bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Step by Step Guide to Content Analysis for Study Abroad Research
Authors: Inoue Nobue
Published: March 2021

This paper intends to show four practical steps for content analysis; one of the
most common data reduction approaches in qualitative analysis for applied
linguistics. Although content analysis can help to draw conclusions from textual
data by interpreting them effectively, the available literature lacks detail on how
to conduct content analyses, especially in the context of study abroad research.
In this paper, each of the four steps of content analysis (segmenting data,
formulating codes, developing categories, and identifying main themes) is
explained by utilizing actual sample data related to studying abroad; the sample
study investigated a single participant’s perceptions of a general English
language course in the United Kingdom.

本文は、応用言語学の質的研究で最も普及しているデータ削減手法の一つである、
内容分析の実践的な方法について示すものである。内容分析は、テキストデータを
効果的に解釈し、結論の導出に役立つ一方、特に海外留学研究において、内容分析
の方法に関する詳細を説く文献は限られている。そこで本文では、内容分析の 4 段
階（データの分割、コードの作成、カテゴリー化、そしてメインテーマの見極め）
について、留学に関連する実際のサンプルデータを活用して説明を行う。尚、サン
プル研究は、イギリスでの英語研修に関する一人の参加者の見解を調査したもので
ある。
Ensino Remoto Emergencial: experiências de uma educadora na Educação Básica
Authors: Maia Sandra Andréa Berro , Vernier Andréa Magale Berro , Dutra Carlos Maximiliano
Published: March 2021

Este é um relato de experiência com duas turmas de educação básica, sendo um em uma turma de educação infantil, com crianças em idade entre 5 e 6 anos (escola pública), e outro com crianças do primeiro ano, em idade entre 6 e 7 anos (escola privada), em Uruguaiana/RS. Com o isolamento social, fez necessário aplicar estratégias para garantir a continuidade dos estudos, a escola Municipal de Educação Infantil Cecília Meireles adotou o envio de atividades remotas e o Instituto Laura Vicunã, rede privada, adotou a plataforma Clipescola, utilizando a modalidade de planos de estudo seguidos de encontros virtuais. Evidencia-se que neste período de isolamento social devido a Pandemia da COVID-19, os encontros virtuais com aulas síncronas desenvolvidos na instituição privada possibilitam a manutenção da interação aluno-professor e aluno-aluno, mantendo da melhor forma possível os vínculos educacionais e afetivos fundamentais na fase escolar de alfabetização.

Palavras-chave: Atividades remotas. Encontros virtuais. Educação básica.
Genç Sürücülere Yönelik Tutumlar Ölçeğinin Geliştirilmesi
Authors: Deniz Beril , Üzümcüoğlu Zihni Yeşim , Ceylan Batur Suzan
Published: March 2021

Bu araştırmanın amacı, trafikte genç sürücülere yönelik tutumların anlaşılabilmesi için bir ölçüm aracı geliştirmek ve ölçüm aracının geçerlik ve güvenirlik çalışmalarının yapılmasıdır. Çalışmaya 197 kişi katılmıştır. Faktör analizi sonucunda Genç Sürücülere Yönelik Tutum Ölçeği’nin üç faktörden oluştuğu görülmektedir: ihlale yatkın, kaygı uyandıran ve olumlu tutumlar. Güvenirlik için iç tutarlık katsayısı hesaplanmıştır ve sonuçlar yeterli düzeyde bulgulanmıştır. Uyum geçerliği için ölçeğin sürücü davranışları ve sürüş becerileri ile ilişkileri, benzerlik geçerliği için ise sürücü öfke ifadeleri ile ilişkileri incelenmiştir. Yapılan korelasyon ve regresyon analizlerinin sonuçları, geliştirilen ölçeğin geçerli olduğuna işaret etmektedir. Araştırmanın sonuçlarının trafikte karşılaşılan bazı riskli durumların önlenmesine fayda sağlaması hedeflenmektedir. Ayrıca sonuçların, genç sürücülerin güvenli şekilde trafikte yer edinebilmeleri için yapılabilecek uygulamalara da yol göstermesi amaçlanmaktadır.
Chuluun, Sampildondov (ed.): Sar’dagiin khiid. Öndör Gegeen Zanabazariin uran büteeliin khüree. [A Sar’dagiin monostor. Öndör Gegeen Zanabazar művészetének temploma.]
Authors: Szilágyi Zsolt
Published: March 2021

Chuluun, Sampildondov (ed.): Sar’dagiin khiid. Öndör GegeenZanabazariin uran büteeliin khüree. [A Sar’dagiin monostor. ÖndörGegeen Zanabazar művészetének temploma.]Ulaanbaatar, Shinjlekh Ukhaani Akademi,Tüükh, Ugsaatni Zuin Khüreelen, 2019. 488 oldal
Lopás vagy lopás kísérlete?
Authors: Herman Szilárd
Published: March 2021

The author focuses on the theoretical and practical questions concerning the how a complete and an attempted theft is distinguished in Hungarian law and practice.
Art Collecting by the Galician Jewish Aristocracy: From Majer Jerachmiel von Mises to Artur Lilien-Brzozdowiecki
Authors: Kravtsov Sergey R.
Published: March 2021

This article discusses the construction of a Jewish aristocratic identity through art collecting and patronage, in parallel with other “aristocratic” activities and lifestyles. The focus is a particular Galican family ennobled by Franz Joseph I in 1881. The family’s ambitions and achievements are known from a memoir by Artur Lilien-Brzozdowiecki (1890, Lviv-1958, London), who was a great-great-grandson of the community head Rachmiel von Mises (1800-1891), a distant cousin of the artist Moses Ephraim Lilien (1874-1925), and a grandson of the banker Ignacy Lilien, who financed Moses Ephraim’s education. The article considers the self-construction of the family members as art connoisseurs and artists. These included the banker, industrialist, artist, and art collector Maurycy Nierenstein (1840-1917); painter Helene von Mises (1883-1942); architect Marya Lilien (1900-1998); and economist, lawyer, army officer, and collector Artur Lilien-Brzozdowiecki.
Jewish Art Collectors in Poland and the Works of Maksymilian Gierymski before World War II
Authors: Krypczyk-De Barra Aleksandra
Published: March 2021

From the end of the nineteenth century and up to the beginning of World War II, many of Maksymilian Gierymski’s (1846-1874) works were part of the collections of respected Jewish collectors, including Maksymilian Adam Oderfeld, Edward Rejcher, Stanisław Rotwand, Adolf Peretz, and Abe Gutnajer. They combined buying Polish art with providing financial support for many Polish cultural institutions. Thanks to these collectors the Polish public had better knowledge of Gierymski’s art. They bought his works at a time when the best examples of his oeuvre were abroad. 1939 was a tragic turning point for their activity. Collections were destroyed or stolen, including Gierymski’s work, and most of these items were not catalogued. Nevertheless, the collectors’ knowledge, passion, and expertise raised the bar for standards in Polish art collecting generally. The forgotten activity of Poland’s Jewish collectors is an essential part of the history of nineteenth-century Polish art.
In the Trenches of the Solar–Stellar Connection. III. The HST/COS Ecliptic-poles Stellar Survey (EclipSS)
Authors: Ayres Thomas R.
Published: March 2021

The Ecliptic-poles Stellar Survey (EclipSS) collected far-ultraviolet (FUV: 1160–1420 Å) spectra of 49 nearby (d ≲ 100 pc) F3–K3 main-sequence stars, located at high ecliptic latitudes (north and south), using the Cosmic Origins Spectrograph of the Hubble Space Telescope. The ecliptic poles receive higher exposures from scanning missions like the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (high-precision optical photometry) and Extended Roentgen Survey with an Imaging Telescope Array (X-ray monitoring), which can deliver crucial contextual information, not otherwise easily secured. The objective was to support theoretical studies of stellar hot outer atmospheres—chromospheres (∼104 K) and coronae (≳1 MK)—which, among other things, can adversely impact exoplanets via host-star “space weather.” Flux–flux diagrams (e.g., C ii 1335 Å versus O i 1306 Å) were constructed for the EclipSS stars, solar Cycle 23/24 irradiances, and long-term FUV records of α Cen A (G2 V) and B (K1 V). The EclipSS cohort displays similar minimum (“basal”) fluxes to the Sun and solar twin α Cen A, in chromospheric O i 1306 Å. In hotter C ii 1335 Å, a downward slump of the basal fluxes—noted in previous, less controlled surveys—can now be explained as an effect of subsolar abundances. The consistent basal minima in chromospheric and higher temperature species at solar metallicity favor the idea that stellar analogs of the solar supergranulation network provide a baseline of high-energy emissions. The magnetic network is replenished by a “local dynamo” independently of the stellar spin. It can operate even when the starspot-spawning internal dynamo has ceased cycling, as during the Sun’s 17th century Maunder Minimum.
Hybrid Accretion of Carbonaceous Chondrites by Radial Transport across the Jupiter Barrier
Authors: van Kooten Elishevah , Schiller Martin , Moynier Frédéric , Johansen Anders , Haugbølle Troels , Bizzarro Martin
Published: March 2021

Understanding the origin of chondritic components and their accretion pathways is critical to unraveling the magnitude of mass transport in the protoplanetary disk, as well as the accretionary history of the terrestrial planet region and, by extension, its prebiotic inventory. Here we trace the heritage of pristine components from the relatively unaltered CV chondrite Leoville through their mass-independent Cr and mass-dependent Zn isotope compositions. Investigating these chondritic fractions in such detail reveals an onion-shell structure of chondrules, which is characterized by 54Cr- and 66Zn-poor cores surrounded by increasingly 54Cr- and 66Zn-rich igneous rims and an outer coating of fine-grained dust. This is interpreted as a progressive addition of 54Cr- and 66Zn-rich, CI-like material to the accretion region of these carbonaceous chondrites. Our findings show that the observed Cr isotopic range in chondrules from more altered CV chondrites is the result of chemical equilibration between the chondrules and matrix during secondary alteration. The 54Cr-poor nature of the cores of Leoville chondrules implies formation in the inner solar system and subsequent massive outward chondrule transport past the Jupiter barrier. At the same time, CI-like dust is transferred inward. We propose that the accreting Earth acquired CI-like dust through this mechanism within the lifetime of the disk. This radial mixing of the chondrules and matrix shows the limited capacity of Jupiter to act as an efficient barrier and maintain the proposed noncarbonaceous and carbonaceous chondrite dichotomy over time. Finally, also considering current astrophysical models, we explore both inner and outer solar system origins for the CV chondrite parent body.
Be It Unresolved: Measuring Time Delays from Lensed Supernovae
Authors: Bag Satadru , Kim Alex G. , Linder Eric V. , Shafieloo Arman
Published: March 2021

Gravitationally lensed Type Ia supernovae (SNe Ia) may be the next frontier in cosmic probes, able to deliver independent constraints on dark energy, spatial curvature, and the Hubble constant. Measurements of time delays between the multiple images become more incisive due to the standardized candle nature of the source, monitoring for months rather than years, and partial immunity to microlensing. While currently extremely rare, hundreds of such systems should be detected by upcoming time domain surveys. Others will have the images spatially unresolved, with the observed lightcurve a superposition of time-delayed image fluxes. We investigate whether unresolved images can be recognized as lensed sources given only lightcurve information, and whether time delays can be extracted robustly. We develop a method that we show can identify these systems for the case of lensed SNe Ia with two images and time delays exceeding ten days. When tested on such an ensemble, without microlensing, the method achieves a false-positive rate of ≲5%, and measures the time delays with a completeness of ≳93% and with a bias of ≲0.5% for Δt
fit ≳ 10 days. Since the method does not assume a template of any particular type of SN, the method has the (untested) potential to work on other types of lensed SNe systems and possibly on other transients as well.
Triplophysa wulongensis, a new species of cave-dwelling loach (Teleostei, Nemacheilidae) from Chongqing, Southwest China
Authors: Chen Shijing , Sheraliev Bakhtiyor , Shu Lu , Peng Zuogang
Published: March 2021

We describe a new species of cave-dwelling loach, Triplophysa wulongensissp. nov., based on specimens collected in a subterranean pool in a cave in Wulong County, Chongqing, Southwest China. The pool is connected to the Wujiang River drainage. Triplophysa wulongensis differs from its congeners by the following combination of characters: eyes present, caudal fin with 18 branched rays; posterior chamber of the air bladder degenerate; stomach U-shaped; intestine without bends or loops immediately posterior to stomach; body smooth and scaleless, and lateral line complete. The mitochondrial cytochrome b sequence differs from those of other published sequences of species of Triplophysa by 14.9–24.9% in K2P distance. Phylogenetic analysis based on cytochrome b gene sequences recovered T. wulongensis as sister taxon to all other cave-dwelling species of Triplophysa.
Une perspective malthusienne du repeuplement après l’expulsion des Morisques d’Espagne, 1610-1800
Authors: Marco-Gracia Francisco J. , Guerrouche Karine
Published: March 2021

L’expulsion des Morisques du Royaume d’Aragon en 1610 a vidé de nombreux villages de leurs habitants, que les autorités se sont rapidement efforcées de repeupler en proposant des parcelles « bon marché ». Néanmoins, les nouveaux habitants étant bien moins nombreux que les Morisques expulsés, l’offre de logements et de terres a excédé la demande. Cet article examine le rôle des freins préventifs malthusiens dans ce contexte de faible pression démographique. À l’aide de la méthode de reconstitution des familles qui permet de relier entre elles les micro-données issues des registres paroissiaux, on compare cinq villages repeuplés et trois villages chrétiens voisins n’ayant pas eu de Morisques expulsés. Comme les villages repeuplés affichent un taux d’accroissement de la population plus rapide que les autres villages, on tente de déterminer l’origine de cette différence. Les résultats confirment qu’un assouplissement des freins préventifs malthusiens s’est produit avec l’abaissement de l’âge au mariage et du taux de célibat, conduisant à une augmentation de la fécondité légitime. Cependant, le pourcentage d’émigrants plus important dans les villages repeuplés que dans les autres a freiné la croissance de la population. La situation économique moins favorable dans les villages repeuplés, vérifiée par les testaments, explique sans doute cette tendance.
Insects as food and feed: a promising agricultural sector with special reference to India
Authors: Deka B. , Tomberlin J.K. , Babu A.
Published: March 2021

Edible insects are natural resources that provide foodstuff to numerous ethnic groups in rural India. In spite of the dietary and ecological repayment, the consumption of insects is still restricted to a limited number of countries globally. Apart from the establishment of consumer acceptance, research is necessary to develop sophisticated and automatise cost-effective production of insect products. Insects have massive prospects as feed. As the protein feed ingredients are becoming expensive, several studies are in progress to establish insects as feed in the Indian market. Insect food and feed industry could be a proficient approach to consign the cost of living for the price-sensitive customers. Cross-linking between the industries and the farmers would be helpful for boosting the production rate of insect products. Extensive and systematic study of the edible insects would be desirable to ascertain food security and elude possible risks.
Professional Identity During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Nurses in China
Authors: Zhang Feifei , Zuo Qiantao , Cheng Jingxia , Li Zhuyue , Zhu Longling , Li Yingying , Xuan Lijuan , Zhou Yu , Jiang Xiaolian
Published: March 2021

Background

Emergency and intensive care unit nurses are the main workforce fighting against COVID-19. Their professional identity may affect whether they can actively participate and be competent in care tasks during the pandemic.

Objective

To examine the level of and changes in professional identity of Chinese emergency and intensive care unit nurses as the COVID-19 pandemic builds.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey composed of the Professional Identity Scale for Nurses plus 2 open-ended questions was administered to Chinese emergency and intensive care unit nurses through an online questionnaire.

Results

Emergency and intensive care unit nurses had a medium level of professional identity. Participants’ total and item mean scores in 5 professional identity dimensions were higher than the professional identity norm established by Liu (P < .001). The greatest mean item score difference was in the dimension of professional identity evaluation (3.57 vs 2.88, P < .001). When asked about their feelings witnessing the COVID-19 situation and their feelings about participating in frontline work, 68.9% and 83.9%, respectively, reported positive changes in their professional identity.

Conclusions

The professional identity of emergency and intensive care unit nurses greatly improved during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic. This finding may be attributed to more public attention and recognition of nurses’ value, nurses’ professional fulfillment, and nurses’ feelings of being supported, motivated, respected, and valued.
Table of Contents Vol 43, No 1 (2020)
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: March 2021

not available
New Drug Update 2020
Authors: Hussar Daniel A. , Finn Laura A.
Published: March 2021

Five new drugs marketed within the last year that are used for medical problems often experienced by older people have been selected for consideration in this review. The uses and most important properties of these agents are discussed, and a rating for each new drug is determined using
the New Drug Comparison Rating (NDCR) system developed by the author (DAH). Advantages, disadvantages, and other important information regarding each new drug are identified and used as the basis for determining the rating. The drugs considered include new agents indicated for the treatment
of patients with hypercholesterolemia, Parkinson’s disease, insomnia, schizophrenia, and age-related macular degeneration.
Making Medicare Better for Older People
Authors: Baldwin Paul
Published: March 2021

This month's column examines the impact that the coronavirus had on long-term care facilities and the necessary changes needed for Medicare to improve.
Applications of Propolis in Dentistry: A Review
Authors: Abbasi Amir Jalal , Mohammadi Farnoush , Bayat Mohamad , Gema Shimelis Megersa , Ghadirian Hannaneh , Seifi Hasti , Bayat Hananeh , Bahrami Naghmeh
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Propolis is a resinous substance obtained from the beehives that has antioxidant, anti-bacteria, anti-virus, antifungal, anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to review the studies about the role of propolis in improving dental and oral health.METHODS: This study reviewed the published articles regarding the applications of propolis in dentistry. An electronic search of the literature was carried out in Farsi electronic databases includingGoogle, Medlib.ir, SID, Iranmedex and Magiran as well as English electronic databases such as PubMed and ISI Web of Knowledge.These databases were searched for articles published between 1997and October 20, 2017. Non-dental books and journals were also manually searched.RESULTS: This study reviewed published articles on the efficacy of propolis for surgical wound healing, caries prevention, treatment of dentin hypersensitivity, treatment of aphthous ulcers and propolis as a storage medium for avulsed teeth, root canal irrigating solution and mouthwash.CONCLUSION: The result of the reviewed article showed that propolis is effective an agent that is used for multiple purpose in oral health.KEYWORDS: Propolis, Dentistry, Honeybee, Oral health
Fibroplasia Ossificans Progressiva: A Case Report of a Rare Disease Entity
Authors: Solomon Daniel , Wakjira Iyasu , Hailu Daniel , Gorfy Yocabel
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), also known as Myositis ossificans progressiva or Munchmeyer's disease, is an extremely rare and disabling genetic condition of congenital skeletal malformations and progressive heterotopic ossification (HO). The disease is characterized by congenital skeletal anomalies and progressive ectopic bone formation in connective tissues such as ligaments, muscles and tendons. The disease has an incidence of about 1 in 2 million population.CASE DETAILS: We report a case of a 2-year and 8-month old male child with an initial diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma based on fine needle aspiration (FNAC) of neck swelling.CONCLUSION: Fibroplasia ossificans progressive (FOP) characteristically manifests with bilateral malformation of the great toe and progressive heterotopic ossification (HO). Clinicians and radiologists should be aware of these to prevent permanent disability.KEYWORDS: Fibroplasia ossificans progressive, myositis ossificans
Utilization of Institutional Delivery Service in a Predominantly Pastoralist Community of Northeast Ethiopia
Authors: Ahmed Mohammed , Demissie Meaza , Medhanyie Araya Abrha , Worku Alemayehu , Berhane Yemane
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Maternal mortality is high in sub-Saharan Africa, and most deaths occur around childbirth. In Ethiopia, most births happen at home without skilled delivery attendants, and particularly, the least utilization of skilled delivery is recorded in Afar Region. The factors that influence this utilization are not well documented in the region where utilization has been low. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of utilization of institutional delivery and associated factors.METHODS: A cross-section study with pretested structural questionnaire was conducted from August 5 to September 27, 2015, among women who gave birth within 24 months preceding the survey. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was done to identify factors associated with utilization of institutional delivery.RESULTS: Out of the total 1842 women, only 339(18.4%) of mothers reported having delivered their youngest child at a health facility. Home delivery was preferred due to cultural norms, lowrisk perception, and distance from a health facility. The odds of delivering in a health facility were higher for mothers who attended at least four antenatal visits during the index pregnancy (AOR=3.08,95%CI=1.91-4.96), those whose husbands were educated to secondary school (AOR= 1.86, 95% CI=1.34-2.60), and those that had at least secondary school level education themselves (AOR=1.52, 95% CI=1.03-2.23).CONCLUSION: Utilization of institution delivery among Afar communities is very low, and less educated mothers are lagging behind. Women’s education and full attendance to antenatal care can help increase utilization of skilled delivery services. Qualitativestudies to identify socio-cultural barriers are also essential.
Knowledge and Healthcare Seeking Behavior of Tuberculosis Patients attending Gimbi General Hospital, West Ethiopia
Authors: Badane Asmamaw Abayneh , Dedefo Mohammed Gebre , Genamo Edao Sado , Bekele Nigatu Addisu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) now ranks alongside HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) as a leading cause of death worldwide. Globally, 9.6 million people were estimated to have fallen ill with TB in 2014. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge and healthcare seeking behaviour of tuberculosis patents in Gimbi General Hospital, West Ethiopia.METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted among tuberculosis patients from March 8 to April 30, 2015. The data collection method was face-to-face interview through structuredstandard questionnaire. To identify the factors associated with knowledge about TB and healthcare seeking behavior, backward logistic regression analysis was used.RESULTS: Of the 138 TB patients, 85(61.6%) had good knowledge about TB while 53(38.4%) had poor knowledge about TB. On multivariable logistic analysis, poor knowledge about TB was more likely to occur among TB patients in intensive treatment phase (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR)=4.1, 95% CI= 1.7-9.6, p=0.001).CONCLUSION: TB patients had good knowledge on signs and symptoms of TB, transmission of TB and healthcare seeking behaviour of TB, but their knowledge on the cause of TB, treatment of TB and prevention of TB were not adequate. This study also revealed that the health careseeking behaviour of TB patients were good.
Short-term Persistence of Protective Maternally Acquired Immunity in Neonates Delivered by Primiparous Women in Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Orimadegun Adebola Emmanuel , Orimadegun Bose Etaniamhe , Bamgboye Elijah Afolabi
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Unresolved questions remain concerning the protective effect and duration of immunity acquired from mothers. This study investigated persistence of immunity against tetanus in the first two weeks of life among neonates in Nigeria.METHODS: In a longitudinal study, 244 primiparous mothers and their newborns were consecutively recruited at 16 selected Primary Healthcare Centres in Ibadan, Nigeria. All the newborns were tested for protection against tetanus using a validated rapid diagnostic, “Tetanos Quick Sticks” (TQS) on days 1, 7 and 14. Persistent immunity was defined as positive TQS result on day-14. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square and logistic regression at p = 0.05.RESULTS: There were 137(56.1%) male neonates; 87.7% were delivered at ≥37weeks of gestation. The prevalence of protective immunity against tetanus (PIaT) among neonates on day-1 was 63.5%; 119 out of 153 neonates remained positive to TQS test by day-14, giving a persistence rate of 77.8%. Independent predictors of persistent PIaT were residence in urban area (OR = 9.66; 95% CI = 2.42-38.45), maternal age (OR = 2.06; 95% CI = 1.49-2.85) and gestational age (OR = 1.84; 95% CI = 1.23-2.74).CONCLUSION: Protective immunity against tetanus waned in some neonates over the first two weeks of life, and this decline was inversely related to maternal and gestational ages.
Cytological Smear and Cell Block Versus Tissue Biopsies in the Diagnosis of Malignant Tumours in Non-Gynaecologic Specimens
Authors: Alwahaibi Nasar , Alghallabi Asmaa , Alsinawi Shadia , Aldairi Najat
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Cytological smear and cell block (CB) are routinely used to diagnose non gynaecologic specimens. However, there is scanty information in the literature to compare cytological smear and CB with the corresponding tissue biopsies. This study is aimed at evaluating the accuracy of cytological smear and CB in the diagnosis of malignant tumours in non-gynaecologic specimens.MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 70 malignant cases were subjected to cytological smear and CB. Corresponding histopathology was also included. The most frequent immunomarkers found between CB and tissue biopsies were also correlated. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, false positive and false negative values were analyzed for each method.RESULTS: The accuracy, sensitivity and positive predictive value for cytological smear were 92.8%, 100.0% and 92.9%, whereas for CB were 91.4%, 98.4% and 92.7%, respectively. In CB method, the accuracy, sensitivity and positive predictive value for CK7 were 88.9%, 91.7% and 95.6%, whereas for CK5/6 were 75%, 100% and 57.1%, respectively.CONCLUSION: Cytological smear and CB are very sensitive and accurate in the detection of malignant tumours in nongynaecologic specimens. Additional corresponding tissue biopsiesshould be re-evaluated.
Asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection and poor school performance in primary school children in the Volta Region of Ghana
Authors: Verner Orish , Aho Kokou Amegan , Jones Ofori-Amoah , James Osei-Yobah , Ibrahim Jamfaru , Innocent Afeke , Lennox Mac-Ankrah , Festus Adzaku
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the association between asymptomatic Plasmodium falciparum infection and poor intellectual development in primary school children in the Volta Region of Ghana.METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among children from 5 primary schools in 3 districts in the Volta region of Ghana. Questionnaires were administered, and blood samples collected for malaria investigation using Rapid diagnostic test (RDT) and microscopy. School performance was used to assess intellectual development in the children. Arithmetic was the subject of choice for the standardized test. Pearson chi square test was used to evaluate the association between Plasmodium falciparum and poor school performance. Multivariate analysis was used to identify factors independently associated with risk of poor school performance.RESULTS: Out of 550 children, 305(55.45%) tested positive for malaria with RDT and 249(45.27%) positive with microscopy. Children from the Evangelical Presbyterian (EP) primary school in Afegame had the highest prevalence of Plasmodium falciparum infection with both RDT (92, 74.80%) and microscopy (73, 59.35%). Two hundred and fifteen students (39.09%) failed the arithmetic school test. EP primary school in Afegame recorded the highest frequency of poor school performance among the children (53.66%). School performance was significantly associated with RDT malaria diagnosis with failure rate higher among children who were RDT positive (135, 62.79%, p=0.005). Lower mean scores were seen in children with positive RDT result (47.35, [SD 30.85], p=0.021). Plasmodium falciparum infection (RDT) was independently associated with increased risk of poor school performance (AOR, 1.92, p=0.003).CONCLUSION: An urgent scale-up of malaria control program targeting school-going children in this region is needed to mitigate the possible negative impact of Plasmodium falciparum infection on their intellectual development.
Challenges of PMTCT Service Utilization in Amhara Region: A Comparative Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Feleke Berhanu Elfu , Wasie Belaynew
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Globally, 370,000 children became newly infected with HIV and an estimated 42,000-60,000 pregnant woman died because of HIV annually. Pediatric HIV infection in 90% of the cases was acquired from their mothers.METHODS: Comparative cross-sectional study design was implemented. Epi-info software was used to calculate the sample size, and the estimated sample size was 2667 pregnant women. Data were collected using exit interview technique. Descriptive statistical techniques were used to identify the prevalence of PMTCT service utilization and binary logistic regression was used to identify the determinants of PMTCT service utilization.RESULTS: A total of 2615 respondents were included for a response rate of 98.05%. Only 61.3% of the pregnant women attending ANC in the health facility were utilizing PMTCT services [95% CI: 59 %-63 %]. Around 3.22% of tested pregnant women did not receive their result. PMTCT service utilization was affected by knowledge of PMTCT [AOR 1.87, 95 % CI: 1.53-2.28], residence [AOR 0.67, 95 % CI: 0.51-0.89], internal referral system [AOR 3.06, 95% CI: 2.51-3.72], health professional client interaction [AOR 2.18, 95% CI: 1.75 2.76], fear [AOR 1.23, 95% CI: 1.03-1.47], long waiting time [AOR 0.74, 95% CI: 0.58-0.94], number of ANC visit [AOR 1.79, 95% CI: 1.4-2.29], gravidity [AOR 0.55, 95% CI: 0.46-0.66], educational status [AOR 1.43, 95% CI: 1.04-1.96] and involvement in PMTCT services [AOR 2.57, 95% CI: 1.51-4.4].CONCLUSION: PMTCT service utilization was low in the study area. The presence of internal referral system significantly increases PMTCT service utilization.
Beneficial Role of Hydro-alcoholic Seed Extract of Trigonella foenum graecum on Bone Structure and Strength in Menopause Induced Osteopenia
Authors: K Anjaneyulu , Bhat Kumar MR , SR Srinivasa , RA Devkar , T Henry
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: The current strategies to prevent and treat menopausal osteoporosis are hormone replacement therapy (HRT). However, the long-term use of hormone replacement therapy is limited due to its side-effects. Alternately, use of phytoestrogens has been implicated. Trigonella foenum graecum (TFG) seeds are rich in phytoestrogen and known traditional medicine to treat menopause induced hyperlipidemia. Therefore, in this study, we evaluated the role of dietary TFG seed extract on bone structure and mechanical properties in ovariectomized rats.METHODS: Twenty four female Wistar rats were randomly allocated into four groups; 1) control, 2) ovariectomized, 3) ovariectomized + TFG seed extract and 4) ovariectomized + 17β-estradiol. TFG seed extract/17β-estradiol was administered for 30 days, 14 days after ovariectomy. After the treatment, right femora were collected to measure the length and biomechanical properties, and left femora were gathered to study the micro architectural changes while tibia were collected to measure the dry weight.RESULTS: Maximum flexor load to break femur bone was significantly low in ovariectomized rats in comparison with control rats (P<0.05). Supplementation with TFG significantly improved the maximum flexor load (P<0.05) and tibia dry weight (P<0.01) compared to ovariectomized untreated rats. TFG administration also significantly preserved the trabecular (P<0.01) and cortical bone (P<0.05) thickness compared to ovariectomized rats.CONCLUSION: This study found that dietary intake of TFG seeds can improve the bone structure and biomechanical properties in ovariectomized rats indicating that TFG may be an alternative treatment strategy to prevent the menopause induced osteopenia.
Factors Influencing Prescribing Decisions of Physicians: A Review
Authors: Davari Majid , Khorasani Elahe , Tigabu Bereket Molla
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: The pharmaceutical bill is increasing at an alarming rate. The physician practice variation has a pronounced effect on healthcare spending. A number of factors can influence the prescribing behavior of physicians. The aim of this review was to identify the factors affecting the prescribing decision of physicians.METHODS: Electronic databases including Scopus, PubMed/MEDLINE CENTRAL, Cochrane Libraries and Google scholar were searched systematically for literatures on factors influencing prescribing decisions of physicians from 2000 to 2016. There was no restriction on the study designs.RESULTS: Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria from 1122 search results. A total of 33 factors were identified. The most frequent factors were patients’ clinical condition, pharmaceutical industries, physician attributes, patient preference and cost of medicine.CONCLUSION: Physicians’ personal attributes, cost of the medicine and pharmaceutical industries’ marketing and promotion strategies were mostly mentioned to influence prescribing decision. The identified factors showed that prescribing is not only geared for patient benefit, but also towards personal interest. The use of valid and reliable practice guidelines could reduce the negative impact of wide ranges of factors and promote the rational prescribing effectively.
Prevalence and Trends of Major Transfusion Transmissible Infections among Blood Donors in Dire Dawa Blood bank, Eastern Ethiopia: Retrospective Study
Authors: Ataro Zerihun , Urgessa Fekadu , Wasihun Tagesachew
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Acquisition of transfusion transmissible infections in the process of therapeutic blood transfusion is a major global health challenge in transfusion medicine. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and trends of major transfusion transmissible infections among blood donors.METHOD: A retrospective analysis of consecutive blood donors’ records covering the period between July 2010 and June 2013 was conducted at Dire Dawa Blood Bank, Eastern Ethiopia.RESULT: A total of 6376 blood donors were tested, out of which 5647(88.57%) were replacement donors and 729(11.43%) were voluntary donors. The majority of them were male, 5430(85.16%), and aged between 18–32 years, 4492(70.45%). A total of 450(7.06%) donors had serological evidence of infection with at least one pathogen. The overall positivity rates of HBV, HIV, HCV and syphilis were 4.67%, 1.24%, 0.96%, and 0.44% respectively. Trends for transfusion-transmissible infections showed a significant decrease from 9.51% in 2010 to 6.95% in 2013 with the least prevalence in 2012 (5.90% (P = 0.004). The prevalence of transfusion transmissible infections was significantly higher among male blood donors compared to female donors, among the age group of 25-32 years and 33-40 years compared to the age group of 18-24 years old, and among unemployed and private workers compared to students.CONCLUSION: A significant percentage of the blood donors harbor transfusion-transmissible infections. Stringent donor selection using standard methods is highly recommended to ensure the safety of blood for the recipient. Furthermore, efforts on motivating and creating awareness in the community are required to increase voluntary blood donors.
Toxic Effects of Different Doses of Cyclophosphamide on Liver and Kidney Tissue in Swiss Albino Mice: A Histopathological Study
Authors: Bhat Nandini , Kalthur Sneha Guruprasad , Padmashali Supriya , Monappa Vidya
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Cyclophosphamide (CPA) is an anti- cancer drug, used in chemotherapy. This is a toxic drug which targets the cancer cells and also the normal cells of the body. The original compound is inactive in vitro and exercises its biologic action through metabolites, chiefly phosphoramide mustard. The objective is to study the harmful effects of this drug on liver and kidney tissues.METHODS: To study the effect of cyclophosphamide on histology of liver and kidney, 40 adult male mice were taken and divided into two groups: control and test. Those in the test group were injected with the drug at doses of 100, 200, 250 mg/kg body weight. They were then sacrificed on day 7, 28 and 42. The liver and kidney tissue was processed, sectioned and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin.RESULTS: Pathological changes were seen in the tissue within 7 days in high doses and after 28 days in low doses. As the dosage and the days administered increased, the changes were prominently seen and widespread. Pathology ranging from mild infiltration to necrosis and finally cytolysis were seen in liver and kidney tissue.CONCLUSION: Our study has demonstrated the effect of a progressive increase in dosage of cyclophosphamide in albino mice, and pathological alterations were observed in histology of liver and kidney by sequentially increasing both the dosage and duration of treatment. Subsequently, regular monitoring of liver and kidney function tests in patients undergoing chemotherapeutic regimen with administration of ahepato and nephroprotective agent becomes vital.
Cosmetic Use and Its Adverse Events among Female Employees of Jimma University, Southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Getachew Mestawet , Tewelde Tsegaye
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Cosmetics is applied to human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness or altering appearance. Cosmetics is causing alarming adverse events to its users, yet evidence about its magnitude and cosmetic use among female employees in Ethiopia is limited. Therefore, this study was aimed at determining cosmetic use and its adverse events among female employees of Jimma University.METHOD: A cross-sectional study was done among female employees from December 2016 to January 2017. Samples of 426 participants were selected using stratified simple random sampling from all colleges, and data were collected using self-administered questionnaire. Descriptive statistics was used to compute proportions and logistic regression to assess the determinants of cosmetics-related adverse events.RESULTS: A total of 387 females were participated, making a 90.8% response rate. The majority (80.1%) were using at least one cosmetic product, and 39.0% of them were between 25-29 years. The majority (86.6%) of the respondents used toothpaste, lotion, lipstick, or eye makeup. Cosmetics related adverse events were experienced by 19.0% of the respondents primarily on face and hairs. Lotion and hair cosmetics were the primary perceived causes of adverse events. Employees who had monthly income between 1000 and 3000 ETB (AOR=3.4; 95% CI: 1.4-8.4), above 3000 ETB (AOR=4.7; 95% CI: 1.8-12.2) and those who used traditional cosmetics (AOR=4.5; 95% CI: 2.1-9.6) were more likely to develop adverse events.CONCLUSION: A significant proportion of the users suffered from cosmetics related adverse events. The female employees have to be aware of the rational cosmetics utilization practices to minimize adverse events.
Normalization of Gene Expression by Quantitative RT-PCR in Human Cell Line: comparison of 12 Endogenous Reference Genes
Authors: Adeola Fowotade
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) has become an important diagnostic and research tool of modern molecular biology globally. Real-time PCR allows for rapid and reliable quantification of mRNA transcription. Reference genes are used as internal reaction control to normalise mRNA levels between different samples in order to allow for an exact comparison of mRNA transcription level.METHODS: In this study, twelve commonly used human reference genes were investigated in Human Embryonic Kidney Cell Lines (HEK293) using real-time qPCR with SYBR green. The genes included beta-2-microglobulin (B2M), glyceraldehyde-3- phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit A (SDHA), and tyrosine 3- monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein zeta polypeptide (YWHAZ). The stability of these reference genes was investigated using the geNorm application.RESULTS: The range of expression stability in the genes analysed was (from the most stable to the least stable): UBC, TOP1, ATP5B, CYC1, GAPDH, SDHA, YWHAZ, CTB, 18S, EIFA-2, B2M and RPL13A. The optimal number of reference targets in the experiment was calculated to be 2 (geNorm V<0.15) when comparing a normalization factor based on the 2 or 3 most stable targets).CONCLUSION: The expression stability varied greatly between the 12 candidate reference genes. UBC, TOP1, ATP5B, CYC1 and GAPDH respectively showed the highest stability in HEK293 cells based on both expression stability and expression level. Overall, our data suggest that UBC and TOP1show the least variation and the highest expression stability. This report validates the need for rational selection of reference genes for data normalization to ensure accuracy of quantitative PCR assays.
Editorial message
Authors: Haileamlak Abraham
Published: March 2021

Message from editor-in-chief of the journal.
Pattern and Presentation of Thyro-Cardiac Disease among Patients with Hyperthyroidism Attending a Tertiary Hospital in Ethiopia: A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Abera Mulatu Hailu
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND:Thyro-cardiac disease describes the existence of a combination of thyroid toxicity and significant heart disease in an individual patient. The frequent manifestations of thyro-cardiac disease are hypertension, atrial flutter or fibrillation, pulmonary hypertension and dilated cardiomyopathy. The aim of the study was to determine the pattern and presentation of cardiovasculardiseases in patients with hyperthyroidism on follow-up at St. Paul’s Hospital endocrine clinic.METHODS:It was a hospital based cross sectional study that evaluated hyperthyroid patients’ on follow-up at St. Paul’s Hospital for cardiovascular diseases from May 1st 2017 to October 31st 2017. Theyhad focused history, physical examination, electrocardiographic and echocardiographic evaluation.RESULTS: A total of 146 hyperthyroid patients on follow-up were included in the study. The mean age was 47.2 years and females accounted for 93.2% of patients. The mean duration of symptoms before presentation was 42 months. The frequent causes of hyperthyroidism were toxic multi-nodular goitre (88.4%), Graves’ disease (6.8%) and toxic adenoma (2.1%). Sixteen (11%) patients had atrial fibrillation and 71 (48.6%) had hypertension. Thyrocardiac disease was detected in 46.6% of patients. The frequent abnormalities were left ventricular hypertrophy (14.4%), mild diastolic dysfunction (10.9%), moderate to severe mitral regurgitation (8.9%), pulmonary hypertension with or without right ventricular dysfunction (8.2%) and dilated cardiomyopathy (4.1%).CONCLUSION: Cardiovascular disease was frequent among patients with hyperthyroidism. The commonest abnormalities were systemic hypertension, pulmonary hypertension with or without isolated right sided heart failure, atrial fibrillation and dilated cardiomyopathy.
Prevalence of Hepatitis C Virus in Tuberculosis Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Behzadifar Meysam , Heydarvand Sanaz , Behzadifar Masoud , Luigi Bragazzi Nicola
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: Infection with Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) increases the hepatotoxicity of anti-tuberculosis drugs. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to determine the prevalence of HCV infection in patients with tuberculosis (TB).METHODS: PubMed/MEDLINE, ISI/Web of Sciences, CINAHL, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library and Scopus were searched from January 2000 to March 2018. The overall prevalence of HCV in patients with TB was calculated using the random-effect model with 95% confidence interval (CI). To evaluate heterogeneity, I2 test was used. Egger's regression test was utilized to check publication bias.RESULTS: Twenty-one articles were selected for the final analysis based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria. A total of 15,542 patients with TB participated in the studies. The overall prevalence of HCV infection in patients with TB was 7% [95%CI: 6-9]. Subgroup analysis revealed that diagnostic test (P=0.0039), geographical background (P=0.0076) and gender distribution (P=0.0672) were statistically significant moderators. Men had a higher risk for HCV than women (Odds Ratio, OR=2.02; 95%CI: 1.28-3.18).CONCLUSION: The results of this study highlighted the importance of screening HCV in TB patients. Knowing whether HCV is present or not in these patients can be helpful in effectively treating them.
Heart Failure in Ethiopian Children: Mirroring the Unmet Cardiac Services
Authors: Nigussie Bezaye , Tadele Henok
Published: March 2021

BACKGROUND: HeartFailure (HF) is a progressive clinical and pathophysiological syndrome caused by cardiovascular and noncardiovascular abnormalities. Childhood HF has not been well studied in Sub-Sharan Africa, particularly in Ethiopia. Hence, this study aimed at describing the pattern and outcome of pediatrics HF at a referral-teaching hospital.METHODS: Medical records of 216 HFchildren aged 2months to 14 years, and admitted between January 2014 and January 2016 were reviewed. Clinical information was collected, analyzed and presented in tables and pie charts.RESULTS: A total of 2000 children were admitted to Hawassa University Hospital during the study period. HF accounted for 10.8% (216) of pediatrics admissions, 51.9% males. The median age of the study subjects was 6years. Functionally, NYHA/Ross class III and IV consisted 65(30.1%) and 139(64.4%) of HF. Structural heart diseasewas the commonest cause of HF, 144(66.7%): Rheumatic heart disease (RHD),75(52%), and congenital heart disease (CHD),64(44.5%). Anemia and renal cases contributed to 50(23.1) and 12(5.6%) of HF.CHD was predominantly documented in <5years. Pneumonia 66(42.9%), and infective endocarditis 29(18.8%) were the common precipitating/comorbid conditions with HF.Thecase fatality rate of HF was 13.9 %( 30).CONCLUSION: In this study, HF accounted for a tenth of pediatrics admissions. Structural heart disease was the commonest cause of heart failure. CHD and RHD affected predominantly children of <5years of age and >5 years of age. Echocardiographic screening of HF cases for structural heart disease and optimal care for patients with underlying structural heart disease are recommended.