bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding malnutrition amongst patients with chronic kidney disease in China: A qualitative study
Authors: Zhu Shengrui , Mohd Yusoff Dariah , Yusoff Hafzan , Cheng Kueh Yee , Feng Xiujuan , Chen Hongfang
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) can be complicated by malnutrition, which has adverse implications on patients’ health outcomes and quality of life. CKD patients from different sociocultural contexts may have varying perceptions of knowledge, attitudes, and practices of malnutrition. However, information on the perception of malnutrition in patients with CKD is limited. This study aimed to explore and describe the knowledge, attitude, and practice of patients with CKD disease regarding malnutrition.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A qualitative-descriptive design was used. Thirteen participants were selected through a purposive sampling technique among malnourished CKD patients from a hospital in Xi’an Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine between November 2022 and January 2023. Data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews until data saturation. All participants were informed about the study. Data obtained were analyzed by content analysis.

RESULTS:

Three main categories and seven subcategories were extracted from the data analysis: 1) knowledge (basic knowledge acquisition and understanding, knowledge misconceptions, and confusion, nutrition knowledge, and culture collision); 2) attitude (negative attitudes and adverse situations, positive attitude and self-awareness); 3) practice (disadvantageous and passive practice, favorable practice).

CONCLUSION:

This study provided insight into the knowledge, attitude, and practice of malnutrition in patients with CKD. Our findings can serve as important baseline data for the development of future interventions that can help reduce the risk of malnutrition, slow disease progression, and improve the quality of life in patients with CKD.
Relationship between parenting style and academic resilience of adolescent students with special reference to Jorhat district, Assam
Authors: Chutia Saswati , Swargiary Jagat
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Parenting is the most vital and crucial responsibility, although it is often overlooked. Research studies have found that close relationship with parents is associated with the positive development of a child. Academic resilience is one of the key factors forthe positive development of students. “Academic resilience refers to a student’s ability to deal with failure, academic setbacks, and so on”. Several research investigations have shown numerous factors that aid in the promotion of academic resilience among students. Parenting is one of them. Therefore, this study tries to investigate the strength and direction of the relationship between parenting style and academic resilience.

MATERIAL AND METHOD:

Descriptive survey method has been employed in this study. The study was conducted in three govt. high schools of Jorhat district, Assam, India under the SEBA (Secondary Board of Education). The sample of the present study consists of 101 high school students studying in class X, which include both boys and girls. Data were collected by administering two standardized tools to the sample students.

STATISTICAL TECHNIQUE USED:

Pearson Product–Moment correlation has been used in this study.

RESULT:

Results indicate that there a exist significant favorable association between democratic parenting style and academic resilience of adolescent students. It is also found that there exists a low correlation between autocratic parenting style and academic resilienceof adolescent students. The correlation between permissive parenting style and adolescent students’ academic resilience is also very low. Also, it has been found that there exists a low or weak correlation between uninvolved parenting style and academic resilience of adolescent students.

CONCLUSION:

The findings of this study indicate a statistically significant positive correlation between different parenting styles and the academic resilience of adolescent students. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that future research be conducted to investigate whether certain parenting styles can predict the academic resilience of adolescent students.
Effectiveness of nurse-led intervention on weight reduction among adults in urban Puducherry – A randomized controlled pilot trial
Authors: Krishnasamy Vembu , Jayaram Kumari Manjini , Jayaseelan Venkatachalam , Shanmugam Ramesh , Sadan Vathsala
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

The recent spike in the incidence of type 2 diabetes is most likely caused by the obvious rise in the prevalence of overweight and obesity. The risk of developing noncommunicable illnesses can be prevented and reduced with even modest weight loss. This study was conducted with the aim of evaluating the effectiveness of a nurse-led intervention (NLI) strategy on weight reduction among adults in urban Puducherry.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A two-arm, parallel-group, randomized controlled study with an open label was conducted with obese adults in urban areas of Puducherry, namely Nesavalar colony and Govindanpet, from November 2022 to February 2023. Totally, 88 obese adults were randomized using a simple random sampling method to either the NLI arm or the general care (GC) arm. WHO STEPS (version 3.2) questionnaire was adopted to gather baseline and end line data. NLI arm participants received NLI and GC arm participants received GC from urban primary health center. In statistical analysis, the proportion was used to summarize categorical variables. The parametric and nonparametric tests were applied based on the variable type and normality of the data. Multiple linear regressions were used with outcome changes in weight in the NLI arm.

RESULTS:

At 16 weeks, the NLI arm lost a mean weight of − 2.58 kg and the GC arm gained 0.38 kg with a mean difference in weight of 2.96 between arms. A significant reduction was found (P < 0.001) in weight, waist circumference, body mass index, and also found significant improvement in cholesterol profile and thyroid stimulating hormone.

CONCLUSION:

This community-based NLI study is effective for weight reduction in urban Puducherry and it lowers the risk of developing noncommunicable diseases among adults. Due to the larger size of the geographical area and the more number of clusters, a stringent follow-up plan and extra manpower must be created for the main study.
Explaining the concepts and examples of conflict of interest and its management in the medical laboratory system of Iran: A scoping review
Authors: Dargahi Hossein , Kooshkebaghi Mahdi , Isazadeh Nikzad
Published: July 2024

The occurrence of conflict of interest (CoI) is assumed to be a big challenge facing all healthcare sectors, including the medical laboratory system (MLS). Therefore, this study aimed to explain the concepts and examples of CoI and its management within this system. This scoping review was fulfilled in 2023 in Iran. To this end, the Persian and English keywords of this study were searched on the Persian and English databases based on the Medical Subject Headings (MeSH) and the Arksey and O’Malley methodological framework. All retrieved articles were then imported into EndNote X8, and their quality was evaluated via the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). In total, 104 articles, of 6875 sources extracted, published from 2000 to 2023, were recruited following the identification and screening stages. Most articles had reported the maximum number of CoI examples in the MLS in diverse nations, including Iran, particularly in terms of structural, financial, objective, and subjective issues and primary and secondary interests among policymakers and higher-ranking managers of the healthcare system. Currently, CoI in healthcare systems, including the MLS, is unavoidable, but the best strategy, in preference to removing this situation, is to manage it under potential conditions before its occurrence and conversion into corruption. In view of that, it is recommended to provide effective training programs, increase transparency at work, facilitate compliance with professional guidelines, reform organizational structures and processes in the public sector, and establish policies best suited to manage CoI in the MLS of Iran.
Investigating the effect of an Orem-based self-care educative supportive nursing system on the joint function of patients with knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Talebianpoor Elham , Mohammadi Hamid Reza , Dehbanizadeh Abolfazl , Afrasiabifar Ardashir , Najafi Doulatabad Shahla
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It is a common progressive joint disease characterized by chronic pain and functional disability, which disturbs functional movements, body balance, and quality of life in patients with knee osteoarthritis. This study investigates the effect of an Orem-based self-care educative supportive nursing system on the joint function of patients with knee osteoarthritis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This semi-experimental paper studies 130 patients with knee osteoarthritis. The patients are selected using convenience sampling and randomly assigned to intervention and control groups equally. The K00S questionnaire was used to collect patients’ demographic information and other information relating to their knees’ function. We carried out interventions for six weeks, with a session of 45 to 60 minutes each week. Data were collected before the intervention and three months after the intervention. SPSS 21.0 and descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the collected data at the significance level of 0.05.

RESULTS:

The results show significant differences between the two groups in terms of joint symptoms (P = 0.001), pain (P = 0.001), daily activities (P = 0.001), sports and recreational activities (P = 0.001), and quality of life (P = 0.02). In other words, there was a significant difference in the average subscale scores of activities in all five dimensions between the intervention and control groups (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

Orem’s self-care model has a positive and significant effect on the functional movement of patients with knee osteoarthritis and improves their joint function.
Comparing the effectiveness of emotion-focused and cognitive-behavioral therapies on body image, anxiety, and depression in women with PCOS
Authors: Amirshahi Mansoureh , Saremi Ali Akbar , Nouri Reza , Karbalaee Mohammad Hossein , Hosseini Sadat Robabeh
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disease that is usually seen in women of reproductive age and causes complications such as body image dissatisfaction, anxiety, and depression. This study was done with the aim of comparing the effectiveness of emotion-focused therapy (EFT) and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) on body image, anxiety, and depression in women with PCOS.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This research was semi-experimental with a pre-test–post-test design with control and follow-up groups. The statistical population included all women with PCOS who were referred to the infertility clinic of Afzalipur Hospital in Kerman in 2022. A total of 45 patients were selected as a sample using the convenience sampling method and then they were randomly assigned to two experimental groups (15 people each) and a control group (15 people). After the pre-test, the experimental groups were subjected to the interventions of EFT and CBT, and afterward the post-test was performed. Cash et al., body image questionnaire, and Beck anxiety and depression questionnaires were used. Data were analyzed using PSS21 software and analysis of variance.

RESULTS:

The findings revealed that the effectiveness of EFT and CBT on body image, anxiety, and depression is significant (P < 0.05). The comparison of the two therapy showed that the effect of CBT on body image, anxiety, and depression is more than EFT. Moreover, there was no statistically significant difference between the post-test and follow-up scores (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION:

According to the results, CBT can reduce dissatisfaction with body image, anxiety, and depression in women with PCOS, therefore it is recommended to use this therapy.
The effect of escape room clinical evaluation method on satisfaction, learning, and preparedness to practice as interns of nursing students: A quasi-experimental quantitative study
Authors: Ghiamikeshtgar Najmeh , Ghaljaei Fereshteh , Ghaljeh Mahnaz , Taherizade Bentolhoda , Mahmoodi Nasrin , Sharifi Simin
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Clinical evaluation utilizing the escape room game is recognized as a novel method for assessing the team-oriented performance of learners. It is a tool for evaluating teamwork skills in clinical settings, which can boost student motivation and learning. This study aimed to investigate the effect of clinical evaluation through escape rooms and feedback provision through the PEARLS (promoting excellence and reflective learning in simulation) approach on pre-internship nursing students’ satisfaction, learning, and preparedness to practice as interns.

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

The current research is a quasi-experimental quantitative study conducted with a census sample of 42 sixth-semester undergraduate nursing students in 2022. The escape room method was utilized to evaluate entry preparedness into the clinical field. Reliable and valid researcher-made questionnaires were administered to assess the impact of the intervention on learning, satisfaction, and preparedness. The data were analyzed in SPSS version 26 using descriptive and inferential tests. The significance level was considered to be less than 0.05.

RESULTS:

Twenty-six males and 16 females constituted the 42 participants (mean age: 23.46 years). The clinical evaluation method of the escape room game was deemed satisfactory or highly satisfactory by 80% of students. From the perspective of 72% of students, escape rooms were definitely or highly effective in shaping their preparedness to enter the clinical field. Comparing the students’ mean learning scores (self-assessment of clinical skills) before and after the test revealed that their post-test scores (55/16 ± 13/33) were significantly higher than their pre-test scores (45/58 ± 16/58) (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

It appears that using the escape room evaluation method in conjunction with other student evaluation methods has helped improve students’ interpersonal communication, problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and teamwork. The experience of working in a group not only improves these skills and is enjoyable to students but can also enhance their learning. Clinical education is dependent on teamwork. The escape room test can be viewed as a valuable tool for encouraging students to collaborate as a team. Therefore, it is suggested that students in all medical education groups be evaluated clinically using this test.
The effectiveness of pubertal health group counseling based on problem-solving, on body image concerns and anxiety in adolescent girls: Study protocol
Authors: Nazmi Sana , Nikbakht Hossein-Ali , Gholamnia-Shirvani Zeinab , Behmanesh Fereshteh , Azizi Alireza
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Body image concerns are accepted as a pervasive problem by a large segment of society. Problem-solving counseling is one of the practical counseling techniques that mainly focuses on improving people’s adaptability in stressful situations. We intend to determine the effectiveness of pubertal health group counseling based on problem-solving on body image concerns and anxiety in adolescent girls.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A semi-experimental study will be conducted on 12–13 years old students in Babol (Mazandaran, Iran). One hundred people were determined as the final Sample size (50 people in each group) and will be selected to enter the study. A multistage sampling method will be used. The students of the intervention group will receive the necessary training in the problem-solving method regarding pubertal health, once a week for six weeks. Students in the control group will not receive education during the intervention period. Sociodemographic questionnaire, Littleton’s body image concern, and Zong’s anxiety will be used to evaluate students’ body image concerns and anxiety. Analyzes will be done by statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 25 software and a significance level of 5% will be considered. Descriptive statistics and frequency percentage will be determined for classification variables. Median, range, and mean along with standard deviations (SD) will be calculated. The Chi-square test, Repeated Measures ANOVA and ANCOVA test will be used in this study. Percentage prevalence for each categorical variable is calculated with 95% confidence interval (CI).

DISCUSSION:

The effectiveness of counseling based on problem-solving has been reported in various studies on adolescent puberty health concerns and common adolescent mental health problems, hence its application on girls’ body image can be effective.
The effectiveness of the stroke sign by sticker: Enhancing stroke knowledge among village health volunteers in community care
Authors: Satsarn Rodsawan , Sarakshetrin Atiya , Sujimongkol Chinakorn , Sriyasak Atcharawadee , Ninkhan Phattharalapha
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Stroke is a global and Thai concern. Village Health Volunteers (VHVs) are vital in community healthcare but lack stroke knowledge. Prior efforts to improve their knowledge were ineffective. The “Stroke Sign by Sticker” application was created to enhance VHV literacy. To evaluate the effectiveness of the “Stroke Sign by Sticker” line application in enhancing stroke awareness among VHVs.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:

The study was conducted in a health community setting using a quasi-experimental design. The study was conducted within a healthcare community in Thailand. The “Stroke Sign by Sticker” mobile application was developed specifically for the LINE platform. The knowledge scores were measured using a tool that demonstrated a high validity coefficient of. 93. The intervention itself lasted for 3 weeks. The entire process, from the development of the mobile application to the assessment of its effectiveness, took place during the period of 2021-2022. The R program was used to implement the analysis of covariance method for adjusting pretest scores as a covariate.

RESULTS:

A total of 60 participants were included, with half assigned to the experimental group and the other half to the control group. The post-test knowledge scores were the main outcome measure of interest. The results showed a significant effect of the independent variable, with the experimental group exhibiting a higher mean knowledge score compared to the control group (F = 24.26, P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The “Stroke Sign by Sticker” line application demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting stroke knowledge among VHVs, underscoring its potential as a valuable tool for health promotion and education within healthcare settings.
Prevalence and patterns of workplace cyberbullying among dental and medical undergraduate students. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kumari Roopam , Prasad Raj Kishore , Davis Dilu , Patil Pankaj Bajirao , Choudhury Basant K. , Mulla Munaz , Rajguru Jagadish Prasad
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cyberbullying is an act of bullying that is conducted through the use of technology in an online mode such as over social media platforms or via text-based messages. It is an intentionally repeated aggressive activity in which harm is inflicted on a person using electronic media. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and pattern of workplace cyberbullying in undergraduate students inmedical and dental streams.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study used a mixed explanatory cross-sectional study design by making use of a structured questionnaire for the survey. This “two-phase” mixed design utilized qualitative data for the explanation of quantitative observations. The selected study subjects were three hundred undergraduate medical and dental students. To obtain data, an electronically fabricated questionnaire (i.e. Google Form) consisting of open- and closed-ended questions was distributed. All questions were designed for studying prevalence and patterns of cyberbullying that had been experienced by the victims. Obtained data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science software version 20.0 (SPSS v20.0) based on a Likert-based questionnaire scale in which responses were recorded in “yes” or “no” format. The statistical tool employed was the “Chi-square” test.

RESULTS:

On analysis of the level of knowledge, 92% of the study sample was aware of cyberbullying as different from the physical form of bullying. The most commonly employed tools for handling cyberbullying were conferencing (0.66% of cases) and disciplinary tools (5% of cases). 14.33% of cases involved the use of investigations, and 2.66% made use of victim counseling. Most of the students, along with their parents (89%), were of the opinion that teachers must have active participation in cyberbullying cases. On statistical comparison, the P-value was found to be less than 0.05.

CONCLUSION:

In the present study, cases of cyberbullying were found to be less prevalent in medical and dental undergraduate students although there was knowledge regarding this form of bullying in studied participants.
Prevalence of depression and anxiety among older persons residing in Thoubal district, Manipur
Authors: Devi Khundrakpam Anita , Singh R. K. Lenin , Gandhi Sailaxmi
Published: July 2024

Background:

Among the elderly population, the most common psychiatric conditions include depression and anxiety, which often go untreated or unrecognized, owing to the lack of knowledge and misperceptions about these conditions. Timely identification and treatment improve the quality of life of the elderly. As community studies were scarce in Manipur, the present study was undertaken.

Aim of the Study:

This study aims to assess the prevalence of depression and anxiety among older persons residing in Thoubal district, Manipur.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 352 older persons, aged 60 years and above residing in a rural area of Thoubal district of Manipur in India for 1 year. The elderly subjects were selected randomly by lottery method. The validated Manipuri translation of the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 short version and the Geriatric Anxiety Scale-10 were used to assess depression and anxiety. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 26 for Windows.

Results:

The overall prevalence of depression was 102 (29.0%), of which 65 (18.5%), 31 (8.8%), and 6 (1.7%) had mild, moderate, and severe depression, respectively. Gender, age, marital status, no income, presence of chronic illnesses, and substance use were significantly associated with depression. The overall presence of anxiety among respondents was 91 (25.9%), out of which 59 (16.8%), 27 (7.7%), and 5 (1.4%) were mild, moderate, and severe, respectively. No income, presence of chronic illnesses, and substance use were significantly associated with anxiety. During binary logistic analysis, a higher risk of developing depression was found in females, widows/widowers, unemployed, no income, and elderly with diabetes and alcohol use, whereas the elderly with hypertension, both hypertension and diabetes, and tobacco use had a higher risk of developing anxiety.

Conclusion:

The results confirmed that there is a high prevalence of depression and anxiety among the rural elderly population. There is a need to improve geriatric mental health-care services including timely screening, monitoring, and implementing preventive programs at the primary health-care level.
Elderly transgender mental health: Global and local challenges
Authors: Thakkar Anoushka , De Sousa Avinash , Karia Sagar , Merchant Heena
Published: July 2024

Elderly transgender mental health has been a neglected facet of mental health for many years. The current article reviews the global and local challenges faced when catering to elderly transgender mental health. These include trauma and stigma that may be faced when seeking mental health services, in addition to the stigma of belonging to the transgender community. There are many barriers in access to health-care services that have been highlighted, and there are factors such as social discrimination, victimization, hate crime, and domestic violence that add to the barriers. Lack of proper clinics that cater to their needs, improper coverage in health-care insurance, and lack of coverage of sex-change operations also add to the existing burden. Workplace issues and their impact on mental health along with stigma and workplace discrimination are also discussed. The review tries to give an overview of the issues faced, so that clinicians treating these populations are appraised of the same.
Transnational aging: A scoping review on the mental health and well-being of older migrant parents
Authors: Ghimire Animesh , Qiu Yunjing
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

This scoping review addresses a critical yet underresearched area in migration studies: the mental health and well-being of older parents in first-generation migrant families. It explores how these individuals navigate the complexities of transnational aging and the implications for their mental health and well-being. The study is essential in evolving global migration and demographic shifts.

Methods:

This review followed Arksey and O’Malley’s methodological framework for scoping reviews and is reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses-ScR checklist. The review extensively examined both academic and grey literature in English, without any restrictions on the publication date. A total of 8 studies were carefully selected for analysis, ensuring a broad representation of methodologies and viewpoints.

Results:

The review identified five primary themes that significantly impact the mental health and well-being of older parents in first-generation migrant families: (a) psychological well-being and depression, (b) social networks and family ties, (c) economic factors, (d) acculturation and cultural adaptation, and (e) policy implications and support systems.

Discussion:

The review underscores the necessity of a multidimensional approach that considers aging, cultural, and socioeconomic factors. When focusing on mental health and well-being, studies primarily centered on medical and chronic conditions were excluded. This selection criterion shapes the review’s outcomes, emphasizing the psychosocial and cultural dimensions over direct medical aspects. Future research could incorporate health-related studies to present a more comprehensive understanding of the transnational aging experience. In addition, further research could explore the impact of global health challenges, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, on this demographic, deepening our understanding of their unique experiences and needs in diverse sociocultural and health contexts.
Zodiac Signs Personality Traits and Dental Specialty
Authors: Konki Akshitha , Pavani Nijampatnam P. M. , Pachava Srinivas
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Astrologers assume that the sun sign dictates personality. A relationship between personality traits and sun signs exists, though a degree of relation could vary. Selecting a career is thought to be dependent on a number of factors and the perceived suitability of one’s personality characteristics to a certain career is one among other factors.

Aim:

The aim of the study was to explore zodiac signs and related personality traits of dental students and their perception toward dental specialties.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among (n = 447) undergraduates and postgraduate dental students in Andhra Pradesh. A pretested 3 questionnaire was used to collect data regarding demographics, education level, zodiac-related personality traits, and preferred dental specialty, which was assessed using Google Forms. A Chi-square test was done to know the association.

Results:

There is a statistical significance (<0.001) between the zodiac sign and the dental specialty they prefer. Majority of extroverts preferred surgery and conservative, while introverts chose pedodontics and periodontics. Ambiverts chose orthodontics and public health dentistry.

Conclusion:

Different personality types choose different specialties. There might be connections to zodiac signs that demand further research.
A Cross-sectional Survey on the Pursuit of PhD in Health Sciences Institutions
Authors: Shekharappa Hema Tyavanige , Shirahatti Ravi V.
Published: July 2024

Context:

PhD is one of the programs pursued by faculty working in health sciences institutions. It is valuable to know about the perceived challenges and support available for the faculty to pursue PhD.

Aims:

The aim was to study the factors affecting the pursuit of PhD by faculty employed in institutions offering medicine and dentistry in the state of Karnataka.

Settings and Design:

This was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey conducted among 366 faculty across 22 medical and 12 dental institutions.

Subjects and Methods:

The questionnaire was administered online after content and face validation.

Statistical Analysis:

The Mann–Whitney U-test and Spearman’s correlation coefficient were used.

Results:

Knowledge creation (86.1%), personal career advancement in the form of promotions (75.5%), and contribution to the health of society or community (73.8%) were generally perceived as the motives to pursue PhD. Work commitments in the department (80.6%) and lack of appropriate academic position after completing PhD (79.5%) were identified as the major factors obstructing the enrollment for PhD. Respondents reported that the scientific rigor of research might be undermined by career-related motives (70.7%). Routine professional activities like clinical work (72.7%) and academic work (71.9%) were reported to be adversely affected while pursuing PhD. 68.8% of faculty believed that a PhD holder would be a better researcher.

Conclusions:

Both personal and altruistic motives influence the pursuit of PhD. Many factors hinder the pursuit of PhD and the conduct of quality research. Institutional support may enhance the enrollment.
Awareness of Parents toward Preventive Dentistry in North Maharashtra – A Cross-sectional Survey
Authors: Jadhav Harish Chaitram , Prashanth V. K. , Patil Snehal Sakharam , Ugale Aakansha , Uchil Samiksha , Khairnar Mahesh Ravindra
Published: July 2024

Background:

Oral health is an important component of overall health. In the initial age, primary teeth play an important role in the development of speech, chewing, maintaining space, and guiding the eruption of permanent. Dental caries, malocclusion, early childhood caries (ECC), and trauma are the main diseases of the oral cavity.

Aim:

Assessment of the awareness regarding preventive dental procedures among parents residing in the North Maharashtra Region.

Materials and Methods:

The study was a cross-sectional survey consisting of a questionnaire conducted on parents of children in the North Maharashtra Region with a sample size of 220. A structured questionnaire was formulated with 15 questions in English which was translated into the local language (Marathi) for better understanding of parents. The first part of the questionnaire was based on demographic data and the second part consisted of 15 multiple-choice close-ended questions. Questions regarding preventive treatment of dental caries, ECC, topical fluoride, fluoridated toothpaste, pit and fissure sealant, dental habit-breaking appliances, malocclusion, mouthguards, and space maintainers. Questions regarding adverse habits such as thumb-sucking, tongue-thrusting, and nail-biting were also included.

Results:

About 57.7% of parents visited the dentist after pain. 52.7% of parents were unaware of dental caries and ECC and were not aware that dental caries is a preventable disease.

Conclusion:

Parental knowledge regarding preventive dental procedures is found to be limited as the utilization of these procedures.
Prevalence of Drooling among 5–10 Year-old Cerebral Palsy Children in Chennai: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Kumar Subramanian Anu Krishna , Madankumar Parangimalai Diwakar
Published: July 2024

Aim:

The present study assessed the drooling among 5–10 year-old cerebral palsy (CP) children in a tertiary care hospital in Chennai and measured the drooling frequency and severity among them.

Materials and Methods:

Drooling was measured both quantitative and qualitatively. The drooling frequency score was recorded using the 5 min Drooling Quotient (DQ5) Scale. Children with CP were assessed for drooling under two different conditions (active and rest) totally for 10 min. The drooling assessment was done using the Thomas-Stonell and Greenberg classification. The severity of drooling was recorded as (1) dry - never drools, (2) mild - only lips wet, (3) moderate - wet on lips and chin, (4) severe - drools to the extent that clothing becomes damp, and (5) profuse - clothing, hands, tray, and objects become wet. The frequency of the drooling is recorded as (1) never drools, (2) occasionally drools, (3) frequently drools, and (4) constantly drools. Statistical analysis was performed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version.

Results:

A total population of 110 children were included in the study. Among the 110 patients, 82 (74.5%) were males and 28 (25.5%) were females with a mean age of 7 years ± 1 year and 9 months. The prevalence of drooling among the CP children in this study was found to be 94.5% (104 children). The average DQ score for males during rest was 55.5 and during activity was 55.87. For females, the average DQ score for males during rest was 55.5 and activity 56.18. A significant negative correlation exists between age and drooling frequency and drooling severity too.

Conclusion:

The present study demonstrated a significant association between drooling and age.
Enhancing Precision in Endodontic Procedures: An In vitro Investigation of Magnification and Enhanced Visualization
Authors: Ganesan S , Basheer Syed Nahid , Kumar Ohm Nijandhan , Chohan Hitesh , Murugesan Sabari , Subramani Savadamoorthi Kamatchi
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Endodontic procedures require precise manipulation and visualization to achieve optimal treatment outcomes. Magnification and enhanced visualization tools, such as dental loupes and dental operating microscopes (DOMs), have been introduced to enhance precision in endodontic practice.

Materials and Methods:

Extracted human teeth with single-rooted canals were divided into two groups: a control group without magnification and an experimental group with magnification and enhanced visualization. Endodontic procedures, including access cavity preparation, cleaning, shaping, and obturation, were performed on both groups. The experimental group utilized either dental loupes or a DOM for enhanced visualization. Treatment outcomes were assessed based on predefined criteria, including the quality of access cavity preparation, canal cleanliness, shaping, and obturation. Scores were assigned to each criterion to quantify treatment precision.

Results:

The use of magnification and enhanced visualization significantly improved precision in endodontic procedures compared to the control group. Access cavity preparation in the experimental group resulted in more conservative tooth structure removal and improved visualization of canal orifices. Canal cleanliness, shaping, and obturation were markedly superior in the experimental group, with higher scores indicating better precision. The experimental group also exhibited a reduced incidence of procedural errors and complications compared to the control group.

Conclusion:

Magnification and enhanced visualization tools, such as dental loupes and DOMs, enhance precision in endodontic procedures.
Evaluation of C-Reactive Proteins Levels in Peri-Implantitis Patients
Authors: Sharma Megha , Singh Abhay Partap , Kumar Barun , Girdhar Puneet , Brar Arundeep S , Mittal Pooja
Published: July 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

To evaluate C-reactive protein (CRP) levels in peri-implantitis patients.

Material and Methods:

This study comprised a total of 100 participants. Fifty participants with a confirmed clinical and radiological diagnosis of peri-implantitis formed one group. Another group of 50 volunteers who came in for a normal health checkup served as healthy controls. All the patients were recalled in the morning. Fasting venous blood samples were collected. CRP concentrations in the laboratory were determined using an auto-analyzer.

Results:

In this study, there were 40 females and 60 males. Mean CRP levels among subjects of the peri-implantitis group and the control group were 0.615 and 0.201 mg/dL, respectively.

Conclusion:

It was observed that mean CRP levels were higher among subjects having peri-implantitis as compared to the controls.
Prevalence of Androgenetic Alopecia among Saudi Population
Authors: Tobeigei Faisal Hassan
Published: July 2024

Background:

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) affects both men and women. Genetic susceptibility in men and women is characterized by the gradual miniaturization of hair roots with a specific easily recognized. It is the most prevalent trigger of hair loss in both genders. The development of AGA is generally gradual as the disease gradually worsens. With time, the overall number and severity of this form of hair loss increases. AGA affects both men and women, and both have a genetic susceptibility. With time, the overall number and severity of this form of hair loss increases. The most typical reason for hair loss in both genders is AGA.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, data were collected by the purposely constructed questionnaire. A questionnaire composed of demographic items and items related to AGA. SPSS version 20 software was used to analyze the data. The study was conducted in different regions of Saudi Arabia; the ethical committee of King Khalid University approved the study. A convenience sampling method was used; data were collected from the general public in different regions of Saudi Arabia Sample size was 2200 respondents, and the response rate was 98% (out of 220 total samples, 2162) respondents.

Results:

In this study, there were 2200 total respondents; from that, 2162 participated, so the response rate was 98%. There were 1060 (49%) male participants and female participants numbered 1102 (51%). The Cronbach alpha of the questionnaire was 0.84. Out of 1060 male respondents, 479 (45.1%), while of 1102 females, 412 (37.4%) suffered from AGA.

Conclusion:

The results showed that the prevalence of AGA in male respondents was higher than in female respondents.
External Cervical Resorption Surgical and Non-Surgical Management: A Case Report
Authors: Alobaid Mohammed A.
Published: July 2024

The loss of tooth hard tissue caused by odontoclast cell action is described as external cervical resorption (ECR). ECR is commonly initiated on the cervical third of the root’s surface. This study includes a summary of the etiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of ECR. Only when the exact type and precise position of the ECR defect are identified, can effective management and the proper course of treatment be taken. A 29-year-old male patient’s general dentist noticed ECR in the upper right first premolar during a routine radiography examination. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was done to assess the lesion’s extent. Glass ionomer cement was surgically applied to the defect to fill it. Nonsurgically, root canal treatment was carried out before and after the surgical intervention. Using CBCT, combining nonsurgical and surgical approaches to manage such cases is an effective way of treatment.
NOX4 exacerbates Parkinson’s disease pathology by promoting neuronal ferroptosis and neuroinflammation
Authors: Lin Zhihao , Ying Changzhou , Si Xiaoli , Xue Naijia , Liu Yi , Zheng Ran , Chen Ying , Pu Jiali , Zhang Baorong
Published: July 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202507000-00026/figure1/v/2024-09-09T124005Z/r/image-tiff

Parkinson’s disease is primarily caused by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra compacta. Ferroptosis, a novel form of regulated cell death characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, plays a vital role in the death of dopaminergic neurons. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying ferroptosis in dopaminergic neurons have not yet been completely elucidated. NADPH oxidase 4 is related to oxidative stress, however, whether it regulates dopaminergic neuronal ferroptosis remains unknown. The aim of this study was to determine whether NADPH oxidase 4 is involved in dopaminergic neuronal ferroptosis, and if so, by what mechanism. We found that the transcriptional regulator activating transcription factor 3 increased NADPH oxidase 4 expression in dopaminergic neurons and astrocytes in an 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine-induced Parkinson’s disease model. NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition improved the behavioral impairments observed in the Parkinson’s disease model animals and reduced the death of dopaminergic neurons. Moreover, NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition reduced lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation in the substantia nigra of the Parkinson’s disease model animals. Mechanistically, we found that NADPH oxidase 4 interacted with activated protein kinase C α to prevent ferroptosis of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, by lowering the astrocytic lipocalin-2 expression, NADPH oxidase 4 inhibition reduced 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6 tetrahydropyridine-induced neuroinflammation. These findings demonstrate that NADPH oxidase 4 promotes ferroptosis of dopaminergic neurons and neuroinflammation, which contribute to dopaminergic neuron death, suggesting that NADPH oxidase 4 is a possible therapeutic target for Parkinson’s disease.
Unraveling brain aging through the lens of oral microbiota
Authors: Hu Qinchao , Wang Si , Zhang Weiqi , Qu Jing , Liu Guang-Hui
Published: July 2024

The oral cavity is a complex physiological community encompassing a wide range of microorganisms. Dysbiosis of oral microbiota can lead to various oral infectious diseases, such as periodontitis and tooth decay, and even affect systemic health, including brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have highlighted how oral microbes might be involved in brain aging and neurodegeneration, indicating potential avenues for intervention strategies. In this review, we summarize clinical evidence demonstrating a link between oral microbes/oral infectious diseases and brain aging/neurodegenerative diseases, and dissect potential mechanisms by which oral microbes contribute to brain aging and neurodegeneration. We also highlight advances in therapeutic development grounded in the realm of oral microbes, with the goal of advancing brain health and promoting healthy aging.
Tropism-shifted AAV-PHP.eB-mediated bFGF gene therapy promotes varied neurorestoration after ischemic stroke in mice
Authors: Shi Rubing , Ye Jing , Liu Ze , Wang Cheng , Wu Shengju , Shen Hui , Suo Qian , Li Wanlu , He Xiaosong , Zhang Zhijun , Tang Yaohui , Yang Guo-Yuan , Wang Yongting
Published: July 2024

AAV-PHP.eB is an artificial adeno-associated virus (AAV) that crosses the blood-brain barrier and targets neurons more efficiently than other AAVs when administered systematically. While AAV-PHP.eB has been used in various disease models, its cellular tropism in cerebrovascular diseases remains unclear. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the tropism of AAV-PHP.eB for different cell types in the brain in a mouse model of ischemic stroke and evaluate its effectiveness in mediating basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) gene therapy. Mice were injected intravenously with AAV-PHP.eB either 14 days prior to (pre-stroke) or 1 day following (post-stroke) transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Notably, we observed a shift in tropism from neurons to endothelial cells with post-stroke administration of AAV-PHP.eB-mNeonGreen (mNG). This endothelial cell tropism correlated strongly with expression of the endothelial membrane receptor lymphocyte antigen 6 family member A (Ly6A). Furthermore, AAV-PHP.eB-mediated overexpression of bFGF markedly improved neurobehavioral outcomes and promoted long–term neurogenesis and angiogenesis post-ischemic stroke. Our findings underscore the significance of considering potential tropism shifts when utilizing AAV-PHP.eB-mediated gene therapy in neurological diseases and suggest a promising new strategy for bFGF gene therapy in stroke treatment.
Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway: contributing to the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Yang Hang , Xia Yulei , Ma Yue , Gao Mingtong , Hou Shuai , Xu Shanshan , Wang Yanqiang
Published: July 2024

The cGAS–STING pathway plays an important role in ischemia-reperfusion injury in the heart, liver, brain, and kidney, but its role and mechanisms in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury have not been systematically reviewed. Here, we outline the components of the cGAS–STING pathway and then analyze its role in autophagy, ferroptosis, cellular pyroptosis, disequilibrium of calcium homeostasis, inflammatory responses, disruption of the blood–brain barrier, microglia transformation, and complement system activation following cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. We further analyze the value of cGAS–STING pathway inhibitors in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury and conclude that the pathway can regulate cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury through multiple mechanisms. Inhibition of the cGAS–STING pathway may be helpful in the treatment of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury.
Single-cell and spatial omics: exploring hypothalamic heterogeneity
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Lee Eun Jeong , Lim Su Bin
Published: July 2024

Elucidating the complex dynamic cellular organization in the hypothalamus is critical for understanding its role in coordinating fundamental body functions. Over the past decade, single-cell and spatial omics technologies have significantly evolved, overcoming initial technical challenges in capturing and analyzing individual cells. These high-throughput omics technologies now offer a remarkable opportunity to comprehend the complex spatiotemporal patterns of transcriptional diversity and cell-type characteristics across the entire hypothalamus. Current single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing methods comprehensively quantify gene expression by exploring distinct phenotypes across various subregions of the hypothalamus. However, single-cell/single-nucleus RNA sequencing requires isolating the cell/nuclei from the tissue, potentially resulting in the loss of spatial information concerning neuronal networks. Spatial transcriptomics methods, by bypassing the cell dissociation, can elucidate the intricate spatial organization of neural networks through their imaging and sequencing technologies. In this review, we highlight the applicative value of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics in exploring the complex molecular-genetic diversity of hypothalamic cell types, driven by recent high-throughput achievements.