bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of colour vision among self-referred patients for glucose monitoring in ESUT teaching hospital, Parklane, Nigeria using Hardy-Rand-Rittler colour vision test
Authors: Ozioko Nnenna M. , Eze Gloria C.
Published: November 2024

Background: Worldwide, diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic metabolic disease that has a substantial impact on public health necessitating the need for screening populations at risk since it is linked to several sequelae, including diabetic retinopathy (DR). Despite evidence from studies linking colour vision impairments to diabetic eye disease, colour vision is not frequently tested for in diabetic eye screening protocols.
Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using the Hardy-Rand-Rittler pseudoisochromatic color vision test for diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening due to its cost-effectiveness and ease of use. Conducted at ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, standard eye examinations, including dilated fundus assessments and visual acuity tests, were conducted alongside color vision evaluations over a three-month period for a total of 57 patients on self-referred blood glucose monitoring appointments.
Results: The research involved participants with fair glycemic control (average blood sugar level of 159.28 mg/dl). Those aged 48-57 had the highest likelihood of moderate color vision abnormalities while 73.7% of them demonstrated mild unclassified defects on the Hardy-rand- rattler colour vision testing.
Conclusions: The Hardy-Rand-Rittler test for color vision could be valuable for screening older diabetes patients, particularly in resource-limited areas. Detecting anomalies early may indicate retinal disease, prompting further eye examinations and immediate intervention.
Perceptions of pregnancy, labour, and post-partum difficulties related with the adoption of focused antenatal care services among women of reproductive age in Sirisia Sub-County, Bungoma County, Kenya
Authors: Makunja Tobias , Kariuki John , Ndwiga Taratisio
Published: November 2024

Background: Focused antenatal care (FANC) adoption is significantly influenced by women's perceptions of pregnancy, labour, and post-partum difficulties. Cultural beliefs, personal experiences, and social norms shape these perceptions, affecting whether women seek FANC services. Fear of medical procedures and privacy concerns also deter FANC adoption. These perceptions contribute to FANC underutilization, potentially compromising maternal and neonatal health outcomes.
Methods: Analytical cross-sectional study design was used and 323 participants in the selected wards in Sirisia subcounty, Bungoma County, Kenya. Data was collected using interviewer administered structured questionnaire, and focus group discussion. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 29.0 and involved univariate and bivariate analysis. Bivariate analysis was done through logistic regression was used to test the significance of the association between the dependent and independent variables (p<0.05). Qualitative data was analyzed by thematic content analysis.
Results: More than half 183 (56.7%) had initial prenatal care attendance between 4-6 months and 17 (5.3%) between 7-9 months. Further, 202 (62.5%) had four or more ANC visits with 5 (1.5%) and 85 (26.3%) had one and three visits respectively. Significant relationships were found between FANC uptake and positive perceptions of well-being (OR=5.810), worry alleviation (OR=2.425), complication reduction (OR=5.011), birth preparedness (OR=4.551), service access (OR=3.005), and risk detection (OR=5.847). Barriers included fatigue (66%), permission requirements (67%), and transportation issues (65%). Factors like clinic distance, terrain, waiting times, and staffing shortages significantly influenced FANC uptake (p=0.0001).
Conclusions: FANC uptake influenced by perceived benefits and demographics. Logistical challenges remain. Recommendations include mobile clinics and community health worker education to improve access and awareness.
Glycaemic durability and compliance among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients from India: results from the companion survey
Authors: Kalra Sanjay , Deshmukh Vaishali , Joshi Ameya , Agarwal Sameer , P. Baruah Manash , Sahay Rakesh
Published: November 2024

Background: The COMPANION research survey was conducted to understand glycemic durability and compliance with existing care among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in India.
Methods: The cross-sectional observational survey enrolled 367 physicians; each physician responded to a questionnaire based on observation of 15 T2DM patients in their clinical practice and overall clinical experience. The survey questionnaire consisted of 6 sections with questions on durability of glycemic control, treatment adherence, patient compliance and time- in-range (TIR).
Results: Most physicians agreed that durability of glycemic control was an important factor for better clinical outcomes. More than half of the physicians believed that glycemic control was determined by medication adherence, lifestyle modifications, class of antidiabetic drugs, and duration of diabetes. Along with a weight neutral effect, physicians opined that vildagliptin exhibited reduced risk of hypoglycemia. Stopping medications after feeling better and trouble in swallowing tablets were the two main reasons for medication non-adherence. EAZYGLIDE™ tablet, a fixed-dose combination of vildagliptin plus metformin, was found to improve patient adherence and compliance. In patients with poor TIR, around 76% of physicians recommended dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor therapy. In all, 87% of physicians prescribed ambulatory glucose profile (AGP) to patients with increased risk of hypoglycemia.
Conclusion: Appropriate evaluation of glycemic control plays a vital role in the overall management of T2D. EAZYGLIDE™ tablet exhibited improved patient adherence and compliance to therapy owing to its improved features. Patient education about continuous glucose monitoring and AGP and prescription of suitable medications are necessary for enhancing overall clinical outcomes.
Arnett’s soft tissue norms in north western Himalayan population: a cephalometric study
Authors: Mahadevan Nithya , Sood Sankalp , Mahajan Monika , Negi Susheel , Negi K. S.
Published: November 2024

Background: This study was conducted to establish soft tissue cephalometric norms and compare males and females of north western Himalayan range population with that of soft tissue Arnett’s norms.
Methods: The study group comprised of 110 subjects (51 females and 59 males) within age 18-25 years, having class I molar relation with well-balanced faces. The null hypothesis was there will be no statistically significant difference in the soft tissue parameters between the groups. Cephalograms were manually traced and the mean values of various parameters were compared with Arnett’s norms of Caucasian population as well as between males and females of the study group.
Results: The overjet, overbite, lip thickness, facial length, maxillary projection and mandibular projection were decreased in the study group when compared to the controls. Statistically significant differences were found in various parameters between males and females of the study group as compared to the control group. Males had increased overjet, increased lower facial height, retrusive maxilla, procumbent lips than females.
Conclusions: This study concluded that the norms of Arnett’s Caucasian population cannot be applied to the population of other geographic regions.
Screen addiction and associated factors among grade-10 school children in Nuwaragampalatha- east educational zone in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka
Authors: Manori D. M. Shamila , Bowatta P. G. Sanjeewa , Basnayaka Umesha Pamandi , Fernando Janith Madushanka W. , Nishshanka Nithum Thathsarani , Pathirana Kasumini Sasiritha H. P. , Senarathna Deshini Nuwanthika A. M.
Published: November 2024

Background: Screen addiction has become a significant concern among school children in recent years due to the widespread use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. The objective was to assess the prevalence of screen addition and associated factors among grade 10 students in Nuwaragampalatha- east educational zone in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.
Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out among students studying in grade 10. Sample size was 318. Three schools selected randomly from Type 1AB, IC and type 2 categories and proportionate to the number of students in grade 10, sample was recruited from each school. Study instruments comprised Internet addiction test, Perceived stress scale and an interviewer administered questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression was utilized to identify associated factors of screen addiction. Probability <0.05 was selected as the significant level. The results were expressed as odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results: Response rate was 100% (N=318).  Mild screen addiction was reported among 29.6% (95% CI=24.6-34.9) and 20.1% (95% CI=15.9-25.0%) showed moderate level while 1.6% (95%CI=0.5-3.6) had severe addiction. Half of the students (n=155) with no screen addiction. Male sex (AOR=1.9; 95% CI=1.1-3.3; p=0.021), spending more than two hours with social media (AOR=6.1; 95% CI=3.5-13.5; p<0.001),  moderate and high stress levels (AOR=3.9; 95% CI=2.3-7.0; p<0.001) and not engage in physical exercises > one hour per day (AOR=2.4; 95% CI=1.2-4.8; p=0.014) were found to be associated factors with screen addiction.
Conclusions: More than half of the students had some form of screen addiction. Except sex, other associated factors are modifiable.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding immunization among mothers of under-five children in Chitoor district, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Rangaraju Sai Madhuri , Alivelu Ravi Saddala , Abhilash Patra , Nirupama A. Y. , Varun Agiwal , Sai Guru Datta Vemula , Anjali Buniyad , Srinivas Karpuram Sai , Princy Bennett Gudapati
Published: November 2024

Background: Immunization is a vital public health strategy to protect children from infectious diseases, achieved through the administration of vaccines. India's universal immunization program (UIP) provides free vaccines against 11 life-threatening diseases for children under the age of five. Despite its importance, immunization coverage in many areas remains inadequate due to various factors, including limited awareness, accessibility challenges, and misconceptions.
Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted in PHC Pedda Upparpalli, Chitoor district, Andhra Pradesh, aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of mothers with children under five regarding immunization. A structured interview questionnaire was used to collect data, and scoring methods were applied to categorize knowledge levels.
Results: Results indicated that while awareness of the importance of vaccination was high, knowledge regarding specific vaccines and contraindications was limited. Attitudes toward vaccination were generally positive, with mothers acknowledging its importance and safety. Most mothers exhibited good vaccination practices, with a majority following the immunization schedule. Interestingly, the study found no significant association between knowledge and sociodemographic factors except for income. This suggests that income level may influence mothers' knowledge of immunization.
Conclusions: This study highlights the importance of improving knowledge and addressing misconceptions surrounding immunization to achieve complete vaccination coverage. Strategies such as targeted health education and awareness campaigns are essential, especially in underserved communities. Further research on a larger scale and in different geographic settings is recommended to gain a comprehensive understanding of immunization practices in India.
A cross-sectional study on social anxiety disorder and self- esteem among undergraduate medical students of a tertiary health care centre in central India
Authors: George Anju , Jadhao Ashok R. , Agrawal Sanjay , Mathew Ebin , M. Kalaivani
Published: November 2024

Background: Social anxiety disorder (SAD) aka social phobia is a persistent fear of one or more social situations where embarrassment may occur and the fear or anxiety is out of proportion to the actual threat posed by the social situation as determined by the cultural norms. Self-esteem is an attitude or a sense of worth as a person. People low in self-esteem are generally more dependent on others and more susceptible to external cues that carry self-relevant implication. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of Social anxiety disorder and to assess the status of self-esteem and to determine the association of SAD with self-esteem among undergraduate medical students.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 382 undergraduate medical students and interns of a tertiary health care institute. Social phobia was assessed using Social-phobia-Inventory (SPIN) questionnaire and self-esteem using Rosenberg self-esteem scale.
Results: Among 382 study participants, 180 (47.1%) were females and 202 (52.9%) were males. 203 (53.1%) had social anxiety disorder. 135 (35.3%) students had low self-esteem. There was a statistically significant association between social phobia and status of self-esteem.
Conclusions: This study showed that a higher proportion of medical students had social anxiety disorder and 35.3% had low self-esteem. So, early detection and appropriate intervention need to be done among the students to improve self-esteem and to enhance social interaction by their institutes.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice assessment in diabetic foot ulcer grading: a prospective cohort observational study
Authors: Manimozhi K. , Lokeshvaran D. , Theesmi Bershani P. , Jayaseelan J. , Abinish D. G.
Published: November 2024

Background: Diabetes is a group of disorders marked by chronic high blood sugar due to issues with insulin. It includes type 1, type 2, genetic and drug-induced types, and gestational diabetes. A serious complication of diabetes is diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), caused by peripheral neuropathy, vascular problems, and infections, which can lead to severe outcomes like amputations.
Methods: A prospective cohort observational study was conducted over six months at a tertiary care teaching hospital involving 163 diabetic patients with foot ulcers, aged 20 to 80. The study assessed knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) regarding DFUs using a translated KAP questionnaire. Ulcer grades were classified using the Wagner system. Data were collected on socio-demographic factors, disease-related factors, and practices related to foot care.
Results: This study found most of the participants were under the age group of 41-50, with a higher prevalence of females, and predominantly had type 2 diabetes. Common co-morbidities included hypertension, eye issues, and cardiovascular disease. Ulcer grading showed that most patients had Wagner grade 2 ulcers. Many participants lacked awareness about diabetes-related foot risks. Although most were open to lifestyle changes, many had gaps in foot care, with few following recommended practices.
Conclusions: The study highlights the importance of better patient education and counselling to manage diabetic foot ulcers effectively. Although participants had a positive attitude towards foot care, there were significant gaps in their knowledge and practices. Healthcare providers, including pharmacists, need to improve education and communication to address these issues and help prevent severe complications.
Unravelling the influence of sociodemographic factors on eHealth literacy and online health seeking behaviour: a rural-urban comparative study
Authors: Yadav Amit , Gurav Ravindra , Samel Dinesh
Published: November 2024

Background: The proliferation of digital technology has led to the emergence of eHealth literacy, vital for navigating health information online. India's Digital India program and initiatives like the National Digital Literacy Mission aim to address digital illiteracy and promote access to digital resources. However, socioeconomic disparities persist, contributing to significant digital divide between rural and urban areas. This study was conducted to assess the impact of sociodemographic factors on eHealth literacy and online health seeking behaviour of people.
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study surveyed 380 adults over 18, residing in area for at least a year, including both rural and urban residents. Data collected through face-to-face administration of structured questionnaire and eHEALS tool in April 2024. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analysis were conducted using SPSS version 29, with significance level set at 0.05.
Results: The study encompassed 380 participants, equally divided between rural and urban areas. Urban residents showed higher digital literacy (70.53% daily internet usage vs. 46.32% in rural, p<0.001) and eHealth literacy (59.87% vs. 40.13%, p=0.002). Factors influencing eHealth literacy included education levels, comorbidity, occupation, demand for digital health technology, internet usage time, smartphone ownership, and computer usage (p<0.005).
Conclusions: This study revealed significant disparities in digital and eHealth literacy between rural and urban populations. Urban areas exhibit higher digital and eHealth literacy compared to rural regions.
Patient reported experience measures: an assessment of the out-patient pharmacy in a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Muneeza  , Yathindra Chitra
Published: November 2024

Background: Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREMs) are essential for assessing healthcare service quality, directly reflecting patient satisfaction. This study evaluates patient experiences in an out-patient pharmacy of a tertiary care teaching hospital to identify factors influencing pharmacy service satisfaction.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from August 30 to September 16, 2023, with 49 patients who used the out-patient pharmacy. Data was collected via a structured, close-ended questionnaire using a 3-point Likert scale. Analyses included frequency, percentage, mean, and standard deviation.
Results: The study revealed that 46% of patients rated medicine availability as "excellent," while 8% were dissatisfied. Service timeliness received a 40% "excellent" rating, yet 32% found the overall wait unsatisfactory. Patient satisfaction with staff knowledge and assistance was high, with 55% rating it "excellent." However, billing and crowd management needed improvement, with 30% and 22% of patients rating these areas as "poor," respectively. Overall, 40% of patients were highly satisfied, while 18% expressed dissatisfaction.
Conclusions: The findings highlight both strengths and areas for improvement in the out-patient pharmacy. While patients appreciated medicine availability and knowledgeable staff, service delays and billing issues were areas of concern. Regular feedback and targeted interventions are crucial to enhance pharmacy operations and patient satisfaction.
Prevalence and determinants of low birth weight in Rohilkhand region, Uttar Pradesh
Authors: Patra Aishwarya , Agrawal Vijender K. , Maheshwari Mukul
Published: November 2024

Background: Weight of a newborn during delivery is a critical determinant of his health and a key element in determining the infant's ability to survive, grow physically and mentally. Additionally, it is a sign of the mother’s well-being. The present study was done to study the prevalence of low birth weight , to describe the factors affecting  low birth weight and  to suggest remedial measures for prevention of low birth weight.
Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in a community health centre attached with Rajshree Medical Research Institute among 227 mothers for one year. Analysis was done for estimating prevalence of low birth weight and its association with socio-demographic features, maternal clinical characteristics and newborn characteristics. Suitable research analysis was done.
Results: 20.3% newborns delivered were low birth weight. Factors which were found to have significant association with low birth weight are maternal age (p<0.05), maternal education (p<0.05), work done during pregnancy (p<0.05), gestational length (p<0.001), iron and folic acid (IFA) prophylaxis (p<0.01) and sex of baby (p<0.01).
Conclusions: Our study indicates that maternal age, maternal education, gestational length, IFA prophylaxis, work done during pregnancy and sex of baby are significant determinants of low birth weight. These findings highlight the importance of maternal health and prenatal care interventions in reducing the incidence of low birth weight.
Perception and practice of household solid waste management practices in rural Mysuru district: a cross-sectional study
Authors: M. Rakesh , Ravali Annaram , Shruddha  , D. Sunil Kumar
Published: November 2024

Background: Effective household solid waste management (SWM) is vital for public health, environmental quality, and sustainable living. With rising global waste production, understanding current practices is essential for policy and system improvements. Objectives were to assess the practice and perception of household SWM among rural population
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Suttur, Mysuru. Using systematic random sampling 200 households were selected. Data was collected using a validated, semi-structured questionnaire, including socio-demographic profiles, knowledge, and waste management practices. Analysis was performed using SPSS version 26 and chi-square tests were used to identify significant associations (p<0.05).
Results: Participants aged 18-30 years constituted 48% of the sample, with a nearly balanced gender distribution (49.5% male, 50.5% female). Waste segregation was practiced by 70% of households. Daily waste disposal was reported by 58.5% of participants, primarily using corporation dustbins (72%). Significant associations were found between awareness scores and age (p<0.0001), education level (p<0.001), type of house (p<0.001), socio-economic status (p=0.007), and marital status (p=0.0001). Graduates demonstrated the highest levels of excellent knowledge (43.2%), while illiterates had a significant proportion of poor knowledge (50%).
Conclusions: The study highlights the need for improved waste management systems, enhanced public awareness, and stricter regulations to address current environmental and health risks. Future research should focus on evaluating intervention effectiveness and exploring innovative waste management solutions in rural areas
Ambulance is for life: a call for bridging the knowledge gap among the masses
Authors: Lakhiar Tarique Quadir , Shaikh Zeeshan Noor , Maqbool Umair , Iqbal Mazhar , Mangrio Lutaf Ali
Published: November 2024

Essential awareness among the masses about the ambulance usage is pertinent. Lack of knowledge and basic understanding for accessing the ambulance services is liable to reduce resources and cause delay in provision of appropriate treatment. Similarly, prompt management and timely intervention to any emergency provides considerable assistance to respond and address any sudden health uncertainty that arises from accidental health conditions and crises. However, knowledge and basic understanding for utilizing the emergency health services is crucial among masses. This provides the capability to the individual about recognizing the role of emergency response services and gives a sense of understanding about the appropriate usage of ambulance. Thus, in this context, there is a model called medical priority dispatch system (MPDS) a globally recognized method that helps in emergency medical services (EMS) to determine the intensity of the medical condition and accidents before dispatching the assistance. The following paper is aimed to inculcate the knowledge and address the misperceptions among the masses for attaining the facilitation of ambulance services which responds in accordance to MPDS model.
Occupational health challenges among faculty in medical colleges in India: A comprehensive review
Authors: Christian Donald
Published: November 2024

This systematic review explores the occupational health issues encountered by faculty members in medical colleges throughout India, focusing on both physical and psychological challenges. Faculty in these settings face distinct stressors stemming from the rigorous demands of academic and clinical responsibilities.

The review identifies several primary challenges, including work-related musculoskeletal disorders, exposure to infectious diseases, mental health issues, elevated stress levels, burnout, and the weight of administrative burdens. These findings underscore a critical need for the development and implementation of targeted occupational health policies and supportive systems tailored specifically for medical educators.

This review highlights the urgent requirement for further research aimed at devising effective intervention strategies that address the unique occupational health needs of faculty in academic medical institutions. Such research will be instrumental in fostering healthier work environments and enhancing the overall well-being of medical faculty, thereby ultimately improving educational outcomes in medical education.
A study to evaluate the effectiveness of multidisciplinary educational approach on knowledge regarding code blue protocol management among nurses working at hospital, Koppal District
Authors: Sumangala B R  , Kudari Ananda
Published: November 2024

Code Blue is a unique commonly code used to sound code group for waning or cardiac arrest clients in hospital. Code blue is usually used to instruct a patient demanding restoration or in necessity of rapid medical attention, most frequently as the consequence of a respiratory or cardiac halt. Each hospital as an amount of its policies, sets a strategy to recognize which unit deals staffs of code blue attention. It is paramount for every trained nurse to have a satisfactory knowledge concerning the code blue procedure or protocol to lessen the mortality ratio particularly in critical care units.

was to assess the multidisciplinary educational method on Code Blue protocol management amongst nurses employed at hospital.

In this study pre-experimental one group pre-test post-test design was used.

Total of 60 subjects were selected by using non-randomized convenient sampling technique.

Knowledge questionnaire regarding Code Blue protocol management was used to assess the knowledge of staff nurses.

: The data were collected and analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The study result demonstrates that the knowledge before intervention was, 72% (43) of the nurses were come under poor level of knowledge, 23% (14) were represent under average level of knowledge and the minimum 5% (03) were goes under good knowledge level. Whereas after teaching, 85% (51) of the nurses were had good knowledge level, 12% (07) were got an average level of knowledge and simply 3% (02) nurses had poor knowledge. In case of association between the selected sociodemographic variables such as age, gender, educational qualification, area of working in the hospital, cadre of nurse and Mean Pre-intervention knowledge found to be non-significant at 0.05 level. Whereas in another category, i.e. in experience in nursing service found to be significant at 0.05 level, (chi-square=11.05) (p=0.025).
Lived experience of male spouses of poly cystic ovarian syndrome diagnosed females: An exploratory study
Authors: Mathen Diya , D’almeida Joylene Diana , Fernandes Shannon Francesca , Biju Nalina
Published: November 2024

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous clinical entity leading to development of metabolic, endocrine, and reproductive disorder. Obesity lowers the chances of successful conception and even lowers the success rate of assisted reproduction technique cycles, and this is a major concern for young couples and females in their prime reproductive age. But there are also studies also which shows reduces quality of life and sexual satisfaction and life satisfaction in females with PCOD. Hence, we should also consider the other partner in couples diagnosed with PCOD. Thus, when looking into the family dynamics of PCOD diagnosed females, psychological wellbeing of their husband should also be equally studied as their emotions are highly influenced by their wife’s mental wellbeing. Even after biological treatment of PCOD, their psychological distress persists, and can may hinder their future quality of life. The objective of the study was to explore the experience of male spouse of clinically PCOS diagnosed females. The study was a phenomenological qualitative research design, with researcher-developed guiding questions to help direct interviews. The data was collected using purposive sampling from hospitals based on the inclusion criteria of the study. 6 participants were finally selected based on these criteria and saturation point was attained for the study by then. The findings of the study was 3 major themes were discovered, which were Awareness about PCOS, perception of husbands on PCOS and perception of women. 9 subthemes were also discovered under these themes. Implications of the study was more awareness should be given to both male and female population about the disorder and also encouraging men to talk more about their mental health.
Cyclopia: A rare case of congenital anomaly associated with holoprosencephaly
Authors: Ambra Nalmiades
Published: November 2024

Cyclopia is a rare congenital disorder characterized by the fusion of the eyes, typically as part of holoprosencephaly, resulting from a failure of the forebrain to divide during fetal development. Occurring in approximately 1 in 13,000 to 20,000 births, many cases go undetected due to early miscarriages. The condition is associated with significant facial deformities, including an absent or severely underdeveloped nose and malformed ears. This case report details a 31-year-old woman who presented at 27 weeks of gestation with abdominal pain and bleeding. Ultrasound revealed a single-lobed brain, hypotelorism, and cyclopia in the fetus. A vaginal delivery was planned, resulting in the birth of an 800-gram baby boy with severe facial anomalies who died shortly after birth. Holoprosencephaly encompasses varying degrees of brain malformation, with cyclopia being the most severe form. The absence of effective treatments necessitates early diagnosis and potential legal abortion to prevent suffering. Risk factors include maternal dietary choices and genetic mutations, particularly in the Sonic Hedgehog (SHH) gene. Awareness and education regarding these risks are crucial for prospective parents, as early detection through ultrasound can guide management strategies and reduce harm to both the newborn and the mother.
A rare case of foreign body (Metal) in uterine cavity
Authors: Ahmed Zuha , Ahmed Ifrah , Nigar Asma , Saxena Rashmi
Published: November 2024

Uterus is a hollow, muscular organ present in the female pelvis. Rare occurrence of foreign body in the uterus can be seen in any age group. It is usually presented as bleeding per vaginum, foul-smelling vaginal discharge or pain in the supra-pubic region. It can lead to severe complications.

This is a case report of a patient who came to Career Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow with primary infertility. She was diagnosed to have foreign body in uterus. This foreign body metal nail was confirmed on Ultrasonography followed by X-Ray, after 5 years of being an undiagnosed case.

Rare case of foreign body in uterus was seen which was removed by hysteroscopy and cervical incision. 

This was a rare case of foreign body metal nail in uterus which was inserted by some local doctor/quack for treatment of infertility. This shows us the importance of visiting specialized doctors for treatment.
Monitoramento telefônico de pacientes atendidos na unidade de Emergência por tentativa de suicídio: estratégia de prevenção
Authors: Baena Ferreira Camila Louise , Bohrer Zanetello Luciana
Published: November 2024

A inserção do psicólogo na Emergência Adulto do Hospital Universitário da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (HU/UFSC) iniciou em 2009, e entre suas principais demandas destacam-se as tentativas de suicídio. O psicólogo, diante desta demanda, realiza intervenções para oferecer apoio emocional, avaliar o risco do comportamento suicida, orientar a rede de apoio e encaminhar a outros serviços de saúde conforme as diferentes necessidades. Além do atendimento na unidade de Emergência, a equipe de psicologia realiza monitoramento telefônico com pacientes e/ou rede de apoio após a alta hospitalar por tentativa de suicídio. O artigo apresenta um estudo qualitativo descritivo, por meio de relato de experiência de psicólogas da unidade de Emergência Adulto do HU/UFSC - sob a gestão da Empresa Brasileira de Serviços Hospitalares (EBSERH) - acerca do monitoramento telefônico de pacientes e/ou rede de apoio após alta hospitalar devido tentativa de suicídio. O objetivo geral do monitoramento é verificar a condição emocional do paciente e adesão ao acompanhamento em saúde mental após alta hospitalar da unidade de Emergência do HU/UFSC devido tentativa de suicídio. Através dos relatos, de alguns pacientes, observa-se que a intervenção foi efetiva ao promover o interesse em buscar acompanhamento em saúde mental após a alta hospitalar. Possibilitou também, ampliar vínculo entre psicólogas da unidade de Emergência e pacientes, visto que estes acionam as profissionais através de contatos telefônicos quando necessário após a alta hospitalar.
Saccharomyces cerevisiae secretion of recombinant bacteriophage endolysin LysKB317 inhibits Limosilactobacillus fermentum in corn mash fermentation
Authors: Lu Shao-Yeh , Patel Maulik H. , Hector Ronald E. , Bowman Michael J. , Skory Christopher D.
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the secretion of endolysin LysKB317 integrated into the HO locus of Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain NRRL Y-2034 to enable the yeast to simultaneously perform ethanol fermentation and control bacterial contaminants frequently present in ethanol refineries. The cell wall hydrolase gene was expressed using TEF1 and NAT5 promoter and terminator sequences with α-MF secretion signal and an N-terminus poly-histidine tag. LysKB317 was detectable by western blot analysis, which showed a molecular weight slightly larger than the 33 kDa native protein, presumably due to residual amino acids from the α-MF secretion signal peptide or S. cerevisiae glycosylation. Secreted LysKB317 was confirmed to be active using turbidity reduction and cell viability assay. Contaminated corn mash fermentations with yeast secreting LysKB317 demonstrated a significant reduction in bacterial contamination by at least 2-log compared to the contamination controls without LysKB317 expression. Moreover, LysKB317 expression led to a 73% decrease in acetic acid concentration and a 67% decrease in lactic acid levels. Contaminated fermentations with yeast expressing LysKB317 also exhibited a 16% improvement in ethanol production over the contamination controls without LysKB317, with no significant difference observed when compared to yeast-only controls during a 72-h corn mash fermentation. These findings suggest that a yeast endolysin secretion platform holds promise for mitigating bacterial contamination in biorefineries and potentially reducing reliance on antibiotics usage.
Impact of Education (Level of Knowledge) on the Prevalence of Obesity in Different Urban Environments
Authors: Arbel Yuval , Arbel Yifat , Kerner Amichai , Kerner Miryam
Published: November 2024

We investigate the impact of high-rise buildings on the prevalence of obesity in the US during 2011-2020 stratified by educated vs. non-educated populations. We use a quadratic specification that accounts for non-monotonic variation. Findings demonstrate that concentration of above 147 skyscrapers in a state is detrimental with regards to the projected prevalence of obesity. The main public policy repercussions of our study are: 1) the promotion of education for medical literacy due to the fact that for each number of skyscrapers the prevalence of obesity is lower among educated populations. 2) widening pavements, pathways and open spaces following urban development.
Do hotel facilities matter for the customer? Analyzing the impact of risk perception toward guest satisfaction mediated by accommodation attributes in the hospitality industry
Authors: Maulana Noveri
Published: November 2024

This study aims to analyze the relationship between risk perception variables and guest satisfaction mediated by hotel attributes in the hospitality industry in Indonesia. Previous studies argued that guest preference toward hotel attributes can mediate the impact of risk perception toward guest satisfaction when staying at an accommodation. However, some other findings contrast this argument. This study aims to contribute to these theoretical debates among the scholars. As a quantitative study, data were collected through a field survey of 568 foreign and domestic tourists in major tourist destinations in Indonesia. The SEM-PLS with bootstrapping analysis for mediation effect was applied in the study. The result reveals that financial risk does not directly influence guest satisfaction but significantly affects hotel attribute preferences. Health risk similarly impacts hotel attribute preferences positively without directly affecting guest satisfaction. Conversely, psychosocial risk exhibits a strong negative effect on guest satisfaction and hotel attributes. The positive relationship between hotel attributes and guest satisfaction reaffirms the critical role of service quality and physical attributes in driver satisfaction. Mediation analysis indicates that hotel attributes significantly mediate the effects of risk factors on guest satisfaction. The study concludes that enhancing hotel attributes, addressing psychosocial concerns, and investing in health-related features are pivotal strategies for hotel management to boost guest satisfaction, particularly during periods of heightened financial and health risks. These findings offer valuable insights for hotel managers to navigate challenging times and maintain high levels of guest satisfaction, fostering loyalty and positive word-of-mouth among the tourists.
Factors determining the entrepreneurship intention of university students in South Africa
Authors: Makhitha Khathutshelo Mercy
Published: November 2024

The purpose of this study is to determine the factors influencing the entrepreneurship intention of students at a distance learning institution in South Africa. An online survey was conducted among students registered at a distance learning institution, and the results confirmed that factors affecting entrepreneurship intention are entrepreneurship education and self-efficacy. Self-efficacy has a stronger effect on entrepreneurship intention than entrepreneurship education. Other factors, namely work readiness, career education and entrepreneurship orientation, did not display such a relationship with entrepreneurship intention, which implies that they do not affect students’ entrepreneurship intention. Universities must make it compulsory for students to study entrepreneurship education by making it a focus of their curriculum design. They must find a way to motivate students to take up entrepreneurship as a career.
Manipulative interactive didactics with puzzles: An effective solution for overcoming junior high school students' learning obstacles to quadrilateral materials
Authors: Tampa Alimuddin , Ja’faruddin  , Firdaus Andi Mulawakkan
Published: November 2024

The study of learning obstacles is essential to develop students' competencies and improve the quality of learning that is responsive, inclusive, and relevant in the 21st century. The purpose of this study is to identify learning obstacles related to misconceptions regarding quadrilateral material and students' mathematical creativity, and to find effective empirical didactic designs to overcome these learning obstacles. The research methodology used is didactic design research (DDR), which consists of four frameworks: Initial data collection, prospective analysis, metapedidactic analysis, and retrospective analysis. These stages are cyclical. The study involved 172 junior high school students and six model teachers. Data was collected using the quadrilateral writing creativity test, interviews, documents, and field notes. Data analysis was conducted simultaneously using quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study produced empirical didactic designs, namely manipulative interactive didactics with puzzles, which are equipped with a guide for teachers to manage learning. This empirical didactic design includes seven frameworks that have been shown to be effective in overcoming didactic and epistemological barriers—scaffolding, questioning skills, brainstorming, learning opportunities, conceptual representation of mathematical creativity, misconceptions, and concept representation. Teachers can implement or adapt this empirical instructional design for use in geometry subtopics or other mathematics materials. For instance, they can use it for subtopics such as flat shapes with the same area, spaces with the same volume, or spaces with the same surface area.
Organisational justice and employees’ commitment of selected Nigerian banking sector
Authors: Adenike Adeniji Anthonia , Misturat Olanrewaju Kofoworola , Oluwafunmilayo Onayemi Oluwakemi , Ejovwokeoghene Ogbari Mercy , Boluwatife Folorunso, Flourish
Published: November 2024

Nigerian banking institutions in the 21st century face significant workplace challenges, including employee commitment, managerial decision-making issues, perceptions of inequality, unfair treatment and a lack of stability and reliability due to competitive forces. This study investigates the effect of organisational justice variables on employee commitment in a specific sector. A descriptive research approach was used with 361 questionnaires distributed but only 332 returned resulting in a 91.97% return rate. This study used Statistical Packages for the Social Sciences (SPSS) for descriptive statistics and the Structural Equation Model (SEM-PLS) for inferential statistics to evaluate the generated hypothesis. This study reveals that employees' perception of distributive justice significantly influences their commitment; procedural justice affects their normative commitment and interactional justice influences their continuance commitment. It emphasises the importance of understanding the relationship between organisational justice and employee commitment to guide stakeholders in creating fair and positive work environments promoting employee well-being and enhancing organisational outcomes.
Think and act like owners in family firms: Does managerial level matter?
Authors: Rochimat Dedy , Irawan Agustinus Purna , Suhartanto Eko
Published: November 2024

Conventional thought believes that employees' concern for the firm has never been as great as that of its owners. Making non-owning employees think and act like owners leading to the best performance at work is an eternal challenge for many family firms. We investigate how employees’ sense of belonging attitude, subjective norms and perceived behavior control (PBC) affect their intention and behavior to provide the best performance at work. We also test whether the managerial level (supervisor and above vs. staff and operators) moderates these relationships. Using a moderated mediation model applied to a sample of 409 employees from Indonesian family firms, we find that employees’ sense of belonging, subjective norms and perceived behavioral control (PBC) are positively related to their intention to provide the best performance at work. However, the relationship pattern differs between the two employee groups, namely managerial and non-managerial employees.  For managerial employees (supervisory and above), their PBC has no relationship to their intention or behavior. In contrast, their attitude and subjective norms have a positive relationship with their behavior through their intention. For non-managerial employees (staff and operators), the relationship between subjective norms and behavior is fully mediated by intention. In contrast, the relationship between attitude and behavior and between PBC and behavior is partially mediated by intention. We also find that the effect of attitude on intention is stronger for managerial employees but the effect of subjective norms and PBC is stronger for non-managerial employees.
Local ecological culture and the quest for a meaningful life
Authors: Ssozi Leonard
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the influence of Local Ecological Culture (LEC) on the pursuit of a meaningful life among communities residing adjacent to Mabira Forest in Uganda. Employing a mixed-method approach, the research explores the interplay between these communities and their environment, focusing on whether forest conservation practices are driven by immediate utilitarian benefits (shallow happiness) or by deeper ecological values (deep happiness). The study introduces key concepts such as "deep happiness" and Ubuntu to analyze how these communities conceptualize a meaningful life in relation to their ecological context. A principal components analysis (PCA) of the field data reveals three core dimensions of LEC: functional relationships with nature, environmental stewardship, and the notion of an embedded life. The findings indicate that both men and women, across various age groups, uphold strong commitments to ecological sustainability and community well-being, although distinct patterns of engagement emerge according to gender and age. This research highlights the pivotal role of local cultural practices in supporting environmental conservation and emphasizes the potential for community-based approaches to sustainability. By integrating LEC with broader conservation frameworks and sustainable livelihood strategies, the study contributes to a deeper understanding of how cultural values can inform environmental management in forest-dependent communities. The results offer critical insights for developing conservation policies that incorporate local ecological knowledge, promoting both environmental resilience and socio-economic sustainability.
Factors Affecting the Avoidance of Online Advertising on Facebook of Gen Z in Hanoi
Authors: Toan Dong Van , Anh Nguyen Thi Mai
Published: November 2024

Online media has become a primary platform for brands to reach consumers, but the proliferation of advertisements has led to a surge in ad avoidance behaviors, especially among Generation Z. This study examines the factors influencing Generation Z's ad avoidance behavior on Facebook. Quantitative data from 180 Hanoi-based Gen Z respondents were collected and analyzed using SPSS, while qualitative preliminary research provided additional insights. The findings indicate that perceived goal impediment (PGI), privacy concerns (PC), negative experiences (NE), ad skepticism (AS), and ad overload (AO) significantly contribute to ad avoidance. These results offer valuable implications for online advertisers to improve the effectiveness of their campaigns and reduce ad avoidance among Gen Z consumers.
Reducing Carbon Footprint in Cooking: A Study on Energy Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Authors: Kamdem Yves Stéphane
Published: November 2024

The study investigates the potential reduction in carbon emissions during cooking by using air-based insulators and automated flame reduction systems. The primary focus is on minimizing heat losses to the environment and boiling inefficiencies. The study includes simulations data to quantify energy savings and equivalent carbon footprint reduction, both at the household and community levels. The findings support the development of a prototype device aimed at improving cooking efficiency. Design requirements, potential risks, failure modes, and practical implications are discussed. The paper provides a comprehensive analysis, supported by simulations, explanatory drawings, and graphs.