bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the predictive power of constructs of extended Pender's health promotion model and some background factors in fruit and vegetable consumption behavior among government employees
Authors: Khatti-Dizabadi Freshteh , Yazdani-Charati Jamshid , Amani Reza , Mostafavi Firoozeh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Daily consumption of fruit and vegetable (F and V) can effectively reduce the risk factors of cardiovascular diseases; therefore it is necessary to identify the factors affecting this behavior. This study aimed to determine the Predictive Power of Pender's Health promotion model (HPM) constructs in F and V consumption behavior and the effects of some background variables on this behavior.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A descriptive-correlation study was conducted on 418 employees working in different offices of Qaemshahr, Mazandaran Province from April 8, 2019, to July 23, 2019. The participants filled out a questionnaire about perceived F and V Consumption behavior based on Pender's HPM Constructs. The data were statistically analyzed by descriptive statistics and parametric tests, including the Pearson correlation, Independent– Sample t-test, One-Way analysis of variance test, and multiple linear regression, in SPSS-22.

RESULTS:

The mean age of participants was 40.25 ± 7.56 years. The results showed that F and V consumption behavior was positively correlated with some constructs of Pender's HPM including, behavioral outcome (r = 0.51, P < 0.001), previous related behavior (r = 0.48, P < 0.001), commitment to action (r = 0.47, P < 0.001), perceived self-efficacy and behavior-related emotions (r = 0.39, P < 0.001). Behavioral outcome alone explained 26% of the dependent variable changes (F and V consumption behavior). The results also indicated that there was a significant relationship between gender and F and V consumption behavior (P = 0.01).

CONCLUSION:

The study findings demonstrated that some of Pender's HPM Constructs could predict F and V consumption behavior. Behavioral outcome alone was a strong predictor of this behavior. Therefore, in addition to background variables, these constructs should be taken into account in the development of training interventions and courses.
A comparative study into the effects of topical hot salt and hot sand on patients' perception of low back pain
Authors: Etemadifar Shahram , Dehghan Morteza , Jazayeri Tahereh , Javanbakhtian Raheleh , Rabiei Leili , Masoudi Reza
Published: February 2024

BACGROUND:

Low back pain (LBP) has been regarded as one of the musculoskeletal problems which is affecting more than three-quarters of individuals in their lifetime. Nowadays, various pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies are employed for relieving and treating LBP. This study was conducted to compare the effects of topical hot salt and hot sand on patients' perception of LBP.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this, quasi-experimental study patients with LBP referring to the orthopedic clinic of Shahrekord educational hospital were divided randomly into two interventions and one control group in 2020. All three groups were received naproxen cream and daily physiotherapy in the same manner, the interventional groups in addition either topical hot salt or topical hot sand. Data gathering tool for measuring patients' perception of LBP was the McGill Pain Short Form Questionnaire to be completed at the beginning, immediately at the end, and 2 months after the intervention. The data were analyzed using SPSS statistical software (version 21.0).

RESULTS:

Totally, 90 patients were randomized based on the table of random numbers (mean age 51.1 + 11.1), and finally, 87 patients completed the study. Patients' perception of LBP before the intervention was homogenous in hot salt, hot sand, and the control group The mean score of total pain experience before the intervention was 14.1 ± 11.3 for hot sand, 13.9 ± 10.7 for hot salt and 13.7 ± 10.1 for control group The mean scores of these three groups were not significant before the intervention (P > 0.05). The mean score of total pain experience immediately after the intervention was 6.7 ± 4.2 for hot sand, 5.2 ± 3.1 for hot salt and 13.9 ± 9.8 for control group. The mean scores of the hot sand group and the hot salt group were significantly decreased compared with control group (P > 0.05). The mean score of total pain experience two months after the intervention was 5.6 ± 3.27 for hot sand, 4.21 ± 2.14 for hot salt and 13.8 ± 10.4 for control group. Mean score of total pain experience in both intervention groups had significantly reduced two months after the intervention compared to control group (P ≤ 0.001); so that the effect of hot salt treatment on reducing total pain experience was larger than hot sand (P ≤ 0.001). The same trend was observed for VAS and Present pain intensity variables.

CONCLUSIONS:

The findings have revealed that the topical treatments with hot salt and hot sand could have a significant effect on the perception of LBP compared to those in the control group; whereas hot salt might be stronger effects than hot sand on reducing LBP.
Validity and reliability
Authors: Behrouzian Forouzan , Tazik Khalil , Asl Esmaeil Mousavi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Impulsiveness is a multidimensional and multifaceted construct that plays an important role in understanding various psychopathology and problematic behavior. It is necessary to study the psychometric properties of instruments in the new culture before its scientific application, and it also contributes to external validity. The current study was conducted to determine the psychometric properties of the Persian version of Short Form of the Impulsiveness Questionnaire UPPS-P (SUPPS-P) in a sample of male soldiers serving in the military service.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present research design is cross-sectional in 2019–2020. The Iranian version of the SUPPS-P was prepared across forwarding translation, reconciliation, and back-translation. The research sample included 254 soldiers who were selected via convenience sampling method and completed a set of scales, including the SUPPS-P scales, short-form self-compassion scale, McLean Screening Instrument for Borderline Personality Disorder (MSI-BPD), Cognitive Flexibility Inventory (CFI), Perth Alexithymia Questionnaire (PAQ), and the Deliberate Self-harm Inventory (DSHI). The construct validity of SUPPS-P scale was measured using confirmatory factor analysis and convergent and divergent validity. For reliability, Cronbach's alpha and test–retest reliability (with 2 weeks interval) were used. Data were analyzed using LISREL software (version 8.8) and SPSS version 22.

RESULTS:

The results showed that the SUPPS-P scale is a reliable and valid scale with acceptable internal consistency and acceptable test–retest reliability among soldiers. In terms of convergent validity, SUPPS-P showed a significant positive correlation with measures of MSI-BPD, PERS, and DSHI. SUPPS-P showed a negative correlation with self-compassion and cognitive flexibility, thus demonstrated a good divergent validity. The results of this study also provide support for the five-factor model of the SUPPS-P scale.

CONCLUSION:

The SUPPS-P instrument showed acceptable validity and reliability and could be useful in assessing impulsivity in Iranian society. The SUPPS-P scale shows notable promise as a measure for use in impulsivity research and clinical settings.
Health-care workers’ experience of stressors and adaptation strategies for COVID-19
Authors: Atashi Vajihe , Abolhasani Shahla , Afshari Atefeh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The mental health of health-care workers with their unique role in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic is strictly essential. Hence, to react effectively to the pandemic, it is essential to collect further data on the stressors and adaptation strategies. The aim of this study is to explain the health-care workers' experiences of stressors and adaptation strategies used during the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

A qualitative content analysis approach was employed in this study, with semi-structured in-depth interviews. Nineteen health-care workers participated in the study by purposeful sampling method. The study setting included selective educational hospitals that admitting patients infected with COVID-19. The data were analyzed using content analysis method.

RESULTS:

Stressors were classified under four major categories: idiopathic, i.e., arising from unknown causes, individual and familial, stressful work environment, and socially imposed stressors. The adaptation strategies were classified under inactive and active adaptation strategies.

CONCLUSIONS:

The stressors include the stresses arising from the unknown nature of the disease, stressful work environment, individual and familial stresses, and the socially imposed stresses. The adaptation strategies include inactive and active adaptation strategies. Identification of these factors can help workers and management to effectively react to the pandemic.
A cross sectional study to assess the expressed COVID-19 preventive practices among the health care workers and public visiting tertiary care hospital, AIIMS, Jodhpur
Authors: Sharma Mukesh C. , Raghu V. A. , Balai Manish K.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The corona virus disease-2019 (COVID-19) infection is a current public health crisis, and it is challenging to the world health-care system. As there is no treatment, prevention is the crucial importance to break the chain of transmission of infection and prevent fatality among the high-risk populations. The aim of the study was to assess the Expressed COVID-19 preventive practices among health-care workers (HCWs) and the public visiting tertiary care hospital, AIIMS, Jodhpur.

METHODOLOGY:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 406 HCWs and 238 public, recruited by convenient sampling technique. A validated and pretested self-structured practice questionnaire used to collect the data regarding COVID-19 preventive practice. The data were collected through online Google Forms and interview techniques and analyzed by software SPSS 26 version.

RESULTS:

Majority of 87.7% HCWs and 76.5% public always followed practice of hand wash with soap and water and sanitize for 20 s. Majority of 79.6% HCWs and 49.2% public maintain social distance in public place. Gender (χ
2 = 18.806 P ≤ 0.001) and education (χ
2 = 43.270 P ≤ 0.001) among HCWs and in public demographic variable income (χ
2 = 21.102 P = 0.002), religion (χ
2 = 13.302 P = 0.006) and source of information (χ
2 = 17.030 P = 0.026) was significantly associated with level of COVID-19 preventive practice.

CONCLUSION:

The study showed moderate level of COVID-19 preventive practice among HCWs and public. Based on this result, an effective IEC intervention programs can be designed to educate public and HCWs and follow a safe COVID-19 preventive practice.
Factors associated with the knowledge about breastfeeding among antenatal and postnatal women in selected rural villages of Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Rushender Rajan , Krishnamoorthy Yuvaraj , Hussain Siraja Ameenah Anwar
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Addressing good breastfeeding practices among antenatal and postnatal mothers is important as it helps in bringing about a positive change in the behavior, attitude, and practice with appropriate health education. Hence, this study was done to determine the awareness level of antenatal and postnatal mothers about the breastfeeding practices and benefits and identify the factors associated with it in rural Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

We conducted this community-based cross-sectional study among 377 antenatal and postnatal mothers in the selected rural villages of Chengalpattu between October 2019 and September 2020. Details regarding the sociodemographic characteristics and awareness/knowledge about the breastfeeding were collected using pretested semistructured questionnaire. Knowledge adequacy was summarized as proportion with 95% confidence interval (CI), and factors associated with knowledge were interpreted as adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) with 95% CI using log-binomial regression.

RESULTS:

About 19.6% (95% CI: 15.7%–24.0%) mothers had inadequate knowledge about breastfeeding. Women who were unemployed (aPR = 1.60; 95% CI: 1.02–2.51), belonging to the lower socioeconomic status (aPR = 2.62; 95% CI: 1.80–3.82), belonging to Muslim religion (aPR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14–2.35), and living in joint family (aPR = 1.58; 95% CI: 1.12–2.21) had significant higher risk of inadequate knowledge about breastfeeding practices compared to those who were employed, belonging to puper socioeconomic status, Hindu religion, and living in nuclear family.

CONCLUSION:

We found that almost one-fifth of the antenatal and/or postnatal mothers had inadequate knowledge about the breastfeeding benefits and practices. Health education sessions are required to promote the awareness about breastfeeding during antenatal and postnatal check-ups.
Burnout level in Iranian teachers and its related factors
Authors: Khajehnasiri Farahnaz , khazarloo Lila , Poursadeghiyan Mohsen , Dabiran Sohila
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Promoting the well-being of students and teachers should be the goal of school mental health programs. A large body of evidence has highlighted that there is an emerging concern regarding the increasing stresses that teachers are dealing with. Burnout is a psychophysical state that is characterized by emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalization (DP), and low sense of personal accomplishment (PA). We aimed to assess burnout level in teachers’ population and its correlation with demographic characteristics because it not only can be affected teachers’ health promotion but also student well-being promotion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In the present cross-sectional study, 322 high-schoolteachers from the second district of Tehran were randomly selected and were asked to complete the standard Maslach Burnout Inventory questionnaire to evaluate the three areas of burnout. In addition, participants were interviewed for their demographic status (IR.TUMS.MEDICINE.REC.1397.473).

RESULTS:

The results of this study showed that male teachers exhibit significantly lower score compared with female ones in all three indicators of burnout including EE, DP, and PA (P < 0.05). The number of children teachers and income level in men also influenced all three indices (P < 0.05). Regarding the impact of spouse's job status on burnout in men and women, PA was the only unaffected area (P > 0.05). Nevertheless, none of the demographic characteristics effected burnout domains in female teacher population.

CONCLUSION:

Considering the results of this study that shows the higher burnout level in male teachers and its association with several demographic characteristics such as income level and number of children, special attention should be paid to this gender to reduce possible stress and mental illness.
Effectiveness of training program in manual material handling
Authors: Jari Ameneh , Niazmand-Aghdam Nazi , Mazhin Sadegh Ahmadi , Poursadeghiyan Mohsen , Sahlabadi Ali Salehi
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Even in an era of automation and digitalization, Manual Material Handling (MMH) can be called the most common industrial task. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) induced by manual handling tasks on the workers of a printing factory in Tehran in 2017 and then to evaluate the effectiveness of a training intervention based on health promotion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study had quasi experimental design and was conducted on 40 men. First, demographic data were collected and the Nordic questionnaire was used to determine the prevalence of MSDs in workers. Then, MMH tasks were assessed using Manual Handling Assessment Chart (MAC). A short training course was designed to promote health. Finally, the same MMH tasks were re-evaluated 3 months after the training intervention.

RESULTS:

Among the various tasks, the highest prevalence of work-related MSDs (WMSDs) was observed in the lower back (77.5%) and shoulder (62.5%). Based on the final scores of the MAC method, the jobs that received the highest scores were cutting (individual lifting), with 22 scores and action level “immediately necessary,” cutting (individual load carrying), with 15 scores with action level “urgently needed.” Arranging the forms (individual lifting) received a similar score. After the training intervention, the estimated risk level reduced by 12, 9, and 6 points, respectively, reaching a safe action level, i.e., “necessary in the future.”

CONCLUSION:

The results demonstrated that educational interventions might be equally effective in low-technology work environments. More in general, the MAC method can be used to make informed planning of educational interventions against WMSDs risk in MSDs. This health promotion approach is critical for care of human recourse.
A comparative study on the health-promoting behaviors of patients with and without hypertensive heart disease in Iran
Authors: Baharvand Parastoo , Malekshahi Farideh , Gheydar Nafiseh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Health-promoting behaviors can affect the psychological and physical consequences of hypertension. For the prevention and control of hypertension, lifestyle modification has been recommended. This study aimed to investigate the health-promoting behaviors of patients with hypertensive heart disease in Iran and compare them with those of healthy people.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a descriptive comparative study with cross-sectional design. Participants were 141 patients with hypertensive heart disease (mean age = 39 ± 10.2 years) referred to the cardiac clinic of Madani Hospital in Khorramabad, Iran, and 141 healthy people selected from those referred to the hospital. The Persian version of the revised Health-Promoting Lifestyle Profile-II (HPLP-II) was used to evaluate the health-promoting behaviors of participants. After collecting data, they were analyzed in SPSS v. 22 software using descriptive statistics and statistical tests including independent t-test and one-way ANOVA.

RESULTS:

The overall HPLP-II score was 142.34 ± 30.48 in patients and 150.52 ± 37.07 in controls. The highest and lowest HPLP-II dimension scores in both groups were related to health responsibility and stress management dimensions. There was a significant difference between groups only in dimensions of nutrition (P = 0.017) and physical activity (P = 0.016), and in the overall score (P = 0.044), whose scores were lower in patients compared to controls. The difference in HPLP-II score of patients with different demographic characteristics (marital status, place of residence, gender, age, educational level, and occupation) was not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION:

Patients with heart disease caused by high blood pressure in Iran have poorer diet and physical activity compared to healthy people. Educational interventions with a focus on the importance of dietary regime and exercise are recommended for them.
COVID-appropriate facemask use
Authors: Das Arpita , Chattopadhyay Biswadip , Paul Bobby , Bandyopadhyay Lina , Bhattacharyya Madhumita
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

In the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, facemask use has been the most feasible public health measure in preventing transmission of SARS-CoV2 with the dual benefit of controlling the source of infection and decreasing the risk of acquiring infection from infected people. Therefore, COVID-appropriate behavior regarding facemask use is imperative for controlling the pandemic. This study aimed to assess COVID-appropriate mask behavior and factors associated with it among the patients attending outpatient departments of a public health institute in West Bengal.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was done among 298 patients attending outpatient departments of Rural and Urban Health Units of a public health institute of Kolkata, during October 2020–February 2021. A pretested questionnaire and an observational checklist based on the World Health Organization guidelines were used to collect data. COVID-appropriate mask behavior was assessed by a five-point domain-wise scale, where good practice regarding facemask usage was considered when the score was three or more. Statistical analyses were done in SPSS 16.0.

RESULTS:

Good practices regarding COVID-19 appropriate mask-related activities were recorded among 30.2% of the study participants. No difficulties faced during or on wearing a mask (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 1.86, 95% confidence interval CI: 1.1–3.33) and higher socioeconomic status (AOR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.22–4.15) were significantly associated with good practice regarding COVID-19 appropriate facemask usage.

CONCLUSION:

The magnitude of poor practice regarding COVID-appropriate mask-related behaviors is quite high among the study participants. Awareness regarding correct mask handling, storage, hygiene, disposal, and place of wearing from a reliable source would go a long way to curb the myths and misinformation surrounding mask usage and encourage COVID-appropriate mask behaviors among the general population.
Six-minute walk test and its predictability in outcome of COVID-19 patients
Authors: Klanidhi Kamal Bandhu , Chakrawarty Avinash , Bhadouria Shailendra S. , George Sudeep M. , Sharma Gaurav , Chatterjee Prasun , Kumar Vijay , Vig Saurabh , Gupta Nishkarsh , Singh Vishwajeet , Dey Aparajit Ballav , Mohan Anant , Bhatnagar Sushma
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The world is worsely hit by the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in increased morbidity and mortality. Increased mortality has been observed in older adults with multiple comorbidities. Six-minute walk distance (6MWD) at admission can help us to guide the requirement of oxygen during hospital stay that can be used to determine which patient can be managed at home.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This study was a prospective observational study conducted on COVID-19 patients admitted at AIIMS, New Delhi, from October to December 2020. Patients aged more than 60 years were included in the study and underwent 6-min walk tests. Polypharmacy and multimorbidity were also assessed along with dyspnea which was measured on BORG scale. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Statistical software STATA (version 14.2) was used for all the analyses.

RESULTS:

The mean age of the study population was 68.76 (7.4). Oxygen saturation prior to the 6-MWT was normal and has significantly higher than the post test (P ≤ 0.001). 6MWD was significantly correlated with pre values of oxygen saturation. 6MWD was observed more in patients who did not require oxygen during hospital stay. Self-reported dyspnea, pulse rate, oxygen saturation, and systolic blood pressure were significantly associated with the patients who had an oxygen requirement during the hospital stay.

CONCLUSION:

Self-reported dyspnea after 6MWT was found to be associated with oxygen requirement during hospital stay. Patients who have covered more distance in 6-min walk test have less oxygen requirement during hospital stay hence can be managed at home. This will reduce the health-care burden and will help to tackle the outburst during the ongoing pandemic.
Role of nongovernmental organizations in Iran's health system
Authors: Rajabi Mohanna , Ebrahimi Parvin , Aryankhesal Aidin
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) as entities out of the health sector can play various roles and functions at different levels of the health systems. The present study was conducted to investigate NGOs’ potential and actual functions in Iran's health system.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This exploratory study was carried out in two parts from April 2020 to December 2020 in Tehran, Iran. For the first part, the statute of 65 NGOs was used for document review, and in the second part, the required data were collected using semi-structured interviews with 26 key informants from the governmental sector and NGOs. Data were analyzed using the framework analysis method and MAXQDA software.

RESULTS:

According to data analysis, the results of this study were classified into two sections of NGOs’ current functions and expected functions in Iran's health system. The current functions of NGOs in Iran's health system include service delivery, educational, research, and information activities, financing, supportive and facilitation activities, and advocacy. Other functions in which NGOs could play a role include health system management, education, and service providing and support activities.

CONCLUSION:

In this study, the various roles of NGOs in Iran's health system were explained. NGOs can act actively as the consulting and executive hand alongside the public sector in the lowest to the highest levels of Iran's health system. Hence, health sector managers and policymakers must facilitate NGOs’ involvement in the health sector and use their capacities and capabilities to improve health and increase public access to health-care services.
Pulmonary function test
Authors: Mehrotra Vishal , Sambyal Sheenam , Mishra Gauri , Garg Kriti , Srivastava Rahul , Ishrat Saman
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION:

The study aims to measure and compare pulmonary function tests (PFTs) in oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) patients (smokers/nonsmokers) and normal individuals.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study population included 150 participants that comprised 50 nonsmoker OSMF patients, 50 OSMF patients who smoke as well, and 50 patients with no deleterious habits. Spirometer was used to assess PFT.

RESULTS:

Results showed that a significant P value was obtained for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), FEV1/FVC, peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR), and maximum voluntary ventilation (MVV) and also for the predicted values of FEV, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, PEFR, and MVV in OSMF (smokers/nonsmokers) study groups.

CONCLUSION:

Thus, the decrease in pulmonary function can be an alarming sign for restrictive type of pulmonary disease.
The effect of educational program (based on BASNEF model) on quality of life and adherence to treatment in patients with myocardial infarction in Shahrekord, Iran
Authors: Hatami Hadi , Dehkordi Ali Hassanpour , Tali Shahriyar Salehi , Lotfizadeh Masoud , Ganji Haifeh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Myocardial infarction (MI) is one of the most common cardiovascular diseases affecting quality of life and adherence to treatment. This study aimed at assessing the impacts of an educational program based on the Belief, Attitude, Subjective Norm, and Enabling Factors (BASNEF) Model on quality of life and adherence to treatment in patients with MI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present quasi-experimental study was conducted on eighty patients with MI admitted to hospitals affiliated to Shahrekord University of Medical Sciences in 2019, which were selected by the convenience sampling and then randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The intervention group received a BASNEF model-based educational-supportive intervention including three 45-min training sessions and three months' follow-up individually for each participant. Data were collected by Ferrans and Powers Quality of Life Index (QLI)-Cardiac Version, Modanloo Adherence to Treatment Questionnaire (MATQ) and questionnaire modified based on BASNEF model constructs. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS version. 22 software using the descriptive and analytical statistical test.

RESULTS:

The total score of the MATQ and its subscales had significantly improved in the intervention group after the intervention (P < 0.001). The total score of the QLI and its subscales had significantly improved in the intervention group after the intervention (P < 0.001) In addition, the mean scores of the model constructs had significantly improved after the intervention in the intervention group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION:

The results of this study showed that applying BASNEF model-based educational interventions can lead to improved quality of life and adherence to treatment in the patients with MI. Therefore, this model can be used to reduce the complications of MI.
Multiple-choice questions in assessment
Authors: Vegi Venkata Avinash Kumar , Sudhakar P. V. , Bhimarasetty Devi Madhavi , Pamarthi Kiran , Edara Lokesh , Kutikuppala L. V. Simhachalam , Suvvari Tarun Kumar , Anand Shubham
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

In curriculum reforms under Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) introduced by the National Medical Commission, medical students are recognized as one of the stake holders. The well-designed multiple-choice questions (MCQs) help students in assessment as well as promote deep learning. The objective of this study is to assess the perceptions of the Indian medical students towards the examination patterns in their undergraduate curriculum with particular reference to MCQs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among the medical colleges in India. A total of 7875 students took part in the study. The study instrument was a validated pretested self-administered questionnaire. The study was conducted as an online survey using the Google Forms platform. Inclusion criteria were students from all professional years as well as interns and those who were willing to participate in the study.

RESULTS:

For the question of initiation of MCQs as a tool for the assessment, many of the students (46%) expressed that it should start from the 1st MBBS itself. The majority of the students (85%) felt that MCQ oriented preparation will be helpful for MBBS professional (theory and practical) examinations. Most of the students (90.9%) preferred that the MCQs should be concept and case scenario based. To the question of whether the current system of the university theory examinations of essays and short notes be replaced in total with MCQs so that they are more prepared for NEXT and USMLE examination, 65.5% responded with an answer of yes.

CONCLUSION:

The findings of this study provide input to the regulatory authorities and other stakeholders responsible for designing and implementing the medical curriculum.
Artificial intelligence
Authors: Gupta Amit , Singla Tanuj , Chennatt Jaine John , David Lena Elizabath , Ahmed Shaik Sameer , Rajput Deepak
Published: February 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is the future of surgery. Technological advancements are taking place at an incredible pace, largely due to AI or AI-backed systems. It is likely that there will be a massive explosion or “Cambrian explosion” of AI in our everyday life, largely aided by increased funding and resources spent on research and development. AI has also significantly revolutionized the medical field. The concept of machine learning and deep learning in AI is the crux of its success. In surgical practice, AI has numerous applications in the diagnosis of disease, preoperative planning, intraoperative assistance, surgical training and assessment, and robotics. The potential automation of surgery is also a possibility in the next few decades. However, at present, augmentation rather than automation should be the priority. In spite of the allure of AI, it comes with its own price. A robot lacks the “sixth sense” or intuition that is crucial in the practice of surgery and medicine. Empathy and human touch are also inimitable characteristics that cannot be replaced by an AI system. Other limitations include the financial burden and the feasibility of using such technology on a wide scale. Ethical and legal dilemmas such as those involving privacy laws are other issues that should be taken under consideration. Despite all these limitations, with the way technology is progressing, it is inevitable that AI and automation will completely change the way we practice surgery in the near future. Thus, this narrative review article aims to highlight the various applications and pitfalls of AI in the field of surgery.
Inventory development to assess perceptions and metacognition of dental students toward learning in colleges in Pune, India
Authors: Nair Shruti P. , Shetiya Sahana Hegde , Agarwal Deepti , Rajpurohit Ladusingh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Dental education is considered a challenging and taxing program as on successful completion one is required to attain unique and diverse competencies. There is an established perception that students do not enjoy their experiences in the dental institution and they always demand for certain amendments. Therefore, a dental education perceptions and metacognition assessment tool (DEPMAT) was developed for Indian undergraduate and postgraduate dental students for assessing their learning in Deemed University versus Maharashtra University of Health Sciences in Pune, Maharashtra.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This cross-sectional study was conducted among students of four dental colleges of two types of universities in Pune, India, using a 31-item DEPMAT based on Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure and metacognition awareness inventory using five subscales. Psychometric properties were also tested for this new tool. Data were analyzed using the SPSS software.

RESULTS:

Of 512 participants, 498 (96.88%) students had duly returned the questionnaire. Cronbach's alpha coefficient value for reliability was found to be 0.87 which indicated good internal consistency and test-retest reliability was found to be kw = 0.76, which indicated substantial agreement. Significant difference was found among undergraduates in domains regarding their perception toward academics, infrastructure and learning environment, and health and stress.

CONCLUSION:

This study suggested that the general perception toward learning among final year postgraduate students was positive in both the universities. However, the perception of final year undergraduates toward learning was negative and students have suggested certain amendments in both the universities. This study also suggested the new tool was effective in assessing the attitude of practice of both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Learning out of the box
Authors: Sannathimmappa Mohan Bilikallahalli , Nambiar Vinod , Aravindakshan Rajeev
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Gamification involving application of elements of game play that provides unique opportunities to learners to sail through complex medical concepts is gaining importance in medical education. The current study was aimed at assessing the perception of medical students regarding checkerboard game in enhancing learning process.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The present prospective cross-sectional study was conducted at the microbiology department. The fifth-year medical students of the academic year 2018–19 were the participants. Pre- and post-test scores and self-administered questionnaire regarding effectiveness of the checkerboard game-based learning were used as assessing tools. The data were collected, tabulated, and statistically analyzed using SPSS version 20. The pre- and post-test scores of students were statistically analyzed using paired t test. A descriptive analysis on the 3-point Likert scale of effectiveness survey was measured and expressed in percentages.

RESULTS:

In total, 124 fifth-year medical students participated in the study. Majority (89.5%) of them liked the game, nearly 86% opined that game was enjoyable and created interest. Approximately 88% indicated game helped them to understand the topic, enhanced learning, and thus improved the knowledge. Most students (79%) also believed that game encouraged critical thinking and problem solving, while 75% felt that it improved their communication skills. Around 70% felt that game was also useful for exam preparation and nearly 90% recommended to use the game more frequently.

CONCLUSION:

From the results of the study, it can be concluded that checkerboard game-based learning method is effective in fostering learning process and cognition of medical students in the microbiology course.
Study of outcomes of delay in referral of patients with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Shahbazpour Jafar , Abbasi Mohammad , Eskandari Narges , Aghaali Mohammad , Norouzadeh Reza
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Delay in seeking medical help in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) challenges the patients in terms of diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of delay referral (≥12 h) in patients with AMI.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this retrospective cohort study, the medical records of 252 patients with AMI (2017–2019) admitted to Shahid Beheshti Hospital, Qom, Iran, was reviewed. Data collection tool was a researcher-made data sheet that included demographic characteristics, times, hospitalization costs, risk factors, history of heart disease, results of paraclinical tests, clinical information at the time of admission, and outcomes of delayed referral. Data were analyzed usingt-test, Chi-square, Kaplan–Meier estimator, log-rank test, Cox regression by STATA, and SPSS (version 25).

RESULTS:

The levels of troponin, creatine phosphokinase, lactate dehydrogenase were significantly higher in the delayed referral group (P< 0.05). After treatment, the cardiac ejection fraction was significantly different in the nondelayed referral (41.56 ± 9.16) and the delayed referral group (38.39 ± 11.01) (P< 0.001). There was no significant difference in the percentage of hospital deaths in the groups (P= 0.078).

CONCLUSION:

Delayed referral of patients with AMI is associated with decreased physiological cardiac function, which complicates recovery for these patients.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and associated learning difficulties among primary school children in district Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
Authors: Chawla Gurpreet Kaur , Juyal Ruchi , Shikha Deep , Semwal Jayanti , Tripathi Shailesh , Bhattacharya Sudip
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a considerably common childhood-onset neurodevelopmental disorder, often associated with socio-behavioral and academic difficulties. There is an increased risk for development of a range of future problems such as psychiatric disorders, difficulties in employment, and relationships. The aim of this study was to know the prevalence and determinants of ADHD among primary school children in district Dehradun and to assess the learning difficulties and classroom behavior in these students.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this cross-sectional study, overall, 228 students (aged 6–12 years) studying in a primary school were assessed for ADHD after seeking the written informed consent from their parents. The data were analyzed using Excel sheet and SPSS software (22.0 version). For all qualitative measures, frequency and percentages were calculated, and for quantitative measures, mean and standard deviation were calculated. For analysis of categorical values, Chi-square test was used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of ADHD was found to be 11.8% based on the teacher tool only and 1.75% based on the parent and teacher tools combined. ADHD was found to be significantly more in males. Inattention was the most prevalent subtype of ADHD, and children screened positive for ADHD had significant learning difficulties at various levels.

CONCLUSION:

The possibility of ADHD in students with academic difficulties should not be ignored as children with ADHD usually face significant problems at school such as learning difficulties and have been shown to be at increased risk for a broad range of negative outcomes. Early identification and treatment of ADHD can significantly reduce the rates of some of these poor outcomes. Screening these children in the early years will help the parents, children, teachers, and community at large.
Relationship between fertility characteristics with spiritual intelligence and resilience in infertile couples
Authors: Mokhtari Fatemeh , Torabi Fatemeh , Pirhadi Masoume
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Infertility and the use of assisted reproductive therapies affect infertile couples quality of life. Infertile couples face many physical, psychological, and financial challenges due to having a higher level of spiritual intelligence and resilience will help the infertile couple to adapt to infertility conditions and achieve their therapeutic goals. This study was aimed to determine the relationship between fertility characteristics and spiritual intelligence and resilience in infertile couples.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a cross-sectional study that was conducted in 2020 on 162 infertile couples referring to infertility centers in Isfahan who met the inclusion criteria. Samples were selected by convenience sampling method. Information was gathered using a questionnaire consists of three parts: demographic and fertility characteristics, spiritual intelligence, and resilience. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical methods (t-test, Pearson's correlation coefficient, and Chi-square). P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS:

Pearson's correlation coefficient showed that there was no significant relationship between resilience score and spiritual intelligence score with age, duration of marriage, and duration of treatment (P > 0.05). There was no significant relationship between resilience score and spiritual intelligence score and its dimensions with the level of education and economic status of the family (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS:

There was no significant relationship between demographic and fertility factors with spiritual intelligence and resilience.
Effects of intrathecal and intravenous dexamethasone on complications associated with intrathecal morphine after cesarean section
Authors: Kiasari Alieh Zamani , Aghaei Nahid , Aezzi Goli , Alipour Abbas , Ghavibonyeh Khadijeh
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Pain and nausea and vomiting are of serious complications following the use of opiates after surgery, especially cesarean section. Control of postoperative complications is one of the necessities of quality promotion of health-care system. Medications with few side effects such as corticosteroids including dexamethasone can be an appropriate option. In addition, the route of administration can have a significant effect on the effectiveness of the drug. The aim of the present study was to compare the effects of intrathecal with intravenous dexamethasone in reducing the complications associated with intrathecal morphine after cesarean section.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

The study was a double-blind randomized controlled clinical trial and determined the effect of intrathecal and intravenous dexamethasone on the incidence and severity of complications of intrathecal morphine after cesarean section on 120 patients and its relationship with serious complications after surgery. Descriptive and analytical statistics were used to examine the characteristics of the case and control groups, and STATA SPSS software was used to compare the two groups.

RESULTS:

There was no significant association between the two groups in terms of baseline characteristics. Pain score in the intrathecal injection group was lower than the intravenous injection group, with a statistically significant difference (P= 0.02). In addition, there was a significant association regarding to the incidence of nausea, vomiting, and itching between intrathecal and intravenous injection groups (P= 0.008).

CONCLUSION:

Dexamethasone was effective to reduce opiate complications after cesarean section. Establishing a suitable association between dexamethasone half-life, efficacy, type of use, and time of use can result the best outcomes and promote patients' satisfaction in cesarean section.
Physical Fitness in Children with Thalassemia Major Measured With 6-min Walk Test
Authors: Karthiga T. , Imtiaz G. Yasmeen , Hariharan S.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Thalassemia major is a common type of genetic disorder found in improvement in the medical field, the life expectancy of these children was also increased so there arises a need to promote the quality of life of such patients. A lot of studies concentrate on various aspects of the life of thalassemia major, but no study was done to assess the physical fitness of such children which is quite important to regularize their exercise sessions.

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to find out the physical fitness of children with thalassemia patients.

Materials and Methods:

Nonexperimental study designed with 20 individuals diagnosed with thalassemia in major age groups between 7 and 18 both boys and girls. The outcome measure used in this study was 6-min walk test (6 MWT).

Results:

The mean distance covered in 6 min was 351.3 m on average. There was increase in heart rate and blood pressure after completion of the test, whereas oxygen saturation was found to drop post-6 MWT among these patients.

Conclusion:

Thalassemia major patients are found with this physical fitness when assessed with 6 MWT.
Enhancing healthcare access and malaria management via mobile clinics and phone call services in Nuh district of Haryana, India
Authors: Rahi Manju , Nazmeen Aarifa , Kumar Sanjeev , Yadav Chander Prakash , Kumar Gaurav , Mittal Peeyush , Joy Sam , Sharma Sachin , Baharia Rajendra Kumar , Bhati Gaurav , Goel Pawan , Sharma Amit
Published: February 2024

Background & objectives:

Malaria remains a complex challenge in India due to its diverse epidemiology, multi-ethnic population, and multiplicity of malaria vectors. While progress has been made in reducing malaria nationally, persistent pockets hinder elimination efforts. These challenges include hidden reservoirs, inadequate healthcare, suboptimal surveillance, non-compliance, and subclinical infections. Shortage of grassroot level and primary care health staff, transportation issues and general inaccessibility and unavailability of healthcare services are additional challenges.

Methods:

Mobile healthcare vans have been tried and found useful in enhancing healthcare availability in several health conditions in different settings. Nuh district in Haryana, India is a malaria endemic region; it is indeed one of the districts included by India’s NITI Aayog in the Aspirational Districts Programme, a government initiative that focuses on rapidly transforming and developing the most underdeveloped districts in country. With an aim to improve the healthcare seeking behavior of malaria-endemic community of selected villages of Nuh district, we carried out a study using interventions in two villages of the district, that had mobile malaria clinics and toll-free telephone services in enhancing healthcare access.

Results:

We found that Sangel village had higher literacy rates (60.6%) as compared to 39.4% in Naushera. Similarly, the unemployment rate was higher for Naushera. It the mobile malaria clinic was deployed from December 2019 to July 2020 and a total of 269 phone calls were received from both the villages. A similar number of rapid tests and microscopy smears were examined and all were negative for malaria. The febrile patients were referred to the nearest healthcare facility.

Interpretation & conclusion:

The study shows that the community is open to using these healthcare interventions. These initiatives of mobile malaria clinics and toll-free telephone services can bridge healthcare gaps, especially in malaria-endemic regions, aligning with India’s malaria elimination and equitable healthcare access goals.