bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From the Middle East to America: Examining Acculturative Factors of Adolescent Immigration
Authors: Kharal Maariyah , Abdellatif Jennah
Published: July 2024

Global immigration necessitates acculturation which is the process of adapting to cultural norms while maintaining aspects of origin-country culture. Acculturation is the process through which individuals adapt to the culture, norms, and belief systems of their host country (Sayegh & Lasry, 1993; Yeh et al., 2008). Acculturation is difficult for adolescents because they are undergoing identity formation throughout immigration. For Middle Eastern individuals in particular, cultural differences, threat of harmful stereotyping, and socioeconomic difficulties further complicate this process. This study examined factors that relate to acculturation for Middle Eastern immigrants who immigrated during adolescence. Eight participants were interviewed for this study and interview transcriptions were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results found three overarching themes related to community, personal identity, and American infrastructure. Further research should be conducted to explore each of these constructs in detail to ensure Middle Eastern adolescent immigrants can receive acculturative support and to reduce the stigma held by the American public around Middle Eastern individuals.
La Villa de Diomède à Pompéi. Implantation et transformations architecturales
Authors: Dessales Hélène , Cavero Julien , Dubouloz Julien , Pimpaud Alban-Brice
Published: July 2024

Édifiée hors-les-murs, près de la porte d’Herculanum, la Villa de Diomède, est installée sur une paléo-falaise qui surplombe le golfe de Naples, à une distance d’environ un km de la ligne de côte ancienne. La villa, un des tous premiers bâtiments fouillés à Pompéi, entre 1771 et 1775, est alors définie comme « villa pseudo-urbana ». L’analyse de ses modalités d’implantation met en évidence son statut ambivalent : villa de par sa situation suburbaine, mais en réalité domus de par ses fonctions et sa proximité avec l’agglomération. Ses transformations architecturales, réparties en cinq phases principales, du IIe siècle av. J.-C. à 79, révèlent une extension progressive du bâtiment. Différents éléments reproduisent le modèle d’une villa maritima : la présence de deux tours belvédères, l’articulation sur plusieurs niveaux rythmés de terrasses et portiques et un système de vues en écho, de la villa sur la mer et de la mer sur la villa.
Il Parco imperiale di Capri
Authors: Marzocchella Amodio , Ciardiello Rosaria
Published: July 2024

L'obiettivo di questo lavoro è quello di esaminare il rapporto tra Augusto e Capri e di proporre nuove possibili motivazioni politiche alla base della riqualificazione architettonica e funzionale del paesaggio naturale, come la creazione sull'isola di un "Palazzo d'Estate" o di un "Parco Imperiale", dove la distribuzione e la destinazione degli edifici sono in armonia con la peculiare specificità marittima dell'ambiente. In questa prospettiva vengono illustrate le principali testimonianze archeologiche dei primi decenni dell'Impero come Villa Iovis, Palazzo a mare, Gasto, Camerelle, Damecuta e Gradola.
Tourism and the Fight Against Poverty: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Dehoorne Olivier
Published: July 2024

Develop tourism as a tool in the fight against poverty requires first to agree on the meaning of the word poverty and to clarify the political intentions of the project. Reflection on the reduction of poverty through tourism can be synthetised in three steps: first, the beneficial effects of tourist revenues flows in host societies, then the collateral damage resulting from tourism and, finally, to define the conditions necessary to integrate positively tourism project in the host territories. In the end, it is indispensable to develop a proactive policy, because the poorest will not benefit from famous income flow. Taking into account complex and contradictory impact of international tourism (including inflation, revenue leakage, accelerated destructuring of local societies), it is necessary to include it in a sustained and coherent territorial project by local communities to identify real benefits.
Classifications et marquage ethniques du territoire par l’État chinois impérial et moderne. La création du district autonome des Sui en Chine du Sud-Ouest
Authors: David Béatrice
Published: July 2024

Au début des années 1950, la politique des nationalités de la République populaire de Chine reconnut aux Sui, une minorité taïphone (groupe kam-sui de la branche kadai) dans le sud du Guizhou, le statut de nationalité sous le nom chinois « shui » et leur attribua un territoire administratif autonome à leur nom à rang de district. L’étude proposée ici apporte l’exemple d’une production territoriale de l’État chinois saisie à une échelle locale où les questions d’identification ethnique et d’autonomie régionale présentent leurs propres configurations. Sont d’abord examinées les procédures de classification de l’État impérial des Qing qui ont tracé, à la fin du xviie siècle, les premiers contours officiels d’un territoire sui en les dissociant des autres populations « barbares » (miao) de la région. Sont ensuite soulignés l’influence des classifications produites par l’ethnologie chinoise de la période républicaine dans la future reconnaissance des Sui comme nationalité ainsi que le rôle fondateur du lettré sui Pan Yizhi, d’ethnicité sui, à qui fut brièvement confiée la vice-présidence du district autonome sui en 1957. La re-publication récente de son œuvre, malmenée durant la Révolution culturelle, nous permet notamment de retracer les étapes du processus de sa création. En conclusion sera évoquée brièvement l’instrumentalisation de cette période fondatrice à des fins contemporaines de développement local.
Gastronomy for Sustainable Tourism Destination Marketing
Authors: Baysal Derya Baykal , Sanalan Bilici Nilgün
Published: July 2024

Gastronomy plays a significant role in sustainable tourism destination marketing. It's not just about food; it's about the entire experience that connects tourists with the local culture, traditions, and environment. Gastronomy in tourism helps in building a unique brand for a destination, stimulating local entrepreneurship, and promoting sustainable practices. Well-executed gastronomic tourism can enhance the quality of life for locals, preserve cultural heritage, and contribute to sustainable development. The marketing of sustainable gastronomic tourism destinations requires a comprehensive approach that integrates local resources, traditional expertise, sustainability communication, and the use of innovative technologies. By leveraging these elements, destinations can effectively promote sustainable gastronomic experiences and contribute to the preservation of local cultures and ecosystems. Gastronomy as a tool for branding destinations is about leveraging unique local cuisines and culinary traditions to create a distinctive image for a tourist destination.
Engaging Audiences
Authors: Singha Surjit
Published: July 2024

This chapter investigates the dynamic realm of sustainable branding on social media, specifically focusing on the convergence of corporate communication, consumer engagement, and environmental accountability. By utilizing conceptual frameworks derived from marketing, communication, and sustainability studies, this study assesses the efficacy of sustainability communication on social media platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Using case studies and empirical research, it discerns optimal strategies for brands to convey their sustainability endeavours effectively, surmount consumer doubt, and instigate constructive transformations. The study results provide practitioners with valuable insights into how social media influences consumer perceptions of sustainable brands, thereby enhancing the collective comprehension of this phenomenon.
Crafting Authentic Narratives for Sustainable Branding
Authors: Tariq Muhammad Usman
Published: July 2024

In an era characterized by heightened consumer awareness and demand for ethical practices, authenticity emerges as the cornerstone of successful branding endeavors. This chapter provides insights into defining authenticity within the realm of sustainable branding, emphasizing its pivotal role in establishing trust and credibility with the target audience. It delineates fundamental principles such as integrity, transparency, and consistency that underpin authentic storytelling practices. Drawing upon real-life case studies, the segment illustrates how brands have effectively leveraged authentic narratives to engage consumers and bolster their sustainability ethos, thereby enhancing brand perception and loyalty. Furthermore, it addresses common challenges faced by brands in maintaining narrative authenticity and offers practical guidelines for implementation. By showcasing the transformative potential of authentic storytelling, the segment advocates for brands to embrace it as a potent tool for differentiation and impact in the realm of sustainable branding.
Future Trends and Challenges
Authors: N. M. Rohith , K. Dinesh Reddy , Chowdhury Vishal
Published: July 2024

The use of brand storytelling in advertising has become more and more common in recent years. It involves using storytelling to create an emotional connection between a company and its clients in order to boost client loyalty and enhance brand perception. The growth of social media and digital marketing has also made it easier for firms to tell their stories and interact more personally with their target customers. The chapter delves into the dynamic landscape of sustainable branding, exploring emerging trends and challenges that are poised to shape the future of purposeful storytelling. As we stand at the intersection of environmental consciousness, technological innovation, and evolving consumer expectations, this chapter navigates through key themes that will define the trajectory of sustainable branding narratives. A brand's image can become more meaningful through sustainability, strengthening emotional connections, and creating a unique selling point. It improves competitive advantage, popularity, and long-term financial health by lowering a variety of potential hazards.
Exploring the Synergy of Soil-Animal Interactions
Authors: Makwana Vishal M. , Thakkar Karan , Dodia Pravinsang P.
Published: July 2024

The chapter explores the intricate interactions between soil, plants, and animals, highlighting the essential role of animal biodiversity in ecosystem health. It discusses the impacts of climate change on soil-dwelling animals, emphasizing underestimated effects through case studies. Synergistic mechanisms, such as mutualistic relationships, are examined for their contribution to ecosystem resilience. Preservation strategies, challenges, and future directions in biodiversity conservation are outlined, providing insights for sustainable soil ecosystem management. Through interdisciplinary inquiry, the chapter offers a comprehensive blueprint for biodiversity preservation, fostering resilience in soil ecosystems.
Automated Detection of Plant Diseases and Chlorophyl With Image Processing Using Mobile Application
Authors: Y. Dharshan , D. Devasena , B. Sharmila , K. S. Nandhanaa
Published: July 2024

Green plants are capable of producing their own sustenance. They accomplish this through a process known as photosynthesis, which makes use of a chlorophyll-based green pigment. A pigment is a chemical that has a specific color and, depending on that color, may absorb light at various wavelengths. The chlorophyll of the leaf may be predicted from leaf color, which has the potential to be an excellent indicator of plant health. Chlorophyll a (Chl-a) and Chlorophyll b are the two main types of chlorophyll found in the photosystems of green plants (Chl-b). Each kind has a unique function as well as advantages and a unique chemical composition. So, it is crucial to anticipate the chlorophyll of the takes off as it provides valuable information regarding plant health and edit management. In the proposed work, a non-destructive image processing technique is employed to estimate the chlorophyll content of tomato plants using images of the leaves. The chlorophyll content of the acquired image is predicted using a deep learning (DL) algorithm. Using the camera of an Android smartphone, samples of tomato plant leaves were collected from the field, and the color vegetation indices for all three RGB channels were then abstracted. The Chlorophyll detector, which is aimed at both small- and large-scale farms, has finally been built. For easy deployment, the mobile app combines an image from a smartphone camera with cloud-hosted software.
Promoting Mental Health Education Through Sunshine Sports Integration in the Context of New Curriculum Reform
Authors: Wang Shuo
Published: July 2024

This paper attempts to test and analyze students' mental health status through the reform of physical education curriculum setting mode, reveal the changes and characteristics of individual mental health status, and then promote reasonable and effective physical education reform and the integration of psychological education. Furthermore, this article investigates people's mental health using the Apriori algorithm and the BP algorithm, and accurately presents the current condition using data graphs and other approaches, and its accuracy has grown by 20.32%. It also concludes that we should pursue the aims of social adaption and mental health, as well as support improved implementation of the new physical education curriculum. Physical education instruction must be engaging, but it cannot be done in isolation from sports and practice. As part of the new curriculum reform, physical education should be linked with psychological education.
Norm Augmented Reinforcement Learning Agents With Synthesized Normative Rules
Authors: Kadir Mohd Rashdan Abdul , Selamat Ali , Krejcar Ondrej
Published: July 2024

The dynamic deontic (DD) is a norm synthesis framework that extracts normative rules from reinforcement learning (RL), however it was not designed to be applied in agent coordination. This study proposes a norm augmented reinforcement learning framework (NARLF) that extends said model to include a norm deliberation mechanism for learned norms re-imputation for norm biased decision-making RL agents. This study aims to test the effects of synthesized norms applied on-line and off-line on agent learning performance. The framework consists of the DD framework extended with a pre-processing and deliberation component to allow re-imputation of normative rules. A deliberation model, the Norm Augmented Q-Table (NAugQT), is proposed to map normative rules into RL agents via q-values weight updates. Results show that the framework is able to map and improve RL agent's performance but only when synthesized off-line edited absolute norm salience value norms are used. This shows limitations when unstable salience norms are applied. Improvement in norm extraction and pre-processing are required.
Investigating the Moderating Effects of Context-Aware Recommendations on the Relationship Between Knowledge Search and Decision Quality
Authors: Liu Chang , Jin Hong , Wang Jianbo
Published: July 2024

The paper applied a quantitative method to the impact of context-aware recommendations on decision quality and used partial least squares (PLS) to test the hypotheses of the study. The paper examines how context-aware recommendations affect the knowledge integration and decision-making, offering a valuable contribution to the existing body of knowledge and a framework for understanding knowledge management within a multi-dimensional setting when combined with context-aware technology. This paper provides designers of context-aware recommender systems with ideas to broaden the scope of services and refine learning applications.
L'unità e la dignità della persona nell'antropologia sessuale cristiana
Authors: Fuček Ivan
Published: July 2024

Dei quattro principali pilastri dell'antropologia cnstlana che fanno da supporto a tutta la questione sulla sessualità umana - l'unità e la dignità della persona, la dignità del corpo umano e dell'atto coniugale - in questo approccio prendiamo in considerazione soltanto i primi due.
Psychological Distress among Care Recipients Attending Youth Mental Health Promotion Centers across Karnataka, India
Authors: Raghuvir Sanchayana , Arelingaiah Mutharaju , Loganathan Santosh , Ramamurthy Sathya Velu , Naik Vani , Banandur Pradeep S.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Yuva Spandana (YS) is a unique community-based youth mental health promotion program implemented across Karnataka.

Objective:

We assessed factors affecting PD among the population served by YS between January 1, 2017, and December 31, 2021.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was done utilizing the visit forms of 10,340 YS’s care recipients. A conceptual framework was developed, and all hypothesized variables within this framework were considered exposures. All exposure variables significant at P < 0.10 in univariate analysis were included in multivariable analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed by including each of the significant potential exposure variables from univariate analysis using a forward-stepping process.

Results:

Care recipients with health and lifestyle issues were at almost two times increased risk for PD (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =1.74 and 95% confidence interval [CI] - 1.52–2.00), and those with self-development issues were almost 2.5 times more likely to have PD (AOR = 2.44 and 95% CI - 2.12–2.79). Those who reported emotional statuses of feeling worried, lost, incapable, lonely, and distrusting were at 21.4, 3.5, 26.3, 37.9, and 4.7 times higher odds of having PD, respectively.

Conclusions:

Isolating the risk factors associated with PD will help tailor the mental health promotion provided by YS to at-risk groups.
Feasibility and Efficacy of Telephone Based Follow-up in Patients with Headache - A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Ray Sucharita , Tiwari Sulabh , Chakravarty Kamalesh , Mehta Sahil , Baishya Jitupam , Lal Vivek
Published: July 2024

Background:

Chronic headache greatly affects the quality of life and also constitutes a significant burden on the health system.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of telephone-based follow-up in a cohort of headache patients in India.

Materials and Methods:

This was a longitudinal cohort study of patients with episodic headache with one physical visit in the neurology outpatient services in the last year. Two neurologists conducted the telephone follow up (TFU) of included patients 12 weeks apart. We evaluated the following: (1) objective characterization of headache, (2) coexistent depression and anxiety, (3) patient satisfaction, (4) treatment adherence, and (5) changes in medications.

Results:

A total of 214 out of 274 eligible patients were included in the cohort. The mean age was 31.74 ± 7.77 years (18–45), and 164 (77%) were females. Migraine without aura was the most common diagnosis in 159 (74%). The mean disease duration was 78.01 ± 70.15 months (8–360). Concurrent depression and anxiety were noted in 87 (40.6%) and 45 (21%) of the patients, respectively. There was a significant improvement in the headache frequency (23.82 vs. 1.06, P < 0.001), severity (7.21 vs. 2.62, P = 0.032), and Headache Impact 6-item score (58.12 vs. 38.01, P = 0.014) at baseline and second follow-up. The satisfaction level to TFU in the first and second interviews was 94.4% and 97.2%, respectively.

Conclusion:

Telephone-based follow-up is a feasible alternative for repeat outpatient consultation of headache patients.
Assessment of Body Frame Size by Elbow Breadth and Frame Index and Its Relation to Body Composition Parameters among Tribal Preschool Children in West Bengal, India
Authors: Mahapatra Biswajit , Bose Kaushik
Published: July 2024

In children, body frame size estimation is used to interpret body mass and evaluate growth patterns. The present study aims to assess the body frame size by elbow breadth and frame index and its relation to body composition parameters among tribal preschool children (1–5 years of age). In the present study, 848 preschool children (430 boys and 418 girls) were included. The mean elbow breadth showed an increasing trend with increasing age, but inverse results were observed in the case of frame index. Age-wise, statistically significant sex differences were found in mean elbow breadth and frame index (except for 2 years of age). Boys show higher mean elbow breadth and frame index in all age groups, and significant sex differences were found. Elbow breadth and frame index had the strongest significant positive correlations with fat free mass (FFM) (r = 0.590, P < 0.01) and FFM index (r = 0.539, P < 0.01), respectively.
Noncommunicable Diseases and Gender Gap in Out-of-pocket Spending on Inpatient Health Care: An Investigation of Indian Elderly
Authors: Chatterjee Chandrima , Biswas Ashish Kumar
Published: July 2024

The present study intends to examine whether there exists any gender gap in out-of-pocket spending on hospitalization between elderly men and elderly women. Data were drawn from the NSS 75th Round Health Care Survey (2017–2018) consisting of a total number of 45,299 elderly. Bivariate analysis and t-test were used to examine the disease burden and gender gap in health spending. The burden of noncommunicable diseases such as bone disease and anemia is considerably higher among elderly women than elderly men. There is a significant, positive gender gap in inpatient health spending, especially in the rural area across various diseases. Lower level of awareness, male dominance in health-related decision-making, and financial dependence are some possible factors for the gender gap. Generating awareness among households and particularly among women regarding health-care system, chronic diseases, and sources of health financing along with formulating disease-specific policy may reduce the gender gap in health spending.
Intestinal Parasitosis among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Sikkim, a Northeastern State of India
Authors: Ojha Kartikeya , Deokota Shraddha , Dolma Karma Gurmey
Published: July 2024

The research paper explores the burden and associated factors of intestinal parasitic infections among pregnant women in Sikkim, India, categorized as neglected tropical diseases affecting 1.5 billion globally, with higher rates in tropical regions. These infections pose significant health risks, causing anemia, poor maternal-perinatal health, and perpetuating generational undernutrition and recurrent infections. A cross-sectional study of 100 pregnant women in Sikkim aimed to determine the burden of intestinal parasitosis and associated sociodemographic factors. It reported a lower prevalence compared to similar studies, with Giardia Lamblia as the dominant parasite. The study found a significant link between intestinal parasitosis and anemia. In conclusion, the paper recommends routine screening and deworming for pregnant women with low hemoglobin levels, emphasizing health education and awareness about intestinal parasitosis during pregnancy, especially in resource-limited settings. Adherence to India’s National Guidelines for Deworming during pregnancy is crucial.
Awareness Regarding POCSO Act: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Kaur Ramandeep , Sharma Richa , Sharma Deepak , Kaur Sarbjeet , Khan Shaved , Pahwa Simran , Sharma Sonia , Jaswal Sukhleen Singh
Published: July 2024

Background:

Child sexual abuse occurs in a variety of settings and the POCSO Act, 2012 came into force with effect from November 14, 2012.

Objectives:

A community-based cross-sectional study to assess the knowledge regarding the POCSO Act among adults in the rural community of Chandigarh was carried out in full compliance with ethical standards provided by the institutional research and ethical committee.

Materials and Methods:

A nonprobability sampling technique was used to select 190 subjects from Sector 56, Palsora, Chandigarh.

Results:

This study found that 55.8% have an adequate level of knowledge and 44.2% have an inadequate level of knowledge.

Conclusions:

The variables heard or seen by a victim of child abuse have only significant associations with the level of knowledge.
Oxygen Scarcity and COVID-19: Lessons Learned During the May–June 2021 Peak, Karnataka, India
Authors: Bhat Prashanth , Raju Mohan Kumar , Anand Veenita , Umakanth Shashikiran , Ravikumar K.
Published: July 2024

Oxygen is a most essential medical gas. This report shows the observations during the second wave of oxygen management in Karnataka, India, where there was an unprecedented rise in COVID-19 cases during May–June 2021. The state was allocated 731 metric tons against the actual requirement 1200 (63%). While there were several bottlenecks in the production, filling, transportation, and refilling, there were issues with supply-chain management, which led to the death of 24 patients on life-support in a district. The pandemic showed fragility in existing supply chain management and warrants further streamlining to address future crises.
Prevalence and Association of Digital Eye Strain with the Quality of Sleep and Feeling of Loneliness among Female College Students in Northern India
Authors: Rana Minakshi , Gupta Parul Chawla , Grover Sandeep , Furr Allen , Bhargava Nisha
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Because of COVID’s impact on social behavior, students have become more reliant on computer-facilitated communication to continue their studies and interact with friends. While it is known that the association between screen exposure and psychological well-being is both harmful and stronger among adolescents than younger children, what is less studied are the causal factors that may mediate the relationship.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to analyze the relationship between screen exposure and two psychological outcomes, sleep quality and loneliness, using digital eye strain as a mediating factor. Eye strain is expected to have a direct and harmful influence on psychological well-being.

Materials and Methods:

A structured and validated questionnaire was transcribed and administered online. A nonrepresentative sample of 497 female college students in a North Indian city participated in the study. Digital eye strain, quality of sleep, and feeling of loneliness scores were assessed using latent class analysis.

Results:

The selected latent model suggested that Class 2 had a high percentage of students with network issues, the problem with space and noise, and various financial hardships, which had almost doubled the rate of loneliness (53.28%) and sleep–wake difficulties (75.41%) among the students affected with computer vision syndrome (89.75%).

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need to examine the implications of digital exposure across gender and age to prevent future complications. Further, awareness for improving holistic well-being in the digital era should be promoted through various platforms.
A Multicomponent Workplace Environmental Intervention to Promote Physical Activity among the Staff of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak
Authors: Cheah Yong Xiang , Cheah Whye Lian , Hazmi Helmy
Published: July 2024

Background:

Physical inactivity is a significant public health issue affecting working adults because it can increase the risk of noncommunicable diseases.

Objectives:

The objective is to determine the outcomes of a multi-component workplace environmental intervention that incorporated physical activity self-regulation (PASR) to promote physical activity (PA) among employees.

Materials and Methods:

This was a 6-month intervention with a two-group, parallel, quasi-experimental study. A total of 11 workplaces were randomly assigned to intervention group (IG) or control group (CG) using a 1:1 allocation ratio. In each group, 84 eligible participants were recruited. The IG was exposed to the organizational support and the PA support components throughout the study. The PASR Scale, International PA Questionnaire, and pedometer were used to measure the outcome at the baseline, 3rd-month, and 6th-month follow-ups, respectively. The repeated measures-analysis of variance analysis was used to determine the changes in the PASR skills, MET-min/week, and step/week over time.

Results:

The IG had 75 participants (51 females and 24 males) and the CG had 73 participants (52 females and 21 males) at the 6th-month follow-up. Despite there was no statistically significant difference in the outcomes between groups over time, the IG showed significant improvements in total PASR (ηp
2 = 0.021), goal setting (ηp
2 = 0.024), total MET-min/week (ηp
2 = 0.031), housework-related PA (ηp
2 = 0.101), and step/week (ηp
2 = 0.827) throughout this intervention.

Conclusion:

This intervention was found to be effective in improving the PASR skills, MET-min/week, and step/week of IG participants. Meanwhile, because some effect sizes were small, these findings should be interpreted with caution.
National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke: A Scoping Review in the Context of Hypertension Prevention and Control in India
Authors: Venugopal Vinayagamoorthy , Richa Richa , Singh Dibyanshu , Gautam Anuradha , Jahnavi G.
Published: July 2024

A scoping review was carried out to identify gaps in the performance of the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) towards the preparedness of the public health system especially at primary level in dealing with hypertension (HTN). The World Health Organization Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions (WHO ICCC) framework was adapted for the current review under three levels namely micro, meso, and macro. PubMed Central was accessed to retrieve eligible articles published since 2010. Preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews checklist was followed for reporting. A final selection of 27 articles that fulfilled the eligibility criteria of the current review was drawn from a long list of 542 articles. Cross-sectional studies contributed to 51.8% of the included studies. We observed that NPCDCS had gaps across all levels of health care, especially at the primary level. At the micro-level noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), awareness among patients was suboptimal and treatment adherence was poor. At the meso-level, there was a vacancy in all cadres of workers and lack of regular training of workforce, laboratory services, and inconsistent availability of essential drugs, equipment, and related supplies to be ensured. At the macro-level, public spending on NCD care needs to be increased along with strategies to reduce out-of-pocket expenditure and improve universal health coverage. In conclusion, there is a need to improve components related to all three levels of the WHO ICCC framework to amplify the impact of HTN care through NPCDCS, particularly at the primary level.
Hypertension in India: Trends in Wealth-related Inequalities from the National Family Health Surveys
Authors: Verma Madhur , Ramasubramani Premkumar , Rai Shreyans , Sharma Priyanka , Krishnamoorthy Yuvaraj , Kakkar Rakesh
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

India depicts a very high prevalence of hypertension. We need to learn more about the effect of wealth-related disparities on the prevalence of hypertension. The primary objective of this study was to assess temporal changes in the epidemiology of hypertension and associated wealth-related disparities among adults using two waves of nationally representative datasets from India.

Methods:

We did a secondary data analysis of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) rounds 4 and 5. We included information from the two rounds from 699,686 and 108,791 males and 92,804 and 677,803 females. Weighted analysis and multivariate binomial regression were used to depict the prevalence and predictors of hypertension. Inequalities were estimated using the concentration index (CI) and concentration curves.

Results:

The weighted prevalence of hypertension among males increased from 14.6% to 16.7% among males, and from 8.8% to 9.9% among females, between NFHS-4 and NFHS-5. Prehypertension rose from 43.3% to 48.3% for males, and females, from 30.2% to 36.2% between the NFHS rounds. Overall, the CI among the males (0.078 and 0.050) and females (0.102 and 0.059) decreased from rounds 4 to 5, depicting a decrease in pro-poor wealth-related inequalities in hypertension prevalence in India.

Conclusions:

To conclude, the current analysis depicts that inequalities due to which hypertension was more prevalent in the wealthier classes in India are slowly disappearing. Therefore, we need to target the already exhausted poor patients with limited access to health-care resources to prevent them from further shifting beyond the line of poverty before these differences narrow down further.
Evaluation of Malaria Microscopy Diagnostic Performance at the Public Health Center on the Border of Indonesia Timor-Leste
Authors: Lidia Kartini , Setianingrum Elisabeth Levina Sari , Riwu Magdarita , Lada Christina Olly , Anastasi Hayani
Published: July 2024

Accurate diagnosis is a key strategy for controlling and preventing malaria. Regular evaluation of the performance of malaria microscopy diagnosis is essential to ensure its high quality. This study aims to assess the accuracy of malaria microscopy at selected public health facilities on the border of Indonesia and Timor-Leste. The design of this research is observational with a cross-sectional approach, conducted at five public health centers located on the Indonesia Timor-Leste border from July to September 2022. Stained slides were collected from patients with a fever (≥37°C). These stained slides were then examined for malaria diagnosis. The results revealed that all five public health centers showed perfect or nearly perfect agreement with the reference microscopist regarding malaria detection by microscopy (κ =0.9–1). To maintain the high quality of malaria microscopy diagnosis, it is imperative to conduct regular training, monitoring, and evaluation.
Development, Validity, and Reliability of a Food Frequency Questionnaire Eliciting the Dietary Advanced Glycation End Product Consumption among Obese Adolescents Aged 10–19 Years
Authors: Punjabi Juhi , Hemamalini A. J. , Premkumar Sarala
Published: July 2024

Background:

Obesity has reached an alarming rate affecting all categories of the population. A tremendous rise in obesity has been observed in children and adolescents. In India, the prevalence of adolescent obesity is more than 30% of the population. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are a diverse group of compounds formed by the amalgamation of glucose and a protein moiety. These glycated compounds are found in processed foods subjected to high-temperature cooking techniques contributing to the formation of dietary AGEs (dAGEs). The enormous consumption of dAGE attributes to the development of metabolic diseases.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to develop and validate a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) among obese adolescents aged 10–19 years to gauge their dAGE consumption.

Materials and Methods:

This questionnaire was developed from previous literature (15 articles), validated using the content validity ratio (CVR) by Lawshe, and estimated for reliability using the test–retest method. A pilot study was done among 50 obese adolescents aged 10–19 years, who completed the questionnaire twice, with a gap of 15 days.

Results:

A total of 54 items were validated (CVR ≥0.99) from the 60 food items. A reliability score >0.7 was observed, and a significant correlation (P ≥ 0.01) between the test and retest results was determined.

Conclusion:

Hence, this FFQ is reliable and can be used for future research studies to elicit dAGE consumption among obese adolescents.
COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance among Parents of Children Younger than 12 Years in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alsaigh Rasha Rashad , Algahny Abeer Ali , Ahmed Wisal Abdulmohimen , Alzhrani Abeer Saeed , Albahrani Athar Ibrahim , Angawi Khadijah
Published: July 2024

The current study evaluates COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among parents of children younger than 12 in Saudi Arabia. A cross-sectional research design was used. A total of 1152 parents participated. About 26.5% of children were vaccinated. The COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy scale mean score is 2.65 among participating parents. About 31.3% of participants were vaccine hesitant, 68.7% were not. High levels of hesitation are present in 70.8% of mother respondents and 57.6% of fathers (P = 0.001). About 72.7% of parents who received false information about COVID-19 vaccines had a high hesitancy level (P = 0.001). The odds ratio = 1.94 (P < 0.001) indicates that parents exposed to false information are more likely to have higher levels of hesitancy than others. There remains a significant number of parents who value the importance of vaccination and rely on accurate and reliable sources of information to make informed decisions.
Epidemiology of Coronavirus Disease 2019 during the Second and Third Wave in Chennai, India: An Analysis of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Surveillance System, February 2021–February 2022
Authors: Parasuraman Ganeshkumar , Kaviprawin Mogan , Sakthivel Manikandanesan , Jagadeesan M. , Varghese Alby John , Sriramulu Hemalatha Masanam , Ramamurthy Srinath , Murali Sharan , Rubeshkumar Polani , Murugesan Lakshmidevi , Ganapathi Raajkumar , Srinivasan Mahalakshmi , Kaur Prabhdeep
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Analysis of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) surveillance system in the first wave indicated that the data-driven approach helped in resource allocation and public health interventions.

Objectives:

We described the epidemiology of COVID-19 cases in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, from February 2021 to February 2022.

Materials and Methods:

We analyzed the COVID-19 surveillance data from Chennai City, Tamil Nadu, India’s Greater Chennai Corporation. We described the deidentified line list of COVID-19 cases and deaths by months, zones, age, and gender. We estimated the incidence of COVID-19 cases per million population, test positivity rate (TPR), and case fatality ratio (CFR).

Results:

Of the 434,040 cases reported in Chennai from February 1, 2021, to February 28, 2022, 53% were male. The incidence per million peaked in May 2021 (19,210) and January 2022 (15,881). Age groups more than 60 years reported maximum incidence. Southern region zones reported higher incidence. Overall TPR was 5.8%, peaked in May 2021 (17.5%) and January 2022 (15.1%). Over half of the 4929 reported deaths were in May 2021 (56%). Almost half of the deaths were 61–80 years (52%), followed by 41–60 years (26%). Overall CFR was 1%, which peaked in June 2021 (4%).

Conclusion:

We conclude that Chennai city experienced a surge in COVID-19 due to delta and omicron variants. Understanding descriptive epidemiology is vital for planning the public health response, resource allocation, vaccination policies, and risk communication to the community.
Social and Cultural Insights into Healthy Aging: A Qualitative Study from the South Indian City of Bengaluru, India
Authors: Vaz Manjulika , Kalliath Priyanka Catherine Mani , Nagaraja Deepika , Kiran Pretesh Rohan , Garady Lavanya , Kasthuri Arvind , Sambashivaiah Sucharita
Published: July 2024

Background:

Qualitative methods through lived experience narratives provide relevant sociocultural insights into healthy aging.

Objectives:

The aim of this qualitative study was to explore social and cultural perceptions of healthy aging from older adults (OAs), their next of kin, and those involved in providing services to OAs in Bengaluru, India.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted in-depth interviews with 28 participants, all purposefully selected based on specific inclusion criteria, to get as varied a sample as possible. A pilot-tested, open-ended topic guide was used for every interview which was audio recorded with the permission of the respondent. Verbatim data were transcribed, reviewed for errors, and coded using NVivo 12 software and the framework analysis method of combining deductive and inductive codes.

Results:

In total, 794 codes covering concepts of healthy aging, enablers and threats to healthy aging, and perspectives for the future were categorized into four themes supporting healthy aging, namely emotional well-being and a sense of purpose, family and social support, financial security, and health-care access. Each of these had a bearing on the OA’s physical and mental health. Across socioeconomic groups, a sense of purpose at the level of the self, family, and society emerged as a key emotional sustainer. Social and economic deprivations were key threats to healthy aging and hence required social security and governmental interventions.

Conclusion:

Sociocultural economic factors are key to healthy physical and mental aging in the context of India. The same factor could be an enabler and in its absence a threat.
Immunophenotypic and Cytogenetic Characteristics of Pediatric Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: A Burden Estimation Study from Eastern India
Authors: Sarkar Subhajit Dey , Maiti Dipshikha , Ghosh Apurba , Ganguly Mimi , Ahmed Nazneen
Published: July 2024

Background:

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer. Immunophenotype (IPT) and cytogenetics are essential for diagnosis, risk stratification, and management for ALL.

Objectives:

Evaluating the burden of immunophenotypic and cytogenetic profile of pediatric ALL patients.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 patients of ALL (1–18 completed years) attending a tertiary-care center in Kolkata, Eastern India.

Results:

Ninety-six percent of patients had B-cell ALL (94.00% pre-B ALL and 2.00% Pro-B ALL) and 4.0% had T-ALL. 60% B-cell ALL were CD19/CD10 positive, 10% were CD79a positive, 9% were only CD19 positive, and 7% were only CD10 positive. Thirty-three percent of T-ALL were CD3+, whereas 22% were positive each for CD4 and CD7. 51.0% of patients had diploid, 46.0% hyperdiploid, and 3.0% hypodiploid karyotype. Among hyperdiploids, 98% had good prednisolone response and 89% had measurable residual disease (MRD) <0.01.

Conclusion:

The most commonly diagnosed ALL by IPT was pre-B ALL. Among the detectable cytogenetic abnormalities, t(12; 21) ETV6-RUNX1 was the most common. ZNF-384 gene arrangement was also detected in our study. t(12;21) ETV6-RUNX1 had a good treatment response, while t(9;22) BCR-ABL, t(1;19) TCF3-PBX1, iAMP-21, MLL gene rearrangement, and ZNF-384 gene arrangement had poor treatment response in terms of MRD.
Does Public Spending Reflect the Need for Health: A Cross-sectional Analysis at District Level in India
Authors: Prinja Shankar , Sharma Atul , Goyal Aarti , Muraleedharan V. R.
Published: July 2024

Background:

There is mixed evidence on the extent of association between the allocation of public revenue for healthcare and its indicators of need.

Objective:

In this study, we examined the relationship between allocations through state health financing (SHF) and the Central Government with infant mortality.

Materials and Methods:

District-wise infant mortality rate (IMR) was computed using National Family Health Survey-4 data. State-wise data for health budgets through SHF and National Health Mission (NHM, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme), were obtained for the year 2015-16. We used a multivariable analysis through generalized linear model method using identity-link function.

Results:

We found per capita SHF (₹3169) to be more than 12 times that of public health spending per capita through NHM (₹261). IMR was lower in districts with higher SHF allocation, although statistically insignificant. The allocation through NHM was higher in districts with higher IMR, which is statistically significant. Every unit percentage increase in per capita net state domestic product and female literacy led to 0.31% and 0.54% decline, while a 1% increase in under-five diarrhoea prevalence led to 0.17% increase in IMR.

Conclusion:

The NHM has contributed to enhancing vertical equity in health-care financing. The States’ need to be more responsive to the differences in districts while allocating health-care resources. There needs to be a focus on spending on social determinants, which should be the cornerstone for any universal health coverage strategy.
Challenges and adaptations of dental students post-COVID-19 lockdown: A cross-sectional study in an Indian Dental Institution
Authors: Noor Rana , Khan Shariya , Yasmeen Subuhi
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND/PURPOSE:

The transition from online learning methods to the traditional offline mode of education post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought several challenges for dental students. The present study aimed to investigate the hardships and adaptations experienced by dental students while shifting back to an offline mode of education.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

An online survey-based questionnaire was distributed among 160 Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) students and the feedback of about 102 students was recorded.

RESULTS:

The study yielded a response rate of 63.7% comprising of females (66.7%) and males (33.3%) respondents. The participants were categorized among two different age groups including students below 22 years of age and students equal to or above 22 years of age. The majority of the females (67.6%) are found to be more fearful of exposure to infection while working with patients in clinics compared with males (44.1%; P = 0.022). The students (≥22 years of age; 76.3%) found more difficulty in convincing their patients to get the reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction test done before proceeding with the clinical procedure than the students (<22 years of age; 48.8%; P = 0.004). Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) third year (61.8%), fourth-year (62.5%), 2018 batch interns (88.9%), and 2019 batch interns (94.1%) students experienced difficulty in wearing personal protective equipment all the time while working in clinics (P = 0.011). The maximum number of students (79.4%) still prefer writing over typing comprising a greater number of females (85.3%) than males (67.6%; P = 0.038). Male students (70.6%) are found less anxious about COVID-19 infection while staying in a hostel/paying guests compared with female students (45.6%; P =0.017). The majority of the students (95.1%) including more females (98.5%) compared with males (88.2%) follow proper sterilization procedures while working in clinics (P = 0.023).

CONCLUSION:

Dental students have faced various difficulties post-COVID-19 lockdown, particularly in the field of clinical practice while shifting back to offline mode of education.