bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revolutionizing Healthcare
Authors: Fatima Areesha , C. Kishor Kumar Reddy , Sithole Thandiwe
Published: July 2024

Digital twin technology has emerged as a transformative force for healthcare in an age marked by technological progress. Various marketing strategies aimed at bringing digital twin technologies to the healthcare sector are explored in this chapter. Digital twins is a virtual model of a physical real-world product. Digital twins offer a revolutionary approach to the delivery of healthcare, enabling personalized treatment, predictive analysis, and remote monitoring. By analyzing market dynamics, defining target audiences, and creating value propositions, healthcare organizations can effectively support the benefits of digital twining. The research provides concrete steps to promote the effective use of digital twin technologies. The strategies for content marketing, social media engagement, and SEO alongside the importance of email marketing campaigns are highlighted. In addition, the importance of consumer success stories, regulatory compliance, and data-based measurements to ensure that marketing efforts are successful is emphasized.
Real-Time Patient Monitoring and Personalized Medicine With Digital Twins
Authors: Eswaran Ushaa , Eswaran Vivek , Murali Keerthna , Eswaran Vishal
Published: July 2024

The convergence of digital twin technology with healthcare, particularly in Healthcare 6.0, is transformative. This chapter explores the interplay between digital twins, real-time patient monitoring, and personalized medicine. It discusses how digital twins replicate biological systems for simulation and optimization, examines patient monitoring intricacies, and delves into personalized medicine's revolution within the digital twin framework. Through case studies, it highlights their impact on patient outcomes and workflows. Ethical considerations and regulatory imperatives are emphasized, with insights into future trends. This chapter guides stakeholders in leveraging digital twins for healthcare's future.
Digital Twins in Human Activity Prediction on Gait Using Extreme Gradient Boosting Local Binary Pattern
Authors: Singh Thakur Monika , Lippert Kari
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the development of digital twins. Digital twins have become a valuable tool in various fields, including healthcare, for predicting and analyzing human activity patterns. By utilizing the extension extreme gradient (XG) boosting local binary pattern (LBP) algorithm, digital twins can accurately predict human gait and provide valuable insights for healthcare professionals. In this chapter, the authors propose an innovative approach to predict human activities based on gait patterns using an extended XG boost model, enhanced with local binary patterns for feature extraction. The integration of extended XG boost, a highly efficient and interpretable machine learning algorithm, with local binary patterns, a robust technique for texture analysis, enables the extraction of discriminative features from gait data. The utilization of digital twins, specifically with the extension XG BOOST LBP algorithm, has proven to be a valuable tool in predicting and analyzing human gait.
Digital Twin Integration in Healthcare Marketing Enhancing Patient Experience and Operational Efficiency
Authors: Dubey Archi , Praveer Saket Ranjan , Baghel Dipti
Published: July 2024

In healthcare, digital twins transform marketing by understanding patient needs, optimizing resources, and tailoring campaigns. This chapter explores integrating digital twins into marketing, leveraging them to understand patient behaviors and preferences. The Kano model was used to understand the customer expectation, experience, and excitement towards satisfaction which will further leads to developing the marketing strategy for digital twin healthcare sector. It identifies benefits, challenges, and best practices for implementation. Digital twins enable personalized campaigns and optimize resource allocation, leading to improved engagement and satisfaction. This research aims to advance the understanding of how digital twins can transform healthcare provision and enhance patient well-being, ultimately driving improvements in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes
Optimized Attention-Driven Bidirectional Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Mahalakshmi T. , Zulaikha Beevi S. (fd7ea200-e5dd-486b-a51e-c890c3ea80ea  , Navaneethakrishnan M. , Ramya Puppala , Kumar Sanjay Nakharu Prasad
Published: July 2024

This paper devises an optimization-based technique for sentiment analysis using the set of reviews. The major processes involved for the developed sentiment analysis approach are tokenization and sentiment classification. Initially, the input reviews are considered from the database and are subjected to the tokenization process. The tokenization process is performed using Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformer (BERT) where the input review data is partitioned into individual words, named as tokens. Finally, sentiment classification is carried out using Attention-based Bidirectional CNN-RNN Deep Model (ABCDM), which is trained by proposed Chimp Deer Hunting Optimization (CDHO) approach. Accordingly, the proposed CDHO algorithm is newly designed by incorporating Chimp Optimization Algorithm (ChOA) and Deer Hunting Optimization Algorithm (DHOA). The proposed CDHO-based ABCDM provided enhanced performance with highest precision of 93.5%, recall of 94.5% and F-measure of 94%.
Exploring the Factors Affecting College Students' Intention to Use Online Teaching Platforms Through an Extended Technology Acceptance Model
Authors: Zhang Xuefeng , Huang Yelin , Chen Mingshuang , Wang Fenglian
Published: July 2024

Online teaching platforms (OTPs) are becoming important mediums for supporting college students in course learning activities. Their intention to use is critical for promoting learning effectiveness, efficiency, and continuous development of OTPs. Drawing upon the technology acceptance model (TAM), this study builds the research model of students' intention to use the OTPs with consideration of platform characteristics and social influence. The PLS-SEM method is employed to analyze 194 responses from students at a university. The results show that perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, and social influence positively influence students' intention to use. Perceived ease of use positively affects perceived usefulness. In addition, social influence is positively related to perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness, respectively. The study extends the TAM model by incorporating social influence to promote it relevant to the context of OTPs. The findings offer insights that universities and OTP providers could adopt to promote the use of OTPs by students.
Application of Clustering Algorithm in the Evaluation of College Students' English Reading Ability Under the Framework of Big Data
Authors: Wang Yanhui
Published: July 2024

In recent years, China has accelerated the process of internationalization and made more and more achievements in transnational communication and cooperation. English learning is very important for contemporary college students. And English reading is an important means to acquire English language knowledge, understand external information and improve English language practice ability. Therefore, cultivating college students' English reading ability is a pivotal element in college English teaching. This study will focus on the application of clustering algorithm based on big data framework in the evaluation of college students' English reading ability, aiming at exploring and establishing an effective evaluation model to promote the improvement of college students' English reading ability and academic achievement.
Enhancing Mechanical Properties with Water Hyacinth Fiber-Reinforced Bio-Based Epoxy Composites
Authors: Sumrith Naruemon , Bhuwakiatkhamjorn Nipon , Keawked Kittipat , Iamim Paweenvat , Ngaowthong Chakaphan
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this research is to examine how the size and quantity of water hyacinth (WH) fibers impact their reinforcement of bio-based epoxy resin, with a specific focus on how these factors influence mechanical properties. The study involves utilizing specimens containing WH fiber particle sizes of 100 µm and 500 µm, combined with varying proportions of 10%, 20%, and 30% by volume. The application of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) as a chemical treatment for the fibers enhances the mechanical characteristics of the composite. The results indicate that the tensile modulus of 30WH100 exceeds that of neat epoxy by roughly 17.6%. Noteworthy is the hardness value of 10WH100 at 99.73 HRL, compared to the value of 99.98 HRL seen in neat epoxy. This implies minor differences in hardness properties across the obtained results.
Performance of the Mechanical and Durability Properties of Eco-Friendly Concrete Containing Glass Powder (GP) and Ground Granulated Blast Slag (GGBS)
Authors: Vasudevan Gunalaan , Muniyandi Shantha Kumari , Kanniyapan Gunavathy , Hock Lim Eng
Published: July 2024

This study uses varying percentages of glass powder (GP) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) as partial replacements for Portland cement to investigate their effects on the behavior of the concrete’s mechanical and durability properties. Due to the adverse environmental impacts of cement manufacturing, there have been efforts to replace cement with supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to reduce cement consumption while enhancing concrete performance. This study evaluates the effects of adding varying percentages of silica fume (SF) and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) on the mechanical and durability properties of the modified concrete. It also evaluates their compressive, tensile, and flexural strength and conducts the Initial Surface Absorption Test (ISAT), carbonation test, and microstructure analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The research variables are partial cement replacement with varying percentages of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% of different pozzolanic materials. The water-cement ratio in this experiment is 0.53.
Increasing Concrete Durability Against Organic Acid Corrosion with Coal Fly Ash and Bagasse Fly Ash as Cement Replacements
Authors: Koschanin Jensak , Julphunthong Phongthorn
Published: July 2024

The deterioration of concrete from acid corrosion is a common issue in various industrial and natural environments. To address this problem, coal fly ash and bagasse fly ash were utilized as cement replacements in concrete. This study investigates the effects of these ashes on concrete's ability to withstand organic acid corrosion in depth, including a thorough examination of their chemical compositions, physical properties, and interactions within the concrete matrix. Furthermore, the research involves adjusting the blend proportions to provide exceptional resistance to acid corrosion. The results of the study highlight the significance of coal fly ash and bagasse fly ash in improving concrete's resistance to organic acid corrosion. The use of these materials as cement replacements significantly enhances concrete's resistance to organic acid corrosion, and this improvement becomes more apparent as substitution rates increase. This effect is primarily attributed to increased pozzolanic reactivity, resulting in a reduction in calcium hydroxide concentration within the cement matrix.
Estimating the Deterioration due to Chemical Attack in Repurposed Aggregate Concrete Using Image Based Techniques
Authors: Pancharathi Rathish Kumar , Kasulanati Madhavi Latha
Published: July 2024

The increased construction activities necessitate use of alternate material resources as recycled aggregates in construction. The decreased quality of concrete during the recycling process can be modified by several methods of which, strengthening the aggregate skeleton in the volume of concrete is an ideal option. In the present work, Compressible Packing Model (CPM) of particle packing methodologies is adopted for aggregate gradation and design of concrete mixes. Hardened and durability properties of a 30 MPa concrete designed using CPM method is being investigated. The deterioration in concrete is analysed using Image analysis. The Hue, Saturation and Intensity are the parameters picked from the surface images of concrete cubes exposed to four chemical species viz., HCl, H2SO4, NaCl and MgSO4 for 28 days. CPM method improves the properties of multi recycled concrete with increased packing density of recycled aggregate. The image-based deterioration studies provided a new insight into estimating the durability performance of concrete subjected to attack of various chemical species.
Exploring Stone Material Behavior and Damage Analysis with Digital Image Correlation
Authors: Daher Mohamad , El Zein Abdulrahman , Brunetaud Xavier , Gillibert Jean , Beck Kévin
Published: July 2024

This article presents a study of the mechanical behavior of tuffeau, a porous building limestone. Previous studies were focused on using strain gauges for mechanical monitoring with some limited success due to the size and the local nature of the measurement. The Digital Image Correlation (DIC) method has proven to be a valuable tool for noncontact, full-field strain measurements in various materials, including rocks which are natural and heterogeneous materials. After a prior phase of optimization involving texture acquisition and lighting conditions, this paper compares several DIC software programs to achieve consistent results on soft limestone specimens. Once the DIC program is chosen, a focus is made on detecting heterogeneities in the stone specimens. The occurrence of such heterogeneities explains why strain gauge measurement sometimes fails when applied to soft and natural materials.
Impact of Organizational Injustice on Migration Intention of Skilled Workforce in Sri Lanka with the Moderation of Job Embeddedness
Authors: Mayuran L. , Thasika T. , Vibeeshana V.
Published: July 2024

Sri Lanka has always been a breeding ground for prosperous migrants, and in recent decades, millions of Sri Lankans have left the country either permanently or temporarily in search of work.  Thus, this research aims to examine how organizational injustice affects migration intentions and how job embeddedness influences the relationship between organizational injustice and migration intentions. The current study adds to the body of knowledge by examining Job embeddedness as a moderator and connecting organizational injustice with migratory aspirations in a developing, non-Western country (Sri Lanka) in a new context. This study surveyed the individuals who are labelled as skilled workforce currently employed. From 230 questionnaires distributed, 200 responses were received. The study found organizational injustice and migration intention-desire are positively correlated.  The effects of job embeddedness on organizational injustice and migration intention were found to interact significantly. It was discovered that participants' intentions to migrate and organizational unfairness were negatively impacted by their higher Job embeddedness scores.
Serologic evidence of Zika virus, hepatitis B virus and rubella virus in pregnant women attending a south-west based Nigerian tertiary care centre An enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay based study
Authors: Adekola H. A. , Fallatah D. I. , Oyesanya O. A. , Amusan A. T. , Onajobi I. B. , Samson O. J. , Popoola O. D. , Egberongbe H. O.
Published: July 2024

This study investigated serological evidence for Zika, hepatitis B and rubella virus infection in 92 pregnant women attending a south-west based Nigerian tertiary care centre from January to May 2023. Of the 92 samples, 31 (33.7%), 14 (15.2%), and 90 (97.8%) exhibited seropositivity for Zika, hepatitis B, and rubella virus respectively. Cases of co-positives were also reported, with 28.3% seropositive for both Zika and rubella virus, 10.9% for hepatitis B and rubella virus, and 4.3% for all three viruses. The findings of this study underscore that a considerable portion of participants are susceptible to Zika and hepatitis B virus. Conversely, the majority of the participants appeared to be protected against rubella virus. This study strongly advocates initiation of public awareness campaigns and formulation of vaccination policies targeting women of reproductive age. Such measures are crucial for countering viral infections which could harm the developing foetus and give rise to pregnancy-related complications.
Emerging potential therapies for chronic abdominal visceral pain: an overview
Authors: Rekatsina Martina , Varrassi Giustino
Published: July 2024

Despite advancements in pain medicine, management of chronic abdominal visceral discomfort remains a substantial concern for both patients and physicians. Standard pharmacological treatment fails to produce meaningful therapeutic outcomes. As a result, researchers are working on identifying additional modulable targets. Among others, specific receptors (serotonin, α2 adrenergic, cholecystokinin), as well as transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 channel, calcitonin gene-related peptide, mitogen-activated protein kinase and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis have been proposed as specific targets. Identification of genetic polymorphisms also plays a significant role. In this narrative review, which follows the SANRA criteria, we aimed to present the latest developments of the past five years, in visceral analgesia, without focusing on established pain management modalities. Cannabinoid receptor 2 agonists, high-dose inhaled salbutamol, μ-opioid receptors agonist in acidified microenvironment, 5-HT 4 receptor-antagonist, pomegranate mesocarp, guanylate cyclase-C agonists, assembled system of molecules of vegetal origin, monoclonal antibodies against calcitonin gene-related peptide receptors, palmitoylethanolamide, as well as polydatin micro-RNA based treatments have a possible role in the management of abdominal visceral pain. However, more research is needed because the majority of the findings are based on animal models of visceral pain or preliminary human investigations.
A unique case of calcinosis in a patient with systemic sclerosis treated with spinal cord stimulation
Authors: Giglio Mariateresa , Corriero Alberto , Preziosa Angela , Varrassi Giustino , Puntillo Filomena
Published: July 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a complex autoimmune disease presenting with a wide organ-manifestation. One out of three patients with SS is affected by calcinosis, i.e. the deposition of apatite in soft tissue. The association between digital ulcers and calcinosis suggests a role of tissue hypoxia and inflammation in its pathogenesis. Treatment of SSc related ulcers and calcinosis includes immunosuppressive agents, autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation, calcium channel blockers, phosphodiesterase 5 inhibitors iloprost or bosentan. Different reports provided promising results about the effect of spinal cord stimulation in the management of digital ulcers, in terms of pain relief and improvement in microcirculation. None of these reports describe the possibility to retrieve calcinosis around the epidural catheter or the pulse generator. The present case report describes a unique case of calcinosis distributed around the pulse generator in a patient with SSc and digital ulcers.
Prognostic importance of the systemic inflammatory index and the systemic inflammatory response index in COVID-19 patients
Authors: Topal Alikemal , Yarkaç Akif , Bozkurt Seyran Bozkurt , Buyurgan Çağrı Safa , Köse Ataman , Erdoğan Semra
Published: July 2024

COVID-19 can cause a wide range of effects on patients, from asymptomatic cases to mortality. Many factors can affect the prognosis of the disease. Our study aims to evaluate the predictive power of the Systemic Inflammatory Index (SII) and Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI) in determining prognosis and mortality in patients. Patients who tested positive for COVID-19 by polymerase chain reaction and presented to the emergency department of Merin Hospital between September 1, 2020, and August 31, 2021, were included in the study. The data of the patients were retrospectively analyzed. A total of 446 patients were included in our study. The rate of patients with severe disease was 55.6%, and the mortality rate was 30.5%. It was found that mortality increased with age (p<0.001). SII and SIRI levels were found to be higher in patients who died or had severe disease (p<0.001). It was determined that the severity level increased in COVID-19 patients when the SIRI value was above 1.648 (p<0.0001, AUC=0.689), and the mortality rate increased when the SIRI value was above 2.057 (p<0.0001, AUC=0.640). It was determined that the severity level increased in COVID-19 patients when the SII value was above 867.834 (p<0.0001, AUC=0.744), and the mortality rate increased when it was above 1370.353 (p<0.0001, AUC=0.682). In patients diagnosed with COVID-19, it was found that SII and SIRI parameters could predict the severity and mortality of the disease. Further comprehensive studies are needed to determine the future roles of these indices.
Exploring the relationship between maternal parenting styles and stunting prevention behaviors in children aged 3-5 years
Authors: Ningsih Arum Dwi , Yuswatiningsih Endang , Prasetyaningati Dwi
Published: July 2024

Indonesia, as a developing country, continues to grapple with various nutritional challenges, with stunting among toddlers being a significant concern. According to Nutritional Status Monitoring data from the past three years, stunting has the highest prevalence compared to other issues such as undernutrition, underweight, and obesity. Stunting reflects inhibited growth owing to insufficient nutrient intake. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between parenting styles and behaviors aimed at preventing stunting in children aged 3-5 years. Employing a correlational analysis with a cross-sectional research design, the study surveyed 128 respondents. Maternal parenting styles were assessed using questionnaires with parameters for authoritarian, democratic, and permissive approaches, while stunting prevention behaviors were evaluated using questionnaires covering cognitive, affective, and conative aspects. Analysis revealed that most respondents exhibited a democratic parenting style (52 respondents, 41%), and most demonstrated good stunting prevention behaviors (58 respondents, 45%). The Spearman test yielded a p-value of 0.000, indicating a significant relationship. Therefore, enhancing parents' understanding of proper parenting practices is crucial for preventing stunting in children aged 3-5 years.
Warranty Repairs Reimagined through Machine Learning and Statistical
Pattern Recognition (Part 1)
Authors: Hand Jody , Hall Sawyer , Carr Michael , Worm Jeremy
Published: July 2024

The automotive industry has been funding warranty repair work for many decades.
The most common vehicle warranty is 3 years or 36,000 miles [1]. Original equipment manufacturers (OEM)
in North America have dealers record all the work completed and submit claims
for the work that qualifies for warranty reimbursement [2]. The OEM reviews the request and pays dealers for the
work performed. In addition to payments, the database is also used to complete
quality analysis for the vehicles. Often the software being used by dealerships
is old and not designed for quality analysis. Reviewing all the warranty work
done can be an arduous task. OEMs can receive 100,000 or more claims each day.
To speed up the analysis process the OEMs will divide the repair work into
sections based on the segment of the vehicle requiring work. This categorization
allows the OEMs to spread the work across many experts in the company. But what
does the OEMs do when the problem cannot be located at the dealership? The
dealer still requires payment for the time they spent trying to find the issue.
This is often categorized as TNF (trouble not found). This type of work without
a resolution can account for a sizable percentage of warranty costs! It can be
as high as 38% depending on the manufacturer. It can also affect customer
satisfaction and customer loyalty. In fact, one of the most common complaints
submitted to NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) is “dealer
unable to locate problem” [3]. To make
matters worse, most customers end up returning to the dealer multiple times
before the issue is, if ever, located, and fixed [4]. So how can we find a better way to analyze these warranty claims
and improve the customer experience while decreasing the cost for the OEM? This
problem can be improved through machine learning and statistical pattern
analysis.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the appointments and anxiety level of Nigerian patients visiting the dental clinics
Authors: Olabimpe Soyoye , Tope Adeyemi , Olayinka Otuyemi , Dada Fadeju , Enone Lillian , Omotoyosi Lawal , Ukachi Nnawuihe , Afolake Salami , Olawale Sotunde
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The epidemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), originating in Wuhan, China, has become a major public health challenge for many countries around the world, including Nigeria. The World Health Organization announced that the outbreaks of the novel coronavirus have constituted a public health emergency of international concern. To control the spread of the disease, many countries, including Nigeria imposed measures such as border screening, social distancing and restriction of all movements. To prevent further spread of the disease, in many places, dentists were restricted to only handling urgencies and emergencies.
Aim: To evaluate the impact of lockdown resulting from COVID-19 pandemic on patients’ willingness to attend their dental appointments, clarify their concerns about their ongoing dental treatment, and to assess the anxiety level of patients regarding the risk of contracting the infection at dental offices in Nigeria.
Method: The study was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out among patients aged 13 years and above, visiting dental clinics in six teaching hospitals across three geopolitical zones of Nigeria: South-West, South-South and North-West.
Result: Few (26.6%) of the participants were compliant with the lockdown restriction. Regarding the general anxiety level of the patients, majority (48.3%) reported calmness. There was a highly statistically significant association between patients’ feeling about the pandemic and their willingness to attend a dental appointment visit.
Conclusion: Majority of the participants demonstrated calmness towards the pandemic and did not exhibit fear or anxiety going to dental clinics during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Keywords: COVID-19; dental appointments; anxiety level.
Estimating the under-five malaria risk in Uganda based on the nearest neighbour matched analysis technique
Authors: Natuhamya Charles
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Malaria still remains a global burden especially in the under-five despite efforts made towards reducing it. The most recommended vector control methods are; use of insecticide treated nets (ITNs) or long lasting insecticide nets (LLINs) and use of indoor residual spraying (IRS). However, these innovations may not have the same effect on malaria risk in the under-five. This study therefore aimed at assessing; the effect of ITNs/LLINs on malaria risk, the effect of IRS on malaria risk, and the effect of ITNs/LLINs on IRS, using nearest neighbours matched analysis.
Methods: Nearest neighbour matched analysis was used to match the treated and control units by taking each treated unit and searching for the control unit with the nearest neighbours without replacement.
Results: The results revealed a significant and negative effect of ITNs/LLINs and IRS on malaria risk [ATET=-0.05; 95% CI= -0.07 – -0.02] and [ATET=-0.12; 95% CI= -0.15 – -0.09] respectively. It also found a significant and positive effect of ITNs/LLINs on IRS [ATET=0.03; 95% CI= 0.01 – 0.05].
Conclusions: The implementation of policies and programs towards effective use of ITN/LLIN and IRS can reduce the burden of under-five malaria in Uganda.
Keywords: Indoor residual spraying; insecticide treated nets; long lasting insecticide nets; Malaria; nearest neighbour matching; treatment effects; Uganda.
Utilisation of immediate and early postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices among adolescents in Mbale City, Eastern Uganda
Authors: Alupo Priscilla , Nteziyaremye Julius , Chalo Nabirye Rose , VN Ssenyonga Lydia , R Adongo Pamella , Epuitai Joshua , Mbwali Immaculate
Published: July 2024

Background: Uganda is predominantly a young adolescent population and has a very high (74%) rapid repeat adolescent pregnancy (RRAP) rate. The utilisation of immediate and early postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices (PPIUCD) is the most effective strategy to immensely abate the medical and social consequences associated with adolescent pregnancies.
Objectives: To determine the prevalence and factors influencing the utilisation of immediate and early PPIUCD among adolescents in Mbale City, Eastern Uganda.
Methods: We used a cross sectional study design with quantitative and qualitative methods. Interviewer administered pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to interview a sample of 422 participants. Eight key informant interviews were conducted to explore the perceived enablers and barriers to use of immediate and early PPIUCD. Qualitative data was analyzed using deductive thematic analysis.
Results: The prevalence of immediate and early PPIUCD utilisation was 2.4% (10/422). Inadequate adolescent knowledge, inadequate mentorship training of health care providers, equipment and infrastructure and myths and misconceptions were perceived to limit uptake of immediate and early PPIUCD.
Conclusion: The prevalence of immediate and early PPIUCD utilisation was very low. In-service training of health care workers and effective counseling of adolescents may correct the perceived myths and misconceptions thus increasing uptake of immediate and early PPIUCD.
Keywords: Immediate and early postpartum intrauterine contraceptive devices; rapid repeat adolescent pregnancies; postpartum adolescents; key informants; Mbale City.
A National survey describing the quality of care in Paediatric Emergency Departments of Tertiary Hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: OA Enyuma Callistus , E Laher Abdullah , Moolla Muhammed , Feroza Motara , Olorunfemi Gbenga
Published: July 2024

Introduction: The outcome of paediatric emergency care is essential to the attainment of child-targeted sustainable development goals. We assessed the quality of paediatric emergency care among 34 tertiary Paediatric Emergency Departments (PED) in Nigeria.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional process audit of recruited 34 PEDs in Nigeria. A paper questionnaire developed from the validated AAP/IFEM Guidelines for Care of Children in the ED was used to collect information on the PED settings, the processes of care and measurable patient outcome. Association between the regions, hospital volume category and other institutional attributes was conducted using chi-square,
Results: The median (IQR) of paediatric visits and admissions to PEDs were 187.5 (120 - 300) and 107.5 (67 - 131) respectively. Over two-thirds (73.6 %,) of the PEDs had no set target Time-To-Physician consultation and the median (IQR) Length-of-Hospital Stay was 48 (0-72) hours.The majority of centres (90%) had patient safety tools but point-of-care-diagnostics (POCDs) were grossly deficient (23.5%). The mean protocol utilization score was 8.7 out of a maximum score of 34.The national crude death rate was 33.8 per 1000 children and there was no statistically significant relationship between the crude death rate and volume of hospital visits, (p-value=0.45) or geopolitical zones (p-value = 0.68).
Conclusion: There was nationwide poor protocol utilization and non-availability of POCDs coupled with a high mortality rate at the PEDs. Development and utilization of locally relevant protocols and improvement in the availability of POCDs are essential.
Keywords: Paediatrics; Emergency Department; Nigeria; quality of care; National survey.
The impact of introducing The impact of introducing diagnostic and therapeutic upper endoscopy in an ambulatory Surgery Center in Rural Eastern Uganda diagnostic and therapeutic upper endoscopy in an ambulatory Surgery Center in Rural Eastern Uganda
Authors: Marnie Abeshouse Marnie Abeshouse , Zhang Linda , Horn Callie , T Yu Allen , Binoga Bakaleke Moses , Giibwa Angellica , Haik B Daniel , L Marin Michael , D Waye Jerome , Okello Damoi Joseph
Published: July 2024

Background: The availability of upper endoscopy (UE) is limited in many rural low- and middle-income countries (LMIC). Few studies have evaluated use of elective endoscopies to address esophago-gastric diseases in remote Eastern Uganda.
Objective: This research assesses the impact of introducing UE on diagnosing gastrointestinal diseases endemic to the area.
Methods: This is a retrospective, cross sectional, single center study evaluating patients who received elective UE from Kyabirwa Surgical Center in rural Eastern Uganda, between 2020 to 2022. Primary outcome variables were presenting symptoms, endoscopic diagnoses and respective treatments.
Results: 350 endoscopies were performed for 333 patients, (1:1 male-to-female ratio, average age 48). Abnormalities were found on endoscopy in 73% of patients, revealing diagnoses of esophageal cancer (16.4%, N=64), gastritis (16.7%, N=65), hiatal hernia (8.7%, N=34), esophagitis (7.4%, N=29), ulcer (6.2%, N=24), and candidiasis (5.1%, N=20). Most patients presented with epigastric pain alone (40%, N=133) or dysphagia (39%, N=130). 51% of patients with dysphagia had esophageal cancer on endoscopy, of which 28.1% had an interval palliative stent placed.
Conclusions: The introduction of UE into a rural LMICs is possible and can verify baseline prevalence of endemic upper gastrointestinal diseases. Confirmation of diagnosis by endoscopy can direct medical management and interventional therapy.
Keywords: Diagnostic and therapeutic upper endoscopy; ambulatory surgery center; rural Eastern Uganda.
Quality of life among drug-resistant tuberculosis patients on treatment in SouthWest Nigeria
Authors: Bamidele Janet , Abiodun Olumide , Sodeinde Kolawole , Bitto Terkaa , Alabi Adekunle , Akinleye Callistus , Adejumo Olusola , Daniel Olusoji
Published: July 2024

Background: Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) continues to be a public health concern. Several factors, including the disease itself, affect the quality of life of DR-TB patients. This study aimed to assess the quality of life (QOL) and associated factors of drug-resistant tuberculosis patients in Nigeria.
Methods: A cross-sectional study of 165 participants using an interviewer-administered 26-item World Health Organization Quality of life Brief version (WHOQOL-BREF) tool. Two questions assessed overall quality of life and general health while twenty-four questions assessed the physical, social, psychological and environmental domains of QOL. Continuous variables were summarized using means, standard deviations while association between categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square test. Binary logistic regression model assessed the predictors of QOL with statistical significance at p<0.05
Results: Mean age was 35.63 ± 11.36. The overall quality of life was 3.96±0.82. The environmental domain had the highest mean quality of life (64.9±14.6), while the physical domain had the lowest (59.2±11.2). Marital status, family size, and support from the TB programme were associated with a good QOL.
Conclusion: Overall quality of life was good. Continued financial and social support for drug-resistant tuberculosis patients on treatment by the national tuberculosis control programme is recommended.
Keywords: Drug-resistant tuberculosis; quality of life; Nigeria.
Policy brief on youth tailor made drug prevention programs in Kenya
Authors: Lelei Kirwa , Njenga Adrian , Muteti John
Published: July 2024

No abstract
International Election Observers’ Perception of Nigeria’s 2023 General Election: Lessons for 2027
Authors: Nwankwo Chinemerem , Dode Robert
Published: July 2024

The centrality of the role of election observers in an election is underscored by their tendency for non-partisan and non-interventionist observation. Added to that is their impartial assessment of the whole exercise – as reflected in their post-election reports. If anything, independent international election observers’ reports tend to confer some form of political legitimacy on elected government officials. Nigeria’s 2023 general election cycle was not different as an appreciable number of domestic and foreign election observers participated actively in it. This paper, therefore, sets out to assess how international observers perceived the 2023 general elections, with a view to highlighting key areas that must be kept in focus ahead of the next election cycle in 2027. Drawing from the norm of international election monitoring, the paper argued that the role of international election observers in Nigeria – along with their post-election reports – would remain ceremonial for as long as pseudo-democrats remain in power. Baseline data constituted the primary sources of information for the paper, and analysis was done qualitatively. The paper recommended, among other things, that the international community should (collectively) investigate elections scored low by international observers and thereafter, perpetrators can be sanctioned accordingly. That way, the work of international election observers would cease to be considered actions in futility.
Local Councils in the Gambia: Exploring the Influence of Leadership on Performance
Authors: Ogbeta Oghenekevwe
Published: July 2024

This study examined the effect of leadership on local council performance in The Gambia, with three objectives focused on understanding leadership roles, evaluating their effects, and examining leadership challenges. The study adopted a survey research approach; data were collected from a sample of 384 individuals out of 408,284. Rigorous data analysis methods, including correlation analysis, multiple, and simple regression, were employed. The findings reveal a substantial and statistically significant positive correlation (r = 0.797) between leadershiproles and local council performance, supported by a low p-value (.000), emphasizing the significance of effective leadership in local governance. Multiple regression analysis further illustrates that higher values of certain predictor variables (CH and IM) are associated with improved performance. In comparison, higher values of IS are linked to decreased performance, underlining the diverse factors influencing local council performance. Additionally, a simple regression analysis highlights a significant negative relationship between leadership challenges (CoL) and local council performance, emphasizing the urgent need to address these challenges.In conclusion, this study underscores the vital role of effective leadership, the relevance of specific predictor variables, and the urgency of addressing leadership challenges to enhance local council performance and governance effectiveness in The Gambia.
Personality Trait, Gender and Substance Use as Predictors of Antisocial Behaviour among Undergraduates in Ebonyi State University, Abakaliki
Authors: Eze Eze , Onwe Friday , Nwonyi Sampson , Oselebe Cherish , Diogu Albert
Published: July 2024

The manner at which the youths of nowadays engage in self-defeating antisocial behaviour have becomes overwhelming. While it is generally hypothesized that due to the high rate and accessibility of illicit substances of self-destruction peddled across Nigeria, antisocial behaviour is inevitable. This study set out to specifically find out if personality traits, gender and substanceuse predicted antisocial behaviour among undergraduates. The study was anchored on Moffitt’s Developmental Theory. Simple random sampling technique (hand picking) was used in selecting One hundred and fifty (150) participants comprising of (61) male and (89) female undergraduates of Ebonyi State University Abakaliki. Participant’s ages ranged from 16 years to 35 years, with a mean age of 20.46 (M = 20.46; SD = 3.16). The study adopted the Cross-sectional survey design and Hierarchical Multiple Regression was the main statistics used in the study. Three hypotheses were formulated and tested. Three instruments were used in the study. They are; Big Five Inventory, Antisocial Behaviour Scale (ABS) and Drug Use Questionnaire (DAST – 20). Result showed that the five personality traits extraversion (β = .06, p> .05), agreeableness (β = .03, p> .05), conscientiousness (β = -.05, p> .05), neuroticism (β = -.01, p> .05) and openness to experience (β = .06, p> .05) were not significant predictors of antisocial behavior. Gender and substance use did not significantly predict antisocial behavior of undergraduates. The study concludes that antisocial behaviour among undergraduates could be caused by other factors that may interact with the variables studied. We recommend that factors such as social influence, frustration and modeling in relation to antisocial behaviour among youths should be explored in further research as they may be interfering with the variables studied in producing antisocial behaviour among undergraduates.
Political Parties and the Matrix of Social Media War in Nigeria
Authors: Elem Obona , Okeh Kingsley , Umoke Elijah
Published: July 2024

The use of social media has taken over all aspects of socio, economic, political, educational and cultural space. This has enabled all sorts of competitions in the social media, thereby turning it to media war among the contenders. Politically, political parties in Nigeria adopted significantly the use of social media as its major source of its campaign to woo the electorates to their parties. This study focused on political parties and the matrix of media war in Nigeria and the challenges it imposed to the electorates. The specific objectives include: to determine if social media war of political parties in their political campaigns is a challenge to the electorates in determining the political party to register as members; to find out if social media has made it difficult for the electorates in choosing the candidates to vote for during elections, and to determine if social media war by political parties play any role in determining voters turn out during elections. This study is anchored on agenda setting theory as its theoretical framework of analysis, while survey research design was adopted, making use of primary sources of data. Population of 2, 673,340 was used with a sample size of 400, determined with the application of Taro Yameni Mathematical Formula. The study applied stratified sampling technique as research questions and hypotheses raised to guide the work were tested using Chi Square. Findings show that social media war by political parties imposed challenge to the electorates in determining the political parties to belong to, and vote for as well as turn out during elections. The study recommends among others, that political parties should create a robust and effective social media presence to inform and educate the electorates and woo them to their parties.
Poverty Reduction in Nigeria: A Religious Imperative
Authors: Iroanya Alozie
Published: July 2024

The study explores the incidence of poverty in Nigeria which harbors some devastating manifestations in the search for national cohesion and sustainable development. The manifestations include: lack of adequate food and nutrition, high rates of unemployment, high infant and maternal mortality. This poses the danger of compromising the harmony of the future that would reinforce the elements of disintegrative tendencies such as conflict shocks, coup d’état, brain drain, and child labor. The failure of government to alleviate poverty in Nigeria calls for every sector of society especially Faith Based Organizations (FBOs) in creating innovative new programs and partnerships in communities around the country. Hence, poverty reduction in Nigeria has become a religious imperative of humankind. Accordingly, is action for poverty reduction an integral part of living the faith? Therefore, this study intends to demonstrate how FBOs have evolved informed interventions in basic health, education, and agricultural inputs to reduce poverty pervading the nation’s development agenda. This study will achieve this objective by focusing on the structural functional theory of religion using descriptive phenomenological method. The finding reveals that reducing poverty is achievable through socio-economic and institutional reforms, reduction of corruption, conflict shocks, and by making poor people to directly participate in, contributes to and benefit from growth processes. The study recommends that the war against poverty should be intensified through national ethical values and good governance. This will ultimately bring about social stability, sustainable development, and equitable distribution of resources.
Communal Crisis and Psychological Trauma of Victims of Ezza/Ezillo Communal War in Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: Eze Ogbonnia , Nwonyi Sampson , Oselebe Chisom
Published: July 2024

Communal crisis dislocates sources of livelihood while the psychological consequences has been debilitating. Psychological distress experienced during communal conflict dislocates a persons’ integral psychological wellbeing leading to psychological trauma. This study is a narrative inquiry of the experiences of psychological trauma underwent by victims of Ezza/Ezillo communal crisis in Ebonyi State. The principal objective was to investigate if there are elements of psychological trauma in the experiences of the participants. The study adopted the qualitative narrative approach because narrative inquiries have the strength to expose silenced voices like those of war victims. The narrators comprised of 20 communal war victims who experienced the Ezza/Ezillo communal crisis who were sampled through purposive and convenience sampling technique. The study was anchored on John Bowlby’s and Mary Ainsworth attachment theory. Narrative content analysis was conducted and results revealed that participants made sense of their experience of the crisis using knowledge that resembled those of psychological trauma. Such experiences included but not limited to a loss of sense of self, nightmares and flashback memories, feeling of disconnection from the world, sleepless nights, feeling disoriented, disorganized and confused, having problem of concentration, feeling of helplessness and suppressed emotions. Narrative analysis in the study further revealed that the experiences affected their overall wellbeing and made them at some point to have suicide ideation. Conclusion was made that the communal war the participants experienced affected their overall psychological wellbeing such that they made sense of their experience of war with knowledge that coincided with those of psychological trauma. Recommendations were made some of which included that the victims of the Ezza/Ezillo communal war required both psychological and financial intervention to help ameliorate their sufferings. Such intervention was expected from Federal government, State government, Non-governmental organizations and other Agencies.