bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge, attitude and practices towards seasonal influenza vaccination among healthcare workers
Authors: Padmanabhan Arjun , Abraham Sujith Varghese , Koul Parvaiz A.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Vaccination as a primary prevention strategy is a well-established public health policy for preventing influenza. Despite strong recommendation, vaccination coverage among health workers is still not satisfying. The intention of the current study is to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes and practices towards influenza vaccination among healthcare workers.

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional, single-centre study, 789 healthcare workers (out of total 1380) participated. Institutional ethical committee clearance was obtained before the study. It was conducted in October 2021. A structured questionnaire in the form of Google sheet was sent to all healthcare professionals (HCPs) affiliated with the institution. Data collected was tabulated using MS Excel and analysed using appropriate statistical tools.

Results:

Of the 1380 approached, a total of 789 (57.17%) HCPs responded to the questionnaire. The overall vaccination coverage in the study population was 71.6%. The overall vaccination acceptance rate drops to 36.78% when those taken vaccine as a recommended pre-employment requisite and got never vaccinated again were excluded. Also, 88.21% of the respondents believed that influenza is a potentially dangerous disease and 93.16% believed that flu vaccination is effective against preventing influenza. Although 736 participants (93.28%) were aware that seasonal influenza vaccine is recommended for healthcare workers, irrespective of age and comorbidities, only 411 (52.1%) intended to take vaccine in the coming year. Also, 97.34% of the participants considered vaccine as safe.

Conclusion:

Influenza vaccination coverage among healthcare workers is still at an unsatisfactory level. This is despite majority of the HCPs accepting that the vaccine is safe and preventive against influenza. Efforts are still needed to improve the coverage.
Efficacy and safety of glycopyrronium/formoterol delivered via a dry powder inhaler in patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Salvi Sundeep , Kumar Anand , Agrawal Sumit , Leuva Amritlal , Shukla Vineet Kumar , Deshpande Shrikant Vishnu , Balamurugan Santhalingam , Singh Ajit , Tikkiwal Sharad , Gupta Sandeep K. , Singh Bhanu Pratap , Lopez Meena , Sawant Sandesh , Vaidya Abhijit , Gogtay Jaideep
Published: August 2022

Background:

We designed this randomised, open-label, parallel group, multi-centre study to investigate the efficacy and safety of glycopyrronium/formoterol, a long-acting muscarinic antagonist/long-acting b2-agonist fixed dose combination, delivered through a dry powder inhaler (DPI) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Material and Methods:

We randomised (1:1) patients with moderate to severe COPD (N = 356) to receive glycopyrronium 25 mg/formoterol 12 mg via DPI twice daily (GF-DPI) or glycopyrronium 50 mg monotherapy via DPI once daily (G-DPI). The primary study endpoint was the mean change from the baseline in pre-dose trough-forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1) at 12 weeks.

Results:

At week 12, the mean increase from the baseline in pre-dose trough FEV1 was higher in the GF-DPI group (120 ml) than in the G-DPI (60 ml) group. The mean difference (MD) between treatment groups was 0.06 L (95% CI: 0.00–0.12 L, P < 0.0001 for non-inferiority). At week 12, the mean pre-dose forced vital capacity (FVC), 1 hour post-dose FEV1, and post-dose FVC increased significantly from the baseline only in the GF-DPI group (p < 0.0001). The reduction in the COPD assessment test score was greater in the GF-DPI group (p = 0.0379). The average daily number of puffs of rescue medication and the reduction in mean modified Medical Research Council scale, COPD, and Asthma Sleep Impact Scale score at week 12 were similar between groups (p > 0.05). Overall, 35 adverse events and two serious adverse events unrelated to study drugs were reported. Both groups had similar results for overall drug safety.

Conclusion:

The results demonstrate efficacy and safety of GF-DPI in Indian patients with moderate to severe COPD. Treatment with GF-DPI significantly improved the lung function and quality of life and was well tolerated.
Development of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus-2 (SARS-COV-2) Vaccines
Authors: Inaku Kenneth Ogar , Ene Asuquo Bassey , Kasimu Saidu , Bolarin Debayo Moshood
Published: August 2022

The new severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) brings about the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. It is a pathogen that causes extreme respiratory tract infection, especially as the world's populations had no previous immunity and there were little or no uniformly acceptable treatment options. The virus may persist to bring about considerable morbidity and mortality except an efficient vaccine is produced. Following erstwhile evidence and experience with SARS and Middle East respiratory syndrome, the major focus to vaccine development was the spike glycoprotein, regarded as the most important target for SARS-CoV-2 immunotherapies. Collaborative efforts were undertaken to ensure that manufacturing occurred as quickly as possible to salvage the situation. Three vaccine candidates were respectively made of one protein-based vaccine, a simian-derived adenovirus vector, and one messenger RNA vaccine. Two of them published their short-term analyses and effective results after their third trial phase. The messenger RNA vaccine was first confirmed in the USA and the adenovirus-derived vaccine in the UK. This paper gives a narrative review of the literature on the present knowledge about this new virus as it concerns the drawn-up plans of COVID-19 vaccines that are not only effective but safe following the new and established approaches to vaccine development.
To Assess the Perception, Attitude, and Practice Related to Mucormycosis during COVID-19 Era
Authors: Gurjar Yamini J. , Kansagara Trusha , Chauhan Meet , Savani Nikita Maheshbhai
Published: August 2022

Background:

Recently, mucormycosis cases were increasingly reported in people with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), particularly from India. With the subsequent waves of COVID 19 in India, mucormycosis cases may rise again. Besides, people's perception, attitude, and practice toward mucormycosis can be explored with the web-based survey so its outcome can be used in spreading awareness among the general population.

Aim and Objectives:

The study's aim and objective were to assess the perception, attitude, and practice related to mucormycosis in the COVID-19 era and the associated sociodemographic factors among the general population of Gujarat.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional community-based study was carried out for 2 months (June 21–July 21) using semistructured questionnaire in the local language. The form was circulated through WhatsApp application. The principle of the snowball technique was used for data collection. Information related to sociodemographic profile, followed by questions on perception, attitude, and practice related to mucormycosis was collected and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 998 responses for sociodemographic variables were obtained for the study. Seven hundred and eighty-six participants were part of the study for the assessment of perception, attitude, and practice of mucormycosis. A total of 61.45%, 61.83%, and 63.99% of participants had good perception, attitude, and practice, respectively. Binary logistic regression revealed that education and relation with health-care workers for perception, sex, and place of residence for attitude and occupation for practice were independent determinants.

Conclusion:

Good perception, attitude, and practice toward mucormycosis among respondents show that good efforts have been done toward Information, Education, and Communication by health authorities and mass media. Still, there is a need for more collaborative actions in spreading awareness toward the remaining population.
Treatment of Late-Onset Blount's Disease using Linear Rail System and Double Corrective Osteotomies at the Intra-Articular and Metaphyseal Regions
Authors: Enemudo Roy Efetoboh , Lasebikan Omolade Ayoola , Obumse A. T. , Uyilawa Okhuaihesuyi
Published: August 2022

Background:

Blount's disease is a developmental anomaly that affects the posteromedial aspect of the proximal tibia physis with changes seen in the epiphysis, metaphysis, and sometimes, in severe cases, the distal femur as well. It results in a posteromedial deformity, internal tibial torsion, and shortening of the affected leg.

Aim:

The purpose of this study is to document the results of the treatment of the late form of this deformity using intra-articular and metaphyseal osteotomies of the proximal tibia and a linear rail system (LRS) device.

Patients and Methods:

Six patients were treated for late-onset unilateral Blount's disease. The procedure consisted of intra-articular osteotomy below the physis to elevate the depressed medial tibia plateau and a metaphyseal osteotomy below the tibia tubercle to address any residual varus deformity, tibial torsion, and leg shortening using a LRS device.

Results:

The mechanical axis deviation was corrected from a mean of 6.0 cm (range of 3.1–9.6 cm) to 1.4 cm (0–2.9 cm). The tibiofemoral angle was corrected from a mean of 23.2° varus (range of 16°–30°) to a mean of 1.8° varus (range of 5° valgus–7° varus). The limb length discrepancy was corrected. Operation time was 90 min on average. The device use time was three months on average. Schoenecker outcome criteria were good for all the patients.

Conclusion:

The use of double corrective osteotomies at the proximal tibia and the LRS device were found to be cheap, easy to use, and very effective in the treatment of Blount's disease deformity.
Impact of Basic Life Support Training on the Knowledge of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation among Final-Year Medical Students
Authors: Dalhat Salahu , Mujahid Hassan , Saheed Adesope , Miko Abdullahi Mustapha , Mohammad Abdullahi Maryam , Sani Adamu , Shuaibu Ibrahim
Published: August 2022

Background:

Effective and prompt intervention following an episode of cardiac arrest increases survival probability. This underscores the need for basic life support (BLS) training among first-line health-care workers. This study assesses the impact of BLS training among final-year medical students in a Nigerian institution.

Materials and Methods:

Pre- and Post-BLS training questionnaires aimed at assessing knowledge of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) were administered to 72 final-year medical students. Response to 20 questions were scored (total score 20), collated, and analyzed. Knowledge was graded as good if total score was 15 and above and poor if total score was <15.

Results:

The lowest score pre-BLS training was 6 and the highest score was 16, with a mean of 10.68 ± 2.24. The lowest score post-BLS training was 13 and the highest score was 19, with a mean of 16.8 ± 1.52. Good knowledge of BLS was demonstrated in 8.3% and 88.9% of students pre- and post-BLS training, respectively.

Conclusion:

The knowledge base about CPR of final-year medical students in Nigeria is low but was remarkably improved with a focused BLS training.
The Use of Art-Based Interventions in the Care of Patients in Health-Care Institutions in Nigeria
Authors: Oladeji Emmanuel Olusola , Ezeme Constantine , Bamigbola Albert Seun
Published: August 2022

Background:

Arts-based Interventions involve the use of aesthetic engagements, sensory activation, evocation of emotion and cognitive stimulation and involvement of the imagination, to promote wellbeing. This include a wide range of practices, from prehistoric traditions to the modern day evidence based usage of different forms of arts for therapeutic purposes. Despite the early recognition and proven efficacy of art-based interventions, an organized structure for integration of art into healthcare is lacking in Nigeria.

Aim:

This review aims to explore and describe the existing literature on the use of various art forms in the care of patients in health care institutions in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

A scoping review was done. MEDLINE, Embase, African Index Medicus and PsycINFO were searched using the following key words; art in medicine in Nigeria, art therapy in Nigeria and art in health in Nigeria. The search results were screened for articles using predefined criteria. A hand search for articles and communication with Arts in Medicine Project Nigeria were also done. The articles included in the review were read and summarized using a proforma.

Result:

Overall there is a sparseness of academic articles on the use and effectiveness of arts-based interventions in the management of patients in health care institutions in Nigeria. The most commonly applied art forms are music and visual arts.
Reduced Admissions in the Children's Emergency Room During Coronavirus-19 Pandemic in the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Authors: Yarhere Iroro E. , Oragui Onyinye
Published: August 2022

Background:

Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19), the novel global pandemic that was first reported in Wuhan, China, in 2019, and subsequently in Nigeria in 2020, and its negative impact on child health has been receiving attention in the past years. One such impact was the reduction in hospital admissions during lockdown.

Aim:

This study set out to evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the children's emergency ward attendance from January to July 2020 and that of the preceding year.

Materials and Methods:

Hospital records of admissions from January to July 2019–2020 were extracted and exported into IBM SSPS 24 for Mac. The diagnosis was coded using the international classification of diseases. The complex diagnoses were recoded based on the severity or chronologically important ones.

Results:

There was 6.6% fewer admissions in 2020 compared to 2019 (P = 0.009). The duration of illness prior to presentation, cases of acute respiratory infection, severe malnutrition, and gastroenteritis was higher in 2020.

Conclusion:

This study showed the impact of COVID-19 on child health vis-à-vis delay in hospital presentation, reduced hospital admissions, increase in various illnesses when compared to the preceding year as a result of increase in the risk factors that would ordinarily have been mitigated pre-COVID-19.
Career Choices and Determining Factors among Final Year Medical Students in Lagos Nigeria
Authors: Falase Bode , Olufemi Setemi , Adeleye Ayowade Funmilayo , Amogbonjaye Adeola O. , Sunmola Samiat , Olaiya Ayomide , Folaranmi Omowumi
Published: August 2022

Background:

Identifying the factors that influence the choices medical students make regarding their careers can prove invaluable in the management of healthcare manpower.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine the career choices and the determining factors for these choices among final year medical students at the Lagos State University College of Medicine, Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This study is a cross-sectional survey of two consecutive final year classes with a total of 141 students surveyed in February 2014 and February 2015.

Results:

A total of 141 students were surveyed. 75.2% intended to specialise, the most common specialties being: Surgery (29.2%), Paediatrics (14.2%), Obstetrics and Gynaecology (13.2%) and Internal medicine (13.2%). More men preferred surgery (43.5% vs 18.3%; p = 0.005) and more women paediatrics (20% vs 6.5%; p = 0.011). 24.8% did not want to specialise. The reasons included: rigours of residency (48.6%), unacceptable hours of practice (34.3%), difficulty getting placements (28.6%) and family requirements (22.9%). 48.1% of the respondents chose to do their residency abroad, 27.4% chose to stay at home and 24.5% were undecided. The main factors influencing choice of residency abroad were better exposure (88.2%), improved standards of living (82.4%), avoiding incessant strike actions (80.4%) and better financial rewards (72.5%).

Conclusion:

Most students showed a preference for the core clinical specialties with significant gender disparity in specialty preference. The potential for continuous 'brain drain' is also identified. Appropriate steps should be taken to mitigate the factors identified that influenced these choices, to protect the future medical workforce.
Risk Perception on Breast Cancer and Acceptance of Screening with Mammogram by Female Nurses in Tertiary Health Facilities in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Mandong Barnabas Mafala , Mandong Jagshak Barnabas , Emmanuel Innocent , Zoakah Ayuba Ibrahim , Akpa Philip Ojile
Published: August 2022

Background:

Breast cancer remains the major cause of cancer morbidity and mortality among women globally. The risk of breast cancer increases with advancing age. Screening programs have been demonstrated to significantly reduce breast cancer mortality.

Aim:

The main objective was to assess risk perception and acceptance of mammogram as a screening tool for the early detection of breast cancer among female nurses working in three tertiary health facilities in the city of Jos. The study also determined the factors that impede the acceptance of mammogram.

Materials and Methods:

Self-administered semi-structured questionnaires were administered at random to 450 female nurses across the three tertiary health facilities in the city of Jos. The questionnaires were structured into six sections, namely sociodemographic, knowledge of the risk of breast cancer, mammogram use and acceptance barriers to the use of mammogram, and possible obstacles to the utilization of mammogram. The resources were scored and graded accordingly.

Results:

A total of 450 nurses participated with the median age of the participants as 28 years (23–39), 66.7% were younger than 35 years of age, and 54.4% were single. The educational background showed that 53.6% had bachelor's degrees and the remaining had diplomas (46.4%). On risk perception, only 40.7% of the respondents had a good perception of risk factors for breast cancer, while 59.3% had a poor perception. Only 52 (11.6%) of the 450 participants have ever had a form of the mammogram.

Conclusion:

The study showed that less than half of the respondents had a good perception on the risk of breast cancer and also the rate mammogram acceptance was very low.
Knowledge and Associated Factors for the Uptake of Hepatitis B Vaccine among Nonmedical Undergraduate Students in a Private University in Ekiti State, Nigeria
Authors: Elegbede Olusegun Elijah , Alabi Ayodele Kamal , Alao Taiye Adeyanju , Sanni Taofeek Adedayo
Published: August 2022

Background:

Hepatitis B is a life-threatening viral infection that causes acute and chronic diseases of the liver. Hepatitis B infection is endemic in Nigeria with a national pooled prevalence rate of 9.5%. However, a safe and effective vaccine that offers the protection against hepatitis B virus (HBV) is available.

Aim:

This study assessed the knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine and the associated factors for the uptake of the vaccine among non medical undergraduate in a Private University in Ekiti State.

Materials and Methods:

This survey is a cross-sectional study involving 420 nonmedical undergraduate students of a private university in Ekiti State, Nigeria, using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured pretested self-administered questionnaire between March and May 2019. Analysis was done using SPSS version 23, and the level of significance was taken as P < 0.05.

Results:

The mean age of respondents was 20.3 ± 2.7 years. Almost half of the students (47.4%) were within the age range of 15–19 years. Females constitute 51.4% of the respondents and mostly practiced Christianity (77.4%). The majority of respondents had good knowledge of HBV vaccine (77.6%). Just a little over a quarter (26. 9%) of the respondents have taken one or more doses of hepatitis B vaccine. There was a statistically significant association between respondents' age (P = 0.032), the college of study (P = 0.006), and good knowledge of HBV vaccine (P < 0.001) and uptake of hepatitis B vaccine. The factors associated with uptake of hepatitis B vaccine include older age group (25–29 years), studentship in the college of science, and good knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine.

Conclusion:

The majority of respondents had good knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine. Associated factors identified for uptake of hepatitis B vaccine include age (25–29) years, studentship in faculty of science, and good knowledge of hepatitis B vaccine. It is recommended that health education about hepatitis B and its vaccine should be offered to undergraduates to increase the uptake of hepatitis B vaccine.
Congenital Ectropion in Three Babies in the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Authors: Enebe Rachel Onyeka , Dawodu Oseluese Anastasia
Published: August 2022

Congenital ectropion is a rare condition affecting newborns, in which the upper eyelid is turned outwards. Its etiology and pathogenesis, while not yet clear, are associated with congenital lid disorders such as blepharophimosis syndrome, congenital ichthyosis, Down syndrome, and birth trauma, with a higher incidence among Africans. This article reports three cases of this rare condition and their subsequent nonsurgical management. It is important to diagnose this condition early to institute swift conservative care, rule out associated conditions, and ensure good vision in the patient.
Oral Health Knowledge and Behavior among Public Primary Schoolchildren in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Nzomiwu Chioma Love , Ayedun Oladipupo Solomon , Orenuga Omolola Olubunmi
Published: August 2022

Aim:

To evaluate the oral health knowledge and behavior among primary school pupils.

Patients, Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional, descriptive study, in which a systematic sampling method was used to enroll 450 subjects into the study. The data collection tool was a self-administered, structured, pretested questionnaire.

Results:

Of the 450 enrollees, 434 pupils who duly completed their questionnaires participated in the study. Their mean age was 11.7 ± 1.64 years and more than half (229, 52.8) of the pupils were of male gender. About half (52.3%) of the pupils had adequate level of oral health knowledge. Majority had never visited a dentist (75%) before and had never used dental floss (66.6%). A higher proportion (72.3%) of the pupils with adequate level of oral health knowledge received parental supervision during brushing, had visited the dentist, and had frequent dental visit.

Conclusion:

The study revealed that about half of the study population had adequate level of knowledge. It also revealed inadequate oral health behaviour among the pupils. Pupils who had adequate knowledge had better behaviour.
Profile of Polycythaemia Vera in South Western Nigeria
Authors: Osho Patrick Olanrewaju , Ojo Maltida Adesuwa , Osho Evelyn Salewa
Published: August 2022

Background:

Polycythaemia vera (PV) is the most common myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs), others include essential thrombocytosis and primary myelofibrosis. PV is a Philadelphia chromosome-negative MPN, it is a rare haematologic disorder seen primarily in adults aged 60 years and older, with a higher prevalence in men.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to record the prevalence and explain the epidemiological, clinical, and biological PV in teaching hospital in South Western Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

Case notes of all patients with a diagnosis of polycythaemia vera managed at the University of Medical Sciences Teaching Hospital, Ondo state, over a 3-year period between January 2018 and November 2021 were reviewed. The clinical and laboratory findings were extracted from the case records. SPSS-16 (SPSS Inc., USA) and Microsoft Excel statistical software packages were used for statistical calculations.

Results:

A total of 26 cases of PV were managed at University of Medical Sciences, Ondo state, during the period of the review. There were 20 male and 6 female, with the mean age for males 41.61 ± 18.1 and 32.33 ± 0.52 for females. Majority of the patients in the study (53.8%) had headache and fatigue, 54.5% of the patients experienced dizziness, itching and visual disturbance, hypertension, weight loss, and subconjunctival haemorrhage were found in 6 (23.08%), 5 (19.20%), and 4 (15.40%), respectively, night sweat, dyspepsia, and splenomegaly accounted for (1) 3.85%. None of the patients experienced thrombosis and bleeding. Six of the patients were able to pay for Janus Kinase 2 (JAK2) mutation in which 4 of the results were positive for JAK2 mutation while 2 patients were able to afford to pay for serum erythropoietin; the results were below the normal value. All the patients were able to pay for full blood count, peripheral blood film, and bone marrow aspirations. The average packed cell volume for males was 59.7 ± 2.3 and 55.22 ± 4.9 for females while the mean blood and platelets count in our study was 11.19 ± 1.23 and 486 ± 122.3 × 109/l.

Conclusion:

The study showed a low prevalence of PV in Nigeria although most cases of PV were seen among the young adults < 60 years of age affecting their life expectancy because it has a detrimental effect on their work productivity, family life, and social life.
Attitudes of Female Medical Doctors in Nigeria to Cosmetic Surgery
Authors: Michael Afieharo I. , Ugwu Ebere Osinachi , Aladesanwa Francisca Oluwatosin
Published: August 2022

Background:

Though increasing, the demand for cosmetic surgery in Nigeria is low compared to developed countries. Gender is the most predictive sociodemographic factor in determining attitude to cosmetic surgery.

Aim:

This study aimed to determine the attitudes of female medical doctors in Nigeria to cosmetic surgery.

Materials and Methods:

This was an analytic cross-sectional study involving female medical doctors practicing in Nigeria between September 2021 and October 2021. Self-administered questionnaires were distributed to participants via social media platforms and during the Medical Women's Association of Nigeria's 22nd Biennial Conference. Attitude to cosmetic surgery was assessed using the Acceptance of Cosmetic Surgery Scale (ACSS). An independent samples t-test/analysis of variance test was used to determine the mean significant differences between the study characteristics and ACSS scores. Sociodemographic and medical practice factors associated with willingness to undergo cosmetic surgery were determined using Chi-square/Fisher's exact test. P ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results:

There were 181 respondents. Most of them were young (mean age: 35.94 ± 7.19 years), married (126 [69.6%]), and practiced in tertiary institutions (137 [75.7%]). Sixty-two (34.3%) respondents were willing to undergo cosmetic surgery in the future, while only five (2.8%) had undergone prior cosmetic surgery. ACSS analysis revealed that most, 133 (73.5%), respondents had a positive attitude to cosmetic surgery. However, none of the study characteristics were significant predictors of attitude to or willingness to undergo cosmetic surgery.

Conclusion:

Most of the participants had a positive attitude to cosmetic surgery, but were unwilling to undergo one. Further qualitative studies are needed.
Age of Pubertal Maturation of Girls in South Western Nigeria
Authors: Oyewole Omosalewa Adetutu , Oduwole Abiola , Adediran Adekunle Saheed
Published: August 2022

Background:

Secondary sexual characteristics appear at puberty with rapid physical, emotional, and cognitive developments. In girls, thelarche is usually the first sign of puberty, followed by the growth of pubic hair. In Nigeria, unlike many developed countries, there are few studies on puberty.

Aim:

This study aims to document the age of attainment of all the Tanner stages of sexual maturation, the sequence of these events, and the age of attainment of menarche among female secondary school students in Abeokuta.

Subjects and Methods:

This was a descriptive cross-sectional study carried out among girls with an age range between 10 and 20 years of schooling in Abeokuta, South-West Nigeria. Multistage randomly selected participants answered questions on the pro forma. Physical examination including pubertal staging was done. The data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel® 2010 and SPSS 22.0.

Results:

Seven hundred and eleven subjects were recruited. The mean age of the subjects was 14.4 ± 1.9 years. The earliest sign of puberty among the subjects, B2, was seen at a mean age of 12.4 ± 1.5 years, followed by the onset of pubic hair development, and PH 2 at a mean age of 13.4 ± 1.7 years. The mean age of attainment of menarche was 13.1 ± 1.7 years, while the age for completion of pubic hair development is 16.2 ± 1.6 years. Out of 499 subjects who had attained menarche, 324 (64.9%) were in Stage 4 of breast development and 307 (61.5%) were in Stage 3 of pubic hair development.

Conclusion:

The age of onset and completion of pubertal maturation in this study is 12.4 ± 1.5 years and 16.2 ± 1.6 years, respectively. Thelarche as the first sign of puberty is followed by pubic hair development.
A Rare Case of Primary Hodgkin's Lymphoma of the Pancreas
Authors: Abrari Andleeb , Shehwar Durre , Hussain Bilal , Akhtar Kafil
Published: August 2022

Primary pancreatic lymphoma is an extremely rare entity presenting 2.0% of extranodal malignant lymphomas and 0.5% of all pancreatic masses. We present the case of primary pancreatic Hodgkin's lymphoma in a 62-year-old male, who presented with right hypochondrial pain, nausea, vomiting, yellowish discoloration of skin and sclera, accompanied by generalized itching for 3 weeks without any significant loss of appetite and weight loss. Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) showed a reddish bulge in the head of the pancreas due to the growth. EUS-guided biopsy revealed extensive infiltration by dyscohesive lymphoid cells with classic morphology of mononuclear Reed–Sternberg cells, in a background of lymphocytes and eosinophils. This rare report will be of significant diagnostic help to clinicians and pathologists in accurately diagnosing such cases as there is a high likelihood of misinterpreting these as pancreatic adenocarcinoma, which may impact patient management and survival.
Thymic Carcinoid Presenting as Cushing's Syndrome
Authors: Deodhar Anand , Kulkarni Dinesh , Kharche Kishor , George Thomas
Published: August 2022

Primary neuroendocrine tumors of the thymus (NETTs) are rare neoplasms and are biologically aggressive. These are more frequently seen in the third to fifth decade of life. Endocrinopathies such as Cushing's syndrome, acromegaly, or multiple endocrine neoplasia-1 are associated in 50% of cases. These tumors usually present with the invasion of surrounding mediastinal structures. The long-term outcome of NETT is poor due to high risk of recurrence or metastasis. Prognosis depends on the stage, invasion, resection, and possible association of endocrinopathies. We present this case of a 17-year-old male clinically diagnosed as Cushing's syndrome with hypothyroidism, without adrenal mass but with anterior mediastinal mass, and it histologically turned out to be carcinoid of the thymus. Although thymic carcinoids are known to present with Cushing's syndrome, we have not come across with its association of hypothyroidism. Total thymectomy was performed for the case. The patient is on regular follow-up for the past 3 years, he is totally asymptomatic and not on any medication.
Addition of Metoclopramide to Triple Antiemetic Therapy Towards Prevention of Anthracycline-Based Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Rudresha A. H. , Abhilash G. H. , Lokanatha D. , Babu M. C. Suresh , Lokesh K. N. , Rajeev L. K. , Saldanha Smitha , Jacob Linu Abraham , Pandey Amit , Dubey Priyesh , Babbar Pooja
Published: August 2022

Objective:

The aim of this study was to evaluate if addition of metoclopramide to the triplet antiemetic therapy is superior to the triplet antiemetic therapy for prevention of delayed chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting.

Materials and Methods:

A randomized single-blind trial was performed on 200 chemotherapy-naïve breast cancer patients who have to receive anthracycline-based highly emetogenic chemotherapy (HEC). The patients were randomized to study arm (n = 100) and control arm (n = 100). Triplet antiemetic therapy (fosaprepitant on day 1, 5-HT3 antagonist on day 1, and dexamethasone for days 1–4) was used in both the arms and metoclopramide (day 1–5) was added to the study arm. Response to antiemetic prophylaxis was assessed in terms of “complete response (CR),” “only nausea,” and “both nausea and vomiting.” CR is defined as no nausea, no vomiting, and no rescue medication during the overall phase (days 1–5). Nausea/vomiting was detected by using the Visual Analog Scale and its impact on quality of life was determined by using the Functional Living Index Emesis (FLIE) score.

Results:

The demographical and clinical features were similar in both the groups. Majority of patients in both the arms presented with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group PS 0, Stage III, and positive hormone receptor status. CR was observed more in the study arm than that of the control arm (51% vs. 37%; P = 0.046). The mean total FLIE score was 29.23 in the study arm and 31.16 in the control arm (P = 0.036).

Conclusion:

This study resulted in a significant CR and clinically relevant improvement in FLIE score for addition of metoclopramide to triple antiemetic prophylaxis. Therefore, a quadruple antiemetic combination including metoclopramide might be an antiemetic prophylaxis option for breast cancer patients receiving anthracycline-based HEC for better compliance to treatment.
Left ventricular diastolic reserve by exercise stress echocardiography in prediabetes
Authors: Al-Gburi Abdulameer Jasim Jawad
Published: August 2022

ABSTRACT

Objectives:

The objective of this study was to evaluate if the diastolic reserve is different in prediabetes versus control during exercise.

Materials and Methods:

During the resting stage and graded supine bicycling exertion (25 W, 3 min increment), the mitral inflow and septal mitral annular velocities were determined in 50 patients with prediabetes (21 females, mean age 48 ± 16 years) and 50 gender- and age-matched controls. None demonstrated rest or inducible cardiac ischemia on echocardiography.

Results:

Between the two study groups, the velocities of the mitral inflow (E) and septal mitral annulus (E′) at rest are not significantly different. E′ during exercise, on the other hand, was significantly lower in individuals with prediabetes than in controls (8.57 ± 2.46 vs. 9.82 ± 2.42 cm/s at 25 W, P = 0.012; 9.42 ± 1.93 vs. 11.15±2.97 cm/s at 50 W, P = 0.001). E/E′ behaves oppositely during exercise with a value that is significantly higher in patients with prediabetes.

Conclusion:

The diastolic reserve of the left ventricle, as determined by the change in E′ and E/E′ throughout exercise, is abnormal in individuals with prediabetes who do not have overt cardiac disease. Using exercise stress echocardiography may be helpful for the early recognition of subclinical diastolic dysfunction in prediabetics which may have clinical repercussions in the future.
ELECTRONIC LEARNING DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC LOCKDOWN AND THE CHALLENGE OF USAGE AMONG SELECTED UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF PRIVATE AND PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN NIGERIA
Authors: Allo Tolulope Abiola , George Tayo Ola , Adelowo Oluwatobi Dorcas
Published: August 2022

This paper examined the various electronic learning platforms adopted by students in both private and public Universities in Nigeria and the challenges associated with their usage during the COVID-19 pandemic lockdown in 2020. With the ripple effect of the coronavirus cutting across all countries and sectors, about 91% of the global student’s population was affected by this global health catastrophe. The objective of this study is to compare the experiences of private and public University students to determine whether there is a significant disparity in the accessibility, affordability, and ease of use of the various e-learning platforms that were adopted during the global pandemic lockdown. The study employed the survey method in eliciting useful information from undergraduate students at Covenant University, and the undergraduate students at the University of Lagos. The population of study consisted of 374 undergraduate students from both schools. Questionnaire was physically administered to students in Covenant University while a google form was created for students in the University of Lagos due to the inaccessibility of students whose lecturers are currently on an industrial action. Data was analyzed using descriptive techniques in frequencies, percentages, and linear regression analysis. Results from the study revealed that 68.1% of students in Covenant University utilized more e-learning platforms like Moodle, Coursera, Zoom and WebEx unlike their counterparts in the University of Lagos who used only Moodle and Zoom by 43.6%. Also, 87.5% of Covenant University undergraduate students made use of their laptops mostly for their e-learning classes while 56.4% of their counterparts in the University of Lagos mostly made use of their smartphones. Findings revealed that students from the public University faced major challenges such as unstable internet connectivity, limited financial capability in buying devices such as laptops, and lack of skill and competence in navigating the e-learning platforms while students in the private universities on the contrary had relatively stable internet connectivity, could afford laptops and smart devices and had the requisite skills to properly navigate their e-learning platforms. The study concludes by recommending the provision of substantial financing that will aid in the acquisition of relevant technology to promote and support e-learning in public Universities in Nigeria. It also suggested the inclusion of public University students in adequate training on how to navigate the e-learning platforms, thereby equipping them with the requisite skills needed in maximizing the benefits of e-learning. By so doing, the Nigerian educational system would be better prepared in facing future emergencies that may warrant remote learning. Keywords: E-learning platforms, COVID-19, Emergencies, Challenges
The Asymmetric Effect of CEO Power on Energy Firms’ Strategic Decisions
Authors: Lee Chien-Chiang , Yahya Farzan , Khan Ammar Nawaz
Published: August 2022

This study investigates the effect of CEO power on energy firms’ performance, riskiness, and working capital. Our panel quantile regression estimates based on Pakistan data suggest a positive effect of CEO power on firm performance in lower and middle quantiles. Powerful CEOs mitigate excessive risk-taking when the riskiness of firms reaches certain levels. CEO power is negatively related to working capital when the cash holdings exceed a certain level.
The Impact of COVID-19 and Administrative Interventions on Stock Returns: New Insights From Sectoral Analysis
Authors: Musunuru Praveena , Jawed Mohammad Shameem
Published: August 2022

We examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the administrative interventions on stock returns across 21 sectors in India. Almost all sectors reacted negatively to the pandemic announcement on 11 March 2020. The early lockdown resulted in negative abnormal returns. However, this effect was transitory as investors gained confidence and some sectors quickly revived. The unlocking led to positive abnormal returns across all sectors, except chemical products.
Threshold Effect of Environmental Regulation on Eco-Friendly Productivity: Empirical Evidence From China
Authors: Tao Miaomiao , Goh Lim Thye
Published: August 2022

This paper identifies the existence of a significant nonlinear relationship between environmental regulation (ER) and eco-friendly efficiency (EFE) adopting the panel smooth transition regression model. It is interesting to find that ER has temporarily inhibited EFE growth in China. An initial downward trend is reversed and shows upward improvement from a distinct point, creating a V-shaped trend.
Testing the Appositeness of Off-Balance Sheet Activities in the Indian Banking Industry: A Panel Double Bootstrap Approach
Authors: Zaman Mohammad Shahid , Valiyattoor Vipin
Published: August 2022

The impact of shifting business towards off-balance sheet (OBS) activities on the technical efficiency of Indian commercial banks is investigated using data envelopment analysis (DEA) based panel double bootstrap approach. Our results show that inclusion of OBS items in the banks’ output has positive causation with estimated efficiency. Thus, policies promoting OBS activities will help Indian banks not only in finding ways to exploit new profit opportunities but also in improving their efficiency.
Climate Policy Uncertainty and Stock Market Volatility
Authors: Lasisi Lukman , Omoke Philip C. , Salisu Afees A.
Published: August 2022

We examine the relationship between climate policy uncertainty (CPU) and stock market volatility using the GARCH-MIDAS framework to accommodate the variables in their available frequencies thereby circumventing information loss associated with data aggregation or splicing. We find that stock market volatility significantly responds to CPU and we further document improved forecast and economic gains of observing CPU relative to ignoring it.
Analysis of Operating System Using TOPSIS MCDM Method
Authors: Pon Bharathi A , Ramachandran M , Chinnasamy Sathiyaraj , Mani Malarvizhi
Published: August 2022

Operating systems are computer software a user and a computer is between Communications an operating system. Operating system is most people are using the very difficult situation solving the problem in computer. TOPSIS (Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution) analysis using the Operating system 1, Operating system 2, Operating system 3, Operating system 4, Operating system 5 Alternative value and Memory management, Process management, Storage management, protection and security, Software Features Evaluation Parameters in value. Operating system 5 is got the first rank whereas is the Operating system 4 has the Lowest rank.
EFEKTIVITAS MODEL PEMBELAJARAN BERBASIS MASALAH BERKOLABORASI GOOGLE CLASSROM DALAM MENINGKATKAN KETERAMPILAN MENULIS TEKS EKSPLANASI
Authors: Lubis Hakim Prasasti
Published: August 2022

Studi ini bertujuan untuk menjelaskan peningkatan keterampilan menulis eksplanasi dengan menggunakan model PBM dipadukan dengan Google Classroom. Subjek dalam penelitian ini adalah siswa kelas XI OTKP SMK YPK Medan tahun pelajaran 2021-202 yang berjumlah 21 siswa. Metode tes meliputi tes tertulis yang menyediakan data kuantitatif. Metode non-tes terdiri dari lembaran observasi, dokumen, dan survei kepuasan siswa saat sedang belajar, dan disediakan melalui tautan ke pertanyaan. Hasilnya, ditemukan bahwa efektifitas menulis teks eksplanasi siswa meningkat. Respon belajar siswa berada pada kategori “baik”. Artinya, nilai rata-rata 66,6 dan tingkat ketuntasan 33,3% pada siklus I, dan untuk siklus II rata-rata nilai siswa 82 dan tingkat ketuntasan 85%.
PERENCANAAN KOMUNIKASI PARIWISATA DALAM PEMBERDAYAAN MASYARAKAT DESA HILISATARO NANDISA MENUJU DESA WISATA BERBASIS SUSTAINABLE TOURISM DEVELOPMENT.
Authors: Perwirawati Elok , Sihombing Bantors , Simamora Prietsaweny Riris T
Published: August 2022

Tujuan dari riset ini adalah untuk membantu masyarakat desa Hilisataro Nandisa merencanakan pengembangan kepariwisataan di desa sekaligus menumbuhkan partisipasi masyarakat dalam membangun dan memajukan desanya menuju desa wisata melalui sumber daya alam yang dimiliki desa tersebut. Melalui perencanaan komunikasi pariwisata ini akan dihasilkan rancangan model pengembangan pariwisata dari perspektif ilmu komunikasi untuk membantu masyarakat di desa Hilisataro Nandisa, tidak hanya memasarkan produk wisata namun juga menemukan bentuk komunikasi yang tepat sehingga sinergitas antara masyarakat desa, stakeholder pemerintah desa dan pemerintah daerah dapat terjalin dengan baik sehingga pengembangan desa menuju desa wisata berbasis pariwisata berkelanjutan dapat terealisasikan. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif untuk memahami fenomena tentang apa yang dialami oleh subjek penelitian dengan cara mendeskripsikan dalam bentuk kata-kata dan bahasa. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa untuk merancang perencanaan komunikasi pariwisata dalam pemberdayaan masyarakat desa menuju desa wisata harus dirancang dan disesuaikan dengan Peraturan Daerah Kabupaten Nias Selatan Nomor 5 Tahun 2018 tentang Rencana Induk Pembangunan Kepariwisataan Nias Selatan Tahun 2017-2025 agar arah pengembangan pariwisata di desa Hilisataro Nandisa menuju desa wisata tetap berada pada misi pembangunan kepariwisataan daerah dan sejalan dengan visi serta misi desa. Selain itu segala permasalahan desa terkait regulasi, kordinasi, distribusi, riset, tenaga dan pelatihan untuk pengembangan desa menuju desa wisata dapat diselesaikan dengan terapi komunikasi.
IMPLEMENTASI KOMPUTASI AWAN DI DIREKTORAT JENDERAL KEKAYAAN INTELEKTUAL (DJKI)
Authors: Anggriani Harimurti Dyan
Published: August 2022

Hubungan antara demokrasi dan Hak Asasi Manusia (HAM) memiliki ikatan yang signifikan pada pertanyaan bagaimana kompatibilitas antara Islam dan hak asasi manusia. Cukup banyak aspek yang diperdebatkan oleh semua kalangan dan termasuk kalangan umat Islam dalam sepanjang sejarah perkembangan demokrasi. Tujuan pembuatan makalah ini adalah mengidentifikasi kesiapan DJKI selaku instansi pemerintahan dalam mengimplementasi teknologi cloud computing dengan menganalisa bagaimana kendala yang ada sebagai pokok permasalahan hingga solusi yang ditawarkan berupa penyewaan aplikasi SaaS serta tantangan yang dirasakan selaku instansi pemerintahan yang masih terikat dengan payung hukum juga kebijakan terkait pendanaan. Metode Penelitian yang digunakan penulis pada penelitian ini adalah studi kasus. keluhan dirasakan ketika salah satu staff pemeriksa mengeluh kendala pada perangkatnya yang apabila mengalami kerusakan maka tidak bisa menyelamatkan data yang ada pada perangkat tersebut. Namun tantangan kembali dirasakan mengingat DJKI merupakan instansi pemerintahan dibawah naungan Kementerian Hukum dan HAM yang mengharuskan pengadaan menggunakan anggaran negara (APBN). Pemilihan cloud computing pun menjadi salah satu solusi mengatasi kendala yang ada dengan menawarkan kelebihan seperti penyimpanan yang menggunakan teknologi komputasi awan dimana data juga dapat diakses dimana saja, pembayaran layanan yang disesuaikan dengan apa yang ingin konsumen gunakan (pay as you go), juga  menyediakan layanan yang dapat digunakan untuk monitoring dan mengoptimalkan penggunaan sumber daya.
PEMANFAATAN FLY ASH DALAM PENCEGAHAN AIR ASAM TAMBANG DAN UJI KELARUTAN LOGAM DENGAN SKALA LABORATORIUM
Authors: Simangunsong Sumihar , Manalu Reynaldo
Published: August 2022

Penelitian ini dilatarbelakangi Pemanfaatan Fly Ash Dalam Pencegahan Air Asam Tambang Dan Uji Kelarutan Logam Dengan Skala Laboratorium. Dalam penelitian ini, akan diketahui nilai pH dan kandungan kadar logam yang terdapat pada sampel air lindian dengan melukan uji Leach Column Test (LCT) selama 20 hari.Hasil penelitian yang didapatkan adalah nilai pH dari sampel campuran Batuan Breksi Vulkanik  dengan Fly Ash 5,21 di hari ke-10 dan 5,43 di hari ke-20. Dan ini menaikkan nilai pH dari 2,3 untuk batuan breksi vulkanik tanpa campuran. Konsentrasi logam dari air lindian campuran breksi vulkanik dengan fly ash  berkisar (0,0004 sampai 0,009) mg/L dan hal tersebut menurunkan konsentrasi logam pada batuan breksi vulkanik tanpa campuran (0,000015 sampai 3460) mg/L berdasarkan parameter yang di uji yaitu Cu(0.006 mg/L), Cd(0.002 mg/L), Zn(0.001 mg/L), Pb(0.003 mg/L), As(0.0004 mg/L), Ni(0.009 mg/L), Cr(0.005 mg/L), Hg(0.0004 mg/L).