bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT OF CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS: COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF MEDIA LITERACY LEVEL IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA AND LATVIA
Authors: Murinska-Gaile Sandra , Hadžialić Sabahudin
Published: May 2017

The aim of this paper is to look on level of media literacy and activities in this field in two countries – Latvia and Bosnia and Herzegovina. People are exposed to a flow of diverse content of information and opinions, there it is important to discuss about media education and it`s outcome – the media literacy. Media literacy helps people to analyze, evaluate, and create messages thus develops people's critical and creative abilities. The survey about credibility of mass media, critical use of information, understanding of media literacy in each country, institutions promoting media literacy and the impact of media literacy on political decision making was carried out.

The main hypothesis of this case study was that media literacy is basic presumption of the establishing the critical thinking of society of developed democratic consciousness.The comparative analysis showed that sociological aspect in the area of Bosnia and Herzegovina within the deep division in the society itself, with the lack of consensual awareness creates presumption trust completely into the mass media, while in the case of Latvia there is just few answers related to the existing media literacy.
LIVING LEARNING FROM NEAR DEATH EXPERIENCE
Authors: Veide Mārtiņš
Published: May 2017

The main aim of the article is to clarify what changes a near death experience (NDE) brings in the living learning process of an adult and in his attitude towards it. The existential experience, and the perceptions about life and death are considered as important self-realization and development factors in the learning process. Although currently there is no single scientific position with respect to NDE, the inner experience of the humans who have survived clinical death and as a result of that had personality change cannot be denied. In the context of pedagogy according to the phenomenological scientific methodological tradition NDE gives its contribution both in the procedure of cognition and in the field of the cognizable facts. In order to identify the relationship between NDE and living learning, in-depth interviews were conducted with 5 people who have experienced clinical death. The results of the interviews allow to identify several common change categories of the attitude and understanding related to living learning. These include the examination of one’s own way of existence, understanding of the unity of all existing, the appearance of a deeper sense of responsibility, new interests and the related intuitive knowledge, the change of attitude towards knowledge, religion and self-knowledge.
SENIOR CITIZENS’ LEARNING AND ACTIVITY IN THE LABOUR MARKET
Authors: Rutkiene Ausra , Lengviniene Silva
Published: May 2017

The data provided by Eurostat show that adults who are aged 55 and over participate in education and training about 20 perc. less frequently than the younger ones, who are aged from 18 to 54. Such results are caused by imperfection of adult education, employer attitude and other reasons. Research studies performed in 2004-2006 revealed the problems which arise both for those adults who intend to study and also to educational institutions. Question of the research - which factors cause senior citizens’ motivation to learn aiming at staying active in the labour market? Survey was performed in 2016, 453 respondents participated in the research. The findings show that well-being, economical factors and learning play a decisive role in senior citizens’ staying active in the labour market as well as previous education and place of residence.
ART SUBJECTS IN NATIONAL CURRICULA – IDEAS FOR FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS IN GENERAL EDUCATION
Authors: Sepp Anu , Läänemets Urve , Kalamees-Ruubel Katrin , Kiilu Kristi
Published: May 2017

International trends of globalisation, changing learning environments as well as particular socio-cultural contexts and educational policy making are constantly shaping selection of the content for national curricula (NC) of general comprehensive schools. Art subjects (music, literature and art education) have been compulsory elements in Estonian NC for a century already making a significant contribution to identity and personality development of all population. Traditionally, learning art subjects has been well supported by extra-curricular activities or hidden curriculum so far. Today, primarily due to changing cultures and new values, learning motivation and decline of reading and expressive skills of students have become an issue. A pilot research (students’ essays, n=367) was carried out in Estonian general comprehensive basic schools (level 3, students aged 13–16) in 2016 with the aim to specify how students perceive the role and meaning of art subjects in their life. The students’ interesting ideas and presented opinions deserve attention when designing syllabi in NCs as well as supportive learning environments for both formal and informal learning activities. Accordingly, an increasing role of art subjects in future curricula should be considered as integrative, balancing and enriching tools for socialization of each individual. Awareness of arts has the potential to contribute to cultural sensitivity and understanding – the meta-skills for future lifelong learning and sustainable developments.
DRAMA INTERPRETATION OF THE FAIRY TALE THE SNOW QUEEN BY HANS CHRISTIAN ANDERSEN
Authors: Gogolin Olimpia , Szymik Eugeniusz
Published: May 2017

The theoretical part introduces the most frequently used drama techniques in early school education of Polish language. The practical part presents drama interpretation of the fairy tale The Snow Queen by Hans Christian Andersen. In the article, drama is introduced as a method that triggers students’ creative expression, which helps them understand the literary text better and ask proper questions.
Bioaccumulation of Cadmium and Lead in Prickly Pen Shell in Seribu Archipelago
Authors: Riani Etty , Johari Harry Sudrajat , Cordova Muhammad Reza
Published: May 2017

Jakarta Bay waters contaminated with heavy metals, so that the waters of the Thousand Islands are also potentially contaminated with heavy metals. The purpose of this study were to determine the condition of the water quality on the Panggang Island and Karya Island, analyze contamination of heavy metals (Cadmium and Lead) in water, sediments and Prickly Pen Shell and then the correlation. Based on Ministry of Environment decree No. 51/2004, water quality in the Panggang Island and Karya Island tend toward to low category. Cadmium and lead concentration in the water on October exceed the quality standards. In the sediment on July and October at Karya Island, concentration of cadmium were exceed the quality standar by RNO. On the other hand, cadmium and lead concentration on Prickly Pen Shell still below standard quality from decree of Director General of POM RI No. 03725. We found highest positive correlation were found between cadmium and lead accumulation in the water and on the Prickly Pen Shell, then positive correlation between cadmium and lead in the water and in the sediment. For the heavy metal contamination, we found contamination of cadmium correlation were higher than lead contamination.
Application Traceability System in Fish Processing Lemadang Frozen Portion in PT. Graha Insan Sejahtera, North Jakarta
Authors: Febrianik Dwi , Dharmayanti Niken , Siregar Arpan Nasri
Published: May 2017

Rejection of any foreign material that should not be included in the product (filthy) occurs in fish lemadang with various forms of products. The observe done in PT. Graha Insan Sejahtera, North Jakarta from 15 February until 15 May 2016. The purpose of observe was to determine the application of traceability
systems in the fish processing frozen lemadang portion and determine the ability of a search on the final product based on the code traceability. Method end the practice of using direct observation by participating in the process of traceability and interviews with sources (captains, tally, Quality Assurance or QA and Quality Control or QC). Implementation of traceability systems internally applied by Fish Processing Unit (UPI) based analysis system, the type of operation and methods of data traceability. Implementation of internal code traceability system starting from raw material to the acceptance stage weighing IV use 12-digit numbers and three letters or a combination of numbers and letters. At this stage of labeling up to loading using a product lot code. The application of an external traceability system on seven ships and three suppliers no implementing traceability systems. Search capability to the code portion lemadang frozen fish products with a known product quality is not traceable to get the code of raw materials and the quality of frozen fish lemadang.
Characteristics of Staphylococcus aureus Isolated Smoked Fish Pinekuhe from Traditionally Processed from Sangihe District
Authors: Karimela Ely John , Ijong Frans G. , Dien Henny A.
Published: May 2017

Pinekuhe  is the local name for smoked scad fish (Decapterus sp.), a traditionally processed fish product from Sangihe Islands whose taste, aroma and form are typical and unique. In this research aims of physiological and biochemical characteristics with pathogenicity isolated S. aureus which the isolated from the product smoked scad fish (Decapterus rusellii) Pinekuhe it was produce and prepared by the local fisherman in Sangihe Island Regency. The isolated that have gathered from this researched was 111 product isolate from the smoke fish Pinekuhe which grown from media MSA. Its had isolated already through the
test of physiological comprise, Gram staining and from the test of biochemical e.g., from the test Catalase, Voges-Proskauer, and Fermentation carbohydrate tests (Glucose and Manitol). The characteristics of pathogenicity S. aureus had been done and used by making of Coagulase, Nuklease Thermostabil production
and deoksiribonuklease (DNase). The result of this research showing that had still 111 isolating strains that still ingroup which consists of 108 isolated Staphylococcus and from 108 strains to 68 strains that had been test in identifying, as of Staphylococcus aureus with characteristics of Gram positif coccus, catalase positif,
Voges-Proskauer positif, and to Fermentation Glucose and Manitol. The 68 isolate S. aureus that characterize from Phatogen principles product Coagulase test, Nuklease Thermostabil and deoksiribonuklease (DNase). S. aureus is dominant (62%) contaminate smoked fish Pinekuhe processed traditional of Sangihe island.
Bioactive Compounds of Seaweed Padina australis and Eucheuma cottonii as Sunscreen Raw Materials
Authors: Maharany Fevita , Nurjanah Nurjanah , Suwandi Ruddy , Anwar Effionora , Hidayat Taufik
Published: May 2017

Seaweed is one of the main commodity which spread throughout Indonesian waters. Seaweed contains bioactive compounds which can serve as a defense form ultraviolet radiation. The purpose of this study was to obtain chemical composition, phytochemical compounds, vitamin E, and antioxidant activity of extract P. australis and E. cottonii. Chemical composition of P. australis moisture 87.25%; ash 2.34%; protein 1.05%, fat 0.58%; and carbohydrates 8.78% while E. cottonii moisture 76.15%; ash 5.62%; protein 2.32%; fat 0.11%; and carbohydrates 15.8%. The yield of P. australis extracts using methanol 4.55%; ethyl acetate 0.8%; and n-hexane 0.45%, yield of  E. cottonii extracts using methanol 6.6%; ethyl acetate 0.5%; and and n-hexane 0.35%. Vitamin E value of P. australis 162.75 μg/mL and E. cottonii 158.07 μg/mL. IC50 value of P. australis 87.082 ppm and E. cottonii  106.021 ppm. P. australis and E. cottonii contain phytochemical compound such as flavonoids, phenol hydroquinone, and triterpenoids, P. australis was also known contain tannins and
saponins.
Acotiamide: a novel drug for the treatment of patients with functional dyspepsia
Authors: Bhalla Amit
Published: May 2017

Functional dyspepsia (FD) is a highly prevalent condition with major socioeconomic and healthcare impact. Previously, no pharmacotherapeutic agent had approved for the treatment of this condition. Acotiamide, a new first-in-class oral prokinetic drug, is an upper gastrointestinal motility modulator for the treatment of abdominal symptoms resulting from hypomotility and delayed gastric emptying in patients with functional dyspepsia. It exerts its activity in the stomach via muscarinic receptor inhibition, resulting in enhanced acetylcholine release and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity. Unlike other prokinetic drugs that are utilized in the management of functional dyspepsia, acotiamide shows little/no affinity for serotonin or dopamine D2 receptors. Acotiamide is the world’s first approved treatment for functional dyspepsia diagnosed by Rome III criteria, with its first approval occurring in Japan. A favourable clinical course with acotiamide 100mg t.i.d was demonstrated with high symptom elimination rate for patients of FD.
Attenuation of stress response to laryngoscopy and intubation: sublingual nitroglycerin spray vs intravenous fentanyl and sublingual nitroglycerin spray
Authors: Pegu Binod , Dutta Suneeta , Pathak Deba Gopal , Deori Kamal Chandra
Published: May 2017

Background: Laryngoscopy and tracheal intubation is invariably associated with certain cardiovascular changes such as tachycardia, rise in blood pressure and a wide variety of cardiac arrhythmias. 1 Such complications are highly detrimental in patients with limited cardiovascular reserve specially in geriatric and elderly population. Various pharmacological agents have been used to attenuate these stress responses but none has yet been considered ideal. Therefore, purpose of this study is to investigate the efficacy of sublingual Nitroglycerine spray alone and sublingual Nitroglycerine spray with intravenous Fentanyl to attenuate the pressor response to laryngoscopy and intubation in normotensive patients.Methods: A total of 120 ASA I and II patients of age group 18-60 years scheduled for elective surgical procedure under general anesthesia were randomly divided into 3 groups of 40 in each group. Group 1 control group, Group 2, received NTG sub-lingual spray (0.4mg/spray) two min. before induction, and Group 3 received inj. Fentanyl (2µg/kg) 5min before + NTG sub-lingual spray (0.4 mg/spray) 2min before induction. Vital parameters before and after induction and thereafter at specified time interval following laryngoscopy and intubation were recorded for comparison.Results: Demographic characteristics and baseline vital parameters in both the groups were comparable. Significant differences in mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were observed in between the groups during postintubation period.Conclusions: Combination of intravenous Fentanyl plus Nitroglycerin spray is more effective than NTG alone in attenuating the stress response following laryngoscopy and intubation.
Preventive gynecology: attitude and practice among gynecologists of Central Kerala
Authors: R. Radha K. , P. Reena R. , J. Jacob K.
Published: May 2017

Background: Carcinoma breast and carcinoma cervix are leading causes for cancer deaths in India. However, they get detected only in late stages of the disease. Preventive measures and early detection of disease will decrease the burden from these cancers. We evaluated the strategies followed by practising gynaecologists of Central Kerala to reduce this burden.Methods: A survey was conducted among 270 practising gynaecologists of Central Kerala, using a questionnaire. This evaluated implementation of screening and preventive measures used by them for self-protection as well as for the women seeking their services. Their attitude regarding HPV vaccine as a preventive measure was also noted.Results: Pap smear was done by only 84(32.8%) out of 256 gynaecologists or their spouses. Routine Pap smear was recommended by 60.5% of private practitioners and 84% of government practitioners. Counselling regarding the HPV vaccine was offered to young women by 37.8% of gynaecologists only. Use of HPV vaccine for their daughters was also quite infrequent (24.1%).Conclusions: The utilization of existing preventive strategies and measures for early detection of premalignant and malignant lesions is far from optimum. There is a need to step up in service training and continuing medical education for health care personnel in this direction.
Type II endometrial cancers: original research on a series
Authors: Nayak B. L. , Misra Sujata , Jaysingh Suryakant , Giri S. K.
Published: May 2017

Background: Endometrial carcinoma, which ranks 3rd in India amongst the gynecological malignancies, is of two histological types: I and II. These differ in molecular as well as in clinical and histopathological profiles. Type II is estrogen independent, nonendometrioid, with higher grade histologies, more aggressive and carries an adverse prognosis.Methods: Endometrial carcinomas diagnosed from endometrial biopsies and hysterectomy specimens in the Dept of Gynaec-oncology, AHRCC, Cuttack from November 2009 to January 2015 were included in the study. All specimens were fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin and paraffin embedded for histological examination with hematoxylin and eosin staining. The clinicopathological analysis of the cases of EC was done with an emphasis on morphology.Results: Of a total of 150 cases of EC reported, 20 cases were classified as type II EC (13.33%) as per histology. The age of the patients ranged from 36 to 73 years, with mean age is 61 years. In 11 cases (55%), the myometrial invasion was more than half. the histological type was a clear cell adenocarcinoma in 50% of the cases. All were treated with hysterectomy and chemotherapy.Conclusions: Of the type II EC, serous carcinoma is the most common type. Clinical presentation and prognosis differs in comparison to type I EC, thus the recognition of this type of EC is pivotal.
Patients’ attitudes toward receiving information and blood transfusion safety
Authors: Moosavi Ahmad , Bersiyani Zahra Zare , Yousefi Ebrahim , Manshadi Mahdi Gharasi , Moghimi Ali , Mirzaei Majid
Published: May 2017

Despite the international recognition of the fact that patient can help improve her or his safety, there is little evidence that shows how patient want to take the active role. The aim of this study was to investigate Patients’ Attitudes Toward Receiving Information and Blood Transfusion Safety. This study is performed by systematic reviewing of articles, magazines, foreign books and world health organization reports related to blood transfusion and its auditing. data banks were reviewed electronically. Electronic searches include: Magiran, SID, Embase, MIDLINE. Keywords used in searching includes: patient’s involvement, transfusion safety, blood transfusion and their Persian equivalences. Research evidence showed that little studies about patients' willingness to accept findings of these innovative plans or factors influencing their participation level have been performed. Role of patient participation as main base of clinical dominance can improve hospital and health center safety level in clinical processes. Patients can participate in pre-, during and post-stages of safety control of blood transfusion. Lack of adequate information and contrasts and confliction of staff with patients causes delay in this process.
Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea in metabolic syndrome
Authors: Dubey A. P. , Rajput Ashok K. , Suhag Virender , Sharma Durgesh , Kandpal Ajay , Keisham Roshlin
Published: May 2017

Background: The prevalence of both OSA and metabolic syndrome is increasing worldwide, in part linked to the epidemic of obesity. Beyond their epidemiologic relationship, growing evidence suggests that OSA may be causally related to metabolic syndrome. We are only beginning to understand the potential mechanisms underlying the OSA-metabolic syndrome interaction. Objectives were to study the clinical prevalence of obstructive sleep apnoea in metabolic syndrome; and to find risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).Methods: 50 patients attending various OPDs of a tertiary care research and referral hospital and found to have metabolic syndrome on the basis of NCEP criteria were selected. These patients were subjected to overnight polysomnography. Parameters such as apnea-hypopnoea index (AHI), respiratory efforts related arousals (RERA), minimum SpO2, pulse rate, blood pressure, and ECG were monitored throughout the study.Results: Central obesity was found in 34 patients, xanthelasmas in 12 patients and xanthomas in 08 patients. Pitting type of pedal oedema was noted in 14 patients. Epworth sleepiness score (ESS) was calculated in all the patients by interviewing them before the polysomnography. Most of the patients have ESS Score more than 11.03 out of 50 patients were found to have AHI<5.20 patients were found to have moderate AHI (AHI 15-30) whereas 22 were found to have severe AHI.Conclusions: Polysomnography provides a valuable tool to access non symptomatic sleep disordered breathing at an early stage in patients with metabolic syndrome.
Correlation of microalbuminuria with glycosylated haemoglobin in patients of diabetes having nephropathy
Authors: Gupta Mayank , Singh Jagat Pal
Published: May 2017

Background: Diabetes mellitus is the leading cause of end stage renal disease (ESRD) and is responsible for 30-40% of all ESRD. Objectives of the study were to assess the renal functional status in diabetic nephropathy patients by evaluating and correlating glycosylated haemoglobin levels in diabetic with microalbuminuria.Methods: Present observational study was done including 75 patients having diabetic nephropathy, who attended JAH and attached groups of hospitals from May 2014 to November 2015. Detailed medical history including duration of diabetes and relevant clinical examination including glycated haemoglobin, blood urea, serum creatinine, and urinary microalbumin were recorded for each patient. All the analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Ver. 20. Significance is assessed at 5% level of significance.Results: Mean age of study population was 52.4±15.2 years with male preponderance (58.67%). Increased micturation frequency (48%) was the most common presenting symptoms. Mean fasting blood sugar (FBS), post prandial blood sugar (PPBS), HbA1c, duration of diabetes, blood pressure, microalbuminuria and serum creatinine was 151.5±48.5 mg/dL and 240.3±59.7 mg/dL, 9.03±2.1%, 9.37±5.96 years, 132±22.4/84±12.5 mmHg, 118.6±86.7 mg/day and 1.33±0.64 mg/dl respectively. Microalbuminuria (r=0.91, p≤0.05), HbA1c (r=0.67, p≤0.05) and serum Creatinine (r=0.33, p≤0.05) were positively correlated with duration of diabetes.Conclusions: Level of microalbuminuria increase with increase in duration of diabetes and worsening of diabetes.
The clinico-demographic study of morbidity and mortality in patients with organophosphate compound poisoning at tertiary care hospital in rural India
Authors: Mundhe Sanjay A. , Birajdar Siddheshwar V. , Chavan Sheshrao S.
Published: May 2017

Background: Organophosphates (OP) are commonly used and potentially fatal insecticides. Given the unrestricted availability and widespread use, OP poisoning is very much common following either accidental or intentional exposures. Many parameters are proposed to predict outcome, yet there is no consensus about these parameters. This study aimed to investigate different factors associate with morbidity and mortality in rural population that can help in identifying patients in need of intensive care and treatment to prevent deaths.Methods: This was a cross-sectional observational study of 323 patients, admitted to the tertiary care rural public hospital with OP poisoning between December 2015 to November 2016.Results: Of the 323 patients studied, 62.85% were male, 227 (70.27%) were suicides, 241 (74.61%) ingested OP compounds, 40 (12.38%) patients developed intermediate syndrome and 56 (17.34%) died. There were statistically significant differences between ventilatory support group and no ventilatory group for suicidal intention, sex, comorbid psychiatric conditions, route of exposure, certain clinical features on admission, GCS score, POP scale, time from exposure to initiation of treatment, plasma pseudocholinesterase levels, oxygen saturation, and random blood sugar  levels (p<0.05).Conclusions: OP poisoning is a life-threatening condition which requires immediate management. Early initiation of decontamination, atropine and pralidoxime therapy, with supportive ICU care, can save lives. Different demographic, exposure related parameters; some of the clinical features, treatment variables and certain laboratory findings can provide useful prognostic information and help to predict outcomes. A measures to control unchecked availability of these compounds and early transfer of victims to health care facility is needed to save many lives.
Comparison of microalbuminuria and heart rate variability in prediction of cardiovascular complications in diabetic population: a pilot study
Authors: Deepalakshmi K. , Vijayabaskaran S. , Murali A.
Published: May 2017

Background: Microalbuminuria is considered as an early marker and strongly associated with risk of cardiovascular complications in diabetic patients. Autonomic imbalance due to micro vascular damage to parasympathetic and sympathetic fibers results in reduced heart rate variability; also predicts increased risk for cardiovascular events in diabetics. Hence it is necessary to identify an early and effective predictor of diabetic micro vascular complications. Objective of the study was to compare heart rate variability of controls with type 2 diabetes with and without microalbuminuria.Methods: This comparative study was conducted among individuals without diabetes, hypertension and dyslipidemia (controls) and Type II diabetics with and without microalbuminuria (cases). Cases and controls were subjected to general clinical examination; microalbuminuria and HbA1C were noted. heart rate variability was assessed using digital physiograph. Frequency (HF, LF, LF/HF ratio) domain readings were noted.Results: Mann Whitney U test was employed to analyze nonparametric data. Diabetics with microalbuminuria when compared with controls showed statistically significant (p-value=0.015) reduction in vagal activity. When compared with diabetics without microalbuminuria (180.4±151.7) they showed reduction in HF with no statistical significance. When diabetic group without microalbuminuria (0.56±0.31) was compared with controls they showed alternation in LF/HF ratio which has no statistical significance. Diabetics with microalbuminuria when compared with controls showed a statistically significant (p-value=0.009) alternation in LF /HF ratio implying an autonomic imbalance.Conclusions: This study shows there is significant vagal inhibition and autonomic imbalance in diabetic patients with microalbuminuria compared to controls. To ascertain the role of HRV as an early predictor of cardiovascular complications we propose to conduct study with a larger sample size in future.
A validation study of the Malay version of career commitment questionnaire
Authors: Rasudin Syahmina N. , Shohaimi Shamarina
Published: May 2017

Background: An employee’s commitment to his career is an important aspect in ensuring organisational effectiveness. Low level of commitment may increase withdrawal rates, thus, will negatively affect the organisation. The career commitment level of an employee needs to be measured properly. Hence, a validated and reliable instrument is very important to measure the level of career commitment among employees. Career Commitment Questionnaire (CCQ) consists of a combination of Blau’s Measure and Career Commitment Measure (CCM). Methods: The CCQs were distributed to secondary school teachers from 30 schools in Kota Bharu district. The collected questionnaires were split into Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) and Confirmatory Factor Analysis (CFA). Respondents answered the instrument by self-administered. Data were analysed for EFA, CFA, internal consistency, and convergent validity using STATA software Version 14. Results: The EFA resulted in the production of 1 factor with 19 items, while CFA results confirmed the construction of 1 factor with 19 items showed by the value of Chi square/df (1.631), TLI (0.967), CFI (0.971), and RMSEA (0.078)which met the requirements of model fitness. The overall Cronbach’s alpha value of CCQ was 0.99. The Average Variance Extracted (AVE) of CCQ was 0.78 indicating that the convergent validity was met. Conclusions: To recapitulate, the CCQ was proved to be a validated and reliable instrument for measuring the level of career commitment among school teachers and in future should be tested to ensure the suitability of CCQ in different career fields.
Community factors accountable for home births in a low income rural setting in Ghana
Authors: Konlan Kennedy Diema , Japiong Milipaak , Suuk Amos Nawunimali , Doat Abdul-Razak , Afaya Agani , Salia Solomon Mohammed
Published: May 2017

Background: Many maternal deaths occur as a result of delivery that takes place in the home or late referral of women in labour to the health facility. This situation is further worsened in remote poor communities of the northern region of Ghana; where health care services are inequitably distributed. This study determined the factors in low income rural communities that are responsible for the high numbers of homebirths using the Bunkpurugu Yunyoo district as a case study. Methods: The study employed mixed method study that used both qualitative and quantitative methods. Three hundred women who delivered within the last one year were made to respond to a research questionnaire while four health care workers (three midwives and a general registered nurse) were engaged in an in-depth interview. Results: The study identified poor road network, inequitable distribution of health facilities, inadequate family support during labour, cultural factors like taboos and the stigma associated with FGM to be responsible for the high numbers of home deliveries. Even though women intended to give birth in the health facility during pregnancy, they are unable to do so as labour occurs when they were not expecting it. Conclusions: The study recommended the use of equipment like the ultrasound during the first trimester of pregnancy to measure accurately the expected date of delivery of each pregnant woman so as to enable them plan for birth.
Clinical and haematological parameters associated with patients of visceral leishmaniasis in a district of North Bihar
Authors: Saurabh Kumar , Ranjan Shilpi , Prasad Rajeev Ranjan
Published: May 2017

Background: Visceral leishmaniasis is highly endemic in West Champaran district of Bihar. This endemicity is supposed to be due to poor hygiene and sanitation and poor control of vectors. This study was done to study clinical and haematological parameters of Kala-azar patients in this area.Methods: A retrospective data collection was done in a medical college of north Bihar. Study duration was one year from January 2016 to December 2016. 43 cases, rk-39 positive from 13 blocks of W. Champaran admitted at medical college were studied for clinical and haematological parameters.Results: Bhitha was the highest affected block (25.58%) followed by Manjhaulia (23.25%) Fever was the commonest presentation whereas splenomegaly was the most common sign. Pallor was seen in 90 % cases and hepatomegaly in 60 % cases. Patients presented with bleeding manifestation in 9.3% cases and lymphadenopathy in 6.9% cases. Among blood parameters anaemia was seen in 93% cases and thrombocytopenia in 83%. Microcytic hypochromic blood picture was the most common peripheral blood picture.Conclusions: Extensive epidemiological investigation is needed to find out hidden cases in this area.
A comparative study of family burden and quality of life between caregivers of schizophrenia and dementia patients
Authors: Swain Sarada Prasanna , Behura Sushree Sangita , Dash Manoj Kumar
Published: May 2017

Background: In chronic mental diseases, as the disease progresses, it carries with tremendous burden both physically and psychologically on the family members, who are usually in the process of caregiving. The quality of life (QOL) of these caregivers is directly related to the subjective and objective burden of the illness. The objective of the study was to assess and compare the level of family burden and QOL between caregivers of Schizophrenia and Dementia patients as well as to find out the relationship between family burden and QOL.Methods: A total of 128 key caregivers (64 caregivers of each group) fulfilling the inclusion criteria purposely selected from the OPD of MHI, S. C. B. Medical College and Neuropsychiatric Consultation Centre, Cuttack. The impact of family burden on key caregivers of dementia and schizophrenia patients was assessed by using family burden interview schedule and the quality of life of key caregivers was assessed by using WHOQOL BREF scale. Data was analysed by using chi-squre, t test and pearson correlation. Data analysis was performed by SPSS.Results: Statistical significant differences (p <0.05) were found in the areas of financial burden, disruptions of family routine activities, family leisure and family interaction between dementia and schizophrenia caregivers. Whereas there was no statistical significant difference (p >0.05) found in different domains of quality of life between these two groups of caregivers. There were significant negative correlations found between family burden and psychological, social relationships and environment domains of quality of life.Conclusions: Caregivers perceived subjective and objective burden ultimately affecting their QOL.
Eye donation: awareness and willingness among shopkeepers
Authors: Patil Reshma , Gothankar Jayashree , Bhat Prerna , Saluja Jitesh , Sane Shrivallabh
Published: May 2017

Background: Corneal blindness is one of the important causes of blindness in India that can be conventionally cured by corneal transplantation. The number of corneal transplants done is less than the actual requirement in India due to inadequate number of corneas collected. Therefore increasing awareness regarding eye donation and also willingness to pledge for the same is the today’s need. Hence current study was undertaken to assess the awareness regarding eye donation and the willingness to pledge the eye for donation amongst the shopkeepers in urban area of Pune city.Methods: Total 1014 shopkeepers above 15 years of age from field practice area of Urban Health Training Center of a private medical college, Pune were interviewed regarding awareness of eye donation and willingness to pledge eye for eye donation.Results: Out of total 1014 subjects, 752 (74.16%) were aware of eye donation amongst which males were maximum (75.13%) compared to females (24.87%). Awareness was more in the age group >40 years i.e. 47.87%. Willingness to pledge eyes for eye donation was 19.83%.Conclusions: Though the awareness regarding eye donation is high very few of them are ready to donate their eyes. Therefore more transfer of knowledge is needed to motivate people for eye donation which will be helpful in reducing the gap between the availability of corneas and actual requirement.
Assessment of quality of life of ASHA workers using WHOQoL-BREF questionnaire
Authors: Bullappa Asha , Kengnal Prakash
Published: May 2017

Background: ASHA represents a vital role in the strategy of NRHM. There is scarcity of information on quality of life and factors influencing it on ASHA workers. The assessment of quality of life in this group may help to better understand and develop an insight for measures that can be improved in their lives. The objective of the study was to assess the quality of life among ASHA workers of Mangalore and Udupi taluk, Karnataka. Methods: This is a questionnaire based, cross sectional study conducted for a period of 3 months (June 2015 - Aug 2015) on ASHA workers of Mangalore and Udupi Taluk, Karnataka. Local language Kannada version of WHO QoL BREF questionnaire consisting of 26 questions was used. Results: The mean age of ASHA workers across the study group was 42.40 years. With respect to perception of QoL and health, around 60% felt their quality of life (QoL) was good and health was satisfactory. Maximum and minimum mean scores was observed for self-esteem and financial resources respectively. Among the various domains of QoL, the ASHA workers had higher mean score in social domain, followed by physical, psychological and environmental. Conclusions: The ASHA workers had higher mean score in social domain, followed by physical, psychological and environmental.
To study the association of body mass index of mother and anthropometry of new born
Authors: Karthika K. , Wagh Anjali
Published: May 2017

Background: India is now facing a double burden with underweight on one side, and a rapid upsurge in overweight, particularly in the urban settings on the other side. With a maternal mortality rate of 174 per100,000 live births and with an infant mortality rate of 38 per 1000 live births, there is an absolute need to focus upon the health of the mothers and thence that of the new-born. So, we planned to study the correlation between the BMI of the mother with that of the outcome of the pregnancy.Methods: 152 women, who were registered and gave birth in the respective hospitals during the study period were selected randomly and were enrolled for the study. A detailed history was taken on their socio-economic class, obstetric status, diet and body mass index was calculated. And, the anthropometry of the new borns was taken.Results: Mothers with BMI less than normal had babies of low birth weight in major proportion (86%). Mothers with BMI falling under normal range had 13% low birth weight babies. Mothers with BMI more than normal had 55.5% low birth weight babies, 29.6% normal birth weight babies and also around 15% high birth weight babies.Conclusions: There is a definite correlation between the BMI of mother and the anthropometry of the child. Any deviation from the normal body mass index of the mother is seen to be related to a change in the anthropometry of the newborn.
Prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence during antenatal period in women delivering in a tertiary care center of Northern India
Authors: Priya Bhanu , Singh Nilanchali , Rajaram Shalini
Published: May 2017

Background: Urinary incontinence (UI) is a commonly encountered entity in antenatal and postpartum period. It is known to have detrimental effects on quality of life in approximately 54.3% of all pregnant women. However, the true prevalence of UI is still not known, especially in the South East Asia. This study has investigated the prevalence and risk factors of urinary incontinence during antenatal period.Methods: 500 women admitted in postnatal ward were interviewed retrospectively about the UI occurred during antenatal period,        using questionnaire. The study was done over a period of six months. Detailed information regarding risk factors of urinary incontinence was included in questionnaire based on previous validated studies. Data was analyzed using SPSS 20 using chi square test. P value <0.05 was taken as significant.Results: Total 500 women were interviewed and based on questionnaire. 202 reported incontinence, thus giving a prevalence of 40.4%, out of that 192 (45.5%) had stress urinary incontinence (SUI), 40(19.8%) had urge urinary incontinence (UUI) and 70 (34.6%) had mixed incontinence. The risk factors like bladder infections and chronic cough had significant association with urinary incontinence. Advancing gestation had worsening effects on the symptoms of UI (p =0.000).Conclusions: Urinary incontinence is a common and neglected problem with poor treatment seeking behavior. SUI is more common in pregnant women than urge or mixed incontinence. Obstetricians need to ask have precise interrogation regarding UI in pregnant women to diagnose and treat the problem.
A study on screening for scoliosis among school children in the age group of 10-14 using a cost effective and an innovative technique
Authors: Talasila Sai Sri Akshara , Gorantla Misha , Thomas Vimala
Published: May 2017

Background: Scoliosis refers to a sideways curvature of the spine. Early detection of scoliosis prevents progress into severe scoliosis. In a resource constrained setting like India, there is a need for cost effective solutions for the purpose of screening. Objective of this study is to identify scoliosis among school children, determine risk factors associated with scoliosis and to compare the readings of the Scoliometer device to those obtained from Scoliometer smartphone app.Methods: The present cross sectional study was conducted in students aged 10-14 years studying in private schools of Hyderabad. All willing students (n=1000) were screened for scoliosis during June-August 2015. They were screened using physical examination (Adams forward bend test), Scoliometer device and Scoliometer App.Results: A total of 3.3% of the students had positive scoliosis findings when physically examined in standing position and 3.4% were positive for Adam’s forward bend test. Around 0.7% of students had a reading >7o when screened using the Scoliometer device and 1% had a reading >7o when screened using the App i.e. similar results were obtained. The risk factors associated with scoliosis found by this study includes prematurity of foetus during delivery and carrying school bag on one shoulder which had statistically significant association with positive scoliotic findings with O.R of 3.6 and 4.3 at 95% CI respectively.Conclusions: Scoliometer app can replace the expensive Scoliometer device for screening of scoliosis. This can be included in school health programmes.
A community study of alcohol consumption in a rural area in South India
Authors: A. Rajeev , Abraham Sherin B. , Reddy Thushara G. , Skariah Celin M. , E. R. Indiradevi , Abraham Jacob
Published: May 2017

Background: Alcohol is reaping a socio-psychological cost from the lesser educated and poor of Kerala. Its prevalence varies from 33-50%, with the age of initiation decreasing recently. The type of liquor and the manner, in which it is consumed, make it a risk factor for many health hazards. This study aimed to find out the age at onset of the habit and the potential side effects in a rural population of Thiruvalla, Kerala, India. Methods: A house to house survey of adult males was carried out using the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) questionnaire in Thiruvalla, Kerala. The age at initiation and potential health effects of the habit was inquired and the drinkers were grouped into 3 based on dose and frequency of drinking, in addition to the teetotalers. Results: The sample studied was heavily dominated by the middle income, pre-university males. Prevalence of problem drinking was 12.8% across the age groups with the highest drinking prevalence in the age group under 40. AUDIT subscore adequately revealed the amount of drinking and extent of addiction. About 3/4th to 2/3rd regular drinkers suffered from adverse effects of drinking in the past. Only less than a third of occasional drinkers had these associated histories. Higher degrees of drinking were associated with lower incomes. Age at initiation influenced the extent of present drinking and the occurrence of adverse events. Conclusions: The study points to the necessity of delaying the age of initiation of drinking among youngsters in Kerala.
Do social factors influence learning among undergraduate medical students? A cross sectional analytical study
Authors: Gorantla Misha , Thomas Vimala
Published: May 2017

Background: Student self-assessment occurs when learners make judgments about aspects of their own performance. There are several social, educational, demographic and environmental factors that have a direct bearing on learning. This study helps to identify these. The objectives of this study are to assess student’s ability to cope with academic environment based on their self-evaluation and to study the effect of socio-demographic factors on their academic coping ability. Methods: The present cross section study was done in Gandhi Medical College on all first year MBBS students. It was conducted between1st January to 20th January 2016. A pre designed pre structured self-administered questionnaire was given to all students willing to participate in the study. The responses were analysed to study the influence of social factors on student learning outcomes. The study participants included a total of 179 students. Results: This study found that majority of the students (64.2%) were 18 years old. Most of the students (89%) belonged to urban area; fathers of majority of students (49.2%) were professional degree holders. Majority (97%) students were educated in English medium but majority (70.9%) students communicated with friends in Telugu. A majority of 54% felt that teachers should local language also during lectures to prevent language barrier while learning. Conclusions: We found that students educated in Telugu medium and students with fathers engaged in unskilled occupations showed poorer coping ability with an odds ratio of 9.1 and 3.2 respectively at 95% CI.
Assessment of immunisation status of infants in an urban area of North Karnataka
Authors: Bhardwaj Neha , Goel Varun
Published: May 2017

Background: Still over 2 million children die each year from the six vaccine preventable diseases, some of which can be eradicated and all of which are preventable. Methods: Cross sectional study done on 385 infants residing in Urban Health Centre, Khasbag, Karnataka, India. Results: The study revealed that 373 (96.88%) of the infants were fully immunized, 9 (2.34%) were partially immunized and 3 (0.78%) were unimmunized. There were multiple reasons for partial and non-immunization. The main causes were unaware of need for immunization, unaware of need to return for 2nd and 3rd dose and wrong ideas about contraindications. Other causes were postponement of immunization for another time and the major obstacles were illness of child, mother too busy and family problems. Conclusions: Child illness and lack of information are major causes of non-immunization and partial immunization.
Comparative evaluation of adverse drug reactions in patients of acne prescribed with either topical benzyl peroxide or retinoic acid in a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Pandya Ishan , Pandya Purna , Pethani Neha , Shah Rima Bharatbhai
Published: May 2017

Background: To evaluate and compare the profile of adverse drug reaction, its causality, severity and preventability in patients of acne prescribed with either topical benzyl peroxide or topical retinoic acid in a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Methods: Two hundred patients attending to dermatology department with acne and prescribed with either topical benzyl peroxide or topical retinoic acid were observed for occurrence of adverse drug events (ADEs). ADEs were either spontaneously reported or elucidated from personal interviews and analyzed.

Results: Out of total 200 patients, 110 (55%) were given benzoyl peroxide gel (2.5%) and remaining 90 (45%) were given retinoic acid cream (0.025%). Total 54 adverse events were reported in 47 (23.5%) patients. Highest number of patients having ADR was from 16-20 years (35, 74.46%) with male predominance (59.57%). Number of adverse events reported was significantly higher (p <0.05) in retinoic acid group (34, 62.96%) as compare to benzyl peroxide group (20, 37.03%). Most common ADRs were exfoliation (14, 25.92%) and burning sensation (13, 24.07%). Most of the ADRs fell in category of ‘probable’ and ‘possible’ in causality assessment by both WHO-UMC method and Narenjo’s scale. All the ADRs were of mild (44, 81.48%) and moderate (10, 18.52%) severity. Majority of ADRs were not preventable (24, 44.44%) followed by definitely preventable 22(40.74%) and 8 (14.81%) probably preventable.

Conclusions: ADRs is a common problem associated with topically used medications for acne and its occurrence is significantly higher with retinoic acid as compare to benzyl peroxide. Early diagnosis and proper education about use of topical drugs can prevent some of the ADRs. 