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Research on long-term planning for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in India is non-existent. The mixed-methods study examined caregiver's expectations around the future planning of an adult with ASD and the barriers and facilitators to the future planning. The purposive sample included 139 caregivers to adults and adolescents with ASD who were part of the survey and 25 caregivers who participated in in-depth interviews. 40% of caregivers hadn't started planning for the future.The family was considered the ideal place to age, but perceived and objective barriers impacted caregivers' ability to plan for the future. The most common barrier that impacted all domains of long-term care was the fear of the unknown or the fear that none of the plans would fall in place. The study also identified resources and strategies used by parents to plan. Findings from the study can potentially impact policy, advocacy, and practice.

This research attempts to measure the direct and moderated influence of entrepreneurial passion (EP), motivation (EM) and creativity (EC) on intention (EI) while being moderated by entrepreneurship education (EE). This study also instrumentalizes the conditional interaction effect of fear of failure on the moderated paths. A data sample of 1090 business students from five Indian universities was subjected to screening and cleaning before establishing the measurement model and testing the hypotheses using structural equation modelling and Process Macro. EP, EM and EC were found to affect EI directly, while EE also moderated these links. Fear of failure was also found to be conditioning the moderated paths such that the positive moderation effect of EE on direct paths between EP, EM, EC and EI was stronger when students perceived no fear of failure. The study advances the existing literature on the moderating role of entrepreneurship education by recognizing the conditional interaction effect (moderated-moderation) of fear of failure on the moderating effects of entrepreneurship education. The authors also provide valuable suggestions for practice.

COVID-19 is yet not completely over; however, many people are hesitant to take COVID-19 vaccines despite their availability. Vaccine hesitancy is a major roadblock to attaining normalcy and controlling the spread of the COVID-19 virus. The present research used a multitheoretical framework (Health Belief Model, 3Cs framework, fatalism, and religious fatalism) to comprehend the complexity of vaccine hesitancy. Thus, the present study aimed at exploring vaccine hesitancy in India by using key components of the Health Belief Model, 3Cs framework, fatalism, religious fatalism, and some demographics as predictors. Data were collected electronically with the help of Google Forms from 639 Indian adults following snowballing and convenience sampling techniques with standardized measures (albeit some modifications to suit the context of the study). Descriptive analysis and hierarchical regression analysis were run in SPSS (V-22) to analyze the data. Results revealed that participants of the present study scored relatively high on vaccine hesitancy. Muslims as compared with Hindus and vaccination status emerged as significant predictors of vaccine hesitancy out of the demographic factors. Fear of COVID-19, vaccine convenience, and religious fatalism also significantly predicted vaccine hesitancy. Thus, a comprehensive approach is needed to strategically use these predictors to control vaccine hesitancy.

Purpose: This study estimated the prevalence of depressive disorders among PhD students and analyzed the underlying factors in the Indian context. Design/methodology/approach: The authors utilized an "Integrative framework" and a mixed-method approach involving survey and in-depth interviews. The survey was conducted among 240 PhD students using multistage cluster sampling in two public universities of Kerala, India. Data were collected using a self-administered Patient Health Questionnaire-9. In-depth interviews were conducted among 12 students using semi-structured interview guide. Multinomial regression and thematic analyses were undertaken to examine the factors associated with depressive disorders. Findings: About 31.7, 41.7, 17.9, 6.7 and 2.1% had no/minimal, mild, moderate, moderately severe and severe depressive disorders, respectively. Students belonging to economically weaker section (OR = 3.06; 95% CI = 1.32-7.12), having limited knowledge of local language (OR = 4.24; 95% CI = 1.00-17.95) and earning less than INR 20,000/month (OR = 2.36; 95% CI = 1.12-5.00) were more likely to report moderate to severe depressive disorders. In addition, thematic analyses of interviews found that financial hardship, disagreement between student-supervisor, compromised students' support services and an uncertain job market were the key factors affecting the mental health of students and inhibiting academic performance. Originality/value: This study adds to the existing literature by examining the prevalence and underlying factors of depressive disorders among doctoral students in the Indian context. The results of this study can act as a guide for universities and educational regulatory bodies to address the burgeoning issue of depressive disorders among research students in India.

Language anxiety is the feeling of anxiety, worry, nervousness, and apprehension proficiency in learning or using a second or foreign language. The feelings may branch from any second language structure whether it is related with the innovative skills of speaking and writing or the receptive skills of reading and listening. Fear of negative evaluation is observed among English language teachers when they are incompetent of assembly and lack of proper social thought, which is an apprehension towards evaluations by others and preclusion of evaluative situations. This study focused on the language anxiety and fear of negative evaluation of secondary school language teachers in Salem district. The investigator adopted normative survey method. Language anxiety and fear of negative evaluation questionnaire was the tool used for data collection. 90 secondary level language teachers were taken as the sample of the study using purposive sampling technique. Descriptive and inferential analyses were used for analyzing the data. This study aims to examine the language anxiety and fear of negative evaluation in secondary level language teachers. The findings of the study showed that there is significant high positive relationship between language anxiety and fear of negative evaluation among secondary level of language teachers.

Aims: To compare the usefulness of DSM IV and ICD-10 DCR criteria in clinic children presenting with the symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity. Methods: 62 children (54 boys and 8 girls) participated in the study. Children were assessed on Kiddie schedule for affective disorders and schizophrenia--present and lifetime version and then diagnosed as attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or hyperkinetic disorder (HKD) as per DSM IV or ICD-10 DCR criteria. Comorbidities were diagnosed as per DSM IV criteria. Severity of symptoms was rated using Hillside Behavior Rating Scale (HBRS) while global assessment of functioning was assessed on Children's Global assessment Scale (CGAS). Results: All could be diagnosed with ADHD however, only 44 (71%) could be diagnosed as HKD. There was no statistically significant difference in most sociodemographic variables, severity of illness on HBRS and impairment on CGAS of the subjects diagnosed with ADHD and HKD and subjects with ADHD but not HKD (non-HKD-ADHD). Conclusions: DSM IV should be used because it diagnoses more children with impairing symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity-impulsivity as compared to ICD-10 DCR. Also, there is a significant overlap in between ADHD and HKD. (Contains 2 tables.)

Aim: To study the prevalence of psychiatric diagnosis and psychopathology in adolescent offspring of parents with panic disorder, depression and normal controls. Methods: Adolescent offspring (11-16 years) of parents with a diagnosis of panic disorder and major depression, and normal controls were interviewed using Missouri Assessment of Genetics Interview for Children (MAGIC), Scale for Childhood Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED), Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and the Children's Global Assessment Scale (CGAS). Results: Thirty three adolescent offspring of parents with panic disorder, 47 of parents with unipolar depression, and 37 of normal controls were interviewed. A diagnosis of simple phobia was made significantly more often in adolescent offspring of parents with panic disorder compared to controls. Adolescent offspring of parents with depression had significantly higher rates of panic disorder and depression compared to controls. The total scores on SCARED and SDQ were significantly higher among the offspring of parents with panic disorder and depression compared to controls and the former were more functionally impaired. Conclusions: There was an excess prevalence of psychopathology and a greater degree of functional impairment in adolescent offspring of parents with panic disorder and depression compared to adolescent offspring of normal controls. (Contains 2 tables.)

The present study investigated externalizing and internalizing behaviours in Greek (n = 599), Russian (n = 596), Indian (n = 571), and Chinese (n = 376) 7- to 12-year-old children. The Fairy Tale Test was used to measure impulsive and motivated aggression, fear of aggression, anxiety, and depression. The results indicated culture-specific patterns of the aforementioned behaviours. Greek children demonstrated the highest levels of impulsive and motivated aggression, while Russian children had the highest fear of aggression. Chinese children appeared to be most anxious among other cultural groups. Both Russian and Indian children were more depressed than their Greek and Chinese counterparts. Gender and age difference were obtained only for impulsive aggression. Regardless of culture, boys scored higher compared to girls; and 7- to 8-year-old children demonstrated higher level of impulsive aggression than older children. The obtained results are interpreted in light of contextual differences in child socialization in four cultures; suggestions for school psychology practices are offered. (Contains 2 tables.)

With the attendant rise of the number of medical colleges in India over past few decades, the demand for cadavers used in medical education and research is growing. However, there is an insufficient supply of donated cadavers available for dissection. This study was undertaken to assess the general population's awareness of body donation programs and willingness to donate in the State of Maharashtra, India. The willingness of participants to donate was compared with age, gender, and education of the respondents. A total of 625 adult individuals from the State of Maharashtra participated in a survey composed of questions about age, sex, education, awareness of body donation programs, and willingness to donate. It was found that 90.9% of the medical colleges surveyed reported an inadequate supply of cadavers. Of the general population, 32.1% of respondents were aware of body donation, compared to 95.83% of health care professionals. However, only 19.5% of the general population and 44.9% of health care professionals were willing to donate their bodies for anatomical education. Younger age groups, males, graduates, and postgraduates were found more willing to donate their bodies. Organ donation was preferred over body donation. A lack of awareness about body donation was the main factor responsible for respondents' "no body donation" response in the general population, along with firm religious beliefs and customs, the fear that the donated body will not be treated with respect and dignity, and the unacceptability of the dissection of one's own body. To overcome the current shortage of donated cadavers, efforts should be undertaken to change the mindset of the wider Indian society toward body donation. The authors believe this is possible through awareness campaigns and that prospective donors' concerns should be addressed appropriately. Proper guidance and assistance regarding body donation should be easily available for potential donors.

In 2005, children of sex workers from Kolkata's Sonagachi red-light district formed their own collective, Amra Padatik ("We are Foot Soldiers"), to work for gaining dignity for their mothers and claiming their own rights as children of sex workers. In this article the authors speak to AP's founder members to demystify the culture of fear associated with their lives--perpetuated through popular representations--not to underplay their acute experiences of disadvantage, but to foreground them as politically astute citizens and decision-makers in policies that concern and affect them--to replace the compassion-driven traditional 3Rs of raid, rescue, rehabilitation with 3 counter-Rs: resilience, reworking and resistance. (Contains 11 notes.)

This article reports on a small exploratory study of adolescent girls' experiences of sexual harassment and abuse while attending secondary school in Karnataka State, South India. In South Asia, public discussion of sexual matters, especially relating to children, is largely taboo, and the study uncovers a hidden aspect of schooling, which presents a further barrier to increasing girls' educational participation in India. Data from open-ended interviews and a participatory workshop in two schools revealed that girls were vulnerable to sexual harassment both within the school grounds (mostly by male pupils) and while travelling to and from school (by older boys and adult men), especially on public transport. For some girls, sexual harassment reduced their desire to continue their schooling, for others it increased their fear of being withdrawn if parents came to hear of any incident. Given the reluctance in patriarchal societies to address the abuse and exploitation of women and girls, the authors suggest that further research into this issue is urgently needed. (Contains 4 tables and 9 notes.)

Investigated cultural differences in the social and relationship aspects of sharing emotions. Indian, immigrant Indian and English adolescents recalled various emotional episodes and discussed the sharing of these experiences. Each emotion had a unique sharing pattern. Cross-cultural differences in sharing highlighted the greater importance and implication of the ingroup in Indian and immigrant Indian adolescents' emotional lives as compared to the English adolescents. (SM)

Background: Stroke survivors and their caregivers have numerous and diverse educational needs, many of which are unmet because of inadequate training from healthcare professionals. As stroke recovery and rehabilitation can continue for years post-stroke, it is critical that stroke survivors are provided with and have access to a range of support options and evidence-based information. Website-based education programs (WEP) have been adopted in recent years to manage health problems. The present pilot study aims to evaluate the effect of WEP on activities of daily living (ADLs) and the fear of falls among sub-acute stroke survivors. Methods: A total of 16 eligible post-stroke survivors were recruited from multiple study settings across Surat City of Gujarat state in western India and were randomly assigned using a lottery method to either the experimental group (n = 8) receiving WEP or the control group (n = 8) receiving conventional physiotherapy for 4 weeks. Outcome measures were the Indian Stroke Scale (ISS), Modified Barthel Index (MBI), and Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I). Results: Both groups showed statistically significant improvements in all outcomes but the experimental group showed more significant improvements in ADLs and fear of falls among sub-acute stroke survivors (p < 0.05). Conclusion: WEP for sub-acute stroke survivors is an effective intervention. It improves the performance of ADLs for stroke survivors and helps in better fall management indicating that web-based education programs shall be implemented on a regular basis to improve patient care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This paper aimed to explore the palliative care (PC) needs and barriers to access among cancer patients in a rural region of North India with a high cancer burden. Methods: A Participatory action research (PAR) approach was employed. Situational assessment, community sensitization workshops (CSWs) and door-to-door surveys were planned, conducted and developed over three PAR cycles. A parallel convergent mixed-methods approach was adopted wherein the quantitative data from door-to-door surveys and qualitative data from CSWs and investigator field notes were collected and analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of PC needs and barriers to access. Descriptive statistics and thematic analysis were used. Results: A total of 27 CSWs involving 526 stakeholders were conducted. A total of 256 cancer patients were assessed for PC needs and symptom burden using the Supportive and Palliative Care Indicators (SPICT-4ALL) and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System (ESAS) tool, respectively. Based on the SPICT assessment, all patients (n = 256) satisfied general and/or cancer-specific indicators for PC. The majority (56.6%) had ≥ one moderate-severe symptom, with the most common symptoms being tiredness, pain and loss of appetite. Analysis of qualitative findings generated three themes: unmet needs, burden of caregiving, and barriers and challenges. Cancer affected all domains of patients' and their families' lives, contributing to biopsychosocial suffering. Social stigma, discrimination, sympathizing attitudes and lack of emotional and material support contributed to psychosocial suffering among cancer patients and their caregivers. Lack of awareness, nearby healthcare facilities, transportation, essential medicines, trained manpower and education in PC, collusion, fear of social discrimination, faulty perceptions and misconceptions about cancer made access to PC difficult. Conclusions: The study emphasize the need for and provide a roadmap for developing context-specific and culturally appropriate CBPC services to address the identified challenges and needs. The findings point towards education of CHWs in PC; improving community awareness about cancer, PC, government support schemes; ensuring an uninterrupted supply of essential medicines; and developing active linkages within the community and with NGOs to address the financial, transportation, educational, vocational and other social needs as some of the strategies to ensure holistic CBPC services. Trial registration: Clinical Trial Registry of India (CTRI/2023/04/051357). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There are limited studies on barriers to seeking treatment for Alcohol Use Disorders (AUD) among males in tertiary care centers in India and abroad. Identification of these factors can aid in addressing the barriers to seeking treatment for AUD in low-and-middle-income countries. Objective: To investigate the barriers to seeking treatment for AUD among males in a tertiary care center in South India. Methods: The study design was cross-sectional. We employed a semi-structured interview proforma, Barriers Questionnaire (Alcohol), and assessed the age of onset of initiation of alcohol, problem drinking, and AUD. Results: The majority (73.3%) belonged to Low-Barrier group. Individual items such as "Denial of Alcoholism", "avoid others counseling", "don't like to talk in groups", "Worried about what others will think for taking help or made fun of by others", "Self or Family embarrassed of taking treatment", "cannot afford treatment due to various reasons", "Fear of losing job", "Fear of losing friends" and "Fear of seeing people" were significantly higher in High-Barrier group. Conclusions: Our study has helped to identify some of the important impediments. Psychoeducation and reducing the stereotypes related to the treatment of AUD can increase trust in the treatment process, resulting in greater help-seeking, early intervention, and improved quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Historical marginalisation and ongoing trust deficits in health and government systems shape present-day vaccine perceptions among marginalised communities. This paper sought to understand the role of trust in decision-making about COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the transgender and disability communities in India. Methods: Using a participatory approach we interviewed 24 community representatives, identifying themselves as transgender individuals or as persons with disability, and 21 key informants such as vaccine programme managers, vaccine providers, and community advocates. We undertook an inductive thematic analysis of the data using a socio-ecological model. Results: Fear of side effects in relation to specific needs of the two communities and mistrust of systems involved in vaccination shaped four different pathways for vaccine decision-making. Mistrust of systems was influenced by past negative experiences with the health system, creating contexts in which information and misinformation are shared and interpreted. Participants negotiated their doubts about safety and mistrust of systems by interacting with different sources of influence showing patterns of decision-making that are dynamic, context-dependent, and intersectional. Conclusion: These findings will help in determining the content, strategies and approaches to equitable vaccine communication for these two communities. The two communities ought to be included in vaccine trials. Vaccine information must respond to the specific needs of these two communities which could be enabled by collaboration and engagement with community members and influencers. Finally, long-term investment towards the needs of marginalised communities is vital to dismantle cycles of marginalisation and distrust and in turn improve vaccine acceptance and uptake. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To compare the changes in outcomes of balance and postural control after balance training exercise and gaze stability exercise in the elderly population with fall risk. After the screening process, 44 subjects were randomized into three groups: Experimental Group A (Balance training exercises, BTE); Experimental Group B (Gaze stability exercises, GSE), and Control Group C (Fall prevention education only). The outcome measures were center of pressure (COP) range, COP sway, reaction time, proprioception, static balance, Clinical Test for Sensory Interaction in Balance (CTSIB), and Short Falls Efficacy Scale (SFES). The pre and post-data were recorded at baseline and after 8 weeks. The normality of the distribution was assessed using the Shapiro-Wilk test. Demographic data and baseline measures were compared using one-way ANOVA considering group as between factor and mixed model ANOVA was used to find out the group effect and time effect and time × group interaction effect. Statistical significance was indicated if p ≤ 0.05. GSE had significant changes only in CTSIB 4 whereas BTE had significant changes in CTSIB 4, 5, and 6. COP range showed a significant time effect in the front direction (p = 0.02). For proprioception, there was a significant time effect in the left (p = 0.018) and right direction (p = 0.005), whereas changes in front and back directions were found to be insignificant. SFES showed a significant time effect (p < 0.001), group effect (p = 0.21), and time × group interaction effect (p < 0.001). Balance training exercises may be a more effective form of intervention to improve balance and postural control in the elderly population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this study is to explore how immigrant women and men from India construct mental health and mental illness in the perinatal period. Design: Qualitative interpretive design. Methods: Data were collected by conducting in‐depth interviews with 19 participants. Photo elicitation, free listing and pile sorting were used during the interviews. Purposive sampling was used, and data were collected in 2018 and 2019. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Finding/Results: One major theme and three subthemes were identified. 'We do not talk about it' was the major theme and the subthemes: (1) 'living peacefully and feeling happy' described the views on mental health; (2) 'that's the elephant in the room still' captures how participants felt when talking about mental illness; and (3) 'why don't we talk about it' offers reasons why the Indian community does not talk about mental health and illness. Conclusion: The findings of this study have highlighted the importance of understanding the impact of immigration and being culturally sensitive when assessing mental health in the perinatal period. Impact: The findings of this study identify some of the reasons for non‐disclosure of mental health issues by immigrants. Incorporating these findings during psychosocial assessment by health professionals in the perinatal period will help translate the cultural aspects into more effective communication. Patient or Public Contribution: Patient and public contribution to the study was provided by the Community Stakeholders Group; these were members of the immigrant community from India who had expertise in mental health. They contributed to the study design and the key terms and phrases for the free list used in interviews. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Health care professionals (HCPs) working on the frontlines of health care emergencies/pandemics often experience elevated anxiety, stress and reduced quality of sleep. Yoga is a mind-body practice that has been proven to effective in improving physical and mental health. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness of integrated Yoga intervention on mental health measures and sleep quality among HCPs working during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: This quasi-experimental study was conducted on 110 HCPs, including Doctors and nursing staff, with an age range of 20 to 65 years who were recruited through a convenience sampling method and assigned to a Yoga group (n = 55) or a control group (n = 55). The Yoga group received a weekly one-hour Yoga session followed by a 30-minute self-practice three times a week at home for one month. The control group followed routine activity. Heart rate (HR), Blood Pressure, stress measures (Perceived Stress and visual analogue Scale for Stress), COVID-related anxiety, Sleep Quality, Quality of life and Preservative Thinking were assessed before and after the intervention. RESULTS: A significant decrease in stress measures, COVID-19-related anxiety and fear, and perseverative thinking was noticed in the Yoga group. Sleep quality and quality of life also improved significantly. The control group showed no significant change. At one month, the Yoga group showed significantly greater improvement in stress measures, COVID-19-related anxiety and fear, perseverative thinking, sleep quality and quality of life compared to the control group. CONCLUSION: Yoga practice during the public health crisis would help reduce anxiety and stress and improve sleep among HCPs. Further randomized controlled trials are warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Compassion‐focused therapy (CFT) is transdiagnostic. It primarily targets shame and self‐criticism in persons with depression. While there have been studies in the West to explore the beneficial effects of CFT, there is a need to unpack how CFT functions in the East. Method: This study aimed to explore the utility and process of CFT in North‐East India. The authors tailored a 12‐session CFT module based on the suggestions of three local mental health professionals. A mixed‐method design was employed. Five mental health service users in a tertiary mental healthcare hospital diagnosed with depression based on ICD‐10 criteria were recruited in the study. For quantitative measurements, the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Others as Shamer Scale (OAS), Fears of Compassion Scales (FOC), The Forms of Self‐Criticizing and Reassuring Scale (FSCRS) and Compassionate Engagement and Action Scales (CEAS) were administered. Three time point assessments were taken, that is, baseline, post‐intervention and 1‐month follow‐up. To understand the process of CFT, qualitative narrative analysis was undertaken on session notes, memos and reflective journals focusing on the nature of compassion, blocks of compassion, sense of shame and self‐criticality. Results: Quantitative findings indicated improvement of depressive symptoms and changes in sense of shame, fear of compassion, self‐criticality, self‐reassuring tendencies and compassionate engagements and actions. The qualitative findings shed light on the process of CFT. Conclusion: The authors discussed the findings anchoring the existing theories of CFT and relevant studies. The findings support the preliminary evidence of the utility of CFT in persons with depression. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: In the working population especially among older adults, anxiety problems have grown dramatically. This element has a significant impact on employee absenteeism and problems with physical and mental health. It was widely known that security personnel had several physical and mental difficulties during their various work hours. It is important to investigate the effects of anxiety on them. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to provide insights into the prevalence of anxiety disorders and explore the correlations between anxiety symptoms, sleep, and memory during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: To conduct a cross-sectional study, 42 older adult participants between the ages of sixty to seventy years were chosen and the procedure was explained.Data were gathered by giving instructions on how to complete the self-reported Generalized Anxiety Disorder Assessment -7 (GAD-7), the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and the revised Everyday Memory Questionnaire. RESULTS: A total of 36 out of 42 participants (85.71%) experienced moderate to severe anxiety. Anxiety and sleep had a correlation of 0.8, while anxiety and memory had a correlation of 0.87 with a positive EMQ-R relationship. Moreover, there was a statistically significant association between sleep and memory, with a positive correlation of 0.73. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that, there is a substantial prevalence of anxiety accompanied by notable insomnia and memory problems in elderly security officers. Our findings indicate a clear relationship between sleep disturbances, memory issues, and most prevalent anxiety symptoms. These results emphasize the importance of incorporating mental health assessments and addressing an effective treatment for anxiety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pandemic has put at risk the social and emotional development of children on account of the paucity of arenas for social interaction. This study from Kerala, India was conducted to assess the resilience factors, behavioural concerns, psychological distress symptoms among the children aged 3 to 5 years. We also tried to look into the lost opportunities that could have aided the social and emotional development of children like peer interaction, child care hours. Methods: The cross-sectional study was conducted among the children aged 3 to 5 years. A total of 535 children attending the immunisation clinics were enrolled by consecutive sampling. Devereux Early Childhood Assessment P2 (DECA P2) questionnaire was used to assess the levels of resilient factors and behavioural concerns in the study population. Results: We observed a high proportion of children in the area of need category of protective factors under DECA P2. The proportion of children falling under area of concern was 64.5%, 49%, 68.4% for attachment/relationship, self-regulation, and initiative respectively. 24.9% study subjects have a behavioural concern score that puts them in the area of need category. The logistic regression model we created identified 'Male Gender,' 'Mothers could spend only less time for child care' and 'electronic devices used as pacifier' as significant predictors for belonging to Area of need Behavioural Concerns T score category. Conclusion: A large proportion of children aged between 3 to 5 years with reported behavioural concerns and lack of protective factors for socioemotional development. This can be attributed partly to the ongoing pandemic and its associated restrictions. The increased child care hours invested by parents or grandparents could have sized down the full impact that the pandemic would have had on the socio emotional development of the child. Increased time spent using electronic devices coupled with dwindled opportunities for interaction with peers have been notable challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This paper aims to describe a response to the needs of mental health workers (MHWs) in India during COVID-19 pandemic, through an online training program on trauma-informed intervention and care. Design/methodology/approach: A four-module online training program was developed. Two modules were aimed to bridge the knowledge gap on trauma for MHWs, so that they could effectively address the associated symptoms of fear and grief. The other two modules aimed to support MHWs' self-care and create supportive connections among colleagues. In this mixed method evaluation study, needs expressed before the training and lessons derived from the training were collected through questionnaires, focus group discussion and interviews. Findings: Of the 3,168 MHWs who registered for the training, 534 completed the pre-questionnaire. Of the 125 post-questionnaire records, 38 had watched all four modules. A great need for learning to work with grief and manage the increased workload without burnout was observed. Post-training gains included skills for working with fear and grief, which increased the confidence of MHWs. The importance of self-care was an eye-opener for many. Social implications: This study indicates a way to equip MHWs to address the trauma that will continue to live in people in the aftermath of crises. Originality/value: This study examined the challenges MHWs in India faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing a knowledge gap on dealing with this level of trauma. It can contribute to the knowledge on how to support MHWs in such crises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Current study was conducted to assess the perception and barriers regarding proning among nurses. 385 nurses were conveniently surveyed using pre-tested tools. 3.9% of nurses "felt like running away" while providing care to the patients in prone position. 93.5% believed that prone position for COVID-19 patients is beneficial in reducing morbidity and that teamwork is required to be effective (96.6%). 93% nurses believed that inadequate staff-patient ratio is a significant barrier for prone positioning. Other barriers were fear of dislodgement of tubings (91.5%), difficulty in providing routine care (87.3%) and inadequate institutional protocol (83.9%). 12.5% were trained regarding proning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Fear of giving birth is the primary factor that has reduced the preference for natural birth. The sudden rise in the percentage of C-sections has harmed women's pregnancy and new-born health. Purpose: To evaluate the effectiveness of peanut ball exercise on reducing fear among primigravida mothers. Materials and Methods: Thirty participants were randomly assigned to experimental (peanut ball exercise, antenatal exercise, antenatal education) and conventional (Antenatal exercises) groups. The fear of childbirth questionnaire (FCQ) was used to evaluate the pre-test the same test used to determine post-treatment values after 12 weeks of the treatment. Results: A significant difference was observed between the experimental and control groups (P =0.0001). peanut ball exercise and antenatal education were effective in mothers with a fear of childbirth. Conclusion: Peanut ball training is effective in mothers with a fear of childbirth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: In Parkinson's disease (PD) patients fear of falling, independence in day-to-day activities, and functional balance are interconnected. These impairments can significantly limit functionality and lead to disability, increasing the risk of falling by 46%. Falls can result in severe injuries and reduced quality of life. Purpose: The main purpose of this study was to examine the effects of task-specific training on the functional balance and Activities of Daily Living (ADL) in individuals diagnosed with PD. Materials and Method: 10 patients of the both genders who had idiopathic PD ranged from Stage I to III on the Hoehn & Yahr (H&Y) scale. Participants received task specific training for three days a week on alternate days for 8 weeks. The Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) parts II, Berg Balance Scale (BBS), and Activities-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) Scale were used as outcome measures. The data was tabulated and analysed using sigma plot software. Results: The results showed significant improvement in functional balance on BBS from 45.60±2.36 to 50.40±1.95, ADL on UPDRS part II from 22.50±1.95 to 16.70±1.63, balance confident on ABC scale from 68.12±2.20 to 78.24±2.61 at the end of 8 weeks, with a p-value of < 0.01. Conclusion: The study concludes that the task specific training significantly improves functional balance, independence in ADL and reduces fear of fall among PD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Decision conflict usually occurs from poor patient involvement in decision making which may cause regrets about the options that were chosen. Health professionals should impart antenatal education to enhance a mother's belief about her birthing. Objective: To assess the effect of supportive educational intervention on decision conflict among primipara mothers with a fear of childbirth (FOC). Methods: An randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted on 205 primipara mothers with an FOC attending Gynae OPD. At 24–28 weeks of pregnancy, mothers were screened for FOC WDEQ-A and then randomly allocated to the experimental (103) and control group (102) and assessed for decision conflict by using a decisional conflict scale. The experimental group was given Supportive educational intervention. At 37–38 weeks of pregnancy, both groups were again assessed for decision conflict. Three participants from the experimental and two from the control group were lost to follow up and the final post-test was completed by 200 participants. Data analysis was done by calculating frequency, mean, standard deviation, Fisher Exact test, chi-square, t -test and F -test using SPSS version 18. Results: There was a significantly lower post-intervention decision conflict score in the experimental group as compared to the control group (p <.001). No difference was observed in the pre-test score in both groups. Conclusion: Supportive educational intervention was effective in primipara mothers for reducing decision conflict. Improving antenatal emotional well-being will lead to a positive childbirth experience with better perinatal outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: India has 2.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV). The objective of this study was to ascertain the extent of anti‑retroviral therapy (ART) adherence and reasons for nonadherence among PLHIV in India. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta‑analysis using the following criteria: (1) Observational or experimental studies conducted in India and (2) English language studies. Published during January 2012–June 2018 with data collection during the same period (3). 95% ART adherence rate (primary outcome). We reviewed bibliographic databases (PubMed, Scopus) and extracted relevant data. The forest plot was used to display the meta‑analysis results. Analyses were performed in Stata 14 using the “Metaprop_one” function. Results: A total of 511 records were identified after removing duplicates, 59 full‑texts were screened of which 15 studies were included in the meta‑analysis. Only one study was conducted in rural India, with <95% adherence reported by all its participants. The PLHIV reported several reasons for their ART nonadherence including forgetfulness (8/15), running out of pills (3/15), distance from the health center and associated travel (2/15), alcohol abuse (3/15), concealment of HIV status from family (2/15, felt stigma (2/15), depressive symptoms (2/15), and fear of side‑effects (2/15). The overall pooled estimate of ART adherence was 54.1% (95% confidence interval [CI] 27%–81%), while among facility‑based studies, the ≥95% adherence rate was significant higher. 62% (95% CI 46%–0.78%). Conclusions: Despite the universal provision of free of cost ART to all PLHIV in government health facilities in India, suboptimal adherence to treatment persists in nearly half of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Choosing the appropriate medical specialty as a career is one of the greatest responsibilities of a medical student. This has become a greater challenge in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to find out whether the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the career perceptions of medical students and interns and to find out the factors influencing them. Materials and Methods: This facility-based cross-sectional study was done among medical undergraduate students and interns aged ≥18 years at a private institution. Data were collected using a semi‑structured Google Form. Participants were asked to select the first, second, and third preferences of their specialties of interest before and after the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: The most preferred specialty among participants after surgery and medicine was obstetrics and gynecology before and anatomy after the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. Around 158 (35.2%) participants strongly agreed/agreed that the COVID-19 pandemic had affected their career choices. This was much more significant in participants who were aged ≥23 years, those not planning to go abroad for further studies or employment, local residents, and those currently studying their final year of MBBS. As many as 257 (57.3%) participants strongly disagreed/disagreed that the current online academic training was sufficient to pursue their desired career. Conclusion: Measures need to be taken to enhance the effectiveness of online teaching methods. Career-related counseling services are essential for medical students in the postpandemic era. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic had affected negatively the mental well-being of nursing students. However, limited research is currently available that explored mental health issues of nursing students. Aim: To investigate the impact of resilience on stress, anxiety, and fear of COVID-19 among the nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional research design was adopted for this study. A total of 268 nursing students from three universities in South India. responded to an Online survey. Data was collected using selfreported questionnaires in June 2021. Results: The findings revealed that most of the students had a normal level of resilience (3.06 ± 0.39) and low levels of stress (17.885 ± 0.09). The mean scores on fear of COVID-19 (18.31 ± 5.68) and COVID-19 Anxiety Syndrome Scale (C-19ASS) (21.67 ± 7.42) suggest that around half of the participants had a high level of fear and anxiety. The resilience of the participants was negatively correlated with fear (r = -260, p < .001) and perceived stress (r = -0.307, p < .001). Similarly, fear was positively correlated with anxiety (r = 0.211, p < .001) and perceived stress (r = 0.418, p < .001). Conclusion: Our findings showed that nearly 50% of the nursing students had a high level of COVID-19 associated fear and anxiety. Therefore, we suggest that innovative strategies are needed to improve students' resilience and mental health during highly stressful situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, many countries have tightened the rules against harassment in the workplace and violence in the home. On the other hand, incidences of sexual harassment against women in public places have not been paid sufficient attention. Developing countries like India have recorded an increase in sexual harassment cases in public places due to the increase in participation of women in activities outside the home such as education and employment. In India, the term "Eve-teasing" is a euphemism for sexual harassment in public places. Eve-teasing is identified as a significant problem in the patriarchal society of India that carries dreadful implications for women. Daily encounters with sexual harassment leads to a decline in their career, socio-economic, and political opportunities. In recent years, these misdeeds have been spread to every corner of our society and have become a national problem. Eve-teasing is not considered atrocious, so strong laws have not been enacted to counteract it. This study has been conducted to identify the socio-psychological repercussions of Eve-teasing on young women cadets of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) aged between 19 and 24 years. Moreover, the significance of NCC in empowering the women cadets in dealing with daily harassment is also the focus of the investigation. Particularly, a structural feminist approach is adopted to offer a critical framework to examine the patriarchal socialization of men and women as the most common cause of Eve-teasing. A total of 262 women participated in this study. The data were collected at the national camp of NCC held in New Delhi through a semi-structured questionnaire and focus group discussions from January 18-29 of 2020. Out of the total respondents, 83.20% were exposed to Eve-teasing in their lives, while 15.26% of them did not disclose public harassment. The study concludes by highlighting the negative implications of Eve-teasing on the life of young women. The respondents were the cadets of the National Cadet Corps (NCC) which helped them to shape self-confidence to fight against such sexual harassment acts; therefore, it is suggested to the governments (state and central) to emphasize the involvement of the agencies having similar goals as NCC in empowering young women and girls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Muslims' education in British India is treated in the literature as something encompassing resistance, reaction, and hence emancipation from putatively exploitative British policies. This article focuses on the patterns of Muslims' emergent knowledge traditions in British India in response to the British government's involvement in the educational matters of the Indian subcontinent. Data findings reveal that Indian Muslims' responses to the growing trend towards 'modern' education in the Indian subcontinent evolved gradually through discursive interactions leading to divergent reformist tendencies in favour of or against adopting Western education. The British government's decision to make 'special' arrangements for Muslims' educational uplift had left legacies of mutual admiration, fear, and sometimes resentment between Muslims and the British government in the subcontinent. Amid ambivalent relations between the British and Muslims, it was not difficult to find apt illustrations of what Francis Robinson calls a 'cheek by jowl' relationship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: During the unexpected lockdown implemented in early 2020 in reaction to the coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, a considerable section of India's population of migrant construction-site workers were stuck. OBJECTIVE: Our objective was to explore the lived experiences and consequent perceptions of migrant workers related to the COVID-19 lockdown and the consequences on their lives. METHODS: We conducted structured in-depth interviews (IDIs) with twelve migrant construction-site workers in Bhavnagar, Western India, from November to December 2020, using qualitative research methods. All IDIs were conducted with participant's consent, audio-recorded, transcribed in English, inductively coded, and thematically analyzed. RESULTS: The primary financial challenges mentioned by the migrant workers in the interviews were unemployment, monetary issues, and a difficult sustenance. The social concerns were described as anxious migrant exodus, discrimination, mistreatment, lack of social assistance, inability to fulfil their family's expectations, lack of safe transportation arrangements by the authorities during the exodus, inadequacies in the public distribution system, law and order, and apathy of their employers. The psychological repercussions were described using terms like "fear," "worry," "loneliness," "boredom," "helplessness," and "trapped." Monetary compensation, job opportunities at the native place, and a well-managed migrant exodus were reportedly their key expectations from the government. Healthcare issues mentioned during the lockdown included a lack of facilities to treat common ailments, substandard care, and repeated COVID-19 testing prior to departure. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the need to have rehabilitation mechanisms such as targeted cash transfers, ration kits, and safe transportation services for migrant workers through inter-sectoral coordination for mitigating hardship. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The pandemic has placed considerable strain on health systems, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), leading to reductions in the availability of routine health services. Emerging evidence suggests that people with disabilities have encountered marked challenges in accessing healthcare services and supports in the context of the pandemic. Further research is needed to explore specific barriers to accessing healthcare during the pandemic, and any strategies that promoted continued access to health services in LMICs where the vast majority of people with disabilities live. Methods: Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with persons with disabilities in Ghana, Zimbabwe, Viet Nam, Türkiye (Syrian refugees), Bangladesh, and India as part of a larger project exploring the experiences of people with disabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic and their inclusion in government response activities. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: This research found that people with disabilities in six countries - representing a diverse geographic spread, with different health systems and COVID-19 responses - all experienced additional difficulties accessing healthcare during the pandemic. Key barriers to accessing healthcare during the pandemic included changes in availability of services due to systems restructuring, difficulty affording care due to the economic impacts of the pandemic, fear of contracting coronavirus, and a lack of human support to enable care-seeking. Conclusion: These barriers ultimately led to decreased utilisation of services which, in turn, negatively impacted their health and wellbeing. However, we also found that certain factors, including active and engaged Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) played a role in reducing some of the impact of pandemic-related healthcare access barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

COVID-19 has become a global pandemic. Throughout most of the pandemic, mitigating its spread has relied on human behavior, namely on adherence to protective behaviors (e.g., wearing a face mask). This research proposes that Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) can contribute to understanding differences in individual adherence to COVID-19 behavioral guidelines. PMT identifies four fundamental cognitive components that drive responses to fear appeals: perceptions of susceptibility (to the disease), severity (of the disease), self-efficacy (to protect oneself), and response efficacy (i.e., recommended behaviors' effectiveness). Two online self-report studies assessed PMT components' capacity to predict adherence to protective behaviors concurrently and across culturally different countries (Israel, Germany, India; Study 1), and again at six-week follow-up (Israeli participants; Study 2). Study 1's findings indicate excellent fit of the PMT model, with about half of the variance in adherence explained. No significant differences were found between participants from Israel (n = 917), Germany (n = 222) and India (n = 160). Study 2 (n = 711) confirmed that PMT components continue to predict adherence after six weeks. In both studies, response efficacy was the PMT component most strongly associated with adherence levels. This study demonstrates that PMT can serve as a theoretical framework to better understand differences in adherence to COVID-19 protective behaviors. The findings may further inform the design of adherence-promoting communications, suggesting that it may be beneficial to highlight response efficacy in such messages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The birth of a baby through the vaginal route is a traditional way of delivery. But, at times normal vaginal delivery is not desirable due to various reasons. Under such circumstances, Lower section caesarean section (LSCS) is carried out to deliver the baby safely. There are rising concerns about the increasing rate of caesarean sections with wide variations in rates across the globe. Factors that influence the decision to perform a LSCS are often complex and multifactorial. Understanding these complexities is one of many steps to help stop the rise of any unnecessary LSCSs or prevent their overuse. Aim: To find out factors influencing the choice of caesarean delivery among recently delivered mothers through caesarean section and within puerperium. Method: A cross-sectional survey using pretested, self-administered, semistructured questionnaire was done between December 2022 to February 2023 among patients recently delivered through caesarean section and within puerperium. Result: A total of 250 participants were approached over a three-month period. Among them, 211 completed the survey. The majority of participants were in the age group 25 to 30 years, Hindu by religion, and residents of rural areas. Sixty-four participants perceived that LSCS was done for the safety of the baby. Educational status (p<0.001), place of previous delivery (p<0.001), and count of current LSCS (p=0.016) were the factors associated with caesarean delivery satisfaction and it was found to be statistically significant. Conclusion: About one-third of the participants perceived that LSCS was done for the safety of the baby. The majority of participants were satisfied with the decision of LSCS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background- Healthcare providers serve as the backbone of the healthcare delivery system, and motivating them is crucial for its enhancement, which is often a challenging task. Understanding the motivational factors that keep employees engaged is a pressing concern for leaders and senior personnel. Aims & Objectives: This study aimed to assess the motivation levels of healthcare personnel working in a tertiary healthcare institution in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It sought to explore the various factors influencing employee motivation in the healthcare sector. Methodology: A cross-sectional study involved 150 healthcare personnel, and data analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) software and Microsoft Excel. Frequency percentages and mean standard deviations were used for categorical and continuous data, respectively. The Chi-Square test and Fischer Exact test were employed to assess relationships between categorical variables. Results: Among the study groups, technicians displayed the highest motivation levels, while doctors exhibited lower motivational indices. Across doctors, nurses, and technicians, "rewards" ranked as the top motivating factor. Health personnel identified monetary support, incentives, promotion, resource improvement, appreciation, feedback, communication, job security, training, teamwork, and effective management as significant motivational factors. Conclusion: Satisfied healthcare workers not only inspire their colleagues but also foster a positive work environment, enhancing the overall functioning of the institution. Employee motivation directly impacts the performance of healthcare organizations. Recognizing non-financial motivators, such as appreciation, teamwork, professional growth, and training, alongside financial incentives, is essential to maintaining a motivated and efficient healthcare workforce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: We conducted this study to understand the proportion of deaths that occurred at home and the factors associated with home deaths in a tribal rural area of Gujarat, India. Materials and Methods: We collected a list of all deaths that occurred during the study period from local authorities and triangulated the data. Data collectors (DCs) visited the houses of the deceased person and interviewed the relatives as well as local health-care providers. The DCs categorized each death as COVID-19 or non-COVID-19 death based on the World Health Organization standard definition. For each COVID-19 death, we filled pretested questionnaire (local language) to know the care-seeking behavior of deceased persons. Subsequently, we conducted in-depth interviews of relatives whose family members died of COVID-19 at home (or within 48 hr of admission to a health-care facility) to find reasons for not seeking care at a health-care facility. Results: The risk of home deaths was high among the scheduled tribe population, laborers, below poverty line cardholders, those who did not seek care from private practitioners, those who did not test for COVID-19, those who did not seek care from qualified care providers, and those seeking care to nonqualified care providers. Shortage of health-care facilities, cost of care, and stigma/fear of hospitals were the major factors associated with the care-seeking behavior of patients. Conclusion: The unavailability of critical care, testing facilities, lack of knowledge, high cost of care, and lack of trust in hospitals were the major causes of home deaths among COVID-19 patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Perinatal period is considered a high risk period for developing mental health problems. Screening for mental health problems is not routine in obstetric care settings in low and middle income countries. This qualitative study among low-income urban pregnant women in India aimed to understand the facilitators and barriers for discussing mental health problems with their obstetric health-care providers. Materials and Methods: Two focus group discussions with six pregnant women in each group were conducted using a semi structured interview guide. The transcribed data were translated to English and were analyzed and key themes were identified using a thematic analysis approach. Results: Participants had inadequate knowledge about the impact of maternal mental health problems on pregnancy, fetus and infant. The common barriers to discussing mental health problems were families normalizing mental stress, fear that family conflicts being revealed, stigma about being labeled mentally ill, lack of privacy in clinics and obstetric health-care providers being too busy. Women reported that being specifically asked about mental health problems as part of care and a sensitive attitude of the health-care providers encouraged them to discuss their concerns. Conclusion: This study identified more barriers than facilitators in discussing about mental health among pregnant women and the need for sensitive screening for mental health problems. To enhance screening and support for maternal mental health problems, it is necessary to increase awareness about the importance of mental health in the perinatal period among women and families. In addition, training obstetric health-care providers in sensitive screening for mental health problems, ensuring privacy in clinics and reducing stigma related to perinatal mental health problems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: The low acceptance rate of the vaccine in rural India has been acting as a hurdle to achieving herd immunity against multiple active variants of coronavirus. A large section of the rural population is prone to COVID-19 infection due to their negative perception of vaccination and their inability to access it. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate acceptance rate of the vaccine along with the major factors determining the non-receptivity of the COVID-19 vaccine among rural people. Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in rural Rajasthan from August to November 2021. Out of 138 participants, 110 rural adults from different villages who were not yet vaccinated were interviewed using a semi-structured schedule. The characteristics of participants and factors determining COVID-19 vaccination hesitancy were assessed using MS Excel 2021 and STATA 13.1. Results: The side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine were the major reason for hesitancy among respondents (71%). Many respondents (51%) reported that the vaccine portal was not user-friendly and not working properly; in addition, the volatility of the network makes slot booking more difficult. Due to the shortage of vaccines and the absence or low numbers of medical staff, some respondents (>40%) attributed the inefficacy of health care centers as a cause for not getting vaccinated. Fifty-three percentage of respondents rejected the vaccine due to political orientation, and ~40% believed that the vaccine was being tested first on poor rural people. Lack of awareness and ignorance led to half of the population postponing it. Thirty-five percentage of them argued that the vaccine does not cure COVID-19, and 37% feared that the vaccine could lead to death. Many women (56%) were dependent on men or elders for access to health care centers and considered it necessary for men only. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the major hurdles to ensuring the equitable coverage of vaccination in rural India, which reflect the urgent need for awareness campaigns and door-to-door vaccination to prevent community transmission among the rural population of India. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Today, psychological morbidities such as depression, anxiety and stress are most common psychiatric health issues worldwide. Stress in medical education especially among the undergraduate students has become a global phenomenon nowadays. According to WHO, depression is the most common mental disorder, characterised by sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, feelings of guilt or low self-worth, low energy and poor concentration and disturbance in sleep or appetite, Anxiety disorders are characterised by excessive fear and worry and related behavioural disturbances and stress is defined as a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation. This study is important to identify the risk factors of depression, anxiety and stress among the undergraduate physiotherapy students, as it affects their health as well as their academic achievements. The aim and objective of this study is to assess depression, anxiety and stress among the undergraduate physiotherapy students by using DASS-21 scale. Methods: This is an observational study was conducted in a Physiotherapy College in Maharashtra. The total duration of this study was 6 months from October 2022 to March 2023. Data was collected from 43 undergraduate physiotherapy students from first year to fourth year by using a DASS-21 questionnaire. Conclusion: Psychological illness in the form of depression, anxiety and stress have been reported in substantial proportion of undergraduate. Depression has been reported in 76.74% of students, while anxiety and stress were found in 86.05% and 83.72% respectively. Organized interventions should be initiated to prevent excessive psychological illness among undergraduate physiotherapy students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome characterized by progressive and generalized loss of muscle mass and function. Sarcopenia constitutes a major health problem affecting millions of older adults around the world specially in countries like India where older population is too large. In India, one of the developing county there are none of the studies investigating the association of Sarcopenia with physical performance and Quality of Life where there is substantial growth in the aging population. Our study aims to explore association of Sarcopenia with physical performance and quality of life in older adults. Method: It is an observational study. A sample size of 280 older adults of aged 60 or 60+year were taken from old age homes. Convenient sampling method was used. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using SARC-CalF and jamar handheld dynamometer using Asian working group of sarcopenia criteria. Physical performance was measured using short physical performance battery and quality of life were assessed using SarQoL questionnaire. Result: 200 older adults were diagnosed with sarcopenia, their physical performance and quality of life were assessed, results of which suggested that 86% of older adults diagnosed with sarcopenia has a poor physical performance and quality of life overall score (mean) of SarQoL was 56.05, among the domains, Leisure activities had the lowest quality of life scores and fears were the highest. When analysed for a correlation between SARCCALF and SPPB and SARC-CALF and SARQOL overall score, the results of which demonstrate that there was no correlation between them. Conclusion: Results of the study provide evidence that older adults with Sarcopenia are likely to have poor physical performance and their quality of life is compromised. Study showed that there is no correlation of Sarcopenia with physical performance and quality of life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Chronic low back pain is a common musculoskeletal condition in the community. According to fear-avoidance beliefs model, the anticipation of increased pain or reinjury further evokes the avoidance behavior causing disability. Aim: The study aimed to correlate fear-avoidance beliefs with dynamic balance, functional performance, and disability in chronic low back pain patients. Settings and Design: A cross-sectional study was conducted in 75 chronic low back pain patients in a tertiary care hospital. Subjects and Methods: Pain, fear-avoidance beliefs, dynamic balance, and disability were assessed in chronic low back pain patients. Pain was evaluated using the numerical pain rating scale, fear avoidance using the fear-avoidance belief questionnaire (FABQ), disability using the Roland–Morris disability questionnaire, dynamic balance using the MiniBest test, and functional performance using the Back Performance Scale. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical measures such as median and interquartile ranges were calculated. The Spearman's correlation test was used. Results: There was a low correlation between FABQ and pain (r = 0.431, P = 0.000), dynamic balance (r = −0.425, P = 0.000), and functional performance (r = 0.482, P = 0.000) and moderate positive correlation with disability (rs = 0.538, P = 0.000) in chronic low back pain patients. Conclusions: Fear-avoidance beliefs are significantly associated with pain, dynamic balance, functional performance, and disability in chronic low back pain patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Maternal and child health (MCH) care is one of the essential routine healthcare services, which got affected during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Modeled projections had anticipated an 8.3%-38.6% rise in maternal mortality from different countries globally. In view of limited studies pertaining to issues related to accessing MCH services in the event of a pandemic, this study was carried out on pregnant and postnatal mothers in Odisha, India. Methods: An explorative qualitative study through 36 in-depth interviews (IDIs) was conducted among 16 (44.4%) antenatal and 20 (55.5%) postnatal mothers in six of thirty districts of Odisha, India, from February to April 2021. The districts and blocks were randomly selected for better representativeness. The IDIs were conducted using a predesigned and pretested guide among mothers who had undergone delivery or availed of antenatal, postnatal, or child health services from October 2020 to April 2021. The IDIs were conducted till data saturation. The data were analyzed using MAXQDA software. Results: The average age of mothers was 27.6 (+/- 2.2) years. Among the participants, 16 (44.4%) were antenatal and 20 (55.6%) were postnatal mothers; 19 (52.8%) were primipara and 17 (47.2%) were multipara. The majority explained that they received enormous support including door-to-door services from the community health workers (CHWs) even during the difficult times of the pandemic. Reduced transportation facility and fear of contracting the infection were reasons behind the unwillingness to visit health facilities and preference for home delivery. Furthermore, the pandemic had physical, mental, social, and financial impacts among pregnant and postnatal women. Conclusion: The unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic has affected access to MCH services by antenatal and postnatal mothers. Health system preparedness and appropriate strategies including better community engagement and participation could avert such challenges in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Appropriate implementation of a ventilator bundle (VB) is the key step in the prevention of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). However, knowledge and compliance of critical care staff for VB are inconsistent in developing countries. This cross-sectional survey was planned to evaluate critical care practitioners' knowledge of, adherence to, and barriers toward implementation of VB in the ICUs of a tertiary care institute. Methodology: All registered nurses and resident doctors who are direct care providers to patients of the ICU were included. Two sets of questionnaires were given to access knowledge and to identify potential barriers in the implementation of VB. To determine compliance with the VB, direct observation was done for three nonconsecutive days, and mean compliance per component of the bundle and overall compliance to VB was determined. Data were analyzed using descriptive and analytic statistics. Results: Of these 75 participants, 43 (57.33%) were resident doctors and 32 (42.67%) were staff nurses. The median knowledge score of resident doctors and staff nurses for VB was 7 (range 3--10) and 6 (range 2--9), respectively, with an overall score of 7 (range 2--10). Self-reported adherence to individual components of VB ranged from 75% to 95%, among these, adherence to oral care protocol, including use of chlorhexidine oral rinse, was most, and adherence to DVT prophylaxis was least. The most common potential barriers identified were fear of potential adverse effects and unawareness of guidelines. Conclusion: Considerable gap is observed between knowledge and implementation of VB among critical care practitioners. Despite knowledge, fear of adverse events and lack of proper training are key barriers in implementation of VB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to address gaps in understanding of the lived experiences of caregivers of persons with mental illness in low-income countries. It was conducted among caregivers of persons with mental illness making use of a free non-governmental clinic in and around Chennai, India. The study adopted a qualitative methodology, with semi-structured interviews and life history exercises (n = 29) and six focus group discussions with caregivers (n = 21) and mental health professionals and community-based workers (n = 39). The experiences of caregivers were analyzed in the framework of "The Banyan model of caregiving," which identifies six phases. Major themes in caregivers' experience were: embarrassment and losing honor; fear; awareness; stigma and social exclusion; and reduced social interaction and loneliness. Posttraumatic growth considered as the result of caregiver experiences was found to consist mainly of personal growth and focusing on positive life experiences. Lost opportunities particular to the context of Tamil Nadu were described as the inability to get married, obtaining less education than desired, and loss of employment. Siblings faced lower levels of burden, while elderly mothers experienced especially high levels of burden and lack of happiness in life. Caregiver gains were identified as greater compassion for other people with disabilities, resulting in a desire to help others, as well as increased personal strength and confidence. Understanding the nuances of the caregiving experiences over time can provide a framework to devise more fine-tuned support structures that aim to prevent reductions in social interaction and lost opportunities, and improve a sense of meaning, in order to assist caregivers to continue providing care for their relatives with mental illness in a context with scarce mental health resources. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pregnant Health Care Professionals (HCPs), who serve as front-line warriors of COVID-19 will invariably experience a stressful pregnancy period. Ensuring their well-being during this COVID-19 pandemic period is a big challenge and guidelines or standard operating procedures (SOP) for the same are non-existent or are scarce. Objectives: To explore the challenges and experiences of pregnant HCPs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted among 19 pregnant HCPs (14 Doctors and 5 staff nurses) working in Pondicherry, who were selected using purposive sampling for in-depth interviews. After obtaining informed written consent, face-to-face interviews were conducted until the attainment of the point of saturation. Audio recordings of the interviews were transcribed in English. Transcripts were proofread and manually analyzed for content. Codes obtained from the analysis of transcripts were merged to form broad categories. Results: The majority 15 (78.9%) of HCPs belonged to the clinical department and had work experience from 2--4 years. The mean age of the respondents was 29.4 ± 3.6 years. Four broad categories (of challenges), namely, Personnel level (Fear of infection in workplace, Inadequate antenatal care), Family level (Family pressure to quit job, Guilt of spreading the infection to family members), society level (Criticism by neighbor for working, Stigma), and work level challenges (Fear of losing the job, Uncomfortable work environment) emerged from the study. Conclusion and Recommendations: Challenges faced by the pregnant HCPs due to their nature of work remain by and large not addressed. Hence, specific guidelines or SOPs addressing these issues of pregnant health care workers and their swift and strict implementation are the need of the hour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]