle for proper handling of electronic devices must be addressed to avoid such health complaints.
Oral Health Status and Treatment Need in Geriatric Patients with Different Degrees of Cognitive Impairment and Dementia
Authors: Kumar Santosh , Jha Prakash C. , Negi Bhupender S. , Haidry Nazia , Kulkarni Pranay , Gulati Saakshi , Muttu Jayalakshmi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Health can be defined as more than an absence or lack of disease. It is generally related to personal, physical, social, along with spiritual wellness. However, the importance of good health is comparable with a progressive physical and cognitive limitations due to aging and hence, its clear definition is not possible. Hence, most of the important aims or goals in aging are unrelated to finding a cure but rather toward achieving an optimal function. Thus, a healthy aging process that encompasses physical, mental, psychological, and spiritual well-being is always much desired.

Aim and Objectives:

The aim and objective of this study is to assess the oral health status and degree of cognitive impairment along with dementia, if present.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective and cross-sectional analysis comprising of 300 study participants of which 150 are males while 150 are females. Cognitive ability is assessed using the Standardized Mini-Mental State Examination (SMMSE) scoring test. A score value lesser than or equal to 23 is considered as low, whereas a score of 24 and above represents normal cognitive abilities. Subjects with low score are selected for the study. Oral health status is assessed by examining a) total numbers of teeth present; b) presence or absence of denture use; and c) capacity for masticatory or chewing ability (recorded as yes or no). Demographic variables parameters include age, gender, and presence of smoking habit. Clinical parameters or variables are analyzed by employing the independent t-test and Chi-square test. Pearson's correlation analysis is used to test a correlation between impairment of cognitive capacity, oral health status, masticatory capability, and use of dentures, if present. Two-tailed t-test is used to derive a P value for significance.

Results:

The total numbers of teeth present are significantly correlated with a lower SMMSE score (R = + 0.56; P = 0.03) while a significant association is noted between ability for mastication and lower SMMSE score (P = 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study concluded that loss of cognition or dementia is closely related to a poor oral health status.
Prevalence of Common Mental Disorders among pregnant women—Evidence from population-based study in rural Haryana, India
Authors: Jha Shreya , Salve Harshal Ramesh , Goswami Kiran , Sagar Rajesh , Kant Shashi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Mental disorders during pregnancy is one of the major public health problem because of its effect on both mother and child.

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to assess the burden of common mental disorders (CMDs) among pregnant women in rural Haryana, North India.

Methods:

A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in 28 villages of rural Haryana in 2016. Pregnant women in the study area with period of gestation 25–34 weeks were enrolled and assessed for presence of CMDs in two phases. Primary Care Evaluation of Mental Disorders—Patient Health Questionnaire was used for screening and Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI) for diagnosis of CMDs.

Results:

A total of 457 pregnant women were included in the study. Mean age of pregnant women was 23.9 years (SD- 3.9). Prevalence of CMDs was 15.3% (95% CI, 12.0–18.6). Of these, major depression was 2.8% (95% CI, 1.4– 4.4), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder was 15.1% (95% CI, 11.8–18.4) as per MINI. On multivariate analysis, no statistically significant association was found between CMDs during pregnancy with any obstetric, sociodemographic determinants, and child health outcomes.

Conclusion:

High prevalence of CMDs, especially anxiety, observed among pregnant women in rural area necessitates the need for integration of screening of CMDs during routine antenatal care in India.
The relationship between the geochemical and mineralogical characteristics of Calcocambisol, colluvium and recent marine lake sediment of the narrow seashore intertidal zone: a case study from the Veliko Jezero (Mljet Island, Croatia)
Authors:   Faculty of Mining Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Ružičić Stanko , Durn Goran ,   Faculty of Mining Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Sondi Ivan ,   Faculty of Mining Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Mihaljević Lucija ,   Faculty of Mining Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Ivanić Maja ,   Ruđer Bošković Institute, Division for Marine and Environmental Research, Zagreb, Croatia
Published: July 2021

This study investigates the mineral composition, particle size distribution and geochemical characteristics of Calcocambisol, colluvium and recent marine lake sediment in a narrow intertidal seashore zone of the Veliko Jezero on the Island of Mljet (Croatia). The obtained results show that the fractions of Calcocambisol/colluvium less than 2 mm and 2 µm display similar particle size distribution (PSD) curves compared to marine lake sediments containing larger particles in these fractions. The smallest fractions of the investigated materials that are less than 1 µm show identical PSD curves. The bulk and clay mineral composition of the marine lake sediment show that the non-carbonate fraction is derived from weathering of the surrounding soils and colluvium containing quartz, feldspars and phyllosilicates (illitic material, kaolinites, chlorite, and a mixed-layer clay mineral, MLCM), as well as the authigenic formation of early-diagenetic pyrite, while one part is related to the yield of material by aeolian deposition (amphibole). The observed difference between the phyllosilicate mineral phases in the clay fraction of the Calcocambisol/colluvium and the carbonate-free clay fraction of the marine lake sediment is related to 1) the presence of chlorite in the marine lake sediment and 2) the higher content of MLCM in the Calcocambisol/colluvium. The chlorite in the marine lake sediment was inherited from the Calcocambisol/colluvium as a result of soil erosion prior to its complete destabilization in the soil. High Chemical Index of Alteration (CIA) values in the Calcocambisol and colluvium clearly indicate their intense weathering. Based on the Sm/Nd and Ti/Al ratios, it can be concluded that the aluminosilicates in the Calcocambisol, colluvium and marine lake sediment are of the same provenance. The distribution of each analysed element among the sequential fractions is very similar in both the Calcocambisol and colluvium. The highest concentrations for most of trace elements in the Calcocambisol, colluvium and marine lake sediment was determined in their residual fraction. Mn, Co and Pb show a different partitioning between the Calcocambisol/colluvium and marine lake sediment, respectively.
Assessment of the Geotouristic Values of Devil's Town, Serbia
Authors:   University of Priština in Kosovska Mitrovica, Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Department of Geography, Kosovska Mitrovica, Vukoičić Danijela , Srećković-Batoćanin Danica , Valjarević Aleksandar , Ristić Dušan , Nikolić Milena , Valjarević Dragana
Published: July 2021

Serbia is a country rich in geoheritage with eighty geomorphological sites now under protection. Although a canyon, the site of Devil’s Town is a unique geomorphological site in Serbia and deserves special attention. The geotouristic values of Devil's Town were assessed based on the analysis of its present state and comparison with three similar and nearby geosites on the Balkan Pennisula (the Sand Pyramids in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Stob and Melnik Earth pyramids in Bulgaria). The assessment was performed using a ‘modified geosite assessment model’ (M-GAM), which includes estimation of the main indicators and sub-indicators. Devil's Town has an average level of major and additional values. Indicators show that this geosite has great tourist, scientific and aesthetic value, as well as enough space for improving the ecological and functional values, as a basis for the development of tourism. Devil's Town displays a higher touristic value than the Sand pyramids and slightly lower than the Stob pyramids. However, in comparison with the Melnik Earth pyramids in Bulgaria, its touristic value is significantly lower. This study could serve as a guide for managing development strategies concerning decision-making and engagement in tourism of the analysed geosite, addressing the needs of modern tourists.
Abundance and diurnal activity patterns of hooded vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus Temminck,) in Addis Ababa abattoirs enterprise, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Teklemariam Mebrat , Afework Bezawork
Published: July 2021

Hooded vulture (Necrosyrtes monachus) is an African endemic scavenger listed as Critically Endangered species. The population is declining across its range and there is threat of significant decline in population and distribution in Ethiopia. Little efforts have been made to properly document the status of vulture population and their diurnal activity patterns in the country for ensuring long term conservation measures. A study was conducted in Addis Ababa Abattoirs enterprise, Ethiopia from November 2019 to January 2020 to investigate the abundance and diurnal activity patterns of hooded vultures. The abundance of these vultures was estimated by direct counts method at their feeding sites and scan sampling was employed to study the diurnal activity patterns of hooded vultures from dawn to dusk. Hooded vulture mean abundance was 216±40 at the abattoir. Their diurnal activity pattern showed that they were observed feeding, resting (perching, watching and basking), preening, roosting and others activities such as walking, drinking, chasing and flying. They spent 37.73% of their time in resting followed by others (including walking, drinking, chasing and flying) (27.73%). The major threat recorded for theses vultures in the abattoir includes shortage of food, human disturbances, negative attitudes and lack of awareness on the importance of the species. Further ecological studies and impacts of human activities on Addis Ababa Abattoirs enterprise should be conducted for the conservation of hooded vulture and other conspecifics in the area.
Solving the University course timetabling problem using bat inspired algorithm
Authors: Limota Ushindi , Mujuni Egbert , Mushi Allen
Published: July 2021

Many mathematical optimization problems from real-life applications are NP-hard, and hence no algorithm that solves them to optimality within a reasonable time is known. For this reason, metaheuristic methods are mostly preferred when their size is big. Many meta-heuristic methods have been proposed to solve various combinatorial optimization problems. One of the newly introduced metaheuristic methods is a bat-inspired algorithm, which is based on the echolocation behaviour of microbats. Bat algorithm (BA) and its variants have been used successfully to solve several optimization problems. However, from the No-free Lunch Theorem, it is known that there is no universal metaheuristic method that can solve efficiently all optimization problems. Thus, this study work focused on investigating the usefulness of BA in solving an optimization problem called Course Teaching Problem (CTP). Since BA was originally designed to solve continuous problems, and CTP is a combinatorial optimization problem, a discrete version of BA for CPT has been proposed and tested using real-life data from the Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE). The algorithm has produced promising results, as in each execution test, it generated a timetable in which all hard constraints were met and soft constraints were significantly satisfied within a few iterations.

Keywords: Combinatorial optimization, Timetabling problem, Metaheuristic algorithms, Bat algorithm.
Levels of selected toxic and essential elements in fish and oysters from Western Indian Ocean, Coast of Tanzania
Authors: Shilla Daniel A , Sawe Shovi F
Published: July 2021

Concentrations of toxic and essential elements in selected finfish and shellfish collected from Dar es Salaam and Tanga, Indian Ocean coast of Tanzania are presented. The elemental concentrations were determined using Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometer coupled with X-lab ProTM software. The mean concentrations of metals observed in finfish and shellfish collected from Tanga ranged from 3.40–5.75, 1.8–37.17, 3.5–7.1, 0.6–1.3, 0.53–0.73 and 16.80–96.70 mg kg–1 for As, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, respectively. For Dar es Salaam, the mean concentrations of metals ranged from 3.34–9.46, 2.90–30.53, 3.4–6.9, 0.7–1.0, 0.57–0.80 and 14.2–100.90 mg kg–1 for As, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, respectively. Thumbprint emperor showed the highest levels of Cu and Ni; octopus showed the highest values of As and Pb, while sardines showed the highest level of Mn. Oysters, used as pollution indicators in this study showed the highest elemental concentrations and exceeded their mean levels in finfish from Dar es Salaam by factors of 1.30, 7.15, 6.27, 2.72, 1.29 and 35.57 for As, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, respectively. In samples from Tanga, the metal concentrations in oysters were several times higher (3.76, 17.68, 1.12, 3.89, 1.88 and 66.92 for As, Cu, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn) than in finfish, respectively. Based on metal concentrations in oysters, it can be concluded that coastal waters are contaminated with heavy metals. However, with an exception of arsenic and copper, the elemental levels in finfish are within the maximum permissible levels recommended by various international standards and guidelines.

Keywords: Finfish, toxic elements, essential elements, pollution, EDXRF
Entrepreneurship among Pakistani Women in the United Kingdom: Exploring Opportunities and Constraints
Authors:   , Khan Adila
Published: July 2021

The multi-dimensional research field of entrepreneurship has been studied extensively. However, the work on female and ethnic female entrepreneurs, particularly Pakistani Female Entrepreneurs (PFEs) in the UK, is underrepresented. The limited research that has been carried out previously has broadly covered the South Asian group, however, this amalgamation is not at all homogenous. Two of the reasons for this limited research on PFEs are cultural and language barriers. This study was carried out in the context of institutional theory and investigated the impact of normative (cultural), regulative institutions and temporal dimensions on the entrepreneurial process. The research design, and my own status as an insider, allowed the breakdown of potential research barriers. I followed a qualitative research approach that included 15 un-structured interviews. Participants were selected from four cities (London, Birmingham, Bradford and Cardiff), creating a richer data set for analysis. Results showed that normative institutions play a much greater role than regulative ones. The most salient factor within the normative institutions is the patriarchal values of Pakistani society. These values have both positive (in terms of support) and negative (creating gender boundaries) influence. The main gender barrier that PFEs constantly negotiate is that freedom is given, and time is allowed to them to develop their businesses. However, the intensity with which these factors impact vary with time and in relation to other life events. The particular value of this study is in its theoretical contribution, through the application of institutional theory, in the field of ethnic entrepreneurship, with a particular focus on PFEs. This study also provides an awareness of difficulties and constant struggle that PFEs face in their entrepreneurial journey. However, the knowledge gained might be generalised to all working women who are career oriented in this cultural group. This knowledge will also contribute to creating improved social, cultural and economic policies by relevant bodies to empower these previously underrepresented women.
A Study of Several Financial Literacy Teaching Methods for Children
Authors: Saputra Jumadil , Susanti Dwi
Published: July 2021

Financial literation is very important to be applied to the child as early as possible. Financial literation will be very influential to the understanding and knowledge about finance and also the level of prosperity in the future. This paper aims to discuss several ways to teach children the functions and uses of money, and how to manage finance. The methods examined include: giving allowance to children, teach children to have savings, bring children do shopping, teach children to share, teach children that it takes effort to earn money and teach finance with a simple understanding. The results showed that the introduction of the knowledge of financial literacy in early age make children accustomed to manage their financial in the future. Therefore, parents must be able to effectively carry out financial literacy to children from an early age.
Training on Economic Empowerment for Fishermen Community in Ambulu Village, Losari Sub-District, Cirebon Regency, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Sukono Sukono , Riaman Riaman , Hasbullah Soeryana
Published: July 2021

The welfare of fishermen in Indonesia is still very low and many of them have not been able to meet their family's daily needs. This is caused by various factors that affect their economic condition. This paper aims to conduct economic empowerment training for fisheries communities in Ambulu Village, Losari District, Cirebon Regency, West Java, Indonesia. In this study, 115 respondents Ambulu village fishermen are included in the study. The reviewed factors include social factors, work system factors, and economic factors themselves in meet the needs of fishermen's family. As much as 79.13% of respondents were able to meet their daily needs, while 20.87% were unable to meet their daily needs. This shows that other efforts are needed from fishermen to fulfil their daily needs in order to improve their welfare.
Current Sensorless Microcontroller-Based Battery Management System with SOC and Active Cell Balancing
Authors: Ardiansyah Muhammad Fikri , Cahyadi Adha Imam , Wahyunggoro Oyas
Published: July 2021

Battery management system (BMS) has become an important research topic following the trend and development of the electric vehicle. Although research on Active Cell Balancing, SOC, and current estimation has been carried out, the previous work mostly focused on comparing and developing methods. In this research, we demonstrate the process of designing BMS hardware using a low-cost microcontroller and without using a current sensor. The SOC simulation results produce an RMSE of 0.0832% for the 100% -10% SOC-OCV curve, and the current estimation simulation produces an RMSE of 0.2576 A, while for testing using a 6-ohm pulse load, the RMSE error value is 0.3960 A. The Active Cell Balancing method was successfully performed in simulation with Simulink. Furthermore, our simulation and test results suggest that complex battery models and multiple SOC-OCV curves can be used for better current and OCV estimation results. Our experimental results are also useful to develop a guideline to design a microcontroller-based BMS.
A New 3-D Multistable Chaotic System with Line Equilibrium: Dynamic Analysis and Synchronization
Authors: Johansyah Muhamad Deni
Published: July 2021

This work introduces a new 3-D chaotic system with a line of equilibrium points. We carry out a detailed dynamic analysis of the proposed chaotic system with five nonlinear terms. We show that the chaotic system exhibits multistability with two coexisting chaotic attractors. We apply integral sliding mode control for the complete synchronization of the new chaotic system with itself as leader-follower systems.