bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Éléments moteurs et facteurs de risque de la viabilité financière locale allemande avec le revenu ajusté en point de mire
Authors: Frintrup Markus , Hilgers Dennis
Published: April 2024

Analyser la viabilité financière des gouvernements locaux présente un grand intérêt, car ils offrent un large éventail de services et sont proches des citoyens. Diverses organisations ont souligné la nécessité d’analyser les déterminants de la viabilité financière, et des recherches récentes se sont concentrées sur plusieurs pays européens, en utilisant le revenu ajusté comme variable dépendante. Pour combler le manque de recherche dans le contexte des gouvernements locaux allemands, nous menons une analyse empirique basée sur 5 années de données issues de 363 gouvernements locaux de Rhénanie-du-Nord-Westphalie pour analyser l’impact des facteurs socio-démographiques et financiers-économiques sur la viabilité financière, en nous concentrant sur le revenu ajusté. Nos résultats indiquent que la viabilité financière est influencée par des facteurs sur lesquels les gouvernements locaux n’ont aucun impact ou seulement un impact limité. Plus précisément, le niveau d’endettement et le niveau de population sont identifiés comme des facteurs de risque, tandis que les impôts propres, les dotations complémentaires des collectivités locales et l’excédent de trésorerie net favorisent la viabilité financière. Remarques à l’intention des praticiens Il est important pour les politiciens et les gestionnaires publics de comprendre les déterminants de la viabilité financière afin d’améliorer leurs processus de gestion des risques et de prise de décisions et de prévenir les futurs problèmes de viabilité. Ce document identifie plusieurs déterminants socio-démographiques et financiers-économiques de la viabilité financière, sur lesquels les collectivités locales n’ont qu’un impact limité. Considérant que la viabilité financière des collectivités locales allemandes en Rhénanie-du-Nord-Westphalie dépend en grande partie de facteurs externes, les décideurs politiques pourraient être très intéressés eu égard aux crises financières à venir.
Extraction of PEM fuel cell parameters using Walrus Optimizer
Authors: Houssein Essam H. , Samee Nagwan Abdel , Alabdulhafith Maali , Said Mokhtar
Published: April 2024

The process of identifying the optimal unknown variables for the creation of a precision fuel-cell performance forecasting model using optimization techniques is known as parameter identification of the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC). Recognizing these factors is crucial for accurately forecasting and assessing the fuel cell's performance, as they may not always be included in the manufacturer's datasheet. Six optimization algorithms—the Walrus Optimizer (WO), the Tunicate Swarm Algorithm (TSA), the Harris Hawks Optimizer (HHO), the Heap Based Optimizer (HBO), the Chimp Optimization Algorithm (ChOA), and the Osprey Optimization Algorithm (OOA) were used to compute six unknown variables of a PEMFC. Also, the proposed WO method was compared with other published works' methods such as the Equilibrium Optimizer (EO), Manta Rays Foraging Optimizer (MRFO), Neural Network Algorithm (NNA), Artificial Ecosystem Optimizer (AEO), Slap Swarm Optimizer (SSO), and Vortex Search Approach with Differential Evolution (VSDE). Minimizing the sum squares error (SSE) between the estimated and measured cell voltages requires treating these six parameters as choice variables during optimization. The WO algorithm yielded an SSE of 1.945415603, followed by HBO, HHO, TSA, ChOA, and OOA. Given that WO accurately forecasted the fuel cell's performance, it is appropriate for the development of digital twins for fuel cell applications and control systems for the automobile industry. Furthermore, it was shown that the WO convergence speed was faster than the other approaches studied.
Finite-time synchronization for fuzzy shunting inhibitory cellular neural networks
Authors: Nuriyev Zhangir , Issakhanov Alfarabi , Kurths Jürgen , Kashkynbayev Ardak
Published: April 2024

Finite-time synchronization is a critical problem in the study of neural networks. The primary objective of this study was to construct feedback controllers for various models based on fuzzy shunting inhibitory cellular neural networks (FSICNNs) and find out the sufficient conditions for the solutions of those systems to reach synchronization in finite time. In particular, by imposing global assumptions of Lipschitz continuous and bounded activation functions, we prove the existence of finite-time synchronization for three basic FSICNN models that have not been studied before. Moreover, we suggest both controllers and Lyapunov functions that would yield a feasible convergence time between solutions that takes into account the chosen initial conditions. In general, we consecutively explore models of regular delayed FSICNNs and then consider them in the presence of either inertial or diffusion terms. Using criteria derived by means of the maximum-value approach in its different forms, we give an upper bound of the time up to which synchronization is guaranteed to occur in all three FSICNN models. These results are supported by 2D and 3D computer simulations and two respective numerical examples for $ 2\times 2 $ and $ 2\times 3 $ cases, which show the behavior of the solutions and errors under different initial conditions of FSICNNs in the presence and absence of designed controllers.
L’e-santé en difficulté dans la recherche clinique
Authors: Renou Thomas , Terral Philippe , Azéma Delphine
Published: April 2024

L’article porte sur l’introduction d’une plateforme d’e-santé dans un essai clinique cardiovasculaire. Nous l’abordons au prisme de la coordination entre les acteur·rices qui collaborent sur ce projet destiné à l’auto-suivi de la qualité de vie des patient·es. Il s’agit de rendre compte des difficultés d’une innovation technologique en santé à partir de la tension entre deux types d’enjeux dans le partenariat : des enjeux de validation des données selon les standards de la recherche biomédicale, et des enjeux de personnalisation du suivi des patient·es afin de saisir une diversité de profils. Nous mettons en évidence que l’intercompréhension minimale à l’œuvre dès le début du partenariat dissimule des problèmes ultimement fatals au projet.
The role of loneliness and general health in predicting life satisfaction
Authors: Mirshekar Mahlagha , Tahvilian Mohammadreza
Published: April 2024

Students are one of society’s most important groups, and their health and well-being are among every nation’s priorities. Satisfaction with life, as one of the effective components of well-being, is related to mental and physical health; throughout time, the feeling of satisfaction with one’s life faces some ups and downs. This descriptive study investigated the relationship between loneliness, general health, and student satisfaction and was carried out using correlational designs on the statistical population of Sistan and Baluchistan University students in 2023. Furthermore, 106 people were selected among male and female students by the convenience sampling method, and they were asked to complete satisfaction questionnaires: Huebner’s life, Goldberg’s general health scale, and Russell’s loneliness questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 22 software through Pearson’s correlation coefficient and step-by-step regression model. The findings indicated a significant relationship between life satisfaction, general health, and loneliness (p<0/001). Also, the step-by-step regression analysis showed that loneliness can predict life satisfaction (p<0/001). It seems that the developments and conditions of the student period and the distance of most students from their families pose serious challenges, including the unpleasant feeling of loneliness, which overshadows life satisfaction and, consequently, the psychological well-being of this young group, ultimately reducing their efficiency. Their social and educational skills are adequate; therefore, self-care behaviors, creating and developing stable social interactions in academic environments, and seeking help for mental and emotional health problems are emphasized. Considering the limitations of the current research and its cross-sectional nature, longitudinal studies in this field are recommended.
Dimensions of Social Axioms and Alternative Country-Clustering Methods
Authors: Gari Aikaterini , Mylonas Kostas , Panagiotopoulou Penny
Published: April 2024

Social Axioms are defined as general beliefs that represent one’s view about how the world functions and how two entities are related “in the universe”. The Social Axiom dimensions as proposed by Leung & Bond are Social Cynicism, Social Complexity, Reward for Application, Fate Control, and Religiosity. The first aim of this study was to investigate how the Social Axiom dimensions are identified in Greece and in five more countries (N=1,375) that differ broadly in their ecological and religion characteristics (Hong-Kong, USA, UK, Spain, and India). The second aim was to enhance factor equivalence levels by forming homogeneous subsets of countries through the application of an alternative method on factor structure similarity among countries. For the Greek factor structure some emic characteristics are discussed in respect to the specific cultural setting. For all six countries, factor equivalence among countries was present to some extent for the initial factor structures. For cluster of countries though, almost maximum equivalence with the overall factor structure was reached. However, some inequivalence among clusters of countries for specific factors was still present and useful in describing diversity based on the specific cultural characteristics of the clusters of countries.
Comparative Study on Concept Construction for Violence, Intelligence and Religion in Early Adolescence in the Parisian Suburbs
Authors: Lammel Annamária , Márquez Eduardo
Published: April 2024

Based on association tasks, we focused our research on the process of concept construction and on the nature of the semantic structure network of three important concepts in the lives of young adolescents in the Parisian suburbs: violence, religion and intelligence. In this exploratory study, we were interested in identifying similarities and differences in the organization of these social concepts between adolescents with French parents and adolescents with immigrant parents. Despite the fact that these children share common “eco-cultural” experiences, we supposed that the different cultural guidelines in the family settings might influence the construction and the semantic organization of the concepts. Subjects were all born in France (N=228), and they share the same social environment and low socioeconomic status. Analyses of representational fields and of semantic networks were conducted and evidence for some similarities as well as for major differences between the two groups in concept construction and in semantic organization was present. Our findings showed a more homogeneous organization in children with immigrant parents; meanwhile French children’s structures of concepts are more heterogeneous. Major differences can also be observed at the semantic level. The findings are discussed in respect to the concept formation literature and the eco-cultural approach of human development.
An Emerging Integration of Universal and Culturally Specific Psychologies and its Implications for the Study of Psychopathology
Authors: Smith Gregory , Spillane Nichea , Stairs Agnes
Published: April 2024

There is an emerging consensus among researchers on the need to integrate universal and culturally specific psychological perspectives. Important tasks in this process have included identifying the appropriate level of generality for putatively universal processes, how to understand culturally different processes in light of shared universal capacities, and the development of transparent scientific means for investigating cultural differences. In this chapter, the authors discuss each of these issues. It appears to be true that many psychological processes appear to reflect culturally-specific instantiations of universal capacities. The authors then consider implications of this emerging integration for psychology, by applying it to the study of psychopathology. They report on formal models that explain why some cultures embrace dysfunction among members. They then use the integrative framework to describe methods for determining whether putative disorders bring universal or contextual life dysfunction, and to clarify etiological models of three disorders. Models of psychopathology can be more informed and precise if they include careful consideration of both universal and cultural influences on behavior. Cultural psychology is not a separate discipline within psychology; rather, it informs, and should be integrated with, the various content domains within the field.
Dimensions of Well-Being: A Cross-Cultural Study in European Neighborhoods
Authors: Panagiotopoulou Penny , Gari Aikaterini , Christakopoulou Sophia
Published: April 2024

People build their sense of well-being by responding to their objectively defined environment. The community environment and more specifically the neighborhood affects the subjective and psychological well being of the individuals. Neighboring refers to the residents’ social interaction and mutual material and non material support. This chapter attempts to examine how the social, political, and economic aspect of community life is related to community well-being focusing on community satisfaction, informal social interaction, feeling safe, the residents’ involvement in the community decision making process, the economic life, and the job opportunities and training of 705 participants in six European cultural settings: Dingle Partnership Area (DPA), Liverpool, United Kingdom; Bournazi, Athens, Greece; Westside, Galway, Ireland; Plateia Eleftherias, Patras, Greece; Knocknaheeny, Cork, Ireland; and Kontopefko, Athens, Greece. The overall picture as emerged by one-way analyses of variance and a posteriori Scheffé comparisons employed is defined by the clear statistical differences regarding the informal social interaction, community services satisfaction and income sufficiency and the more homogeneous conditions regarding the residents’ feeling of safety, their involvement in the community decision making process and their job/training opportunities in the community. The neighborhood contextual effects on individuals’ behavior and affect are complicated and ask for an integrated approach, as population stability and coherence as well as opportunities for interaction need to be addressed too.
Guidelines for the Use of 2023 Food Exchange Lists for Diabetes Meal Planning
Authors: Lim Jeong Hyun
Published: April 2024

Nutrition therapy is plays a pivotal role in diabetes prevention and blood glucose control among diabetics. The contents of the revision of the food exchange lists are as follows. First, the National Standard Food Ingredient Table 10.0 database was used, and the existing classification system and the standard amount of representative nutrients for each food group were maintained. Second, the food list increased significantly from 339 to 435 types in 2010, reflecting survey results from diabetes educators on the addition and deletion of foods. Third, an example of distribution of food groups by energy was planned based on the intake ratio of macronutrients and the ratio of intake of various carbohydrates (40~45%, 50~55%, and 60~65%) to facilitate use in meal patterns in consideration of the patient’s usual eating habits. Fourth, various meal planning methods and diets were presented for individualized meals. Fifth, because of the rapid changes to information on healthy diabetic meals and practices, as well as limitations on updates and revisions, the method of accessing and interpreting data is included in detail.
Clinicopathological characteristics of placental chorioangioma: A clinicopathological study of 30 cases
Authors: Zheng Yuanyin , Liu Xiaobin , Mao Yingyu , Lin Maohua
Published: April 2024

Objective:

The objective is to explore clinicopathological characteristics, diagnosis, differential diagnoses, treatment, and prognoses of placental chorioangioma (PCA).

Materials and Methods:

The pathological data of 30 cases of PCA were collected; the color Doppler ultrasound, Down’s screening, fetal survival, and pathological characteristics were observed; and the literature was reviewed.

Results:

Of the 30 patients, the ages ranged from 20 to 38 years, with an average of 29.6 years. Pregnancy comorbidity occurred in 14 patients; intrauterine fetal death occurred in 4; the gross appearance of the tumor: a reddish-brown nodule, slightly round, 0.5–8 cm in diameter, can be seen on the cut surface of the placenta Pregnancy comorbidity occurred in 14 patients and intrauterine fetal death in 4. On sectioning the placenta, tumors grossly appeared as reddish-brown nodules, slightly round and ranging in diameter from 0.5 to 8 cm. Microscopically, the tumor has small, densely packed capillaries with fibrous connective tissue in the stroma. There were 10 cases with high risk of Down’s syndrome screening, and the immunophenotype CD34 (+) and Ki-67 proliferation index were less than 10%.

Conclusions:

PCA is rare and may be misdiagnosed as malignant tumor, which may be related to pregnancy comorbidity and high risk of Down’s screening, so improving the understanding of PCA can provide the basis for clinical diagnosis and intervention. PCA is a rare tumor which may be misdiagnosed as a malignancy. It may be related to pregnancy comorbidity and high risk of Down’s screening. Improving the understanding of PCA could provide the basis for clinical diagnosis and intervention.
Cleidocranial dysplasia associated with dentigerous cyst—review of literature and case report of two siblings
Authors: Bhardwaj Nandini , Puri Abhiney , Wadhwan Vijay , Gupta Monika
Published: April 2024

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a developmental anomaly of the skeleton and teeth which may be inherited, be transmitted as dominant characteristics in either male or female or even appear spontaneously. A case was reported in the department of oral medicine and radiology of two sisters age 17 and 19 years old with a chief complaint of milk teeth not falling since childhood. They presented specific physical and oral findings in common which suggested the idea of an undiagnosed syndrome. The sisters showed CCD characteristics including short stature (4 feet) and frontal bone resorption indicating delayed closure of fontanels. The stature is moderately shortened with the neck appearing long and narrow and the shoulders markedly dropped. Dental abnormalities such as retention of primary dentition, multiple supernumerary teeth, and delayed eruption of permanent dentition. OPG showed the presence of multiple impacted permanent and supernumerary teeth with radiolucency involving the crowns of impacted teeth revealing a cystic lesion. Lateral cephalogram also revealed the presence of multiple impacted teeth. The provisional diagnosis of CCD with dentigerous cyst was given. The enucleation of cyst was done and submitted for histopathological examination. Histopathologically, the soft tissue section suggested the features of dentigerous cyst. The final diagnosis of CCD associated with dentigerous cyst was confirmed.
Darier disease: Histopathology revisited
Authors: Manohar Archana , Antony Meryl , Tirumalae Rajalakshmi , Kalegowda Inchara Yeliur
Published: April 2024

Darier disease (DD) is a rare genodermatosis. Literature on this topic is overwhelmingly dominated by case reports with rare clinical presentations, which have mentioned the histopathologic features briefly. The aim of this study was to document the histopathology of DD. Skin biopsies diagnosed as Darier disease based on clinicopathologic correlation over 12 years were reviewed for various epidermal and dermal features. There were 16 patients included, who most commonly presented in the third decade, with slight female predilection. The most common clinical presentation was hyperpigmented, hyperkeratotic, papules and plaques (91%), with 69% affecting the trunk. In addition to the classic suprabasal acantholytic clefts, we noted some unusual features: absence of parakeratosis (19%), a cornoid lamella-like pattern (62%), follicular acantholysis (13%) and multiple foci of involvement within a single biopsy (63%). Features such as the presence of dyskeratotic cells and minimal dermal lymphocytic infiltrates were concordant with previous literature. The limitation of this study was the small sample size. To conclude, pathologists must be aware of the variations in histopathology of Darier’s disease, especially when challenged with atypical clinical presentations. The Darier-like pattern is met within several acantholytic diseases, and clinicopathologic correlation has the last word in arriving at a diagnosis.
Preparedness of diabetic patients for receiving telemedical health care: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Kumar Pratyush , Puri Oshin , Unnithan Vishnu B. , Reddy Asmitha P. , Aswath Shravya , Pathania Monika
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

This study evaluates feasibility of telemedicine to deliver diabetic care among different regions of the country.

Materials and Methods:

Medical interns affiliated with Rotaract Club of Medicrew (RCM) organized a Free Diabetes Screening Camp called “Diab-at-ease” at multiple sites across the country. Of all beneficiaries of the camp >18 years of age, patients previously diagnosed with diabetes and undiagnosed patients with a random blood sugar level of more than 200 mg/dL were interviewed regarding their knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding diabetes care and preparedness and vigilance to receiving care through telemedicine. Random blood sugar, height, weight, and waist circumference were also documented.

Results:

About 51.1% (N = 223) of female patients aged 57.57 ± 13.84 years (>18 years) with body mass index (BMI) =26.11 ± 4.63 were the beneficiaries of the health camps. About 75.3% (n = 168) of them were on oral hypoglycemic agents (OHAs), 15.7% (n = 35) were on insulin preparations, and 59.6% (n = 156) and 88.5% (n = 31) of which were highly compliant with treatment, respectively. About 35% (n = 78) and 43.9% (n = 98) of them were unaware of their frequency of hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic episodes, respectively. About 64.6% (n = 144) of the patients were equipped for receiving teleconsultation. Glucometer was only possessed by 51.6% (115) of which only 46.95% (n = 54) can operate it independently. Only 80 patients (35.9%) were aware of the correct value of blood glucose levels.

Conclusion:

While a majority of the population is compliant with treatment and aware about diabetes self-care, they lack adequate knowledge and resource equipment for the same leading to very limited utilization.
A simple solution to help with feeding difficulties in neonates with cleft palate: A case report
Authors: Yadav Lucky , Mattu Navraj , Mehra Pravesh , Vasisth Diwakar
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Feeding a neonate baby with a complete cleft lip and palate is a problematic pursuit because of the communication between the oral and the nasal cavity and associated problems. This present case is of a 6-day-old underweight neonate with feeding difficulties due to the cleft palate. In this case report, simple, uncomplicated steps for the fabrication of a feeding obturator are explained to aid in the proper nourishment of neonates for definite corrective procedures in the future with overall growth.
Maternal and neonatal outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic and pre-pandemic in an urban slum in North India – A community-based ambispective cohort study
Authors: Rajavel Saranya , Sathiabalan M , Singh Tarundeep
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has affected millions of people globally since its first case reported on December 2019 in Wuhan, China. The maternal and neonatal outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic were not much reported in low- and middle-income countries. Therefore, we aimed to assess the maternal and neonatal outcomes during COVID-19 and compared them with those of the pre-pandemic period (i.e., 2019).

Materials and Methods:

We obtained data from the cohort of pregnant women who delivered during COVID-19 pandemic and women who delivered in the pre-pandemic period. All registered antenatal mothers resident of the selected dispensary who delivered in health care facilities from January 2019 to June 2019 and from January 2021 to June 2021 were included in the study for assessing the socio-demographic, antenatal, natal, post-natal, and new-born characteristics. A semi-structed questionnaire was used for obtaining details regarding pregnancy and COVID-19 status. The neuro-development assessment of the newborn was done in the community using Trivandrum Developmental Screening Chart (TDSC). Chi-square test and Fischer exact test were used to draw association between the maternal and neonatal outcomes during COVID-19 pandemic and the pre-COVID-19 period. A P value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

A total of 158 and 220 women delivered in pre-COVID and during COVID, respectively. Out of them, 83 mothers (47.4%) who delivered in 2019 (pre-COVID) and 158 mothers (76.4%) who delivered in 2021 (during pandemic) were contacted. The mean age was 25 ± 3.9 years. The prevalence of anemia was significantly higher during COVID pandemic. The proportion of Rh-negative mothers and other antenatal investigation reports was similar in both the groups. The proportion of high-risk pregnancy is high among mothers who delivered during COVID than the pre-COVID period. On applying multivariate analysis, developmental delay at 3 months was found to be significant among children who were born during pandemic.

Conclusion:

A simple tool was used for assessing development milestones, and we have found that newborns delivered during COVID-19 pandemic were reported to have inappropriate developmental milestone at 3 months post-delivery. However, further research needed to assess the neuro-developmental status and follow-up of children born during COVID-19 pandemic for comprehensive neuro-developmental assessment. It is important to identify children with developmental delays associated with the pandemic and provide them with support for learning, socialization, physical and mental health, and family support.
A hospital-based study of prostate biopsy results in Indian males
Authors: Khalid Mohd , Khan M. Mustafa , Jalily Qader Ahmed , Mummareddi Dinesh Eshwar , Sirangi Saritha , Dande Sri N.S. Avinash
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The prostate is a gland belonging to the male reproductive system. Aging results in the dysfunction of the prostate that may present as inflammation, enlargement, and cancer. Additionally, the diseases of the prostate including cancers are slow in progression, and therefore, it is difficult to diagnose them early. Hence, it is increasingly important for physicians to recommend histopathological examination of the prostate gland to identify, manage, and treat prostate cancers. This study was conducted to assess prostate diseases among biopsy specimen collected from patients with signs of prostate diseases.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective study was conducted in the Department of Pathology, Deccan College of Medical Sciences, Owaisi Hospital, Hyderabad, between June 2012 and September 2014. All gross specimens (n = 300) of the prostate such as the needle biopsies of the prostate, transurethral resection of the prostate (TURP) chips, and excised specimens of the prostate were included in the study. Histopathological examinations of the biopsies were performed for nuclear size, chromatin material, nucleoli, membrane thickness, irregularity, cytoplasmic granularity, staining, and cell border conspicuity. The biopsies were also assessed for lobule formation, secretions, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, lymphocytes, macrophages, connective tissue stromal cells, their arrangements, and acellular connective tissue material.

Results:

Of 300 total prostatic biopsies performed, 56 (18.66%) were identified as inflammatory lesions of the prostate (prostatitis), 98 (32.66%) revealed benign prostatic lesions (benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)), 112 (37.33%) were identified as BPH with premalignant lesions, and 34 (11.33%) were revealed as malignant tumors of the prostate. Chronic prostatitis (67.85%) was the common inflammatory lesion. The majority (91.42%) revealed epithelial lesions compared to stromal lesions (08.58%). BPH was predominantly (28.00%) noticed among patients in the age group of 61–70 years. Prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN) was observed majorly (53.35%) in the age group of 61–70 years. Most of the prostatic cancers were identified as adenocarcinomas. However, three variants were also categorized as small cell carcinoma, signet ring cell carcinoma, and transitional cell carcinomas.

Conclusions:

The results reveal that prostatic adenocarcinomas are predominant among the study population. Additionally, prostatic diseases including cancer are commonly noticed among people belonging to the age group of 61–70 years. More than one-third of patients showed BPH with premalignant lesions, and a majority of the study population showed evidence of chronic prostatitis.
Khat chewing among parents and their children: A potential transgenerational effect
Authors: Gosadi Ibrahim M. , Makeen Anwar M. , Alqassim Ahmad Y. , Aqeeli Abdulwahab A. , Ryani Majed A. , Bahri Ahmed A. , Suwaydi Hassan A. , Najmi Abdullah A. , Abualgasem Mohammed M.
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Khat has a stimulating and addictive effect and can induce consequences on the health and socioeconomic status of khat chewers.

Objectives:

This study aims to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of khat chewing among parents in Jazan and its consequential effect on their children.

Methods:

This cross-sectional investigation was conducted in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Data was collected via a web-based, self-administered questionnaire measuring demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices concerning khat chewing. The Chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test was used to assess factors associated with khat chewing among parents and its consequential effect on their children.

Results:

A total of 724 parents were included. The sample had an overall good knowledge about the health hazards of khat chewing and an attitude against khat chewing. Nonetheless, the number of parents who reported that they had ever tried khat chewing was 200 (27.6%) and 106 parents (14.6%) confirmed that their children were khat chewers. Additionally, 98 (13.5%) parents declared that they practiced khat chewing in front of their children. Higher frequencies of parents who reported providing khat to their children were identified among parents with higher attitude levels that favor khat chewing (P value = 0.04).

Conclusions:

Efforts should be made to develop targeted preventive and educational strategies to reduce khat chewing among parents who have favorable attitudes toward khat chewing.
Examining toilet use and menstrual hygiene practices among beneficiary households of Swachh Bharat Abhiyaan (Clean India Mission) in rural areas of Mayurbhanj district of Odisha, India
Authors: Behera Deepanjali , Mohanta Namrata , Behera Manas R. , Tripathy Snehasish , Kumar Abhishek
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Basic sanitation and waste management have always remained a central issue in India. The country launched its flagship sanitation program – Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (SBA) (Clean India Mission) in 2014 to abolish open defecation and achieve universal sanitation coverage.

Objective:

This study aimed to examine barriers to toilet use and women’s menstrual hygiene practices in relation to the availability of toilets among rural residents.

Materials and Methods:

Using a cross-sectional design and multi-stage sampling method, 120 households were selected from rural villages of the Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. Structured questionnaires and direct observation methods were used for data collection.

Results:

All the houses had SBA latrines, yet 25% population defecated outside. About 40% households reportedly never cleaned their toilets. Most menstruating women (86.2%) preferred to change their menstrual pads/cloths in their bedroom instead of bathrooms. Incomplete construction was reported as the major reason for not using toilets. Large family size and low caste were found to be other predictors of non-use of toilets. Rural women did not use toilets for menstrual purposes as they do not consider these places as clean and safe.

Conclusion:

This study clearly suggests that constructing toilets without adequate behaviour change interventions would not solve the problem of hygiene and sanitation in India, particularly in rural areas. There must be adequate monitoring of SBA scheme and utilization of funds for toilet usage. Development and implementation of suitable behaviour change strategies for toilet use in rural areas are essential to achieve the goal of open defaecation-free India.
Presentation, treatment profiles, and outcome of snake bite patients presented in emergency department at a tertiary hospital in Eastern Nepal
Authors: Gupta Pramendra Prasad , Bhandari Rabin , Bhandari Rupak , Sarraf Deependra P. , Malla Gyanendra
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Snake bite is one of the most common animal bites in Nepal. Different species of snake cause different clinical presentations. The incidence of snakebite is very high in rural Nepal. The objectives were to assess the presenting pattern, demographic profile, outcome, and treatment profiles of snakebite victims admitted to the emergency ward.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among the patients who presented in emergency department with alleged history of snake bites from 2015 to 2016. The patient’s record files were reviewed and the relevant data were recorded on a self-designed proforma. Descriptive statistics were calculated using SPSS version 11.5.

Results:

Out of 137 snakebite victims, 73 (53.3%) were female. The mean age was 35.17 ± 18.27 years. The upper limb (59%) was the most common site for snake bites followed by the lower limb (35.1%). Fifty patients (36.2%) were bitten by snakes during night (20.00–2.59 AM). Twenty-eight (20.4%) patients presented with ptosis as the most common sign and symptom followed by diplopia (15.3%). Out of 137 patients, 39 (28.5%) were admitted, 65 (47.4%) discharged, and 12 (8.8%) patients expired. Antisnake venom was given to 30 patients among which 23 patients (76.7%) were improved.

Conclusions:

Snake bite is one of the major problems in rural Nepal. It can be easily managed if treatment is given properly and in a timely manner. The importance of effective first aid management and effective treatment have to be disseminated among the peoples in rural areas via social media and radio.
Prevalence and gender difference in depression in primary health care in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Salve Harshal Ramesh , Jaiswal Abhishek , Rath Ramashankar , Sagar Rajesh , Vishnubhatla Srinivas
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Depression contributes to the major burden of mental illness in India. Assessment of burden is essential to develop interventions to address the problem at the primary care level.

Materials and Methods:

We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis of studies documenting the prevalence of depression in primary care in India. A wide literature search strategy was developed using keywords and Medical Subject Headings. The literature search was done in MEDLINE (via PubMed), IndMed, and major Indian psychiatric journal websites. The protocol was registered at PROSPERO. Bias assessment was carried out using a Cochrane risk of bias tool.

Results:

A total of 186 studies were identified after an initial search, of which 17 were included in the final analysis using pre-specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. The aggregate point prevalence of depression at the primary care level of the 17 studies using the random-effect model was 23.0% (95% CI: 16.0-30.0%). Significant heterogeneity was reported among the studies attributed majorly to a variety of study tools for assessing depression. Sub-group analysis revealed the higher aggregated prevalence of depression among females as compared to males at the primary care level.

Conclusion:

The study provided updated evidence of higher and gender differential burden of depression at the primary care level in India.
Clinician’s approach for spectrum of orbital diseases: An overview
Authors: Khan Lubna
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Purpose:

To study the varied clinical presentation and outcome of management of orbital diseases and to ascertain the concordance of FNAC with histopathology.

Materials and Methods:

This is a prospective interventional study wherein each patient’s clinical presentation was noted. Outcome of management was evaluated based on symptomatic relief, regression of signs, noting any intraoperative or postsurgical complication, recurrence, and cosmetic result in terms of surgical scar.

Results:

Neoplasia was commonest 33/76; (43.42%), followed by infective and inflammatory conditions 21/76; (27.63% cases), thyroid-associated orbitopathy accounting for 12/76 cases (15.78%), whereas cystic lesions and vascular malformations were 4/76 (5.26%) each. Other disorders constituted a mere 2.65%. Proptosis was the commonest mode of presentation. It was seen in seventy out of seventy-six patients (92.1%). In 86.3% of the cases, there was successful surgical outcome. Of 22 surgically managed cases, recurrence was noted in three cases (13.6%). 90% concordance was seen with histopathology in cases where FNAC was done prior to surgery for diagnosing nature of disease.

Conclusions:

Majority of orbital and adnexal conditions can be provisionally diagnosed based on imaging; however, an adjunct invasive investigation such as FNAC or biopsy may be required. In the present study, in seven cases (9.2%) FNAC was needed, whereas in two cases (2.63%) biopsy was needed. A definitive diagnosis was confirmed by histopathology in 22 surgically managed cases and by excision biopsy in two. 22/76 (28.94%) of the cases needed surgical treatment, and other cases required conservative or palliative approach.
Perceived social support, loneliness, and depression among elderly living in old-age homes
Authors: Gurrapu Rakesh , Ammapattian Thirumoorthy , Antony Sojan
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Older persons occasionally or permanently relocate from their own houses to institutions or old-age homes as a result of the current socio-demographic changes and circumstances. In this scenario, the current study aimed to assess the perceived social support, loneliness, and depression among the elderly living in old-age homes.

Materials and Methods:

We have conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study among the elders living in old-age homes in Bengaluru urban, who have been staying in old-age homes for at least 6 months or above, and the age group of 60 years or above. Data were obtained from 40 respondents from four old-age homes using a simple random sampling method. Structured interview schedules have been used which included a socio-demographic profile, geriatric depression scale, multidimensional scale of perceived social support, and emotional and social loneliness scale.

Results:

The majority of the respondents (82.5%) belonged to the age category of 60–70 years. More than half of the respondents were females (57.5%); 30% of the respondents were widowed. Nearly two-thirds of them belonged to below poverty line families. The analysis showed a negative correlation between perceived social support and loneliness and depression and a positive correlation between loneliness and depression. There is a significant gender difference among study variables such as perceived social support and depression. The results also show significant differences across the categories of socioeconomic status, duration of physical illness, and a number of organizations changed while comparing perceived social support and depression variables.

Conclusion:

Perceived social support influences older adults’ experience of loneliness and depression among inmates of old-age homes. Hence, there is a need to sensitize the staff working in old-age homes on caregiving skills for enabling the elderly to enjoy better-perceived social support and quality of life.
Patterns, barriers, and utilization of oral healthcare provided at primary health centers (PHCs) and its association with oral health status among rural population in Rohtak district, Haryana: A household cross-sectional study
Authors: Jadhav Sachin Kumar , Manjunath BC , Chauhan Neha , Akram Zainab
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Access to oral healthcare is limited in rural areas, resulting in disparities in oral health services. Primary health centers (PHCs) are essential for providing integrated oral healthcare to rural populations. This study examines the patterns, barriers, and utilization of oral healthcare at PHCs in Rohtak district, Haryana.

Materials and Methods:

In this 6-month household cross-sectional study, data were collected from a sample of 600 participants residing in rural areas under the jurisdiction of three randomly selected PHCs in Rohtak district. The study employed multistage cluster systematic random sampling procedures. Data collection included structured questionnaires and clinical oral examinations following the type-III ADA classification. Participants’ oral health status was evaluated using the WHO oral health assessment form for adults (2013). Descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis.

Results and Discussion:

Dental caries and periodontal diseases were more common in older age groups. Barriers to oral healthcare among the elderly include fear of dental procedures and low dental literacy. Proximity to PHCs influenced dental service utilization, with higher rates among participants living near a PHC, that is, within 5 km of a PHC.

Conclusion:

Age, gender, proximity to PHCs, household size, and socioeconomic status play crucial roles in the utilization of oral health services among the rural population. Addressing these factors is essential for improving oral healthcare and overcoming barriers. It is crucial to enhance the accessibility, affordability, and availability of oral health services at PHCs to promote better oral health and overall well-being in rural areas.
Adverse events following Covaxin administration among adolescents (15–18 years) – A pharmacovigilance study in a district in Northern India
Authors: Deb Tirthankar , Kaur Manmeet , Misra Saurav , Verma Neelam , Sindhu Nitika , Kairi Jayant
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The study was undertaken to observe the adverse event following immunization (AEFI) to the Covaxin vaccine in young adolescents in the age group of 15–18 years in a district in Northern India. The study was conducted to assess the safety profile of the COVAXIN vaccine.

Methodology:

This was a prospective observational study conducted at rural and urban health centers of a district in Northern India. We included the beneficiaries of the COVAXIN between the age of 15 and 18 years. The administration of the COVAXIN occurred in our district from January 2022. Periodic visits were conducted to the urban and rural health centers of the city to record any suspected adverse drug reaction following immunization in the defined population. The study was conducted for a period of 1 year (January 2022 to December 2022).

Results:

A total of 72,771 adolescents (15–18 years) received the first dose of Covaxin and 49,046 received the second dose. No adverse drug event following immunization was reported during the study.

Conclusion:

Thus, it can be concluded that Covaxin was found to be safe in adolescents (15–18 years).
Debunking the Dilemma: Is Cyberchondria Truly a Form of Hypochondria?
Authors: Charan Gopal Singh , Palawat Manisha Singh , Kalia Raman , Kaur Akashpreet , Kaur Hardeep
Published: April 2024

In today’s digital age, the Internet has become an integral part of our lives, providing a wealth of information at our fingertips. However, the ease of accessing medical information online has given rise to a new phenomenon known as cyberchondria (CCD). CCD is characterized by the excessive anxiety and worry caused by the information discovered on the internet, leading individuals to believe that they have a serious medical condition. Although it shares similarities with hypochondria or illness anxiety disorder, there is an ongoing debate about whether CCD should be regarded as a separate condition or simply a manifestation of preexisting hypochondria. Those who engage in self-diagnosis and self-management of their health concerns without confirming the accuracy of the published material are presumed to be affected by CCD. No research has yet been undertaken on CCD therapeutic approaches. Psychoeducation is the cornerstone of CCD therapy. There is no specific pharmaceutical therapy. CCD is a developing public mental health concern in India that needs prompt response or might seriously harm the general public.
A Cause of Refractory Seizures: Fumarase Deficiency
Authors: Yekedüz Merve Koç , Doğulu Neslihan , Öncül Ümmühan , Köse Engin , Ünal Özlem , Eminoğlu Fatma Tuba
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Fumarase is an enzyme involved in the Krebs cycle. Fumarase deficiency (FD) is an autosomal recessive disorder that is associated with neurocognitive dysfunctions. In the absence of fumarase, fumarate is accumulated and excreted in the urine. FD has been reported with polyhydramnios, intrauterine growth retardation, prematurity, hypotonia, seizure, facial anomalies, malnutrition, relative macrocephaly, and developmental retardation. Cranial imaging findings are enlargement of the ventricles, polymicrogyria, and thinning of the corpus callosum. Electroencephalogram findings are generally compatible with hypsarrhythmia. Treatment is generally supportive. Although protein-restricted diets have been tried, their benefits have not been proven. This report aimed to present a case with hypotonia, and refractory seizures were diagnosed at a very early age, and a summary of the cases is found in the literature.
Geographic Equity and Environmental Sustainability of Conference Models: Results of a Comparative Analysis
Authors: Whitfield Kate E. , Ares Pita Angela , Jarvis Thale C. , Weimen Shannon , Bousema Teun
Published: April 2024

We conducted a comparative analysis of in-person, virtual, and hybrid conferences on tuberculosis hosted by Keystone Symposia and examined the number of participants, their country of residence, carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e) produced, and participant impressions regarding scientific quality. Data were available from three in-person meetings, one virtual meeting, and one hybrid. The virtual conference hosted 2.5-fold more participants compared with the in-person conferences (842 versus an average of 328) from more than double the number of countries (68 versus an average of 33). The virtual conference attracted 4.5-fold more participants from countries with a high burden of tuberculosis, compared with the average in-person conference (209 versus an average of 46). For in-person meetings, an average of 79% of participants were based in high-income countries. For the virtual meeting, 53% of participants were from high-income countries, and 47% from low- and middle-income countries. For the hybrid conference, there were 465 participants from 43 countries, of which 289 attended in person from a total of 20 countries, and 176 participated virtually from 34 countries. Of those who took part in person, 91% were from high-income countries. The average CO2e emissions from an in-person conference was 696 tons of CO2e, with 96.0% from air travel. The virtual meeting produced 0.48 ton of CO2e from electricity usage, a 1,450-fold decrease compared with in-person events. Virtual conferences scored a content quality rating of 87.3% to 90.8% compared with a range of 86.4% to 92.2% for in-person conferences.