Identifying the Question Similarity of Regulatory Documents in the Pharmaceutical Industry by Using the Recognizing Question Entailment System: Evaluation Study.

BACKGROUND: The regulatory affairs (RA) division in a pharmaceutical establishment is the point of contact between regulatory authorities and pharmaceutical companies. They are delegated the crucial and strenuous task of extracting and summarizing relevant information in the most meticulous manner from various search systems. An artificial intelligence (AI)-based intelligent search system that can significantly bring down the manual efforts in the existing processes of the RA department while maintaining and improving the quality of final outcomes is desirable. We proposed a "frequently asked questions" component and its utility in an AI-based intelligent search system in this paper. The scenario is further complicated by the lack of publicly available relevant data sets in the RA domain to train the machine learning models that can facilitate cognitive search systems for regulatory authorities. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to use AI-based intelligent computational models to automatically recognize semantically similar question pairs in the RA domain and evaluate the Recognizing Question Entailment-based system. METHODS: We used transfer learning techniques and experimented with transformer-based models pretrained on corpora collected from different resources, such as Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers (BERT), Clinical BERT, BioBERT, and BlueBERT. We used a manually labeled data set that contained 150 question pairs in the pharmaceutical regulatory domain to evaluate the performance of our model. RESULTS: The Clinical BERT model performed better than other domain-specific BERT-based models in identifying question similarity from the RA domain. The BERT model had the best ability to learn domain-specific knowledge with transfer learning, which reached the best performance when fine-tuned with sufficient clinical domain question pairs. The top-performing model achieved an accuracy of 90.66% on the test set. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates the possibility of using pretrained language models to recognize question similarity in the pharmaceutical regulatory domain. Transformer-based models that are pretrained on clinical notes perform better than models pretrained on biomedical text in recognizing the question's semantic similarity in this domain. We also discuss the challenges of using data augmentation techniques to address the lack of relevant data in this domain. The results of our experiment indicated that increasing the number of training samples using back translation and entity replacement did not enhance the model's performance. This lack of improvement may be attributed to the intricate and specialized nature of texts in the regulatory domain. Our work provides the foundation for further studies that apply state-of-the-art linguistic models to regulatory documents in the pharmaceutical industry.

Health and Lifestyle Issues among Youth: A Record Analysis of Contributing Factors among Beneficiaries Attending Youth Mental Health Promotion Clinics (Yuva Spandana Kendras) in Karnataka, India.

Background: Youth are consideren to be most vulnerable to health and lifestyle issues (HLS) in India. The current study aims to investigate the factors that contribute to health and lifestyle issues among youth attending mental health promotion clinics (YMHP) in Karnataka. Method: Three-year first-visit data from beneficiaries (aged 15-35 years) attending YMHP clinics in Karnataka between 2017 and 2020 were analyzed. Multivariable logistic regression analysis included beneficiaries reporting any HLS issue as the outcome and a host of 57 hypothesized variables as exposures. Results: Overall, 2,615 (25%) beneficiaries reported HLS issues. Years of schooling (AOR 5-7 years = 0.89; 95% confidence interval [CI] =0.60-1.31), (AOR 8-10 years = 0.65; 95% CI = 0.46-0.91), (AOR >10 years = 0.67; 95% CI = 0.49-0.93)], unemployed youth (AOR = 0.52; 95% CI = 0.45-0.61) business and salaried workers (AOR = 1.69; 95% CI = 1.33-2.13), and other occupations (AOR = 2.11; 95% CI = 1.73-2.56), junk food consumption (AOR = 0.76;95% CI = 0.68-0.84), having issues related to relationships with parents (AOR = 3.01; 95% CI = 2.47-3.68) and intergenerational issues (AOR = 1.71; 95% CI = 1.19-2.45), self-development issues (AOR low-self-awareness = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.33-1.85), (AOR low-self-esteem = 1.29; 95% CI = 1.062-1.57), (AOR emotional issues = 1.57; 95% CI = 1.31-1.89), education and academics (AOR = 1.23; 95% CI = 1.09-1.39), safety issues (AOR = 4.11; 95% CI = 3.07-5.50), gender sex and sexuality issues (AOR = 2.44; 95% CI = 1.43-4.15), suicidal ideation (AOR = 1.91; 95% CI = 1.44-2.54), substance use (AOR tobacco chewing = 1.45; 95% CI = 1.09-1.93), (AOR tobacco-smoking = 1.66; 95% CI = 1.18-2.32), (AOR smoking = 4.94; 95% CI = 3.52-6.93) and experiencing emotions (AOR feel anxious = 1.63; 95% CI = 1.41-1.88), (AOR forgetfulness = 1.50; 95% CI = 1.41-1.98), (AOR difficulty in concentration = 1.37; 95% CI = 1.035-1.81), (AOR anger = 1.61; 95% CI = 1.25-2.07), (AOR feel worthless = 2.21; 95% CI = 1.71-2.86) were associated with HLS issues among beneficiaries. Conclusion: This analysis addresses an important but neglected component of HLS issues among youth highlighting the importance of early intervention among youth to prevent the development of diseases later in life. The study has important implications for youth health promotion in India and countries such as India. Health and Lifestyle Issues Among Youth: A record analysis of contributing factors among beneficiaries attending Youth Mental Health promotion clinics (Yuva Spandana Kendras) in Karnataka, India.

Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Indian Immigrants in Australia towards Oral Cancer and Their Perceived Role of General Practitioners: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Oral cancer is highly prevalent in the Indian subcontinent. With the increasing immigration of Indians to Australia, a potential rise in oral cancer cases can be expected if they continue engaging in oral cancer risk practices. Unfortunately, little is known on this topic in the Australian context. This study aimed to generate new insights into this area by examining Indian immigrants' knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer in Australia and their perceived role of general practitioners in raising oral cancer awareness. Exploring these aspects could determine the oral cancer risk behaviours of Indians in Australia along with any contributing factors which could help identify potential preventative strategies. A cross-sectional survey was undertaken of 164 Indians across Australia. Data were analysed using SPSS software with descriptive statistics. Respondents had varying levels of knowledge about oral cancer (mean total score 61%), particularly around risk factors such as alcohol and areca nut use as well as oral cancer-related signs/symptoms. The majority (87.7%) had not received any information about oral cancer in a health care setting but were receptive (71-90%) to general practitioners playing a more active role in this area. Respondents were engaging in positive preventative oral health care though few were currently (6.7%) or previously (14.7%) chewing tobacco preparations. Further research is needed through larger studies to confirm the study findings and inform the development of culturally tailored strategies particularly involving general practitioners, to raise oral cancer awareness and provide early screening for Indian immigrants.

Oral cancer risk behaviours of Indian immigrants in Australia: a qualitative study.

OBJECTIVE: Oral cancer is widespread in South Asia, particularly India. In Australia, Indians are one of the fastest-growing communities. This study aimed to explore the oral cancer-related knowledge, attitudes and practices of Indian immigrants in Australia. METHODS: Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with Indian immigrants residing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball sampling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. RESULTS: All participants were knowledgeable of oral cancer risks associated with tobacco and alcohol, but few were familiar with the harmful effects of areca nut preparations. Varied attitudes were evident with most participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer check-ups, yet very few followed this practice. All participants admitted engaging in oral cancer risk practices including areca nut use at least once or more in their lifetime. CONCLUSION: Oral cancer risk practices are common among Indian immigrants in Australia who possess limited knowledge with varying attitudes in this area. Implications for public health: Preventative strategies are needed to limit the use of oral cancer risk products among Indian immigrants. General practitioners and community organisations can play a key role in raising awareness in this area.

Perceptions and Practices of General Practitioners towards Oral Cancer and Emerging Risk Factors among Indian Immigrants in Australia: A Qualitative Study.

BACKGROUND: In Australia, Indian immigrants are one of the fastest-growing communities. Since oral cancer is widespread in India, the indulgence of Indians in customs of areca (betel) nut use in Australia may be linked to the recent rise in oral cancer cases. Since GPs (general practitioners) are primary healthcare providers, it is pivotal to ensure the oral cancer awareness of GPs. This study aimed to explore oral cancer risk-related knowledge, beliefs, and clinical practices of GPs in Australia. METHODS: Fourteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with GPs practicing across New South Wales and Victoria. Purposive and snowball sampling were used for recruitment. Data were analysed through a directed content analysis approach. RESULTS: All GPs were knowledgeable of major oral cancer causative factors including tobacco and alcohol, but some had limited understanding about the risks associated with areca nut preparations. Positive attitudes were evident, with all participants acknowledging the importance of oral cancer risk assessment. Most GPs recalled not performing oral cancer routine check-ups. CONCLUSION: GPs presented good oral cancer knowledge except for emerging risk factors such as areca nut use. Varied beliefs and inconsistent clinical practices relating to oral cancer screening is concerning. Accessible oral cancer training around emerging risk factors may benefit GPs.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries regarding oral cancer: an integrative review.

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer is a growing problem worldwide, with high incidence rates in South Asian countries. With increasing numbers of South Asian immigrants in developed countries, a possible rise in oral cancer cases is expected given the high prevalence in their source countries and the continued oral cancer risk behaviours of immigrants. The aim of this review is to synthesise existing evidence regarding knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries regarding oral cancer. METHODS: Five electronic databases were systematically searched to identify original, English language articles focussing on oral cancer risk knowledge, attitudes and practices of South Asian immigrants in developed countries. All studies that met the following inclusion criteria were included: conducted among South Asian immigrants in developed countries; explored at least one study outcome (knowledge or attitudes or practices); used either qualitative, quantitative or mixed methods. No restrictions were placed on the publication date, quality and setting of the study. RESULTS: A total of 16 studies involving 4772 participants were reviewed. These studies were mainly conducted in the USA, UK, Italy and New Zealand between 1994 and 2018. Findings were categorised into themes of oral cancer knowledge, attitudes and practices. General lack of oral cancer risk knowledge (43-76%) among participants was reported. More than 50% people were found engaging in one or more oral cancer risk practices like smoking, betel quid/pan/gutka chewing. Some of the participants perceived betel quid/pan/gutka chewing habit good for their health (12-43.6%). CONCLUSION: This review has shown that oral cancer risk practices are prevalent among South Asian immigrants who possess limited knowledge and unfavourable attitude in this area. Culturally appropriate targeted interventions and strategies are needed to raise oral cancer awareness among South Asian communities in developed countries.

Knowledge, attitudes and practices of general medical practitioners in developed countries regarding oral cancer: an integrative review.

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer is a public health concern and is widespread in developing countries, particularly in South Asia. However, oral cancer cases are also rising in developed nations due to various factors, including smoking, viruses and increased migration from South Asia. In this context, the role of general medical practitioners (GPs) in identifying oral cancer is becoming increasingly important and, while some studies have explored their perspective about oral cancer, a synthesis of these results has not been undertaken. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this integrative review is to synthesize existing evidence regarding oral cancer-related knowledge, attitudes and practices of GPs in developed countries. METHODS: Four electronic databases were searched to identify studies focussing on the objective of this review. The inclusion criteria were: peer-reviewed English language publications; studies conducted in developed countries involving GPs; explored at least one study outcome (knowledge/attitudes/practices). No restrictions were placed on the publication date. RESULTS: A total of 21 studies involving 3409 GPs were reviewed. Most studies revealed limited knowledge of GPs about emerging risk factors, such as betel nut chewing (0.8-50%). Significant variation (7-70%) was evident in routine oral examination practices of GPs. Most GPs felt unsure about diagnosing oral cancer and many (38-94%) raised the need for further education. No study explored the specific relevance of GPs' practices concerning South Asian immigrants. CONCLUSION: This review suggests the need for educational programs to enhance GPs' knowledge regarding oral cancer. Further research exploring oral cancer-related practices of GPs caring for South Asian immigrants is warranted.

Comparison of the Effect for Fracture Resistance of Different Coronally Extended Post Length with Two Different Post Materials.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To compare the effect for fracture resistance of different coronally extended post length with two different post materials. MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and sixty endodontically treated maxillary central incisors embedded in acrylic resin with decoronated root portion were taken for the study. The postspaces were prepared according to standard protocol. The samples were divided into two groups according to the post material: glass-fiber post and Quartz fiber post. These groups were further subdivided on the basis of coronal extension of 4 and 6 mm for glass fiber and Quartz fiber posts, respectively. The posts were then luted with dual-polymerizing resin cement followed by core buildup. Samples were subjected to increasing compressive oblique load until fracture occurred in a universal testing machine. Data were analyzed with one-way ANOVA and independent Student's t-test. Analysis was done using SPSS version 15 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) Windows software program. RESULTS: Glass fiber post with coronal extension of 4 mm (182.8 N) showed better results than with 6-mm length (124.1 N). Similarly, in quartz fiber posts group, 4-mm postlength (314 N) was better when compared with 6 mm (160 N). The 4-mm coronal extension of quartz fiber post displayed superior fracture resistance. CONCLUSIONS: Glass fiber posts showed better fracture resistance than Quartz fiber posts. 4-mm coronal length showed more fracture resistance than 6 mm.

Relationship between Respiratory and Periodontal Health in Adults: A Case-Control Study.

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: The colonization of the respiratory pathogens has been found in the oral cavity. In the high-risk patients for lung infection; the risk factor is the high colonization of the respiratory pathogens in the oral cavity. The present study was performed with an aim to investigate the relationship between periodontal health and respiratory diseases. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The present cross-sectional study was conducted in the individuals who were attending the outpatient department of dentistry and those who signed the informed consent to participate in the study. A total of 198 patients were included in the present study. Ninety-nine patients with respiratory diseases were included in the test group and 99 patients with normal pulmonary function were added in the control group. Spirometry was used for the confirmation of the lung diseases. We had assessed the clinical parameters such as plaque index, gingival index, loss of attachment, and community periodontal index with the help of SPSS software 15 and compared between cases and controls. RESULTS: The mean age of control patients were 35.12 and for respiratory patients was 43.32. There were 65 males and 34 females in case group with respiratory diseases. The controls consisted of 63 males and 36 females. The high scores for various gingival and periodontal indexes in respiratory patients confirmed more periodontal destruction with respect to that group, compared to the nonrespiratory group. CONCLUSION: It is concluded that a strong association between periodontitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease was found. The assessment of the risk factors along with patient education regarding the risk should be done so that suitable intervention strategies can be implemented.