bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ICTs, Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence in Inter-National Educational Policies
Authors: Anagnostopoulou Panagiota , Drigas Athanasios
Published: December 2020

The current paper gives a brief description of the position of ICTs, Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence at the inter-National educational policies. Therefore, many researchers note that ICTs, Mindfulness and Emotional Intelligence play a key role in education for sustainable development and benefit both the teachers and the students. Thus, the research team of this paper presents the contribution of the above practices to the personal and academic growth of the students and al-so highlights the efforts of the governments to include them in their policies. Lastly, it is worth noting that the inclusion of these practices to the national poli-cies will eventually lead to a sustainable society and should be a priority for the governments.
Two Column Bases from Mawan in the Hakkâri Province (Southeast corner of Turkey): A new Achaemenid Center?
Authors: Işık Kenan , Genç Bülent , Timur Vedat , Kuvanç Rıfat
Published: December 2020

Bell-shaped column bases are common finds from the Achaemenid Empire centers. These centers were governed either by Persians or local administrators who were dependent on Persia. Two bell-shaped column bases were found in the village of Mawan, 32 km from Şemdinli district of Hakkâri province in Turkey. These column bases are the first Achaemenid finds from the Hakkâri province. Mawan is situated at an important transit point between north-western Iran, eastern Anatolia and northern Iraq. At this point, it is necessary to draw attention to a widespread garrison network of the Achaemenid Empire in the region. Therefore, it is possible to consider the location of the Mawan column bases as the site of a garrison rather than an administrative center.
Early Byzantine Structure at Gerenkuyu Mevkii of Yalı–Bodrum
Authors: Türkoğlu İnci
Published: December 2020

Preparations are underway for a structure in the Gerenkuyu Locality of Yalı neighbourhood in Bodrum district to be restored. The building was first identified as a church of Late Antiquity and registered as cultural property. It features a figural floor mosaic with a pair of leopards jumping onto a crater. Later publications identified it as a bathhouse of the Early Byzantine period. However, during the cleaning work carried out in late 2018 as preparation for a restoration project, new details have been uncovered bringing out the necessity of revising the structure’s function. The author’s proposal for the structure’s function is a countryside residence of a squire from the Early Byzantine period.
Margarita Nelken ou les écritures multiples. Temporalité et engagement
Authors: Bussy Genevois Danièle
Published: December 2020

La notoriété de Margarita Nelken est liée à ses multiples fonctions en tant que députée socialiste de la Seconde République. Cette étude propose une approche différente en analysant ses écrits (féministes, politiques et littéraires), afin de mieux comprendre comment elle s’inscrit dans l’histoire contemporaine, de la Monarchie à la guerre d’Espagne. Il s’agit donc d’éclairer ses engagements culturels et sociaux et d’interpréter ses loyautés politiques successives.
La necesidad de la memoria y el estudio histórico. El caso de la emisora Radio Cádiz y la resistencia al golpe de Estado el 18 de julio de 1936
Authors: Gutiérrez Molina José Luis
Published: December 2020

Décadas de dictadura y otras tantas de silencio democrático han provocado que muchos de los acontecimientos que tuvieron lugar durante el golpe de Estado de julio de 1936 y que le siguieron permanezcan más en el campo de la propaganda y la mentira que en el relato histórico. Esta necesidad de «verdad» es uno de los pilares del llamado movimiento por la memoria histórica. Un caso especialmente relevante para entender lo ocurrido en la ciudad andaluza de Cádiz es el de la lectura de una nota del Gobernador Civil por la emisora local en la que se llamaba a la resistencia. Los golpistas la presentaron como una prueba de la vesania de las autoridades y del caos que se produjo en la ciudad tras el inicio del golpe y la repuesta gubernamental y ciudadana. Su versión ha permanecido en la ciudad como la verdad histórica. Este texto desmonta, a la luz de una documentación encontrada en archivos militares, lo que no ha dejado de ser nunca un elemento de propaganda.
Escritura y lucha armada en la posguerra española: ¡Tortura! (1949)
Authors: Yusta Rodrigo Mercedes
Published: December 2020

Este artículo se propone analizar una novela inédita redactada por un guerrillero antifranquista de la Agrupación Guerrillera de Levante y Aragón durante su estancia en la guerrilla. La novela, titulada ¡Tortura!, es a la vez un exponente de una escritura popular y proletaria, en la línea de la literatura popularizada por colecciones como La novela ideal, y un testimonio de la experiencia de los guerrilleros antifranquistas contada desde el calor de la acción. La lectura y análisis de este documento excepcional nos permite acceder a la subjetividad de un guerrillero antifranquista a través del filtro de la ficción literaria.
El Palacio de las Cortes de Madrid visto por Elías Andrés y Victoria Prego (La Transición, TVE, 1993) : un teatro para la Transición (1975-1981)
Authors: Berthier Nancy
Published: December 2020

La Transición supuso una reapropiación del espacio urbano madrileño bajo el signo de una libertad paulatinamente recobrada. La ciudad se convirtió entonces en un gigantesco «escenario» para la democratización. Por su papel emblemático, el Palacio de las Cortes ocupó un lugar destacado y fue ampliamente filmado. Lo que contribuyó a arraigarlo en el imaginario colectivo como el espacio privilegiado de la democratización del país fue el posterior reciclaje de imágenes cuyo sentido se reelaboró a posteriori. El que propuso la serie documental La Transición (1993, Elías Andrés, Victoria Prego) es particularmente relevante. En éste, el lugar a priori frío y potencialmente aburrido de la racionalidad política se transforma en un auténtico teatro de la democratización en tres actos donde los políticos se convierten en personajes de un drama cargado de emociones, pero con final feliz.
Overview of the italian experience in surgical management of bladder cancer during first month of COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Maccagnano Carmen , Rocchini Lorenzo , Montanari Emanuele , Conti Giario Natale , Petralia Giovanni , Dehò Federico , Bryan Kadi-Ann , Contieri Roberto , Hurle Rodolfo
Published: December 2020

Objective: Overview of bladder cancer (BC) management in Italy during the first month of the COVID-19 pandemic (March 2020) with head to head comparison of the data from March 2019, considered “usual activity” period. The aim is to analyze performance of different Italian Centers in North, Center and South, with a special eye for Lombardy (the Italian epicenter). Patients and methods: During April 2020, a survey containing 14 multiple-choice questions focused on general staffing and surgical activity related to BC during the months of March 2019 and March 2020 was sent to 32 Italian Centers. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics (v26) software. A Medline search was performed, in order to attempt a comparative analysis with published papers. Results: 28 Centers answered, for a response rate of 87.5%. Most of the urology staff in the Lombardy region were employed in COVID wards (p = 0.003), with a statistically significant reduction in the number of radical cystectomies (RC) performed during that time (p = 0.036). The total amount of RC across Italy remained the same between 2019 and 2020, however there was an increase in the number of surgeries performed in the Southern region. This was most likely due to travel restrictions limiting travel the North. The number of Trans-Urethral Resection of Bladder Tumors (TURBT) (p = 0.046) was higher in Academic Centers (AC) in 2020 (p = 0.037).Conclusions: The data of our survey, although limited, represents a snap shot of the management of BC during the first month of the COVD-19 pandemic, which posed a major challenge for cancer centers seeking to provide care during an extremely dynamic clinical and political situation which requires maximum flexibility to be appropriately managed.
The safety and feasibility of the simultaneous use of 180-W GreenLight laser for prostate vaporization during concomitant surgery
Authors: Castellucci Roberto , Marchioni Michele , Fasolis Giuseppe , Varvello Francesco , Ditonno Pasquale , Di Rienzo Gaetano , Greco Francesco , Altieri Vincenzo Maria , Frattini Antonio , Ferrari Giovanni , Schips Luigi , Cindolo Luca
Published: December 2020

Objectives: To explore the safety and feasibility of photo-selective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) with GreenLight XPS 180 Watt laser (GL-180- W XPS) combined with other surgical procedures. Material and methods: Data on patients in whom GL-180-W XPS was performed to relieve lower urinary tract symptoms/ benign prostatic hyperplasia (LUTS/BPH) symptoms were extracted from a multi-institutional database (2011-2016). Patients were stratified into two groups. In the first all patients who had GL-180-W XPS with a concomitant procedure during the same surgical session were included as cases while those who underwent GL-180-W XPS PVP only were included as control. Results: A total of 487 patients were included. Fifty-eight (11.9%) patients underwent concomitant procedures. Multivariable linear regression models failed to find an association between concomitant procedures and longer laser time (p = 0.4). Similarly, multivariable linear regression models failed to find an association between concomitant procedures and laser time even when the analyses were repeated and stratified into endoscopic (p = 0.6) and open/laparoscopic (p = 0.4) procedures. Multivariable logistic regression models failed to demonstrate any association between concomitant procedures and early complications (OR:1.39, CI: 0.379-2.44, p = 0.2), late complications (OR:1.84, CI:0.78-3.98; p = 0.1) and acute urinary retention (OR:1.84, CI:0.78-3.98; p = 0.1). When the analyses were repeated and the concomitant procedures stratified into endoscopic and open/laparoscopic ones, they yielded virtually the same results. Conclusions: GL-180-W XPS PVP could be safely performed in concomitant endoscopic or open/laparoscopic surgery. These results should be taken into consideration in the counseling of the patient who might choose to undergo simultaneous procedures.
Perineural invasion in prostate needle biopsy: Prognostic value on radical prostatectomy and active surveillance
Authors: Ramos Nuno , Macedo Alexandre , Rosa João , Carvalho Miguel
Published: December 2020

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical impact of perineural invasion (PNI) in prostate biopsy in patients submitted to radical prostatectomy and on active surveillance (AS). Materials and methods: We performed a single center, retrospective, cohort study on patients diagnosed with clinically localized prostate cancer and submitted to radical prostatectomy between January 2010 and December 2016. We evaluated clinical and anatomopathological characteristics from the biopsy and radical prostatectomy specimen and correlated with biochemical recurrence (BCR) using a survival analysis. We also evaluated the impact of PNI in patients with criteria for active surveillance. Results: The cohort analyzed consists of 107 patients, with a mean age of 63.1 years and a mean PSA prior to biopsy of 7.8 ng/ml. In prostate biopsy, 66.4% of the patients had a Gleason score of 6, 30.9% had a Gleason score of 7, and 2.7% had a Gleason score of 8 or higher, with PNI being detected in 57 (53.3%) of the patients. Regarding the anatomopathological characteristics of the surgical specimen, invasion of the seminal vesicles was observed in 6.5%, lymph nodes involvement in 9.3% and positive surgical margins in 27.1% of the cases. During follow-up, BCR was recorded in 24.3% of cases. Clinicopathological features were stratified according to the presence or absence of PNI, with statistical significance in relation to the Gleason Score (p = 0.001), pathologic T stage (p = 0.001), D’Amico risk (p = 0.002) and upstaging of the Gleason score (p = 0.045). The survival analysis revealed a relationship between PNI and BCR (hazard ratio = 2.98; 95% CI: 1.36-6.58; p = 0.007). Regarding the men potentially eligible for AS, the presence of PNI on the biopsy presented a significant relation with Gleason upgrade (p = 0.004) and extraprostatic extension (p = 0.017). Conclusions: The presence of PNI in prostate biopsy is related to adverse anatomopathological factors, being a potential predictor of BCR and have a possible role in the selection of patients for AS.
Which factors affect the success of pediatric PCNL? Single center experience over 20 years
Authors: Izol Volkan , Satar Nihat , Bayazit Yıldırım , Gokalp Fatih , Akdogan Nebil , Aridogan Ibrahim Atilla
Published: December 2020

Objective: We aimed to investigate the impact of surgeons’ experience on pediatric percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) outcomes. Materials and methods: Between June 1997 and June 2018, 573 pediatric patients with 654 renal units underwent PCNL for renal stone disease by senior surgeons. Data were divided into two groups, group-1 (n = 267), first ten years period, group-2 (n = 387); second ten years period. Results: Mean ± SD age of patients was 7.6 ± 4.9 (1-17) years. The stone-free rates (SFR) assessed after 4 weeks were 74.9% vs. 83.4% in group-1 vs. group-2, respectively (p = 0.03). The mean operation time, fluoroscopy time, and the number of patients requiring blood transfusion significantly decreased in group 2 (100.4 ± 57.5 vs. 63.63 ± 36.3, 12.1 ± 8.3 vs. 8.3 ± 5.4, and 24.3% vs. 2.9%; p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p = 0.002 in group-1 versus group-2, respectively). On multivariate analysis, increasing stone size increased operation time (p < 0.001), fluoroscopy time (p < 0.001), intraoperative and postoperative blood transfusion rates (p = 0.006 and p = 0.018, respectively), and hospital stay (p = 0.002) but was not associated with change of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) (p = 0.71). Sheath size also correlated with increased fluoroscopy time (p < 0.001), operation time (p < 0.001), intraoperative blood transfusion (p < 0.001) and hospital stay, but sheath size did not affect postoperative blood transfusion (p = 0.614) or GFR change (p = 0.994). Conclusions: The percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is a minimally invasive procedure and is well accepted because of its lower complication rate and high efficiency for pediatric patients. Stone and sheath size are predictive factors for blood loss and hospital stay. During 20 years, our fluoroscopy time, operation time, blood loss, and complication rates decreased, and stone-free rate increased.
Inequalities on partial traces of positive semidefinite block matrices
Authors: Fu Xiaohui , Lau Pan-Shun , Tam Tin-Yau
Published: December 2020

Inequalities on partial traces of positive semidefinite matrices are studied. Extensions of several existing inequalities on the determinant of partial traces are then obtained. Particularly, we improve a determinantal inequality given by Lin [Canad. Math. Bull. 59(2016)].
Electromagnetic Compatibility Measurement Procedure for Vehicle Components--Immunity to Radiated Electromagnetic Fields, 10 kZz to 500 MNz--Tri-Plate Line Method
Authors:   Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) Standards
Published: December 2020

This procedure covers the recommended testing techniques for the determination of electric field immunity of an automotive electronic device. This technique uses a tri-plate line (TPL) from 10 kHz to 500 MHz and is limited to components which have a maximum height of equal to or less than 1/3 the height between the driven element and the outer, grounded plates. A tri-plate line is a variation of a TEM cell design which is constructed without sides to the cell. The TPL sets up a region of uniform electric and magnetic fields between the center septum and the top and bottom grounded plates. One advantage to the use of the TPL as opposed to a TEM cell is that the construction permits large devices to be placed within the cell with their associated cables attached without special feed through ports or adapters as required for a TEM cell. The lack of sides which would be found in a TEM cell permits easy routing of the cables to and from the equipment under test (EUT). The TPL does not have a serious problem with fields reflected from the side wall as does the TEM cell due to the lack of side walls. This permits its use to frequencies above twice the normal useful frequency for a TEM cell of the same physical size. However, the lack of side walls also means that the TPL must be used within a shielded room to prevent radiation from the TPL from interfering with near-by electronic devices. The possibility of room resonances and reflected waves distorting the measurements must not be ignored. This is discussed in greater detail in the body of this document.
Coolant Hose (Supplement to SAE J20 for Government Use Replacing Part of MS52130)
Authors:   Non-Hydraulic Hose Committee
Published: December 2020

This SAE Standard provides ordering information for any SAE 20R1 through SAE 20R4 hose type (such as EC, HT, LT, or combination thereof.) It is a supplement for Government use but may be used by others.
Effects of health education on HIV/AIDS related knowledge among first year university students in China
Authors: Liu Yan , Lu Li , Yuan Wang Yuan , R Wilkinson Meredith , Ren Yan-Ming , Wang Chao-Cai , Zhang Fa-Bin , Gao Jie , Liu Shou
Published: December 2020

Background: The number of new HIV infections has increased and implementation of school-based health education programs on AIDS have been advocated for a long time.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the effectiveness of an intervention of HIV/AIDS on the knowledge of HIV/ AIDS prevention and control among first year university students.

Methods: An awareness questionnaire was adopted to assess awareness and knowledge of HIV/AIDS pre- and post-health education among first year university students in Qinghai, China. Independent sample t-test, chi-square test, and multiple logistic regression analyses were used.

Results: A total of 2,165 and 2,062 first year university students were respectively recruited pre- and post- HIV/AIDS health education. The awareness rate increased significantly after the health education intervention (from 48.59%, 95%CI: 46.47%-50.72% to 76.24%, 95%CI: 74.35%-78.06%). Students from Hui and Tibetan ethnicities, and those holding prej- udices against AIDS patients were less knowledgeable than their counterparts regarding HIV/AIDS related knowledge, whereas urban-dwellers and those with higher paternal education were positively associated with awareness of HIV/AIDS related knowledge (p <0.05).

Conclusion: HIV/AIDS awareness among first year university students improved greatly after receiving an education inter- vention, which underscores its utility as part of the approaches of HIV/AIDS control and prevention.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS knowledge; awareness; health education; university students; China.
Antibiotic prescribing practices in three neonatology units in Kigali, Rwanda. – an observational study
Authors: Thomas Cartledge Peter , Shofel Ruzibuka Fidel , Rutagarama Florent , Rutare Samuel , Rogo Tanya
Published: December 2020

Introduction: There is limited published data on antibiotic use in neonatal units in resource-poor settings.

Objectives: This study sought to describe antibiotic prescribing practices in three neonatology units in Kigali, Rwanda.

Methods: A multi-center, cross-sectional study conducted in two tertiary and one urban district hospital in Kigali, Rwan- da. Participants were neonates admitted in neonatology who received a course of antibiotics during their admission. Data collected included risk factors for neonatal sepsis, clinical signs, symptoms, investigations for neonatal sepsis, antibiotics prescribed, and the number of deaths in the included cohort.

Results: 126 neonates were enrolled with 42 from each site. Prematurity (38%) followed by membrane rupture more than 18 hours (25%) were the main risk factors for neonatal sepsis. Ampicillin and Gentamicin (85%) were the most commonly used first-line antibiotics for suspected neonatal sepsis. Most neonates (87%) did not receive a second-line antibiotic. Cefotaxime (11%), was the most commonly used second-line antibiotic. The median duration of antibiotic use was four days in all sur- viving neonates (m=113). In neonates with negative blood culture and normal C-reactive protein (CRP), the median duration of antibiotics was 3.5 days; and for neonates, with positive blood cultures, the median duration was 11 days. Thirteen infants died (10%) at all three sites, with no significant difference between the sites.

Conclusion: The median antibiotic duration for neonates with normal lab results exceeded the recommended duration mandated by the national neonatal protocol. We recommend the development of antibiotic stewardship programs in neo- natal units in Rwanda to prevent the adverse effects which may be caused by inappropriate or excessive use of antibiotics.

Keywords: (MeSH): Antimicrobial stewardship; anti-bacterial agents; neonatal sepsis; sepsis; infant mortality; neonatal intensive care units; Africa; Rwanda.
Improved antimalarial activity of caprol-based nanostructured lipid carriers encapsulating artemether-lumefantrine for oral administration
Authors: Achile Akpa Paul , Abuchi Ugwuoke Joseph , Amaechi Attama Anthony , Nnenna Ugwu Chinenye , Nneoma Ezeibe Ezinwanne , Audu Momoh Mumuni , Chidiebere Echezona Adaeze , Chimaobi Kenechukwu Franklin
Published: December 2020

Background: Artemether and lumefantrine display low aqueous solubility leading to poor release profile; hence the need for the use of lipid-based systems to improve their oral bioavailability so as to improve their therapeutic efficacy.

Aim and objective: The objective of this work was to utilize potentials of nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) for im- provement of the oral bioavailability of artemether and lumefantrine combination and to evaluate its efficacy in the treat- ment of malaria. This study reports a method of formulation, characterization and evaluation of the therapeutic efficacies of caprol-based NLC delivery systems with artemether and lumefantrine.

Method: The artemether-lumefantrine co-loaded NLCs were prepared using the lipid matrix (5% w/w) (containing beeswax and Phospholipon® 90H and Caprol-PGE 860), artemether (0.1%w/w) and lumefantrine (0.6%w/w), sorbitol (4%w/w), Tween® 80( 2%w/was surfactant) and distilled water (q.s to 100%) by high shear homogenization and evaluated for phys- icochemical performance. The in vivo antimalarial activities of the NLC were tested in chloroquine-sensitive strains of Plasmodium berghei (NK-65) using Peter´s 4-day suppressive protocol in mice and compared with controls. Histopathological studies were also carried out on major organs implicated in malaria.

Results: The NLC showed fairly polydispersed nano-sized formulation (z-average:188.6 nm; polydispersity index, PDI=0.462) with no major interaction occurring between the components while the in vivo study showed a gradual but sus- tained drug release from the NLC compared with that seen with chloroquine sulphate and Coartem®. Results of histopatho- logical investigations also revealed more organ damage with the untreated groups than groups treated with the formulations.

Conclusion: This study has shown the potential of caprol-based NLCs for significant improvement in oral bioavailability and hence antimalarial activity of poorly soluble artemether and lumefantrine. Importantly, this would improve patient com- pliance due to decrease in dosing frequency as a sustained release formulation.

Keywords: Nanostructured lipid carriers; artemether-lumefantrine; malaria; Caprol.
The prevalence of hypertension and influencing factors among the employees of a university hospital
Authors: Kurtul Seher , Kaya Ak Funda , Türk Meral
Published: December 2020

Background: Hypertension is a serious disease with increasing worldwide prevalence, leading to life-threatening complica- tions.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out in a university hospital. The Occupational Health and Safety Unit data concerning the health examinations of employees were used to determine the prevalence of hypertension in a university hospital and to define the relationship between hypertension and sociodemographic and occupational parameters. Logistic regression analyses were performed for the variables having a significant association with high blood pressure.

Results: The data generated during the periodic examination of 3,480 (92%) of all employees (3,780) were analyzed. The prevalence of hypertension was 14.8%. The prevalence of hypertension was found to be 13.5%, 13.9%, and 23.7% among physicians, non-physician healthcare personnel and officers respectively. The logistic regression model revealed a statistically significant correlation between hypertension and male gender, age and BMI.

Conclusion: The prevalence of hypertension was highest among staff members. Special programs would facilitate the diagnosis, control, and prevention of high blood pressure among the high-risk groups, especially men, the elderly and the obese hospital employees.

Keywords: Hypertension; hospital; health care worker.
The relationship between epicardial fat thickness and high-grade varicocele
Authors: Sincer Isa , Erdal Emrah , Gucuk Adnan , Bostancı Emre , Gunes Yilmaz
Published: December 2020

Background: Varicocele is abnormal dilation of testis veins. The precise mechanism of varicocele is not fully understood despite some hypothesis were suggested in the literature. Disequilibrium between constrictor and dilatator mechanism of the veins have been shown to cause varicocele. High-grade varicoceles have been also linked to endothelial dysfunction and increased vasoconstriction.

Objectives: We hypothesized that epicardial fat thickness (EFT), flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) and aortic stiffness (AS) could be associated with varicocele. In the present study, we aimed to compare vascular parameters such as FMD, EFT and AS in healthy subjects and high-grade varicocele patients.

Methods: The study population consisted of 35 men with high-grade varicocele and 32 age- and sex-matched control subjects younger than 45 years old. This is a cross-sectional study conducted at Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal University Hospital between May to October 2018.

Results: EFT, aortic diastolic diameters (AoDD) and EFT/BMI ratio were significantly higher in control group than in pa- tients with high-grade (p=0.012, p=0.044, p=0.026, respectively). EFT and EFT /BMI ratio were significantly and inversely correlated with presence of varicocele (r=-0.422, p=0.009; r=-0.38, p=0.026, respectively).

Conclusion: The present study suggests that high-grade varicocele may be associated with decreased echocardiographic EFT but not with aortic stiffness and FMD.

Keywords: High-grade varicocele; epicardial fat thickness, flow-mediated dilatation, aortic stiffness.
The relationship between sleep quality and dyspnoea severity in patients with COPD
Authors: Kaplan Serin Emine , Derya Ister Emine , Ozdemir Ahmet
Published: December 2020

Objectives: This study aimed to determine sleep quality, frequency and severity of dyspnoea in COPD patients and to eval- uate the relationship between dyspnoea severity and sleep quality.

Method: The sample of the study consisted of 110 patients admitted to the Chest Diseases polyclinic of a private hospital and diagnosed as COPD for at least one year. The data of the study were collected using the "Individual Information Form", "COPD and Asthma Sleep Scale (CASIS)" and "Medical Research Council (MRC) Dyspnoea Scale”.

Results: It was found that 6.4% of the patients did not experience dyspnoea, 34.5% had mild, 40.9% had moderate, and 18.2% had severe dyspnoea. The mean CASIS score of the patients without dyspnoea was 29.08±7.83, with mild dyspnoea was 40.22±9.30, with moderate dyspnoea was 50.31±8.97 and with severe dyspnoea was 56.96±13.13. There was a statisti- cally significant difference between dyspnoea severity and mean CASIS score (p=0.001). Correlation analysis between MRC dyspnoea scale and CASIS score showed a significant positive correlation (r=0.61 p=0.001).

Conclusion: It was concluded that the majority of COPD patients had moderate or poor sleep quality and dyspnoea. As dyspnoea severity increases, sleep quality decreases.

Keywords: Dyspnoea; COPD; Sleep.
BRAFV600E hot spot mutation in thyroid carcinomas: first Moroccan experience from a single-institution retrospective study
Authors: Kaabouch Meryem , Chahdi Hafsa , Azouzi Naima , Oukabli Mohammed , Rharrassi Issam , Boudhas Adil , Jaddi Hassan , Ababou Mouna , Dakka Nadia , Boichard Amélie , Bakri Youssef , Dupuy Corinne , Al Bouzidi Abderrahmane , Ameziane El Hassani Rabii
Published: December 2020

Background: The incidence of thyroid cancer is increasing worldwide at an alarming rate. BRAFV600E mutation is described to be associated with a worse prognostic of thyroid carcinomas, as well as extrathyroidal invasion and increased mortality.

Objective: To our knowledge, there are no reported studies neither from Morocco nor from other Maghreb countries re- garding the prevalence of BRAFV600E mutation in thyroid carcinomas. Here we aim to evaluate the frequency of BRAFV600E oncogene in Moroccan thyroid carcinomas.

Methods: In this Single-Institution retrospective study realized in the Anatomic Pathology and Histology Service in the Mil- itary Hospital of Instruction Mohammed V ‘HMIMV’ in Rabat, we report, using direct genomic sequencing, the assessment of BRAFV600E in 37 thyroid tumors.

Results: We detected BRAFV600E mutation exclusively in Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas ‘PTC’ with a prevalence of 28% (8 PTC out 29 PTC). Like international trends, Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas ’PTC’ is more frequent than Follicular Thyroid Carcinomas ‘FTC’ and Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinomas ‘ATC’ (29 PTC, 7 FTC and 1 ATC).

Conclusion: Our finding gives to the international community the first estimated incidence of this oncogene in Morocco showing that this prevalence falls within the range of international trends (30% to 90%) reported in distinct worldwide ge- ographic regions.

Keywords: Biomarker; BRAFV600E; Thyroid cancer; Morocco.
Congenital infantile digital fibromatosis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: O Adegoke Omolade , E Ajao Akinlabi , H Ano-Edward Gbemi
Published: December 2020

Infantile digital fibromatosis (IDF), also called inclusion body fibromatosis is an uncommon benign tumour occurring in the digits of young children. In about a third of cases, it is congenital and the diagnosis is based on the presence of peculiar intracytoplasmic inclusions on histology. Recurrence rate post-surgery is high. However, spontaneous regression has been reported. We present a case of a 5-month-old infant who had excision of a right second toe mass, which has been present from birth. Histological examination revealed this to be infantile digital fibromatosis. To the best of our knowledge, no report of this has been made in Nigeria. It is important that this diagnosis be entertained in young children with masses on the digits as this will influence the management instituted.

Keywords: Fibromatosis; digits; inclusion body.
Does shared decision making increase prostate screening uptake in countries with a low prevalence of prostate cancer?
Authors: Saad Amin Hussein , Ahmed Arafa Mostafafa , Hamda Farhat Karim , Munther Rabah Danny , Abdullah Altaweel Abdulaziz , Hamed Alhammad Abdulaziz
Published: December 2020

Background: Men over 50 should discuss the benefits and harms of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing with their doctors.

Objectives: To investigate whether shared decision making (SDM) increases the uptake of prostate cancer screening prac- tices among Saudi men.

Methods: This community-based study recruited men aged ≥ 50 years between January and April 2019. Sociodemographic characteristics, history, and current medical condition information were collected. SDM information with regards to prostate cancer screening was discussed.

Results: In total, 2034 Saudi men, aged between 50 and 88 years, agreed to participate in the current study. Prostate exam- ination for early detection of cancer was recommended for 35.4% (720) of subjects. Of the subjects, 23.3% (473) reported that the physicians discussed the advantages and benefits of PSA testing, whereas only 5.6% (114) stated that the physicians explained the disadvantages and drawbacks of PSA testing.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that less than one fourth discussed the advantages and disadvantages of PSA testing with their physicians; of these, less than one third underwent PSA blood tests. Improvements are needed in SDM for and against PSA screening. SDM does not affect the intensity of PSA testing. Primary health care physicians should be actively involved in the SDM process.

Keywords: Decision making; prostate cancer screening; low prevalence countries.
Micro RNAs and the biological clock: a target for diseases associated with a loss of circadian regulation
Authors: Ma Qianwen , Mo Genlin , Tan Yong
Published: December 2020

Background: Circadian clocks are self-sustaining oscillators that coordinate behavior and physiology over a 24 hour peri- od, achieving time-dependent homeostasis with the external environment. The molecular clocks driving circadian rhythmic changes are based on intertwined transcriptional/translational feedback loops that combine with a range of environmental and metabolic stimuli to generate daily internal programing. Understanding how biological rhythms are generated through- out the body and the reasons for their dysregulation can provide avenues for temporally directed therapeutics. Summary: In recent years, microRNAs have been shown to play important roles in the regulation of the circadian clock, particularly in Drosophila, but also in some small animal and human studies. This review will summarize our current un- derstanding of the role of miRNAs during clock regulation, with a particular focus on the control of clock regulated gene expression.

Keywords: MicroRNAs; biological clock; circadian rhythm.
Geographic variation and risk factors for teenage pregnancy in Uganda
Authors: Byonanebye Joseph , Brazauskas Ruta , Tumwesigye Nazarius , Young Staci , May Thomas , Cassidy Laura
Published: December 2020

Background: Teenage pregnancy is a global health issue with high rates in sub-Saharan Africa. In Uganda, teenage pregnan- cy is a public and community health issue.

Objectives: This study hypothesized that there would be regional variations in rates, risk factors and trends of teenage pregnancy in Uganda.

Methods: Data were analyzed from the Uganda Demographic and Health Surveys (UDHS) in 2006 and 2011. The outcome of interest was current pregnancy for females 15 to 19 years of age at the time of the survey. Bivariate analysis was per- formed for each year to examine the rate and trends of pregnancy by various demographic characteristics. Logistic regres- sion was conducted to assess the association between teenage pregnancy and sociodemographic variables.

Results: Uganda’s rate of teenage pregnancy increased from 7.3/1000 in 2006 to 8.1/1000 in 2011. The East Central region consistently had the highest rates than other regions. In 2006, teenage pregnancy was significantly associated with being mar- ried, living with a partner or separated, as compared to those who were single. Marital and wealth status were also significant predictors of teenage pregnancy based on the 2011 survey.

Conclusion: The rate of teenage pregnancy in Uganda is high and the trend demonstrated regional variation. Future inter- ventions could focus on regions with high poverty and low education.

Keywords: Teenage pregnancy; risk factors; Uganda demographic; health survey.
Towards characterization of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in rural Nigeria
Authors: Ngozi Odo Amelia , Ifeanyi Christian Dibia Samuel , Nwanebe Nwagu Evelyn , Umoke MaryJoy , Christian Ifeanachor Umoke Prince
Published: December 2020

Background: Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a public health challenge and seems to be secretly practiced in some rural communities, despite the ban in Nigeria.

Objectives: The study aimed to identify the activities that are involved in FGM, type(s) of FGM practiced and the knowl- edge of health implications of FGM among rural community members in Ebonyi State, Nigeria.

Methods: We employed exploratory design using qualitative technique. In-depth interviews were conducted with 44 adult (18 years and older) volunteers in four rural communities in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. After thematic analysis using NVivo 11 Pro software, eight sub-themes emerged, among which are: types of FGM practiced, seasons for FGM, FGM by health workers and community leaders, punishment for refusing FGM and knowledge of health implications of FGM.

Results: Findings show that FGM is more like a process than just an act, and type most practiced in the study area is Type 1. Circumcisers are health workers and women leaders. Knowledge of health implications of FGM was found to be low among those interviewed.

Conclusion: Based on the findings, we concluded that FGM is still practiced in some rural communities in Nigeria, maybe because of poor knowledge of health implications of FGM.

Keywords: Female genital mutilation; qualitative study; practice; health implications; Nigeria.
Pediatric self-medication use in Rwanda – a cross sectional study
Authors: Ukwishaka Joyeuse , Umuhoza Christian , Cartledge Peter , McCall Natalie
Published: December 2020

Background: Self-medication, a worldwide practice, has both benefits and risks. Many countries have regulated non-pre- scription medications available for use in self-medication. However, in countries such as Rwanda, where prescriptions are not required to purchase medications, prescription, non-prescription and traditional medications have been used for self-medi- cation.

Objectives: To determine the reported self-medication use in Rwanda and to determine attitudes and reasons associated with parental decisions to self-medicate their children.

Methods: A cross-sectional multi-center questionnaire based quantitative study of 154 parents/caregivers of children under ten years undertaken in private and public health facilities.

Results: The use of self-medication was reported to be 77.9%. Among these parents/caregivers, 50.8% used modern self-medication only, 15.8% used traditional self-medication only and 33.3% used both types of self-medication. Paraceta- mol was the most commonly used drug in modern self-medication; the traditional drugs used were Rwandan local herbs. Parents/caregivers who used modern medicines had slightly more confidence in self-medication than self-medication users of traditional medicines (p=0.005). Parents/caregivers who used modern self-medication reported barriers to consultation as a reason to self-medicate more frequently than those who used traditional drugs. Having more than one child below 10 years of-age was the only socio-demographic factor associated with having used self-medication (AOR=4.74, CI: 1.94- 11.58, p=0.001). Being above 30 years (AOR= 5.78, CI: 1.25-26.68, p=0.025) and living in Kigali (AOR=8.2, CI: 1.58-43.12, p=.0.012) were factors associated with preference of modern self- medication compared to traditional self-medication.

Conclusion: Self-medication is common in Rwanda. Parents/caregivers are involved in this practice regardless of their socio-demographic background.

Keywords: Self-medication; medicines; parents; caregivers; children; Nonprescription Drugs; Rwanda.
Modelling CD4 counts before and after HAART for HIV infected patients in KwaZulu-Natal South Africa
Authors: A Yirga Ashenfai , F Melesse Sileshi , G Mwambi Henry , G Ayele Dawit
Published: December 2020

Background: This study aims to make use of a longitudinal data modelling approach to analyze data on the number of CD4+cell counts measured repeatedly in HIV-1 Subtype C infected women enrolled in the Acute Infection Study of the Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa.

Methodology: This study uses data from the CAPRISA 002 Acute Infection Study, which was conducted in South Africa. This cohort study observed N=235 incident HIV-1 positive women whose disease biomarkers were measured repeatedly at least four times on each participant.

Results: From the findings of this study, post-HAART initiation, baseline viral load, and the prevalence of obese nutrition status were found to be major significant factors on the prognosis CD4+ count of HIV-infected patients.

Conclusion: Effective HAART initiation immediately after HIV exposure is necessary to suppress the increase of viral loads to induce potential ART benefits that accrue over time. The data showed evidence of strong individual-specific effects on the evolution of CD4+ counts. Effective monitoring and modelling of disease biomarkers are essential to help inform methods that can be put in place to suppress viral loads for maximum ART benefits that can be accrued over time at an individual level.

Keywords: Random-effects model; spatial covariance structure; CD4+ count; HAART; CAPRISA.
TRAFİK KAZASI SONRASI YETİYİTİMİ YAŞAYAN BİREYLERDE TRAVMA SONRASI GELİŞİM ÜZERİNE BİR GRUP ÇALIŞMASI
Authors: AKARÇAY ULUTAŞ Demet , TUNCAY Tarık
Published: December 2020

Amaç: Bu çalışmanın temel amacı, trafik kazası sonrası yetiyitimi yaşayan bireylerle yürütülen yapılandırılmış grupla sosyal hizmet çalışmasının bireylerin gösterdikleri travma sonrası gelişim ve sosyal işlevselliğe olan etkilerini keşfetmektir. Yöntem: Nitel araştırma desenine uygun olarak tasarlanan çalışmada, gönüllü olan 4 bireyle bilişsel davranışçı yaklaşımın ilke ve tekniklerine dayalı bir grup süreci yürütülmüştür. Grup üyelerinin belirlenmesinde geçirdikleri trafik kazasının üzerinden en az bir yıl geçmiş olması, herhangi bir psikiyatrik tanı almamış ve oral medikasyonla tedavi almıyor olması, kaza nedeniyle görme, işitme kaybı ve zihinsel engelinin bulunmaması, en az 18 yaşında olması, en az ilköğretim mezuniyet derecesine sahip olması şeklinde dahil edilme kriterleri kullanılmıştır. Bulgular: Trafik kazası nedeniyle omurilik yaralanmasına bağlı olarak yetiyitimi yaşayan grup üyelerinin yetiyitimi ile geçirdikleri sürenin 8-20 yıl arasında değiştiği görülmektedir. Grup üyelerinin üçü evli, biri boşanmış ve ikisi ilköğretim, ikisi ise önlisans mezunudur. Üyelerin ifadelerinden aile desteğinin, maneviyatın ve kendilerine sunulan kamusal sosyal destek hizmetlerinin sağ kalımın değerini anlamada yardımcı ve travma sonrası gelişimi artırıcı etkisi olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Sonuç: Çalışılan grup üyelerinde; olumluya odaklanma, sağ kurtulmuş olma fikri, empati örüntüsü, maneviyat, aile desteği ve sosyal çevre olarak görülen gelişim sağlayıcılarının travma sonrası gelişime katkıda bulunduğu söylenebilmektedir. Çalışma için oluşturulan yapılandırılmış izlencenin trafik kazası sonrası yetiyitimi yaşayan bireyler üzerindeki etkilerinin yarı deneysel bir tasarımla ölçümlenmesi, gelecek çalışmalar için önerilmektedir.
TÜRKİYE’DE COVID-19 PANDEMİ SÜRECİNDE DEZAVANTAJLI BİREYLERE YÖNELİK UYGULAMALARIN İNCELENMESİ: “VEFA SOSYAL DESTEK GRUBU” ÖRNEĞİ (DERLEME)
Authors: BİLGE Mehmet
Published: December 2020

Covid-19 salgını bilindiği üzere ilk olarak 27 Aralık 2019’da Çin’in Hubei eyaletinin Wuhan kentinde hayvan pazarı ile ilişkili olduğu düşünülen bir vaka ile ortaya çıkmıştı. Virüsün ilk çıktığı zamanlarda Dünya Sağlık Örgütü (DSÖ) virüsü çok tehlikeli olarak görmese de kısa bir süre sonra yayılımın çok hızlı olması ve etkilerinin özellikle kronik rahatsızlığı olan bireylerde ölümle sonuçlanması salgının pandemi olarak ilan edilmesine neden olmuştur. Güncel olarak halen daha devam eden virüs sadece insan sağlığında değil, gerek ekonomik gerekse sosyal açıdan büyük yaralar açmış, açmaya da devam etmektedir. Bu noktada devletler her alanda önlemlerini almakta olup, sürecin seyrine göre tedbirleri arttırmakta veya azaltmaktadır. Yapılan bu çalışmada sosyal hizmetin pandemi sürecindeki rolleri ele alınarak Türkiye’de pandemi sebebi ile çeşitli sınırlandırmalara tabi tutulan vatandaşların ihtiyaçlarını gidermek için kurulan “Vefa Sosyal Destek Grubu” uygulamasının değerlendirilmesi yapılacaktır.
TÜRKİYE’DEKİ SOSYAL HİZMET UZMANLARININ TOPLUMSAL CİNSİYET ALGISININ BELİRLENMESİ
Authors: GÜZEL Bekir
Published: December 2020

Türkiye’deki sosyal hizmet uzmanlarının toplumsal cinsiyet algı düzeylerinin belirlenmesi amacıyla gerçekleştirilen bu çalışmada 2013 yılında Altınova ve Duyan tarafından geliştirilmiş olan Toplumsal Cinsiyet Algısı Ölçeği kullanılmıştır. Basit seçkisiz örnekleme yönetimi kullanılarak gerçekleştirilen bu araştırmada internet üzerinden çeşitli araçlarla (Facebook, Twitter, e-posta) toplam 339 katılımcıya ulaşılmıştır. Veriler SPSS 21.0 programı kullanılarak analiz edilmiştir. Verilerin normal dağılım göstermediği tespit edildiğinden puanların cinsiyet ve öğrenim düzeyi değişkenlerine göre karşılaştırılmasında Mann Whitney U testinden; yaş grupları, medeni durum, çalıştığı kurum, yaşadığı şehir ve bölge değişkenlerine göre karşılaştırılmasında Kruskal Wallis H testinden yararlanılmıştır. Analizler sonucunda katılımcıların toplumsal cinsiyet algısının yüksek düzeyde olumlu olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Bu bağlamda insan hakları, eşitlik, adalet, bireyin onuru ve saygınlığı gibi temel değerler üzerinde yükselen sosyal hizmet mesleğinin Türkiye özelinde toplumsal cinsiyet konusunda duyarlı profesyoneller tarafından uygulanıyor olduğu sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
COMIC STRIPS IN ELT: REVISITING “THE WHEN AND HOW”
Authors: Novitasari Nine Febrie
Published: December 2020

Few know that comic strips can be used in educational contexts, particularly in English language classrooms. If associated with the purpose of language teaching, the use of comic strips is to facilitate students to develop their three learning domains: cognitive, affective, and psychomotor domains. Integrating comic strips in classroom activities will make the process of learning more meaningful. In Indonesian context, the teaching and learning process utilising comics is still rare to find. Most Indonesian EFL teachers usually only focus on enhancing students’ reading comprehension skill when using comic strips in their teaching. They ignore other objectives such as providing the students’ other language skills, introducing the culture embedded, or sharping students’ learning domains. Such a problem occurs because the teachers do not know and are not sure of how to find good and suitable comics for their students. In addition to that, many teachers admit that it is quite difficult to prove and to convince the parents that comics can be used as stimulating, pedagogically-suitable learning media. Concerning the issue, this paper presents a comprehensive explanation on the nature of comic that suits the purpose of EFL/ESL teaching and and offers some best practices for English teachers to utilize comic strips in their teaching. It is expected that after reading this paper, EFL teachers in Indonesia can explore their belief and practice in implementing comics and bring up a new trend in EFL classroom.