bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social and demographic determinants of health insurance status in India: Evidence from a nationally representative cross-sectional survey
Authors: Vootukuri Kiranmayi , Kumar Venkateswara K. S , Naik V Suresh 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
Out-of-pocket medical expenses are a crucial metric for assessing how well the healthcare system is working toward obtaining universal health coverage in any country. In India, out-of-pocket expenses for health are relatively high compared to other developed countries due to a lack of alternative finance arrangements. The disparity in out-of-pocket medical expenses largely depends upon the public health expenditure, government policies, and level of health insurance coverage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The study used a logit regression model to examine the association of the status of health insurance with socio and demographic variables using National Sample Survey 2018 data. The objective of the study is to analyze the impact of demographic variables on the status of health insurance in India.

RESULTS:
This research found that education and occupation have a significant impact on the status of health insurance, among other demographic factors.

CONCLUSION:
These findings underscore the importance of targeted policies and interventions aimed at improving access to health insurance among specific demographic groups. Addressing disparities in health insurance coverage based on educational and occupational factors is essential for achieving equitable healthcare access and improved health outcomes in the country. Increasing awareness of health insurance reduces out-of-pocket medical expenses and subsequently brings down economic poverty.
Effectiveness of selected small group teaching methods for undergraduate medical students on basic concepts of epidemiology: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Vasudevan Jyothi , Chellamuthu Lalithambigai , Anandaraj Lokeshmaran , Chalil Ajith Kumar 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
Teaching epidemiology to young medical students using traditional teaching techniques is fraught with myriad challenges. Incorporating innovative small group teaching (SGT) approaches that promote active learning, practical application, and critical thinking can help in overcoming these challenges.

AIM/OBJECTIVE:
To identify the most effective SGT method from selected three approaches [tutorial technique (TT), problem-based learning (PBL), and fishbowl technique (FBT)] to teach the basic concepts of epidemiology to the third-year undergraduate medical students of a private medical college in Puducherry, Southern India.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
A quasi-experimental study was conducted among third-year undergraduate medical students for 6 months. The sample size was calculated to be 60 using the nMaster 2.0 sample size software. Three groups were formed with 20 students each. A pre-test, which included fifty multiple-choice questions covering topic one, was conducted for students in all three groups. An SGT session on topic one (dynamics of disease transmission) was held on the same day by different facilitators for three groups A, B, and C using the TT, PBL, and FBT, respectively. After 6 weeks of the SGT session for topic one, a post-test using the same questions was organized for all three groups to identify the effectiveness of each SGT method. The above sequence of events was followed for topic two (study designs) and topic three (investigation of disease outbreak) among all groups in the subsequent months. A written informed consent was sought from all students. The collected data was entered in MS Excel 2010 and analyzed using SPSS 21. The pre- and post-tests for all topics in all three groups were compared using a paired t-test, and an ANOVA test was used to find any difference between the groups.

RESULTS:
The mean post-test score in each of the three groups for all topics had improved when compared with the mean pre-test score, which was significantly different between the three groups. Further, the mean score of group B (PBL group) was found to be higher than group C (FBT) but not significantly higher compared to group A (TT). The mean score of the feedback where the participants were asked to rate the overall session was found to be high in group B (PBL) followed by group A (TT).

CONCLUSION:
PBL and TT were found to be an equally effective way of small group methods for teaching–learning epidemiology in medical school.
Bridging the gaps in patient education through aesthetic-based education: A concept analysis study
Authors: Khooshab Elham , Khorasani Parvaneh , Rakhshan Mahnaz , Yazdannik Ahmadreza , BakhtiyarNasrabadi Hasanali 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
Aesthetics is a branch of philosophy that has been entered into the philosophy of education for a long time. Reviewing the concept of aesthetics in education, we can see the components that can cover a number of challenges in the field of patient education. Focusing on the conceptual dimensions obtained from the analysis of this concept, the aim is matching the resulting conceptual categories with the gaps in the field of patient education.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Using a scoping review, we reviewed the literature dealt with different dimensions of aesthetic-based education. Walker and Avant’s concept analysis approach was used to inductively analyze the content obtained from the review of literature. The data were divided into three general groups of antecedents, attributes, and consequences of the aesthetic-based education concept, and the final conceptual model was defined. Interdisciplinary comparisons between educational and medical sciences were made to match the concept of aesthetic education with the field of patient education to cover its issues. During the scope review process of the texts, after screening the articles, 17 articles selected to enter the concept analysis stage.

RESULT:
Concept analysis phase showed that the main conceptual categories of antecedents of aesthetic-based education are aesthetic-based intrapersonal competencies and aesthetic capacities of educational setting. The attributes include aesthetic-based educational content and teaching methods including unity in diversity, combination with art and being based on empathy. The consequences include subliminal learning and constraint-free learning. These conceptual dimensions can cover four important issues in patient education including patient satisfaction, pedagogical competences of health educators, patient centeredness, and empathetic relationship.

CONCLUSION:
Applying aesthetic concept in the patient education process can bridge part of the gaps in this process. So, this study can be an introduction to future innovative models based on aesthetic paradigm in the field of patient education.
Impact of oral health preventive program using specialized audio and tactile aids in visually impaired school children. A cross-sectional study
Authors: Dwivedi Rahul , Gupta Pooja , Jana Soumyakanti , Tiwari Rishi Kumar , Verma Reetika , Singh Nitin , Gupta Preeti 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
The maintenance of oral hygiene and subsequent health related issues in visually handicapped children is a challenging task. Hence, tools must be used to ensure good oral health in these children. The study aimed to analyze the effectiveness of preventive programs on oral health using specialized audio and tactile aids in visually impaired school children.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
100 visually handicapped children were selected for the study. They were divided into two groups: Group A (Training using Braille) and Group B (training by means of audio aids). Children were trained using appropriate tools and oral health was assessed using Plaque and Gingival bleeding indices.

STATISTICAL ANALYSIS:
Independent ‘T-test’ was used for comparing mean ± SD values.

RESULTS:
Statistically significant improvements in both plaque and gingival bleeding indices were obtained on follow-up observations at 3rd and 6th months.

CONCLUSION:
The use of specialized tactile and audio tools significantly improved the oral health status of visually impaired school children.
Development and validation of interprofessional health education module for the management of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Shetty Ashwini K. , Reddy Madhavi , Patil Nitin J. , Kumaran Senthil E , Satyanarayana Pradeep Tarikere , Sheela SR , Raveesha A , Reddy Sudha VR , Bajaj Gagan 
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a glucose intolerance that shows its first onset during pregnancy. In India, GDM affects as many as 5 million women annually. The interprofessional collaborative educational intervention is crucial for GDM management. This study illustrates the collaborative effort in developing and validating an interprofessional health education module designed for healthcare professionals during consultation sessions with GDM patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:
The investigation involved three stages: 1) needs assessment for module contents and objectives, 2) health education module development by an interprofessional team, and 3) module validation. We received ethics approval from the institution’s ethics committee.

RESULTS:
The interprofessional team developed and validated the evidence-based English-printed module. The module had 27 units and covered six topics: an introduction to GDM and its management, dietary recommendations for GDM, exercise, yoga recommendations for GDM, weight control, and postpartum care.

CONCLUSION:
The interprofessional team developed the educational module, wherein there is an integration of the domains of exercise and yoga along with medicines and nutrition therapy. The module was developed based on local requirements and evidence-based practices. Healthcare professionals can use the interprofessional health education module when advising diabetic pregnant patients.
Clinical and Aesthetic Evaluation of Minimally Invasive Surgical Therapy for the Treatment of Gingival Recession Defects - A Systematic Review of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Sethna Gulnar Dara , Attar Nilofar Badshah , Shinde Sanket Vasant , Machale Priyanka Sambhaji , Fernandes Lynette Custodio 
Published: April 2024

Background:
The concept of minimally invasive dentistry has seamlessly blended into the various fields of dentistry including periodontics. The past three decades have witnessed a paradigm shift from conventional surgical procedures to microsurgery in the field of periodontal plastic surgery. This entails the integration of microsurgical principles, refined surgical skills and magnification devices along with microsurgical instruments. This systematic review of the randomized clinical trials attempts to address the clinical question whether the application of minimally invasive surgical procedures for gingival augmentation and root coverage procedures for the treatment of gingival recession translate into superior clinical and patient oriented results as compared to conventional root coverage procedures.

Materials and Methods:
Science Direct and Ovid databases, PubMed, Scopus, and Product literature were accessed to review relevant literature evaluating minimally invasive surgery for treatment of gingival recession defects (GRDs). The search covered 13 studies published in medical and dental journals in English with a relevant impact factor and had a follow up of at least 6 months, up to and including June 2023. The results were based on parameters such as complete root coverage (CRC, expressed as percentage), mean root coverage (MRC, expressed as %) width of keratinized tissue (WKT), and variables such as esthetics and pain postsurgery.

Results and Conclusion:
The 13 studies pooled in 342 patients who underwent root coverage procedures for treatment of GRDs. The test group (microsurgical) and the control group (macrosurgical group) both resulted in overall improvement in parameters like MRC and CRC, WKT etc. at least 6 months postsurgery; however, statistical difference in between both the groups in these parameters was seen in only three studies. There was marked improvement found in the test group after surgery with respect to esthetics (root coverage aesthetic score) and pain scores (Visual Analog Scale score) as compared to the control group. This compels us to infer that although both conventional and microsurgical procedures are successful as root coverage procedures, microsurgical procedures are minimally invasive and produce superior esthetic and comfort parameters for the patient and are therefore highly recommended in surgical procedures.
Clinical Evaluation of Two Different Nanohybrid Composite Restorations Using FDI Criteria – A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Medarametla Renuka , Govula Kiranmayi , Anumula Lavanya , Chinni Suneelkumar , Yendluri Pavan Kumar 
Published: April 2024

Background:
Several approaches were introduced in placing the composite resin into the prepared cavity. Some researchers recommend using an incremental technique. The material is gradually placed in 2 mm or less thick layers, resulting in better curing by adequate light penetration and better composite resin polymerization. However, disadvantages like voids and the time taken to complete the procedure are lengthier due to the time consumption in placement and polymerization of each increment. Time-saving restorative materials are an ongoing demand for posterior restorations. A newer resin-based composite, bulk-fill composites, have been introduced to speed up the restoration process by enabling up to 4–5 mm thick increments to be cured in one step, thus skipping the time-consuming layering process.

Materials and Methods:
The randomized clinical trial was conducted on 40 patients with 80 restorations. Randomization was followed by using a random number table. Patients with at least two class I or class II restorations were selected. One tooth is restored with bulk-fill followed by capping with ceram x, and the other with bulk-fill followed by Filtek Z250. All the patients were recalled after 6 months and 12 months. Two examiners evaluated restorations using Federation Dentaire International (FDI) criteria at baseline, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results:
The collected data from the participants were analyzed using SPSS software. There was no statistically significant difference observed between the two restorations placed with two nanohybrid composites (ceram x and Filtek Z250).

Conclusion:
The study concludes that bulk-fill resin composites capped with nanohybrid composites show excellent clinical performance equal to conventional composites and are beneficial to the clinician in reducing the time. Smart dentin replacement has a self-leveling capacity, showing better marginal adaptation and thus helping reduce secondary caries.
Impact of Intranasal Splint Removal Time on Postoperative Complications after Septoplasty
Authors: Arslan S , Yıldırım H , Çobanoğlu B , Işık AÜ , Bahadır O 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Various types of nasal tampons are used for packing after septoplasty. Intranasal splints are widely used as they are more advantageous than other materials regarding the lower complication rates of synechia, and lesser pain during removal. However, there is no consensus on the timing of intranasal splint removal after septoplasty operations.

Aim:
In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of removal time of intranasal splints on postoperative complications after septoplasty.

Methods:
One hundred patients who had septoplasty were randomly divided into two groups according to splint removal time. In group I, the splints were removed on the third postoperative day and in group II, splints were removed on the seventh postoperative day. Pain during splint removal was evaluated by visual analog scale (VAS). Complications of hemorrhage, septal hematoma, crusting, mucosal injury, and infection were recorded during splint removal and compared. In the first postoperative month, hemorrhage, crusting, mucosal injury, infection, synechia, and in the second postoperative month, synechia and perforation rates were compared between two groups.

Results:
Mucosal crusting was significantly higher in group II during splint removal. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups regarding the complication rates and pain scores. Our findings showed no significant difference in pain scores during splint removal and postoperative complications between the two groups except for mucosal crusting.

Conclusion:
Based on our findings, although there is no consensus on the optimal time for splint removal, earlier removal of splints can be considered a favorable option after septoplasty operations.
Evaluation of Postoperative Complications Following Modified Coronally Advanced Flap as Root Coverage Procedure − A Prospective Clinical Study
Authors: Nisha S , Das D , Vijay DM. , Karmakar S , Barai S , Shashikumar P 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Root coverage procedures are very technique sensitive and require patients’ compliance for successful treatment outcomes. Post operative complications can influence patients’ acceptance of treatment and compromise further periodontal maintenance.

Aim:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and severity of complications after a modified coronally advanced flap procedure.

Methods and Materials:
A total of 78 modified coronally advanced flap procedures were performed in 42 patients for root coverage. Duration of surgical procedure, history of smoking, gender, and age were recorded for each patient. A questionnaire was given to every patient to fill in at first post operative week regarding their experience of postoperative pain, swelling, and bleeding.

Results:
Pain and duration of surgery had a correlation (OR: 1.05, P < 0.05). Post operative bleeding was significantly correlated with duration of surgery (OR: 1.03, P < 0.05). Current smokers experienced post operative swelling (P < 0.05). However, post operative pain in current smokers was not significantly different (P > 0.05) as compared to nonsmokers. Descriptive statistics were expressed as mean and standard deviations. Odd’s ratio was obtained to evaluate risk indicators for moderate to severe types of complications. P < 0.05 was considered as significant.

Conclusions:
The duration of the surgery, long duration, and the presence of smoking can increase the frequency and severity of post operative complications.
Traditional Eye Practices: Economics and Visual Status of Users in North Central Nigeria
Authors: Oyediji FJ , Ramyil AV 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
Traditional medicine is a constellation of practices, approaches, knowledge, and beliefs, which encompass material-based medicines, spiritual therapies, and manual techniques applied individually or combined.

Aim:
This study seeks to determine the cost and visual status of traditional eye treatments users among new patients at a health facility.

Materials and Methods:
This is part of the study titled “Traditional eye practices: A facility-based study in North Central Nigeria.” It is a cross-sectional, facility-based study conducted between July 2013 and June 2014 on new patients seen in the eye unit of Church of Christ in the Nations Rehabilitation Center, Mangu. Interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used to gather information on patient demographics; cost of traditional eye medication and manipulations and visual status of new patients were recorded.

Results:
The use of traditional eye treatment was reported by 134 (4.3%) of the 3113 new patients. Traditional operative couching of lens was more expensive than using traditional eye medications (P < 0.001). Payment modality varied, and poor visual status was significantly higher among traditional eye treatment users (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:
Since most respondents who had their eyes couched or used traditional eye medicine were able to pay such high price with dissatisfaction and poorer visual status, they should be able to pay for modern cataract surgery with good outcome. There is a need for health education of the general public about the deleterious effects of traditional eye treatment.
Mental Health Burden and Facilitators Among Frontline Healthcare Professionals in Nigeria Amid COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Abiola T , Yusuf AJ , Ibrahim MG , Fajimolu OO , Hayatudeen N , Ohaeri JU , Udofia O , Jidda MS 
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the frontline healthcare providers faced significant mental health stressors. Previous pandemics have revealed the need for psychosocial support and healthy coping mechanisms to mitigate mental health risks.

Aim:
The study aimed to assess psychological impact and supportive mechanisms experienced by frontline healthcare workers treating COVID-19 patients in Kaduna State.

Methods:
This study involved 38 frontline healthcare providers mainly from Kaduna State Infectious Disease Treatment Center. Participants’ mental health burden was captured through Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Mental health facilitators were assessed through six tools: Ten-Item Values Inventory, healthy defense section of the Defense Style Questionnaire, Existential Anxiety Questionnaire, Brief Resilience Scale, Oslo Social Support Scale, and the Insomnia Severity Index.

Results:
The mean age of the study participants was 35.5 ± 6.6 years, with the majority being males (68.4%) and doctors (39.5%). More than a quarter of the participants showed appreciable symptoms of depression and anxiety. Psychosocial facilitators such as moral values, openness to change, self-transcendence, sublimation, anticipation, and humor scored above average for more than half of the participants. Most participants demonstrated moderate resilience and social support, with few experiencing sleep challenges. Comparisons of variables indicated “openness to change” was significantly higher among males, whereas symptoms of depression and anxiety were associated with higher levels of existential concerns and sleep challenges.

Conclusion:
Our study finds that Nigerian frontline health workers experienced significant mental health challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic. It identified specific facilitators linked to gender and psychological burdens, informing the need for tailored support interventions.