bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experiences of Wearable Technology by Persons with Knee Osteoarthritis Participating in a Physical Activity Counseling Intervention: Qualitative Study Using a Relational Ethics Lens
Authors: Leese Jenny , MacDonald Graham , Backman Catherine L , Townsend Anne , Nimmon Laura , Li Linda C
Published: September 2021

Background

Current evidence indicates physical activity wearables could support persons with knee osteoarthritis (OA) to be more physically active. However, recent evidence also identifies some persons with arthritis experience guilt or worry while using a wearable if they are not as active as they feel they should be. Questions remain around how persons with knee OA experience benefits or downsides using a wearable in their everyday lives. Better understanding is needed if wearables are to be incorporated in arthritis self-management in ethically aware ways.

Objective

Using an ethics lens, we aimed to describe a range of experiences from persons with knee OA who used a wearable during a physical activity counseling intervention study.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis of qualitative interviews nested within a randomized controlled trial. Guided by phenomenography, we explored the experiences of persons with knee OA following participation in a physical activity counseling intervention that involved using a Fitbit Flex and biweekly phone calls with a study physiotherapist (PT) in an 8-week period. Benefits or downsides experienced in participants’ relationships with themselves or the study PT when using the wearable were identified using a relational ethics lens.

Results

Interviews with 21 participants (12 females and 9 males) aged 40 to 82 years were analyzed. Education levels ranged from high school graduates (4/21, 19%) to bachelor’s degrees or above (11/21, 52%). We identified 3 categories of description: (1) participants experienced their wearable as a motivating or nagging influence to be more active, depending on how freely they were able to make autonomous choices about physical activity in their everyday lives; (2) some participants felt a sense of accomplishment from seeing progress in their wearable data, which fueled their motivation; (3) for some participants, sharing wearable data helped to build mutual trust in their relationship with the study PT. However, they also expressed there was potential for sharing wearable data to undermine this trust, particularly if this data was inaccurate.

Conclusions

Findings provide an early glimpse into positive and negative emotional impacts of using a wearable that can be experienced by participants with knee OA when participating in a randomized controlled trial to support physical activity. To our knowledge, this is the first qualitative study that uses a relational ethics lens to explore how persons with arthritis experienced changes in their relationship with a health professional when using a wearable during research participation.
Cocreation of Massive Open Online Courses to Improve Digital Health Literacy in Diabetes: Pilot Mixed Methods Study
Authors: Alvarez-Perez Yolanda , Perestelo-Perez Lilisbeth , Rivero-Santana Amado , Wagner Ana M , Torres-Castaño Alezandra , Toledo-Chávarri Ana , Duarte-Díaz Andrea , Alvarado-Martel Dácil , Piccini Barbara , Van den Broucke Stephan , Vandenbosch Jessica , González-González Carina , Perello Michelle , Serrano-Aguilar Pedro ,   IC-Health Project Consortium
Published: September 2021

Background

Self-management education is a fundamental aspect in the health care of people with diabetes to develop the necessary skills for the improvement of health outcomes. Patients are required to have the competencies to manage electronic information resources—that is, an appropriate level of digital health literacy. The European project IC-Health aimed to improve digital health literacy among people with diabetes through the cocreation of massive open online courses (MOOCs).

Objective

We report the preliminary results obtained in 3 participating countries in the IC-Health project (Italy, Spain, and Sweden) regarding (1) experience of the participants during the cocreation process of MOOCs, (2) perceived changes in their digital health literacy level after using MOOCs, and (3) a preliminary assessment of the acceptability of MOOCs.

Methods

The cocreation of the MOOCs included focus groups with adults and adolescents with diabetes and the creation of independent communities of practice for type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes participants aimed to co-design the MOOCs. Quantitative measures of the acceptability of MOOCs, experience in the cocreation process, and increase in digital health literacy (dimensions of finding, understanding, and appraisal) were assessed.

Results

A total of 28 participants with diabetes participated in focus groups. Adults and adolescents agreed that the internet is a secondary source of health-related information. A total of 149 participants comprised the diabetes communities of practice. A total of 9 MOOCs were developed. Acceptability of the MOOCs and the cocreation experience were positively valued. There was a significant improvement in digital health literacy in both adults and adolescents after using MOOCs (P<.001).

Conclusions

Although the results presented on self-perceived digital health literacy are preliminary and exploratory, this pilot study suggests that IC-Health MOOCs represent a promising tool for the medical care of diabetes, being able to help reduce the limitations associated with low digital health literacy and other communication barriers in the diabetes population.
Using Instagram to Enhance a Hematology and Oncology Teaching Module During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Koenig Julia Felicitas Leni , Buentzel Judith , Jung Wolfram , Truemper Lorenz , Wurm-Kuczera Rebecca Isabel
Published: September 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated the rapid expansion of novel tools for digital medical education. At our university medical center, an Instagram account was developed as a tool for medical education and used for the first time as a supplement to the hematology and medical oncology teaching module of 2020/2021.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the acceptance and role of Instagram as a novel teaching format in the education of medical students in hematology and medical oncology in the German medical curriculum.

Methods

To investigate the role of Instagram in student education of hematology and medical oncology, an Instagram account was developed as a tie-in for the teaching module of 2020/21. The account was launched at the beginning of the teaching module, and 43 posts were added over the 47 days of the teaching module (at least 1 post per day). Five categories for the post content were established: (1) engagement, (2) self-awareness, (3) everyday clinical life combined with teaching aids, (4) teaching aids, and (5) scientific resources. Student interaction with the posts was measured based on overall subscription, “likes,” comments, and polls. Approval to conduct this retrospective study was obtained from the local ethics commission of the University Medical Center Goettingen.

Results

Of 164 medical students, 119 (72.6%) subscribed to the Instagram account, showing high acceptance and interest in the use of Instagram for medical education. The 43 posts generated 325 interactions. The highest number of interactions was observed for the category of engagement (mean 15.17 interactions, SD 5.01), followed by self-awareness (mean 14 interactions, SD 7.79). With an average of 7.3 likes per post, overall interaction was relatively low. However, although the category of scientific resources garnered the fewest likes (mean 1.86, SD 1.81), 66% (27/41) of the student participants who answered the related Instagram poll question were interested in studies and reviews, suggesting that although likes aid the estimation of a general trend of interest, there are facets to interest that cannot be represented by likes. Interaction significantly differed between posting categories (P<.001, Welch analysis of variance). Comparing the first category (engagement) with categories 3 to 5 showed a significant difference (Student t test with the Welch correction; category 1 vs 3, P=.01; category 1 vs 4, P=.01; category 1 vs 5, P=.001).

Conclusions

Instagram showed high acceptance among medical students participating in the hematology and oncology teaching curriculum. Students were most interested in posts on routine clinical life, self-care topics, and memory aids. More studies need to be conducted to comprehend the use of Instagram in medical education and to define the role Instagram will play in the future. Furthermore, evaluation guidelines and tools need to be developed.
The Relationship Between Weight Loss Outcomes and Engagement in a Mobile Behavioral Change Intervention: Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Carey Alissa , Yang Qiuchen , DeLuca Laura , Toro-Ramos Tatiana , Kim Youngin , Michaelides Andreas
Published: September 2021

Background

There is large variance in weight loss outcomes of digital behavior change interventions (DBCIs). It has been suggested that different patterns of engagement in the program could be responsible for this variance in outcomes. Previous studies have found that the amount of engagement on DBCIs, such as the number of meals logged or articles read, is positively associated with weight loss.

Objective

This retrospective study extends previous research by observing how important weight loss outcomes (high weight loss: 10% or greater body weight loss; moderate weight loss: between 5% to 10%; stable weight: 0 plus or minus 1%) are associated with engagement on a publicly available mobile DBCI (Noom) from 9 to 52 weeks.

Methods

Engagement and weight data for eligible participants (N=11,252) were extracted from the Noom database. Engagement measures included the number of articles read, meals logged, steps recorded, messages to coach, exercise logged, weigh-ins, and days with 1 meal logged per week. Weight was self-reported on the program. Multiple linear regressions examined how weight loss outcome (moderate and high vs stable) was associated with each engagement measure across 3 study time periods: 9-16 weeks, 17-32 weeks, and 33-52 weeks.

Results

At 9-16 weeks, among the 11,252 participants, 2594 (23.05%) had stable weight, 6440 (57.23%) had moderate weight loss, and 2218 (19.71%) had high weight loss. By 33-52 weeks, 525 (18.21%) had stable weight, 1214 (42.11%) had moderate weight loss, and 1144 (39.68%) had high weight loss. Regression results showed that moderate weight loss and high weight loss outcomes were associated with all engagement measures to a significantly greater degree than was stable weight (all P values <.001). These differences held across all time periods with the exception of exercise for the moderate weight loss category at 1 time period of 33-52 weeks. Exercise logging increased from 9 to 52 weeks regardless of the weight loss group.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that these clinically important weight loss outcomes are related to the number of articles read, meals logged, steps recorded, messages to coach, exercise logged, weigh-ins, and days with 1 meal logged per week both in the short-term and long-term (ie, 1 year) on Noom. This provides valuable data on engagement patterns over time on a self-directed mobile DBCI, can help inform how interventions tailor recommendations for engagement depending on how much weight individuals have lost, and raises important questions for future research on engagement in DBCIs.
Usability Evaluation of an Offline Electronic Data Capture App in a Prospective Multicenter Dementia Registry (digiDEM Bayern): Mixed Method Study
Authors: Reichold Michael , Heß Miriam , Kolominsky-Rabas Peter , Gräßel Elmar , Prokosch Hans-Ulrich
Published: September 2021

Background

Digital registries have been shown to provide an efficient way of gaining a better understanding of the clinical complexity and long-term progression of diseases. The paperless method of electronic data capture (EDC) during a patient interview saves both time and resources. In the prospective multicenter project “Digital Dementia Registry Bavaria (digiDEM Bayern),” interviews are also performed on site in rural areas with unreliable internet connectivity. It must be ensured that EDC can still be performed in such a context and that there is no need to fall back on paper-based questionnaires. In addition to a web-based data collection solution, the EDC system REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture) offers the option to collect data offline via an app and to synchronize it afterward.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usability of the REDCap app as an offline EDC option for a lay user group and to examine the necessary technology acceptance of using mobile devices for data collection. The feasibility of the app-based offline data collection in the digiDEM Bayern dementia registry project was then evaluated before going live.

Methods

An exploratory mixed method design was employed in the form of an on-site usability test with the “Thinking Aloud” method combined with an online questionnaire including the System Usability Scale (SUS). The acceptance of mobile devices for data collection was surveyed based on five categories of the technology acceptance model.

Results

Using the “Thinking Aloud” method, usability issues were identified and solutions were accordingly derived. Evaluation of the REDCap app resulted in a SUS score of 74, which represents “good” usability. After evaluating the technology acceptance questionnaire, it can be concluded that the lay user group is open to mobile devices as interview tools.

Conclusions

The usability evaluation results show that a lay user group generally agree that data collecting partners in the digiDEM project can handle the REDCap app well. The usability evaluation provided statements about positive aspects and could also identify usability issues relating to the REDCap app. In addition, the current technology acceptance in the sample showed that heterogeneous groups of different ages with diverse experiences in handling mobile devices are also ready for the use of app-based EDC systems. Based on these results, it can be assumed that the offline use of an app-based EDC system on mobile devices is a viable solution for collecting data in a decentralized registry–based research project.
Harnessing the Electronic Health Record and Computerized Provider Order Entry Data for Resource Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Development of a Decision Tree
Authors: Luu Hung S , Filkins Laura M , Park Jason Y , Rakheja Dinesh , Tweed Jefferson , Menzies Christopher , Wang Vincent J , Mittal Vineeta , Lehmann Christoph U , Sebert Michael E
Published: September 2021

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in shortages of diagnostic tests, personal protective equipment, hospital beds, and other critical resources.

Objective

We sought to improve the management of scarce resources by leveraging electronic health record (EHR) functionality, computerized provider order entry, clinical decision support (CDS), and data analytics.

Methods

Due to the complex eligibility criteria for COVID-19 tests and the EHR implementation–related challenges of ordering these tests, care providers have faced obstacles in selecting the appropriate test modality. As test choice is dependent upon specific patient criteria, we built a decision tree within the EHR to automate the test selection process by using a branching series of questions that linked clinical criteria to the appropriate SARS-CoV-2 test and triggered an EHR flag for patients who met our institutional persons under investigation criteria.

Results

The percentage of tests that had to be canceled and reordered due to errors in selecting the correct testing modality was 3.8% (23/608) before CDS implementation and 1% (262/26,643) after CDS implementation (P<.001). Patients for whom multiple tests were ordered during a 24-hour period accounted for 0.8% (5/608) and 0.3% (76/26,643) of pre- and post-CDS implementation orders, respectively (P=.03). Nasopharyngeal molecular assay results were positive in 3.4% (826/24,170) of patients who were classified as asymptomatic and 10.9% (1421/13,074) of symptomatic patients (P<.001). Positive tests were more frequent among asymptomatic patients with a history of exposure to COVID-19 (36/283, 12.7%) than among asymptomatic patients without such a history (790/23,887, 3.3%; P<.001).

Conclusions

The leveraging of EHRs and our CDS algorithm resulted in a decreased incidence of order entry errors and the appropriate flagging of persons under investigation. These interventions optimized reagent and personal protective equipment usage. Data regarding symptoms and COVID-19 exposure status that were collected by using the decision tree correlated with the likelihood of positive test results, suggesting that clinicians appropriately used the questions in the decision tree algorithm.
Smartphone-Based Artificial Intelligence–Assisted Prediction for Eyelid Measurements: Algorithm Development and Observational Validation Study
Authors: Chen Hung-Chang , Tzeng Shin-Shi , Hsiao Yen-Chang , Chen Ruei-Feng , Hung Erh-Chien , Lee Oscar K
Published: September 2021

Background

Margin reflex distance 1 (MRD1), margin reflex distance 2 (MRD2), and levator muscle function (LF) are crucial metrics for ptosis evaluation and management. However, manual measurements of MRD1, MRD2, and LF are time-consuming, subjective, and prone to human error. Smartphone-based artificial intelligence (AI) image processing is a potential solution to overcome these limitations.

Objective

We propose the first smartphone-based AI-assisted image processing algorithm for MRD1, MRD2, and LF measurements.

Methods

This observational study included 822 eyes of 411 volunteers aged over 18 years from August 1, 2020, to April 30, 2021. Six orbital photographs (bilateral primary gaze, up-gaze, and down-gaze) were taken using a smartphone (iPhone 11 Pro Max). The gold-standard measurements and normalized eye photographs were obtained from these orbital photographs and compiled using AI-assisted software to create MRD1, MRD2, and LF models.

Results

The Pearson correlation coefficients between the gold-standard measurements and the predicted values obtained with the MRD1 and MRD2 models were excellent (r=0.91 and 0.88, respectively) and that obtained with the LF model was good (r=0.73). The intraclass correlation coefficient demonstrated excellent agreement between the gold-standard measurements and the values predicted by the MRD1 and MRD2 models (0.90 and 0.84, respectively), and substantial agreement with the LF model (0.69). The mean absolute errors were 0.35 mm, 0.37 mm, and 1.06 mm for the MRD1, MRD2, and LF models, respectively. The 95% limits of agreement were –0.94 to 0.94 mm for the MRD1 model, –0.92 to 1.03 mm for the MRD2 model, and –0.63 to 2.53 mm for the LF model.

Conclusions

We developed the first smartphone-based AI-assisted image processing algorithm for eyelid measurements. MRD1, MRD2, and LF measures can be taken in a quick, objective, and convenient manner. Furthermore, by using a smartphone, the examiner can check these measurements anywhere and at any time, which facilitates data collection.
The Significance of Alliance Networks in Research and Development of Digital Health Products for Diabetes: Observational Study
Authors: Kikuchi Satoru , Kodama Kota , Sengoku Shintaro
Published: September 2021

Background

Digital health has been advancing owing to technological progress by means of smart devices and artificial intelligence, among other developments. In the field of diabetes especially, there are many active use cases of digital technology supporting the treatment of diabetes and improving lifestyle. In the innovation ecosystem, new alliance networks are formed not only by medical device companies and pharmaceutical companies, but also by information and communications technology companies and start-ups. While understanding and utilizing the network structure is important to increase the competitive advantage of companies, there is a lack of previous research describing the structure of alliance networks and the factors that lead to their formation in digital health.

Objective

The aim of this study was to explore the significance of alliance networks, focusing on digital health for diabetes, in effectively implementing processes, from the research and development of products or services to their launch and market penetration.

Methods

First, we listed the companies and contracts related to digital health for diabetes, visualized the change in the number of companies and the connections between companies in each industry, and analyzed the overview of the network. Second, we calculated the degree, betweenness centrality, and eigenvector centrality of each company in each year. Next, we analyzed the relationship between network centrality and market competitiveness by using annual sales as a parameter of company competitiveness. We also compared the network centrality of each company by industry or headquarters location (or both) and analyzed the characteristics of companies with higher centrality. Finally, we analyzed the relationship between network centrality and the number of products certified or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.

Results

We found the degree centrality of companies was correlated with an increase in their sales. The betweenness and eigenvector centralities of medical devices companies located in the United States were significantly higher than those outside the United States (P=.04 and .005, respectively). Finally, the degree, betweenness, and eigenvector centralities were correlated with an increase in the number of Class III, but not of Class I nor II, medical device products.

Conclusions

These findings give rise to new insights into industry ecosystem for digital health and its requirement and expect a contribution to research and development practices in the field of digital health.
Changes in Family Structure in Latvia: trends and challenges
Authors:   Latvia University of Life Sciences and Technologies, Millere Jolanta
Published: September 2021

Nowadays, we can observe various changes in family structure, which lead to the need to change the traditional understanding of the family. These changes can be explained by the prevalence of the globalization process in society, which have affected almost all spheres of life, including the family institute. Within the article, based on the analysis of statistical data and literature, the current trends of changes in family structure and related challenges will be described. When analysing changes in family structure, it is necessary to focus on both - structural and qualitative changes, which were reflected in the composition of families, trends in marriage registration, as well as in relationships between family members. The most characteristic changes show increase of such families with children where cohabiting partners are living together without registering the marriage as well as decreasing amount of nuclear families and increasing amount of single-parent families. This trend leads to other qualitative changes in family structure - several challenges of social policy because single-parent families often face different problems related to effective functioning of the family. For example, single-parent families with children are more often at risk of poverty than nuclear families, as well as face various types of problems in meeting the needs of the family. Social policy planners, when designing support for families with children, should take into account the specifics of single-parent families and provide them support according to the needs of these families, without waiting when families will fall into the social risk category.
Burnout during the COVID pandemic: a case of the social services sector in Latvia
Authors:   University of Latvia, Niklass Mareks
Published: September 2021

The paper analyses the results of an online survey of 443 social services sector employees carried out in October and November 2020 in Latvia. The survey was aimed to measure the impact of the pandemic on the social services sector, i.e. how social services were delivered, whether restrictions imposed have any effect on a given service (form, quality, quantity) as well as how social services sector organizations and employees coped with the pandemic both at organizational and psychological levels. A short version of the burnout measure developed by Ayala Malach-Pines was used to estimate the burnout level among social services sector employees. The survey results indicate that about one third of the surveyed employees are exposed to a high risk of burnout. Contrary to other studies, burnout has no relationship with the number of clients (a proxy variable for workload) served in a given institution. Burnout is more likely associated with factors related to the methodological, technical support and overall working conditions in one’s organization.
Gene Panel Sequencing of Patients With Monogenic Diabetes Brings to Light Genes Typically Associated With Syndromic Presentations
Authors: Saint-Martin Cécile , Bouvet Delphine , Bastide Mathilda , Bellanné-Chantelot Christine
Published: September 2021

Gene panel sequencing (NGS) offers the possibility of analyzing rare forms of monogenic diabetes (MgD). To that end, 18 genes were analyzed in 1,676 patients referred for maturity-onset diabetes of the young genetic testing. Among the 307 patients with a molecular diagnosis of MgD, 55 (17.9%) had a mutation in a gene associated with a genetic syndrome. Of the patients with mutations, 8% (n = 25) carried the m.3243A>G variant associated with maternally inherited diabetes and deafness. At the time of referral very few had reported hearing loss or any other element of the typical syndromic presentation. Of the patients, 6% had mutation in HNF1B even though the typical extrapancreatic features were not known at the time of referral. Surprisingly, the third most prominent etiology in these rare forms was the WFS1 gene, accounting for 2.9% of the patients with pathogenic mutations (n = 9). None of them displayed a Wolfram syndrome presentation even though some features were reported in six of nine patients. To restrict the analysis of certain genes to patients with the respective specific phenotypes would be to miss those with partial presentations. These results therefore underlie the undisputable benefit of NGS strategies even though the situation implies cascade consequences both for the molecular biologist and for the clinician.
AVALIAÇÃO DOS FATORES MOTIVADORES PARA INGRESSO E PERMANÊNCIA NOS CURSOS DE LICENCIATURAS NA UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DO AMAZONAS E INSTITUTO FEDERAL DE EDUCAÇÃO, CIÊNCIA E TECNOLOGIA DO SERTÃO PERNAMBUCANO
Authors: Silva Santos Erinéia da , Ayala de Oliveira Cristiane , Alves Pereira Cláudio
Published: September 2021

Este trabalho objetiva investigar as motivações que contribuíram para o ingresso e a permanência dos alunos em cursos de licenciaturas duplas e específicas, na perspectiva de indicar potencialidades e fragilidades na formação inicial e formativa do professor. A metodologia adotou abordagens qualitativa e quantitativa com o intuito de responder as indagações propostas neste trabalho, com aplicação de um questionário semiaberto e uso da escala de Likert. Para análise dos dados foram utilizados os programas Excel e SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences). Os resultados mostraram que, independentemente da licenciatura em que ingressaram, a permanência dos alunos no curso depende de fatores sociais e econômicos, como o local em que estes residem e as dificuldades de conciliação trabalho-estudo, além de fatores institucionais, como apoio pedagógico e oferta de atividades complementares, e o papel decisivo do exemplo dos professores do curso para consolidar a escolha pela carreira docente por parte dos licenciandos.
NOVOS TEMPOS E NOVOS DESAFIOS EDUCACIONAIS: A EDUCAÇÃO BÁSICA NA MODALIDADE REMOTA DURANTE A PANDEMIA DE COVID-19
Authors: Rodrigues dos Santos Elton Castro , Oliveira da Silva Marineide de , Vieira Junior Niltom
Published: September 2021

A tecnologia tem sido uma aliada importante da educação básica em tempos pandêmicos, mas ainda há professores e alunos com dificuldade de adaptação a essa nova realidade. Por isso, este trabalho, com bases bibliográficas, tem o objetivo de apresentar e debater questões que envolvem a problemática do ensino remoto na educação básica, incluindo limites e possibilidades de sucesso educacional nessa modalidade. O levantamento bibliográfico mostrou que, embora o Brasil seja um país que consome um grande número de recursos tecnológicos, estes não estão sendo utilizados na educação. Além disso, constatou-se que, para que pudessem avançar nos estudos, durante o distanciamento social, professores e alunos precisaram se reinventar e, embora a situação seja controversa, acredita-se que a prática das aulas remotas trará benefícios futuros, pois teremos professores com maior expertise no uso das tecnologias, o que pode fazer com que surja, no ensino presencial, aulas mais dinâmicas e interativas.
OS CONSENSOS SOBRE OS ASPECTOS PEDAGÓGICOS DE ESPECIALISTAS/ACADÊMICOS NO ENSINO DO CONTEÚDO LUTAS NAS ESCOLAS
Authors: Luz Moura Diego , Williams de Souza Targino Phillipe , Eugênio Araujo João Gabriel
Published: September 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é identificar os consensos sobre os aspectos por especialistas/acadêmicos pedagógicos no ensino do conteúdo lutas nas escolas. A metodologia utilizada foi a técnica delphi. Esta metodologia busca um consenso de especialistas através da utilização de entrevistas abertas e posteriormente, questionários para a identificação dos consensos. O critério de inclusão dos participantes foi: a) possuir pelo menos a 2(dois) anos com experiência no ensino da disciplina de lutas na universidade e; b) possuir 10 anos como praticante de alguma modalidade de lutas. Concluimos que os especialistas reforçam temas que são encontrados na literatura da área e indicam outros pontos que merecem reflexão. Neste sentido, estes consensos podem ser entendidos como uma agenda para se pensar o ensino das lutas.
CONQUISTAS E DESAFIOS PARA A FORMAÇÃO CONTINUADA DOCENTE A PARTIR DO PLANO MUNICIPAL DE EDUCAÇÃO EM PONTA PORÃ/MS APROVADO NO ANO DE 2015
Authors: Artur Busch Vergutz Silvano , Pacífico Marsiel , Sales Antonio
Published: September 2021

O artigo apresenta uma análise com objetivo de abordar o Plano Municipal de Educação em Ponta Porã/MS (PME) mediante a apresentação de pontos importantes da legislação aplicada à formação docente que atuará nas séries iniciais do ensino fundamental e verificar se o mesmo está alinhado com os Planos Nacional e Estadual de Educação, enfatizando a influência da LDB 9.394/96 e das Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais. A metodologia utilizada é a revisão de literatura com ênfase documental sobre as relações existentes entre esses norteadores da educação em conjunto com as ações realizadas pela administração pública municipal. A pesquisa destaca as conquistas e desafios nas políticas públicas e compreende a importância da formação continuada, ainda que esta permaneça aquém do que se é necessário para que ocorra uma transformação expressiva nos métodos de ensino e se obtenha o avanço desejado na educação, ferramenta de grande importância para alcançar uma educação pública de qualidade.
Is Standard Oral Dose Dexamethasone (6mg Once Daily) Prescribed For COVID-19 Pneumonitis Treating Autoimmune Haemolytic Anaemia Associated with COVID-19? A Case Series of Five Patients Providing Us with the Answer
Authors: Dr. Saquib Navid Siddiqui
Published: September 2021

Initially originating as an epidemic respiratory illness in Wuhan, China, COVID-19 eventually spread around the world and has now been declared as a global pandemic disease by the WHO. Our understanding of the pathophysiology of SARS-CoV-2 is evolving with each passage of days. Previously thought to be a respiratory illness resulting in pulmonary complications such as pneumonia, respiratory failure, and acute respiratory distress syndrome now have been found to be causing multiple extra-pulmonary pathologies which includes various degree of autoimmune disorders. Certain group of patients have been found to have autoimmune haemolytic anaemia triggered by COVID-19. We report a case series of five patients who developed COVID-19 induced AIHA which responded dramatically to oral dexamethasone (6mg once daily) initially prescribed for the deteriorating pulmonary function. Therefore, our intuition is dexamethasone prescribed for COVID-19 pneumonitis is beneficial for the rapid recovery of AIHA associated with COVID-19.
Assessment of Females Awareness in Saudi Arabia about Long term use of COCP and Venous Thromboembolism Risk: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Basmah Mohammed Alazmi  , Shaikha Sulayyem Alsharari  , Razan motawkel  , Sara Alzahrani  , Anhar Alfateel  , Jinan Msallati  , Noora Abdulhafeedh Alsulami  , Abdulaziz Aloudah
Published: September 2021

Background: Nowadays there are a lot of women using contraceptive oral combined pills for birth control and as we know VTE is one of the complications when it used for a long time, and here in this study our aim is to assess the awareness and knowledge of females who live in Saudi Arabia about COCP and its complications like VTE.
A cross-sectional observational study based on a questionnaire conducted among females who live in Saudi Arabia. Data collection was done by using online survey which contains questions about the age, education and contraception.
Methods: An observational cross-sectional study carried out during December 2020 in Saudi Arabia. We minimize our target population through inclusion criteria: 1- Female 2- Live in Saudi Arabia 3- Agree to participate. Sample size was 454 participants calculated by using survey system website through sample size calculator with Confidence Level 95% and margin of error 5%.
Result: A total of 454 patients completed the survey questionnaire. The results showed that the vast majority of the study participants aged 20 years or more. Moreover, more than 90% of the study participants were Saudi females. The average body weight is around 95 kg and height 164.2 cm. The results also indicated that two-third of the study participants attained university education level compared to 16.1% obtained secondary education. Additionally, 36.6% of the study participants worked as a housewife, 18.1% working in health field. Moreover, 40% of the respondents reside in the western regions, 34% live in eastern regions compared to the lowest percentage in South region 3.3%.
Conclusion: In summary, this study revealed that the internet was the main source of knowledge. Health care providers should perform their intended role in improving the female’s awareness regarding family planning. The criteria for preferable contraceptive method are that it has few or no side effects, also it depends on how much effective and convenient it is. Educational programs may be warranted to minimize the fear of side effects and to enhance the general knowledge about contraception.
Knowledge and Practices Assessment of Decontamination during Root Canal Treatment in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Necdet Adanir  , Hassan Alkhalaf  , Maram H. Alanazi  , Asma S. Alghamdi  , Abdullah A. Aljami  , Amjad O. Aljohani  , Khames T. Alzahrani
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Bacteria play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of pulpal and periradicular pathoses. For example: Apical periodontitis is an inflammation of dental periapical tissues developed as a response to colonization of microorganisms in root canal system. The elimination of microbial species from the infected root canal system necessitates a strict aseptic condition for Instrumentation, disinfection and inter appointment medication. Enterococcus faecalis and Candida albicans had been commonly associated organisms in treatment-resistant infections. Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study based on web-survey questionnaires developed by the authors with high confidence. The sample size was 304 estimated using the Qualtrics calculator with a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%. The questionnaire is divided into sections, regarding endodontic practice include endodontic education , years of experience , used of rubber dam or no and how to used irrigant solution whoever Sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl), Chlorhexidine, chelating agents (EDTA) or (MTAD) and reasons of every irrigant that prevents during root canal treatment. Data were collected using Google forms and prepared for analysis using Microsoft Excel. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Results: A total of 304 participants responded, 44.1% dental interns, 39.5% General Dentist, 9.9% Endodontist, 6.3% other dental specialty. the Probable reasons that prevent them using rubber dam during root canal treatment are: 5.9% due to difficulty to apply, 9.2% due to lack of materials, 5.3% because it is a time-consuming, 1.6% said that other isolation methods are enough (partial isolation), 3.9% because of multiple reason combined together. 48.7% they always use rubber dam, so they did not choose any of the previous reasons. Conclusion: In conclusion, we identify and understand, most of the participants “always using rubber dam” during root canal treatment and the most common reasons was time consumption that prevented dentist from using rubber. In this study majority of participants preferred NaOCl 81.9% and 7.1% don’t use it.
A Rare Case of a Giant Retroperitoneal Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumor of Malignant Potential
Authors: Abdullah M. Alshamrani  , Meshare A Albattah  , Rasha A Bssas  , Fatemah Y Alhedaithy  , Mshaeel H Almutairi  , Mohayad A Bkheite  , Salih H Albishri
Published: September 2021

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are mesenchymal tumors that originate in the gastrointestinal tract. We present the case of a 30-year-old man who presented with progressive abdominal distension of one-years’ duration. A physical examination revealed a distended, tense, non-tender abdomen, and initial imaging investigations revealed a huge cystic, septate abdominal mass. A provisional diagnosis was made of a huge retroperitoneal, malignant, cystic mass. However, aspiration cytology showed signs suggestive of a benign cyst. Cystic tumor excision performed with control of drain site to prevent leakeage throughout the procedure. The tumor extending into the pelvis, measuring approximately 17 x 31 x 42 cm in diameter and weighing 3.78 kg. The tumor was resected, and a histopathological examination showed findings consistent with a GIST of mixed spindle and epithelioid type. Further evaluations revealed that the tumor was positive for CD 117 and CD 34, prompting the oncology team to start the patient on oral imatinib 400 mg once daily. No evidence of local recurrence or distant metastasis was noted on an abdominal computed tomography scan performed during the follow-up visit up to October 2020 last follow-up. The clinical presentation of GISTs is often complex, making its diagnosis challenging, especially in patients who present with non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms. The successful management of these tumors requires a multidisciplinary approach, and regular follow-ups.
Flexural Strength of Composite Based Provisional Crown Materials
Authors: Osama Qutub  , Salman Khalid Bashnani  , Faisal Khalid Bashnaini
Published: September 2021

Introduction: One of the important aspects of provisional restorations, especially in case of long-span edentulous situations, short-height pontics, extended treatment time and in patients with para-functional habits is their flexural strength. Maintaining the integrity of the provisional restorations throughout the course of treatments is highly valuable and important to have a predictable outcome. Objectives: To evaluate and compare the flexural strength of composite based provisional materials. Materials and Methods: Materials: Group 1, conventional bisacryl composite material (Protemp 4, 3M). Group 2, Computer Assisted Designing - Computer Assisted Milling (CAD-CAM) composite provisional material (CAD Temp). Method: Twenty identical specimens sized 25×2×2-mm were prepared from each material.
A standard three-point bending test was conducted on the specimens with a universal testing machine at a 0.5 mm/min crosshead speed, and the flexural strength values were calculated (MPa) for each specimen. The flexural strength data were statistically analyzed using T-Test. Results: The measured mean flexural strength values (MPa) were as follow: group1 = 99.38 in comparison to group 2 = 92.06. There were statistically significant differences among the flexural strengths of tested materials (P < 0.05), The conventional group had significantly higher flexural strength than the CAD/CAM group (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Within the limitation of this study, the bisacryl composite resin (Protemp 4) provisional material has superior flexural strength than CAD/CAM composite material. Although many authors recommended the use of CAD/CAM provisional materials, this study prove that the material composition is as important as the material method of fabrication.
The Prevalence of Ketogenic Diet among Adults with Chronic Disease in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khalid Abdullah Algamdi  , Sajidah Hisham Abu Alsaud  , Ghada Badr Alghubaini  , Muna Mustafa Alsaggaf  , Ibtisam Ahmed Altalhi  , Jood Sami Asali  , Shada Mohammed Abyad  , Alzahrani Khames T.
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Ketogenic diet was first approached diet in treatment of epilepsy in children, later on, many studies showed its positive effect on adults who have chronic diseases and obesity. The main aim of the diet is to allow the body to reach the state of ketosis by generating energy from fat rather than glucose, and this happen by lowering the carbohydrates, adding moderate protein and high fat, thus letting the body burn fat for fuel. Since more than 50 years studies linked consumption of saturated fat with cardio-metabolic disease risk and obesity, and nowadays many studies have shown a positive impact of consumption of saturated fat. Therefore, this is a study to determine the prevalence of Saudi adult with chronic disease who follow a ketogenic diet. Methods: This was an observational cross-sectional study based on web-survey questionnaires developed by developed originally by author with high confidence level. The sample size was 479 estimated using the Qualtrics calculator with a confidence level of 95% and a margin of error of 5%. The questionnaire is divided into four categories. We started the questioner with demographic factors including age, nationality, dental degree date and in which country, work setting and cariology course attendance. 2nd it was about 3 clinical scenarios. Data were collected using Google forms and prepared for analysis using Microsoft Excel. Statistical analysis was performed using the SPSS software. Results: The total number of the current study participants was 464, the highest percentage (33.90%) were in the age group of 40-50 years old, 44.80% were in the weight range of 61-80 kg, while 11.90% have a weight of >100 kg, and half (50%) of the participants have a height range of 151-160 cm. Most (71%) of the participants have a college educational level, and 44.30% were employees. The prevalence of hypercholesterolemia and diabetes among the respondents was 23.70%, and 2.50%, respectively. The overall prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 2.30%. Almost half (50.10%) of the participants reported having obesity, and 19.10% were hypertensive. Conclusion: Ketogenic diet in this review showed a positive results within the utilization in chronic illnesses and obesity. In any case, The long-term hazard related with adverse impacts is unknown; therefore, advance studies may be valuable. Future randomized clinical trials are required to affirm the viability of the ketogenic diet in different sorts of adults’ chronic illness and to supply advance data on a few uncertain commonsense issues, i.e., how long the ketogenic diet ought to be proceeded.
A Randomized, Multicentric, Open Label, Interventional Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Tolerability of Four Types of Amrutanjan Pain Balms for Pain Relief in Patients with Primary Type of Headache and Body Pain Disorders
Authors: Ramesh Kannan  , Sakthi Balan  , Aravinda Kumar  , Ravichandran J  , Manigandan G  , Ananda Babu
Published: September 2021

Introduction: Body pain disorders like knee pain, low back pain and primary headache disorders impose burdens that include substantial personal suffering, impaired quality of life, and financial cost. Repeated attacks, and often fear of future attacks, affects the family life, social life, and employment. Objectives: To evaluate the Safety, Efficacy and tolerability of four types of Amrutanjan Pain Balm preparations for rapid pain relief in patients with primary type of headache and body pain disorders. Materials & Methods: This study is a randomized, multicentric, open label, interventional study conducted at a secondary care centre in Vellore. A total of 150 patients were screened and 144 patients were enrolled who were diagnosed with either body pain disorders like knee pain, low back pain or primary type of headache disorders like migraine, tension type headache and other primary head ache disorders. All the study participants were randomized to four arms of 36 each such that each arm comprised of 12 patients with knee pain, 12 patients with low back pain and 12 patients with primary headache disorder to receive four different formulations of Amrutanjan pain balms. Efficacy was evaluated by assessing pain reduction after treatment at various time points and duration of action. Visual analogue scale questionnaires were used post study to obtain feedback on overall status of improvement. Results: Patients enrolled with headache had 75 % tension-type, 17% migraine and 8% Cluster headache; those with knee joint Pain had osteoarthritis (80%) and reactive arthritis (20%) whereas patients with low back pain had lumbar strain and lumbar spondylosis. The onset of action was 55 seconds for patients with headache disorders, while it ranged between 95 to 115 seconds for joint pain and low back pain respectively. Highly significant improvement in the VAS score, was observed after 5, 10 and 30 minutes of test product application. Conclusion: All the four types of topical Amrutanjan balms were found to be effective and safe for the treatment of primary headache and body pain disorders.