bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Cardiovascular wellness in low-resource settings: A mobile app-based risk prediction study among fuel filling station employees in Puducherry district
Authors: Ramadass Divyabharathy , Vasudevan Jyothi , Dsouza Madonna J. , Subramanian Baalaji 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
India is witnessing a significant increase in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), and addressing this requires a comprehensive and multi-faceted approach. The burden of NCDs puts a strain on the healthcare system, requiring an increased focus on preventive measures, early detection, and management of chronic conditions. Adopting a risk-based approach to cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in resource-poor settings offers several economic and social advantages.

Aims and Objectives:
The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of CVD risk factors among fuel filling station employees in the Puducherry district and the 10-year CVD risk prediction score among the study participants with the World Health Organisation package of essential non-communicable (WHO PEN) app and package for resource-poor settings.

Methods:
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among the fuel filling station employees in Puducherry. A universal sampling method was employed. The data were collected using a pilot-tested, predesigned, structured questionnaire and the WHO PEN app was used to estimate the CVD risk score. The data were collected from February 2021 to January 2022 and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Frequency distribution along with the Chi-square test was employed to test statistical significance.

Results:
Out of 212 subjects, 170 (80.2%) were males, out of which 116 (54.7%) were between 40 and 50 years old. Nearly half the participants (48%) had CVD risk scores ranging from 5 to 20%, with an increased prevalence of CVD risk factors, namely, obesity/overweight (65.5%), physical inactivity (58.5%), hypertension (52%), alcohol consumption (51%) and tobacco consumption in any form (25.5%).

Conclusions:
This study sheds light on the sedentary nature of the occupation and the increased prevalence of CVD risk factors among the study participants. It is also evident that the participants had higher CVD risk scores for developing CVDs in the future. Recommendations: The use of mobile-based apps can be used as a feasible strategy to save scarce resources in delivering primary health care. We also propose that the nature of occupation be taken into account as one of the parameters for risk prediction. Risk prediction assessment should be made mandatory during the annual examination of employees.
Comparative efficacy and safety of co-amoxiclav, cefpodoxime proxetil, and levofloxacin in patients with acute uncomplicated bacterial tonsillitis: A prospective, open-label, parallel group study
Authors: Xaviar Suja , Girish K. , Jagannath B. , Das Saibal , Joseph Probin 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
No clinical trials have compared the efficacy and safety of beta-lactam antibiotics and fluoroquinolones in acute uncomplicated bacterial tonsillitis. This study aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of co-amoxiclav (amoxicillin/clavulanic acid), cefpodoxime proxetil, and levofloxacin monotherapy in patients with acute uncomplicated bacterial tonsillitis.

Methods:
This was a prospective, open-label, parallel-group study where 90 patients with acute uncomplicated bacterial tonsillitis were equally divided into three groups to receive either tablet co-amoxiclav 625 mg thrice daily, tablet cefpodoxime proxetil 200 mg twice daily, or tablet levofloxacin 500 mg once daily for five days. The efficacy was assessed by subjective clinical improvement and objective bacteriological cure at the end of treatment. Safety was assessed by monitoring adverse events during the study period.

Results:
Co-amoxiclav, cefpodoxime proxetil, and levofloxacin showed comparable clinical responses on days three and seven; however, on day five, levofloxacin showed a significantly reduced cure rate, but a higher improvement rate, than co-amoxiclav and cefpodoxime proxetil. Bacteriologically, the responses were similar in all three groups at week 1. All drugs were well tolerated with a few self-limiting adverse effects.

Conclusions:
Co-amoxiclav, cefpodoxime proxetil, and levofloxacin showed a comparable clinical and bacteriological cure in acute uncomplicated bacterial tonsillitis and showed a good safety profile.
HIV status of three mining districts of a tribal state in India: Evidence from ICTC data
Authors: Sinha Ratnesh , Raj Rozy , Ranjan Jai , Rana Sumegha , Sharma Rachna , Jha Ravi Ranjan , Kumar Dewesh , Ojha Umesh Kumar , Rana Rishabh Kumar 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Integrated Counselling and Testing Centre (ICTC) diagnose HIV and STIs early, modifies behavior, reduces vulnerability, and data helps in understanding transmission. Despite having low HIV prevalence, Jharkhand is vulnerable. Post Covid19, HIV has increased. This study examined the prevalence of HIV at ICTC facilities in three mine rich districts of Jharkhand and HIV prevalence as per age, geography, regional, and consequences were examined.

Methods:
Secondary data analysis was done for 2019–2022 accessible data of ICTC. Totally, 51,062 individual data were examined. Data analysis comprised parametricity testing while data was entered on Excel spreadsheet. Data were summarized using central tendency assessments and Chi-square tests. Logistic regression assessed HIV-positive outcomes and independent variables. P-value < 0.05 was statistically significant. SPSS 29.0 was used for data analysis.

Results:
Over three years, we recorded 51,508 occurrences, 69% of which were female (35241). Both male and female participants had mean ages of 35.93 ± 14.92 and 27.89 ± 10.67 years, respectively. We found 1.19% HIV prevalence (504/42818) in the ICTC test data. The odds ratio (OR) for HIV positivity was greater in males (3.49, 95% CI: 2.92-4.18) compared to females. HIV prevalence in District Giridih was 4.2% (3.42%-5.26%) with a high risk of HIV positivity (OR 4.24, 95% CI 3.42-5.26). A drop in HIV testing occurred during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Conclusions:
Since females are flooding ICTC, more targeted interventions, especially for younger women, are needed. Despite their lower numbers, men are at higher risk for HIV.
Effects of pandemic on families, parenting stress, and emotional well-being of children in villages under Mugalur Subcentre, Sarjapur PHC, Bengaluru
Authors: Surendran Soumya , Shanbhag Deepthi N , Sebastian Loana Mariyam , Mathews Ben , Harry Joel , Rachel V , Ranjitha GS 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic has not only affected the health status of the population but has also had a serious impact on family dynamics, especially in the relationship between parents and children. Home confinement along with the closures of schools has had a strong negative impact on the psychosocial wellbeing of children. This study assesses the effects of the pandemic on families, parenting stress, and emotional well-being of children in villages under Mugalur Sub-centre, Sarjapur PHC, Bengaluru.

Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was undertaken from January 2022 to April 2022 among parents having children in the age group of 4 to 10 years residing in villages under Mugalur Sub-center, Sarjapur PHC, Bengaluru District. The proportional allocation sampling method was followed to collect data from 210 participants using the effects of questionnaire, parent stress scale, and strength and difficulties questionnaire- parent version.

Results:
Among 210 study participants, 105 (50%) were found to have moderate to high stress due to the pandemic. Parenting stress was found to be high in 40 (20%) parents and moderate in 63 (30%) parents. Assessment of the emotional well-being of children showed that 24 (11.5%) children have clinically significant problems. Significant associations were found between the effect of, parental stress and high parental stress correlated with low emotional well-being of children.

Conclusion:
This study emphasizes the urgent need for targeted mental health support for families, particularly during crises such as the pandemic. Interventions aimed at reducing parental stress and promoting children’s emotional well-being are crucial for mitigating adverse effects and ensuring the long-term well-being of families and communities.
Does early heart rate detection and continuous monitoring have an impact on neonatal resuscitation in newborns with intact cord? – An observational study
Authors: Choudhary Sushil , Singh Arun , Pandey Anurag , Gupta Neeraj , Kumar Anil , Kabisatpathy Swasthi 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Context:
Heart rate (HR) is the most vital parameter to assess hemodynamic transition at birth. ECG is considered a gold standard for HR assessment. New devices with dry electrodes are easy to apply on a wet newborn. However, the utilization of newer technology that captures fast and reliable HR, and its impact on neonate resuscitation are yet to be explored, especially in newborns with intact cords.

Aims:
to detect HR early by dry electrode devices and its impact on neonatal resuscitation.

Settings and Design:
This is an observational study conducted at a tertiary care hospital in India.

Methods and Material:
A portable pulse oximeter, conventional ECG with modified 3 electrodes, and dry electrodes ECG (Neo Beat) were applied to capture HR ECG and Sp02. First reliable HR and outcomes of neonates were compared.

Statistical Analysis Used:
Median (IQR) was calculated for quantitative data. These were conducted using an updated version of IBM SPSS Statistics 22 software.

Results:
Out of 329 newborns, 24 newborns had their first documented HR of less than 100 bpm, out of which 14 (58%) initiated respiration with initial steps and the rest 10 required resuscitation (42%) in the form of positive pressure ventilation. Among newborns with a first HR of more than 100 bpm, 8 newborns (2.6%) required resuscitation. The median duration to capture the first reliable HR using dry electrodes was 15 sec (IQR 12.7–20 sec), which was much faster than the time required by conventional ECG (37 sec) and pulse oximetry (80 sec).

Conclusions:
First reliable HR can effectively predict the need for neonatal resuscitation. Dry electrode ECG can effectively capture continuous and reliable HR. HR trends can further assist in predicting the need for neonatal resuscitation and the efficacy of neonatal resuscitation.
Mental health for the indigenous population in Chhattisgarh, India: Navigating challenges and crafting solutions
Authors: Thakur Monika , Bhardwaj Namrata , Suchandra Hari Hara , Kumar R Arun , Pushpa K , Harshitha Nisha R. , Satish Suhas , Jain Sumi , Govindan Radhakrishnan , Manjunatha Narayana , Kumar Channaveerachari Naveen , Math Suresh Bada 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
The ST population, residing in isolated, underdeveloped areas, faces significant health disparities compared to non-tribal communities. In particular, the lack of mental health infrastructure in these regions exacerbates their health challenges. Tribal communities possess distinct cultural beliefs surrounding health and illness, yet scant information exists regarding their physical and mental well-being. In addition, limited access to mental health services prevails, and many tribal individuals opt for traditional healing methods.

Methodology:
This study is part of the “Tele-mentoring for Rural Health Organizers of Chhattisgarh (TORENT)” project, which aims to equip rural health organizers and community health officers (CHOs) with training to screen, identify, counsel, refer, and follow up with community members facing mental health issues.

Results:
Covering 27 districts in Chhattisgarh, this study enlisted trained CHOs to employ the MERIT tool for mental health screenings. Among the tribal population, the study unveiled elevated rates of tobacco and alcohol use, anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and substance use disorders. Challenges in seeking professional help were widespread, driven by transportation difficulties and limited awareness. Field visits (77%) played a pivotal role in identifying cases, alongside self-referrals and referrals by Mitanin or ASHA workers. Notably, a significant proportion had a family history of alcohol use, with a preference for a locally brewed liquor called Mahua.

Discussion:
This study provides vital insights into the mental health status of Chhattisgarh’s tribal populations. It underscores their socioeconomic challenges, high prevalence of substance use disorders, and barriers to accessing mental health services. The study highlights the importance of delivering mental health care within tribal communities, emphasizing the engagement of locally available primary care health workers. Furthermore, it advocates for an integrated approach that acknowledges the role of faith healers in tribal communities’ mental health care.
Evaluation of antibiotic consumption using WHO -antimicrobial consumption tool and AWaRe classification
Authors: Birdie Wahlang Julie , Syiem Reuben P. , Sarkar Chayna , Lyngdoh Nari M. , Tiewsoh Iadarilang , Brahma Dhriti K. , Surong Aitilutmon , Langstieh Arky J 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Antimicrobial resistance is a public health concern with global ramifications. Antibiotic misuse and overuse, are rampant in our country but more alarming is the data on the use of antibiotics primarily because of lack of access is another threat. A majority of the data on drug sales and consumption in India comes from the private sector and is typically gathered from private commercial organization. Because data on antibiotic usage in India is rarely reported, the study’s objectives were to estimate antibiotic consumption in ICU patients and also to assess antibiotic usage trends using the WHO AWaRE classification.

Materials and Methods:
A prospective observational study was carried out in the ICU department for six months after obtaining institutional ethics committee approval (P14/2021/14). In-patient records and details on antibiotic prescriptions were collected from the day of admission until they were discharged from the intensive care unit. Data on antibiotic consumption were retrieved from the hospital pharmacy. Descriptive statistics such as frequency, percentages, and means were used to summarize the data. Microsoft Excel 2016 was used for all statistical analyses.

Results:
The results of the study showed that female patients (54%), made up a significant majority of those receiving antimicrobial treatment. The age group between 40–49 years (21.68%) was the most common for those receiving antimicrobial treatment. Surgical prophylaxis (37.34%) emerged as the most common indication. Among the different antimicrobials studied, ceftriaxone 1 gm (108.5 DDD) emerged as the most prescribed antimicrobial. The access group of antibiotics accounted for 55% of the total usage.

Conclusion:
Appropriate use of antibiotics is important to minimize the risk of adverse events and antimicrobial resistance.
How depression impacts on road traffic accidents among older adults and elderly Indians: Evidence from large scale nationally representative survey
Authors: Halder Pritam , Joshua Immanuel , Saha Sayan , Kolachala Abhinav C. S. , Gupta Risha , Mamgai Anshul , Kaur Sukhmeen , Chattopadhyay Ankita , Pal Saumyarup , Bisoi Sayani , Rathor Shivani 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
With increased urbanization the prevalence of important public health problems like road traffic accidents (RTA) and depression are surging. This study was aimed to determine the association between RTA and depression among Indian population aged ≥45 years.

Methods:
Using Longitudinal Aging Study in India (LASI) dataset (April 2017–December 2018), we have conducted this study among older adults (45–59 years) and elderly (≥60 years) Indians. Bivariate analysis was conducted to estimate the prevalence of RTA and depression nationally and across aspirants, achievers, and front runner states. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted between RTA and depression, adjusted with demographic and socioeconomic; health related and behavioral factors. P value <0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Results:
Prevalence of RTA was 1.84 (1.74-1.94)% nationally, highest among achiever states (2.04 (1.82–2.30)%). Prevalence of depression was 6.08 (5.90–6.26)% nationally, highest among aspirant states (7.02 (6.74–7.30)%). The adjusted odds of having accident was significantly 1.75 times higher among depressed (aOR 1.75, 95% CI 1.44–2.13) than non-depressed participants which was highest across front runners (aOR 1.86, 95%CI 1.26–2.72) followed by aspirant states (aOR 1.79, 95%CI 1.37–2.33).

Conclusion:
This study established the association between depression and road traffic accidents among older adults and elderly. Therefore, efforts must be taken to address mental health issues specially focusing on depression in them with proper policy implication more focused on front runners followed by aspirant states.
The Effect of Low-Level Laser Therapy on Accelerating Tooth Movement in Orthodontic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Alam Mohammad K. , Hajeer Mohammad Y. , Alanazi Dalia A. , Alanazi Shahad A. , Alruwaili Haya O. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
An adjuvant treatment, known as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), has been suggested to quicken orthodontic tooth movement and perhaps shorten the course of treatment.

Materials and Methods:
For 60 orthodontic patients aged between 15 and 25, a randomized controlled experiment was carried out (30 males and 30 females). Two groups, Group A (LLLT group, n = 30) and Group B (control group, n = 30), were randomly allocated to the participants. For the first 8 weeks of therapy, Group A got LLLT three times a week using a diode laser with a wavelength of 808 nm and a power output of 100 mW. The laser was delivered for 30 s on each side of the target tooth. Beyond routine orthodontic care, Group B did not get any extra care. Using computerized models, the rate of tooth movement was monitored every 2 weeks for a duration of 12 weeks. The degree of tooth movement was the main result; patient-reported discomfort and gingival health were the secondary outcomes.

Results:
The group that had LLLT (Group A) demonstrated a notably elevated frequency of tooth movement in contrast to the control group (Group B). Group A’s average monthly tooth movement was 1.2 mm, whereas Group B’s average monthly movement was 0.8 mm (P < 0.01). Furthermore, throughout the early phases of therapy, patients in the LLLT group reported less discomfort, and there were no significant variations in gingival health between the two groups.

Conclusion:
With its ability to speed orthodontic tooth movement, LLLT may shorten the course of therapy. Additionally, it seems to lessen pain while starting orthodontic therapy.
Evaluation of the Effect of Functional Contouring of the Palatal Vault of Maxillary Complete Denture on Clarity of Speech Sounds in Edentulous Patients: An In Vivo Study
Authors: Jain Sonal , Manimegalai  , Purohit Bhavin , Amin Reshma , Arun R , Pai Deepika R 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
The articulatory system, which consists of the tongue, lips, teeth, hard palate, and soft palate, is a component of phonetics, the study of speech sounds. Speech sounds are negatively impacted by the lack of teeth and surrounding tissues in edentulous people. Phonetics has not gotten the same level of attention as denture mechanics and aesthetics, despite notable developments in these areas. The purpose of this research is to increase speech clarity in edentulous individuals by contouring the palatal vault of maxillary full dentures.

Materials and Methods:
Sixty edentulous individuals, who spoke Tamil or English well and were between the ages of 45 and 75, were chosen. Speech sounds from each individual were captured both before and after the maxillary full dentures’ palatal vault was functionally contoured using visible light cure acrylic resin. For a quantitative evaluation, spectrograms were used to examine the speech samples.

Results:
For most patients, functional contouring of the palatal vault markedly enhanced speech sound quality. The spectrogram analysis’s arbitrary results showed that most participants’ voice clarity had improved by 30% and that the time it took patients to attain clear speech after having a denture had been significantly reduced.

Conclusion:
The research comes to the conclusion that edentulous patients’ speech clarity is improved by functionally contouring the palatal vault using visible light cure acrylic resin in maxillary full dentures. By using this technique, patients are more satisfied with their dentures and the adaption time is shortened.
Investigation of the Potential of Nanoparticles as a New Drug Delivery System for Endodontic Treatment
Authors: Kader Abdul A. K. , Chandran Sandeep , Unnikrishnan K. K. Ridhun , Mannur Nikita A. , Gupta Anusar , Subramani Savadamoorthi Kamatchi 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
The application of nanoparticles in endodontic treatment presents a novel approach to drug delivery, potentially enhancing the efficacy of therapeutic agents.

Materials and Methods:
In this study, we synthesized and characterized nanoparticles of chitosan, calcium phosphate, and silver using standard protocols. The nanoparticles were then loaded with an antimicrobial agent, chlorhexidine, and incorporated into an endodontic sealer. The antibacterial efficacy of the nanoparticle-enhanced sealer was tested against Enterococcus faecalis using a disk diffusion method. Additionally, the penetration depth of nanoparticles into dentinal tubules was assessed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

Results:
The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited a uniform size distribution, with an average diameter of 50 nm for chitosan, 30 nm for calcium phosphate, and 20 nm for silver nanoparticles. The antibacterial tests showed that the nanoparticle-loaded sealer achieved a 40% greater inhibition zone against Enterococcus faecalis compared to the control sealer without nanoparticles. SEM analysis revealed that the nanoparticles penetrated dentinal tubules to a depth of approximately 500 μm, significantly more than the conventional sealer.

Conclusion:
Nanoparticles demonstrate significant potential as a drug delivery system in endodontic treatment, enhancing both the antibacterial efficacy and penetration depth of therapeutic agents.
Evaluating the Shear Bond Strength of Repaired Composites Using Different Surface Treatments and Repair Materials: An In-Vitro Comparative Study
Authors: Byxyx Prinaxy , Nagpal Ajay Kumar , Pandey Prashasti , Das Darshan , Anand Mihir , Pradhan Anupama 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Composite resin is commonly used in dental restorations, though it is prone to degradation over time. Repairing these restorations is often preferable for issues such as discoloration, small areas of decay near the restoration margin, or for preserving tooth health without the need for complete removal.

Method:
Sixty acrylic blocks with cavities were restored using FILTEK-Z-250 XT composite resin, which was then light-cured. After 300 thermal cycles, the blocks were divided into three groups: control, diamond bur-abraded, and aluminum oxide air-abraded. Each group was further subdivided into two subgroups, treated with either Ivoclar Tetric N-bond or 3M ESPE Single Bond Universal adhesive. Shear bond strengths (SBSs) were tested after applying additional composite, and the types of fractures were analyzed.

Results:
The air-abrasion group (Group III) exhibited the highest SBS values compared to the other groups. Specifically, Group IIIb (air-abrasion combined with 3M ESPE Single Bond Universal adhesive) recorded the highest SBS values overall and within its subgroup.

Conclusion:
Treating the composite material’s surface with mechanical methods, especially air-abrasion, improves its repairability.