bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Crystal Structure of the Michaelis–Menten Complex of C1 Esterase Inhibitor and C1s Reveals Novel Insights into Complement Regulation
Authors: Garrigues Ryan J , Garrison Matthew P , Garcia Brandon L
Published: July 2024

The ancient arm of innate immunity known as the complement system is a blood proteolytic cascade involving dozens of membrane-bound and solution-phase components. Although many of these components serve as regulatory molecules to facilitate controlled activation of the cascade, C1 esterase inhibitor (C1-INH) is the sole canonical complement regulator belonging to a superfamily of covalent inhibitors known as serine protease inhibitors (SERPINs). In addition to its namesake role in complement regulation, C1-INH also regulates proteases of the coagulation, fibrinolysis, and contact pathways. Despite this, the structural basis for C1-INH recognition of its target proteases has remained elusive. In this study, we present the crystal structure of the Michaelis–Menten (M-M) complex of the catalytic domain of complement component C1s and the SERPIN domain of C1-INH at a limiting resolution of 3.94 Å. Analysis of the structure revealed that nearly half of the protein/protein interface is formed by residues outside of the C1-INH reactive center loop. The contribution of these residues to the affinity of the M-M complex was validated by site-directed mutagenesis using surface plasmon resonance. Parallel analysis confirmed that C1-INH–interfacing residues on C1s surface loops distal from the active site also drive affinity of the M-M complex. Detailed structural comparisons revealed differences in substrate recognition by C1s compared with C1-INH recognition and highlight the importance of exosite interactions across broader SERPIN/protease systems. Collectively, this study improves our understanding of how C1-INH regulates the classical pathway of complement, and it sheds new light on how SERPINs recognize their cognate protease targets.
The origin of towns in the Eastern Cape Midlands
Authors: Myburgh D.W.
Published: July 2024

The origin of urban centres is related to settlement history and the needs of the local population. Since some of the oldest inland towns in South Africa were founded in the Eastern Cape Midlands, this region lends itself to the study of the origin of towns. Three distinct periods of township formation are distinguishable: during the first, political or administrative considerations were of major importance; in the second, towns were established by the Dutch Reformed Church; no one common factor can be indicated for towns founded during the third period except probably the need in most instances for a central place.
The Blaauwkrantz bridge
Authors: Hunt K.S.
Published: July 2024

The opening of the Blaauwkrantz Bridge in 1884 was an important link in the completion of the railway line-between Grahamstown and Port Alfred. This line proved a boon to farmers of the area and to businessmen in Grahamstown and Port Alfred. For the private company who built the line, however, it was not a financial success, and in 1913 it was taken over by the South African Railways and integrated into their railway system. Unable to cope with the increased traffic and the heavier rolling stock, the original Blaauwkrantz Bridge was eventually replaced by a new one. The old bridge, however, is still remembered for a railway disaster in April 1911 in which twenty eight people were killed.
The Natal interior
Authors: Christopher A.J.
Published: July 2024

The Natal Interior, a pastoral region since the nineteenth century, has throughout its history experienced rural and urban growth. The landscape of the past is thus being more rapidly changed in Natal than in most parts of South Africa. However, the region still provides a most interesting, and often surprising, landscape. It was the Cape Colonists who initiated the rural settlement with their stock-farming and cultural ideas, but the overall character of the settlement eventually became British, and building styles as a rule followed the general trends in England. In time the pattern of the towns established to administer and act as commercial centres for the surrounding rural areas was changed when the Natal coalfields began to emerge. These caused the development of many self-contained, coalmining communities.
A new town at Uitvlugt: The foundation and development of Pinelands 1919-1948
Authors: Cuthbertson G.C.
Published: July 2024

The influenza epidemic of 1918 in the Cape Peninsula caused Richard Stuttaford, a city councillor of Cape Town and a leading figure in the Associated Chambers of Commerce of South Africa, to feel that better housing might have saved many lives. In his opinion the answer to the problem lay in the establishment of a 'garden city', and to that end he donated £10 000 in 1919 to institute a 'garden city; at Uitvlugt (Pinelands). The development of Pinelands is not only unique in the field of urban planning in South Africa; its historical significance also lies in its being an experiment in local government within the metropolitan framework of Cape Town. The creation of Pinelands had a considerable effect on the housing conditions prevailing in South Africa after World War I. This article emphasises the institutional aspects of the township because of their influence on the community.
Vanwyksvlei: 'n Streekhistoriese skets
Authors: Van der Merwe J.C.S.
Published: July 2024

Ever since the days of the pioneers water has played an important part in the founding and development of Vanwyksvlei, situated as it is in the Carnarvon district, one of the most arid parts of the central Karroo. The water scarcity is reflected in the names given to farms by White stockfarmers and Trekboers who, during the mid-nineteenth century, settled themselves in this barren region. A case in point is the township of Vanwyksvlei, which indeed came into being as a direct result of the construction of an irrigation scheme (dam) started in 1882. When it was completed in 1884, the first land below its wall was granted to farmers for irrigation purposes; water canals were also dug. As the township developed, facilities and services such as education, communication and the enforcement of law and order followed. At first farming was hampered by periodical drought and cattle diseases, and the supply of water to the villagers for household use also caused problems. However, the steps which were taken to solve these matters, later proved successful. The management of Vanwyksvlei was consecutively entrusted to the Department of Irrigation, the Department of Lands, and a Settlement Board. A village management board was instituted in 1972 and three years later the town was granted municipal status.
Van Nazareth tot Middelburg: Beeld van die Geskiedenis van ’n dorp
Authors: Claassen G.N.
Published: July 2024

Originally the district of Middelburg was part of the Republic of Lydenburg. In 1860, however, before the town of Middelburg was established (1864), this district was incorporated into the Transvaal Republic. From 1866 the town was called Nazareth until the Volksraad in 1874 restored the name of Middelburg. During the Second Anglo-Boer War the British forces who had occupied the town established a military and a concentration camp there. Although Middelburg at first developed very slowly, it eventually became an important administrative and educational centre. The large population growth and the rapid progress that Middelburg has experienced in the past two decades have been responsible for the demolition of many of the historical buildings that linked the town with the past.
Behuisingskemas vir gekleurdes in Pretoria 1900-1924
Authors: Nöthling F.J.
Published: July 2024

During the Republican period Coloured people in Pretoria had to provide their own housing. This situation was perpetuated under British rule owing to factors such as insufficient funds, lax municipal administration, and the temporary nature of the governmental system. Housing conditions for Coloured people were indeed very poor until 1910 despite some effort by the City Council and other organisations to bring about improvement. From 1912 the construction of barracks, hostels, model homes, and municipal houses was undertaken and received special attention. The efforts of the local government were not successful, however, and once again the Coloured people had to provide their own housing. With the outbreak of World War I the housing shortage increased since a growing number of Blacks moved from rural areas to Pretoria. Overcrowding and subletting were rife, and the high mortality among Coloured people during the 1918 influenza epidemic was a result of the poor housing facilities in Pretoria. After the War the Coloured people once again approached the City Council for assistance to build houses; meanwhile the housing standards in Marabastad were once more criticised. A new scheme was introduced. whereby houses were to be erected with loans negotiated by the City Council but the necessary capital for such a scheme was not available. This "model scheme" was consequently carried out on a reduced scale by the Council and in the course of 1922 only some 260 two- and three-bedroomed houses were built. Insufficient influx control at this stage gave rise to an even bigger housing shortage and the Council's efforts to accommodate Coloured people in hostels and compounds only partially alleviated the situation. After two decades – during which several housing schemes were tried – the City Council of Pretoria still could not boast of having successfully solved the chronic housing shortage for Coloureds in the area under its jurisdiction.
Investigating salivary matrix metalloproteinase-2 and matrix metalloproteinase-9 activity in fixed orthodontic-induced gingival enlargement
Authors: Ziaei Narges , Kiani Amir , Mohammadi-Noori Ehsan , Arishi Shahram , Golmohammadi Shima
Published: July 2024

Background:

Gingival enlargement (GE) is a common clinical observation among orthodontic patients, yet its underlying causes remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the potential involvement of salivary matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 activity in orthodontic-induced GE.

Materials and Methods:

In this case–control study, we enrolled 50 subjects, including 25 individuals with GE and 25 without. The participants, aged 10–35 years, were in the 4th or 5th month of their orthodontic treatment. Comprehensive clinical assessments, encompassing plaque index, gingival index, and GE score were performed, and saliva samples were subjected to gelatin zymography to assess enzyme activity. Statistical analysis, including the Chi-square test for age distribution, independent samples t-test for age comparison between study groups, Mann–Whitney U test for MMP activity comparison, and Wilcoxon signed–rank test for comparison of data from the 4th to 5th months of treatment, was performed using SPSS version 23.0, with a significance level set at 0.05.

Results:

MMP-2 activity was undetectable in the zymograms. In the 4th month of treatment, MMP-9 activity was more prominent in the case group, though this disparity did not reach statistical significance in the 5th month. Furthermore, MMP-9 activity did not exhibit a correlation with the GE score.

Conclusion:

The activity of MMP-9 in the saliva of orthodontic patients with GE increases during the 4th month of treatment, but no correlation exists with the degree of GE.
Apical and lateral accuracy of intraradicular impressions made using the indirect and direct technique at three different locations: A comparative in vitro analysis
Authors: Da Costa Godwin Clovis , Rajagopal Praveen , Aras Meena Ajay , Ferreira Amanda Nadia
Published: July 2024

Background:

There is limited literature available comparing the accuracy of intraradicular impressions made with a novel hybrid impression material using the indirect and direct technique at three different locations.

Materials and Methods:

For this comparativein vitroanalysis, postspace was prepared in 15 recently extracted teeth and impressions made with vinyl polysiloxane, polyether (PE), vinyl polyether silicone (VPES), and pattern resin. Postpatterns obtained were re-seated on the teeth and longitudinally sectioned. A binocular microscope was used to measure apical and lateral discrepancies at three locations (L1, L2, and L3). L1 at the postcore junction, L2 at the middle of the post space, and L3, 2 mm short of the apical end. The data obtained were statistically analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) (intergroup) followed by Tukey’sposthoctest withP≤ 0.05 was used.

Results:

The one-way ANOVA noted a highly significant difference at the apical location. Pattern resin had the highest apical discrepancy (151.93 ± 8.59 µm), whereas the lowest was with vinyl PE silicone (140.31 ± 11.46 µm). At L1, the highest discrepancy was seen with pattern resin (32.09 ± 2.31 µm), whereas the lowest was with the addition silicone (31.94 ± 2.54 µm). At L2, addition silicone (32.88 ± 2.81 µm) showed the highest discrepancy, whereas the lowest was with vinyl PE silicone (30.5 ± 8.79 µm). The PE group had the highest mean at the L3 location (31.38 ± 3.46 µm) and the lowest was with vinyl PE silicone (30.93 ± 2.25 µm). At all lateral locations, no significant difference was noted. Tukey’sposthoccomparison showed a significant difference between pattern resin and VPES (11.62 µm) followed by pattern resin and addition silicone (11.47 µm) apically.

Conclusion:

The indirect technique using VPES or addition silicone is more accurate than the direct technique at the apical location.
Effects of Use of Personal Protective Equipment on Physical and Mental Health of Health Care Workers: A Mixed-Method Study
Authors: Patil Rutuja S. , Gurjar Sahil K. , Datar Manjiri C. , Pore Prasad D.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Due to the high transmissibility of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) was recommended worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic for health care workers (HCWs).

Objectives:

The study aims to understand the effects of the use of PPE on the health of HCWs.

Materials and Methods:

The study was a mixed-method study consisting of two parts, conducted in the year 2019. Initially, 200 HCWs were asked to fill out an online questionnaire enquiring about the effects of PPE on their health. To assess the distress caused by PPE, Kessler Distress Scale was used. In the second part, 20 random participants were interviewed for a subjective understanding of their experience with PPE.

Results:

Excessive sweating, fatigue, increased thirst, dyspnea, and headache were the most reported symptoms, along with several dermatological symptoms. About 10% of the participants suffered from severe distress. The interviews showed themes involving donning and doffing, physical, psychological, and social well-being, work efficacy, security, and stigma.

Conclusion:

The scarcity of PPE, prolonged duty hours, and lack of prior training led to various mental and physical ailments among HCWs. These could be tackled by simple preventive strategies, which, if implemented at a broad scale, would help the health care community during similar situations in the future.
The Multiprong Approach in Breast Cancer Prevention: Current Scenario and Future Directions!
Authors: Kapoor Suraj , Garg Uma Shankar , Dhawan Rakhi , Kapoor Mansi
Published: July 2024

Breast cancer stands as the most diagnosed cancer among women globally, accounting for one in four cancer cases. Despite this, there is a scarcity of literature addressing prevention strategies and approaches aimed at reducing the risk of breast cancer acquisition, as well as secondary prevention strategies aimed at mitigating morbidity and mortality associated with the disease. The objective of this review is to underscore novel approaches and strategies for the prevention and management of breast cancer. This review is particularly important in the context of resource-poor and developing countries facing challenges in curbing the burden of this disease. This review highlights the importance of addressing multifactorial risk factors with a multiprong approach strategy. This approach encompasses dietary and lifestyle modification, alongside pharmaceutical interventions. Furthermore, recent advances and future directions, including nutrigenomics and early detection strategies, are elucidated. Coordinated and planned efforts at all levels are imperative, encompassing the effective utilization of health education, health promotion, capacity building, and the integration of emerging modalities like precision medicine, targeted approaches, nutrigenomics, and advanced screening tools such as thermography. Exploration of avenues like chemoprevention, precision medicine, and immunoprevention, including targeted approaches, holds promise for further investigation in the future.
Entamoeba histolytica and Giardia lamblia Predominance in Iraq’s Southern Governorates
Authors: Mustafa Hamssa Majid , Hamad Anas Abdullah , Mohsein Osama A.
Published: July 2024

Aim:

Common parasites that can cause gastrointestinal diseases in humans include Entamoeba
histolytica and Giardia
lamblia. These parasites are abundant in Iraq’s Southern Governorates, while exact statistics on prevalence rates may be lacking. Inadequate sanitation, contaminated drinking water, and poor personal hygiene all help to transmit these parasites. The aim of the study was to determine the prevalence of E. histolytica and G. lamblia in the Southern Governorates.

Materials and Methods:

From January 2022 to December 2022, this study conducted a retrospective cohort study using the data from patients seeking medical care in hospitals and health centers in Iraq’s Southern Governorates. Microscopic inspection verified the diagnosis. The data were analyzed using the age groups, gender, season, and geographic dispersion.

Results:

G. lamblia was significantly outnumbered by E. histolytica across each province. Wasit Governorate has the most E. histolytica at 26.6%, whereas Maysan has 8.4% G. lamblia. All the seasons showed a greater incidence of E. histolytica, while spring showing the biggest variation (27.1%). E. histolytica outnumbered G. lamblia in all age groups, particularly among children aged 1–4 (31.3% vs. 3.6%) years. Males were more likely than females to have E. histolytica (58.96%) and G. lamblia (41.04%).

Conclusion:

Through microscopic examination, this study detected G. lamblia and E. histolytica infections in 2000 patients. Geographical location, age, and gender all had an impact on the incidence of those diseases, which differed throughout the Southern Governorates of Iraq.
Metastatic onset of prostate carcinoma: A clinical and pathological challenge
Authors: Dema Vlad S. F. , Nataras Bianca R. , Dema Sorin A. , Bercea Madalina , Barna Robert A. , Cumpanas Alin Adrian
Published: July 2024

Introduction:

Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer, following lung cancer, and the fifth leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide. The onset of the disease, characterized by symptoms or changes caused by distant metastases, is rare and poses a challenge for clinicians and pathologists. We aimed to present a series of prostate carcinoma (PC) with unusual, histologically confirmed distant metastases (pM1) at the time of diagnosis, which raised suspicions of other types or origins of the primary tumor.

Materials and Methods:

Patients diagnosed with PC and distant metastases within a five-year timeframe (2017–2022) were extracted from the hospital database. The following data were collected: patient’s age, imaging data, serum PSA level, and histopathological evaluation results. Patients with unusual distant metastases were selected and analyzed.

Results:

We identified 10 patients in whom the diagnosis of PC was established following histopathological examination of tissue taken from distant metastatic sites (pM1). In three patients, the location of distant metastases was unusual: retroperitoneal, cranial/dural/epicranial and supradiaphragmatic lymph nodes which posed diagnostic challenges. Establishing the prostate origin of the tumor relied on immunohistochemical (IHC) investigation guided by clinical-imaging information.

Conclusions:

A metastasis of PC may rarely present as a cranial/dural tumor, retroperitoneal, or supradiaphragmatic lymphadenopathies in a man over the age of 50, but it should be taken into consideration. In the absence of correlated clinical, imaging, and histopathological/IHC data, diagnosing distant metastasis from PC is difficult, especially considering its potentially confusing IHC profile.
Effectiveness of selected interventions on quality of life and self-efficacy among elderly
Authors: Basnet Susma , Balu Venkatesan , Kamei Sonia , Devi Yumnam Sushma , Sapkota Pratima
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

India is one of the world’s developing countries, and its population is ageing, that is, increasing, which increases the demand for health care. Ageing is a natural process. Quality of life (QoL) and self-efficacy are two of the most important factors in human development. This is a study to assess the effectiveness of selected interventions on QoL and self-efficacy among elderly.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A community-based survey was used to select samples in a rural community. Data were collected between March 25 and April 23, 2022 using a quasi-experimental, one-group pre- and post-test research design. This survey was conducted among the elderly, of whom 60 were selected using simple random sampling techniques. Selected interventions were administered. The WHOQOL BREF (standardized tool) and GSE scales were used to assess the QoL and self-efficacy among the elderly.

RESULTS:

The study findings revealed that at the baseline level of QoL and self-efficacy, none of the subjects had good QoL and high self-efficacy, whereas after implementation of the selected interventions, the majority of the elderly had average QoL (98.3%) and 81.7% had high self-efficacy. The baseline mean score for QoL was 48.3% and that for self-efficacy was 61.3%, with post-test scores of 65.8% and 80.7%, respectively, and there was a statistical difference at P < 0.001.

CONCLUSION:

The study findings evidenced that selected interventions (education, reminiscence therapy, and demonstration of exercise) were effective in improving the QoL and self-efficacy among the elderly. Aged populations need to maintain their active, healthy, and happy living. Studies recommend these interventions are beneficial for elderly populations.
Risk factors and outcome of hepatitis C infection among patients in a secondary care hospital: A 5-year retrospective study
Authors: Sannathimmappa Mohan B. , Zehri Latifa , Al Zadjali Ayat A. M. , Albalushi Halima M. A. , Al Saadi Buthaina A. A. H. , Aravindakshan Rajeev , Al-Risi Elham S. , Al-Maqbali Saleema , Nambiar Vinod
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, predominantly transmitted by exposure to infected blood, remains one of the major public health problems worldwide. This study aims to identify the risk factors of HCV transmission and its chronic complications among the study group.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This retrospective study was approved by the Research and Ethical Review and Approve Committee (RERAC) of Oman and conducted at a secondary-care hospital situated in the North Batinah region of Oman. The study population included all HCV cases confirmed by positive serology and reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction tests during their presence at the hospital between January 2017 and December 2022. The relevant data of the study population were retrieved from the hospital electronic health record system. The data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), Version 26.0.

RESULTS:

A total of 177 HCV confirmed cases were included in the study. HCV infection was predominant among males (74%) and individuals of the age group of 21–60 years (74.6%). Genotyping was possible only in 107 cases. Among HCV genotypes, genotype 3 (58.9%) was the most frequently identified, followed by genotype 1 (34.6%). Hemodialysis (21.5%), history of blood transfusion (16.4%), and injection drug use (11.9%) were the major risk factors for HCV infection, while cirrhosis (7.3%) and fatty liver disease (4%) were the most frequently observed chronic HCV complications. HCV infection in the spouse/partner (21.5%), alcohol use (7.3%), and co-infection with hepatitis B virus (2.3%) and human immunodeficiency virus (1.7%) were the other significant factors detected in our study population.

CONCLUSIONS:

HCV is a multi-factorial disease leading to severe chronic complications, thus representing a public health threat. This clearly emphasizes the cruciality of HCV community awareness campaigns and enhancement of Omani national guidelines for early screening of high-risk groups as well as effective management of HCV-infected cases to reduce the substantial burden of the disease on patients as well as the healthcare system.
Audiovisual technology intervention for reducing preoperative anxiety in children undergoing general anesthesia: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Oktaviani Jacinda R. , Widjaja Vivi , Singgih Nicholas A. , Pranowo Sampurno Secodiningrat Raden H.
Published: July 2024

Preoperative anxiety (POA) is a concern for children undergoing surgery, especially with general anesthesia. POA can result in many postoperative problems, such as physical, psychological, and financial problems. Nonpharmacological treatments have been investigated for reducing POA as they are more pleasant and have fewer adverse effects compared to pharmacological treatments. Audiovisual technology treatment is one of the nonpharmacological treatments developed lately. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of an audiovisual technology intervention for reducing POA in children undergoing general anesthesia. This study was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Guideline 2020. Google Scholar, PubMed, ProQuest, and Cochrane databases were used for searching English articles published between January 2015 and June 2023. Cochrane Review Manager 5.4 was used for the meta-analysis and the Risk of Bias Tool 2.0 was used to measure the risk of bias. The studies included were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the audiovisual technology intervention with a control population. The modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale was the outcome of interest. We found 627 articles in four databases using the search term. After screening with the eligibility criteria, three studies from Iran, Denmark, and China were included in the meta-analysis. A random effect model was applied. The meta-analysis resulted in a significant result as a lower modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale score was found in the audiovisual technology intervention group compared with the control group (mean difference -10.75 [-16.48 to -5.03]; 95% confidence interval; P = .0002.) The presence of audiovisual technology interventions such as video games, cartoons or animation videos, and smartphone applications could significantly lower POA in children undergoing general anesthesia.
Patients’ perceptions of the announcement of cancer diagnosis in Morocco “Cancer patients cases treated in the Fez-Meknes Region”
Authors: Rharib Oussama , Saadi Radouane , Mengad Aziz , Ertel Merouane , Bouferma Younes , Saka Khadija , Ababou Mohammed
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

The announcement of a cancer diagnosis represents a real turning point, significantly and pessimistically changing the patient’s vision of his future. The task of the healthcare professional in communicating bad news is complex. It requires careful use of words, establishing a relationship of trust, a patient approach, and encouraging the person affected by cancer to express their emotions. This is a sociological study of a series of cancer patient cases designed to reveal the different perceptions and experiences of cancer patients with regard to the announcement of the diagnosis of cancer by healthcare professionals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This descriptive qualitative study was done in 2022. The participants were selected from cancer patients cases treated in the Fès-Meknès Region. Participants in this study were 35 patients selected using a purposeful sampling method. Data were collected using in-depth semi-structured interviews. The qualitative content analysis approach was used to analyze the data using Atlas.ti software.

RESULT:

A double suffering has been observed among cancer patients with regard to the announcement of their cancer diagnosis. In addition to the intensification of negative feelings and distress at the time of the announcement, dissatisfaction has been observed with the way in which the cancer diagnosis is communicated. The announcement does not address the holistic needs of the cancer patient, particularly with respect to health literacy. This finding is justified by limitations in relation to the basic training of the medical and nursing cops with regard to the announcement of the diagnosis.

CONCLUSION:

This event represents a critical moment, requiring a multidisciplinary approach and involving various professionals involved in cancer management. Health professionals need to develop the skills necessary to accurately but smoothly announce a cancer diagnosis in order to maintain hope regardless of prognosis. Thus, an indispensable aspect to take into account in diagnostic communication is the cancer patient’s level of literacy.
Preventive behaviors and psychological effects of COVID-19 and their associated factors among Iranian older adults: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Afshari Nasab Farokhbod , Darvishpour Azar , Mansour-ghanaei Roya , Gholami-Chaboki Bahare
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

The spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic caused a variety of psychological complications. One way to control the spread of this pandemic is compliance with health protocols and standards. Considering the limited research into the psychological effects of COVID-19 and the preventive behaviors among older adults, this study aimed to determine these variables and their relationship with associated factors.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 153 older adults who were referred to the clinic of Pirouz Hospital in the east of Guilan, in the north of Iran, in 2022. The research instruments included the Impact of Event Scale-Revised (IES-R) and the preventive behavior questionnaires. Descriptive (mean, standard deviation, frequency, and percentage) and inferential (Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney tests) statistics were used to analyze the data using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software version 20 with a significant level of 0.05.

RESULTS:

The findings showed that the overall mean score for preventive behaviors was 107 ± 10.38. The highest mean score of preventive behaviors was related to personal behavior (43.00 ± 5.58) and instructions to enter the house (30.15 ± 4.84), respectively. The highest mean scores of psychological effects were related to the intrusion dimension (11 ± 5.33) and avoidance dimension (7 ± 4.74), respectively. There was a significant relationship between drug use (F = 27.136,P= 0.028) and the psychological effects of COVID-19.

CONCLUSION:

Based on the results, the general condition of the preventive behaviors of older adults was average, and the majority of them were at a normal level of psychological effects. However, administrators and health policymakers should consider planning to develop interventions to encourage and improve preventive behaviors against COVID-19, especially among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A quilting sutures technique for flap closure in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy for the prevention of seroma: A single-center, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meena Satya Prakash , Bishnoi Sumit , Badkur Mayank , Lodha Mahendra , Vishnoi Jeewan Ram , Sharma Naveen
Published: July 2024

Seroma formation is a common adverse event following modified radical mastectomy, and it leads to delayed wound healing and increased post-operative pain and increases overall morbidity of patients. The quilting sutures as a newer technique for the skin flap closure is done to reduce incidence of seroma formation. Although it has controversy in the literature for the satisfactory outcome, the study has aimed to compare the Quilting suture technique with the conventional closure method to evaluate the efficacy of the quilting technique. The primary objective of the study was to access and compare the frequency of seroma formation following the quilting suture technique with standard flap closure in MRM. The secondary objectives were to compare drain output, post-operative complications, and the requirement of additional procedures for management of related complications. The 72 female participants in this randomized control trial had modified radical mastectomy after being diagnosed with breast cancer. The quilting suture technique was applied in the 36 patients and conventional technique applied in 36 patients for skin flap closure. The frequency of seroma formation and other complications were reported. Between the two groups, there was no statistically significant difference in the frequency of seroma production (P = 0.233). Total drainage volume (P = 0.213), drainage duration (P = 0.652), and post-operative complications (P = 0.641) did not substantially differ between the two groups. The study concludes that the quilting sutures technique does not decrease the incidence of seroma formation, total drain output, and total duration of drainage. There is no significant difference in complications and requirement of additional procedures compared to the standard technique.
A comparative study of readiness and confidence in online teaching among faculty members in health and non-health colleges within the United Arab Emirates
Authors: Mosleh Sultan M. , Kasasbeh Mohammed A. , Alrimawi Intima , Sawalha Murad A. , Elshatarat Rami A. , Saifan Ahmad R. , Azizeh Saed , Yacoub Mohammed I. , Eltayeb Mudathir M. , Mohamed Nermen A.
Published: July 2024

INTRODUCTION:

This study explores and compares the levels of readiness and confidence among faculty members in health and non-health colleges regarding online teaching in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and utilized a comprehensive survey instrument. A convenience sampling method was employed to enlist 412 faculty members from varied academic disciplines, comprising 278 from non-health programs and 134 from health programs. These participants offered valuable insights into their levels of preparedness and confidence for engaging in online teaching.

RESULTS:

The study uncovered nuanced differences in readiness and confidence levels between health and non-health colleges regarding online teaching preparedness. Significant gender-based variations were found, with female participants in health colleges reporting lower readiness (mean = 4.13) and confidence (mean = 4.11) compared to their counterparts in non-health colleges (mean = 4.43; mean = 4.52) (out of 5) (P < 0.05). Male participants in non-health colleges demonstrated higher readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Academic rank and teaching experience (>5 years) positively influenced readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Marital status, spouse working status, and years teaching online showed no significant differences. Teaching multiple online courses before and during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly enhanced readiness and confidence (P < 0.05). Professional development before and during the COVID-19 pandemic did not yield significant differences.

CONCLUSION:

The study contributes to the existing literature on online education, offering valuable insights into the specific challenges and opportunities faced by faculty in health and non-health colleges. The results inform decision-making processes for educational institutions and policymakers in the UAE, emphasizing the evolving global landscape of online teaching.
A systematic review of programs and interventions for reduction of sickness absence in nursing staff with work-related musculoskeletal disorders
Authors: Sepehrian Razieh , Aghaei Hashjin Asgar , Farahmandnia Hojat
Published: July 2024

Negative consequences of musculoskeletal pain and injuries on the nurses’ health and well-being can increase job dissatisfaction and impose high costs on healthcare centers due to lost workdays and compensation claims. This study aimed to identify policies, programs, and interventions that might be effective in the prevention and reduction of sickness absence and improvement of work outcomes in nursing staff with these problems. The systematic review was conducted according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases were searched up to November 9-23, 2022. The keywords “musculoskeletal disorders”, “nurse”, “return to work”, “sickness absence”, and “sick leave” and their equivalents were combined using Boolean operators OR/AND. Reference lists of eligible literatures were also screened to identify related studies. In this study, a total of 3365 records were retrieved. After two rounds of screening, 15 studies were selected for qualitative synthesis. These studies included seven randomized controlled trial, five pre-post studies, two cohort, and one cross-sectional. Six types of interventions identified including back college, early workplace-based intervention, physical activity/training, psychosocial education, multifaceted intervention, and ergonomics program. There is insufficient evidence to identify effective interventions in preventing and reducing sickness absence, and improvement of work outcomes in nursing personnel with work-related musculoskeletal disorders. Numerous factors affected the occurrence of such disorders, and their consequences, therefore comprehensive strategy tailored to the injured person’s needs should be considered.
Tehran private hospitals—identifying and prioritizing factors affecting employer branding
Authors: Saghari Sam , Safavi Mahboobeh , Khalesi Nader , Mirzaei Abasat , Begloo Amin G.
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Employer branding (EB) is a collection of ideas and beliefs that influence the perspectives of current and prospective employees regarding an organization and their employment experiences, serving as a strategic tool in the competition to attract talent. Positive EB can help retain current employees and attract new talents, making it an important issue in human resource management. This study aimed to identify and prioritize the factors affecting the EB of private hospitals in Tehran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study is applied in purpose and descriptive and analytical in terms of data analysis. Eleven hospitals were selected from 55 private hospitals in Tehran using non-probability and theoretical sampling methods. An expert from each hospital was purposively selected and interviewed. The experts held doctoral degrees in medical specialties and hospital administration experience. In-depth, unstructured interviews with experts constituted the primary method of data collection. Theoretical saturation was reached following the interview with the 11th expert. The entire research process lasted one year, from 2021 to 2022. The method of pairwise comparison matrix with triangular fuzzy numbers was utilized to rank factors contributing to hospital EB.

RESULTS:

By using a fuzzy method of identification and prioritization, it was found that the most significant factors influencing the EB of private hospitals in Tehran were the level of industry competitiveness, an empowering work environment based on a coaching approach, cooperation with strong suppliers of drugs and hospital and surgery consumables, a generation-based focus on value, and a competitive advantage in EB.

CONCLUSIONS:

This study provides valuable insights into the factors that contribute to EB in private hospitals in Tehran, which can be used to inform health policy making. The identified factors, such as industry competitiveness, an empowering work environment, and cooperation with strong suppliers, can help private hospitals attract and retain talented employees, ultimately improving the quality of healthcare services provided in the region.
Effectiveness of E-learning on “Sexual Health” among students of Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences based on the Kirkpatrick model
Authors: Mirmoghtadaie Zohreh Sadat , Mahbadi Zahra , Mahbadi Zinat
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Implementing educational programs such as E-learning is highly low-cost and highly effective. The aim was to design and implement a sexual health education program to enhance female students’ knowledge based on the Kirkpatrick model.

MATERIAL AND METHODS:

This study was a quasi-experimental intervention study conducted on 60 female students of the Medical Ethics course at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences based on the Kirkpatrick model. After needs assessment and determining the course syllabus, the teaching content was produced electronically and made available to the research population after scientific (Women’s Group) and technical (E-Learning Group) approval. Data analysis was performed based on Mann–Whitney U test and independent t-test through SPSS version 26.

RESULTS:

The mean (standard deviation) scores of the Kirkpatrick level 2 measurement (learning) of the participants increased from 15.34 (4.89) before the intervention to 16.88 (5.20) after intervention (P < 0.001), which was statistically significant. The participants’ satisfaction rate with the educational content was 86%, with the course duration was 94.4%, with the educational facilities and equipment was 85.4%, and with the presentation method and attractiveness of the materials was 86.3%. In total, the participants’ satisfaction rate with the electronic course was 88%.

CONCLUSIONS:

The results of this study indicated a positive impact of the course on students’ knowledge regarding sexual issues, and the students overall expressed satisfaction with this electronic course. Therefore, it is recommended to implement this course extensiver in other universities considering the advantages of E-learning.
Very Young Onset Behavioral Variant Frontotemporal Dementia: A Case Series
Authors: Dar Nizam Ud Din , Hussain Tajamul , Bhat Aijaz Mohiuddin , Gania Abdul Majid , Bhat Jahangeer Ahmad , Bhat Javid Iqbal
Published: July 2024

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a clinical syndrome characterized by progressive changes in personality, behavior, and/or language with relative sparing of memory/learning. The behavioral variant of FTD (bvFTD) typically presents with insidious onset of changes in personality and behavior with a gradually progressive course. Such presentation can be easily attributed to other psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder, or mood disorders. The most common age of presentation of bvFTD is in the fifth or sixth decades of life. However, in this case series, we present two rare cases of very early onset bvFTD with the onset of symptoms as early as third decade of life who were misdiagnosed as other psychiatric disorders.
Assessment of mental health and food service satisfaction of the elderly in old-age homes in and around Vadodara
Authors: Garg Neha , Chauhan Komal
Published: July 2024

Background:

Aging causes changes in the sensory and dental problems of an individual. For the elderly, eating is not only an important activity for the maintenance of life but also a great pleasure, and therefore, the desire to eat their favorite food becomes a source of motivation to get out of bed and improve their quality of life.

Materials and Methods:

The current study was framed to examine the mental health and food service satisfaction (FSS) of residents under three domains (diet, food service, and food safety) staying in old-age homes (OAHs) in and around Vadodara. A purposive sampling design was used where consent was obtained from nine OAHs in and around Vadodara and the elderly (n = 123). Assessment of mental health was made using standard tools such as the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), mini-mental state examination (MMSE), and six-item cognitive impairment test (6CIT), whereas the FSS of residents was assessed by a validated semi-structured questionnaire.

Results:

The elderly enrolled in charitable and private institutes were 54% and 46%, respectively. The mean age of participants was 75.07 ± 9.22 years, GDS was 4.13 ± 4.67, MMSE was 23.24 ± 6.37, 6CIT was 8.02 ± 8.20, and FSS of residents was 25.89 ± 5.32, respectively. The prevalence of severe depression (100%) and poor FSS (66.7%) was found more in females than male elderly. 6CIT and FSS of residents showed a significant association (P < 0.05) with the type (private or charitable) of OAHs, showing the prevalence of impaired cognition and poor FSS higher among the charitable OAHs elderly than private homes. FSS of residents was highly significantly correlated (P < 0.05) with GDS, MMSE, and 6CIT of the elderly. Severely depressed elderly showed a significant association (P < 0.05) with severe cognitive impairment and poor FSS. Dependency in the elderly showed a significant association (P < 0.05) with severe cognitive impairment. Poor FSS of residents was significantly associated (P < 0.05) with charitable homes.

Conclusion:

FSS is affected by the poor mental health of the elderly. Thus, administrative staff of OAHs are suggested to assist with better diet, food service, and food safety for supporting the health and well-being of the elderly.
Effectiveness of Moringa oleifera Mouthwash in Young Adults as an Anti Plaque Agent – An Interventional Study
Authors: Sultana Amra , Tasneem Anam , Krishnappa Pushpanjali , Shwetha K. M.
Published: July 2024

Background:

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the oral cavity’s supportive structures, including gums and surrounding bone. Herbal mouthwashes have phytopharmacological agents such as Moringa oleifera (MO), and the use of herbal mouthwash has increased. Moringa mouthwash has potential for oral health due to its biocompatibility and anti-inflammatory effect. This study compares the effect of chlorhexidine gluconate (CHX) and moringa mouthwash on plaque and its reduction.

Methodology:

The in vitro tests included the determination of minimum inhibitory concentration using broth dilution and agar diffusion. This interventional study included 25 individuals with more than 1 plaque score. The study was conducted for 2 months with a washout period of 2 weeks between the use of both mouthwashes. The Quigley–Hein Plaque Index of the study subjects was recorded at the designated baseline and after 28 days of use throughout the study period. The statistical test used was the Wilcoxon signed-rank test, and the level of significance was considered to be <0.05.

Results:

The results showed that the reduction in the mean plaque scores from baseline to day 28 was statistically significant in the moringa-based mouthwash. Similarly, the index scores showed a statistically significant reduction following the use of the moringa-based mouthwash when compared with the gold-standard chlorhexidine mouthwash with P = 0.00. The comparison showed that MO offered the same improvement as CHX.

Conclusion:

The current study aimed to provide an insight role of MO mouthwash as a possible adjunctive oral hygiene aid and its inhibitory effect on plaque reduction when compared to CHX.