bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quando os paradigmas mudam na saúde pública: o que muda na história?
Authors: Mello Guilherme Arantes
Published: June 2017

Resumo Trata-se de ensaio conceitual sobre a ideia de ruptura paradigmática e sua implicação na leitura histórica da saúde pública/coletiva, campo em que se confundem as dimensões política e científica. Um argumento inicial serve para esclarecer o caráter polissêmico e pré-conceitual de “paradigma”, atento às implicações conceituais, mas reafirmando sua utilidade semântica. Segue com a discussão de rupturas essenciais e cumulativas, aplicada ao confronto da ruptura epistêmica promovida pelos centros de saúde distritais e idealização do movimento de reforma sanitária. Conclui pela dificuldade do paradigma “saúde coletiva” em sustentar sua independência discursiva, de modo que a difusão planetária da matriz discursiva dos centros de saúde pela Fundação Rockefeller ainda se configura como a última ruptura paradigmática holística da saúde pública brasileira.
Estudo das propriedades físicas e mecânicas de concreto com substituição parcial de agregado natural por agregado reciclado proveniente de RCD
Authors: Frotté Camila , Nubila Clarisse Sophia Alejandra Di , Nagalli André , Mazer Wellington , Macioski Gustavo , Oliveira Luna Ollin Steffen de
Published: June 2017

RESUMO A incorporação de resíduos de construção e demolição (RCD) como agregados em concretos requer bom conhecimento das propriedades dos materiais envolvidos. O objetivo da presente pesquisa foi caracterizar um produto específico de uma usina de reciclagem de RCD, a Usina de Recicláveis Sólidos Paraná (USIPAR), localizada em Almirante Tamandaré, PR, conhecido comercialmente como bica corrida. O agregado reciclado foi caracterizado quanto à sua granulometria e demais características físicas. A fração miúda do agregado reciclado foi escolhida para substituir o agregado natural. Demais características desta fração foram estudadas, como teor de material pulverulento, massa específica e absorção de água. Foram produzidos concretos com diferentes taxas de substituição (0%, 25%, 50%) de agregado natural por agregado reciclado. As propriedades do concreto foram então avaliadas e verificou-se que o aumento do teor de substituição de agregado natural por agregado reciclado reduziu a trabalhabilidade, a massa específica seca e saturada do concreto e o módulo de elasticidade, bem como aumentou a absorção e o índice de vazios. A massa específica real do concreto não foi influenciada pelo teor de substituição. Com relação às resistências à compressão e à tração, a substituição de agregado natural pelo agregado reciclado levou a um decréscimo na resistência do concreto. O concreto com 50% de teor de substituição obteve uma maior resistência à compressão axial que o concreto com teor de substituição de 25%, e mesma resistência à tração por compressão diametral que o concreto controle.
Comportamiento reológico del aluminio AA6061 por efecto de las transformaciones de fase activadas térmicamente
Authors: Ochoa-M José Luis
Published: June 2017

RESUMEN Las aleaciones de aluminio a la temperatura ambiente no experimentan comportamientos reológicos apreciables debido a su orden microestructural coherente y su alta compacidad. Sin embargo, el aumento de la temperatura genera campos de tensiones, y con ello deformaciones, que alteran el equilibrio microestructural, manifestándose el comportamiento reológico como consecuencia de la fricción interna. En las aleaciones de Al-Mg-Si la precipitación de fases provoca pérdida de coherencia produciendo fricción interna. Los objetivos de este trabajo fueron caracterizar e identificar las transformaciones microestructurales experimentadas en el aluminio AA6061 por efecto de la temperatura; estudiar la cinética no-isotérmica e isotérmica, a través de modelos atomísticos. Analizar el comportamiento reológico, manifestado en la deformación, y en la relajación de tensiones, considerando los postulados expresados por el Número de Deborah (De). El desarrollo experimental ha sido orientado y organizado a través de la resistividad eléctrica y la microscopía. Cuatro regiones de transformaciones fueron observadas: I: 20-190, II: 220-420, III: 420-520, IV: ≥ 525 °C; con energías de activación: E a I : 20 − 60, E a I I : 90 − 120, E a I I I : 400 − 470 kJ/mol; y conformadas de agregados de soluto y fases aciculares y cilíndricas, respectivamente. Se determinó que De ≤ 1, asociándose a un comportamiento viscoelástico. Se observó, entre 100 y 200 °C, que: 0,1 ≤ De ≤ 0,3, vinculándose a un considerable nivel de difusión, con tasa de nucleación máxima a 150 °C. Estas caracterizaciones ampliarán el entendimiento del fenómeno de difusión, los procesos de precipitación, deformación y relajación; para aplicaciones prácticas y desarrollos teóricos relacionados.
Importância da determinação do ponto de carga zero como característica de tingimento de fibras proteicas
Authors: Giacomni Fernando , Menegazzo Maira Amanda Benedet , Silva Márcia Gomes da , Silva Andreia Bortoluzzi da , Barros Maria Angélica Simões Dornellas de
Published: June 2017

RESUMO O ponto de carga zero é uma característica eletrocinética relacionada aos materiais anfóteros, como as fibras proteicas, cuja determinação e conhecimento é crucial para os processos de tingimento e acabamento das mesmas. Esta característica influencia na adsorção do corante do tipo ácido, principal classe de corante aplicado no tingimento das fibras de seda e lã. Durante o tingimento a carga iônica das fibras proteicas é dependente do pH do banho em que se encontram. No pH correspondente ao ponto de carga zero (pHPCZ), a fibra proteica possui carga neutra. Quando em presença de um banho cujo pH é inferior ao pHPCZ, a fibra fica carregada positivamente e pode, dessa forma, formar ligações iônicas com as moléculas de corante que estão carregados negativamente. Neste artigo, o pH correspondente ao ponto de carga zero foi determinado por um método denominando “experimento dos 11 pontos”. Este método necessita de um aparato experimental mais simples e acessível do que os métodos utilizados na determinação do ponto isoelétrico, uma outra característica eletrocinética correlata dos materiais anfóteros. Para a fibra de seda e lã, foram encontrados pHPCZ iguais a 3,8 e 6,3 respectivamente. Tingimentos com corante ácido foram realizados com valores de pH acima e abaixo do pHPCZ. As amostras tingidas em pH menor que o pHPCZ, apresentaram maior intensidade colorística, evidenciando a formação de ligações iônicas entre corante e fibra. Já as amostras tingidas em pH maior que o pHPCZ, pelo contrário, resultaram em menor intensidade colorística. Estes resultados comprovam a importância de se conhecer o ponto de carga zero das fibras proteicas e assim, determinar o melhor pH de tingimento das mesmas.
Caracterização de compósitos particulados de polietileno de alta densidade/pó de concha de molusco
Authors: Firmino Helen Cristina Torrano , Chagas Thais Fernandes das , Melo Patrícia Maria Alves de , Silva Lucineide Balbino da
Published: June 2017

RESUMO O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar as propriedades térmicas, mecânicas e termo dinâmico mecânicas de compósitos de polietileno de alta densidade (PEAD) com a incorporação do pó de conchas de moluscos (5, 10 e 20% em peso). A matriz pura e seus compósitos foram misturados em um misturador interno e em seguida moldados por compressão. A incorporação do pó de concha de molusco diminuiu o índice de fluidez do PEAD em uma faixa de 23 a 53%, já a cristalinidade da matriz praticamente não foi alterada. O pó da concha possui 97, 53% de CaO, tendo estrutura cristalina constituída por aragonita e calcita, ambos polimorfos do carbonato de cálcio. O estudo granulométrico mostrou que o pó da concha apresentou uma distribuição larga do tamanho das partículas, sendo também confirmada na análise da superfície de fratura dos compósitos por microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Os aspectos morfológicos mostram que nenhuma adesão foi observada entre as partículas e o PEAD. A adição da concha causou um aumento na rigidez da matriz e como também diminui a capacidade de amortecimento da matriz. A adição de 10% deslocou a temperatura de transição vítrea (Tg) do PEAD em 6 oC , enquanto o compósito com 20% do pó de concha não apresentou essa transição.
Prevalence and factors associated with human brucellosis in livestock professionals
Authors: Mufinda Franco Cazembe , Boinas Fernando , Nunes Carla
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE The objective of this study is to estimate the seroprevalence of human brucellosis in livestock professionals and analyze the factors associated with brucellosis focusing on sociodemographic variables and the variables of knowledge and practices related to the characteristics of the activities carried out in livestock. METHODS This is a cross-sectional seroepidemiological study with a population of 131 workers of butchers, slaughter rooms, and slaughterhouse and 192 breeders sampled randomly in Namibe province, Angola. The data were obtained from the collection of blood and use of questionnaires. The laboratory tests used were rose bengal and slow agglutination. The questionnaire allowed us to collect sociodemographic information and, specifically on brucellosis, it incorporated questions about knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of livestock professionals. In addition to the descriptive statistical approach, we used the Chi-square test of independence, Fisher’s test, and logistic regression models, using a significance level of 10%. RESULTS The general weighted prevalence of brucellosis was 15.6% (95%CI 13.61–17.50), being it 5.3% in workers and 16.7% (95%CI 11.39–21.93) in breeders. The statistical significance was observed between human seroprevalence and category (worker and breeder) (p < 0.001) and education level (p = 0.032), start of activity (p = 0079), and service location (p = 0.055). In a multivariate context, the positive factor associated with brucellosis in professionals was the professional category (OR = 3.54; 95%CI 1.57–8.30, related to breeders in relation to workers). CONCLUSIONS Human brucellosis in livestock professionals is prevalent in Namibe province (15.6%), where the professional category was the most important factor. The seroprevalence levels detected are high when compared with those found in similar studies.
Factors associated with access to physical rehabilitation for victims of traffic accidents
Authors: Sousa Kelienny de Meneses , Oliveira Wagner Ivan Fonsêca de , Alves Emanuel Augusto , Gama Zenewton André da Silva
Published: June 2017

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE Evaluate the level of access to physical rehabilitation for survivors of traffic accidents and the associated factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study performed in Natal, Northeastern Brazil, through a telephone survey of 155 victims of traffic accidents admitted to an emergency hospital between January and August of 2013, with a diagnosis of fracture, traumatic brain injury or amputation. Participants were identified in the database of the reference hospital for care of traffic accident victims. We calculated point estimates and confidence interval (95%CI) for the frequency of subjects who had access, in addition to multivariate analysis (logistic regression) between access (dependent variable) and sociodemographic, clinical, and assistance variables. RESULTS Among the 155 respondents, the majority were adolescents and adults between 15–29 years of age (47.7%), men (82.6%), education up to high school (92.3%), income of up to two minimum wages (78.0%) and bikers (75.5%). Although 85.8% of traffic accident survivors reported the need for physical rehabilitation, there was little access (51.6%; 95%CI 43.7–59.4) and a delay to start the physical rehabilitation (average = 67 days). We classified factors associated with access to physical rehabilitation as: (i) unmodifiable individuals in the short term – family income greater than two minimum wages (OR = 3.7), informal worker (OR = 0.11) or unemployed (OR = 0.15) and possession of a private health care plan (OR = 0.07); and (ii) assistance modifiable by service management – written referral for physical rehabilitation (OR = 27.5) and perceived need of physical rehabilitation (OR = 10). CONCLUSIONS This study found a low and slow access to physical rehabilitation for individuals potentially in need. The associated factors were the organizational processes of health care (health information and referral) and social determinants (income, occupation and private health care plan).
Child Labor Trafficking in the United States: A Hidden Crime
Authors: Kaufka Walts Katherine
Published: June 2017

Emerging research brings more attention to labor trafficking in the United States. However, very few efforts have been made to better understand or respond to labor trafficking of minors. Cases of children forced to work as domestic servants, in factories, restaurants, peddling candy or other goods, or on farms may not automatically elicit suspicion from an outside observer as compared to a child providing sexual services for money. In contrast to sex trafficking, labor trafficking is often tied to formal economies and industries, which often makes it more difficult to distinguish from "legitimate" work, including among adolescents. This article seeks to provide examples of documented cases of child labor trafficking in the United States, and to provide an overview of systemic gaps in law, policy, data collection, research, and practice. These areas are currently overwhelmingly focused on sex trafficking, which undermines the policy intentions of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (2000), the seminal statute criminalizing sex and labor trafficking in the United States, its subsequent reauthorizations, and international laws and protocols addressing human trafficking.
Species diversity of vaginal lactobacilli in norm and in dysbiotic states
Authors: Budilovskaya Olga V , Shipitsyna Elena V , Gerasimova Ekaterina N , Safronova Margarita M , Savicheva Alevtina M
Published: June 2017

Introduction. In healthy women of reproductive age, the vaginal microflora is represented mainly by lactobacilli. They provide a barrier function, preventing the propagation of opportunistic pathogens and the colonization of the vagina by pathogenic microorganisms. It is shown that the lactobacillary microflora of the vagina is very diverse, but not all species of lactobacilli can provide reliable protection of the female organism.

Objective: to characterize the species and quantitative composition of vaginal lactobacilli of women of reproductive age in norm and in dysbiosis.

Material and methods. The study involved 123 patients from polyclinic departments of the D.O. Ott Reasearch Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductology. For analysis of clinical material (vaginal discharge) for lactobacilli and other microorganisms, quantitative real-time PCR was used.

Results. The most common types of lactobacilli are Lactobacillus jensenii, L. Iners, L. crispatus, L. vaginalis and L. gasseri. Species diversity of lactobacilli (detection of ≥2 species) is observed much more often in women with physiological microbiocenosis than in women with vaginal dysbiosis. Our study confirms that L. crispatus is the dominant species of the vaginal biotope of healthy women, while in dysbiosis the species L. gasseri and L. Iners are most often identified.
Prostaglandin analogues: past, present, and future
Authors: Astakhov Yury S , Nechiporenko Pavel A
Published: June 2017

This literature review is focused on the prostaglandin topical analogues and describes peculiarities of their structure, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, results of clinical trials and meta-analyzes, as well as modern trends in the topical IOP-lowering glaucoma therapy evolution.
Modern surgical methods of ectropion treatment
Authors: Nuraeva Aygul B
Published: June 2017

This review is considering methods of ectropion surgical treatment, which are based on modern understanding of etiology and pathogenic mechanisms of this eyelid condition. Attention is driven both to monosurgical methods for mild ectropion correction and to combined methods in complicated cases. Special aspects of surgical approach to severe cicatricial ectropion are described.
Choroidal osteoma
Authors: Astakhov Yury S , Astakhov Sergey Yu , Potemkin Vitaly V , Marchenko Olga A , Belekhova Svetlana G , Ovnanyan Andronik Yu
Published: June 2017

This study describes the clinical features, methods of diagnosis, and treatment of a rare intraocular tumor, choroidal osteoma, based on our observation of three patients and a literature review.
Inhibition of free radical activity by dual PPAR α and PPAR γ agonist using analytical assay methods
Authors: A. E. Vijaya Kumar , M. Vinay , S. Seethalakshami
Published: June 2017

Background: Overproduction of free radicals involved in the pathology of a wide variety of clinical disorders. Poor glycaemic control in diabetic people leads to free radical production responsible for diabetic related complications. Antioxidants produces resistance against the oxidative stress by scavenging free radicals may useful in treating diabetic related complications. Saroglitazar is a newer antidiabetic drug act on dual Peroxisome Proliferator Receptor Agonist α (PPAR α) and PPAR γ agonist with protection effect on Diabetes mellitus induced lipid dystrophy. Our study was done to evaluate the in vitro antioxidant effect Saroglitazar by 1, 1 Diphenyl 2 Picryl hydrazide (DPPH) and Nitric Oxide (NO) method.Methods: In this study, we demonstrated invitro antioxidant activity by using 10 mg/dl stock solutions of Saroglitazar. DPPH and NO free radical scavenging test were done for different concentration of Saroglitazar.Results: Saroglitazar showed concentration dependent free radical scavenging activity in DPPH assay. In DPPH assay at higher concentration 1000ug concentration showed 49.18% free radical scavenging activity. At lower concentration 10ug showed 17.18% free radical scavenging activity. NO scavenging activity at lower concentration 100ug showed 55.15% activity. But the higher concentration (1000ug) only slight increase in 60.15% activity.Conclusions: Thus Saroglitazar invitro antioxidant analysis proved that it is a potent antioxidant.
Intracervical foleys catheter: Can it serve as an alternative to standard pharmacological method of cervical ripening?
Authors: Murthy Bhaskar K. , Murthy Mangala B. , Teje Rucha S.
Published: June 2017

Background: Ripening of cervix is a prerequisite for successful labour induction. Use of prostaglandins for this purpose incurs a high risk of uterine hyperstimulation and a relatively higher cost of treatment. intracervical Foleys catheter insertion is a mechanical method stated in literature. The present study was to compare the efficacy and safety and cost of intracervical Foleys catheter balloon insertion with intracervical dinoprostone application for preinduction cervical ripening in patients requiring labour induction at term.Methods: This was a randomized, parallel group, active controlled study conducted in the obstetrics department of a tertiary care centre over a duration of one year. Group A received Dinoprostone cervical gel 0.5mg instilled in the cervical canal. Maximum of three doses (1.5mg dinoprostone) could be administered 6 hours apart. Patients randomized to group B were subjected to Foleys catheter insertion. Foleys catheter number 16 was used and balloon was inflated with 60ml of water. Primary efficacy parameter was change in Bishops score as compared to baseline and safety was monitored by comparing the total number of adverse events in the two groups.Results: Total of 89 patients were enrolled into the study during one year period out of which 45 received dinoprostone gel and 44 received Foleys catheter insertion respectively. Change in Bishops score, mode of delivery and total number of maternal and foetal adverse events did not differ significantly between the two groups.Conclusions: Efficacy and safety of Foleys catheter as a cervical ripening agent prior to induction of labour is comparable to dinoprostone gel. Since use of Foleys catheter is advantageous in terms of lack of specific storage conditions and cost of treatment, it could be considered a cost effective alternative for preinduction cervical ripening.
Pattern of antimicrobial utilization in indoor ward of surgery department of a tertiary care teaching hospital of Southern Rajasthan, India
Authors: Chhipa Vinod Kumar , Atray Meena
Published: June 2017

Background: Drug utilization studies are conducted to analyze prescription pattern, facilitate rational prescribing and improve the outcome. Antibiotics are frequently prescribed drugs in surgery department both by oral and parenteral route. Irrational prescribing of antibiotics is responsible for emergence of drug resistance in pathogens which is a global problem now a days.Methods: 225 patients admitted in surgical indoor were included in the study and data collected was evaluated as per WHO quality indicators.Results: Ceftriaxone was maximally utilized antimicrobial (%), average number of antimicrobial prescribed was 2.73±1.08. Average duration of hospitalization was 10.32 days. Costliest antimicrobial prescribed was meropenum and with minimum cost was Clarithromycin. Cost per patient was Rs.72.6. PDD/DDD ratio of Amoxicillin+Clavulanic acid was maximum. 24% of patients were receiving complementary and alternative medicines.Conclusions: The drugs were prescribed from the essential drug list with generic names in appropriate dose and duration. The need of Culture and sensitivity test for selecting antimicrobials was identified in the study. The study can be further expanded by including patients of vulnerable groups and private sector and evaluation of effect of self medication on outcome.
A Study of awareness, attitude and practice of pharmacovigilance among health care professionals in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Bareilly, India
Authors: Singh Krishna , Sayedda Kauser , Bhardwaj Richa , Yadav Neha , Ahmed Quazi Shahir
Published: June 2017

Background: Awareness towards Pharmacovigilance among health professionals in any hospital is an important part of health care system. So, the present study was conducted to know the extent of awareness of Pharmacovigilance among health care professionals.Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire based study about knowledge, attitude and practices towards adverse drugs reaction (ADRs) and Pharmacovigilance was carried out at Shri Ram Murti Smarak Institue of Medical Sciences, Bareilly (U.P). 153 questionnaires were distributed among the Post graduate students, faculties, interns, nurses and pharmacists. 2-3 days time was given to fill the questionnaire.Results: Out of 153 questionnaires distributed, 99 filled forms were turned up for evaluation. Hence, response rate was 64.70%. 73.33% PGs, 100% faculty members, 53.33% interns, 36% nurses and 18.75% pharmacists were aware of adverse drugs reactions (ADRs) and Pharmacovigilance. Regarding reporting of ADRs, 86.66% PGs, 91.66% faculties, 73.33% interns, 88% nurses and 81.25% pharmacists were agreed to report ADR as it is mandatory and related to increased patients’ safety. Regarding discouraging factors for practice of reporting ADRs, 20% PGs, 16.66% faculties, 80% interns, 40% nurses and 68.75% pharmacists found ADR forms difficult to be filled. According to 66% faculties, 80% PGs, 66.66% interns managing patients are more important than reporting ADRs while 93.75% nurses and 76% pharmacists did not know how to report and where to report.Conclusions: The results of our study indicate that the acceptable number of health-care professionals had a good knowledge and attitude towards pharmacovigilance. There was a huge gap between the ADR experienced, and ADR reported by the health-care professionals. So, there is need of conductance of CMEs, workshops and seminars related to pharmacovigilance for all heaith care professionals especially nurses and pharmacists so, that whole community can be benefitted.
Food colouring additives in selected confectioneries in Khartoum state, Sudan
Authors: Ali Elrasheed Abdalla , Abdalla Walaa Abdalateef , Mohamed Mohanad Hassan
Published: June 2017

Background: The natural food colours extracted from plants are used to dye different foods do not change their properties when they are used. Therefore, most synthetic coloured additives are carcinogenic, teratogenic and cause impairment of vision, tooth decay. The aim of the study was to determine food colouring additives in confectioneries.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was designed and confectioneries samples include Cane, Ice-cream and Lollipop was randomly collected from venders around schools, transport stations and other places in Khartoum state through (May - June / 2014). E-number and types of colouring agents was carried by using planar chromatography technique and questionnaire data were analyzed using (SPSS) software.Results: The majority of participants 80.8% know that food colouring additives are harmful. The food colouring additives can cause cancer 32.6%, intestinal pain 9.8%, allergy 9.1% and hyperactivity 3.3%. Most food colouring agents were bought from local source 65.7% while 34.3% was imported. About 69.5% of the participants determined the quantity of food colouring agents according to the degree of the colour they required while 30.5% determined according to the weight of food stuff, and 76.2% mentioned that they usually do not abide to written dates on the pack of the food colouring additive and 60% of the samples contain the permitted synthetic food colouring additives.Conclusions: The majority of participants knew that food colouring additives are harmful, all confectioneries samples contained synthetic food colouring additives that have adverse effect on human health, strict preventive measures and health education are highly recommended.
Health status of Lebanese university students
Authors: Helou Mariana , Sakr Rania , Tanios Alain
Published: June 2017

Background: In order to assess the health status of the students in Lebanese Universities, an epidemiological study was conducted in 3 Lebanese universities during the year 2014-2015.Methods: A standard anonymous questionnaire was distributed in 3 universities in Lebanon; questions were related to socio demographic characteristics, hygiene and lifestyle, social and behavioral life, and diseases.Results: We have collected 500 questionnaires, with a majority of females. Health status was perceived to be good or very good by most of the respondents. This was seen in the group with better sleeping hours. Most of the students were normally to extremely attentive to their hygiene, these students were found to be living at their parents’ house, and have been at least once this year for a medical check-up. Female sex and academic year differences were found related for stress perception and emotional reactions.Conclusions: This study presents some results that are fairly consistent with other foreign surveys. More research is needed to better evaluate the health determents of the students in order to recommend adequate preventive measures and consider generalization of the results to all the students in the Lebanese universities.
Urinary iodine excretion in urine samples among children in Dang district, Gujarat
Authors: Damor Rahul , Chhaya Jatin , Gamit Sukesha , Patel Jayant , Kosambiya J. K.
Published: June 2017

Background: Iodine is an essential micronutrient required for normal human growth and development as it is needed for the synthesis of thyroid hormones produced by thyroid glands. The sicknesses occurred due to deficiencies of iodine in the nutrition are termed iodine deficiency disorders. Urinary iodine concentration is the prime indicator of a person’s nutritional iodine status. So, the aim of this study was to assess the status of iodine deficiency based on median urinary iodine excretion.Methods: Community based cross sectional study was carried out among purposively selected primary schools of the Dang district. All students between the age group of 6 to 12 years who were present on the day of visit were included in the study. A total 387 urine samples were collected during the period of August 2015 to September 2016.Results: Based on median urinary iodine excretion, among total analysed samples, about 6.5% samples confirmed severe iodine deficiency, 22% samples showed moderate iodine deficiency and about 36% samples indicated mild iodine deficiency. About one third (31.3%) samples suggested optimum iodine intake. Only few samples (4.4%) revealed more than required iodine intake.Conclusions: About one third (31.3%) of the surveyed population had adequate iodine intake while majority (64.4%) of them had inadequate iodine intake.
A study of menstrual hygiene and related personal hygiene practices among adolescent girls in rural Puducherry
Authors: Priya S. Hema , Nandi Partha , N. Seetharaman , M. R. Ramya , N. Nishanthini , A. Lokeshmaran
Published: June 2017

Background: Adolescent population occupies 1/5th of world’s population and in India 20.9% of the population falls into this age group. Social prohibitions and traditional beliefs blocked the access to get the right kind of information to adolescent girls that led to poor hygiene practices. These practices results in harbouring of micro-organisms that increases susceptibility to genito-urinary infections. Hence this study was conducted to study the menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls and in rural Puducherry.Objectives: To study the menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls in rural Puducherry.Methodology: A community based descriptive cross sectional study was conducted in rural field practicing area of MGMCRI, Puducherry, from 15th of March 2013 to 31st April 2014 by using semi-structured questionnaire. 528 adolescent girls were included by complete enumeration.Results: Majority (89.2%) of the adolescent girls was using sanitary pads, fresh and reusable cloths were used by 6.6% and 4.2%, respectively.  65.3% girls changed their soaked absorbent 2-5 times in a day. Majority (60.8%) of the girls disposed their used absorbent by burying or burning. 67.9% girls were washing genitalia during micturition. 54.4% used soap and water for hand cleaning purpose and 1.4% used ash & mud etc.Conclusions: Even though sanitary pad users were high, unhygienic practices were noticed, so more emphasize is needed to be given on awareness of menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls.Key words: Adolescent girls, menstrual health and hygiene, sanitary pads, genito-urinary illness.
Prevalence of underweight among preschool children attending anganwadi in Kannur district, Kerala, India
Authors: S. S. Anitha , Jayasree A. K. , Antherjanam S. Devaki
Published: June 2017

Background: Child malnutrition is an important indicator of the nutritional and health status of a country. Preschool children call for focused attention in India because India has the highest percentage of undernourished children in the world. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of underweight among preschool children attending Anganwadi centers (AWC) in Kannur district, Kerala.Methods: Cross-sectional study done during July 2013- June 2014 among pre-school children (3-6 years) attending 44 AWC spread over eleven revenue blocks in the district. AWC were selected using multistage random sampling technique. Body weight of the children were measured and compared with WHO Growth standards. Mothers were interviewed using a pilot-tested semi-structured questionnaire. Data was entered in EpiData version 3.1 and analysis was done using the SPSS version 12.Results: The total number of 3-6 year old children included in the study was 456. The prevalence of underweight in the study population was found to be 17.3%. In this study, nutritional status of the child was found to have significant association (p<0.05) with the child’s birth weight and maternal educational status.Conclusions: Maternal educational status has a major role in prevention of underweight among preschool children. Child’s birth weight also influences their nutritional status.
Maternal biosocial factors influencing new born birth weight at a municipal corporation maternity home in Bangalore city
Authors: Konapur Kavita S. , Srikanth Jayanthi
Published: June 2017

Background: Birth weight of new born is known to be influenced by several maternal biosocial factors. The study was undertaken to find association of various maternal biosocial factors influencing birth weight of the new born.Methods: The study subjects were 150 postnatal women and their new born delivered in an Urban Municipal Corporation Maternity Home. Study subjects were chosen by purposive sampling. Socio demographic and pregnancy related information was collected by interview method and from antenatal records.Results: The proportion of low birth weight noted was 8.6%. Statistically significant association was noted between new born birth weight and maternal health status during pregnancy which includes weight gain during pregnancy, intake of iron and folic tablets and antenatal check-up. Maternal haemoglobin levels had a positive correlation with new born birth weight.Conclusions: Maternal health is vital for new born wellbeing. Birth weight of new born has shown steady improvement over a period of time and this is as a result of availability of better maternal health care services in urban corporation maternity home.
Prevalence and pattern of internet addiction among medical students in Nagpur, Maharashtra
Authors: Patil Sneha D. , Deshmukh Jyotsna S. , Dagdiya Ketan R.
Published: June 2017

Background: Internet has become an integral part of our life and internet addiction is a growing problem affecting many spheres of our lives. Considering the potential negative effects of internet addiction on health this study aims to study the prevalence and pattern of Internet addiction among medical students by using Internet Addiction Test in Nagpur.Methods: The cross‑sectional study was conducted in 488 medical students in year 2016. Data was collected by using semi structured proforma including socio-demographic variables and Young’s 20-item Internet Addiction Test (IAT) questionnaire. Statistical analysis done by Epi info 7.1 and SPSS (20).Results: Prevalence of internet addiction by using Young’s original criteria was 3.68%. Internet addiction was significantly more common in males than females (p<0.05). This study reveals that according to IAT score, (61.47%) were average users, (34.83%) were possible addicts and (3.68%) were addicts. Chi square test is applied between average users and addicts, was found to be statistically significant (p<0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in the mean of total IAT scores between male and female students (p=0.27) and F statistics is applied between mean value of three groups (i.e. Average users, Possible addict and addict) was found to be statistically significant (<0.0001).Conclusions: Prevalence of internet addiction was 3.68% with male predominance indicate that internet addiction is growing problem. Prevalence of possible addict was also alarming which was 34.83%. Early recognition of internet addiction and appropriate preventive measures should be taken.
Bi-directional screening of tuberculosis patients for type 2 diabetes mellitus and diabetes patients for tuberculosis in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Authors: Das Shritam , Das Elina , Bhuyan Kashyap , Prusty Biswajita , Barik Minaketan , Yadav V. S. , Hussain Tahziba
Published: June 2017

Background: The aim of the study was to assess the feasibility and results of screening diabetes mellitus (DM) patients for tuberculosis (TB) and TB patients for DM within the routine health care settings. Methods: Prospective observational study was carried out within the Diabetes Centre and TB division from June, 2014 to June, 2016. The screening for active TB in DM and DM in TB patients is followed as per the guidelines of the revised national tuberculosis control programme and national programmes in India. Results: 350 patients with active TB disease were screened for diabetes during the study period. Among the TB patients, 28% patients were having pre-diabetes and 17% patients were having diabetes. Both the conditions, pre-Diabetes or diabetes, were more common among males, married patients, advancing age, having less education, no specific job, sedentary life style, smoking / drinking, living in crowded areas, poor living conditions as well as unhygienic environment. 350 patients with diabetes were screened for TB in which 8 (2.2%) patients found to have TB. The various socio-demographic factors appeared to be significant factors. RBG levels, cholesterol and triglycerides were raised among most of the diabetes patients. Age, male gender and Cat-I status appeared to be significant factors among patients having both conditions The incidence of TB among T2DM patients is less than that reported from other regions. Conclusions: Bi-directional screening of TB patients for DM and DM patients for active TB leads to earlier detection of DM as well as TB, better TB-specific treatment, favourable outcome for TB as well as DM and prevention of DM complications. This study is the first of its kind in this State.
Knowledge of needle sticks injuries and its prevention among interns and post graduate students working at a tertiary health care centre, Bangalore
Authors: Vijay Christy , Joe Allen , Ramesh Naveen
Published: June 2017

Background: Health care workers (HCW) especially doctors and nurses are at an increased risk of accidental needle stick injuries (NSI) due to the occupational environment in which they work. Hence the HCWs are at a higher risk of acquiring blood borne pathogens such as HIV, hepatitis B and C and other diseases. This study was done to assess knowledge regarding NSI and practice regarding disposal of needles and sharps among interns and postgraduate students.Methods: This study was a cross-sectional study done among 110 interns and postgraduates medical students working in various departments of a tertiary health care centre in Bangalore. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data regarding knowledge, practices and preventive measures among HCWs in their work place.Results: Among the 110, 55 (50%) were from intern category and 55 (50%) were from the postgraduate category and 47 (42.7%) were male and 63 (57.3%) were female students. The prevalence of NSI was found to be 36.3%. Female participants and post graduates had better knowledge. Female participants and interns had better practice.Conclusions: The Knowledge among the medical students (interns and postgraduates) was inadequate, indicating the need for awareness programs to reduce the burden of NSI among HCWs.
Effectiveness of behaviour change communication for preventing tobacco use among high school children in rural area, Bengaluru
Authors: Rajeshwari Swetha , S. Hemavarneshwari , P. Sathyanarayana
Published: June 2017

Background: Adolescents in high school are vulnerable to various health risk behaviors. One of it is tobacco use which is the leading cause of death and disease worldwide today. Educational programs applied in schools can have immense potential in promoting healthy behaviours and help them to refrain from risky behaviours among school going adolescents. The objectives of the study were to assess the prevalence of tobacco use among high school students in the rural field practice area of Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru and to evaluate the effectiveness of behavior change communication using life skills education on tobacco use initiation and cessation of use among high school childrenMethods: An interventional study was conducted in a randomly selected rural high school. A total of 454 students studying in 8th 9th and 10th standard participated in the study. Pretested semi structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Intervention was given in the form of life skills education with interactive sessions involving debates, group discussions, role plays, situational analysis on prevention of tobacco use. Follow up was done at intervals of 1 month, 3months, and 6 months to assess the change in tobacco use prevalence using a questionnaire.Results: Over all, prevalence of tobacco use was 69 (15.2%) with 50 (11%) being male and 19(4.2%) female students. Prevalence of tobacco use reduced from 69 (15.2%) during pre-intervention to 58 (12.9%), 39 (8.7%), and 33 (7.3%) by the end of one month, three months and six months respectively after the intervention.Conclusions: There is lack of awareness regarding dog bite and its management among the rural population.
A study on knowledge regarding first aid among undergraduate medical students
Authors: Gore Chaitali A. , Sankar Sruthi , Sheriff Shabnam , Anand Swetha , L. Smrithika , Maiya Swathi
Published: June 2017

Background: Life is characterized by precarious twists and turns and risky conditions that emerge all the time. First aid is the immediate action taken to save a life and reduce the effects of injury and illness until medical help is obtained. This study aims at assessing the knowledge regarding first aid among undergraduate medical students and comparing the knowledge among different terms. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done among 150 undergraduate medical students of Vydehi Medical College, Bangalore. A questionnaire with 15 questions regarding the awareness and skills involved in first aid were used to assess the levels of awareness among undergraduate medical students. Data was entered in Microsoft Excel Sheet. Analysis was done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21. Data was analysed using percentages and Chi-square test. Results: A total of 150 medical students filled the questionnaire, 50 each from 5th (2nd year), 7th (3rd year) and 9th terms (4th year). The overall scores were, 43 out of 150 students had excellent knowledge, 71 out of 150 needed improvement, 35 out of 150 had adequate knowledge and only 1 out of 150 had poor knowledge about First-Aid. The association between terms and level of knowledge was found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: First Aid knowledge among medical students needs improvement. Level of knowledge improved with increasing term but this was not sufficient and more training should be given to all medical students on first aid and basic life support.
An interventional study to assess the effectiveness of ‘WhatsApp’ as a teaching learning tool in community medicine
Authors: Dyavarishetty Padmavathi V. , Patil Dipak C.
Published: June 2017

Background:Undergraduate medical students, perceive the subject of Community Medicine as irrelevant to their role as physician and majority of the students dislike the subject and consider it as dull and boring. The present research study aims to study the effectiveness of ‘WhatsApp’ as medium of teaching complementing the traditional teaching to enhance the knowledge and skills of the undergraduate medical students using case based learning.Methods:Before and after comparison Interventional study design amongst 49 sixth semenster students conducted over a period of six months in a private medical college. Implementation of the study divided into three phases – preparatory, intervention and evaluation phase.Results:The improvement in average marks scored for epidemiology module was 1.97 and that for diabetes module was 5.38 which were statistically significant. The participation rate for the various modules ranged from as low as 10.2% to 73.5%. About 90% students perceived ‘WhatsApp’ as an effective tool for teaching-learning; a tool that stimulates and encourages learning.Conclusions:There was a significant improvement in knowledge amongst the students. Though perceived as an effective tool for learning by the students, participation rate in online discussion was poor over the course of implementation.
Profile of animal bite cases at immune prophylaxis clinic, tertiary care centre
Authors: Bhise Jyoti Dattaramji , Bhise Swati Dattaramji
Published: June 2017

Background: Animal bite, one of the common causes of physical injuries in spite of a long standing nature of the dog bite problem and the presence of effective intervention strategies for rabies control, it continues to pose a major public health challenge to program planners. So the present study is conducted to study Profile of animal-bite cases at immuno-prophylaxis clinic, at tertiary care centre.Methods: The present study was an observational cross-sectional study carried out at immune prophylaxis clinic of tertiary care centre, from 1st January 2013 to 31st December, 2013. All the registered cases of animal bite attending immune-prophylaxis clinic, which are ready to participate in the study were included as study population. The method used was systematic random sampling. First case was selected randomly using lottery method and then every fifth case reporting to immune prophylaxis clinic was taken in the study group. Total 3504 cases of animal bite were reported during the study period. 20% of these i.e. 700 cases of animal bite were included in the study.Results: Out of 700 study subjects, highest number of bites occurred in the age group 21-30 years i.e. 155 (22.1%). Maximum study subjects 471 (67.3%) were from urban area and 53% of bites occurred during daytime. Maximum cases were the class-III bite i.e. 600 (85.7%).Conclusions: Maximum number of bites seen among 21-30 years of age group predominantly seen among male study subjects. 49.6% study subjects were bitten by pet animals and 47.6% were bitten by stray animals. Dog was the principle animal responsible for the bite of study subjects. 85.7% of study subjects were of class III bite among them 75% study subjects had reported to hospitals within 24 hours. Severe the degree of exposure, earlier was reporting to the hospital was statistically significant.
Analysis of functional outcome of anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction using quadruple hamstring graft
Authors: Chodavarapu Lalith Mohan , K. S. Asif Hussain , Kiran Kumar K. K. , Patnala Chandrasekhar , Yadoji Harikrishna
Published: June 2017

Background: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction is the most commonly reconstructed ligaments of the knee. This study attempts to analyse the functional outcome of ACL reconstruction and the parameters utilized commonly to assess the outcomes.

Methods: This is an analysis of 25 patients who underwent ACL reconstruction, who were operated by a single surgeon, and were studied for a period of one year .Analysis was made using standard scoring systems like Lysholm and IKDC score by an independent observer over a period of one year.

Results: The injury was commonly noted in the male gender although the sidedness of the injury did not seem to influence the outcome. The larger percentage of cases was operated less than 6 months from the date of injury. The mean graft diameter was 7.9 mm, with a positive correlation to the thickness of the thigh. The preoperative mean Lysholm score of 58.76 improved to 91.16 after surgery. The mean preoperative IKDC score improved from 29.26 to 58.70. One patient had infection and two had stiffness and reduced range of motion. The timing of surgery and rehabilitation influence the outcome largely.

Conclusions: Anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery with quadrupled hamstring grafts provides a good outcome to ACL injuries when the surgery is timed well, with sufficient graft thickness and good rehabilitation.