Preventive Measures Research Articles

Use of ARIMA Model for Forecasting Consequences Due to Traffic Crashes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Times series models are important statistical methods for analysing data recorded at points of time which considers the order of observations. In this study, the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) model was used to analyse the consequences of traffic crashes in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) from 2002-2022. Over the study period, there was a decreasing trend in the forecasted number of all types of injuries per 1,000 traffic crashes. Moreover, to check the validity of the fitted model, the actual observations are plotted with predicted values from 2016 to 2022 and showed a nearly equal and exact pattern between the total number of predicted values and the actual data. It is concluded that the ARIMA model is a good fit to forecast the parameter of consequences per 1,000 crashes. The decrease in consequences may be due to preventive or mitigation measures by various organisations in KSA.

Incidence and risk factors of adverse events after distal radius fracture fixation with volar locking plates: retrospective analysis of 2,790 cases

Background and purpose: 12–18% of patients encounter adverse events after distal radius fracture (DRF) surgery with volar locking plates (VLPs). Risk factors for which preventive measures could be administered are currently scarce. We aimed to examine the incidence of postoperative adverse events and assess the causes and risk factors for the adverse events after VLP fixation of DRFs.Methods: We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study evaluating all adult DRF patients treated with VLP fixation between 2009 and 2019 at Helsinki University Hospital. Patients with previous disabilities or ulnar fractures, other than styloid process fractures, in the affected extremity were excluded. We examined each patient’s treatment using the electronic medical records system and identified postoperative adverse events defined as any deviation from the ordinary postoperative course, showcasing clinical symptoms. We used multivariable binary logistic regression to assess the risk for adverse events.Results: 2,790 cases of DRF were included. The incidence of adverse events was 16%. Hardware complications (8.3%), predominantly intra-articular screws (4.9%), were the most commonly encountered adverse events. Other frequent adverse events included carpal tunnel syndrome (2.8%), tendon complications (2.8%), and surgical site infections (1.5%). In the multivariable analysis, smoking, higher body mass index (BMI), alcohol abuse, C-type fractures, residual intra-articular displacement, and dorsal tilt were found as risk factors for adverse events.Conclusion: The incidence of adverse events was 16% after VLP fixation of DRFs. We identified several new risk factors for adverse events, which included residual dorsal tilt, intra-articular dislocation, insufficiently corrected inclination, smoking, alcohol abuse, and higher BMI.

Road Traffic Injury Prevention: Bicycle

Abstract Purpose of review We describe recent trends in bicycle-related trauma, associated morbidity and mortality, the disparate effects on adult and pediatric populations, the effects of socioeconomic inequities on injury patterns, and milestones in preventative efforts. Recent findings National data demonstrates a lower incidence of unintentional injuries but a higher number of bicycle-related fatalities in the United States over the past decade. Traumatic brain injury remains the leading cause of mortality and chronic morbidity for bicyclists overall. Extremity and facial trauma predominate among older populations, while children are more susceptible to solid organ injuries and severe trauma with the use of electric bicycles. Factors that improve rider safety include changes in infrastructure, speed limits, and the implementation of dedicated bicycle lanes. Helmet usage is the most critical aspect for reducing bicyclist mortality, though rates of consistent usage in the US remain low, they can be improved with mandatory helmet laws. The lowest rates of helmet use are seen in areas of lower socioeconomic status, with these bicyclists subsequently subject to a greater burden of bicycle-related trauma. Summary Bicycle accidents are relatively common injuries in both adults and children. Road traffic accidents (RTAs), including those involving bicycles and electric bicycles (E-bikes), contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality across age groups. The focus in mitigating these injuries is on preventive measures, emphasizing the role of infrastructure improvements, public policies, and educational initiatives. The review discusses the trends in bicycle-related trauma, disparities affecting different age groups, socioeconomic influences on injury patterns, and recent advancements in injury prevention strategies.

Gang membership and rehabilitation: an exploration of narrative accounts from violent gang offenders in an English prison

Purpose The majority of gang research has focussed primarily on American samples, with the rehabilitative field being no exception. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to expand the knowledge base regarding the psychology of gang membership by exploring the narrative accounts of convicted street gang members within an English and Welsh prison sample. Design/methodology/approach Using semi-structured interviews with nine convicted male prisoners, data were analysed, systematically coded and themes generated in line with the principles of thematic analysis. Findings Three major themes emerged which depicted how members viewed gang membership. The first theme was around what being a gang member meant to them and the organisation within the gang (e.g. hierarchy and criminal activities). The second theme reflected their motivations for joining a gang with reference to their identity and survival. Lastly, within the third theme, participants spoke about what had motivated them to disengage from the gang, difficulties they faced because of disengagement, and what they felt had helped them in the process of disengagement. Practical implications The study emphasises the importance of avoiding labels and promoting choice as to how individuals refer to themselves, which can help remove stigma and strengthen professional relationships as part of their risk management planning. Policymakers, practitioners and programme developers are advised to reflect on the word “gang” and how this may influence perception of risk and contribute to bias in judgement. The study also provides insight into individuals experiences with rehabilitation initiatives and the logistical challenges of being open with their peer group. Also supports ideas on considering how to create opportunities to ensure those who wish to exit gangs can do so in a safe, legitimate and durable way. Findings could assist in the design of early preventative measures for those identified as being at risk of joining a gang. Offering training to professionals in the community on how to identify and communicate with those vulnerable to joining a gang may support this process. Originality/value Findings add to the limited yet growing evidence base in understanding the psychology of gang membership and helping to support the work undertaken with this cohort.

Musculoskeletal Disorders in COVID-19 Surveillance Staff Members: An Analysis of Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Coping Strategies

Aims/Background During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the COVID-19 surveillance staff members experienced an increased risk for musculoskeletal disorders. Thus, it is necessary to further investigate the causal factors stemming from COVID-19 surveillance work, especially nucleic acid testing, and establish their relationship with work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs) by building upon the previous research. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs and the major risks faced by the COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted in May 2022. The Quick Exposure Check (QEC), Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ), and Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) were used to evaluate ergonomic factors, musculoskeletal symptoms and pressure among 131 COVID-19 surveillance staff members in four hospitals in South-central Henan Province. Additionally, data regarding the coping strategies adopted by the respondents for lowing the risk of developing WMSDs were collected using a self-report questionnaire. Results The QEC results showed that the back, neck, and should/arm of the COVID-19 surveillance staff members bore high ergonomic loads, while the wrist suffered a medium load. The neck (75.6%), shoulder (66.4%), upper back (58%), and wrist (55.7%) were at higher risk for musculoskeletal disorder. Most of the respondents claimed a low sense of achievement (124, 94.7%) and slightly less than half of them had endured emotional exhaustion at work (61, 46.6%). Prolonged period of maintaining the same posture at work, awkward bending or twisting of back side, task repetition and so on were the perceived job risk factors precipitating WMSDs among the participants in this study. The top three coping strategies for lowering the risk of WMSDs included adjusting the plinth/bed height (49.6%), utilizing different parts of the body at work (47.3%), and taking short breaks when required (33.6%). Conclusion Prolonged large-scale nucleic acid detection can aggravate the musculoskeletal injuries of the neck, shoulder, upper back, and wrist in COVID-19 surveillance staff members. Prevention measures for musculoskeletal injuries factors must be in place to deter such incidence at work.

Oral Health Complications of SCUBA Diving

OBJECTIVE This review aims to assess the specific oral health complications associated with SCUBA diving, including barodontalgia, barosinusitis, and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, and to examine the dental implications of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) used in decompression sickness treatment. Additionally, this review identifies gaps in the literature and suggests areas for further research to improve dental care guidelines for divers. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases from 2004 to 2024, focusing on terms such as "barodontalgia," "dental barotrauma," and "diving dentistry." From 77 initial articles, 25 studies were selected based on relevance to pressure-induced oral complications, diving-related barotrauma, and dental management for SCUBA divers. RESULTS The review identifies barodontalgia as a prevalent issue, commonly triggered by untreated caries or defective restorations, with symptoms intensified by pressure changes. TMJ disorders, linked to prolonged clenching on diving mouthpieces, and sinus-related barotrauma also emerged as significant concerns. Preventive measures, including regular dental checkups, use of resin-based cements, and customized mouthpieces, are recommended to reduce risks. Furthermore, the review highlights a need for larger, controlled studies across diverse diver populations to validate current recommendations and develop accessible guidelines, especially for recreational divers who may lack access to specialized dental care.

A multicentric survey and single-centre observational study of usage behaviour of sinks in intensive care: training is needed to minimize risk

Abstract Introduction Sinks have been introduced near patients to improve hand hygiene as part of infection prevention and control measures. However, sinks are a known reservoir for gram-negative bacterial pathogens in particular and their removal to prevent bacterial infections in intensive care patients is currently recommended by several international guidelines. Methods Healthcare workers (HCWs) in 15 intensive care units (ICUs) in Germany were given the opportunity to complete an anonymous survey on the use of sinks between August 2022 and January 2023. Observations were then made in three participating ICUs to determine the frequency and reason for contact with the sink. Results 258 questionnaires were returned (nurses 87%). 90% found it useful to very useful to have a sink in the patient room, and 56% reported using it daily for hand hygiene. We observed 33 contacts between nurses and sinks over 17 h. In 20/33 (60%) cases, the sink was used for waste disposal. In 3/33 (10%) it was used for hand washing. Discussion Sinks are still used for daily care in intensive care units. Educational Interventions in existing buildings to minimise risk through “sink hygiene” (i.e. separation of sinks for water disposal and uptake) can make an important contribution to infection prevention.

Drinking water is the urolithiasis development factor among the rural population of a single region

BACKGROUND: The urolithiasis incidence in the Nizhny Novgorod Region exceeds the national average that determines the importance of analyzing the causes of its development and creating preventive measures. AIM: To evaluate the relationship between the urolithiasis incidence and drinking water composition consumed by the rural population of the Nizhny Novgorod Region. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A chemical analysis of drinking water was performed in 50 rural districts of the Nizhny Novgorod Region (a total of 61 samples). Water was taken from centralized water supply sources, artesian wells and boreholes, and springs. The relationship between the urolithiasis incidence and chemical composition measures of drinking water was assessed. RESULTS: Differences in the impurity content of drinking water were found between districts with different values of urolithiasis incidence. Exceeding the standard values for impurities specified in the Sanitary regulations and standards (SanPin) was most commonly detected in water from districts with the highest incidence of urolithiasis. An increase in the calcium/magnesium ratio was the most commonly noted in drinking water from these districts. In 41 (67.2%) of 61 samples, an increase of calcium level was detected. The hardness of drinking water was higher than the standard in 33.3–38.8% of samples depending on the water intake source. CONCLUSIONS: Drinking water with a high level of hardness and mineralization is one of the etiological factors for the development of urolithiasis in Nizhny Novgorod Region. In rural areas of this region with a high incidence of urolithiasis, the monitoring of the state of central water supply sources and the impurity content in drinking water should be intensified.

Socioeconomic determinants of malaria and hepatitis infections: insights from the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, North Central, Nigeria.

Malaria and hepatitis are prevalent public health issues in Nigeria, significantly impacting health outcomes. Given the importance of the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, as a key healthcare provider in the region, it is crucial to understand the prevalence and factors associated with these diseases within this setting. This study is designed to address this need, aiming to evaluate the prevalence and risk factors of malaria and hepatitis B and C among patients at the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi. A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving the meticulous analysis of patient records and diagnostic data from the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi. Data on malaria and hepatitis B and C prevalence were collected from laboratory reports and patient interviews. Socioeconomic information, including income, education level, and healthcare access, was also gathered. Statistical analyses were performed with utmost care to identify associations between disease prevalence and risk factors. The study examined 248 patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Makurdi, assessing malaria, Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and Hepatitis C virus (HCV). Malaria prevalence was 52.4%, with higher rates in males (57.7%) than females (47.2%). HBsAg prevalence was 6.9%, and HCV was 4.8%, with no significant differences by sex or marital status. Income level impacted HCV rates, with middle-income individuals showing higher prevalence (21.4%). Malaria was most common in the 26-40 age group (35.4%). The findings underscore the need for targeted public health interventions. Enhanced access to preventive measures, such as insecticide-treated nets and safer blood transfusion practices, and educational disease prevention programs, are essential. Addressing socioeconomic disparities is crucial for effective disease control. To mitigate the burden of malaria and hepatitis B and C at the Federal Medical Center, Makurdi, a multifaceted approach is required. Improving preventive measures, healthcare access, and addressing socioeconomic determinants will reduce disease prevalence and improve patient outcomes.

Analysis of cutaneous leishmaniasis among military personnel in the Islamic Republic of Iran: a spatiotemporal study between 2018 and 2022, trend forecasting based on ARIMA model.

Cutaneous leishmaniasis is one of the few infectious diseases whose global prevalence is on the rise. Iran ranks among the eight most affected countries in the world. Iranian military personnel are often sent to endemic areas for cutaneous leishmaniasis without prior immunity, and they have fewer health facilities in military centers than the general population. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the situation of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Iranian military personnel across all units from 2018 to 2022 and predict the disease trend using time series analysis up to the end of 2025. We analyzed data from the Iranian Ministry of Health to perform spatiotemporal and descriptive analyses based on patient frequency. Variables examined included age distribution, cutaneous leishmaniasis types (zoonotic or anthroponotic), month of healthcare facility visits, and lesion locations. This study employed the ARIMA model (p = 2, d = 0, q = 1)(P = 3, D = 0, Q = 0), for time series analysis and forecasting the disease trend up to 36 months after 2022. Over five years, 2,894 patients were reported. The Esfahan, Khuzestan, and Ilam provinces had the highest average patient counts, with hot spots primarily found in central, south, southwestern, and western Iran. Although the total number of patients with zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis was almost equal to anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis, in high-risk provinces such as Esfahan, Khuzestan, and Ilam, the confirmed cases of zoonotic cutaneous leishmaniasis were much more than anthroponotic cutaneous leishmaniasis. patient numbers peak in October and November. Demographic analysis revealed that younger patients outnumbered older patients. Lesion locations were frequent on the forelimbs and lower limbs. The time series analysis for 36 months after 2022 indicated the seasonal pattern of the disease and predicted an upward trend after 2022. While overall cases have declined, provinces such as Esfahan exhibit an upward trend. The expansion of hotspots from the west and southwestern to the center and south of Iran, coupled with an increasing trend in time series analysis, suggests the potential emergence of new foci and a rise in patient numbers in the future. In provinces with high disease prevalence, preventive measures should be prioritized, particularly in Ilam, Khuzestan, and Esfahan.

EL HÁBITO DE FUMAR Y SU INFLUENCIA EN LA CONSOLIDACIÓN ÓSEA: UNA REVISIÓN INTEGRADORA

Smoking is considered one of the risk factors for various diseases, not only related to the respiratory system but also influencing the physiological processes of various organs and body systems. This article aims to deepen the understanding of the effects of smoking on bone healing by analyzing its molecular, cellular, and clinical bases. This process is subject to possible direct or indirect interferences from chemical substances such as nicotine. It is important to note that, besides conventional cigarettes, there is also indiscriminate use of electronic cigarettes, which, according to an analysis conducted by Pérez and Duarte (2022), have considerably higher nicotine levels than traditional cigarettes. Another study conducted by González et al. (2021) highlights the increasing popularity of these devices among young people, underscoring the importance of preventive measures. According to the National Institute of Traumatology and Orthopedics (INTO), inhaling tobacco smoke increases bone tissue healing time by 60%, thus delaying the body's ability to heal injuries and compromising bone absorption. The clinical repercussions of smoking on the quality and speed of bone recovery after fractures and orthopedic procedures are identified to improve understanding and develop specific clinical strategies and interventions for smoking patients. The specific objectives of this research were to: investigate the molecular and cellular mechanisms of the bone healing process, analyze the effects of smoking on the quality of the formed tissue, evaluate the influence of smoking on the bone healing time in patients after fracture or orthopedic surgery, and finally propose therapeutic strategies and preventive measures to improve bone healing. To this end, a bibliographic search was conducted on articles relevant to the topic using various means. The selection of articles was based on three stages, choosing those that met the inclusion criteria. During the development of this article, it is observed that smoking is an extended and ancestral practice, being a constant and emerging health problem. Additionally, it is considered a modifiable risk factor for decreasing bone density. In conclusion, the need for specific strategies to address complications in bone healing in smoking patients is highlighted.

Moderation of sex in the Association between School Bullying Behaviors and problematic gaming among Chinese adolescents: a cross-sectional study.

Problematic gaming (PG) is a serious issue among adolescents worldwide, and there is evidence suggesting that school bullying behaviors may be associated with increased rates of PG. This study aimed to examine the associations between school bullying behaviors and PG among adolescents, with a focus on sex effects. A total of 20,197 participants were recruited from the 2023 School-based Chinese Adolescents Health Survey. Information about school bullying behaviors and PG was measured. Sampling weights were utilized to estimate the prevalence, and weighted logistic regression models were executed. Stratified analyses by sex were performed. Among Chinese adolescents, the weighted prevalence of PG was 4.2%, 8.1% were identified as victims, 1.8% as bullies, and 3.4% as bully-victims. A higher frequency of school bullying behaviors corresponds to a higher prevalence of PG. After adjusting for covariates, victims (AOR = 1.34, 95% CI = 1.03-1.73), bullies (AOR = 2.08, 95% CI = 1.39-3.11), and bully-victims (AOR = 2.75, 95% CI = 2.09-3.61) were associated with PG. Moreover, the severity of PG tended to increase with the number of involved in school bullying behaviors. The interaction terms of bully-victims and sex were significant. Further stratified analyses by sex indicated that the association of school bullying behaviors with PG was stronger for females than males, especially those identified as bully-victims. School bullying behaviors are associated with PG among adolescents, with a stronger association found in female adolescents, particularly those identified as bully-victims. These findings suggest that implementing prevention and control measures for school bullying could help reduce PG among adolescents.

Microfluidic qPCR for detection of 21 common respiratory viruses in children with influenza-like illness.

Multiple respiratory viruses lead to high morbidity and mortality, yet global surveillance platforms focus primarily on seasonal influenza viruses. The COVID-19 pandemic and new RSV vaccines highlight the importance of a broader approach. Upper respiratory tract swabs from children aged 24-59months presenting with influenza-like illness in The Gambia were collected during follow-up of a live-attenuated influenza vaccine randomised controlled trial in 2017-18. A microfluidic quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) assay was established and used to detect 21 respiratory viruses. 76.6% of samples had one or more viruses detected (n = 121/158). The viruses detected most frequently were rhinovirus (n = 37/158, 23.4%) and adenovirus (n = 34/158, 21.5%), followed by parainfluenza virus 3, influenza B and human metapneumovirus B. A third of positive samples had multiple viruses detected (two n = 31/121, 25.6%; three n = 9/121, 7.4%). Our data demonstrates how microfluidic qPCR is a useful tool for high-throughput, comprehensive detection of multiple respiratory viruses in surveillance platforms. Rapidly changing epidemiology exemplifies the need for new, broader approaches to virus surveillance in low-resource settings to respond to future epidemics and to guide the need for and use of new prevention and therapeutic measures.

Epidemiological and clinical significance of rotavirus infection during the vaccination period

Rotavirus infection is one of the leading causes of severe diarrhea in children under five years of age worldwide and contributes significantly to child mortality. The introduction of rotavirus vaccination for epidemic indications into the Russian National Immunization Schedule has not impacted the epidemiological situation due to low vaccination coverage. This article provides a review of studies evaluating the clinical significance of rotavirus infection in the context of mass vaccination, as well as its impact on the circulation of rotavirus genotypes. We have analyzed data on the prevalence of rotavirus, the severity of clinical cases, and changes in the genetic diversity of the virus. It has been noted that vaccination reduces the severity of gastroenteritis; however, over time, changes in circulating viral strains have been observed. Despite the positive effects of vaccination, some countries have reported an increase in the prevalence of other pathogens, such as norovirus and Campylobacter. These findings emphasize the need to continue vaccination efforts and monitor changes in the structure of pathogens responsible for acute intestinal infections to improve preventive measures and control the epidemiological situation.

Phage-Derived Endolysins Against Resistant Staphylococcus spp.: A Review of Features, Antibacterial Activities, and Recent Applications.

Antimicrobial resistance is a significant global public health issue, and the dissemination of antibiotic resistance in Gram-positive bacterial pathogens has significantly increased morbidity, mortality rates, and healthcare costs. Among them, Staphylococcus, especially methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), causes a wide range of diseases due to its diverse pathogenic factors and infection strategies. These bacteria also present significant issues in veterinary medicine and food safety. Effectively managing staphylococci-related problems necessitates a concerted effort to implement preventive measures, rapidly detect the pathogen, and develop new and safe antimicrobial therapies. In recent years, there has been growing interest in using endolysins to combat bacterial infections. These enzymes, which are also referred to as lysins, are a unique class of hydrolytic enzymes synthesized by double-stranded DNA bacteriophages. They possess glycosidase, lytic transglycosylase, amidase, and endopeptidase activities, effectively destroying the peptidoglycan layer and resulting in bacterial lysis. This unique property makes endolysins powerful antimicrobial agents, particularly against Gram-positive organisms with more accessible peptidoglycan layers. Therefore, considering the potential benefits of endolysins compared to conventional antibiotics, we have endeavored to gather and review the characteristics and uses of endolysins derived from staphylococcal bacteriophages, as well as their antibacterial effectiveness against Staphylococcus spp. based on conducted experiments and trials.

Voters’ Perspectives on Elections (2011-2021): A Hermeneutic Study in Chadiza Constituency, Eastern Province, Zambia

The study explored voters’ experience during elections from 2011 to 2021 in Chadiza District of Eastern Province, Zambia. The objectives of the study were: to establish causes of electoral violence, to describe effects of electoral violence and to establish mitigation measures to ameliorating electoral violence in Chadiza Constituency. This was a thematic analysis and used qualitative research method with 35 participants. In using the Hermeneutic phenomenology, the authors desired not to depart from personal opinions, experiences and value as aid to analyse and interpret collected data. Data was collected through interviews and Focus Group Discussion using purposive sampling. The results of the study were discussed in referential to thematic areas that emerged during data analysis and they established that voting experiences in Chadiza were characterised by electoral violence. The factors that caused electoral violence and effects of electoral violence were revealed by the study. The collected data helped in formulation of sustainable electoral violence prevention measures. The study recommended that the Electoral Commission of Zambia ought to bridge the gap between Ideal and real elections by applying appropriate measures that would lead to cost effective elections that over rides or reduce elections nullifications.

Prevalence of cardiometabolic outcomes in women who underwent salpingo-oophorectomy to prevent hereditary breast and ovarian cancer: a meta-analysis.

Risk reduction salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) is usually performed in women with hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutation carriers, resulting in surgical menopause, which is more associated with a high risk of cardiovascular and metabolic disease than in premenopausal and natural menopausal women. This study assessed the prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes in women who underwent salpingo-oophorectomy as a preventive measure against HBOC. This meta-analysis assessed prevalence rates for four metabolic/cardiovascular conditions: myocardial infarction, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and type 2 diabetes mellitus. DerSimonian and Laird random-effects models were applied to all analyses, with 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity was assessed with I². We used OpenMeta Analyst software for statistical analysis. A total of five retrospective studies and one observational study involving 1,320 patients were included. The average body mass index (BMI) was 25.97kg/m2 and the average waist circumference was 87.94cm. The analysis across a mean 4.94-year follow-up revealed prevalence rates for acute myocardial infarction of 1.5% (95% CI 0.3-2.7; P = 0.077; I²=56.25%), hypertension of 28% (95% CI 6.9-49.1; P < 0.001; I2 = 98.42%), hypercholesterolemia of 27.2% (95% CI 6.8-47.6; P < 0.001; I²=98.67%), and type 2 diabetes mellitus of 3.3% (95% CI 1.1-5.5; P < 0.001; I²=82.44%). Our findings suggest that there is no marked increase in cardiovascular risk among women with HBOC undergoing RRSO.

Understanding dermatological health challenges in rural communities - An epidemiological study

Skin diseases contribute to significant morbidity to the patients which have geographical variation. There are many hospital-based studies describing the distribution of dermatoses but social and preventive health camps conducted in rural areas often give the real portrait of the dermatological burden in entire population. To provide a detailed overview of the prevalence of skin diseases in a rural area. This is cross sectional study conducted in people attending preventive health camps in Pudukottai district over a period of 3months. Patients with various dermatological complaints are diagnosed clinically and details recorded using a proforma tailored for recording dermatology conditions. Statistical analysis was made according to patient profile, final diagnosis and appropriate treatment suggested. Awareness about the preventive measures were educated.In our study, among the 5870 patients attending the dermatology campy, 1468 had dermatological complaints. Males outnumbered females and the most common age group is 40-60years. Non-infectious dermatoses were predominant, some of them include eczema, appendageal and pigmentary disorders. Infectious dermatoses are the second common, among them the fungal infections top the list followed by bacterial and arthropod infections. Planning of the health programmes should be tailored to the individual needs of a community. This study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of dermatological conditions in the studied rural population. Further researches are warranted to enhance diagnostic, therapeutic and preventive strategies for these conditions.

A computationally efficient method for induction motor bearing fault detection based on parallel convolutions and semi-supervised GAN

ABSTRACT Accurate and timely bearing fault detection is imperative for optimal system functioning and the implementation of preventative maintenance measures. Deep learning models provide viable solutions to these malfunctions, however, the lack of labelled data makes the training both expensive and cumbersome. To remedy this, various semi-supervised approaches have surfaced in the last decade, significantly mitigating the need for extensive labelled data but with added computational cost. This study proposes one such approach by leveraging generative adversarial networks (GAN) trained on a time-frequency based representation. The proposed Parallel Convolutions Semi-Supervised GAN, namely PC-SSGAN, uses bottleneck parallel convolutions blocks to capture multi-scale features in both local and global contexts, lacing both the generator and discriminator with enhanced feature extraction capabilities and simultaneously reducing the parameters and training time. The Proposed framework is evaluated on two distinct open-source datasets. The classification accuracy for both models exceeded 99.50%. Moreover, the proposed parallel convolutions-based architecture spent approximately 33% less time on training than the normal convolutional layers. It has been foreseen that the proposed fault detection system can be integrated into the motor fault tolerant control system to produce a unified framework that can make informed decisions to handle the bearing faults effectively.

Bots in web survey interviews: A showcase

Cost- and time-efficient web surveys have progressively replaced other survey modes. These efficiencies can potentially cover the increasing demand for survey data. However, since web surveys suffer from low response rates, researchers and practitioners start considering social media platforms as new sources for respondent recruitment. Although these platforms provide advertisement and targeting systems, the data quality and integrity of web surveys recruited through social media might be threatened by bots. Bots have the potential to shift survey outcomes and thus political and social decisions. This is alarming since there is ample literature on bots and how they infiltrate social media platforms, distribute fake news, and possibly skew public opinion. In this study, we therefore investigate bot behavior in web surveys to provide new evidence on common wisdom about the capabilities of bots. We programmed four bots – two rule-based and two AI-based bots – and ran each bot N = 100 times through a web survey on equal gender partnerships. We tested several bot prevention and detection measures, such as CAPTCHAs, invisible honey pot questions, and completion times. The results indicate that both rule- and AI-based bots come with impressive completion rates (up to 100%). In addition, we can prove conventional wisdom about bots in web surveys wrong: CAPTCHAs and honey pot questions pose no challenges. However, there are clear differences between rule- and AI-based bots when it comes to web survey completion.