bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Efficacy and Safety of Intravenous Thrombolysis in Older Chinese Patients with Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Xu Ming , Guo Jiamei , Tao Xianming , Zeng Kebin
Published: April 2021

To study the efficacy and safety of intravenous thrombolysis for the older acute ischemic stroke patients, clinical data were prospectively analyzed from 168 patients with acute ischemic stroke including 42 older adult patients (ET group), 66 younger patients (NET group) treated with rt-PA, and 60 older adult patients treated without rt-PA (ENT group). Stroke severity was assessed with an NIHSS score at baseline, 1-day and 14-day after treatment. Functional outcomes were evaluated by the modified Rankin scale and a Barthel index. Adverse effects were observed during the treatment. The rate of “good” prognosis was higher in the ET group than that in the ENT group at 90 days post-stroke. In older patients with stroke, thrombolytic therapy was found to be of greater benefit to patients with lower NIHSS scores at baseline, or patients classified as posterior circulation infarction, than for patients with higher NIHSS scores or infarctions located in other brain regions. Thrombolytic therapy may exhibit long-term efficacy by improving the future quality of life for older stroke patients with fewer bleeding risk factors and lower baseline NIHSS scores.
Spinal Cord Stimulation in The Treatment of Phantom Limb Pain
Authors: Raut Rupesh , Shams Shahzad , Rasheed Muddassar , Niaz Azam , Mehdi Waqas , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: April 2021

Phantom limb pain is a form of chronic neuropathic pain by which 50–80% of the amputees feel the pain that is not adequately controlled by analgesics. When pain management through pharmacological treatment alone is unsuccessful, surgical treatment options are proven to be effective. We report a case of 61-year-old man who sought consultation with phantom limb pain after his motor vehicular accident and below elbow amputation three years before the consultation. His pain was not relieved by analgesics alone and opted for spinal cord stimulation. Chronic Dual Channel dorsal column stimulation was done using Medtronic Prime Advance SCS System. He was in good pain relief and his VAS decreased from (8/10) to (2/10) but since the last six months follow-up he is complaining of pain again (4/10) for which he is taking analgesics too.
A Rare Etiology of Hypocalcemic Seizures in Adulthood
Authors: Batra Nisha , Kant Ravi , Mandal Kausik , Joshi Kriti
Published: April 2021

We report a 40-year-old male who presented with seizures due to hypocalcemia. Biochemical evaluation revealed the diagnosis of hypoparathyroidism. The symptom complex of dysmorphic facies and intellectual disability along with hypoparathyroidism led to a suspicion of 22q11.2 microdeletion syndrome (22q11.2DS), which was confirmed by multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification (MLPA) analysis showing 22q11.2.21 microdeletion.
Diffusion Kurtosis Imaging Reflects GFAP, TopoIIα, and MGMT Expression in Astrocytomas
Authors: Wang Xiao-Chun , Tan Yan , Zhang Hui , Qin Jiang-Bo , Lei Yin , Hao Xiao-Yong
Published: April 2021

Objective:

Preliminary study of magnetic resonance (MR) diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) assessing the pathological glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), TopoIIα, and O 6-methylguanine–DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) expression in astrocytomas.

Materials and Methods:

This study was approved by the local ethics committee, and informed consent was obtained from all participants. Sixty-six cases with pathologically proven astrocytomas were enrolled in this study; of which, 34 were high grade and remaining 32 were low grade. They patients underwent conventional MRI head scan, DKI scan, and enhanced scan under the same conditions. Fractional anisotropy (FA) and mean kurtosis (MK) calculated from DKI, as well as GFAP, TopoIIα, and MGMT expression level were compared prospectively between high and low-grade astrocytomas. Spearman rank correlation analysis was used for comparing values of DKI and GFAP, TopoIIα, and MGMT expression level in the two groups.

Results:

The MK values were significantly higher in high-grade astrocytomas than those in low-grade astrocytomas (P < 0.05); FA values demonstrated no significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.331). GFAP expression level was significantly lower in high-grade astrocytomas than in low-grade astrocytomas (P < 0.05). Topo-IIα expression level were significantly higher in high-grade astrocytomas than in low-grade astrocytomas (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in MGMT expression level between the two groups (P = 0.679). MK values were negatively correlated with the expression of GFAP (r = -0.836; P = 0.03), however, they were positively correlated with the expression of Topo-IIα (r = 0.896; P = 0.01). FA values were not correlated with the expression of GFAP (r = 0.366; P = 0.05), Topo-IIα (r = −0.562; P = 0.05), and MGMT (r = −0.153; P = 0.10).

Conclusion:

MK, the DKI parameter values of astrocytomas, was significantly correlated to the expression of GFAP and TopoIIα. To a certain extent, applying DKI may provide the biological behavior of tumor cell differentiation, proliferation activity, invasion and metastasis, and can guide individual treatment.
Predicting Long-Term Outcome of Patients of Early Parkinsonism with Acute Levodopa Challenge Test
Authors: Acharya Mrinal , Banerjee Subhadeep , Chatterjee Apratim , Mukherjee Adreesh , Biswas Samar , Gangopadhyay Goutam , Biswas Atanu
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of various outcomes of acute levodopa challenge test (ALCT) namely improvement of motor function, development of dyskinesia and intolerance; to predict the diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's disease (IPD) or Parkinson-plus syndrome; to predict levodopa responsiveness and levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID) during long-term therapy.

Methods:

ALCT was performed on 89 patients with parkinsonism of <2 years and were followed up for 18 months. Improvement of UPDRSm by ≥30% was considered positive.

Results:

The test was positive in 37 (43.5%) and negative in 48 (56.5%) of 85 patients completing it. Of the 75 patients completing 18 months' follow-up 34 (45.3%) were diagnosed as IPD. A positive ALCT predicted a clinical diagnosis of IPD with sensitivity and specificity of 97.4% and 70.7% respectively. The predictive value of ALCT for long-term levodopa responsiveness was less than predicting a diagnosis of IPD. While appearance of dyskinesia during ALCT had a low predictive value for future LID (sensitivity 14.3%), it had high predictive value for a diagnosis of multisystem atrophy (MSA) (91% specificity and 37.5% sensitivity). The appearance of symptoms of levodopa intolerance (SLI) during ALCT could predict a clinical diagnosis of MSA with high specificity (95.5%) and moderate sensitivity (50%).

Conclusion:

Levodopa responsiveness during ALCT was useful in predicting a diagnosis of IPD but not long-term response to levodopa. The development of dyskinesia during ALCT could not correctly predict LID, but could predict a diagnosis of MSA. The appearance of SLI during ALCT could also predict MSA correctly.
Role of Double Inversion Recovery Sequence in Neuro-imaging on 3 Tesla MRI
Authors: Kulkarni Shilpa , Kulkarni Makarand M , Patankar Aparna , Watve Apurva
Published: April 2021

Double Inversion Recovery (DIR) is a robust sequence designed to suppress fat and water signals using two 180° inversion pulses to produce prominent gray matter contrast with high spatial resolution. It has proven to be more sensitive in delineating white matter signal abnormalities than conventional MR techniques. In our study, the highest image contrast with lesion load was observed using DIR over FLAIR and T2 weighted imaging. DIR is evidently valuable for the detection of demyelinating lesions observed in multiple sclerosis (MS), malignancies, epileptogenic foci, and cortical anomalies. Hence this pictorial review is intended to assess the diagnostic efficacy of DIR modality in clinical Neuro-imaging.
Mitochondrial DNA Haplogroups and Three Independent Polymorphisms have no Association with the Risk of Parkinson's Disease in East Indian Population
Authors: Saha Tania , Roy Somrita , Chakraborty Rajashree , Biswas Arindam , Das Shyamal K , Ray Kunal , Ray Jharna , Sengupta Mainak
Published: April 2021

Background:

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a multifaceted illness affecting ~ 0.3% of the world population. The genetic complexity of PD has not been, fully elucidated. Several studies suggest that mitochondrial DNA variants are associated with PD.

Objective:

Here, we have explored the possibility of genetic association between mitochondrial haplogroups as well as three independent SNPs with PD in a representative east Indian population.

Methods and Material:

The Asian mtDNA haplogroups: M, N, R, B, D, M7, and 3 other SNPs: 4336 T/C, 9055 G/A, 13708 G/A were genotyped in 100 sporadic PD patients and 100 matched controls via conventional PCR-RFLP-sequencing approach.

Results:

The distribution of mtDNA haplogroups, as well as 3 single polymorphisms, did not show any significant differences (P > 0.05) between patients and controls.

Conclusion:

This is the first of its kind of study from India that suggests no association of selected mitochondrial DNA variations with PD.
Predictors of Quality of Life at 3 Months after Treatment for Aneurysmal Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Kulkarni Akshay V , Devi Bhagavatula Indira , Konar Subhas K , Shukla Dhaval
Published: April 2021

Background:

Patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) have a low quality of life (QOL) despite diagnostic and therapeutic advancements. Less than half of the survivors can return to their previous jobs and have difficulty in being a functional part of society. Our study aimed to understand the overall outcome and QOL of these patients and to identify the predictive factors determining the same.

Methods:

The clinical and radiological data were recorded at presentation, subsequent intervals at the hospital, and during discharge. Patients were interviewed telephonically or in the clinic subsequently at 3 months after treatment with following outcome assessment tools: Modified Rankin Scale (mRS), Barthel Index (BI), QOL after Brain Injury Overall Scale (QOLIBRI-OS), and Short Form 36 (SF 36) QOL scale.

Results:

Out of the total patients (n = 143), 124 patients survived, of which 106 patients could be interviewed. The mRS, QOLIBRI-OS, BI, and SF36 had a good correlation with each other. Only 4.7% had moderate to severe disability on the mRS scale, and 2.8% had severe disability according to the Barthel index. Nearly one-third of patients had deteriorated QOL. The mental health domain was worst affected. The major determinant of QOL was GCS at presentation (mean P value 0.01), a course in the ward (0.0001), GCS at discharge (0.001).

Conclusion:

Though fewer of the patients had a severe disability, a majority of them had deterioration in QOL.
Brivaracetam
Authors: Khilari Madhuri , Nair Pradeep P , Jha Brajesh Kumar
Published: April 2021

Objectives:

Epilepsy is a common neurological ailment contributing to significant disability. About one-third of all epilepsy patients would be refractory to two or more medications. Brivaracetam (BRV) is one of the newer anti-seizure medications on which extensive data is available, but its efficacy as an early add-on agent (first/second adjuvant) is unclear. The principal objective of this review is to assess the efficacy of BRV as an early add-on agent in refractory Focal Onset Seizures (FOS) and its pharmacology and usage in various clinical situations associated with seizures.

Methods:

We searched two databases, Medline and Cochrane Central, for papers on BRV and FOS, and selected six studies with randomized parallel control design to extract the data for a meta-analysis. We also did a comprehensive review of the available literature on its pharmacology and usage in various clinical scenarios associated with seizures.

Results:

For the meta-analysis, we extracted 145 articles; six studies fulfilled the selection criteria that gave us data on 1938 patients who received Brivaracetam as an early add-on agent in FOS. The Risk Ratio (RR) (95% CI) for 50% responders across the trials was 1.88 (1.55–2.29). Similarly, the overall RR (95% CI) was 5.82 (2.15–15.70) for seizure freedom.

Conclusion:

Our analysis provides moderate evidence for Brivaracetam as an effective agent as an early adjuvant in FOS. Its efficacy for several other indications needs further clinical trials and evaluation.
Robot-guided Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt in Slit-like Ventricles
Authors: Doddamani Ramesh S , Meena Rajesh , Sawarkar Dattaraj , Singh Pankaj , Agrawal Deepak , Singh Manmohan , Chandra Poodipedi S
Published: April 2021

Background:

Ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) is the most common procedure used in the management of hydrocephalus regardless of the etiology. The standard free-hand technique is used for the placement of VPS in patients with enlarged ventricles. In patients with very small ventricles, CSF access through ventriculostomy becomes challenging and free-hand technique may be associated with high failure rates. In these situations, stereotactic-guided VPS becomes very useful.

Objective:

To validate and describe the technique of robotic-guided VPS in cases with very small ventricles.

Methods:

Three patients underwent VPS with robotic guidance between 2016 and 2019. One patient with a diagnosis of occipital meningocele, who later developed recalcitrant CSF leak from the operative site, and two other patients were diagnosed with idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH). Plain CT brain with 1-mm slice thickness acquired prior to the surgery was uploaded into the ROSA machine (Zimmer Biomet Warsaw, Indiana). The trajectory for the VPS is created on the robotic software presurgery. The patient is placed in the supine position with head turned to the side contralateral to VPS insertion and fixed with Mayfield clamp. Registration of the patient is done with the robot. The placement of the VPS is commenced with the robotic arm in the predetermined trajectory.

Results:

Ventricle was hit in a single attempt in all the cases. CSF leak stopped in the case with meningocele; headache, and visual acuity improved in both the cases of IIH.

Conclusion:

Robotic-guidance provides a safe and accurate method of VPS placement even in the presence of slit-like ventricles.
Oculopalatal tremor
Authors: Umaiorubahan Meenakshisundaram , Meenakshisundaram Sreenivas
Published: April 2021

Oculopalatal tremor (OPT) is a unique clinical sign characterized by involuntary movements of the soft palate in synchrony with ocular nystagmus, usually the pendular type. It is highly suggestive of and is a delayed complication of a brainstem lesion, often a stroke. The mechanism and clinical implications of OPT are still not fully elucidated and present a treatable complication of brainstem disease. We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles with keywords “Oculopalatal tremor.” Most relevant articles were reviewed, based on the number of citations and information was collated by both the authors. We present two cases of OPT which illustrate the clinical spectrum of OPT.
The Introduction and Localisation of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Malaysia
Authors: Lee Shin-Wei , Li Hai-Ying
Published: April 2021

Abstract

This thesis discusses how traditional Chinese medicine was introduced to Malaysia. History records show that traditional Chinese medicine was first introduced to Malaysia in the year 1405 while 1796 saw the establishment of Malaysia’s first Chinese medicine shop. With the popularization of Chinese medicine, Chinese medicine education and organizations were established. Traditional Chinese Medicine has gradually been recognized by the Malaysian government due to the efforts of the practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine. In 2004, the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Department was established at the prestigious National Cancer Institute to improve quality of life as well as provide opportunities for cure to cancer patients.
The Importance of Adopting Leadership Concepts in Communicating Medicinal Culture of Chinese Medicine in the Western World
Authors: Wu Tina
Published: April 2021

Cultures are beliefs, knowledge, and languages people use to communicate with others. In the same rationale, the communication between Chinese and Western medicinal cultures is the communication between two medicinal beliefs, knowledge, and languages. In this article, the key components of Chinese and Western cultures will be discussed to lay the foundations for better communication of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) in the Western world. Besides the discussion of similarities and differences between the two cultures, the potential of being complementary to each other in practices will be explored. Moreover, in this article, using key leadership skills to enable better communication and practices of TCM in the Western world will be examined as well.
A case of idiopathic acquired haemophilia - A with massive subcutaneous bleeding
Authors: Kothakota Sunil Raviraj , Khosla Pooja , Chawla Kunal , Jain Sunil
Published: April 2021

We report a case of a 69-year-old male, a known epileptic on phenytoin for 40 years, presented with ecchymotic patches over the right upper and lower extremities. There was a history of right leg pain 3 weeks before presentation, when he was misdiagnosed as deep venous thrombosis (DVT) on the basis of venous Doppler at a nursing home. He was treated with low-molecular-weight heparin followed by acenocoumarol. Subsequently, he developed subcutaneous bleeding followed by sudden drop in haemoglobin, and anticoagulant measures were withheld. He continued to have fresh crops of ecchymosis even 10 days after withdrawal of anticoagulants; hence, he was shifted to our hospital. On evaluation, his activated partial thromboplastic time (APTT) was found elevated and anaemia was present, while prothrombin time and thrombin time were normal. His factor VIII level was identified as low (1%) and factor VIII inhibitor level was elevated. With diagnosis of acquired haemophilia A, he was treated with recombinant factor VII, steroid and cyclophosphamide. There was no cause identified for acquired haemophilia A, even after extensive work-up for malignancy, viral diseases, connective disorders and coagulating disorders. Hence, the diagnosis of idiopathic acquired haemophilia was considered.
SPARC scoring model
Authors: Saluja Manoj , Pillai Drishya , Sharma Sidharth
Published: April 2021

Background:

A big concern for physicians during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has been its uncertain prognosis and sudden progression into critical illness. No objective measures have yet been in use to predict complications and plan a management accordingly.

Aims:

The objective of this study was to establish a predictive model of disease outcome to facilitate early and effective decision-making.

Materials and Methods:

A cluster of (COVID-19) patient data was assessed retrospectively to build a binary logistic regression-based model that predicts mortality based on clinical, laboratory and radiological parameters. The model performance was characterised based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results:

During the study period, over 2000 patients infected with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, of whom 200 were admitted to the intensive care unit. Eleven patients were omitted as per the entry criteria. Five predictors (determined within 24 h of admission) were identified as independent risk factors for worse outcomes in COVID-19-infected patients: serum lactate dehydrogenase, PaO2/FiO2, age, respiratory rate and computed tomography severity. These were then used as a cluster and a nomogram- COVID-19, critical care, infectious disease, outcome prediction, SPARC score (SPARC) was made. Intended to be used at or within 24 h of admission, it is intended for better triage and management. Higher score correlates with a better prognosis. The performance of the overall score was 80% as assessed by ROC.

Conclusion:

The risk score SPARC, based on five factors, aids in the early prediction of disease outcome and hence facilitates triage, individualised and efficacious treatment and improved results.
The Effect of Peer Education on Management of Chemotherapy Side Effects in Patients with Cancer
Authors: Alilu Leyla , Heydarzadeh Leila , Habibzadeh Hossein , Rasouli Javad
Published: April 2021

Background:

Chemotherapy drugs may have numerous side effects for patients. Thus, this study was conducted with the aim to determine the effect of peer education on the management of chemotherapy side effects in patients with cancer.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized, controlled trial was conducted on 80 patients with cancer in 2018. They were allocated to two groups of intervention and control. The self-care education on chemotherapy side effects was provided by the peers to the individuals in the intervention group. The data collection tools included a demographic characteristics form and the Self-Care Diary (SCD). Data analysis was performed using independent t-test and Chi-square test in SPSS software.

Results:

The results showed that the mean scores of the effectiveness of self-care behaviors were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group after the intervention (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

Peer education is recommended for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy.
The Effects of a Psychosocial Support Program on Perceived Stress of Family Caregivers of Patients with Mental Disorders
Authors: Hajisadeghian Reihaneh , Ghezelbash Sima , Mehrabi Tayebeh
Published: April 2021

Background:

Taking caring of patients with mental disorders is stressful and people who take care of these patients need to receive enough support and training to overcome this challenging situation. The present study was aimed at investigating the effects of a psychosocial support program on perceived stress of family caregivers of patients with mental disorders.

Materials and Methods:

This randomized controlled clinical trial was performed on 64 family caregivers of patients with mental disorders referred to Noor and Hazrat-e-Ali Asghar hospital in Isfahan, Iran, in 2018-19. The participants were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups using a random number table. In the intervention group, the training program was held in 6 sessions of 90-minute training classes twice a week. Data were collected using a demographic characteristics form and the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS) before, immediately after, and 1 month after the intervention. Descriptive and inferential statistical tests such as Chi-square, Mann-Whitney, independent t-test, repeated measures ANOVA, and Kolmogorov-Smirnov test were used to analyze the data in SPSS software.

Results:

The result of the study showed that the total mean score of perceived stress in the intervention group was significantly less than the control group immediately after (F2=66.29, p<0.001) and 1 month after the intervention (F2=66.29, p<0.001).

Conclusions:

Delivering a training program on the different dimensions of support family caregivers need will reduce the perceived stress of family caregivers of patients with mental disorders. Therefore, the implementation of this intervention is recommended in this group of caregivers.
Comprehensive–Comparative Study of Fracture Distal end Radius with Plating and K-Wire Fixation
Authors: Kumar Randir , Kumar Nand , Kumar Ashutosh
Published: April 2021

Introduction:

Distal end radius fracture is a common fracture seen in the routine orthopedic outpatient department. The optimal management of distal radius fractures remains controversial.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to compare the functional outcomes folloing volar plating and K-ire fixation of the distal end radius fractures and to compare hich method produced better result. The functional outcome in terms of range of movements, pain, and grip strength of the patients as assessed at 6 months in both groups by demerit score system of Gartland and Werley. Material and Methods: The ORIF group as treated ith volar plating and CRIF group ith k ires. The functional outcome as measured using Gartland and Werley system.

Results:

Functional outcome as per Gartland and Werley as 95% excellent-to-good results in the plating group as compared to 75% in the K-ire fixation group.

Conclusion:

The study emphasizes that open reduction and internal fixation ith volar plating has excellent functional outcome hen compared to K-ire fixation in distal radius fractures. When considering the cost, K-ire fixation is preferred over volar plating.
Remote sensing and gis applications in determining shoreline and surface water quality changes in Bayelsa state, Nigeria
Authors: Adebola A.O. , Ogunribido T.H.T , Adegboyega S.A. , Ibitoye M.O. , Adeseko A.A
Published: April 2021

The study of shoreline changes is essential for updating the changes in shoreline maps and management of natural resources as the shoreline is one of the most important features on the earth’s surface. Shorelines are the key element in coastal GIS that provide information on coastal landform dynamics. The purpose of this paper is to investigate shoreline changes in the study area and how it affects surface water quality using Landsat imagery from 1987 to 2016. The image processing techniques adopted involves supervised classification, object-based image analysis, shoreline extraction and image enhancement. The data obtained was analyzed and maps were generated and then integrated in a GIS environment. The results indicate that LULC changes in wetland areas increases rapidly during the years (1987-2016) from 34.83 to 38.96%, vegetation cover reduces drastically through the year which range from 30% to 20%. Polluted surface water was observed to have decreased from 30% to 20% during 1984-2010 and reduced by about 3% in 2016. In addition, the result revealed the highest level of erosion from 1987 to 2016 which is -49.60% against the highest level of accretion of 13.39% EPR and NSM -1400 erosion against 350 accretions. It was also observed that variations in shoreline changes affect the quality of surface water possibly due to shoreline movement hinterland. This study has demonstrated that through satellite remote sensing and GIS techniques, the Nigerian coastline can adequately be monitored for various changes that have taken place over the years.Key Words: Shoreline, Remote Sensing, Erosion, Accretion, GIS
Adoption Of Irrigation And Its Consequences On Household Income In The Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Zeweld Woldegebrial , Hidgot Assefa , Hailu Gebresilassie
Published: April 2021

An expansion of irrigation is among the priority areas in Ethiopia although farmers’ participation is below the expectations. This paper aims to identify factors that affect farmers’ decisions to use irrigation and also estimate its role in household income. The data is collected using standardised questionnaire and analysed it using the Heckman model. Household size, rural associations, markets, information access, extension services, and rural roads are found significant factors affecting farmers’ decisions to use irrigation. Income from irrigation has accounted for 38% of total income. Use of irrigation has a significant positive effect on household income. Thus, local associations and institutions should be empowered and rural services should be expanded to induce farmers to use irrigation thereby increases their income. Key Words: Irrigation, income, Heckman model, Ethiopia
Evaluation and flora diversity of Gashaka Gumti National Park-1, Gashaka Sector, Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinsoji A , Adeonipekun P.A. , Adeniyi T.A. , Oyebanji O.O. , Eluwole T.A.
Published: April 2021

This article has been retracted as requested by the authors owing to an unresolved issue bothering on conflict of interest in the article.The alarming rate of ecosystem degradation in many parts of Nigeria has continued to have significant impacts on the country’s resources, conservation potential, and climate. This pressure led to an ecological and geographical survey in Gashaka Gumti National Park 1, Taraba State, Nigeria in 2013 and 2015 to document the species composition across the different vegetation types and geomorphic gradients, and to assess the vegetation loss between 1991 and 2013. Vegetation analysis was done using standard ecological sampling procedures. Digital Elevation Mapping (DEM) was also done to estimate the altitudinal ranges of the Park, while a Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated to ascertain vegetation loss over time. Recognized vegetation types are lowland rainforest, southern Guinea savanna, and montane. A total of 426 species were identified belonging to 306 genera and 104 families with Asteraceae dominating (37 spp.). Also, five species which have never been formally documented in any published flora of Nigeria were identified. With respect to habit, 29 grasses, 26 ferns, 19 climbers, 98 forbs, 9 sedges, 79 shrubs, 152 trees and 14 epiphytes were classified. Plant diversity decreased with increasing altitude. The DEM classified the heights of the sampled area into lowland (400 – 933 m), sub-montane (933 – 1467 m), and montane (1467 – 2000 m). The NDVI revealed higher vegetation cover in 1991 than 2013. These results indicate the importance of regular assessment of floristic composition through checklisting of species in national parks for effective and efficient species conservation and management.Keywords: Gashaka Gumti, National Park, floral diversity, geomorphic gradient, DEM and NDVI
Magnitude and Factors Associated with Optimal Complementary Feeding Practices among Children Aged 6-23 Months in Bensa District, Sidama Zone, South Ethiopia
Authors: Birhanu Muntasha , Abegaz Teferi , Fikre Rekiku
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND: Prevalence of optimal complementary feeding practices are lower than expected. Undernutrition contributes 35% of children mortality. Our study was aimed to assess magnitude and factors associated with optimal complementary feeding practices among children 6-23 months in Bensa Dstrict, Sidama Zone, South Ethiopia, 2016.METHOD: A community based cross sectional study was conducted from January to February 2016 in (8) randomly selected kebles found in Bensa District. Respondents were selected by using simple random sampling technique after sampling frame was prepared from rapid survey. Pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect information. Then, data were entered into SPSS version 20, Then, crude odds ratio (COR) and adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% confidence interval were computed to examine statistical significance.RESULT: This study revealed that only 8.6% (95%CI: 6.4, 10.7%) of 6-23 months children had optimal complementary feeding practices. Mother’s knowledge on optimal complementary feeding (AOR=5.4, 95%CI: 2.7, 11), postnatal care service utilization(AOR=3.4, 95%CI: 1.7, 7), and household food security (AOR=5, 95%CI: 2.5, 10.5) were positively associated with optimal complementary feeding practices.CONCLUSION: Mother’s knowledge, postnatal care utilization and household food security positively affected optimal complementary feeding practices.Thus, Bensa District Health Office, Sidama Zone Health Departiment and other respective stakeholders should cooperatively work to enhance knowledge of mothers/care takers on optimal complementary feeding practices, household food security and on advantages of postnatal care service utilization.
Comparison of Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification and Simplified Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification Systems in Clinical Staging of Iranian Women with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Authors: Zinat Ghanbari  , Saloumeh Peivandi  , Maryam Deldar Pasikhani  , Foroohar Darabi
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND፡ Pelvic organ prolapse is a common pelvic disorder among women. A standard staging system is needed to carefully evaluate the extent and severity of the disease, and initiate appropriate treatment. The aim of this study was to compare the two methods of standard and simplified pelvic organ prolapse quantification systems in clinical staging of Iranian women with pelvic organ prolapse.METHODS: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted on all women with complaints of seeing or feeling a vaginal lump or bulge and/or a dragging sensation who were presented to a pelvic floor disorders clinic of Imam Khomeini Hospital in Tehran, Iran, from October 2018 to June 2019. All patients were evaluated in terms of pelvic organ prolapse severity and staging using both instruments. Also, length of time needed to complete the questionnaires were calculated. After data collection, the results of pelvic organ prolapse staging and degree of agreement between two examiners were evaluated.RESULTS: A total of 120 women with mean age of 50.92±13.12 years were evaluated. It was shown that there is an almost perfect agreement (kappa coefficient > 0.8) between standard and simplified pelvic organ prolapse quantification systems in all the 3 compartments. Also, there was almost a twofold increase in the time needed to perform standard pelvic organ prolapse quantification (4.16±1.01 minutes) compared to performing simplified pelvic organ prolapse quantification (2.12±1.14 minutes) (p=0.03).CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, there is a substantial and almost perfect agreement between standard and simplified pelvic organ prolapse quantification systems in clinical staging of Iranian women with pelvic organ prolapse. It seems that using simplified pelvic organ prolapse quantification system is more applicable in clinical practice for staging of pelvic organ prolapse, with high reliability coefficient.
Prevalence and Correlates of Musculoskeletal Pain in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes in Populations with Low-Risk of Obesity: A Cross- Sectional Study
Authors: Adedapo W Awotidebe  , Auwalu Shehu
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND፡ There are few data concerning the prevalence and predictors of musculoskeletal pain among adults with type 2 diabetes in population with low-risk of obesity. Our objective was to describe the point prevalence and factors associated with increased risk of musculoskeletal pain in this population.METHODS: A cross-sectional data of 200 adults with type 2 diabetes, aged ≥ 18 years who were attending two tertiary hospitals were examined. Musculoskeletal pain and physical activity were collected with Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQSF) respectively. We used logistic regression to examine the risks associated with musculoskeletal pain.RESULTS: The point prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was 72.7% and similar between men (72.3%) and women (73.1%). In the last 7days, advancing age (odds ratio=1.09;95%CI:1.02-1.16) and comorbidity (odds ratio=3.0;95%CI:1.07-8.39) were risk factors associated with musculoskeletal pain. In the last 12 months, only comorbidity (odds ratio=5.57;95%CI:1.62-19.17) was a risk factor for increasing musculoskeletal pain. However, a unit increase in physical activity level (odds ratio=0.06;95%CI:0.008-0.51) was associated with decreased odds of musculoskeletal pain.CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of musculoskeletal pain was high and physical activity was associated with a decreased risk thereof. A further research should be evaluated on the influence of physical activity on musculoskeletal pain.
Comparative Effectiveness of Electrical Stimulation and Aerobic Exercise in the Management of Erectile Dysfunction: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Adamu Rislanu  , Hassan Auwal  , Danazumi Musa  , Abdulahi Auwal
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND፡ Electrical stimulation and aerobic exercise have been indicated to be beneficial in the management of erectile dysfunction individually. However, there is a scarcity of evidence comparing the two treatment approaches. This study investigated the effects of Electrical Stimulation (ES) compared with Eerobic Exercise (AE) in the management of individuals with Erectile Dysfunction (ED).METHODS: This study was a single-blind parallel randomized clinical trial. Thirty (30) patients diagnosed with ED (Mean age of 39.17 ± 6.21 years) were recruited and randomized into two groups, A and B with 15 participants in each group. Group A received ES while Group B received AE. International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) was used to assess the sexual functions of the participants at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. Within-group and between-group differences were analyzed using dependent and independent t-tests respectively.RESULTS: The result indicated a significant difference between groups A and B [20.83 (1.83) Vs 14.33 (2.07), p=0.001] after 6 weeks of intervention. However, the mean effect was significantly higher in the ES group than in the AE group.CONCLUSION: The finding of this study indicated that ES is more effective than AE in the management of individuals withED. Trial Registration: Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (PACTR201906776769795)
Right Pulmonary Artery Absence or Discontinuity in Ethiopian Toddler
Authors: Henok Tadele  , Etsegenet Gedlu
Published: April 2021

BACKGROUND፡ Unilateral pulmonary artery absence or discontinuity is a rare congenital abnormality. Its reported prevalence is 1 in 150,000 adults.CASE PRESENTATION: A 22-month-toddler girl was referred from a general hospital for cardiac follow-up to our hospital after diagnosis of severe pulmonary hypertension was made. She presented with generalized body swelling, cough, fast breathing and high-grade fever of four days duration. She had repeated severe chest infections. Echocardiography and chest computed tomography revealed right pulmonary artery discontinuity. Acute care was given and chronic care was established.CONCLUSION:Pulmonary artery discontinuity is a rare anomaly. It should be considered in any child presenting with recurrent chest infections/pulmonary hypertension. Appropriate and timely diagnostic work up will avoid misdiagnosis.
Application of the records life-cycle and records continuum models in organizations in the 21st century
Authors: Matlala Mpubane Emanuel , Maphoto Asania Reneilwe
Published: April 2021

This study provides a descriptive examination and traces the historical development of records management approaches, as well as their significance to the records management practice and their limitations. The study focuses on the records continuum model, developed in Australia's archival sciences field in recent years and discusses its implications for the practice of records and archival management. Prior to the emergence of the records continuum model, the life-cycle theory dominated most records management fields globally. The records continuum model responds – in ways that the life-cycle theory is unable to deal with the challenges of electronic records and proposes a new set of management thinking of the preservation of the electronic environment, in which contemporary institutions and their associated electronic records coexist. There appears to be insufficient literature on the practice of these two records management theories in the organizational context. To contribute to bridging this gap, this study analysed the major components of each records management theory and presents models of organizations built on these approaches. Therefore, the study examines the uses of the records continuum model and life-cycle theories within the broader field of archival research. The study is a literature review within a qualitative, interpretative paradigm. Relying on historical and narrative analysis, the findings established evidence of the practice of the records management theories in the organizations. The study concluded that records management practice in organizations can be enhanced, if specific factors within each records management approach are given adequate consideration in their application.
XVI Jornada Acadêmica, 1º Encontro Anual de Iniciação Cientifica da UNINGÁ
Authors: Pelloso Sandra Marisa , Romani Isaac
Published: April 2021

Entre 19 e 23 de outubro deste ano a UNINGÁ realizou a XVI Jornada Acadêmica, 1º Encontro Anual de Iniciação Cientifica, Seminário de Pós-Graduação em Odontologia e II Web Jornada. O evento anual foi destinado aos discentes de graduação e pós-graduação dos cursos presenciais e EAD e também aos docentes e outros profissionais das diversas áreas do conhecimento.
VIRTUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON IS OPEN ACCESS KNOWLEDGE CRITICAL IN SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION?
Authors:   ILMA University, Subhani MI
Published: April 2021

Office of Research, Innovations & Commercialization, ILMA University as always plays a significant role of stimuli to provoke the understanding of publishing protocols among the publishers and other stakeholders of scholarly communications. In continuation to this role, Office of Research, Innovations & Commercialization-ILMA University is hosting a virtual international conference on IS OPEN ACCESS KNOWLEDGE CRITICAL IN SCHOLARLY COMMUNICATION? With this note, to spread growing significance of Open Access Knowledge in Scholarly Communication, I am extending an Official Invitation to your good self to attend this conference. During this extraordinary new normal time in an unprecedented year, there is no pressure to attend this conference. The conference has been designed to be as flexible as possible in the hopes that many people can participate to listen Conference KEYNOTE SPEAKERS from Higher Education Commission, Govt. of Pakistan, Web of Science, Elsevier, COPE, Creative Commons, SAGE Open, University of Jyväskylä, Finland, University De Quebec Montreal, Commonwealth University and Suan Sunandha Rajabhat University, Bangkok.
РАЗРАБОТКА СИСТЕМЫ АВТОМАТИЗАЦИИ
ЭЛЕКТРОЛИЗНО-ВОДНОГО ГАЗОГЕНЕРАТОРА
Authors: Пинчук В.И. , Никулин Т.Р.
Published: April 2021

В представленной статье проведена разработка интеллектуальной системы управления электролизно-водного газогенератора на платформе Ардуино. Описана

конструкция электролизно-водного газогенератора, определены ключевые показатели,

необходимые для отслеживания в ходе работы устройства. Составлена схема автоматизации

и подобраны плата управления и датчики. Программирование микроконтроллера производилось в интегрированной среде разработки Arduino IDE на языке C++. Проведена

сборка и наладка спроектированной системы, сделаны выводы.
DIGITALISASI PEMBUATAN ANIMASI DI SMK SEBAGAI UPAYA MENINGKATKAN HASIL KARYA SESUAI TUNTUTAN INDUSTRI
Authors: Mardi Mr.
Published: April 2021

Tujuan penelitian ini sebagai upaya mencari solusi agar hasil karya siswa yang dibuat sesuai dengan standart industri. Sehingga proses praktik pembuatannya diperlukan control quality dari pihak industri. Dalam pengerjaan animasi memerlukan peralatan memadai, fasilitas internet, literasi pendukung pengetahuan, penguasaan komputer dan skill yang cukup. Setiap tahun permintaan tenaga kerja bidang animasi terus meningkat, hal ini ditunjukkan dengan banyaknya lowongan kerja yang di tawarkan dari berbagai studio animasi. Pada prinsipnya semua perusahaan memerlukan tenaga yang trampil siap untuk bekerja di bidangnya. Pada kenyataannya lulusan siswa kompetensi animasi masih banyak yang belum siap kerja. Sebagai upaya memecahkan permasalahan tersebut kami mengadakan penelitian dengan pengumpulan data menggunakan metode kualitatif, yaitu dengan menggali data melalui wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi secara langsung pada subyek sasaran penelitian. Subyek penelitian yaitu siswa kelas 12 kompetensi animasi SMKN 12 Surabaya, sedangkan obyek penelitian yaitu hasil karya siswa. Proses pembelajaran pembuatan animasi secara digital di SMKN 12 Surabaya dengan model project base learning menggunakan metode penugasan diharapkan meningkatkan hasil karya sesuai tuntutan industri.
POLÍTICAS PÚBLICAS DE SAÚDE DAS MULHERES NO MUNICÍPIO DE FORTALEZA: UM PANORAMA A PARTIR DA ATUAÇÃO DA DEFENSORIA PÚBLICA NO ANO DE 2019
Authors: MARIA SILVA REGINALDO FERREIRA GOMES MYLENA
Published: April 2021

O objetivo deste artigo consiste em traçar um panorama da saúde pública da mulher no município de Fortaleza durante o ano de 2019. A saúde pública foi erigida à categoria de direito fundamental de acesso universal a partir do advento da Constituição Federal de 1988. Com o intuito de efetivá-la, foi instituído o Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS), com destaque para a participação das mulheres, principais usuárias. As políticas públicas de saúde, nesse contexto, devem focar nas especificidades desse grupo como forma de corrigir desigualdades de poder entre mulheres e homens. Por meio da coleta de dados estatísticos fornecidos pela Defensoria Pública do Estado do Ceará, o presente tenta demonstrar que o dito sistema, no que tange à saúde da mulher, possui várias deficiências. Com efeito, a Defensoria, desde o ano de 2013, na Comarca de Fortaleza, possui um núcleo de atuação, tanto judicial quanto extrajudicial, nessas demandas. Com fundamento nos dados coletados, observou-se que a busca por atendimentos foi de quase 79% (setenta e nove por cento) do total de atendimentos feitos pelo núcleo. Evidenciou-se, no entanto, que as tais políticas públicas voltadas para mulheres são insatisfatórias. Além da pesquisa empírica, foi feita pesquisa jurisprudencial e bibliográfica.
Investigation of The Effect of Aminoglycosides on Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE)
Authors: ÇİFTÇİ YEGİN Sevim , DEĞER Yeter , DEDE Semiha , YUR Fatmagül
Published: April 2021

Objective: The research attention to nephrotoxicity from antibiotics (as aminoglycosides), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and antifungals, angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Several drugs have resulted in produce an adverse effect on kidneys. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) is a component of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS), which leads to the conversion of angiotensin-I to angiotensin-II in vascular tissues. The present study aimed to determine serum ACE activity in rats with an aminoglycosine.

Material-Method: In this study, two different groups formed, the control group (10 rats/Wistar-albino female) and the experimental group (30 rats/Wistar-albino female) administered aminoglycosine (Amikacin). Aminoglycosine was administered intraperitoneally to the experimental group at a single dose of 15 mg/kg body weight at the same time each day for 14 days. The control group implemented physiological water instead of aminoglycosine at the same rate.

Result: When the groups compared according to the statistic results, it is observed that there was a significant increase in the experimental group according to the control group (p˂0.001).

Conclusion: As a result, it was determined that aminoglycosin administered increased serum ACE activity and it was concluded that it may be useful to investigate the possibilities to evaluate it as a risk factor and indicator in the development of hypertension