bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of Dural Venous Sinus Variations through Three-dimensional Phase-Contrast Magnetic Resonance Venography
Authors: Özkoç Songül Erdem , Çetinçakmak Mehmet Guli , Hattapoğlu Salih 
Published: December 2024

Objective:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomy of dural venous sinus variations through three-dimensional phase-contrast (3D-PC) magnetic resonance venography (MRV). Awareness of the normal anatomical variations of venous sinuses and apparent MRV flow gaps prevent misdiagnosis of dural venous sinus diseases.

Materials and Methods:
The dural venous sinuses were assessed using nonenhanced 3D PC-MRV. Of these 968 patients, 154 were excluded due to venous thrombosis and mass invasion. A total of 814 patients (186 male and 628 female) were included in the study.

Results:
The most common variation of superior sagittal sinus (SSS) was atresia of anterior one-third SSS 19 (2.3%). Other variations were hypoplasia of the anterior half of SSS 2 (0.2%), atresia of posterior one-third of SSS (7, 0.9%), and combined variation of SSS (13, 1.6%). The left transverse sinus was hypoplastic in 224 (27.5%) and aplastic/atretic in 259 (31.8%) cases. The right transverse sinus was hypoplastic in 76 (9.3%) and aplastic/atretic in 57 (7.0%) patients. The combined variation of bilateral transverse sinuses had 42 (5.2%) cases. The left sigmoid sinus was hypoplastic in 22.2% (181) of cases. The right sigmoid sinus was hypoplastic in 60 (7.4%). Two patients had hypoplastic bilateral sigmoid sinuses (0.2%). The right occipital sinus was identified in 20 (2.5%) patients. Left occipital sinus was noted in 2 (0.2%) patients. Duplication or triplication of the occipital sinus is noted in 5 (0.6%) study populations. Straight sinus continued in 13 (1.6%) cases with the right transverse sinus and in 29 (3.6%) patients with left transverse sinus.

Conclusion:
These anatomical variants can be a potential pitfall in the MRV diagnosis of dural sinus variations, especially when there are no supportive imaging features such as brain infarcts or appropriate clinical background. 3D PC-MRV is a great option for patients with gadolinium allergy/renal insufficiency/pregnant patients. We hope this article can add information and assist in preoperative venous analysis for neurosurgeons and neuroradiologists.
Anemia prevention measures in female students in the Islamic Boarding School of Al-Junaidiyah Biru, Indonesia
Authors: Hamid Nur Shadiqah , Ansariadi  , Amiruddin Ridwan , Noor Nur N. , Birawida Agus B. , Stang  
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
Anemia in adolescent girls in particular will have a more serious impact, given that they are future mothers. Therefore, the purpose of preventive measure is to reduce the risk of maternal mortality, stunting, wasting, and low birth weight. This study aimed to determine the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, sources of information, perceived susceptibility, and perceived benefits in relation to anemia prevention measures.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:
This study was carried out using an analytic observational approach with a cross-sectional design. There were a total of 235 female students, and 149 samples of female students at the Islamic Boarding School of Al-Junaidiyah Biru were selected through stratified random sampling. Data analysis was conducted using Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression. Furthermore, the analysis was performed using the STATA program version 14.0.

RESULTS:
The number of female students who had poor preventive measures was 61.74%. Multivariate analysis showed that knowledge [P = 0.001; odds ratio (OR) 4.57; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.90–10.99] and attitude (P = 0.000; OR 12.30; 95% CI: 5.24–28.86) were the most influential factors.

CONCLUSIONS:
The lack of information about iron-source foods, iron enhancers, iron inhibitors, and the recommendation to take blood supplement tablets for female students living in boarding schools will make them have insufficient knowledge in anemia prevention measures. The lack of information sources regarding anemia prevention is a health problem for female students living in boarding schools.
Nurses’ viewpoint of sustaining work despite musculoskeletal pain: A qualitative study
Authors: Sepehrian Razieh , Hashjin Asgar Aghaei , Farahmandnia Hojjat 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
The nursing profession consistently has the highest rates of musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) among occupations due to physical and psychological pressures, leading to an increased number of sickness absences, early retirement, staff shortage, poor health conditions, and need for medical care. Absence among healthcare workers puts the quality of patient care at risk, and increase colleagues’ workload and employer staffing expenses. This study aimed to investigate the viewpoints of Iranian nurses about sustaining work despite musculoskeletal pain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
This study was performed as qualitative research. Data were gathered using purposive sampling through in-depth one-to-one interviews with 21 nurses. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and imported into the computer software MAXQDA 2020. Graneheim and Lundman’s conventional content analysis was performed to analyze the data, and Lincoln and Guba’s recommendations were used to control the trustworthiness of the data.

RESULTS:
A total of 4 main categories and 15 subcategories emerged after several rounds of analyzing and summarizing the data and considering the similarities and differences. These main categories included education, workplace adjustments, supportive culture, and regulations and legislations.

CONCLUSION:
Considering the attitudes of nurses with MSDs on continuing work is important for developing and implementing interventions to facilitate the work for this vulnerable working profession and to promote compliance with these measures. Quantitative studies on the effectiveness of the proposed strategies are required for more scientific evidence.
Surgical site infection following incisional negative pressure wound therapy in lower limb amputation closure: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Meena Satya Prakash , Shetty Spoorthi D. , Badkur Mayank , Lodha Mahendra , Rodha Mahaveer Singh , Chaudhary Ramkaran , Sharma Naveen 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
Major amputations are a standard procedure being done for various etiologies of the lower limb. Surgical site infections often complicate the postoperative outcome of patients. Negative pressure wound therapy has evolved to have a preventive role in SSI. According to the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that compared the wound and overall outcomes of incisional application of NPWT against standard dressing in patients undergoing stump closure following major lower limb amputations. The primary goal was to compare the rate of surgical site infections. The secondary objectives were to compare the postoperative hospital stay, reinterventions, readmission, and mortality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a healthcare institute and included 62 patients who underwent closure of major lower limb amputation stumps. After stump closure, patients were randomized into iNPWT and standard groups for the dressing over the suture line. Surgical site infection and other outcomes were assessed.

RESULTS:
A statistically significant difference was found in the rate of surgical site infection (16% vs 51%, P = 0.003). Also, it appreciated a significant reduction in the number of patients needing reinterventions (26% vs 52%, P = 0.037) and the duration of postoperative hospital stay (5.8 days vs 8.2 days, P = 0.043) in the iNPWT group.

CONCLUSION:
Incisional application of NPWT following lower limb amputations is an effective tool to reduce surgical site infections, the need of multiple reinterventions, the cost of treatment, and hospital stay. We should use this special dressing as a standard protocol for the high-risk patients undergoing stump closure following major amputations; therefore, it can reduce the morbidity of patients.
Academic stress, perceived parental pressure, and anxiety related to competitive entrance examinations and the general well-being among adolescents – A cross-sectional survey from Karnataka, India
Authors: Pienyu Khriebeizonuo , Margaret Binu , D’Souza Anjalin 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
In this competitive world, students undergo various scholastic stress and mental health issues. The scholastic stress has a great impact on students’ life and results in the prevalence of several psychological consequences such as stress-related disorders, anxiety, depression, and nervousness, which disturb their academic performances. Therefore, the present study was conducted to assess academic stress, perceived parental pressure, and anxiety related to competitive entrance examinations and the general well-being among adolescents.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2023 among 570 adolescents who were planning to give competitive entrance examination in Pre-University Colleges of Udupi District, Karnataka, India. The data were collected using Background Proforma, Academic Stress Scale related to Competitive Examination, Perceived Parental Academic Pressure Scale, Westside Test Anxiety Scale, and General Well-being Scale. The purposive sampling technique was used to select Pre-University Colleges, and the adolescents were selected using cluster sampling. The collected data were analysed by Jamovi 2.3.21 software using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS:
The results showed that the majority of adolescents, 490 (86.0%), have high academic stress, 496 (87.0%) experienced high perceived parental pressure, 163 (28.5%) had moderately high anxiety, and 351 (57.7%) have low general well-being. There was no significance difference between class of study and stream of study.

CONCLUSION:
The study concluded that it is essential for the health care professionals to collaborate with parents and teachers to support adolescents and give them a congenial environment that will promote the healthy physical and psychological well-being of the adolescents.
Caregiver burden and quality of life among family caregivers of hemodialysis patients from South India
Authors: Azeez Afina , Ambatipudi Srikant 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
Hemodialysis (HD) patients require assistance from family caregivers in performing daily activities. This additional responsibility may cause caregivers to feel burdened, resulting in a poor quality of life. The current study envisaged assessing the degree of caregiver burden (CB) and quality of life among the primary caregivers of HD patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among conveniently sampled, consenting family caregivers (N = 200) of HD patients in tertiary care dialysis centers in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, India, from March 2022 to May 2022. A structured interview schedule was used to collect sociodemographic data from participants. The caregiver burden and quality of life were assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview and the World Health Organization (WHO) Quality of Life (QoL) BREF scale. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine the association between the variables.

RESULTS:
Fifty-eight percent of the caregivers reported CB. Caregivers with no leisure time (ORadj = 3.29 [95% CI: 1.73–6.41]), perceived financial stress (ORadj = 2.27 [95% CI: 1.16–4.49]), and having comorbidities (ORadj = 2.92 [95% CI: 1.43–6.12]) had an increased odds of experiencing caregiver burden. The CB score was inversely correlated with all domains of QoL. Moreover, the QoL score was lower among family caregivers with CB than those without CB.

CONCLUSION:
The present study highlights a high prevalence of caregiver burden, which negatively impacts the QoL of family caregivers of HD patients. This study opens up new directions for possible policy-making to reduce caregiver burden and improve the QoL of family caregivers.
Knowledge-related iron deficiency anemia among undergraduate nursing female students in the University of Baghdad
Authors: Najm Massara A. , Al-Ganmi Ali Hussein Alek , Hassan Ahmed Fleih 
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND:
Globally, iron deficiency anemia is a problematic nutritional deficiency health-related issue that impacts early-adulthood people such as university students. The aim was to asses female nursing students’ knowledge concerning iron deficiency anemia in the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A cross-sectional survey was carried out from the period of June 18, 2023 to December 20, 2023. Nonprobability (purposive) samples of 100 female nursing students were selected from the second, third, and fourth stages in the College of Nursing, University of Baghdad. Data collection included students’ sociodemographic characteristics, and students’ knowledge questionnaire consists of “20” constructed questions, which included the students’ knowledge about iron deficiency. The knowledge questionnaire has been developed through reading textbooks and review of the literature for the related topic. The data have been analyzed through the application of descriptive and inferential analysis and using SPSS version 26.

RESULTS:
The finding of the study revealed that the level of female students’ knowledge regarding iron deficiency anemia based on the total mean score of M(SD) = 1.33 (0.39) showed a poor level. Also, there is a significant association between students’ age and academic stage with their level of knowledge of iron deficiency anemia, P = 0.028.

CONCLUSION:
The female nursing students at the University of Baghdad had a poor level of knowledge about iron deficiency anemia, and this can be attributed to their academic stage in the College of Nursing. There is a significant association between students’ age and academic stage with their iron deficiency anemia knowledge. Faculty of nursing should increase female students’ health awareness and their understanding, knowledge, motivation, and perception regarding iron deficiency and how to prevent it.
Ventricular Septal Defects in Adults: A Bedside Case Discussion for Residents
Authors: Garg Prerna , Rengan Aatish , Srinivasan Hitesh 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
A young boy presented with palpitations and shortness of breath. He had a history of recurrent chest infections as a child. The clinical approach to such a patient along with correlation from investigations is discussed as a teaching exercise for cardiology fellows in training.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices regarding Predictors of Calorie Labeling among Adults in Abha, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhazmi Amani 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
The implementation of calorie labeling in restaurants has been proposed to improve dietary choices, prompting a need to understand adults’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding its effectiveness.

Objective:
This study aims to assess adults’ KAP and their predictors regarding the implementation of calorie labeling in restaurants.

Methods:
In December 2023, a cross-sectional study using convenience sampling was conducted involving 250 Adults (≥18 years) living in Abha, Saudi Arabia. The participants completed an online validated close-ended questionnaire assessing demographic factors, KAP toward menu calorie labeling. General linear regression analysis was used to examine predictors of participants’ overall calorie labeling KAP levels.

Results:
About 61.2% of participants possessed high calorie-labeling knowledge, 77.2% reported a positive attitude, and 81.2% had good practices. Moreover, 53.2% reported a decrease in eating out frequency, 29.8% indicated a reduction in portion sizes, and 17.0% changed to a healthier lifestyle. A significant association existed between higher knowledge, positive attitudes, and the subsequent adoption of good practices concerning calorie labeling (χ2 = 70.217 and χ2 = 100.457, respectively, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:
These findings may provide valuable insights into the ongoing discourse on the efficacy of calorie labeling initiatives in shaping dietary behaviors.
Assessment of Thyroid Profile in Pregnancy-associated Hypertensive Disorders
Authors: Aziz Farah 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), affect approximately 10.92% of pregnancies globally, with a notable prevalence in Saudi Arabia.

Aims and Objectives:
This study aims to assess the thyroid hormone profile in pregnant women diagnosed with normotensive conditions, gestational hypertension, and preeclampsia.

Material and Methods:
The cross-sectional study includes total of 147 pregnant women, categorized into three groups based on clinical diagnosis: preeclampsia (n=50), gestational hypertension (n=47), and normotensive controls (n=50). Blood pressure was recorded on more than two occasions after 20 weeks of gestation. Proteinuria was assessed using the dipstick method in a 24-hour urine sample. The levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free triiodothyronine (FT3), and free tetra iodothyronine (FT4) were estimated using the ELISA method. Based on the interpretation of laboratory results and clinical conclusion, study subjects were grouped as thyroid dysfunction types. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA followed by Tukeys Honest test at 0.001 level of significance.

Results:
The results indicate significant difference in general characteristics among the three groups at 0.001 level. Overall thyroid profile parameters showed no significant difference among the groups. Mean TSH was increased in all groups with no significant difference. A total of 4% of study subjects in all groups reported subclinical hypothyroidism, whereas 2% reported subclinical hyperthyroidism.

Conclusion:
The study shows that while thyroid profile parameters were elevated in gestational hypertension, there was no significant difference compared to controls. It also found that 4% of participants had subclinical hypothyroidism, and 2% had subclinical hyperthyroidism. The study highlights the need for multicenter research to improve understanding and generalizability of thyroid dysfunction in gestational hypertension.
Assessing the Awareness of Medical Ionizing Radiation Exposure among General Public in Saudi Arabia: Aseer Region
Authors: Alshihri Abdulaziz A. , Hadadi Ibrahim , Alqahtani Basmah , Alshahrani Alanoud , Alahmari Nouf , Assiri Maha , Asiri Shuruq 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective:
This paper aimed to evaluate awareness of medical exposure to ionizing radiation among the general public in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:
A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted. The anonymous electronic questionnaire comprising of 22 questions was classified into three major sections: knowledge, attitudes, and the encountered practices. The questionnaire was distributed to random patients who underwent the medical examinations that involved ionizing radiation. The data were analyzed employing descriptive statistics using SPSS.

Results:
The questionnaire received 143 completed responses, and the analyzed results of this study suggested that the level of knowledge and awareness of medical ionizing radiation exposure among the general public in Saudi Arabia (Aseer region) is inadequate.

Conclusion:
The findings of this study showed that the level of awareness is insufficient and that there is a need for educating the public about the risks associated with medical ionizing radiation exposure.
Using Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems as a Smoking Cessation Method in Al-Baha City, Saudi Arabia: A Community-based Qualitative Study
Authors: Zahrani Yousef , Al Ghamdi Ibrahim 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
Smoking remains a significant public health problem in Saudi Arabia. Reports from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority showed an increasing prevalence of smoking among adult population. Recently, new electronic nicotine delivery systems have emerged and used as possible tools for quitting smoking. Nonetheless, the health-related risks of the electronic nicotine delivery systems have raised concerns, and their effectiveness in promoting smoking cessation remains questionable.

Materials and Methods:
This community-based qualitative study aims to explore the attitudes and experiences of smokers in the Al-Baha Region of Saudi Arabia, regarding the use of the new devices for smoking cessation.

Results:
Ten adult smokers from the local community participated in semi-structured interviews to collect data. Thematic analysis was adopted, with QRS-NVivo 8 used for coding and data management. Findings revealed a low successful rate of smoking cessation among electronic nicotine delivery system users, suggesting these devices may be ineffective in aiding quit attempts. The main motivations to use the new devices included social acceptance, peer influence, desire to quit, and the absence of smoking odor. However, the high nicotine concentrations in these devices appeared to contribute to continued smoking, potentially explaining the low cessation rate. The results also indicated that electronic nicotine delivery systems may not be a reliable tool for smoking cessation in the Saudi population.

Conclusions:
Further large-scale research is needed to evaluate the long-term risks and effectiveness of Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems as a smoking cessation aid and to better understand the factors influencing smoking behavior in different cultural settings.
The Effects of Thyroid Status on Blood Pressure in a Diabetic Patient among the Saudi Population
Authors: Alqahtani Saif Aboud M. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background:
The thyroid hormones are crucial in regulating metabolism, energy production, and the functioning of various organs, including the heart. Imbalances in thyroid hormones can affect cardiovascular health, leading to potential links with blood pressure (BP) and diabetes.

Objective:
The objective of this study was to explore the impact of thyroid status on BP among diabetic individuals in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods:
A comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on the laboratory findings of 11,632 individuals (5764 females and 5868 males) diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. These participants were screened for the effects of thyroid status and BP over 1 year in various regions of Saudi Arabia. Baseline demographic characteristics, hemoglobin A1c, thyroid profile, and BP were included in the screening process. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS statistics.

Results:
Among different age groups, the 41–60 age group predominated, with females representing 44.3% (n = 1974) and males 55.7% (n = 2486). BP was significantly higher in females (P < 0.001). Distinct thyroid profiles were evident, with females having higher free thyroxine levels (1.01 ± 0.16) compared to males (0.99 ± 0.14) (P < 0.001). Abnormal BP prevalence varied across thyroid categories. Primary hypothyroidism in females showed a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension (HTN) (72.5%) than in males (27.5%) (P = 0.002). Subclinical hypothyroidism exhibited gender-based disparities, with 62.2% of females and 37.8% of males having HTN (P < 0.001). Correlation analysis revealed a significant positive association between thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and systolic BP (SBP) (r = 0.29, P = 0.004). Regression analysis indicated TSH as a significant risk factor for higher SBP (B = 0.246, P = 0.001).

Conclusion:
Our study reveals gender-based age and BP variations, emphasizing the link between hypothyroidism and HTN in diabetic individuals. There is a significant positive association between TSH levels and SBP.