bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Institutional Pressures Drive Learning and Memory in Organizations
Authors: Cosa Marcello
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores how coercive, mimetic, and normative institutional pressures influence organizational learning and memory. It presents a comprehensive framework that elucidates the impact of these pressures on organizational behavior, mainly focusing on how they drive compliance, adaptation, and the adoption of best practices. Coercive pressures enforce legal and ethical standards, mimetic pressures encourage the emulation of successful peers, and normative pressures embed industry norms and values into organizational culture. The chapter integrates key theories and empirical studies to highlight the synergistic effects of these pressures, offering practical insights and research propositions to enhance organizational adaptability and resilience in dynamic environments.
Towards a Sociocognitive Perspective on Ecosystem Leadership
Authors: Shevchuk Dmitrii , Reuter Emmanuelle
Published: October 2024

This chapter advances the sociocognitive perspective on ecosystem leadership, emphasizing the critical roles of managers, their cognitions, and their social interactions in shaping a shared ecosystem vision (sensing), achieving ecosystem-specific commitment (seizing) and maintaining ecosystem stability (reconfiguring). We explore which sociocognitive processes and capabilities likely underpin dynamic managerial capabilities. Towards this aim, we review the literature on ecosystem leadership, focusing on insights into sociocognitive dynamics to open new avenues for future research into the sociocognitive microfoundations of ecosystem leadership. We contribute to the literatures on ecosystem leadership and dynamic capabilities as well as to the sociocognitive perspective in management.
Cognitive Dissonance and Customer's Online Purchase Intention
Authors: Devi Meenakshi , Gangwar Veer P.
Published: October 2024

The systematic literature review (SLR) explores the relationship between cognitive dissonance and purchase intention in consumers' online behavior. It emphasizes the dynamic nature of online consumer behavior and its influence on decision-making. The study conducts a comprehensive review of 53 publications using “cognitive dissonance” and “customer intention” as search keywords. The results contribute to the scholarly discussion and offer perspectives for enhancing online marketing strategies. The paper also provides a conceptual framework and suggestions for further research in this area.
A Comprehensive Introduction to Cloud Computing Revolution
Authors: Ashwini A. , Balasubramaniam S. , Kadry Seifedine
Published: October 2024

Cloud computing can be considered as a revolution of how commercial enterprises obtain and use computational services. In a narrow sense, cloud computing means the rent of services over the Internet with its characteristics such as storage, computing, and applications. An organization can host an application in minutes and run it without having to invest a week or a month in procuring the necessary hardware and setting it up with the help of cloud. This is made possible by the flexibility brought about by pay as you go, eliminating cases where firms incur bills in resources they did not or will not require. Privacy is an essential aspect within the cloud computing that is still emerging. This is done through nurturance of proper encryption, security check and risk analysis, creation of organizational standards and compliance to other standards. These risks should be well understood by all organizations to make sure that measures are employed to make cloud security not to hinder the adoption of this technology that holds great promises for the growth of their business processes.
Challenges in Integrating Cloud and IoT in Healthcare Systems
Authors: Ashwini A. , Kavitha V. , Balasubramaniam S. , Sundaravadivazhagan B.
Published: October 2024

Cloud computing and IoT are two great technologies which have the potential to reform the healthcare industry and enhance the systems that are in place to offer the best care to the frustrated patients, to manage a large number of data and to change the working processes. This chapter explained the role of cloud and IoT in healthcare domain and shifted focus to the key issues and challenges such as data security and privacy or, IoT and cloud integration and standardization and the issues with the big data management and analytics. Patient's personal information is quite high and it is critical to protect the data of patients in contemporary healthcare. Additionally, establishing connectivity between IoT devices and Clouds, programs possess certain limitations pertaining to various encoding and data transmission methodologies. Finally, the chapter about the challenge of managing and understanding big data ends with the assertion that it can only be done if a big-cloud structure and expensive sophisticated analytical methods are used to extract useful information out of it.
Cloud-IoT-Based Healthcare Applications
Authors: Abinaya M.
Published: October 2024

The healthcare system is to transform because to the confluence of cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT), especially in the treatment of chronic illnesses like seizures. To improve patient care, this chapter explores the creation and use of a seizure prediction system that makes use of these technologies. The physiological characteristics of patients may be continuously and in real-time monitored by using Internet of Things devices such as temperature sensors, heart rate monitors, and wearable EEG sensors. The gathered data is sent to cloud platforms, where sophisticated machine learning algorithms interpret and evaluate it to provide extremely accurate seizure predictions. Personalized treatment plans and thorough health profiles are made possible by integration with Electronic Health Records (EHR), which further enhances the data. Pilot projects show how the system may enhance both operational effectiveness and patient outcomes. Prospective avenues for development encompass progressions in artificial intelligence, scalability, and implementation in various environments.
Unlocking the Power of Data
Authors: Shereef Shafi , Varghese Nisha , Kamalraj R.
Published: October 2024

Healthcare plays a major role in ensuring the health and longevity of individuals and fostering a more productive society. It is a rapidly changing industry with various sectors like medical services, technologies, and products. IoT is emerging as a solution to enhance healthcare through interconnectivity, automation, and real-time data. In healthcare, IoT enables real-time data collection, remote monitoring, and advanced analytics, improving patient care and operational efficiency. However, challenges like data privacy and the need for robust IT infrastructure must be addressed. Cloud computing complements IoT by offering scalable, flexible solutions for health data management. This chapter focuses on IoT and cloud computing in healthcare, particularly in diagnosing sleep apnea. IoT devices connected to the cloud can monitor sleep disorders and aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment. The chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of IoT and cloud technologies in healthcare, their benefits, challenges, and potential in revolutionizing sleep medicine.
Sustainability of IPO Returns in the Indian Equity Market
Authors: Arya Urvashi , Tiwari Rajesh , Jain Anuradha
Published: October 2024

Sustainability of has attracted attention of researchers, policy makers, organisations and stakeholders. In the current era of geo-political uncertainty, sustainability of returns on investment has been a cause of concern for investors and portfolio managers. This study aims to conduct a holistic assessment to thoroughly analyse the Indian Initial Public Offering (IPO) industry over the years 2022–2023. The study will first assess the accuracy of IPO valuation by comparing initial returns with predicted values to ascertain if offers were overpriced or underpriced. A comparison of IPO returns at listing and 90 days after listing has been made with NIFTY 50 returns to measure market reaction and performance by using Wealth Relative Index. Statistical techniques have been employed to gather and evaluate data in order to extract valuable information that investors, financial analysts, and policymakers may use. Both companies and investors must engage in thorough research, maintain transparency, and monitor market trends to navigate the IPO landscape effectively.
The Impact of Cognitive Biases and Psychological Strategies on Sustainable Investment Choices
Authors: Tripathi Rashmi , Yadav Nikhil
Published: October 2024

This chapter explores the influence of cognitive biases and psychological strategies on sustainable investment choices. It highlights key biases such as loss aversion, confirmation bias, and herding behavior, examining their impact on decision-making in sustainable finance. The chapter also delves into the role of psychological strategies, including nudging, goal framing, and psychological pricing, in promoting green investments. By integrating behavioral finance with sustainable investing, it offers insights into how biases and strategies can be harnessed to encourage environmentally responsible financial behaviors and drive sustainable market growth.
Bibliometric Exploration of Neuromarketing Research
Authors: Singh Raj Kumar , Bansal Ankita , Mitali Soni , Das Saxena Utpala , Bhatti Kulbir Kaur
Published: October 2024

This bibliometric study aims to comprehensively analyze the field of neuromarketing by utilizing data from the Scopus database. The study aims to identify research patterns, prominent researchers, and impactful studies in the field. Specifically, it focuses on the division of research, ethical considerations, and discrepancies in methodology. The study used co-authorship, co-citation, and co-occurrence analysis to examine the interdisciplinary nature of neuromarketing, focusing on integrating neuroscience, psychology, and marketing. The Vos Viewer tool was employed to analyze the performance and investigate topic clusters for this investigation. The findings reveal significant collaboration networks and fundamental research investigations, offering valuable insights into the evolution of research themes.
Global Status of Micro/Nano-Plastic Pollution and Its Effect on Climate Change
Authors: Sheikh Ayan , Shrivastava Vaishanavi , Sharma Eti , Gaur Nisha , Kumar Shubham , Mittal Shashank
Published: October 2024

MNPs, by the virtue of their extremely small size are very potent in causing huge destruction to our environment and local ecosystems. MNPs impart a sustaining damage on our atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and collectively on our biosphere. They can be easily transported and spread to distant locations from their source of origination, thanks to their small size and light weight characteristics. Once out in the wild, MNPs are very hard to get filtered out from our environment and degraded. MNPs cause a lot of negative impact on our aquatic as well as the soil ecosystem. They hinder the activities of natural microflora of these ecosystems as well as they get into our food chains via plants, fishes, etc. Once incorporated into our food chain, MNPs leave a drastic effect on every trophic level, with most acute and severe effect on the higher trophic levels i.e. tertiary trophic level which includes humans.
Microplastics
Authors: Singh Mani , Singh P. K. , Kulshreshtha U. C.
Published: October 2024

The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment and living organisms including humans has emerged as a significant global concern in the recent decades. Ambient MPs primarily originate from industrial activities and degradation of larger plastic debris, contributing to both coarse (PM10) and fine (PM2.5) particulate matter. Inhalation and ingestion of these particles pose significant health risks. MPs can affect plant growth, alter photosynthesis and modify genetic expression, thereby impacting agricultural productivity and ecosystem stability. MPs can also influence climate by disrupting the Earth's energy dynamics and carbon cycles. This chapter focuses on the source apportionment of MPs in coarse and fine particulate matter (PM) and examines their impacts on human health, plants life, and climate change while deliberating on the mitigation strategies.
Strategies to Mitigate Microplastic (MP) and Nanoplastic (NP) Pollution in Soil
Authors: Kandpal Hema , Srivastava R. K.
Published: October 2024

The mismanagement of plastic waste has led to the environmental pollution and bioaccumulation of these plastic particles into living organisms through various food chains and food webs in the ecosystems. The breakdown of plastic into microplastic (MP) and nanoplastic (NP) intensifies its adverse impact on soil fertility, food security and living organisms. MP and NP can enter the soil through various pathways such as plastic mulching, compost and sewage sludge and atmospheric deposition. These particles migrate through various ecosystems. Small sizes limit the efficiency of detection of these particles and thus require urgent, sustainable solutions to mitigate MP and NP pollution. These particles can adsorb harmful chemicals like pesticides, PAHs, PCBs and heavy metals on their surface. Therefore, this chapter discusses the sources, impact and mitigation strategies for MP and NP pollution. Moreover, this chapter enhances understanding of the environmental threats by MP and NP pollution and provides sustainable approaches to mitigate their detrimental effects. .
Mounting Legal-Driven Solutions for Plastic Pollution Focusing on Environment and Coastal Management
Authors: Singh Bhupinder , Lal Sahil , Arora Manmeet Kaur , Kaunert Christian
Published: October 2024

The growing danger of plastic pollution and its catastrophic effects on marine ecosystems highlight the pressing need for creative approaches to water governance as well as a thorough legal framework. Marine pollution comprises a mixture of chemicals and debris, primarily originating from terrestrial sources and finding its way into the ocean through runoff or wind dispersion. Also, the typical forms of marine debris encompass a range of plastic items such as shopping bags, beverage bottles, cigarette butts, bottle caps, food wrappers and fishing gear. In line with the objectives of Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14) Life Below Water, this chapter explores methods that can be scaled up to mitigate and eventually eradicate marine pollution by integrates policy assessments, legal framework and water governance tactics via an interdisciplinary approach to suggest practical for addressing this worldwide water pollution issue.
Optimizing Public Awareness Campaigns and Behavior Change Strategies for Reducing Micro- and Nano-Plastic Pollution
Authors: Yadav Mohit , Pandey Ashutosh , Nghiem Xuan-Hoa , Singh Rashika
Published: October 2024

Micro- and nano-plastic pollution poses a significant environmental and health challenge. This chapter explores the potential of public awareness campaigns and behavior change strategies in mitigating this issue. It delves into the critical role of social media and influencers in fostering sustainable practices. The chapter examines effective communication channels, messaging strategies, and audience segmentation to optimize campaign impact. It also analyzes the influence of influencers on shaping public perceptions and driving behavioral shifts. By understanding the dynamics of social media and influencer marketing, policymakers, environmental organizations, and businesses can develop targeted interventions to reduce plastic pollution and promote sustainable lifestyles. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on effective communication strategies for environmental challenges.
Empowering Tourists Through Technology
Authors: Konar Rupam , Islam Md. Tariqul , Kumar Jeetesh , Bhutia Lazey Doma
Published: October 2024

The rapid advancements in ICTs and the rise of Web 3.0 have revolutionized the tourism industry, reshaping the creation and delivery of experiences through digital co-creation. This article explores how these technologies facilitate active tourist participation in developing travel experiences, with a focus on the Malaysian tourism sector. Using the Service-Dominant (S-D) logic framework, it highlights the shift from traditional goods-dominant logic to a service-oriented approach, fostering a more interactive and collaborative environment. Digital platforms like social media and travel blogs play a crucial role in personalizing experiences and building a sense of community. The integration of AI and IoT further enhances authenticity and personalization. The article also addresses challenges in data management, the need for a supportive organizational culture, and opportunities for innovative tourism products and sustainable development. Future research should examine the long-term impacts of digital co-creation on tourism.
Harnessing Digital Technologies to Enrich Tourist Experiences at Cultural Heritage Sites
Authors: Ashok Monika B. , Thomas Joby
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines how digital technology might improve visitors' experiences at cultural heritage sites in a revolutionary way. Through the use of technologies like digital storytelling, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and mobile applications, heritage sites may provide visitors with immersive and interactive experiences that enhance comprehension. The chapter looks at how mobile apps enable individualized and educational tours, while AR and VR technology offer virtual excursions and dynamic reconstructions. It also covers the advantages of multimedia integration and digital storytelling in enhancing the accessibility and impact of heritage narratives. The chapter also discusses the difficulties in putting these technologies into practice, such as problems with digital divides, accessibility, and authenticity. It illustrates the potential of digital innovations to not only promote and conserve cultural heritage but also to support sustainable tourism practices and improve tourist satisfaction through a study of recent literature and case studies.
Digital Marketing and Territorial Attractiveness of Innovative Entrepreneurship
Authors: Laoute Chaimaa , Aarabe Mourad , Ben Khizzou Nouhaila , Alla Lhoussaine , Alj Bouchra , Benjelloun Ahmed
Published: October 2024

In order to meet the challenges of globalisation and enhance the attractiveness of their territories, local and regional players need to adopt innovative territorial approaches and strategies. The aim is to attract and retain residents, talent, innovative entrepreneurs, etc., and to stimulate economic growth and development in their nations. It is in this context that digital territorial marketing has emerged as a digital tool and an innovative approach to improving the attractiveness of territories.The chapter we propose falls within this context and aims to highlight the importance of using digital territorial marketing to promote the territorial attractiveness of innovative entrepreneurship. Methodology of the qualitative study A qualitative research approach has been chosen as the methodology. Data will be collected through semi-structured interviews.
Managing the E-Reputation and Attractiveness of Destinations Through Online Reviews
Authors: Zarrouk Imane , Boukil Mehdi , Moussas Kawtar , Er-Rousse Omar
Published: October 2024

The internet has become crucial for travel planning, providing extensive information on destinations, including accommodation, tourist sites, culture, history, and gastronomy. Online reviews, deemed more reliable than traditional sources, help mitigate the risk of poor choices before booking. This study focuses on the Medina of Fes, a popular Moroccan destination, analyzing reviews from 120 tourists of 22 nationalities on TripAdvisor and interviews with local stakeholders. Highlights include traditional tanneries, local craftsmanship, the authenticity of local life, and the city's rich history. However, issues such as harassment by guides and street vendors, and challenges with some accommodations, are noted. The findings emphasize the need for measures to regulate tourist practices, ensure visitor safety, and preserve the authenticity of the Fes experience. Raising local awareness, regulating guides and vendors, and improving accommodation standards are essential for a positive and sustainable visitor experience.
How Does Digital Transformation Influence Collaborative Green Innovation?
Authors: Chen Rongxin , Zhang Beifan , Chen Yuhao
Published: October 2024

In the era of digitalization and green development, collaborative green innovation is gaining increasing attention. However, how digital transformation affects green innovation, especially collaboration in green innovation is understudied. Based on the data analysis of Chinese listed firms between 2008 and 2021, this study investigates the relationship between digital transformation and collaborative green innovation and explores further the contingencies of financial slack and market competition. Our findings are as follows: 1) digital transformation increases the likelihood of having collaborative green innovation; 2) financial slack enhances this positive relationship, while the moderating role of market competition is not significant. Overall, our study advances both green innovation and digital transformation literature by building a linkage between digital transformation, collaboration innovation, and green innovation.
Descriptions of Anthrenus (s. str.) senegalensis, Anthrenus (s. str.) crypticus, a new species from Senegal, and Anthrenus (s. str.) fosteri, a new species from Algeria (Coleoptera: Dermestidae: Megatominae)
Authors: Holloway Graham J.
Published: October 2024

All specimens labelled Anthrenus senegalensis were borrowed from the Natural History Museum, London. A. senegalensis is a poorly known species, so the aim is to provide a good description of the species associated with habitus and genitalia images. Three species were noted in the sample: A. senegalensis, A. crypticus sp. nov., and A. fosteri sp. nov.. A. crypticus and A. fosteri are described along with A. senegalensis, the most likely confusion species. Habitus and genitalia images of all three species are provided.
Alignment of digital health value propositions to business models in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ogundaini Oluwamayowa O. , Achieng Mourine S.
Published: October 2024

Orientation: Digital health delivers value in the form of efficiency, efficacy and transformation by automation and strengthening of global health care systems, according to the World Health Organization. Yet, sub-Saharan Africa’s (SSA) health care systems still experience an evident misalignment between their business models (BMs) and digital health value propositions. As a result, digital health interventions (DHI) are duplicated for similar purposes; several pilot projects hardly reach country-wide implementation and health security remains unattainable, in the Fourth Industrial Revolution era.Research purpose: The study aims to conduct a scoping review highlighting how the value-add propositions of DHI could align with health care system BMs in SSA.Motivation for the study: The study was informed by the need to address the impact of health care business models on adopting Digital Health and advanced Industry 4.0 technologies for Health Security in the sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) context.Research design, approach and method: The paper followed Arksey and O’Malley’s five-stage scoping review guide to identify publications on the value propositions of DHI in health care systems of SSA.Main findings: There is limited scholarly work focused on how sub-Saharan African health care system BMs cater to DHI in relation to the fast-paced advancements in technology. Drivers of value-add creation, inhibitors of digital health value capture and the requirements of BMs that support the value propositions offered by DHI were discussed.Practical/managerial implications: Findings can assist health managers to redirect the trajectory of integrating digital health value propositions interventions in SSA health care systems towards redressing recurrent challenges that inhibit technology adoption.Contribution/value-add: The paper highlights how the value-add propositions of digital health should be aligned to BMs of health care systems in SSA to ensure duplications are addressed and provide a move towards wide-scale implementations.
Potential liquid biopsy markers of exosomal microRNAs in renal interstitial fibrosis blood and urine
Authors: Lv Chunyan , Zhong Yuan , Hu Yao , Tang Yan
Published: October 2024

Objective:

To explore more and better liquid biopsy markers of exosomal microRNAs (exo-miRNAs) in renal interstitial fibrosis (RIF) and to preliminary investigate the biological functions and signaling pathways involved in these markers.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

High-throughput miRNA sequencing was performed on blood and urine exo-miRNAs from three RIF patients and three healthy volunteers, and differential expression analysis and bioinformatic processing were performed.

Results:

There were 13 differentially expressed exo-miRNA (DEexo-miRNA) between RIF and healthy blood, and 20 DEexo-miRNAs in urine. These were various DEexo-miRNAs in different specimens, and the former included PC-3p-213532_58, hsa-miR-338-5p_R-1, PC-5p-34127_410, pal-miR-9993a-3p_L+2R-1, and hsa-miR-26a-1-3p with intermediate expression levels; the latter involved hsa-miR-126-3p, hsa-miR-217-5p, hsa-miR-199b-3p_R-1, mmu-miR-5106_R-4_1ss1AG, and PC-5p-39041_356, and others, while hsa-miR-378a-3p, hsa-miR-143-3p_R+1, hsa-miR-183-5p, hsa-miR-126-3p, hsa-miR-155-5p_R-1, mmu-miR-5106_R-4_1ss1AG, hsa-miR-126-5p, and hsa-miR-199b-3p_R-1 had high expression levels. Bioinformatics analysis of the up-regulated DEmiRNA with high expression in urine showed that there are 291 target corresponding mRNAs for six of eight DEexo-miRNAs, with mmu-miR-5106_R-4_1ss1AG and hsa-miR-199b-3p_R-1 having no target gene found in TargetScan and miRanda. GO annotation revealed that GO:0005515 (protein binding) had the lowest P value, involving the most genes. KEGG analysis revealed that the signaling included the mTOR signaling pathway, autophagy - animal, etc., and hsa05200 (pathways in cancer) had a lower P value, involving the most genes.

Conclusions:

Urine is a better sample for RIF exo-miRNA detection than blood. Urinary exosomal hsa-miR-143-3p_R+1, hsa-miR-183-5p, hsa-miR-126-3p, mmu-miR-5106_R-4_1ss1AG, hsa-miR-126-5p, and hsa-miR-199b-3p_R-1 are novel liquid biopsy markers for RIF. These DEexo-miRNA may be associated with the occurrence and development of RIF and may participate in specific biological processes by regulating the expression of their target mRNA. Further research may require exploring the specific functions and mechanisms of these miRNAs in RIF, as well as whether they can serve as diagnostic or therapeutic targets for RIF.
Trends of coinfections among healthy blood donors: COVID-19 pandemic repercussion
Authors: Kukar Neetu , Handa Anjali , Syal Neha , Garg Parul , Gopalpuri Navreet S. , Kaur Harpreet
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfection has emerged as a leading cause of morbidity throughout the world in the last two decades. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has escalated the disease burden further by increasing the number of intravenous (IV) drug abusers and unemployment.

Aim:

The present study was done to analyse the impact of COVID-19 on seroprevalence as well as trends during pre, post and pandemic years of coinfection and mono-infections in the Malwa region of Punjab.

Setting and Design:

This descriptive cross-sectional study was done in the department of immunohematology and blood transfusion at a tertiary care hospital.

Materials and Methods:

The data on transfusion-transmitted infections (TTIs) was collected for a period of four years from 2019 to 2022, that is, pre, post and during the pandemic period. All the blood samples were screened for viral markers, HIV I and II, HCV, and hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) technique. Malarial antigen and syphilis infection testing was done using a rapid diagnostic card test. The total number of sero-reactive cases and their distribution were noted.

Results:

A total of 58,953 donors were screened and included during the study period. Each blood donor was identified by a donor registration number. The overall TTI seroprevalence in blood donors was 2.83% (n = 1670). The seroprevalence of TTIs in blood donors showed an increasing trend for HIV, HCV, and HBsAg in 2019–2021, whereas there was a decrease in reactivity status in the 2022 (back to pre-pandemic year). There was a significant increase in the coinfection rate from 0.1% to 0.25%.

Conclusion:

The COVID-19 pandemic impact on the coinfection rate of TTI was significant. To curb these TTIs and coinfections, education and public awareness are the key factors. India is a developing country, so transfusion medicine specialists need to work day and night to practice safe blood services.
Breastfeeding knowledge, practices, and their determinants among recently delivered mothers: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Srivastava Anurag , Mahmood Syed Esam , Srivastava Payal , Shati Ayed A. , Riaz Fatima
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Breastfeeding is an important determinant of child survival. Breastfeeding practices vary throughout the nation.

Objectives:

To assess the breastfeeding practices and the knowledge of recently delivered mothers regarding breastfeeding practices.

Materials and Methods:

This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among women who had delivered in the Moradabad region of Uttar Pradesh last year. A total of 423 households was divided between the six community health blocks according to probability sampling. A predesigned and pretested structured questionnaire was utilized to collect data. Knowledge scores were calculated.

Results:

The majority of respondents had the correct knowledge about breastfeeding immediately after birth (76.6%), prelacteal foods should not be provided (82.2%), colostrum feeding (89.0%), adequate frequency of breastfeeding (99.1%), and exclusively breastfeeding (78.7%). The knowledge scores about breastfeeding were good (64.9%) for mothers. A higher proportion of respondents practiced breastfeeding only, or cup fed with breast milk only their babies for the first 2 days of life (62.3%), and the majority fed their baby with adequate frequency. Only (55.7%) put their baby to breast within an hour after birth. Colostrum was not squeezed and thrown by nearly (59.7%) of mothers. The breastfeeding practices scores were good among one-third of mothers. Age of mother, type of family, mother’s education, socioeconomic status, and type of delivery were significant determinants of good breastfeeding practices (<0.05).

Conclusions:

The knowledge and practices of infant feeding can be strengthened by further engaging and counseling of mothers, family, and community members by health workers.
Evaluation of the prevalence and influencing factors on poly-pharmacy among elderly patients - A review
Authors: Ahmadfakhrodin Mahak , Ghalati Sahar Yousefi , Mazinani Sara , HekmatiPour Nafiseh , Mazalzadeh Fakhriyeh , Ghiasi Nasrin
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

The evaluation of adverse effects caused by poly-pharmacy (PHP) in patients, especially in the elderly group, is very important. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence and factors affecting PHP in elderly patients. This study was conducted as a narrative review. Related articles were downloaded using reliable international databases and specialized mesh terms. Finally, the results of 29 articles were extracted based on the authors’ names, study location, sample size, and key results. The findings of the study showed that the prevalence of PHP in the elderly was higher after discharge from the hospital than during hospitalization. In addition, the prevalence of PHP in the elderly who lived in care centers was higher than in those who lived at home. Based on the findings, there was a relationship between the source of obtaining information about drugs and the pattern of PHP consumption. The findings of the present study showed that PHP leads to serious complications in the elderly. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that some variables such as age, sex, health level, financial status, place of residence, type of disease, number of simultaneous diseases, hospitalization, duration of hospitalization, level of awareness of the elderly and their caregivers, the care place of elderly, and the number of visits of the elderly to the physician can be effective in the prevalence of PHP. Strategies such as choosing treatment goals for each patient in preventing unnecessary drug use, identifying at-risk groups, and periodically monitoring the benefits and side effects of drugs can be effective in reducing drug complications caused by PHP in the elderly.
Understanding addictive behaviour of a group of slum dwelling female SLT users on the basis of PRIME theory: A case study in Odisha, India
Authors: Rath Hemamalini , Patyal Neha , Mishra Manikesh , Panda Abhijit , Sahoo Jyotirmayee
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:

Tobacco addiction is an important public health problem. Among several theories of addiction proposed, PRIME theory of motivation is found to be a comprehensive one to synthesise prevention strategies.

Aims:

This case study was conducted on the basis of PRIME theory to explain smokeless tobacco (SLT) addiction patterns among slum dwelling female residents of Cuttack district, Odisha.

Settings and Design:

Cuttack district of Odisha state and Qualitative synthesis.

Methods and Material:

Qualitative semistructured face-to-face interviews and framework analysis techniques were employed. The study was conducted over a period of 2 months between February 2020 and March 2020. Face-to-face interviews of 26 participants of Dasha Sahi slum using a semistructured questionnaire assessing responses based on five main themes including P, Plans; R, Responses; I, Impulses And Inhibitory Forces; M, Motives; and E, Evaluations of the said theory.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Verbatim transcripts were analysed using thematic framework analysis.

Results:

A majority of the participants were multiple SLT product users, and they did not have an immediate plan to quit. Most of the participants showed strong emotional attachment with these products and considered them the only source of pleasure (want) in a life full of miseries. The words “Tobacco” and “Nicotine” were medical jargons for them. Though they were aware of the harmful effects, they had a positive evaluative belief about its use because of cognitive dissonance. Most of them were habitual users living in an environment full of physical and social cues.

Conclusions:

This case study is well in line with the PRIME theory in explaining the addictive behaviour; a comprehensive multi-strategic approach was formulated for inculcating quitting behaviour among this disadvantaged section of the population as suggested by the proposer of this theory.
A family physician for all Indian families: A vision for 2047
Authors: Kumar Raman
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

As India progresses towards its centenary of independence in 2047, the need for a comprehensive and compassionate healthcare system that emphasizes the role of family physicians has never been more urgent. Family physicians serve as the bedrock of primary health care, providing a holistic approach that encompasses preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care for individuals across all stages of life. This vision for 2047 articulates a future where every Indian family has access to a dedicated family physician who addresses their healthcare needs and promotes health education, and community well-being.
Does psychoeducation module-based community intervention address Internet addiction among school-going adolescents? A quasi-experimental study from Mangalore, India
Authors: Narayanappa Poornima Hosadurga , Nirgude Abhay Subhashrao , Nattala Prasanthi , Philip Mariamma
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Excessive and uncontrolled use of the Internet leads to Internet addiction and negatively affects the physical and mental health of adolescents. Normalization of the Internet and electronic gadgets during the COVID-19 pandemic increased the vulnerability of adolescents to developing behavioral dependency on Internet use. Intervention is needed to protect the formative years and to grow as responsible net users.

Aim:

To study the effectiveness of psychoeducational module-based community intervention on Internet addiction in adolescents.

Method:

This was a quasiexperimental study with pre- and post-test design. The study subjects were homogeneous and purposively selected single group from a secondary school in a city in southern India. Group intervention was executed for 5 to 6 hours with a prevalidated psychoeducation module on Internet addiction. The intervention focused on the prevention and control of Internet addiction. The level of Internet addiction was measured by using Kimberly Young’s Internet Addiction Test-20.

Results:

Of the total of 144 subjects, 72% were males and 28% were females. All were 14–16 years of age and were well versed with Internet gadgets and smartphone use and self-reported the use of the Internet/gadgets for at least 2 hours a day for recreational purposes. Descriptive analysis and RMANOVA show interventions were significantly effective (P < 0.001). Among total participants, the Internet addiction found at preintervention was 44.75 ± 19.69, with a postintervention at first month of 34.73 ± 16.14 and a postintervention at second month of 28.84 ± 13.98; reduced duration of Internet use was significant (P < 0.001) at postintervention.

Conclusion:

The psychoeducation module-based group intervention in community school settings is well accepted and effective on Internet addiction in adolescents.
Comparison of the effectiveness of ferrous ascorbate with ferrous sulphate in improving haemoglobin percentage among ante-natal mothers in rural field practice area of a medical college
Authors: Govindaraju S L Manojna , Yalamanchili Padmasri , Kandipudi Kesava Lakshmi Prasad , Vadlamani Sarada
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Anaemia in pregnancy is defined by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a haemoglobin concentration of less than 11 g/dl in venous blood. The prevalence of anaemia among ante-natal mothers in India is 50.3%[3]. The government of India supplies ferrous sulphate for prophylaxis and treatment of anaemia among ante-natal mothers for free through the reproductive maternal neonatal and child health + adolescent (RMNCH+A) programme. However, patient compliance is poor due to gastrointestinal disturbances (of all registered pregnancies, less than 1/3 consumed a full course of ferrous sulphate). Previous studies in different settings have shown increased compliance and higher mean haemoglobin levels with ferrous ascorbate, which is more affordable than other commercially available compounds.

Objective:

Hence, the current study was done to compare the effectiveness of ferrous ascorbate with ferrous sulphate in improving haemoglobin percentage among ante-natal mothers in a rural field practice area of a medical college.

Methods:

An interventional community-based study was conducted in the rural field practice area of Andhra Medical College. The study was done among 76 registered (registered at Rural Primary Health Centre Simhachalam) ante-natal mothers in gestational age 13–17 weeks with haemoglobin concentration of 7–10.9 g/dl (mild to moderate anaemia) after taking informed consent. The study was performed for two years. Ante-natal mothers who were registered but unavailable during the study period, with a medical history of haematological disorders, chronic cardiac and kidney diseases, known or suspected to have sensitivity to iron compounds, with known thyroid dysfunction or mental illness were excluded from the study.

Results:

There was a rise in haemoglobin among the entire study population, which was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). There was a higher rise in haemoglobin among the antenatal women who took ferrous ascorbate than among those who took ferrous sulphate (mean difference = 0.344 gm/dl) after 12 weeks of follow-up, which was statistically significant (P = 0.014).

Conclusion:

The study compared the effectiveness of ferrous ascorbate with ferrous sulphate in improving haemoglobin percentage among antenatal mothers in a medical college’s rural field practice area. There was a significant rise in haemoglobin percentage among the study group, which was on ferrous ascorbate with better compliance and fewer gastrointestinal side effects.
Capacity building initiative for first-aid trainers and providers from the community and for the community: A quasiexperimental pilot study in schools
Authors: Khapre Meenakshi , Dhar Mridul , Anjali M , Bhushan Bharat , Ajith Athulya V. , Rao Shalinee
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Schools provide an ideal setting for teaching first-aid skills. A concern is who should train these students when medical doctors and paramedics are busy in hospitals. School teachers can be enabled with instructors’ skills for delivering first-aid training to students under the supervision of one lead instructor. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of structured first-aid training by trained teachers on knowledge and practice of first aid among school children of Rishikesh, Uttarakhand.

Methods:

This was a school-based pre- and post-test study. A convenient sample of 109 students (30–40 in each group) were recruited. The first phase was the assessment of needs by focus group discussion with school teachers and students, followed by the development and validation of the module and questionnaire. In the implementation phase, teachers were trained in first aid and facilitation skills, followed by students’ training. Knowledge and skill assessment was carried out. Feedback was noted.

Result:

Need assessment interviews revealed first aid is needed for injuries and bleeding, sprain and fractures, basic life support, choking, nose bleed, animal/insect bites, and lifting/transport of victims. The pretest mean score of students was 6 (2) and increased to 16 (2.1). The relative learning gain was 167%, and absolute was 50%. All students were satisfied with the course and instructors. The facilitation skills score of teachers increased from 39-49 just after training to 67-72 by the end of the second workshop.

Conclusion:

Teachers as facilitators for first-aid training of school students were found to be effective and feasible, and students were highly satisfied with the course and facilitators.
Patterns of identity: Lip prints, tongue prints and mandibular canine width as markers for gender determination—A cross-sectional study
Authors: Rana Priyanka , Suresh Dirasantchu , Sekhar M. Chandra , Sravanthi Y Mercy , Mehta Karan Hiral
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Forensic odontology plays a pivotal role in identifying individuals in legal contexts. This study analyses the efficacy of lip prints, tongue prints and mandibular canine width in determining gender, aiming to contribute to the evolving field of forensic dentistry.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 100 participants, analysing lip prints based on Tsuchihashi’s classification, recording tongue shapes and features through the use of alginate impressions and measuring mandibular canine width using a vernier calliper. The findings were reported in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Results:

In lip prints, Tsuchihashi’s Type I lip print was predominantly found in females, whereas Tsuchihashi’s Type III prevailed in males. Tongue shapes revealed a predominance of pentagonal shapes in males and ovoid shapes in females. The lingual apex was blunt in males and sharp in females. Mandibular canine width was higher in males than females on both the left and right sides.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study support the use of lip prints, tongue prints and canine width in determining gender as ancillary and supporting methods.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practice about Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission and Digital Health among hospital patients
Authors: Arjun M. C. , Poorvikha S , Kurpad Anura V. , Thomas Tinku
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Aim:

The Government of India launched the Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission (ABDM) to digitize the national healthcare system. The aim of this study was to estimate the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding the ABDM and benefits of digital health among urban patients, who are likely to be early adopters of digital technologies.

Methods:

We interviewed 150 outpatients above 18 years of age, in a hospital in urban Bengaluru, India. Our questionnaire captured the knowledge, attitude and practice regarding ABDM and Digital Health, including open-ended questions to evaluate perceptions of the benefits and concerns regarding digital health.

Results:

Most of the participants belonged to the upper and upper middle socioeconomic classes. Only 8% of participants knew about the ABDM, although their knowledge and practice related to other Government digital services, like National Teleconsultation services (eSanjeevani), Arogya Setu and DigiLocker, were high. Many participants perceived digital health to be beneficial, but there were serious concerns regarding data safety, data privacy and misuse of health data by insurance companies.

Conclusion:

We established a baseline survey for assessing the knowledge, attitudes and practices of ABDM and digital health among urban patients. The results suggest that implementation agencies of ABDM should increase the Information, Education and Communication (IEC) and devise new strategies to create awareness, disseminate correct information and address the concerns of citizens.
Training on empathy skills for elderly persons to medical undergraduates: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Chaudhuri Susmita , Ghose Sauryadripta , Santra Archismita , Paul Kalyan Kumar , Pandey Rajneesh
Published: October 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Undergraduate medical students often lack the soft skill of empathy which is considered as an important attribute for doctors. Hence, this study was conducted to improve the empathy skills among undergraduate students of a medical college in Kolkata.

Methods:

A quasi-experimental study was conducted in the Rural Health Training Centre of a medical college in Kolkata among the undergraduate medical students during community medicine posting. Students were assessed for baseline empathy by Jefferson’s Scale of Empathy (student’s version) (JSE-S). Baseline perception was taken from geriatric persons about the empathy level of medical undergraduates using Jefferson’s Scale of Patient’s Perception about Physician’s Empathy (JSPPE). Training module was prepared, validated and imparted. Post-training score was obtained using the scales for students as well as geriatric persons. Data were entered in MS Excel and analysed using STATA MP16.

Results:

Total of 93 students participated. Overall Mean ± SD of pre-score of JES-S was 102.03 ± 13.02, and post-score was 109.03 ± 14.57; the difference was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001). With respect to JSPPE, score difference was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.001). Significant difference was present in scores between the students who prefer people-oriented specialities compared to the technology-oriented specialities (P < 0.05). Increase in mean empathy score was significantly higher among female students than their male counterparts (P = 0.01).

Conclusion(s):

The study shows the effectiveness of training module in increasing empathy score among medical undergraduates which is the need of the hour to establish the proper building block of doctor-patient relationship.