Role of vildagliptin and its combination in type 2 diabetes mellitus management: a knowledge, attitude, and practice survey among Indian healthcare professionals

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a prevalent condition, with a significant burden in India, affecting approximately 74.2 million individuals. Vildagliptin, a selective dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP-4) inhibitor, is approved globally for monotherapy and combination therapy. Recently, it became available as a generic product, which increased its accessibility to patients. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding vildagliptin and its combination in T2DM management. Methods: A pan-India cross-sectional KAP survey was conducted from February 2022 to March 2023. The survey utilized a specially designed questionnaire focusing on various aspects of vildagliptin treatment. A total of 1,440 healthcare professionals (HCPs) with recognized qualifications and experience in diabetes management participated. Descriptive statistics were employed for data analysis. Results: HCPs reported initiating Vildagliptin monotherapy at an HbA1c 6.5-7.5%, while combination therapy with vildagliptin and metformin at HbA1c 7-8%. Vildagliptin was primarily preferred as an add-on to metformin. Inadequate HbA1c control with existing therapy emerged as the primary trigger for switching to vildagliptin and metformin combination. Treatment-na飗e T2DM patients with HbA1c 1.5% above target and those uncontrolled on metformin monotherapy or dual therapy were reported to benefit most from combination therapy. Combination therapy was reported to result in a glycemic reduction of 1.0-1.5%. HCPs perceived vildagliptin better than other DPP4 inhibitors due to its efficacy in reducing HbA1c and a lower risk of hypoglycemia. Conclusions: The KAP survey highlights the value Indian HCPs place on the effectiveness and tolerability of vildagliptin and their attitudes and practices in its use, highlighting its clinical utility in routine practice.

Role of mirabegron in the management of overactive bladder: a knowledge, attitude, and practice survey among Indian healthcare professionals

Background: Overactive bladder (OAB) is identified by urinary urgency, with or without urgency urinary incontinence, typically accompanied by increased daytime urinary frequency and nocturia, in the absence of proven infection or other evident pathology. Methods: A cross-sectional, observational, questionnaire-based knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) survey was conducted across India from January 2022 to July 2023 to understand OAB therapy through 14 multiple朿hoice questions containing questionnaire shared with 1, 029 healthcare professionals (HCPs), including urologists, surgeons, nephrologists, and consulting physicians. Results: The HCPs see 10-20% of patients daily in clinical practice, wherein 5-10% are females. Patients usually consult general practitioners first and then other specialists. Although anticholinergics are commonly used in the management of OAB, HCPs reported that side effects (57%) and the high cost of therapy (43%) were mainly responsible for discontinuing anticholinergics. Mirabegron was preferred by 67% of HCPs in the treatment of these patients. Mirabegron is also preferred as a first-line treatment by all HCPs in this survey. It is prescribed for 6-12 months, has a response rate of >75% in clinical practice, and offers a more favourable side-effect profile compared to anticholinergics. In cases where patients do not respond to anticholinergics or experience treatment failure, a combination therapy of mirabegron and solifenacin is preferred. Conclusions: The survey highlights the use of mirabegron as a first-line treatment for OAB, its better side-effect profile, and its role in combination therapy with solifenacin for patients unresponsive to anticholinergics, ultimately improving the quality of life of patients.

Prescription pattern of inhalational medications for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease in India: insights from cross-sectional survey of pulmonologists across India

Background: Treatment of COPD depends on disease severity, phenotype and exacerbation risk. Inhaled medications are the treatment of choice in COPD. We undertook this survey to find the most commonly prescribed inhalational medication in COPD as per the severity of the disease. Methods: It was a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey of pulmonologists in real-world clinical practice settings conducted across India. Results: The participants included 806 pulmonologists across India. Seventy-five per cent of pulmonologists ranked symptom relief, reduction in the frequency of exacerbations and improvement in lung function as the most important treatment targets. In COPD patients falling under GOLD group A, the treatment choice by pulmonologists in descending rank order was fomroterol/glycopyrronium (32%), ipratropium (38%), and tiotropium (30%) and for gold group B, this was fomroterol/glycopyrronium (34%), followed by indacaterol/glycopyrronium (26%) and tiotropium/formoterol (40%). In the GOLD group E, triple therapy (formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide) was preferred by 41% of pulmonologists. In the frequent exacerbator, predominant emphysema, chronic bronchitis and concomitant asthma phenotype, 44%, 38%, 46% and 32% of pulmonologists ranked formoterol/ glycopyrronium/budesonide as their preferred 1st therapy, respectively. Among COPD patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) comorbidity, 31% of pulmonologists selected formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide as 1st-preference drug therapy. Similar results were obtained for COPD patients with metabolic syndrome comorbidity. Conclusions: For the management of COPD patients, pulmonologists predominantly preferred a triple drug combination of formoterol/glycopyrronium/budesonide in GOLD group E and also in patients with cardiovascular and metabolic comorbidities. Fomroterol/glycopyrronium was the most preferred combination for GOLD group A and GOLD group B.

Menopausal problems and related health promotion behaviours among post-menopausal women

Background: Menopause is a natural biological process that ends a woman's reproductive years. The typical age range is 45 to 55 years old, with an average age of approximately 51. In addition to symptoms including mood swings, hot flashes, nocturnal sweats, dry vagina, and disrupted sleep, women can face a variety of issues, including irregular menstrual periods. The purpose of the study was to identify the menopause-related health promotion behaviours among post-menopausal women.Methods: Descriptive survey design was used for this study. One-stage cluster probability sampling was used for the selection of 108 post-menopausal women. After getting consent from the participants data was collected through an interview schedule and a health promotion behaviour assessment tool. The Institutional Ethics Committee granted ethical clearance before the study began. Before data was collected, each participant gave their written informed consent.Results: Out of 108 participants, 51.8% of them followed good dietary habits, 26.8% engaged in exercises daily and those who practiced stress reduction measures like yoga, and meditation were 23.1%.Conclusions: The study results show that menopausal women are unaware of the health promotion behaviours that should be adopted in managing menopausal problems. This provides evidence for giving importance to menopausal problems and related health promotion behaviours.

Community based household data collection in a post pandemic world-challenges and way forward

The COVID pandemic has instilled fear in the community creating challenges for household data collection. A community-based household survey was planned to assess knowledge and perception about air pollution caused by vehicular traffic and related ailments among residents of Delhi along with willingness to accept (WTA)/willingness to pay (WTP) discount/premium to discontinue/continue the use of private vehicles for their daily office commute. Access into households was difficult due to heightened sensitivity in post COVID situation. Respondents were not available during working hours. Researchers reached out to participants at workplaces, community events, during weekends or after office hours. Safety of researchers due to odd working hours was a concern. Researchers in post-pandemic world need to plan for multiple modes to access participants. Timelines of the data collection phase need to be sensitive for higher proportion of refusals and necessary permissions. Higher investments in effective communication skills are necessary.

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on diet and lifestyle of undergraduate medical students of South India-a cross sectional study

Background: COVID-19, infectious disease caused by the Corona virus, caused economic and social disruptions all over the World. In order to contain this pandemic, complete/partial lock down was declared in different parts and thus restricting all human activities. Lifestyle behaviours, especially eating habits, physical activity and sleep patterns changed causing complications such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. The prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress increased among the public. Methods: The study is conducted among medical students to find out the extent of after effects of COVID pandemic on the diet and life style of medical students. Online questionnaire was used to access the lifestyle and exercise patterns of medical students across South India. Results: The study reveals that the pandemic has led to notable shifts in the daily routines, eating habits, and overall well-being of this demographic. Factors such as increased stress, remote learning, and limited social interactions have played a crucial role in these changes. Significant change in hours of sleep, and change in sitting and screen time has been observed. Slight increase in the daily intake of fruits and vegetables, intake of balanced diet and immunity-boosting food, consumption of junk food/fast food and fried food has been observed. The consumption of unhealthy food when bored or stressed is also slightly increased. There is also slight change in quality of sleep and participation in exercise.

Effectiveness of planned teaching programme on knowledge and practice regarding secondary survey of trauma patients among trauma nursing officers

Background: Secondary survey is crucial for quickly and methodically evaluating damaged patients from head to toe, discovering any injuries that were underlooked in the first survey, and quickly and methodically evaluating polytrauma patients when it's unclear what's causing their symptoms. The study aimed to assess the knowledge and practice of secondary survey in nursing officers in AIIMS Rishikesh. Methods: This pre-experimental (one group pre-test and post test research) study was conducted to assess the effectiveness of planned teaching programme. 30 minutes of secondary survey class followed by demonstration of same. Using non- probability convenient sampling technique, total of 133 nursing officers were selected from Trauma Center of AIIMS Rishikesh. Self structured questionnaire was given to participants and practice was assessed using practice checklist. Results: The pre-test and post-test mean knowledge was found 14.08 and 18.40 and mean practice was 12.51 and 31.11 indicating the enhancement of knowledge and practice (tcal 130.28 >t table1.98 at p <0.05). Difference between pre-test knowledge (14.08±2.455) and Pre-test practice (12.51±5.188) indicate adequate knowledge with inadequate practice. Conclusions: The study concluded that the secondary survey knowledge and practice improves with adequate guidance and information. So, there is need for regular training session for trauma nursing officers to sustain this information and practice enhancement can be done by regularly implementing practice checklist in documentation.

Tendencias en la cirugía de artroplastía total de rodilla en Chile. ¿Cómo las estamos operando? / Trends in total knee replacement surgery in Chile. How are we operating them?

INTRODUCCION La artroplastía total de rodilla (ATR), que ha tenido un aumento importante en la población en las últimas décadas, presenta una gran variación en su estudio y técnica entre los distintos países. En la actualidad no hay datos nacionales registrados que evalúen la forma de su implementación. Objetivo Registrar las tendencias respecto de la ATR en distintos aspectos en Chile y compararlas con los registros de otros países. MATERIALES y METODOS Se realizó una encuesta vía email a cirujanos de rodilla en Chile considerando cuatro aspectos: generalidades, estudio preoperatorio, técnica quirúrgica y técnica de cementación. Se excluyeron las encuestas que no rellenadas por completo. Se analizaron los datos generales y separados según años de experiencia (ADE). Se compararon los datos con los obtenidos en estudios internacionales. RESULTADOS Se obtuvieron 87 encuestas completas. La mayoría de los encuestados realizaba entre 25 y 50 ATR en 1 año (44%), y el 16%, más de 75. Sólo un 20% utilizaba la modalidad ambulatoria, y un 43% creía que siempre deben ser hospitalizadas (mayor frecuencia en los cirujanos con más de 10 ADE). Un 18% utilizaba algún sistema robótico, con mayor frecuencia en cirujanos con más de 10 ADE; los sistemas más usados fueron ROSA y CORI. El 90% creía que la ATR debería ser parte del programa de Garantías Explícitas de Salud (GES), sin diferencias según ADE. El 81% usaba sistema estabilizado posterior (posterior-estabilized, PS, en inglés), 96% realizaba un abordaje parapatelar medial, 82% usaba guía extramedular tibial, 41% tendía a recambiar la patela, y un 35% no usaba torniquete (ninguna de las variables mostró diferencias según ADE). Sólo un 31% utilizaba cementación al vacío (mayor frecuencia en el grupo con menos de 10 ADE), 95% colocaba el cemento en componentes y en hueso, 75% colocaba en la quilla, y 56% utilizaba el dedo para colocarlo (sólo 22% con pistola). La secuencia más frecuente de cementación fue tibia-fémur-patela. En la mayoría de los aspectos evaluados, se observaron diferencias importantes con estudios de otros países. CONCLUSION Existe una gran variabilidad en la realización de ATR en Chile, con tendencias distintas a las de otros países. En general, en relación con los distintos ADE, no hay grandes diferencias en la técnica quirúrgica, sí habiendo diferencias en la técnica de cementación y en el uso de sistemas robóticos

INTRODUCTION Total knee replacement (TKR) significantly increased among the population in recent decades, and it shows great variation in its study and technique in different countries. There is no registered Chilean data to assess TKR implementation. Objective To record the trends in TKR in different aspects within Chile and compare them with records from other countries. MATERIALS AND METHODS We conducted an email survey among knee surgeons in Chile considering four aspects: general features, preoperative study, surgical technique, and cementation technique. We excluded surveys not completed in full. The analyses included overall data and data per years of experience (YOEs), and we compared the results with those of international studies. RESULTS We obtained 87 complete surveys. Most respondents performed 25 to 50 TKRs each year (44%), with only 16% performing over 75 TKRs. Only 20% used the ambulatory modality, while 43% believed patients always require hospitalization (especially surgeons with more than 10 YOEs). Robotic systems were used by 18% of the surgeons, especially those with more than 10 YOEs; the most used systems were ROSA and CORI. In total 90% of the respondents believed TKR should be part of the Explicit Health Guarantees (Garantías Explícitas de Salud, GES, in Spanish) program, with no differences in terms of YOEs. A total of 81% used the posterior-stabilized (PS) system, 96% performed a medial parapatellar approach, 82% used an extramedullary tibial guide, 41% tended to replace the patella, and 35% did not use a tourniquet (none of the variables showed differences according to YOEs). Only 31% used vacuum cementation (with a higher frequency in the group with fewer than 10 YOEs), 95% placed cement on components and bone, 75% placed it in the keel, and 56% used finger packing (only 22% with a gun). The most common cementation sequence was tibia femur-patella. In most aspects evaluated, we observed important differences compared with studies from other countries. CONCLUSION There is a high variability in the performance of TKR in Chile, with different trends compared with those of other countries. Overall, there are no major differences in the surgical technique concerning YOEs, although there is variation in the cementation technique and the use of robotic systems

Construcción y validación de un cuestionario sobre actitudes hacia la higiene de manos / Construction and validation of a questionnaire on attitudes towards hand hygiene

INTRODUCCIÓN: La higiene de manos es la medida más eficaz para prevenir las infecciones asociadas al cuidado de la salud. Las actitudes hacia esta práctica tan sencilla, influyen en el grado de adherencia. OBJETIVO: Desarrollar y validar un instrumento para evaluar las actitudes hacia la higiene de manos en estudiantes de Licenciatura en Enfermería. MÉTODO: Se realizó un estudio observacional y de corte transversal. Una vez construido el instrumento se realizó la validez de contenido mediante el juicio de expertos. Para la validez de constructo se realizó análisis factorial exploratorio. Posteriormente se calculó la confiabilidad, que incluyó la consistencia interna y la estabilidad del cuestionario. RESULTADOS: Participaron 313 estudiantes de Licenciatura en Enfermería de ocho universidades de Argentina. Se calculó el Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO = 0,720) y se obtuvo una prueba de esfericidad de Bartlett significativa (x2 = 831,2; = 0,000). El análisis factorial exploratorio determinó la existencia de un único factor. El modelo explicó el 54% de la varianza. Se utilizó la implementación mejorada de la estimación Bayesiana EAP integrada en el programa FACTOR, que fue de 0,85 y se realizó test-retest utilizando análisis de correlación que arrojó un r = 0,64 (p ≤ 0,001). CONCLUSIONES: El cuestionario sobre actitudes hacia la higiene de manos (CAHM) presenta una adecuada validez y confiablidad, por lo que puede ser utilizado para indagar sobre este factor predisponente de adherencia hacia la higiene de manos.

BACKGROUND: Hand hygiene is the most effective measure to prevent health care-associated infections. Attitudes towards this simple practice influence the level of adherence. AIM: To develop and validate an instrument for the evaluation of attitudes towards hand hygiene in nursing students. METHOD: An observational and cross-sectional study was carried out. Once the instrument was constructed, content validity was carried out through expert judgment. For construct validity, exploratory factor analysis was performed. Subsequently, the analysis of construct validity and reliability was calculated, which included the internal consistency and stability of the questionnaire. RESULTS: 313 Nursing undergraduate students from 8 universities in Argentina participated. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO = 0.720) was calculated, and a significant Bartlett sphericity test was obtained (x2 = 831.2; = 0.000). The exploratory factor analysis determined the existence of a single factor. The model explained 54% of the variance. The improved implementation of the Bayesian EAP estimation integrated in the FACTOR program was used, which was 0.85; and test-retest was also performed using correlation analysis that yielded r = 0.64 (p ≤ 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: The Questionnaire on attitudes towards hand hygiene (CAHM) has adequate validity and reliability, so it can be used to investigate this predisposing factor of adherence to hand hygiene.

Factors associated with the health and reproductive autonomy of Quilombola women in Brazil / Factores asociados a la salud y la autonomía reproductiva de las mujeres quilombolas en Brasil / Fatores associados à saúde e autonomia reprodutiva de mulheres quilombolas no Brasil

Objective.To verify the association between reproductive autonomy and sociodemographic, sexual, and reproductive characteristics in Quilombola women (a term indicating the origin of politically organized concentrations of Afro-descendants who emancipated themselves from slavery).Methods. Cross-sectional and analytical study with 160 women from Quilombola communities in the southwest of Bahia, Brazil. Data were collected using the Reproductive Autonomy Scale and the questionnaire from the National Health Survey (adapted).Results. Out of the 160 participating women, 91.9% declared themselves as black, one out of every three were aged ≤ 23 years, 53.8% were married or had a partner, 38.8% had studied for ≤ 4 years, over half (58.1%) were unemployed, only 32.4% had a monthly income > R$ 430 (80 US dollars), 52.5% had their first menstruation at the age of 12, 70.7% had not accessed family planning services in the last 12 months, and over half used some method to avoid pregnancy (59.0%). The women had a high level of reproductive autonomy, especially in the "Decision-making" and "Freedom from coercion" subscales with a score of 2.53 and 3.40, respectively. A significant association (p<0.05) was found between the "Total reproductive autonomy" score and marital status, indicating that single or unpartnered women had higher autonomy compared to married or partnered women. Conclusion.The association of social determinants of health such as marital status, education, and age impacts women's reproductive choices, implying risks for sexual and reproductive health. The intergenerational reproductive autonomy of Quilombola women is associated with sociodemographic and reproductive factors.

Objetivo. Verificar la asociación entre autonomía reproductiva y características sociodemográficas, sexuales y reproductivas en mujeres quilombolas (término que indica procedencia de concentraciones de afrodescendientes políticamente organizadas que se emanciparon de la esclavitud). Métodos. Estudio transversal y analítico con 160 mujeres de comunidades quilombolas del sudoeste de Bahía, Brasil. Los datos fueron recolectados utilizando la Escala de Autonomía Reproductiva y el cuestionario de la Encuesta Nacional de Salud (adaptado). Resultados. De las 160 mujeres participantes 91.9% se declararon negras, una de cada tres tenía edad ≤ 23 años, 53.8% estaban casada o tenían pareja, 38.8% había estudiado por ≤ 4 años, más de la mitad (58.1%) no trabajaba, solo 32.4% tenía renta > R$ 430 mensual (87 $US dólares), el 52.5% tuvo la primera menstruación a los 12 años, 70.7% no había acudido a servicios de planificación familiar en los últimos 12 meses y más de la mitad usaba algún método para evitar embarazo (59%). Las mujeres tuvieron un alto nivel de autonomía reproductiva, especialmente en las subescalas "Toma de decisiones" y "Ausencia de coerción" con una puntuación de 2.53 y 3.40, respectivamente. Se encontró asociación significativa (p<0.05) entre la puntuación de "Autonomía reproductiva total" con el estado civil, indicando el análisis que las mujeres solteras o sin pareja tenían mayor autonomía en comparación con las casadas o con pareja. Conclusión. La asociación de determinantes sociales de la salud como el estado civil, la escolaridad y la edad interfieren en las opciones reproductivas de las mujeres, implicando riesgos para la salud sexual y reproductiva. La autonomía reproductiva intergeneracional de las mujeres quilombolas está asociada a factores sociodemográficos y reproductivos.

Objetivo. Verificar a associação entre a autonomia reprodutiva e características sociodemográficas, sexuais e reprodutivas em mulheres quilombolas (termo que indica a origem de concentrações politicamente organizadas de pessoas de ascendência africana que se emanciparam da escravatura). Métodos. Estudo transversal e analítico com 160 mulheres (80 mães e 80 filhas) de comunidades quilombolas no sudoeste baiano, no Brasil. Os dados foram construídos através da aplicação da Escala de Autonomia Reprodutiva e do questionário da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (adaptado). Resultados. das 160 mulheres participantes 91.9% se autodeclararam negra, a maioria com idade ≤ 23 anos (35.6%), 53.8% são casadas ou com companheiro, 38.8% com estudos ≤ 4 anos, mais da metade (58.1%) não trabalham, apenas 32.4% têm renda > R$ 430, a maioria teve a primeira menstruação até os 12 anos de idade (52.5%), não participou de grupo de planejamento familiar nos últimos 12 meses (70.7%), mais da metade utilizava método para evitar a gravidez (59%). Apresentaram elevada autonomia reprodutiva, com destaque para as subescalas "Tomada de decisão" e "Ausência de coerção" medindo 2.53 e 3.40, respectivamente. Encontrou-se associação significativa (p<0.05) entre o escore de "Autonomia reprodutiva total" e estado conjugal, com a análise indicando que mulheres solteiras ou sem companheiro apresentaram maior autonomia, comparadas às mulheres casadas ou com companheiro. Conclusão. A associação dos determinantes sociais de saúde como estado civil, menarca, escolaridade e idade interferem nas escolhas reprodutivas das mulheres, implicando em riscos à saúde sexual e reprodutiva. A autonomia reprodutiva intergeracional das mulheres quilombolas está associada a fatores sociodemográficos e reprodutivos.

Lovastatin Use in Transplant: A Review and Survey

Despite advancements in cardiac transplant therapies, rejection remains a significant issue. Lovastatin, a statin drug with promising immunomodulatory effects, has garnered attention as a potential treatment for heart transplant rejection. Studies collectively highlight lovastatin's ability to influence T-cell activation, reduce acute rejection episodes, and maintain graft function. These findings offer promising avenues for enhancing transplant success rates and patient outcomes with the use of lovastatin. This survey aimed to explore opinions on lovastatin's use in rejection management post-heart transplantation. Participants from diverse backgrounds were surveyed on lovastatin's candidacy, perceived risks of non-approved drugs, and dyslipidemia prophylaxis importance. Analysis of 39 respondents revealed demographic trends, predominantly female (59%) and aged 18-24 (82.1%), primarily from Maryland and Virginia. Most had prior employment, with many in pharmacy-related roles, and held a 4-year degree as their highest education level. While 70.3% recognized lovastatin as a statin, opinions on its efficacy varied. Notably, 51.4% believed it should be considered for rejection management. Demographic comparisons showed significant differences in opinions, such as age groups differing in lovastatin's suitability (p = 0.003) and awareness of unapproved medications (p < 0.001). The study underscores diverse perspectives on lovastatin's efficacy for heart transplant rejection, emphasizing the need for further investigation. Patient education and dyslipidemia prevention are recognized as crucial for transplant survival. Given the array of viewpoints, more research is warranted to elucidate lovastatin's safety and effectiveness in this context.

Seroprevalence and levels of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies among medical students: possible associated factors in Northeastern Brazil / Soroprevalência e níveis de anticorpos anti-síndrome respiratória aguda grave coronavírus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entre estudantes de medicina: possíveis fatores associados no Nordeste do Brasil

Objective: we evaluated the seroprevalence and levels of anti-severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) antibodies among medical students and the possible associated factors. Methods: a survey was conducted using the data collected in November 2020 and February 2022 in Fortaleza, Northeast Brazil. A questionnaire was administered, and blood and nasopharyngeal swab samples were collected. The Abbott test was used for the assessment of humoral response to the SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) and nucleocapsid (N) proteins. The total antibodies were detected using a SARS-CoV-2 antibody test (Wodfo). Swab samples were subjected to qualitative detection of viral RNA. Chi-square test and multinomial logistic regression analysis were performed using SPSS and GraphPad Prism. Results: the seroprevalence rate in 2020 was 6.22% (40/643), and no difference in prevalence was observed between the semesters (p=0.520). The seroconversion rate was 51.1%. The seropositivity rates were 48.9% for N antibodies and 100% for S antibodies. The antibody response to N protein was higher in 2022 (p<0.001). Loss of smell was the most prevalent positive symptom (p=0.032). The adherence rate to protection measures was >75%. Most students reported a decrease in family income (63.7%), an increase in anxiety (82.6%), and a negative impact on their mental health (85.7%) regardless of the seroconversion status. The worst indicators of mental health quality were observed in students who attended classes up to the eighth semester (p<0.001). Conclusion: students showed lower immune response than the general population, with excellent adherence to the preventive and control measures. Medical schools played an important role in the formation but not transmission.

Objetivo: avaliamos a soroprevalência e os níveis de anticorpos anti-síndrome respiratória aguda grave coronavírus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) entre estudantes de medicina e os possíveis fatores associados. Métodos: foi realizada uma pesquisa com dados coletados em novembro de 2020 e fevereiro de 2022 em Fortaleza, Nordeste do Brasil. Um questionário foi aplicado e amostras de sangue e swab nasofaríngeo foram coletadas. O teste de Abbott foi utilizado para avaliação da resposta humoral às proteínas spike (S) e nucleocapsídeo (N) do SARS-CoV-2. Os anticorpos totais foram detectados usando um teste de anticorpos SARS-CoV-2 (Wodfo). Amostras de swab foram submetidas à detecção qualitativa de RNA viral. O teste qui-quadrado e a análise de regressão logística multinomial foram realizados utilizando SPSS e GraphPad Prism. Resultados: a taxa de soroprevalência em 2020 foi de 6,22% (40/643), e não foi observada diferença de prevalência entre os semestres (p=0,520). A taxa de soroconversão foi de 51,1%. As taxas de soropositividade foram de 48,9% para anticorpos N e 100% para anticorpos S. A resposta de anticorpos à proteína N foi maior em 2022 (p<0,001). A perda do olfato foi o sintoma positivo mais prevalente (p=0,032). A taxa de adesão às medidas de proteção foi >75%. A maioria dos estudantes relatou diminuição da renda familiar (63,7%), aumento da ansiedade (82,6%) e impacto negativo na saúde mental (85,7%), independentemente do estado de soroconversão. Os piores indicadores de qualidade em saúde mental foram observados nos alunos que frequentavam aulas até o oitavo semestre (p<0,001). Conclusão: os estudantes apresentaram resposta imunológica menor que a da população em geral, com excelente adesão às medidas preventivas e de controle. As escolas médicas desempenharam um papel importante na formação, mas não na transmissão.

Understanding perspectives of asthma among pulmonologists in Indian settings: results from a questionnaire-based survey

Background: Asthma is associated with high morbidity and mortality in India. This survey was undertaken to explore the perspectives of pulmonologists towards in-clinic management of patients with asthma. Methods: It was a cross-sectional survey of pulmonologists conducted across India. It was formulated to provide unbiased observations of real-world clinical practice focusing on methods of diagnosis of asthma and its treatment preferences. Results: The participants included 805 pulmonologists, with the majority primarily treating patients with asthma (62%), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (19%) and allergic rhinitis (19%). More than 86% of pulmonologists consider clinical symptoms, history of childhood asthma, family history, and chronic allergic rhinitis for initial diagnosis. About 19-23% prefer spirometry alone or in combination with family history for confirmation of asthma. The preferred inhaled corticosteroids-long-acting bronchodilator (ICS-LABA) combination was budesonide-formoterol amongst 83% of pulmonologists. For both dry powder inhaler (DPI) and metered dose inhaler (MDI) devices, fine particle fraction per cent and delivered dose were ranked as the two most important attributes. Conclusions: Asthma is the most prevalent diagnosis among patients treated by pulmonologists on the basis of clinical presentation and medical history. The most commonly used pharmacotherapy for the treatment of asthma comprises ICS-LABA, with budesonide-formoterol being the preferred combination. Fine particle fraction per cent and magnitude of delivered dose influence the choice of asthma inhaler prescriptions the most.

Clinical efficacy of periodontal endoscopy-assisted subgingival scaling and root planning and its effect on psychology and quality of life in patients with periodontitis / 口腔疾病防治

Objective@#To investigate the clinical efficacy and effects of periodontal endoscope (PE)-assisted subgingival scaling and root planning (SRP) and traditional SRP on the psychological and quality of life of patients with periodontitis.@*Methods@#This study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Committee, and informed consent was obtained from the patients. Patients with periodontitis who were treated in the Department of Periodontology, Nanjing Stomatological Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University from April 2018 to December 2022 with residual periodontal pockets (PD ≥ 5 mm) 6 weeks after traditional SRP treatment were enrolled, and the residual periodontal pockets were further treated with PE-assisted SRP (PE+SRP). After 6 weeks of traditional SRP treatment and 3 months of PE+SRP treatment, clinical indicators, including plaque index (PLI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment loss (CAL) and bleeding on probing (BOP), were measured, and periodontal tissue self-awareness scale scores, oral health impact profile-14 (OHIP-14) score and dental fear scale (DFS) score were collected. Moreover, visual analog scale (VAS) scores were collected after traditional SRP and PE-assisted SRP treatments.@*Results@#Twenty-three patients with periodontitis, including 832 sites of 486 affected teeth, were included in the clinical study. Three months after PE+SRP treatment, all clinical periodontal indicators, PLI (t = 9.254, P<0.001), PD (t = 50.724, P<0.001), CAL (t = 22.407, P<0.001) and BOP (t = 9.217, P<0.001), were significantly improved. Compared with traditional SRP (VAS: 2.48 ± 1.70), the pain caused by PE+SRP (VAS: 2.57±1.80) was not significantly different (t = 0,192, P = 0.850). There was no significant difference in the scores of the periodontal tissue self-awareness scale between the two groups (t = 1.485, P = 0.152). The OHIP-14 (SRP: 12.13±7.63; PE+SRP: 10.26 ± 5.25, t = -1.589, P = 0.126) and DFS (SRP: 40.70 ± 12.63; SRP+PE: 41.57 ± 12.61, t = 0.404, P = 0.690) scores were not significantly different.@*Conclusion@#All clinical periodontal indicators were significantly improved after PE-assisted SRP treatment of residual periodontal pockets, and compared with traditional SRP, PE-assisted SRP had no negative impact on the quality of life or psychological status of patients with periodontitis. Therefore, PE+SRP can be promoted in clinical practice.

Status of the poor vision among 3 014 primary school students in Wucheng district of Jinhua city and analysis of the influencing factors / 国际眼科杂志(Guoji Yanke Zazhi)

AIM: To explore the prevalence and influencing factors of poor vision among 3 014 primary school students in Wucheng District, Jinhua City, in order to provide evidence for the intervention measures of poor vision.METHODS: Using a cross-sectional study, a self-designed questionnaire was done, including general conditions and influencing factors of vision. The international standard logarithmic visual acuity chart was used for visual acuity detection. The risk factors that were statistically significant among the single factor groups were used as independent variables for multivariate Logistic regression analysis.RESULTS: A total of 1 367 students with poor vision were detected, the detection rate was 45.36%, among which mild poor vision rare was 26.08%; moderate rate was 11.51%; and severe rate was 7.76%. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that senior grades, parental myopia, daily insufficient sleep and outdoor activity, overuse of electronics or computers and no eye exercise were risk factors for poor vision.CONCLUSION: The rate of poor vision among the primary school students was severe, schools should take measures to improve and prevent students' poor vision by increasing outdoor activity time, correcting poor reading and writing posture, and reducing the time spent on electronic products.

Investigation of the current situation of pharmaceutical clinics in medical institutions in China / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To investigate the current situation of pharmaceutical clinic service in medical institutions in China and provide experience and suggestions for promoting the development of pharmaceutical clinics. METHODS Questionnaire survey was used to investigate the development of pharmaceutical clinics in medical institutions of 31 provinces （autonomous regions and municipalities directly under the central government） in March to April 2023， and the descriptive analysis was conducted. The regression analysis was carried out for the influential factors of pharmaceutical clinic service. RESULTS A total of 1 368 questionnaires were distributed in this survey and 1 304 valid questionnaires were collected with the effective response rate of 95.32%. A total of 463 medical institutions carried out pharmaceutical clinic service， the rate of which was 35.51% （463/1 304）； the rates of pharmaceutical clinics in tertiary， secondary， primary and other medical institutions were 52.80%， 17.18% and 5.88%， respectively. The frequency of opening pharmaceutical clinics was 3.17 days per week on average， with an average of 5.99 visiting pharmacists in each medical institution. Among the visiting pharmacists， clinical pharmacists accounted for the vast majority （88.68%， 2 459/2 773）. There were various categories of pharmaceutical clinics， including joint clinics and pharmacist-independent clinics； among pharmacist-independent clinics， pharmaceutical specialty/specialty disease clinics were the main ones， accounting for 89.72% of the total number of pharmaceutical clinics. The value of pharmacists in pharmaceutical clinics was manifested in various forms， among which the proportion of medical institutions charging pharmaceutical clinics was 10.80%. The main experiences in developing pharmaceutical clinics were to attach importance to discipline construction and personnel training. The main difficulties in developing pharmaceutical clinics were low compensation levels and a shortage of talent.The number of clinical pharmacists， the number of visiting pharmacists in pharmaceutical clinics and additional compensation were positively correlated with the amount of pharmaceutical clinic services（P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS In recent years， pharmaceutical clinics have made significant progress； in the future， it is still necessary to further strengthen discipline construction and talent cultivation， pay attention to the value embodiment of pharmacists， to promote the healthy development of pharmaceutical clinics.

Analysis of the frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation in Nanping, China / 中国辐射卫生

Objective To investigate the frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation in Nanping, China and its distribution, and to provide a basis for the rational application of therapy-oriented oral radiation and the effective allocation of resources in Nanping. Methods A questionnaire was designed to investigate the frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation in all oral radiation diagnosis and treatment institutions in Nanping. Results In 2021, there were 54 oral radiation diagnosis and treatment institutions and 79 oral radiation machines in Nanping. The total frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation was 61593 visits and the radiation frequency was 19.54 visits per thousand patients. The average annual frequency of medical institutions at all levels was 721.87 to 3713.25 visits per institution; the male-to-female composition ratio of frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation in December 2021 was 50.5%:49.5%. The proportion of radiation frequency of different devices was as follows: 38.7% (intraoral dental film), 46.5% (oral panorama), 10.3% (oral computed tomography [CT]), and 4.5% (cranial photography). The proportion of radiation frequency in patients of different ages was as follows: 17.1% (0−15 years), 48.2% (15−40 years), and 34.7% (over 40 years). The frequency of therapy-oriented oral radiation grew by 77.43%, 35.18%, and 8.16% every two years from 2015 to 2021, respectively. Conclusion The frequency level of therapy-oriented oral radiation in Nanping is at the level of Class II health care. The distribution of therapy-oriented oral radiation is highly unbalanced and is related to the level of economic development. Private healthcare institutions are growing rapidly, and public healthcare institutions of grade two and above occupy the main healthcare resources. The oral panorama accounts for the most, cranial photography accounts for the least, and oral CT is the fastest-growing portion. Therapy-oriented oral radiation is predominantly performed in the young and middle-aged populations, regardless of sex. Except for intraoral dental films, the general trend is upward.

Analysis on the status quo and influencing factors of medication belief in patients with myasthenia gravis / 重庆医学

Objective To explore the status quo of medication belief in the patients with myasthenia gravis and analyze their influencing factors,so as to provide reference for health care professionals to develop targeted interventions.Methods A total of 145 patients with myasthenia gravis visiting the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine from July 2021 to March 2022 were selected.The Be-liefs about Medicines Questionnaire(BMQ)was used to investigate.The multiple linear regression was used to analyze the relevant influencing factors.Results The scores of medication belief,necessity belief and con-cern belief in 145 patients were(4.17±1.23)points,(19.52±3.45)points and(18.29±4.26)points respec-tively.There was statistically significant difference between the scores of necessity belief and concern belief(P＜0.05).The education level,financial burden,duration of illness,length of medication,number of recur-rent hospitalizations,and inappropriate medication-induced exacerbations had influence on the medication be-lief scores of the patients with myasthenia gravis(P＜0.05).The duration of illness,length of medication and number of recurrent hospitalizations had the influence on the medication necessity scores of patients with my-asthenia gravis(P＜0.05).The financial burden had the influence on the medication concerns scores of the patients with myasthenia gravis(P＜0.05).Conclusion The medication belief in the patient swith myasthe-nia gravis is at a low level,and the number of recurrent hospitalizations and financial burden are the independ-ent risk factors affecting the medication belief scores in the patients with myasthenia gravis.The number of recurrent hospitalizations is an independent risk factor for the score of medication necessity dimension.

A cross-sectional survey on evidence-based nursing practice for pain assessment by nurses in China's class 3A hospitals / 重庆医学

Objective To explore the current situation of evidence-based nursing practice in pain assess-ment by nurses in China to provide the decision-making data for maximizing to relieve the patient pain by car-rying out the pain assessment evidence-based nursing practice.Methods The non-probability sampling meth-od was used to conduct an online anonymous survey in 63 class 3A hospitals in the whole country.The ques-tionnaire included the general information questionnaire and evidence-based nursing practice scale for pain as-sessment.The evidence-based nursing practice scale for pain assessment included the pain screening,compre-hensive pain assessment,exchange with the patients and their households in the pain assessment,pain re-as-sessment,pain assessment tool selection and record.The 5 dimensions were compared by using item equaliza-tion.The data analysis was performed by the SPSS26.0.Results A total of 1 518 questionnaires were recov-ered,in which 1 482 questionnaires were valid with an effective recovery rate of 97.62％.The evidence-based nurse practice of pain assessment by nurse was(108.40±17.96)points,the pain screening was(12.87±2.23)points,the item average score was the highest[(4.29±0.74)points],the communication with the patients and their household was(23.69±4.93)points and the item average score was the lowest[(3.94±0.82)points].The regression analysis showed that whether receiving the pain training and whether distinguishing active pain and resting pain had a positive effect on the practical behavior(P＜0.05).Conclusion The evi-dence-based nursing practice in pain assessment by nurses in the partial class 3A hospitals in China is in the upper medium level.However,the communication between the patients and their families is insufficient.Man-agers should constantly enrich the training content and methods,and guide nurses to strengthen the communi-cation between nurses and the patients.

Application and evaluation of diversified teaching mode in clinical teaching for medical students / 基础医学与临床

Objective To investigate the needs and feedback from clinical medical students on the diversified teaching mode adopted by the Department of Endocrinology in Peking Union Medical College Hospital.Methods Questionnaires were distributed to the medicine students who were in clinical rotation in Peking Union Medical Col-lege,and the teaching status and teaching effect was investigated.Results A total of 95 valid questionnaires were received.The attending physicians and the teaching resident physicians performed well in the daily teaching activi-ties.The medical students believed that outpatient training was necessary in addition to ward rotations.After the ro-tation in the endocrinology department,the self-evaluated score of mastery of endocrinology knowledge had been significantly improved,especially in those who rotated in outpatient clinic,suggesting that outpatient teaching was of great significance.In addition,the establishment of a self-learning platform including clinical cases and videos in endocrinology could be used as an important supplementary means for clinical teaching.Conclusions Outpatient training improves learning outcomes of medical students,so must be kept and further strengthened in the future.Building a database of typical clinical cases and teaching videos can improve the training quality.