Ethics of Human Resources Management in the Cameroonian Health System, Medical Nomadism and the Ineffectiveness of the Fight against High Blood Pressure

Context/objectives: The fight against Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) is a long-term undertaking, which requires available, motivated and well-managed human resources (HR). The administrative management of skills on both qualitative and quantitative levels is one of the essential functions of a health system. To better implement policies of fight against High Blood Pressure (HBP) and other chronic diseases, it is important to establish strategies to retain health personnel. This loyalty requires favorable working conditions and consideration of the contribution-reward couple. Good working conditions are likely to reduce the phenomenon of medical nomadism;conversely, poor HR management can contribute to their exodus towards exotic “green pastures”, thus leading to an additional crisis in the Cameroonian health system. The fight against HBP is a complex, multifaceted and multifactorial reality that requires appropriate management model for all types of resources mainly HR. The main objective of this research is to show the impact of poor management of human resources in Cameroon health system on medical nomadism and the ineffectiveness of the fight against High Blood Pressure. Method: A cross-sectional descriptive survey among five hundred (500) health facilities in the center region of Cameroon has been conducted. A stratified probabilistic technique has been used, and the number of health facilities to be surveyed has been determined using the “sample size estimation table” of Depelteau. The physical questionnaires have been printed and then distributed to data collectors. After data collection, the latter were grouped during processing in Excel sheets. The Chi-square test was used for data with a qualitative value and that of Kolmogorov-Sminorf for data with a quantitative value to assess the normality and reliability of data. The Crochach’s Alpha reliability test allowed us to have a summary of the means and variances and then to search for intragroup correlations between variables. Descriptive analysis was possible with the XLSTAT 2016 software. Results: 43.60% of Health Facilities (HF) managers were unqualified. 82.20% of HF managers have staff in a situation of professional insecurity. They are mainly contractual (49.00), decision-making agents (24.40%), casual agents (08.80). The proportion of unstable personnel is average of 22.00% and very unstable, 12.00%.

The Impact of Physiotherapy Interventions on the Elderly Population with Mental Health Conditions at Chainama Hills College Hospital in Zambia. A Pre-Post Single Sample Study Design

Background: Physical functional decline is common among elderly individuals with mental disorders, worsening their symptoms. Physiotherapy interventions have shown some evidence in improving physical function and mental health outcomes in this population. This study aimed to assess the impact of physiotherapy interventions on the elderly with mental health conditions at Chainama Hills College Hospital in Zambia. Methods: A pre-post single sample design was used to track patient progress over six weeks, with 10 physiotherapy sessions. The study population (N = 30) comprised of all elderly individuals with mental health conditions, encompassing both men and women, who were hospitalized during the research period. The Katz Index of Activities of Daily Living and the six-minute walk test were evaluated before and after the intervention. The IBM SPSS version 26 was used to analyze data and results were presented as mean ± SD with a 95% confidence interval. The variables were described in terms of their mean, SD, and range. A significance level of 0.05 was used for a paired T-test to detect changes and multiple logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with mental health. Results: Following the intervention, the percentage of participants achieving full function and independence increased significantly to 96.7% from the initial 73.3%, supported by a 95% CI = [0.82 - 0.99]. There was also a notable decrease in the proportion of individuals experiencing moderate impairment, dropping from 26.7% to just 3.3%, with a corresponding 95% CI = [0.00 - 0.17]. Conclusion: The findings derived from this study illustrate an enhancement in the aspects of participants’ overall health and functional condition, including blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate. Consequently, physiotherapy exercises can be employed as a tactic to ameliorate the functional status and physical well-being of older individuals afflicted with mental disorders in Zambia.

Nanomaterials-mediated lysosomal regulation:a robust protein-clearance approach for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer’s disease is a debilitating,progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive accumulation of abnormal proteins,including amyloid plaques and intracellular tau tangles,primarily within the brain.Lysosomes,crucial intracellular organelles responsible for protein degradation,play a key role in maintaining cellular homeostasis.Some studies have suggested a link between the dysregulation of the lysosomal system and pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases,including Alzheimer’s disease.Restoring the normal physiological function of lysosomes hold the potential to reduce the pathological burden and improve the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.Currently,the efficacy of drugs in treating Alzheimer’s disease is limited,with major challenges in drug delivery efficiency and targeting.Recently,nanomaterials have gained widespread use in Alzheimer’s disease drug research owing to their favorable physical and chemical properties.This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in using nanomaterials(polymeric nanomaterials,nanoemulsions,and carbon-based nanomaterials)to enhance lysosomal function in treating Alzheimer’s disease.This review also explores new concepts and potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer’s disease through the integration of nanomaterials and modulation of lysosomal function.In conclusion,this review emphasizes the potential of nanomaterials in modulating lysosomal function to improve the pathological features of Alzheimer’s disease.The application of nanotechnology to the development of Alzheimer’s disease drugs brings new ideas and approaches for future treatment of this disease.

Faculty of health sciences students’knowledge and attitudes toward coronavirus disease 2019 during the first wave of the pandemic:A cross-sectional survey

Objective:The study aimed to determine the faculty of the health sciences students’knowledge and attitudes regarding the coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19)pandemic.Materials and Methods:This cross-sectional survey was completed with 317 undergraduate students of one health sciences faculty in Turkey.The data were collected between March 1,2020,and March 15,2020,by face-to-face interviews using a questionnaire created by the researchers.Number,percentage,mean,standard deviation,and Pearson Chi-square test were used to evaluate the data.Results:In this study,a high proportion of students answered questions about COVID-19 correctly.About 55.8%of the students took partial precautions against COVID-19 to protect themselves against COVID-19 and“frequent washing of hands”was the most common precaution.We determined that the main reasons for not taking any precautions against COVID-19 were“low number of cases in Turkey”and“getting irritated by the mask.”About 98.4%of the participants were entirely/partially following the news on COVID-19,with social media being the most commonly used medium.Female students took more protective measures than male students.The 1st-year students had more positive thoughts about vaccination compared to those in the other classes.Conclusions:Although the knowledge of the students about COVID-19 was good in the first wave of the pandemic,more than half of the students stated that they partially complied with the protective measures.

Experiences of Early and Enhanced Clinical Exposure for Postgraduate Neonatal Nursing Students at the University of Zambia, School of Nursing Sciences: Lessons and Implications for the Future

Background and Objectives: Early and Enhanced Clinical Exposure immediately places postgraduate students in a clinical setting and incorporates continual hands-on instruction throughout their studies. It aims to motivate students by strengthening their academics, improving clinical and communication skills, and increasing their confidence. The underlying principles are to provide a clinical context and to ensure that the patient remains the centre of learning. The School of Nursing Sciences implemented this model in 2021 to produce hands-on Masters-level neonatal practitioners who can work in multidisciplinary clinical contexts. Therefore, this study explored the experiences of postgraduate nursing students on the Early and Enhanced Clinical Exposure model and draw implications for the future. Methods: A phenomenological study design was utilized at the University of Zambia, School of Nursing Sciences and comprised of eight Master of Science Neonatal Nursing students in their second year. Convenience sampling was used to select the study site and participants. Data was collected between 15th January 2023 and 31st January 2023 using an in-depth interview guide. Audio recording and notes were transcribed immediately after data collection. Data analysis was conducted using thematic analysis and codes and themes were constructed from the coded data. Ethical clearance and permission were sought before conducting the study. Results: Four major themes emerged from the study: identity and role confusion, challenging and hectic experiences, positive educational experiences, and personal and professional growth. These themes contributed to the promotion of evidence-based practice by helping students to assess, diagnose, and treat various conditions, as well as gain interest, experience, knowledge, and exposure. Conclusion: The model has a significant impact on motivation to learn, as evidenced by reported increased skill level with potential for use in clinical practice. It is recommended that it be implemented in all postgraduate programs for full-time students.

Intention of healthcare workers to accept COVID-19 vaccination and related factors:A systematic review and meta-analysis

Considering medical and economic burden of coronavirus disease 2019(COVID-19), a high COVID-19 vaccination coverage among healthcare workers(HCWs) is an urgent need. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the intention of HCWs to accept COVID-19 vaccination and to identify related factors. We searched Pub Med, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, Pro Quest, CINAHL and med Rxiv until July 14, 2021. The heterogeneity between results was very high;thus, we applied a random effects model to estimate pooled effects. We performed subgroup and meta-regression analysis to identify possible resources of heterogeneity. Twenty four studies, including 50 940 HCWs, met the inclusion criteria. The overall proportion of HCWs that intend to accept COVID-19 vaccination was 63.5%(95% confidence interval: 56.5%-70.2%) with a wide range among studies from 27.7% to 90.1%. The following factors were associated with increased HCWs’ willingness to get vaccinated against COVID-19: male gender, older age, white HCWs, physician profession, higher education level, comorbidity among HCWs, vaccination against flu during previous season, stronger vaccine confidence, positive attitude towards a COVID-19 vaccine, fear about COVID-19, individual perceived risk about COVID-19, and contact with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 patients. The reluctance of HCWs to vaccinate against COVID-19 could diminish the trust of individuals and trigger a ripple effect in the general public. Since vaccination is a complex behavior, understanding the way that HCWs take the decision to accept or refuse COVID-19 vaccination will give us the opportunity to develop the appropriate interventions to increase COVID-19 vaccination uptake.

Factors that affect the process of professional identity formation in public health nurses

Objective: The aim of this study was to elucidate the process of professional identity formation and the factors that affect the process in public health nurses (PHNs). Methods: We performed an inductive qualitative analysis based on semi-structured interviews and focus group interviews of 65 PHNs. Results: At years 1 - 5, PHNs did not have a professional self-identity. Therefore, it was important for them to recognize the significance of their own work. At years 6 - 10, PHNs acquired self-assurance as a practitioner through feedback from residents. It was important for them to have a better understanding, broader viewpoints and more affection for their own community. At years 11 - 20, PHNs felt ambivalent toward the challenges and heavy responsibilities based on the objective assessment of their jobs and roles. PHNs felt embarrassed by role changes when they became a manager or an expert. It was important for them to become aware of their new role through managerial education and training. However, some PHNs who were unable to establish a clear PHN identity experienced setbacks at each developmental stage. Conclusions: Our data suggest that a differential approach dependent on the stage and level of confidence in an individual’s PHN identity is required for the formation of PHN identity.

Handgrip strength and health outcomes: Umbrella review of systematic reviews with meta-analyses of observational studies

Purpose:The aim of the present study was to assess both the credibility and strength of evidence arising from systematic reviews with meta-analyses of observational studies on handgrip strength and health outcomes.Methods:An umbrella review of systematic reviews with meta-analyses of observational studies was conducted.We assessed meta-analyses of observational studies based on random-effect summary effect sizes and their p values,95%prediction intervals,heterogeneity,small-study effects,and excess significance.We graded the evidence from convincing(Class I)to weak(Class IV).Results:From 504 articles returned in a search of the literature,8 systematic reviews were included in our review,with a total of 11 outcomes.Overall,nine of the 11 of the outcomes reported nominally significant summary results(p<0.05),with 4 associations surviving the application of the more stringent p value(p<106).No outcome presented convincing evidence.Three associations showed Class II evidence(i.e.,highly suggestive):(1)higher handgrip values at baseline were associated with a minor reduction in mortality risk in the general population(n=34 studies;sample size=1,855,817;relative risk=0.72,95%confidence interval(95%CI):0.670.78),(2)cardiovascular death risk in mixed populations(n=15 studies;relative risk=0.84,95%CI:0.780.91),and(3)incidence of disability(n=7 studies;relative risk=0.76,95%CI:0.660.87).Conclusion:The present results show that handgrip strength is a useful indicator for general health status and specifically for early all-cause and cardiovascular mortality,as well as disability.To further inform intervention strategies,future research is now required to fully understand mechanisms linking handgrip strength scores to these health outcomes.

Effect of Biscuits and Muffins Added with Cornlettes Powder on the Glycemic Responses of Healthy Individuals

Dietary fibre content is a known factor that can affect the postprandial glycemic responses of a food and meal. Cornlettes vegetable which is rich in dietary fibre has been studied for its potential in lowering the peak glycemic responses of biscuits and muffins. Cornlettes was processed into powder and formulated into four formulations of selected bakery products. The glycemic responses produced by portions of the biscuits and muffins containing 25 g available carbohydrate were measured in 11 healthy volunteers. The incremental area under curve (AUC) of control biscuits was greater (81 ± 11 mmol × min/l) than cornlettes powder (CP) added biscuit (63 ± 12 mmol × min/l). Likewise, the AUC of control muffins was higher (88 ± 13 mmol × min/l) than CP-added muffins (74 ± 12 mmol × min/l). Control biscuits had an intermediate GI value of 61 while CP-added biscuits had a low GI value of 46. Both control and CP-added muffins recorded intermediate GI values (58 and 57, respectively). It is concluded that CP can be incorporated in selected bakery products as a potential ingredient to help lower the peak rise of postprandial glycemic responses.

Nursing Activities at Health Surveys and Health Checkups during the Early Period of Operation of the Hiroshima ABCC—Oral History Study Based on Narratives of Three Japanese Nurses

Using an oral history approach, this study analyzed the narratives obtained from semi-structured interviews administered to three Japanese women who worked as nurses for the Hiroshima Atomic Bomb Casualty Commission (ABCC). The analysis of the data in the narratives showed details of the health surveys and health checkups conducted during the early period of operation of ABCC. During the early period of operation of ABCC some survivors showed negative behaviors toward the health surveys and health checkups at the ABCC. However, it can be inferred that dedicated nursing played an important role in alleviating the stress and emotional issues of survivors at the health surveys and health checkups. The findings of the study could be beneficial to research into nursing activities for patients exposed to radiation at the present day.

Development of Mental Health Literacy Scale for Depression Affecting the Help-Seeking Process in Health Professional Students

Despite depression being a global mental health disorder,many people with depression do not seek psychiatric help.In particular,it has been reported that only 15.7%of medical students seek treatment.A longer duration of untreated illness(DUI)leads to clinically poor results.To shorten the DUI,the mental health literacy(MHL)with regard to depression needs to be improved,although it is unclear which MHL components will improve the help-seeking process.Additionally,the existing MHL scale for depression is poorly validated for structural validity.Therefore,the purpose of this study was to develop an MHL scale for depression with verified reliability and validity(particularly structural validity)and verify its relationship with the help-seeking process.For this purpose,we adapted the mixed research method.First,we conducted a systematic literature review on MHL scales for depression to prepare a draft scale with content validity.Second,we conducted semi-structured interviews on MHL with outpatients with depression.Consequently,78 questions on MHL for depression were extracted.Third,to develop our scale,we verified the reliability and validity of these questions with 782 health professional students.The sample size was 780 and data collection was performed by collective survey method.It was conducted in 2018 in Japan.To verify the factor structure,exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted.We also examined the internal consistency,test-retest reliability,and criterion-related validity.The exploratory factor analysis revealed a three-factor structure(recognition of depression symptoms,helpseeking preferences,and depression onset possibility)with 10 items.According to the confirmatory factor analysis results,the goodness of fit indicators had a good fit.The internal consistency,test-retest reliability,and criterion-related validity had good values.Fourth,the relationship between the MHL of depression and other factors affecting the help-seeking process was examined using structural equation modelling.The same sample size(as above)was applied.All three components of the MHL of depression influenced‘recognition of depression’.In particular,depression onset possibility had the greatest impact on the help-seeking process.Whereas,the MHL of depression had little or no influence on‘intention of consultation’and‘psychiatric consultation’(second and third steps of help-seeking).The largest influence on psychiatric consultation was the recommendation of consultation from others.The multiple correlation coefficients were the recognition of depression,R2=0.33;intention of consultation,R2=0.43;and psychiatric consultation,R2=0.36;and the model was a good fit.This study identified the specific components of the depression MHL that influence the help-seeking process.Subsequently,it is necessary to provide specific MHL education to health professional students,their families,university staff,and teachers.

Comparison of Gluteal Muscle Intramuscular Injection Sites of Japanese Healthy Subjects: Considerations for Optimal Insertion of Injection Needle Length

Long Acting Injectable (LAI) medications for patients with schizophrenia is commonly administered to relieve their symptoms. Through shared decision-making and clinical evidence-based, psychiatrists should systematically offer LAIs to all patients requiring long-term antipsychotic treatment as a first-line treatment. Gluteal intramuscular (IM) injection requires accurate insertion of needles into the specific muscle area, often the outer upper quadrant of the buttocks, in order to achieve the required blood concentration. The purposes of this study were to compare the “Distance from the Epidermis to the Under-Fascia (DEUF)” and “Distance from the Epidermis to the Iliac Bone (DEB)” of the buttocks IM injection sites at the dorsogluteal and ventrogluteal sites among healthy Japanese volunteer subjects, and to identify the optimal insertion injection needle length. The DEUF and DEB at the gluteal regions were measured by ultrasonography. Welch’s one-way analysis of variance was used to compare the DEUF and the DEB at the gluteal IM injection regions. There was no statistically significant difference observed between the right and left mean values of DEUF for Hochstetter and Clark’s point at the ventrogluteal sites, and the Four and Three-way split or Double Cross point at the dorsogluteal sites. However in the DEB, the Hochstetter’s point (P < 0.01) at ventrogluteal site on the right side, and Clark’s point (P < 0.05) were significantly shorter than the Double Cross point at dorsogluteal sites (F = 4.38). The left buttocks Hochstetter’s point was significantly shorter than the Double Cross point (F = 4.38, P < 0.01). These results, however, did not establish a statistically significant difference in the DEUF among injection sites. It was considered that the difference in the DEB depended on muscle volume and thickness in the gluteal injection sites.

RFID Systems in Healthcare Settings and Activity of Daily Living in Smart Homes: A Review

Elderly inhabitants have a strong influence to healthcare facilities globally in the last few years as a result of the high demand on the healthcare services and the gap between the services provided by caregivers and the increasing number of older people. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technologies have been increasingly adopted in smart homes and used widely for indoor localisation. These technologies have been benefiting to healthcare domain where they improve the quality of services delivering by healthcare providers. This article presents a comprehensive review on RFID systems and healthcare research works in smart homes. We also compare RFID-based solutions in healthcare and distinguish challenges of smart home technologies in indoor environment. We also discuss research challenges related to Activity in Daily Living (ADL) in smart homes for wellbeing.

Cyanidin-3-glucoside protects the photooxidative damage of retinal pigment epithelium cells by regulating sphingolipid signaling and inhibiting MAPK pathway

Cyanidin-3-glucoside(C3G)is the most common anthocyanin in dark grains and berries and is a food functional factor to improve visual health.However,the mechanisms of C3G on blue light-induced retinal pigment epithelial(RPE)cell photooxidative damage needs further exploration.We investigated the effects of C3G on blue light-irradiated A2E-containing RPE cells and explored whether sphingolipid,mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK),and mitochondria-mediated pathways are involved in this mechanism.Blue light irradiation led to mitochondria and lysosome damage in RPE cells,whereas C3G preserved mitochondrial morphology and function and maintained the lysosomal integrity.C3G suppressed the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 MAPK and mitochondria-mediated pathways to inhibit RPE cell apoptosis.Lipidomics data showed that C3G protected RPE cells against blue light-induced lipid peroxidation and apoptosis by maintaining sphingolipids balance.C3G significantly inhibited ceramide(Cer d18:0/15:0,Cer d18:0/16:0 and Cer d18:0/18:0)accumulation and elevated galactosylceramide(GalCer d18:1/15:0 and GalCer d18:1/16:0)levels in the irradiated A2E-containing RPE cells.Furthermore,C3G attenuated cell membrane damage by increasing phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine levels.C3G inhibited apoptosis and preserved the structure of mitochondria and lysosome by regulating sphingolipid signaling and suppression of MAPK activation in RPE cells.Thus,dietary supplementation of C3G prevents retinal photooxidative damage.

Role of CD36 in central nervous system diseases

CD36 is a highly glycosylated integral membrane protein that belongs to the scavenger receptor class B family and regulates the pathological progress of metabolic diseases.CD36 was recently found to be widely expressed in various cell types in the nervous system,including endothelial cells,pericytes,astrocytes,and microglia.CD36 mediates a number of regulatory processes,such as endothelial dysfunction,oxidative stress,mitochondrial dysfunction,and inflammatory responses,which are involved in many central nervous system diseases,such as stroke,Alzheimer’s disease,Parkinson’s disease,and spinal cord injury.CD36 antagonists can suppress CD36 expression or prevent CD36 binding to its ligand,thereby achieving inhibition of CD36-mediated pathways or functions.Here,we reviewed the mechanisms of action of CD36 antagonists,such as Salvianolic acid B,tanshinone IIA,curcumin,sulfosuccinimidyl oleate,antioxidants,and small-molecule compounds.Moreover,we predicted the structures of binding sites between CD36 and antagonists.These sites can provide targets for more efficient and safer CD36 antagonists for the treatment of central nervous system diseases.

Clinico-epidemiological factors of health related quality of life among people with type 2 diabetes

AIM To investigate the quality of life(QOL) and its clinical and epidemiological correlates among people with type 2 diabetes.METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted in Tabriz, Northwest of Iran, including a total of 394 people with type 2 diabetes using convenient sampling method from November 2014 to March 2015. General information including demographic, socioeconomic status and lifestyle factors were collected by trained interviewers. Clinical information was retrieved from clinic's record and QOL was assessed using the 26-item WHOQOL-BRIFE questionnaire. Univariate and multivariate linear regression were performed to assess the related factors and QOL dimensions. RESULTS The mean of overall health related QOL was 52.11 ± 11.53 and the maximum and minimum dimensions wererespectively seen in psychological(60.38 ± 14.54) and social(38.32 ± 16.94) dimensions. The results of multiple linear regression showed a significant overall relationship between HRQOL and age(b =-1.48%, 95%CI:-0.03 and-2.93) level of education(b = 4.12%, 95%CI: 2.73 and 5.5), number of comorbidities(b =-2.41%, 95%CI:-3.89 and-9.41), and level of income(b = 1.98, 95%CI: 0.05 and 3.9), functional limitation(b =-3.59, 95%CI:-2.26 and-4.92) and psychological distress(b =-2.02%, 95%CI:-2.83 and-1.21). Level of education, functional limitation, psychological distress were associated with the score of physical, mental and environmental dimensions, and number of comorbidities was associated with the score of physical and mental dimensions. CONCLUSION Based on our findings, lifestyle modification and increasing facilities of clinics providing service can be effective steps to improve the QOL among people with type 2 diabetes.

Perception of Universal Healthcare among College Students, Faculty, and Staff at the University of Evansville

The U.S. is a country founded on freedoms protected by our constitution. A debate rages currently about whether healthcare is a human right. We conducted a survey at the University of Evansville regarding perceptions of Universal Healthcare among students, faculty, and staff in the College of Education and Health Sciences. Over ninety percent of those who responded agreed that healthcare was a human right. This indicates a strong need for better policy discussion that includes the voice of the everyday person.

Qualitative Study of Breastfeeding Support by Public Health Nurses in Japan

This study aimed to explore breastfeeding support by public health nurses (PHNs) working in Japanese municipalities in order to promote a breastfeeding-friendly environment. We interviewed 20 participants including five PHNs, four midwives, four doctors (one obstetrician and three pediatricians), and seven mothers who experienced breastfeeding between June and August 2010 and analyzed the data using content analysis. Collected data were classified into four categories including “collecting information”, “assessment”, “direct and individual support”, and “support for group and community” with 15 subcategories: infant’s condition, mother’s condition, mother-infant relationship, child rearing environment, mother’s state-of-mind, identifying necessary support, psychological support, concrete support, breastfeeding on demand, necessary information, advice to supporters, introducing services, breastfeeding-friendly environment, breastfeeding support groups and cooperation with relevant organization. This study suggested that the PHNs’ responsibilities for breastfeeding support should be extended beyond the currently understood scope of their duties. The study demonstrated that PNH needed to create a breastfeeding-friendly environment that included networking with breast care support organizations and peer groups and to promote breastfeeding in public areas including the workplace.

Evaluation of Antioxidant, Lipid Peroxidation and Toxic Effects after Pomegranate Intake in Healthy Human Volunteers

Studies have extensively demonstrated the activation of enzymic and nonenzymic antioxidants as well as decrease of lipid peroxidation status after pomegranate intake without any observable toxicity in animal models. Comparing to animal model studies, human trials are less done on these aspects. Cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species appears to be a major contributor in ageing and other degenerative diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, cataracts, compromised immune system, rheumatoid arthritis and brain dysfunction. Several literatures show that pomegranate has been used as a folk medicine from ancient times itself. As per the reviews, pomegranate fruit possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiatherogenic and antitoxic effects. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the circulatory levels of selected antioxidant and lipid peroxidation marker in healthy human volunteers before and after pomegranate intake for a period of 0 - 90 days. As the secondary objective of the study, we also assessed the toxic effects of pomegranate supplementation by determining Hepatobiliary and Renal function tests. The final result showed that majority of the study population showed a significant increase in enzymic and non-enzymic antioxidants and a decrease in oxidative stress after pomegranate intake without any observable toxicity in liver function and renal function. The significant healthy variations were more after the intake of pomegranate for a period of 90 days than that of 45 days.

Current Situations and Challenges Concerning Sexual Health among Unmarried Couples Composed of a Mix of Japanese, South Korean Nationals, and Ethnic Koreans Born in Japan (<i>Zainichi</i>): A Qualitative Study

South Korean nationals are heavily represented in Japan’s foreign population, making up around 20% of all foreign residents in the country. Koreans in Japan can be viewed in two groups: Korean nationals who work or study in Japan, and those of Korean ancestry who were born in Japan or otherwise have historical reasons for residency (commonly called zainichi). There are certain differences seen in gender roles and Confucianism-based traditional culture among Japanese, South Korean nationals, and zainichi. This qualitative study examined consciousness and attitudes about marriage, family planning, and work-life balance in unmarried couples among these three groups. Semi- structured interviews were conducted with five unmarried couples comprising two members from the above three groups (age range: 20 - 35 years), residing in the Kinki region of western Japan. Twelve categories, 25 subcategories, and 79 codes were extracted from 636 contexts. Values regarding sexual health were analyzed from four viewpoints: marriage, family planning, work-life ba- lance, and sexual concerns. The results showed that the couples thought positively about marriage and family planning, while they had several sources of anxiety related to Confucian values and problems stemming from their different nationalities/roots. It is possible that gender roles and Confucian beliefs affect their sexual health. The study underscores that health professionals should provide pertinent knowledge and skills about family planning and child rearing, as well as premarital sexual health counselling, for unmarried couples composed of Japanese, South Korean nationals, and zainichi.