bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Air pollution and its effects on emergency room visits in tertiary respiratory care centres in Delhi, India
Authors: Kumar Raj , Mrigpuri Parul , Sarin Rohit , Saini Jitender Kumar , Yadav Rashmi , Nagori Aditya , Kabra Sushil Kumar , Mukherjee Arpana , Yadav Geetika
Published: March 2023

Environmental pollution has harmful effects on human health, particularly the respiratory system. We aimed to study the impact of daily ambient air pollution on daily emergency room visits for acute respiratory symptoms. This study was conducted in two tertiary respiratory care centres in Delhi, India. Daily counts of emergency room visits were collected. All patients attending the emergency room were screened for acute onset (less than 2 weeks) of respiratory symptoms and were recruited if they were staying in Delhi continuously for at least 4 weeks and having onset (≤2 weeks) of respiratory symptoms. Daily average air pollution data for the study period was obtained from four continuous ambient air quality monitoring stations. A total of 61,285 patients were screened and 11,424 were enrolled from June 2017 to February 2019. Cough and difficulty in breathing were most common respiratory symptoms. Poor air quality was observed during the months of October to December. Emergency room visits with acute respiratory symptoms significantly increased per standard deviation increase in PM10 from lag days 2-7. Increase in wheezing was primarily seen with increase in NO2. Pollutant levels have effect on acute respiratory symptoms and thus influence emergency room visits.
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*Appendix Authors list
Kamal Singhal1, Kana Ram Jat2, Karan Madan3, Mohan P George4, Kalaivani Mani5, Randeep Guleria3, Ravindra Mohan Pandey5, Rupinder Singh Dhaliwal6, Rakesh Lodha2, Varinder Singh1
1Department of Paediatrics, Lady Hardinge Medical College and associated Kalawati Saran Children's Hospital, New Delhi, India2Department of Paediatrics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India3Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Critical Care and Sleep Disorders, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India4Department of Environment, Delhi Pollution Control Committee, Kashmere Gate, New Delhi, India5Department of Biostatistics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India6Department of Non-communicable Diseases, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
A New Model for Organic Contamination Assessments Using Benthic Macroinvertebrates as Biological Indicators
Authors: Hettige Nadeesha Dilani , Hashim Rohasliney , Kutty Ahmad Abas , Ashaari Zulfa Hanan
Published: March 2023

The main goal of this study was to develop a model for organic pollution assessment. Seven sampling sites in six rivers in the Rawang sub-basin, Selangor River, Malaysia, were selected with one reference site. The sampling sites near the fish farm were used to develop the model. SR2 was used for the validation of the developed model. Benthic macroinvertebrates and water sampling were conducted from April 2019 to March 2020. The Principal Components Analysis (PCA) and regression were conducted to select the most representing benthic macroinvertebrates family. Based on the score value (variance coefficient) of each benthic macroinvertebrates family, the cumulative score value of each sampling site was calculated (i.e., 18=6 sampling sites x 3 replicates). The nine benthic macroinvertebrate families (Baetidae, Libellulidae, Protoneuridae Chironomidae, Curbicullidae Hydropchysidae, Tubificidae, Lumbriculiade, and Naididae) were identified using PCA and regression. The cluster analysis and mean confidence intervals were used to classify water quality classes precisely. Finally, three different value scales were produced to represent the level of contamination (i.e., <0.69 as organically polluted, 0.69-0.87 as slightly organic polluted, and >0.87 as clean status). The newly developed model was validated. The results produced after validation were better than the water quality status from other studies based on the BMWP/BMWPThai score. This study concludes that the developed model can evaluate river organic contamination successfully. model can evaluate river organic contamination successfully.
Položaj slovenske manjšine na avstrijskem Koroškem v postmodernem družbenem utripu
Authors: Zupančič Jernej
Published: March 2023

Prispevek prikazuje sodobne prostorske in socialne procese na avstrijskem Koroškem in analizira položaj slovenske manjšine v pogojih postmodernega družbenega stadija. Manjšina je družbeni kolektiv, ki se je skozi desetletja številčno zmanjševal zaradi asimilacije. To so sprožali tako namerni asimilacijski ukrepi na eni ter vrsta dejavnikov v družbenem okolju na drugi strani. Proučujemo, kako in v kakšni meri lahko značilnosti prostorskih struktur in življenjski slog ljudi v postmoderni družbi vplivajo na pripadnike manjšine.
Editorial: Non-communicable diseases; sexual reproductive issues; infectious diseases and health systems challenges
Authors: K Tumwine James
Published: March 2023

Nil.
Sociodemographic and gynaecological factors that influence uptake of cervical cancer screening. A cross-sectional study in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: U Ago Boniface , E Efiok Efiok , E Abeng Sunday
Published: March 2023

Background: Voluntary screening for cervical cancer has not been very effective in sub-Saharan Africa. Awareness and presence of risk factors may drive the need to screen.

Objective: To characterise sociodemographic and gynaecological factors as promoters of screening uptake.

Methodology: The setting was a women health rally in Calabar, Nigeria with women from different towns/ villages in Cross River State. An interviewer-administered questionnaire assessed sociodemographic and gynaecological risk factors for cervical cancer, previous Pap smear, and acceptance to screen. Data inputted in EpiInfo 7, and GraphPad Prism 7.04 statistical software’s, were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: One hundred and eighty (180) women gave consent for inclusion in the study. The age ranged from 21 to 65 with a mean of 39.8±10.3 years. With 52.22% of respondents accepting and 47.78% declining to screen, test of association showed that knowledge of cervical cancer, history of multiple sexual partners, and presence of offensive watery vaginal discharge significantly reduced the number of women who refused to screen. Previously screened women were not more likely to accept screening.Conclusion: Screening for cervical cancer was still poor. Cervical cancer knowledge and recognition of risk factors improve screening uptake.

Keywords: Cervical cancer screening uptake; risk factors.
Review of core stability exercise versus conventional exercise in the management of chronic low back pain
Authors: Dickson Nwodo Obinna , Olanrewaju Ibikunle Peter , Linda Ogbonna Nnenna , Umezulike Ani Kenneth , Christain Okonkwo Arinze , Joy Eze Chinenye , Uchenna Onwudiwe Chukwudi , Uroko Ezeja Godwin , Adaobi Maduanusi Ifeoma
Published: March 2023

Exercise has been proven to be effective in the management of chronic low back pain. Over the years, core stability exercise (CSE) has gained popularity however there is lack of consensus on the best exercise treatment.

Aims: To review the effectiveness of core stability exercises or conventional exercises in the management of chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Methods: This study is a systematic review of randomized clinical trials which examined studies regarding core stability and conventional exercise by using Google scholar, Medline, PEDro and Cochrane from 2010 to 2021. The Methodological quality was evaluated using the PEDro scale. The included studies randomized participants into two different exercise groups.

Results: From the 58 potentially relevant trials, a total of 14 trials were included in the current analysis. The data indicated that core stability exercise was better than conventional exercise for short term pain relief. Ten studies included self reported back specific functional status, and compared to conventional exercise, core stability exercise resulted in significant improvement in function.

Conclusion: Compared to conventional exercise, core stability exercise is more effective in pain reduction and improved physical function in individuals with CLBP in the short term however, only two trials carried out follow-up assessments post intervention.

Keywords: Core stability exercise; conventional exercise; chronic low back pain.
Prevalence, patterns, functional disability of Bertolotti syndrome among patients with low back pain at Mulago National Referral Hospital
Authors: Owen Alinda Nicholas , Mugarura Rodney , Malagala Joseph , Kisembo Harriet
Published: March 2023

Background: Bertolotti syndrome is a differential diagnosis in back pain. We know little about it in Uganda. This study aimed to describe the prevalence, clinical and radiological patterns of Bertolotti syndrome and functional disability associated with it.Methods: We did a descriptive cross-sectional study at the spine outpatients’ clinic of Mulago National Referral Hospital. We screened patients with chronic low back pain for lumbosacral transitional vertebrae over four months and classified them according to Castellvi. We collected demographics, clinical symptoms, and functional disability data and summarized it descriptively.Results: Out of 385 patients, we identified 39 with Bertolotti syndrome. The prevalence and the median age were at 10.1% and 49 years respectively, with most patients being females (66.7%) in the age range of (36 to 50) years, the pain started during the age range of 31-40. The commonest and least were type IIA (20.5%) and type IV (10.3%), respectively. Most patients (66.3%) had radicular symptoms, mainly the toe extension nerve root. The average visual analog scale was 6.3. However, most patients suffered from mild- to moderate disability (66.7%).Conclusion: Bertolotti syndrome is common and functionally debilitating. We should consider it in the differential diagnosis of chronic low back pain.

Keywords: Bertolotti syndrome; Transitional vertebrae; Functional disability.
Application of blended integrated revision course in clinical surgery in West Africa in response to Covid-19 pandemic: perception of trainee surgeons
Authors: Okwuchukwu Ekenze Sebastian , Ogbonnaya Uche Enoch , Ifeanyi Nnabugwu Ikenna , Enemuo Vincent , Okoh David , Kalu Uko Uko , Rapuluchukwu Emmanuel
Published: March 2023

Background/Objective: This study assessed the surgery residents’ evaluation of blended delivery of the 2020 Integrated Revision Course in Clinical Surgery (IRCCS) of the West African College of Surgeons undertaken as a result of COVID-19pandemic.

Methods: We performed a cross-sectional survey of 234 participants of the 2020 IRCCS using self-administered questionnaire. The survey assessed the previous traditional course and various aspects of the novel blended course using 5-point Likert scale.

Results: Overall, 186 (79.5%) responded. The blended course had overall mean rating of 4.92 (on a 5-point scale) compared to 4.05 for the previous traditional course. Of the virtual aspect of the blended course, didactic lectures had the best mean rating of 4.32, while unmanned OSCE had the least with mean rating of 3.30. Aspects of the multicentre component of the blended course were rated highly with conduct of manned OSCE receiving the best mean rating of 4.26. The major challenge of the blended course format was poor internet connectivity (n =102; 54.8%),

Conclusion: Blended format of surgical training course is well rated by the surgery residents, and may be an effective means of delivery of clinical and non-clinical course contents during periods of disruption.

Keywords: Surgical training; COVID-19 pandemic; virtual training; blended format; West Africa.
Rs7537605 polymorphism in VAV3 gene and rs28665122 polymorphism in SEPS gene are not associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis in North-East Algerian population
Authors: Kherrour Warda , Benbia Souheyla , Hambaba Leila , Kaličanin Dean
Published: March 2023

Background: Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is the most common form of autoimmune thyroid disease which leads, in most cases, to hypothyroidism. HT is also classified as a multifactorial disease, which is caused by an interaction between genetic and environmental factors. Current knowledge of HT genetics is still very limited, especially in Algerian population.

Objective: We wanted to investigate the association of two single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) inside VAV3 and SEPS genes with HT in Algerian population.

Methods: We conducted a case-control study that included 100 HT cases and 126 healthy controls that were recruited from three private endocrinology clinics. Two SNPs, rs7537605 and rs28665122 inside VAV3 and SEPS genes were genotyped using real-time polymerase chain reaction (real-time PCR). Binary logistic regression model was used to test the association of selected SNs with HT and linear regression model was used to test association of these SNPs with thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) levels.

Results: Binary logistic regression results revealed no allelic association of the minor allele A between Hashimoto's thyroiditis cases and healthy controls (P=0.896) for the rs7537606 in VAV3 gene. The same observation was reported for the AA (P=0.477), AG (P=0.752) genotypes and for the genotypic models: dominant (P=1.0) and recessive (P=0.555). Also, there was no significant difference in the TT (P=0.230), TC (P=0.717) and allelic distribution of the minor allele T (P=0.859), and the combined models: TT + TC (P=1.0), TC + CC (P=0.138) between patients and controls for the rs28665122 polymorphism ofthe SEPS1 gene.

Conclusion: This is the first genetic study that investigated the genetic association of rs7537605 and rs28665122 inside VAV3 and SEPS genes in Algerian population. Our results suggest that these two SNPs may not be involved in the pathogeneses of HT since we found no association between them and HT/TPOAb levels. Further research that will include larger sample size is required.

Keywords: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis; inflammation; hypothyroidism; rs7537605; rs28665122; Algerian population.
The association of cardiometabolic disorders with sleep duration: a cross-sectional study
Authors: R Prakaschandra Dorcas , P Naidoo Datshanna
Published: March 2023

Background: Alterations in sleep duration and quality are linked to the development of cardiovascular risk factors and the metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of this study was to determine a sex stratified analysis on the role and associations of sleep duration on cardiometabolic risk factors, and the MetS.

Methods: Data from 1375 randomly selected participants (15-64 years) was collected for demographic, anthropometric, blood pressure and biochemistry data after overnight fasting, and derangements diagnosed according to published guidelines. Analysis of association between the MetS (harmonised criteria modified for South Asians), sleep duration (self-reported for a 24-hour period), and cardiometabolic risk factors was done using stepwise logistic regression.

Results: The BMI, waist circumference (WC), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), fasting plasma glucose, total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein were higher (p< 0.05) in subjects who slept <6 hours, with lower HDL. Under 6 hours of sleep was independently associated with raised FPG in men (OR 1.71 95% CI [1.53,5.52]) only. More than 10 hours of sleep was independently associated with increased triglyceride levels in men (1.72[0.56, 5.23]) and women (2.25[1.93,5.42]).

Conclusion: The individual components of the Mets, particularly, increased triglycerides and blood glucose are associated with sleep deprivation or excess.

Keywords: Sleep Time; Metabolic Syndrome X; Cardiovascular Risk.
Awareness, knowledge, risk perception and uptake of maternal vaccination in rural communities of Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Chinyem Madubueze Ugochukwu , Friday Igwe Una Alfred , Nkem Okedo-Alex Ijeoma , Maduka Agha Victor , David Umeokonkwo Chukwuma , Ifeyinwa Eze Irene , Utulu Rowland , Chijioke Okeke Kingsley , Nnenne Agbo Urudinachi , Ndidiamaka Nwobashi Lilian , Alo Chihurumnanya , Ndubueze Azuogu Benedict
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Knowledge and uptake of maternal vaccination has been reported to be low in low- and middle-income countries.

Objectives: To determine the knowledge, uptake and determinants of uptake of maternal vaccination among women of childbearing age.

Methods: A cross sectional study was done among 607 women of childbearing age selected from rural communities in Ebonyi State using multi-staged sampling technique. A pretested, interviewer administered questionnaire was used. The proportion of maternal vaccination uptake and predictors of uptake was determined at 5% level of significant using multiple logistic regression model.

Results: Most of the respondents (39.9%) were in the 15-24 years age group. Only 1.3% and 41.5% were knowledgeable and had received any form of maternal vaccines respectively. The main reasons adduced for non-receipt of the vaccine was lack of information (65.8%) and not being pregnant (23.5%). Pregnancy was the predictor for uptake of maternal vaccine among the study population.

Conclusions: There was low level of knowledge and uptake of maternal vaccine among rural women and a myth that the vaccine is only given when pregnant. This calls for increase targeted enlightenment of rural women on maternal vaccine in order to improve uptake.

Keywords: Maternal vaccination; rural communities; Nigeria.
Discontinuation of contraceptives among adolescent girls aged 15-19 years in Nigeria: a descriptive analysis
Authors: Ojoniyi Olaide , Ogujiuba Kanayo , Stiegler Nancy
Published: March 2023

Background: Adolescent girls are the mostly affected with maternal and child complications. Contraceptive use is an important tool in curbing sexual and reproductive health challenges especially among adolescent girls in the developing countries. Despite, the low use of contraceptives among adolescents in Nigeria, the possibility of discontinuation of use after initiation is strong.

Objective: This study aims to identify method of contraceptive use discontinued and reasons for discontinuation of contraceptives among unmarried adolescents aged 15-19 years in Nigeria.

Method: Data for 324 never married adolescent girls who had ever used a method to prevent pregnancy were drawn from the 2018 Nigerian Demographic and Health Survey. Descriptive statistics and chart were used to present the results.

Result: Findings showed that 20% of adolescents who had ever used contraceptive discontinued use in the last five years. Most of single adolescents who reported ever discontinued a contraceptive method are older, have secondary education, resides in Urban areas, were at least 15 years at sexual debut are from richer household. Most reported reasons for discontinuation were Infrequent sex and inconveniencey in use.

Conclusion: One in five of unmarried adolescents who ever use a method, discontinue use because of sexual frequency andtype of method used.

Keywords: Contraceptive; discontinuation; adolescents; unmarried; NDHS; Nigeria.
Factors associated with successful vaginal birth after cesarean section among mothers who gave birth in Ambo town, Oromia, Central Ethiopia, a case-control study
Authors: Kassa Mamo Negash , Melese Siyoum Desta
Published: March 2023

Background: While Trial of labour after previous cesarean section for women with no contraindication for vaginal delivery is an important strategy to reduce short- and long-term morbidity related with repeated cesarean section, the rate of cesarean section and repeated cesarean section with its complication are increasing.

Objective: The objective of the study was to assess factors associated with successful vaginal birth among women with previous cesarean delivery in public hospitals of Ambo town in 2019.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted in Ambo public Hospitals in 2019. A total of 243 clients were included, of which 81 clients were cases and 162 clients were controls with controls to cases ratio of 2. A Lottery method was applied to select the controls and cases were selected consecutively. Bivariate, followed by multivariate analyses, were conducted with 95% CI and p-value <0.05 to identify factors associated with successful vaginal birth after cesarean delivery.

Result: Parity three and four(AOR = 3.45, 95%CI(1.16, 10.229), labour monitoring with partograph (AOR= 4.77, 95%CI: 1.65,13.88), prior vaginal birth after caesareans (AOR = 5.68, 95%CI:1.44,22.46), occiput-posterior position (AOR = 0.109, 95%CI: (0.02, 0.49), duration of labour after admission less than 8 hours (AOR = 4.57, 95%CI: 1.92,10.85) and artificial rupture of membrane (AOR = 5.02 95%CI: 1.67,15.06) were factors significantly associated with successful vaginal birth after previous cesarean section. 

Conclusion: The study shows that parity, duration of labour, previous history of successful vaginal birth after cesarean section, artificial rupture of membrane, and partograph monitoring of labour were associated with successful vaginal birth after previous cesarean section. All Women with a history of cesarean section should be counselled and encouraged to undergo a trial of labour as long as it is not contraindicated.

Keywords: Previous cesarean section; vaginal birth after cesareans; Ambo; Ethiopia.
Maternal health-seeking behaviour of peri-urban women living with disability in Busiro South Health sub District, Wakiso district, Uganda: a community-based study
Authors: Natukunda Bonny , Musoke David , Kiconco Arthur , Mugambe Samuel , Atuhairwe Christine
Published: March 2023

Aim: We examined the maternal healthcare-seeking behaviour of peri-urban women with disabilities in Busiro South Health Sub District, Wakiso district, Uganda.

Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study. Data were collected using semi-structured questionnaires and focus group discussions. Chi-square was used to test for differences, and logistic regression to determine factors associated with maternal health-seeking behaviour at a 5% level of significance. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative data.

Results: A total of 182 women with disabilities were enrolled. Overall, 150 (82.3%) of the disabled women had attended ANC and 147 (80.8%) had delivered their babies at a health facility. The participants' mean age was 31.9±7.8years (range: 17-49 years). ANC attendance among disabled women was influenced by maternal age 18-30 years (p = 0.010), number of times a disabled woman was pregnant (p = 0.003), parity (p = 0.018), a normal delivery (p = 0.048), receiving financial support from friends of partners (p < 0.001), distance of less than 5KM to the health facility (p = 0.024), friendliness of the health care providers (p=0.030) and availability of health providers (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: There is an urgent need for a multi-sectoral approach to better healthcare-seeking behaviour.

Keywords: Peri-urban; maternal health-seeking behaviour; disabled women; Uganda.
Seroprevalence and risk factors of Toxoplasmosis among HIV infected women of child-bearing age attending care and treatment clinics in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: O Kibwana Upendo , Manyahi Joel , B Nkinda Lilian , S Renatus Dominic , D Kamori Doreen , Majigo Mtebe
Published: March 2023

Background: Toxoplasmosis in HIV-infected women of child-bearing age (HIV-WCB) increases the risk for congenital toxoplasmosis, leading to many complications. However, its magnitude is unknown in this population.

Objectives: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with toxoplasmosis among HIV-WCB.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted from July to August 2020 among HIV- WCB attending care and treatment clinic (CTC) at Muhimbili National Hospital and Mnazi Mmoja hospital. Questionnaire and TORCH rapid test were used to obtain data and serological testing respectively. Data analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 20.

Results: Overall, 29.7% of the study participants were positive for anti-T. gondii IgG, whereas none tested positive for IgM. Multivariate analysis showed that the probability of being infected with T. gondii increased by 57.1% for participants who consumed raw vegetables (p=0.005, aOR=0.43, 95%CI = 1.24-8.77). Other common risk factors such as undercooked meat consumption, source of drinking water, and cat ownership at home showed no association.

Conclusion: A high number of HIV-WCB have not developed immunity to T. gondii in the study area. Introduction of routine screening during antenatal visits for pregnant women and further epidemiological studies are warranted in the country.

Keywords: T. gondii; HIV women.
Investigation of the effects of mir-219-1 gene variants on the development of disease in non-small cell lung cancer patients
Authors: Kalkanli Tas Sevgi , Coskunpinar Ender , Yildiz Pinar , Bayraktaroğlu Mesut , Kose Tuba , Altunkanat Derya , Kirkik Duygu , Tukenmez Mustafa
Published: March 2023

Background: Various variants of the miR-219-1 gene are one of the first genes associated with NSCLC prognosis in the literature.

Objectives: We aimed to genotype two different variants of the miR-219-1 gene and to investigate to using of the result as a biomarker in the diagnosis and treatment of NSCLC.

Materials and Methods: The patients were chosen according to International NSCLC criteria and genomic DNA was isolated from blood (138 patients and 100 healthy individuals). Then qRT-PCR was applied to determine the rs213210 and rs421446 variants of miR-219-1 gene polymorphisms. Allele and genotype frequencies were compared using Pearson’s chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests test.

Results: We found that TT genotype (p=0,381) in rs213210 compared with CC genotype (p=0,165) and CC genotype (p=0,823) in rs421446 compared with TT genotype (p=0,537) did not show a significantly increased risk of NSCLC. There is no relationship between polymorphisms in miR-219-1 and the outcome of NSCLC.

Conclusion: miRNA single nucleotide polymorphisms can be used as genetic biomarkers to predict cancer susceptibility, early diagnosis, and prognosis. Our study has shown that two variants of miR-219-1 were not related to NSCLC in the Turkish population. The reason for this can be differences in ethnicity, regions, and background of population and these differences could lead to various outcomes.

Keywords: NSCLC; miR-219-1 gene; single-nucleotide polymorphisms.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the Mediterranean region over 18 months: bridging the health outcomes and sustainable development goals
Authors: Cuschieri Sarah , Grech Elizabeth , Gatt Adrienne , Cutajar Angelica , Vassallo Carine , Zahra Daniel , Farrugia Francesca , Cutajar Karen , Mifsud Leonie , Aldousari Nourah , Baldacchino Raissa , Caruana Rebecca , Camilleri Samuel , Azzopardi Sarah , Cassar Sarah , Miceli Farrugia Sarah , Agius Daniel , Cuschieri Andrea
Published: March 2023

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic spread across the globe, including across the Mediterranean basin. This region presents diversity in economy, culture, and societal affairs. We attempted to evaluate the impact of COVID-19 on the population and on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), our aim being to aid in the development of COVID-19 national plans.

Methods: Epidemiological data was obtained from ‘Our World in Data’ databases (January 2020 – July 2021). Case, mortality, and vaccination incidence comparisons were made across neighbouring countries. The SDG index, universal health coverage (UHC) and health workforce targets were collected for each country. Correlations between SDG targets and COVID-19 outcomes were analysed.

Results: Similarities in morbidity and mortality outcomes were present across neighbouring countries, with a bidirectional relationship between cumulative fully vaccinated population and infectivity fatality rates. Positive relationships were present between SDG indexes, UHC and health workforces and COVID-19 cases, deaths, and vaccinations.

Conclusion: At prima face, high-income countries seem to have sustained worse morbidity and mortality outcomes, despite having had better UHC and a greater health workforce in the pre-COVID-19 era however, one must also consider that factors such as health-seeking behaviour and underdiagnosis may have influenced this. Cross-border infectivity was, however, evident. Pan-Mediterranean action must therefore be taken to ensure COVID-19 transmissibility and mortality are reduced across borders, while ensuring an equitable health outcome across populations.

Keywords: COVID-19; Mediterranean; Morbidity; Mortality; Vaccination; Sustainable Development Goals; Outcome Assessment.
Medication counselling practices amid COVID -19 pandemic and associated factors in drug retail outlets of Jimma town, Southwest Ethiopia: cross-sectional study
Authors: Boche Bekele , Angasu Kebenesa , Alemu Sintayehu , Awoke Mengist
Published: March 2023

Background: Patients’ good understanding and awareness of drug information received at the drug retail outlet is paramount to gaining expected outcomes. In the COVID-19 pandemic, the routine counselling practice faced multifactorial challenges.Objectives: The study aimed to assess medication counseling practice and associated factors in drug retail outlets of Jimma town, southwest Ethiopia.Methods: A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using an interviewer administered questionnaire. The data were analysed by using SPSS version 23. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with medicationcounselling practice.Results: A total of 180 pharmacy professionals were enrolled in the study, about half (51.1%) of the participants reported good medication counselling provision for their patients. In A multivariable logistic regression analysis, reduced pharmacist’s level of communication (AOR=0.008; CI: 0.001-0.292; p= 0.009) and shortage of personal protective equipment (AOR=0.021; CI: 0.002-0.226; p=0.002) due Covid-19 were factors associated with poor medication counselling practice. 

Conclusion: Reduced level of communication and shortage of personal protective equipment due to Covid-19 were factors associated with poor medication counselling practice. In general, Jimma town health offices and Oromia Region Health bureau should struggle in association with other stakeholders to improve the identified bottleneck of pharmacist’s counselling practice.

Keywords: Counseling practice; COVID -19; drug retail outlet; Jimma.
Bacteriological profile of wound infections and antimicrobial resistance in selected gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Bandy Altaf , A Wani Farooq , H Mohammed Abdul , F Dar Umar , R Dar Mushtaq , A Tantry Bilal
Published: March 2023

Background: Managing wound infections is a challenging task. Understanding their resistance pattern is an essential step at reducing its burden in hospital settings.

Objective: To determine the bacteriological diversity of wound infections and the antimicrobial resistance exhibited by a selected Gram-negative bacterium in the Aljouf region of Saudi Arabia.

Methods: The study retrospectively analysed the antibiograms of wound infections from hospitalized patients for the year 2019. The European Centre for Disease Control guidelines were adopted for the classification of resistant bacteria. Multidrug-, extensive drug-, and carbapenem-resistant isolates are presented as frequencies and percentages.

Results: A total of 295 non-duplicate wound swab antibiograms were retrieved, 64.4% (190) and 35.6% (105) isolates were Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacterial infections respectively. Predominant pathogens included Staphylococcus species 21.0% (62), E. coli 16.3% (48) and K. pneumoniae 13.5% (40). 148 (77.9%), 42 (22.1%) and 43 (22.6%) of the Gram-negative isolates were multidrug-, extensively drug- and carbapenem-resistant. The antibiotic resistance exhibited by gram-negative bacteria was 43.4% (234/539), 59.1% (224/379) and 53.7% (101/188) towards carbapenems, 3rd - and 4th – generation cephalosporins.

Conclusions: The majority of wound infections are caused by multidrug-, extensively drug- and carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Further studies should focus on the molecular basis of this resistance.

Keywords: Wound infections; hospital; Gram-negative bacteria; antibiograms; multidrug-resistance; E. coli.
Traditional medicine trade and uses in the surveyed medicine markets of Western Kenya
Authors: Kibet Chebii Willy , Kaunga Muthee John , Karatu Kiemo James
Published: March 2023

Background: There exist vast traditional medicine and herbal remedies prescribed for diseases and socio-cultural ills that are sold in local medicine markets.Objectives: To assess the common traditional medicine traded in the local medicine markets and used for treating common diseases.Methods: The study was carried out in nine purposively selected medicine markets spread out in seven administrative counties of Western Kenya. Purposive sampling with elements of snow ball method was employed in the identification of willing respondents.In addition, face to face interviews were conducted with the aid of a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire that sought to extract a targeted and expertise information from the respondents.Results: The survey recorded 45 commonly traded plant families composed of 78 genera and 87 medicinal plant species. Meliaceae, Apocynaceae and Fabaceae were leading plant families whereas Trichilia emetica, Azadirachta indica, Dregea schimperi and Aloe spp. were commonly traded.Conclusion: Traditional medicine traded in the local medicine markets continue to play a significant role in the treatment of common diseases. Frequently traded medicinal plant species should be prioritized for conservation.Keywords: Traditional Medicine; Common disease treated; Medicine markets.
Disruptive behaviours involving radiographers that impede a safe work environment. Survey at central hospitals in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chinene Bornface , Pauline Nkosi Busisiwe , Nokuthula Sibiya Maureen
Published: March 2023

Background: Understanding disruptive behaviours from the perspective of radiographers is important, as this professional group uses hazardous radiation in the execution of their duties, making patient safety of utmost concern.Objective: Determine the disruptive behaviours involving radiographers at central hospitals in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe.Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was carried out at central hospitals in Harare Metropolitan Province, Zimbabwe, where 100 radiographers were randomly selected.Results: Overall, 83% of radiographers had been exposed to an incident of DB in the preceding 12 months. Reported types of disruptive behaviour included: Verbal abuse (81%), sexual abuse (21%) and physical abuse (4%). Of the 21 radiographers that suffered sexual abuse, the majority 71 % (n=15) were female while 29% (n=6) were males. Prevalence odds ratio revealed that female radiographers were 1.8 times more likely than their male counterparts to be victims of the workplace sexual abuse (95% C.I.: 0 – 3.04). A significant 69% were abused by patients and their families/escorts, p=.001.Conclusion: More than 8 out of 10 radiographers in this study were exposed to disruptive behaviours, mostly from the patients and patient’s family or escorts. A framework to increases awareness and address these behaviours is recommended.Keywords: Disruptive behaviour; radiographers; Zimbabwe.
The Impact of Christianity on Traditional Naming Ceremony in the New Juaben Traditional Area
Authors: Dadey Gertrude Otubea
Published: March 2023

This study sought to explore the influence of Christianity on the African Akan naming ceremony with focus on the people of New Juaben Traditional Area. The developmental stages of human life experience have been earmarked by rites of passage that represent crucial facets in the cultural outlook and make-up of every society. These rites of passage include birth and childhood rites (naming ceremony), puberty, marriage and death rites. The Akan like every other society practises the naming ceremony in a way that reflects their cultural values, beliefs and traditions. Unfortunately, this culturally engineered practices have posed an ethico-religious dilemma regarding the ideal naming ceremony approach for an African Akan Christian. The aim of the study was realized through sampling 20 participants who were subjected to in-depth interview sessions. The study found out that Christianity has impacted Akan traditional naming ceremony in ways such as timing of naming ritual, traditional familial roles, naming rituals and emblems and the type of name given to the child. Conclusively, traditional religious adherents must constantly uphold its cultural heritage in the face of modernism which may sometimes demand a change in customs and societal traditions. Giving relevance to traditional naming ceremonies is the first step. The study recommends the need to document cultural practice for future generations as lived experiences may be tainted by factors that tend to demonize the Akan cultural practice of naming ceremonies.
Supply creating its own Demand in Ghana’s Urban Transportation: Economic Analysis of Motor Tricycle Transport System in Kumasi
Authors: Mohammed Mujaheed , Quartey Jonathan D
Published: March 2023

The booming motor tricycle transportation system in urban areas in Ghana offers far reaching insights for policy reform. The freedom to choose one’s means of transportation had for a long time been partly hindered through state regulation. Given the option, many urban dwellers in Ghana have chosen to switch from the traditional means of urban transport to motor tricycles. This paper assesses the economic incentives responsible for the booming motor tricycle transportation in urban Ghana. It employs a quantitative approach to analyse a survey of owners, drivers and passengers of the tricycles, to ascertain the role of supply in the creation of the current demand. A probit regression technique was used to model and analyse the likelihood of owners supplying additional tricycles and to also assess factors that determine the choice between motor tricycles and traditional modes of urban transport in Ghana. The study found that owners of tricycles who had reliable riders were 96% more likely to acquire additional tricycles than invest in some composite commodity. Also, commuters chose the tricycle above the traditional modes of urban transport because it significantly reduced their travel time. In addition, riders of the tricycles obtained gainful employment, with monetary rewards worth more than 300% of what minimum wage earners receive in Ghana. Thus, the study validates Say’s Law at the microeconomic level. Therefore, the government of Ghana would need to formally legalize the use of the tricycles for urban transportation, and institute favourable regulations, which will sustain the demand for their services.
L' artisanat traditionnel dans la médina de Constantine : approche sur les effets de lieu et de milieu
Authors: MAZRI BENARIOUA Mouna
Published: March 2023

L’artisanat traditionnel représentatif des productions culturelles de la ville de Constantine est à exploiter comme avantage comparatif, en le débarrassant de son image poussiéreuse pour plutôt l’inscrire dans un cadre de réflexion, élargi sur l’économie culturelle et créative. De récentes recherches portant intérêt à la géographie de cette économie ont théorisé les logiques spatio-fonctionnelles auxquelles se soumettent les territoires de l’économie culturelle où préfigurent les concepts d’effets de lieu et de milieu. S’inscrivant dans un cadre de recherche où géographie économique et géographie culturelle se croisent, le présent article propose d’examiner la dimension urbaine de l’artisanat traditionnel de Constantine par l’analyse des effets précités à l’échelle de sa médina, territoire emblématique de cet artisanat. De quelle manière la médina se mobilise- t-elle pour la production artisanale, quels effets de lieu et de milieu exerce t- elle ?
Estimating the real exchange rate misalignment of the Algerian dinar during the period (1980-2019) : an empirical study (Arabic)
Authors: Madouri Abderezak
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to estimate the long-run Equilibrium Real Exchange Rate (ERER) and to assess the degree of misalignment of the Algerian Dinar for the period (1980-2019) using ARDL approach. Considering that the equilibrium exchange rate of the Algerian dinar is determined by a set of fundamentals of the national economy, the study reached the following main results: In the long run, there are positive relationships between the real effective exchange rate and the differential productivity, real oil price and net capital flows. Whereas, there are inverse relationships between the dependent variable and each of the trade openness, General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP). The second result is that the REER registered a number of deviations from its equilibrium level, that vary between overvaluation and undervaluation. The third result is that the exchange rate cannot be the only adjustment variable, given the extent of macroeconomic imbalances (internal and external). Parallel efforts at fiscal consolidation and deep structural reforms to diversify the economy and accelerate growth are also essential.
Waqf sukuks and the importance of its integration into the algerian economy –with reference to the New Zealand experience
Authors: Khoudja Alama Sofiane , Kaid Meriem
Published: March 2023

This study aims at clarifying the importance of integrating Waqf Sukuks in the algerian economy, and how to benefit from the New Zealand experience to develop endowments in Algeria, especially in light of the Algerian financial system's orientation towards islamic financial applications. By following the descriptive and analytical approach and limiting the study to the period from 2009 to 2020, a basic conclusion was reached that the use of Waqf Sukuks in Algeria as a financing and investment means leads to maximizing the income and benefits of endowments properties , thus enhancing their multi-dimensional role, especially that related to the economic and social development.
Institutional quality and foreign direct investment in arab countries: new evidence from dynamic panel estimation (Arabic)
Authors: Bergougui Ibrahim , Boudjana Réda , Zaimen Brahim
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we re-assess the nexus between various institutional indicators and foreign direct investment (FDI) flows in 16 Arab countries for the period (1985-2017) by employing the system Generalized Method of Moments. We contribute to existing literature in three ways: First, the impact of each institutional quality indicator on FDI flows is examined separately. Second, construct an institutional index in order to capture the overall impact of institutions on FDI. Finally, the paper also looks at the impact of the Arab Spring on FDI flows. Based on dynamic panel models, the empirical results show that some institutional indicators are more important than others in attracting more FDI in-flows. The results indicate that, the investment profile, law and order, and political institutions, lead to increased FDI flows. We also find a negative association between the Arab Spring unrest and FDI inflows.
Essai d’analyse du comportement des consommateurs algériens pendant la pandémie covid-19 : une analyse par la régression logistique
Authors: Douar Brahim , GUETTAB Djemai Wassim , Kalbaza Amel
Published: March 2023

Cet article a pour objectif d’analyser l’influence des facteurs économiques et comportementaux sur le comportement des consommateurs Algériens pendant la pandémie COVID-19. En effet, nous avons adopté un modèle conceptuel qui définit l’influence sur le comportement d’achat par deux types de facteurs, en l’occurrence le facteur économique et le facteur psychologique. Par la suite nous avons distribué un questionnaire, qui a été élaboré à partir du cadre conceptuel de la recherche, via internet. Nous avons collecté des données auprès des consommateurs Algériens analysées à travers la régression logistique. Nos résultats confirment l'hypothèse que la pandémie COVID-19 a induit des changements significatifs sur le comportement d'achat des consommateurs Algériens.
Offshoring software development: india/china choice a transaction costs perspective
Authors: Nemmiche Khadidja
Published: March 2023

The purpose of this paper is to interpret the decision to choose a country to entrust its service providers with the software development activity. Based on transaction cost theory, the cost measurement waxes derived from this theory are used to compare two competing countries in the Offshore market: India and China. Salary, ICT, language, trust and economic and institutional stability are the points of differentiation on which this study is based. By using an exploratory and a comparative study based on secondary data from different statistical sources, the study confirms that according to the TCT, India remains a more appropriate choice than China for client firms seeking to outsource software development activity. This paper is completely original and proposes a new research component that links TCT predictions with the country chosen as a part of Offshore’s strategy.
Assessment for acceptance of accounting, marketing and office technology management software applications for instructional delivery among business education lecturers in North-east Nigerian Universities
Authors: Hayatu Suleiman
Published: March 2023

This study aimed at assessing the acceptance of accounting, marketing and office technology management software applications for instructional delivery among business education lecturers in universities in North-eastern region of Nigeria. The study adopted descriptive survey design. The study used the constructs of the theory of planned behaviour. The population of the study comprises of 50 business education lecturers in the three universities that offer business education programme which are; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi, Modibbo Adama University Yola and University of Maiduguri. The entire population was used for the study. The instrument for data collection was a structured questionnaire. The instrument was validated by two experts from the department of vocational education, Modibbo Adama university, Yola. The reliability test of the instrument was conducted to determine its internal consistency after a pilot study conducted outside the area of the study. A reliability coefficient of 0.78 was obtained. The researcher together with one research assistant administered the instrument to the respondents manually. A total of 50 questionnaires were administered but only 43 were retrieved. The data collected were analyzed using mean, standard deviation and regression statistics. The finding of the study among others revealed that business education lecturers have accepted to use accounting, marketing and OTM software applications for instructions. The study therefore recommended among others that there is need proper utilization of these software applications among the lecturers for effective instructional delivery.