bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Promesses et (dés)illusions
Authors: Rauzy Pablo
Published: April 2023

« Une blockchain est un registre distribué et immuable dans lequel sont écrites des informations qui font consensus. » Dans cet article, nous commencerons par donner du sens à cette phrase et à l’ensemble des termes qui y sont employés, en nous efforçant quand c’est nécessaire de rendre accessibles les notions informatiques (comme la décentralisation, la distribution, l’immuabilité, ou le consensus) et le fonctionnement technique des outils cryptographiques sous-jacents (comme les condensats, les signatures, ou la preuve de travail ou d’enjeu). L’objectif de cette introduction sera d’atteindre une compréhension réelle de ce qu’est une blockchain. Ainsi équipés, nous discuterons ensuite de ce que les blockchains autorisent effectivement d’accomplir, et donc surtout ce qu’elles ne permettent pas. Nous questionnerons alors les utilisations qui en sont proposées en nous concentrant sur des cas d’usage typiques des blockchains que nous étudierons plus en détails : les « cryptomonnaies » bien sûr, la certification de documents (avec l’exemple des diplômes), et nous mentionnerons également le cas des NFT. Cela nous permettra en conclusion de questionner de manière générale le caractère d’« innovation de rupture » que l’on associe souvent à cette technologie.
Usability and Accessibility of Open Government Data Portals of Countries Worldwide
Authors: Sheoran Sudesh , Mohanasundaram S. , Kasilingam R. , Vij Sanket
Published: April 2023

The open government data (OGD) portal is an initiative by governments worldwide to promote transparency and accountability and enhance citizen participation and public value creation. The ability of these portals to deliver the expected benefits depends on their usability and accessibility, besides their content. This study conducts an integrated assessment and comparison of the OGD portals of 75 countries based on their usability and accessibility. The usability of the portals is measured through several technical indicators, classified into performance metrics, browser timings, and optimisation using automated diagnostic tools. Accessibility is evaluated through portals' conformance to web content accessibility guidelines (WCAG). The ‘technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution' (TOPSIS) and entropy weight method are used to rank the portals. The findings of this study could be helpful for policymakers and internal stakeholders of OGD initiatives to identify the focus area and make decisions on resource allocation.
Information and Communication Technology Management for Sustainable Youth Employability in Underserved Society
Authors: Alao Abiodun , Brink Roelien
Published: April 2023

The provision of information and communication technology (ICT) infrastructure is not eminent in many societies due to a lack of digital access and poverty. Therefore, there should be ICT provision in underserved communities to bridge digital literacy and contribute to human and indigenous knowledge development. This paper aims to investigate how ICT access can impact youth employability in underserved townships. The quantitative method was used for the data collection process, using a structured questionnaire to draft both close-ended and open-ended questions. These were drafted into Google forms and distributed on social media platforms. While the sustainable livelihood theory was used to guide the study. Results derived from this study depict the inherent environmental factors that hinder youth access to ICTs. This study recommends policymakers can implement measures to provide sufficient ICT development initiatives to support youths living in underserved communities.
Origin-Oriented Shuffled Frog Leaping Vehicle Routing Multiobjective Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liu Liqun , Gu Renyuan , Huo Jiuyuan , Zhou Yubo
Published: April 2023

Shuffled frog leaping algorithm is a biological swarm intelligent optimization algorithm and improved into capacity-limited vehicle routing problem. However, the optimization performance is limited with improvement strategies in major of the improvement algorithm. A novel framework of algorithm is proposed to solve capacity-limited vehicle routing problem, including three modules such as origin oriented shuffled frog leaping algorithm strategy, origin oriented shuffled frog leaping vehicle routing multiobjective optimization algorithm strategy, and output module. The frog individuals gather near the origin with the maximum probability and in the area circle, with the frog leaping radius or frog-oriented radius, as the neighborhood. The negative value of the maximum entropy and the shortest total path length of the vehicle are selected as the fitness. The performance test shows that it overcomes the defect of slow convergence compared with other five algorithms. It performs well to solve vehicle routing problems.
Zinc Sulphide Quantum Dots’ Applications in Antibacterial as well as Estimation of E.Coli Concentration by Fabricating Mem-Mode Devices
Authors: Duwarah Himadri , Devi Jutika , Sharma Neelotpal , Saikia Kandarpa Kumar , Datta Pranayee
Published: April 2023

This paper reports the synthesis of ZnS Quantum Dots (QDs) embedded in PVA by aqueous precipitation method and its application in antibacterial as well as to find or estimation of Escherichia coli (E.coli) concentration by using ZnS/PVA QD based mem-mode nanodevices. The as-synthesized ZnS/PVA samples are characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy (UV), Photo luminescence (PL), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM). Antibacterial property of ZnS/PVA QDs against gram positive (S.aureus) as well as gram negative (E.coli) are tested. The antibacterial property is found to be more in S.aureus in comparision to E.coli. Mem-behaviour of the as-fabricated devices is observed through electrical characterization. COMSOL MP Software is used for simulating I-V characteristics. The voltage gap is found to be a promising parameter for estimating E.coli concentration with ZnS/PVA QDs as active material and an electrical circuit is presented
Principles of Logic Design with Nanoscale Thin Film Memristive Systems for High Performance Digital Circuit Applications
Authors: Chakraverty Mayank , Ramakrishnan V.N.
Published: April 2023

The characteristic pinched hysteresis behavior of memristors has been reported by stacks of a variety of materials. This paper aims to examine the principles of logic design using such two terminal memristive systems for high performance digital circuit applications. As against logic design with standard CMOS, the benefits of logic design with memristors have been stated. The realization and operation of memristor based AND and OR hybrid logic gates obtained by integrating memristors with standard CMOS logic have been discussed. The IMPLY and MAGIC logic families have been demonstrated by covering MAGIC NOR and NAND logic gate implementation with MAGIC NOR in detail. A qualitative comparison has been drawn towards the end of the paper to conclude on the suitability and application space for each of the logic families studied in this paper. This work also describes the hybrid CMOS-memristive logic family known as MRL (Memristor Ratioed Logic). With the addition of CMOS inverters, this logic family's OR and AND logic gates, which are based on memristive components, are given a full logic structure and signal restoration. The MRL family, in contrast to earlier memristor-based logic families, is compatible with conventional CMOS logic.
Compact Model Analysis for Low Voltage OFETs with Electrolytic Gate Dielectrics: Toward a Universal Model for Poly(3-Hexylthiophene) P3HT OFETs
Authors: Abhinav T. , Chandra Goutam Kumar , Predeep P.
Published: April 2023

The lightweight with flexibility and low-cost processing engineered the rapid growth of organic field-effect transistors (OFET) in the past three decades. Suitable compact models and parameter extraction methods are being developed to further the use of OFETs in integrated circuits, where stimulations are required to optimize the device performance. To simplify the parameter extraction, metaheuristic approaches are usually made, which otherwise is a cumbersome process. Following these, here investigations are made with the help of such a compact model to extract the operational parameters of P3HT (poly (3-hexylthiophene) based OFETs with electrolytic gate dielectrics using the genetic algorithm (GA) method. The result show that the compact model that was essentially developed in line with the successful models for inorganic material based FETs, can be used as an excellent framework for simulating low voltage OFETs made with both low and high mobility organic semiconductors. Mobility and threshold voltage calculated from the extracted parameters using GA for the two devices having mobility value differences of more than four orders are found to be nicely fitting with the experimental values. These results assume significance to the organic electronic industry as this facilitates the real-time circuit application of OFETs. KEYWORDS: Modeling, Low voltage OFET, Genetic algorithm, Ionic liquid, P3HT
Do Climate and Environmental Characteristics Influence Concussion Incidence in Outdoor Contact Sports? A Systematic Review
Authors: Abdoo Olivia , Martinez Corina , Forshey Trent , Myers Heather , Hendren Stephanie , Pietrosimone Laura S.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To obtain a comprehensive understanding of the implications of environmental and climate factors on sport-related concussion incidence in outdoor contact sports.

Data Sources

MEDLINE (via Ovid), Embase (via Elsevier), CINAHL Complete (via EBSCOhost), SPORTDiscus (via EBSCOhost), and Scopus (via Elsevier).

Study Selection

Studies that report incidence of sport-related concussion, assess data from athletes participating in outdoor contact sports, report on 1 or more climate or environmental factors, and report a diagnosis of concussion performed by a licensed medical professional were included. Reasons for exclusion included no report on extrinsic or environmental factors, no data on sport-related concussion incidence, and self-report of concussion diagnosis.

Data Extraction

This systematic review was conducted using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using 2 reviewers at each phase and a third reviewer for conflict resolution.

Data Synthesis

A total of 7558 articles were reviewed, and 20 met the inclusion criteria. There was moderate to strong strength of evidence concluding no difference between surface type (grass versus artificial) on sport-related concussion risk. Moderate to strong strength of evidence was found supporting no difference in sport-related concussion incidence based on game location (home versus away). There was no consensus on the effects of altitude or temperature on sport-related concussion incidence. One high-quality study found a decreased risk of sport-related concussion when playing in wet versus dry conditions. Heterogenous populations and data collection methods prevented extraction and meta-analysis.

Conclusions

Although a consensus on specific environmental and climate factors that influence sport-related concussion incidence was limited, the majority of studies were of high quality and gave insight into opportunities for future investigation. Administrators of large injury surveillance databases should consider including specific environmental and climate factors to provide investigators with robust data sets to better understand potential associations with sport-related concussion.
Prevalence of obstructive sleep apnea in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Alkhayat Khaled , Hussein Mona T. , Mohammed Omnia A. , Mohammadien Hamdy A.
Published: April 2023

Introduction

The occurrence of chronic obstructive airway disease and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a popular syndrome called overlap syndrome.

Aim

To evaluate the prevalence of OSA in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Patients and methods

A total of 86 patients with COPD (54.65% men, with a mean age of 62.065 years) were included in our study. Clinical criteria and biochemical tests were registered, and polysomnography was done.

Results

Overall, 38 patients with an apnea–hypopnea index more than 5 events/h were defined as having overlap syndrome (44.19%).

Conclusion

The results showed an OSA prevalence of 44.19% in patients with COPD. A sleep study should be considered in overweight patients with COPD, even in patients without symptoms of sleep apnea.
Pseudotumoralpresentation of osteoarticular tuberculosis in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Leon-Abarca Juan A. , Quiñones Cristel , Perez Einever , Rodríguez-Hurtado Diana
Published: April 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infectious granulomatous disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosum which typically compromises the lungs, but can also affect other organs (extrapulmonary TB). In the Americas, the extrapulmonary form represents 15% of newly diagnosed cases, matching the global incidence. An adverse genetic background aided by the immunosupression state of these patients increases the risk of presenting the extrapulmonary form involving the lymph glands, pleura, genitourinary tract, bones and joints, meninges, bowel, pericardium, and the skin in order of their frequencies. As such, osteoarticular TB represents only 1–3% of extrapulmonary cases globally. In Peru, extrapulmonary TB represents 17.6% of newly diagnosed cases. The most affected age group comprises people between 20 and 59 years of age (65.45% of diagnoses). In the developing world, infectious diseases (particularly TB) are one of the main causes of morbimortality in systemic lupus erythematosus patients. The authors report the case of a 21-year-old female patient with an systemic lupus erythematosus background who had swelling in her left hand for 6 months prior to admission in which the diagnosis was suspected after histological study.
Dilemma of antiviral treatment in coronavirus 2019
Authors: Masoud Hossam H.
Published: April 2023

There are four classes of Coronaviruses designated as alpha, beta, gamma and delta. CoV-2 attacks the lower respiratory system to cause severe pneumonia, but it may also affect other organs leading to multiple organ failure. The choice for antiviral treatment for CoV-2 depends on the timing and the severity of the case. Although there is no antiviral designed specifically for treating corona virus, several agents are tried such as hydroxychloroquine, Remdesivir, Lopinavir/Ritonavir, and Favipiravir. The mechanism of each drug is diacussed in detail below. In addition, ivermectin has started to emerge as a new candidate therapeutic against SARS-CoV-2/ COVID-19.
Efficacy and safety of lung biopsy via mini-thoracoscopy in interstitial lung diseases
Authors: Bondok Khaled I. , Mansour Ahmed El-Sayed , El Said Amany R. , Shebl Abdelhadi M. , Rezk Nasef Abd El-Salam
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Histopathological examination of interstitial lung diseases is important to assist diagnosis when the results of clinical assessment, laboratory investigations, high-resolution computed tomographic imaging, and pulmonary function testing do not allow making a confident diagnosis of a certain type or stage of interstitial lung disease.

Patients and methods

A total of 20 patients were enrolled in the study at Chest Medicine Department, Mansoura University Hospital, Mansoura, Egypt. A written informed consent for thoracoscope and tissue sampling was obtained from all patients. The patients were divided into two groups: group I underwent medical thoracoscope and group II underwent mini-thoracoscope.

Results

The biopsy size ranges from 3 to 9 mm, with a mean±SD of 6.2±1.4 mm in group I and 3.9±0.88 mm in group II. Fever was common in group I (50%) than group II (20%). Surgical emphysema was higher in group I, with a median (range) of 3 (2–3) and median (range) in group II was 1 (1–2). Bleeding was reported in most cases for each group, with median (range) of 1.5 (1–2) in group I and 1 (0–1) in group II. No cases were complicated with severe bleeding in both groups. Pain scoring was higher in group I with median (range) of 2 (0–3) and 1 (1–2) in group II. Only two cases in group I were complicated with persistent air leak more than or equal to 7 days. There is a statistically significant difference regarding bleeding, pain, and surgical emphysema (P=0.010, 0.044, 0.013). Diagnostic yield is 100% in both groups. Nonspecific interstitial pneumonia was the most common diagnosis in group I (40%) and in group II (60%), followed by usual interstitial pneumonia in three (30%) cases in group I and four (40%) cases in group II. The least common diagnosis is broncholites obliterans organising pneumonia (BOOP), pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP), and mucoid adenocarcinoma, which were encountered in 10% each in group I.

Conclusion

Lung biopsy can be performed with less invasive maneuver by mini-thoracoscopy, leading to decrease complications with good diagnostics.
Cementless total hip replacement for hip dysplasia: anatomical hip center is associated with better patient-reported functional outcome
Authors: Hammad Abdullah S , Gawish Hesham M
Published: April 2023

Background

Total hip arthroplasty in patients with dysplastic hips is a challenging procedure. The main goal of surgery is to achieve anatomical center of rotation to improve the abductor function, patient satisfaction, and implant survival. The aim of this study was to report the mid-term functional results using the Oxford hip score (OHS) after cementless total hip replacement (THR).

Patients and methods

This was a retrospective analysis of the prospectively collected data of patients who had a THR done at our institution with hip dysplasia. Between September 2011 and December 2019, a total of 23 consecutive patients (26 hips) with Crowe II–IV developmental dysplasia were treated with primary cementless THR. The mean age for patients included were 34.1 ± 15.2 years. Females were more than males. The left side was operated more than the right side, and there were three bilateral cases. The mean preoperative OHS was 21 ± 6.6 points.

Results

All patients were followed up for a mean of 3.4 ± 2.6 years (range, 1–11 years). None of the cases were lost to follow-up. The mean OHS improved significantly from 21.2 ± 6.6 points (range, 8–38) preoperatively to 40.9 ± 4.8 points (range, 28–48) in the final OHS (Z=4.45, P<0.001). Regarding the final OHS, both Crowe types II and III were better than Crowe type IV, and the difference was statistically significant. The functional leg length discrepancy improved from a median of 3 (0–7) cm preoperatively to 0 (0–3) cm postoperatively (Z=4.3, P<0.0001). All cases that required shortening were Crowe IV dysplasia (five cases). A total of 22 (88%) hips were reconstructed within 2 cm of the other hip.

Conclusion

Restoration of anatomic center of rotation as close as possible was associated with better functional outcome. Cementless fixation was possible in all cases.
Surgical outcomes of direct anterior approach versus lateral approach in primary total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Saleh Mohamed R A , Toreih Ahmed A , Gohar Mahmoud A
Published: April 2023

Background

Total hip arthroplasty (THA) is a frequent orthopedic surgery. There are different approaches to hip such as anterior, posterior, or lateral approach.

Objectives

To assess the outcome of THA performed through the direct anterior approach (DAA) versus lateral approaches.

Patients and methods

This study involved 40 matched patients who underwent primary, elective THA. All cases were classified according to THA approach into two groups: 20 patients who underwent THA with a DAA and 20 patients with the lateral approach. We recorded reoperation rate, postoperative complications, visual analog scale pain scores, and modified Harris hip score (mHHS) for all patients.

Results

When mHHS was studied, it showed significant improvement postoperatively in both DAA and lateral approach groups (P<0.001). The DAA group showed a higher significant mHHS value at preoperatively (P=0.015), 1 month (P<0.001), 3 months (P<0.001), and 9 months (P=0.001) more than the lateral approach group. Regarding complications, the lateral approach group showed a significant increase in developing wound infection and instability (P=0.048, 0.027, and 0.048, respectively). No significant differences were found when comparing groups regarding loosening, deep infection, femoral complications, and acetabular malposition (P>0.05). Six cases in the lateral approach group needed reoperation with significant difference between this group and DAA group (P=0.027).

Conclusion

The DAA is a safe and efficacious surgical technique with reducing morbidity, complications, and accelerating functional recovery than the lateral approach in THA.
Immunogenicity of measles-rubella vaccine administered under India’s Universal Immunization Programme in the context of measles–rubella elimination goal: A longitudinal study
Authors: Verma Santosh Kumar , Shah Dheeraj , Singh Aaradhana , Singh Praveen Kumar , Das Shukla , Gupta Piyush
Published: April 2023

Background & objectives:

There is a paucity of data regarding immunogenicity of recently introduced measles–rubella (MR) vaccine in Indian children, in which the first dose is administered below one year of age. This study was undertaken to assess the immunogenicity against rubella and measles 4-6 wk after one and two doses of MR vaccine administered under India’s Universal Immunization Programme (UIP).

Methods:

In this longitudinal study, 100 consecutive healthy infants (9-12 months) of either gender attending the immunization clinic of a tertiary care government hospital affiliated to a medical college of Delhi for the first dose of routine MR vaccination were enrolled. MR vaccine (0.5 ml, subcutaneous) was administered to the enrolled participants (1st dose at 9-12 months and 2nd dose at 15-24 months). On each follow up (4-6 wk post-vaccination), 2 ml of venous blood sample was collected to estimate the antibody titres against measles and rubella using quantitative ELISA kits. Seroprotection (>10 IU/ml for measles and >10 WHO U/ml for rubella) and antibody titres were evaluated after each dose.

Results:

The seroprotection rate against rubella was 97.5 and 100 per cent and against measles was 88.7 per cent and 100 per cent 4-6 wk after the first and second doses, respectively. The mean (standard deviation) titres against rubella and measles increased significantly (P<0.001) after the second dose in comparison to the levels after the first dose by about 100 per cent and 20 per cent, respectively.

Interpretation & conclusions:

MR vaccine administered below one year of age under the UIP resulted in seroprotection against rubella and measles in a large majority of children. Furthermore, its second dose resulted in seroprotection of all children. The current MR vaccination strategy of two doses, out of which the first is to be given to infants below one year of age, appears robust and justifiable among Indian children.
Emotional intelligence and tertiary care nurses of Bangalore, India – A cross-sectional study
Authors: Regy Minitta Maria , Ramesh Naveen
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Nursing profession requires diverse skills, and emotional intelligence (EI) plays a role in helping them adapt to adverse situations as a part of their work environment. The study objective was to determine the prevalence of EI with its associated factors among the nursing professionals from selected four tertiary care hospitals in Bangalore.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a multicentric, cross-sectional study done among nurses with more than 1 year of work experience, who were randomly selected from tertiary care hospitals in Bangalore. Data was collected, both online and offline, owing to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, and the Emotional Intelligence Scale was used following obtaining informed consent. Data analysis included mean, associations, and regression.

RESULTS:

Out of the total 294, the mean age of the study participants was 27 ± 4.92 years. A total of 75 (25.5%) had poor EI. Although there were not any significant association between the specialty and EI subscales, a significant association was found to be present between total years of work experience and all five subscales of EI: self-awareness (P= 0.009), social regulation (P= 0.004), motivation (P= 0.012), social awareness (P= 0.008), and social skills (P= 0.049), respectively. Logistic regression showed a significant finding where nursing staff with more work experience had a higher EI (OR 0.012, 95% CI 1.288–8.075) than those with less work experience.

CONCLUSION:

The prevalence of poor EI among nursing professionals was 25%, and EI scores increased with increasing work experience, and this was found to be significant. Thereby, EI building workshops/training, as a part of the nursing curriculum, may help improve their quality of care and resilience in demanding work environments.
Effect of multi-component exercises program on pain-related gait adaptations among individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee joint
Authors: Bhore Prachiti , Shinde Sandeep
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Osteoarthritis of the knee causes pain and gait disturbances, as well as a distinct gait pattern. Patients with knee OA have decreased range of motion (ROM) and increased ground reaction force. OA reduces stride length and walking speed.

OBJECTIVES:

To determine the effect of a multi-component exercise program on pain-related gait adaptations among individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee joint and to compare the effect of multi-component exercises with traditional exercises on pain-related gait adaptations among individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee joint.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was an experimental study done between 120 patients having knee OA, of both genders, and between the age group of 50–65 years. These individuals were residents of the city of Karad and they were randomly divided into group A (conventional/traditional) and group B (experimental). A pretest assessment was done and the treatment was given for 6 weeks. The later posttest assessment was done and further statistical tests like paired and unpaired t tests were used.

RESULTS:

Among the 120 subjects with OA knee, the age group of 60–65 years (44%) was found to be commonly affected. Thirty-nine were males (32.5%) and 81 were females (67.5%). Fifty-eight subjects (48%) were found to be commonly overweight. Thirty-two subjects (27%) had Genu Valgum deformity, and 88 subjects (73%) had Genu Varum deformity at the knee joint. The Pvalue within both group A and group B was found to be statistically significant for the entire outcome measures used for assessment. The pretest vs post test values of the WOMAC scale for patients with knee OA within both groups were found to be extremely significant (P < 0.0001). As for the MMT score in these patients, the Knee Flexors of Group A were not significant for right side (P = 0.7088) as well as for left side (P = 0.083) and in Group B they were extremely significant (P < 0.0001) for both sides. For the ROM scores within both groups, Knee Flexion of Group A for both sides was found to be extremely significant (P < 0.0001) for both sides. And for the pretest vs posttest values of within the groups'gait parameters among these patients with OA knees, for cadence both groups B were found to be extremely significant (P < 0.0001). The stride length for Group A was found to be very significant (P = 0.0060) and for Group B it was (P < 0.0001). Also, the P values of the various outcome measures between both groups were found to have statistical significance of their own.

CONCLUSION:

Effect of Multi-Component Exercise Program on Pain-Related Gait Adaptations Among Individuals with Osteoarthritis of the Knee joint was found to be significant in pain reduction, improving strength, range of motion, and the gait parameters such as an increase in cadence, stride length, step length and decrease in the step width.
The impacts of head trauma management education on the clinical decision-making of pre-hospital emergency staff
Authors: Hani Esmaeil , Saeedi Maryam , Hekmatpou Davood
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of head trauma management education by the scenario method versus lecturing on clinical decision-making by pre-hospital emergency staff.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was an educational trial on 60 pre-hospital emergency staff, performed in Saveh in 2020–2021. The participants fulfilling inclusion criteria entered the study and were randomly allocated to two groups: scenario (n = 30) and lecture (n = 30). Clinical decision-making scores for head trauma patient management were determined at the beginning and end of the study using a researcher-made questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics and SPSS software version 16.

RESULTS:

At post-intervention, the mean score of clinical decision-making was 75.28 ± 11.7 in the scenario group and 68.55 ± 11.91 in the lecture group. The results of the independent t-test showed that the mean score of clinical decision-making was significantly higher in the scenario group compared with the lecture group (p = 0.04). The results of paired t-test showed a significant increase in the mean score of clinical decision-making in both groups after the intervention (p < 0.05); however, the mean of increment was higher in the scenario group (9.77 ± 7.63) than in the lecture group (1.79 ± 3).

CONCLUSION:

Regarding the impact of scenario-based education on learners' intellectual abilities and creativity, it seems that this type of education can be an appropriate alternative to traditional educational methods. Therefore, it is suggested to incorporate this method in the training programs of pre-hospital emergency staff.
Development of attributes and levels of mental health insurance services using a discrete choice experiment
Authors: Rahmani Hojjat , Talebianpour Hamid , Sharafi Sayedeh Elham , Daroudi Rajabali , Jaafaripooyan Ebrahim
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Despite the fact that mental illness is among the ten top diseases with the highest burden, the health services required by these patients do not have adequate insurance coverage. The purpose of this study is to develop the attributes and levels of mental health insurance services using a discrete choice experiment (DCE).

MATERIALS AND METHOD:

This study involved a qualitative phase of the DCE that was conducted in Iran in 2020-2021 and included several stages. First, during a literature review, the attributes and levels were determined. Then, the attributes of health insurance were identified and weighed through virtual and in-person interviews with 16 mental health insurance professionals and policymakers in this field who were selected by purposive sampling. Finally, after a few sessions, through review studies, interviews, and a group of the expert panel, attributes and levels were finalized.

RESULTS:

This study showed that coverage of inpatient services, outpatient services, place of receiving services, use of online internet services, limitation of services, and monthly premiums were the most important attributes of mental health insurance services.

CONCLUSION:

To promote mental health insurance, policymakers and health insurance organizations should pay attention to premiums to be commensurate with the payment of people, packages of mental health services, and the ability of people to pay in appropriation with inflation. Identifying these attributes can determine people's willingness to pay and preferences for mental health insurance and lead to better planning for more comprehensive coverage for patients and increase the desirability of individuals in receiving services.
Educational needs of type 1 diabetes mellitus T1DM children and adolescents in Morocco: A qualitative study
Authors: Ait-Taleb Lahsen Hanaâ , Ragala Mohammed El Amine , El Abed Hanane , Hajjaj Safaa , El Makhtari Rajae , Benani Sarah , El Hilaly Jaouad , Zarrouq Btissame , Halim Karima
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus T1DM is a chronic disease, mainly observed in children or young adults, with a significantly increased incidence in young children. To enable diabetic children and adolescents to lead a healthy life and manage their disease effectively, right from diagnosis, they must benefit from therapeutic patient education TPE whose first stage is an educational diagnosis. This study aimed to identify the educational needs of T1DM children and adolescents through an educational diagnosis.

METHODS AND MATERIAL:

A qualitative study was conducted with T1DM children and adolescents, aged 8 to 18, at the pediatric department. This qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured face-to-face individual interviews based on a guide with 20 participants in 2022. The internationally recognized ethical research principles were respected and ethical approval was obtained. Data analysis were carried out according to the principles of the reflexive approach of thematic analysis.

RESULTS:

The interviews' thematic analysis revealed five educational themes: Knowledge about T1DM and its complications risks, measures and attitudes for disease monitoring and therapy management, crisis and short-term complications management, diet and physical activity management, and adaptation of daily life to the disease and treatment constraints.

CONCLUSIONS:

The educational diagnosis is an essential TPE step to identify the educational needs of children and adolescents with T1DM, and to set up if needed, an educational program allowing them to develop the required skills. Hence, the health policy in Morocco should integrate the TPE approach systematically in T1DM patients' care.
Preventing falls of the elderly at home: Applying the precaution adoption process model
Authors: Jadgal Mohammad Saeed , Movahed Ehsan , Dashti Saeid , Khazir Zahra , Zareipour Moradali
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Falling in the elderly causes a variety of issues such as dependence, decreased self-efficacy, depression and limitation in daily activities, hospitalization and imposition of costs on the individual and society. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevention of falls in the elderly at home by applying the Precaution Adoption Process Model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

In this quasi-experimental study, 200 elderly people participated, 100 of whom were in the intervention group and 100 in the control group. The sample was provided via stratified random sampling. The data collection instruments were a researcher-made questionnaire including demographic details, as well as the Precaution Adoption Process Model (PAPM) questionnaire. Educational intervention was performed during four 45-minute sessions, following which the data was analyzed through SPSS 20 software and was evaluated based on the Chi-squared, Mann–Whitney U, Wilcoxon, and Fisher's exact tests.

RESULTS:

Investigating the distribution of participants in the phases of the PAPM indicated that most participants of both the intervention and control groups were in the passive fall prevention phase before treatment. However, after the intervention, most participants of the intervention group were in the active phases of fall prevention, while there were not any significant changes in the control group. Moreover, comparing the mean of the structures of knowledge, sensitivity, severity, benefits, perceived self-efficiency, and the cues to action in terms of preventing falls after the intervention, showed a significant increase in these structures in the intervention group compared to the control group (P < 0.001). Eventually, the findings of the study showed a significant decrease in the percentage of falls of the participants of the intervention group compared to that of the control group after the intervention (P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS:

Educational intervention on the basis of the PAPM promoted the elderly precaution from passive phases to active phases of preventing falls, thereby resulting in a decrease in the number of falls of elderly people.
Live experience of nursing students with internship program: A phenomenological study
Authors: Jahromi Mahdi Karimyar , Momennasab Marzieh , Yektatalab Shahrzad , Pasyar Nilofar , Rivaz Mozhgan
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND AND AIM:

The internship is a program for transition of nursing students to the clinical setting. This study was conducted to describe and interpret the experiences of nursing students from the internship program.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was an interpretative phenomenological study following Van Menen's approach in six steps. Twelve nursing students were selected from 12 different universities in Iran from April to August 2020. Data was collected through 15 in-depth interviews (three supplementary interviews) over the course of 25–90 min and verbatim transcriptions. Data were analyzed with MAXQDA version 10 software. The researcher used four Guba and Lincoln criteria to obtain a rigorous study.

RESULTS:

In this study, three main themes and eight subthemes were extracted. The main themes included “professional identity development,” “moving toward professional self-efficacy,” and “developing coping strategies for workplace adversities.” The subthemes were “promoting the cognition of profession,” “acceptance among colleagues as a nurse,” “accepting professional roles,” “self-awareness of weaknesses in patient care,” “self-reliance,” “advancing clinical skills,” “adopting effective coping strategies,” and “avoiding tension in clinical settings.”

CONCLUSION:

Nursing internship students have experienced moving toward professionalization with professional identity and self-efficacy development, and they succeeded in clinical challenges by learning coping approaches.
Using social marketing theory as a framework for understanding barriers and facilitators of human papillomavirus screening in women: A qualitative study
Authors: Daghighbin Elahe , Najar Ali Vafaee , Tehrani Hadi , Saghi Fateme Kokabi , Ghavami Vahid , Houshmand Elahe , Ebrahimipour Hossein
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND:

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known as the common sexually transmitted disease and the cause of cervical cancer. The HPV test is being proposed as the primary screening tool for cervical cancer. This study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators of screening based on the social marketing model in designing interventions and planning to increase HPV screening.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This qualitative directed content analysis was conducted between December 2020 to September 2021 to identify the key concepts of social marketing theory (i.e., the four P's: product, price, place, and promotion) in Mashhad, Iran. Semistructured interviews were fulfilled with 24 individuals (10 women with HPV and 14 key informants) after obtaining participants' consent, who were initially purposively sampled and snowball sampling was then used to facilitate further recruitment. Data analysis was carried out simultaneously with data collection.

RESULTS:

Following the code extraction, four main categories (themes) and 10 subcategories extracted. Subcategories included knowledge on screening, screening benefits, and motivational factors for screening (product), individual inhibitors, environmental inhibitors, and facility problems related to price, place of service delivery, and service delivery channels (place) and health promotion and education.

DISCUSSION:

Lack of knowledge about HPV and screening, negative attitudes toward sexually transmitted diseases, taboo about sexual issues in society, fear of the reaction of spouse and family members, lack of proper policies and information and communication challenges, high costs of screening, access barriers to facilities such as difficult transportation have been challenges of health systems. It is suggested that HPV screening as a standard method for detection of cervical cancer be considered and the barriers to access are removed.
Use of Protemp 4 in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Krishnan Pratibha , Singh Sakshi , Biswas Priyanka , Sharma Niharika
Published: April 2023

Early childhood caries is a multifactorial chronic disease affecting the general life of a child. Functional along with esthetic rehabilitation of decayed primary teeth should be the main focus of pediatric dentists. The advent of new restorative materials and techniques has helped to create beautiful smiles for children. As the retention time of primary teeth is short, hence using temporary material for primary teeth restoration could be a good alternative. This case series depicts a novel clinical technique of using a temporization material –Protemp 4 for intra- and extracoronal restorations in primary teeth.
A Successful Method of Treating Recurrent Labial Synechia
Authors: Paul Pritama , Bhattacharyya Kali Sankar , Era Nikhil , Paul Sritama , Paul Uttam Kumar
Published: April 2023

An acquired condition called labial synechia results from inflammation that encourages fusions between the labia minora. Estrogen cream has been used in the majority of trials to treat individuals with labial synechia, but recurrences are common with this treatment. The purpose is to evaluate the effectiveness of mometasone cream used topically in treating individuals with recurrent labial synechia. Patients with recurrent labial synechia (n = 5) ranged in age from 2 years and 3 months to 3 years and 9 months. Mometasone cream was applied topically over the adhesions twice a day. Two cases were healed after 5 weeks of mometasone cream exposure, two needed 6 weeks, and one needed 7 weeks. Side effects were essentially imperceptible. Therefore, it can be concluded that mometasone cream is a successful treatment for recurrent labial synechia.
A Study on Patients with Pleural Effusion with Emphasis on Pleural Fluid Adenosine Deaminase and Pleural Biopsy
Authors: Mandal Animesh , Sardar Pritam Kumar , Bar Prasenjit Kumar , Das Anirban
Published: April 2023

Background:

Evaluation of adenosine deaminase (ADA) has emerged as a potential biochemical marker for the diagnosis of tuberculosis (TB). An increased level of ADA in blood generally indicates the presence of TB. This study aimed to evaluate the ADA level in pleural fluid with diagnostic accuracy in histologically confirmed patients of pleural TB.

Materials and Methods:

This prospective observational study included patients with a confirmed diagnosis of pleural effusion. Data related to demographics, clinical characteristics, sputum status, predominant cells, ADA levels, and pleural biopsy reports were recorded.

Results:

Of the 82 patients of exudative pleural effusion, 65 (79.3%) were men. The most common presenting symptoms were cough (87.8%), chest pain (67.1%), fever (64.6%), and shortness of breath (56.1%). The average ADA level was 66.5 IU/L. Pleural biopsy showed that 45.1% of patients were tubercular etiology, 34.1% of patients were malignant, and 20.7% were of nonspecific inflammatory origin. Totally 59.8% of patients had right-sided pleural effusion, whereas 40.2% of patients had left-sided pleural effusion. Majority of the TB patients (81.1%) with ADA level > 40 U/L were diagnosed with tubercular granuloma, whereas 41 patients with malignancy and other patients had ADA level < 40 U/L (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

Evaluation of ADA level along with histopathological examination can be easily performed as the routine test in the diagnosis of TB.
A review of the current diphtheria outbreaks
Authors: Medugu N. , Musa-Booth T.O. , Adegboro, B. , Onipede A.O. , Babazhitsu M. , Amaza R.
Published: April 2023

Corynebacterium diphtheriae is responsible for both endemic and epidemic diphtheria. The predisposing factor for this disease is the failure to immunize  during childhood. Humans are the only hosts of the organism and is present in the upper respiratory tract. The organism is transmitted via airborne  route and can cause respiratory obstruction and heart failure because of the exotoxin it produces. There is presently a resurgence of diphtheria  outbreaks in Nigeria. The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) was notified of suspected diphtheria outbreaks in Lagos and Kano States, Nigeria, in  December 2022 and has been issuing monthly reports since that time. This review of the diphtheria outbreaks following online database searches on  PubMed and Google Scholar as well as the NCDC/WHO websites and grey literatures, describes the current trend of the outbreaks globally, elucidated the  different strains of Corynebacterium responsible for the outbreaks, identified the recent vaccine formulation developed to tackle the outbreaks, and  provide information on vaccine delivery and efficacy studies in the country and globally. 

French title: Un examen des épidémies actuelles de diphtérie

 

Corynebacterium diphtheriae est responsable à la fois de la diphtérie endémique et épidémique. Le facteur prédisposant à cette maladie est l'absence de  vaccination pendant l'enfance. Les humains sont les seuls hôtes de l'organisme et sont présents dans les voies respiratoires supérieures. L'organisme  est transmis par voie aérienne et peut provoquer une obstruction respiratoire et une insuffisance cardiaque en raison de l'exotoxine qu'il produit. Il y a  actuellement une recrudescence des épidémies de diphtérie au Nigeria. Le Centre Nigérian de Contrôle des Maladies (NCDC) a été informé des  épidémies présumées de diphtérie dans les États de Lagos et de Kano, au Nigéria, en décembre 2022 et publie depuis lors des rapports mensuels. Cet  examen des épidémies de diphtérie à la suite de recherches dans les bases de données en ligne sur PubMed et Google Scholar ainsi que sur les sites Web  et les littératures grises du NCDC/OMS, décrit la tendance actuelle des épidémies dans le monde, a élucidé les différentes souches de  Corynebacterium responsables des épidémies, identifié les récentes la formulation de vaccins développée pour lutter contre les épidémies et fournir des  informations sur l'administration des vaccins et les études d'efficacité dans le pays et dans le monde.
Assessment of the risk of stroke in children with sickle cell anemia using transcranial doppler ultrasound with imaging in Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Wudil Jibir Binta , Usman Wudil J. , Muuta I. , Oyewole Adeodu O.
Published: April 2023

Background: Stroke is a major cause of morbidity and mortality affecting about 10% of patients with sickle cell anemia (SCA). Transcranial Doppler (TCD)  ultrasonography helps to identify children with SCA who are at an increased risk for stroke. This study aimed to determine the risk of stroke in children  with SCA in steady state using Transcranial Doppler with Imaging (TCDI) scan abnormalities and the prevalence of TCDI scan abnormalities among  children with SCA in northern Nigeria.
Materials and Methods: We conducted acomparative study among 240 persons with SCA who attended a pediatric sickle cell clinic in northern Nigeria  and were in steady state condition. We performed a transcranial ultrasound examination and collected blood samples to perform full blood counts and  hemoglobin electrophoresis.
Results: Abnormal velocities were obtained in 11 (9.3%) children with SCA; while 16 (13.6%) had conditional velocities and 89 (76.7%) of those had normal  velocities in one or more of the four vessels studied. Most of the children in the control group 116 (96.7%) had normal velocities and the difference  between the groups was not statistically significant (χ 2 = 0.59, p > 0.05).
Conclusion: The use of TCDI sonography to predict the risk of stroke should be  included in the standard of care in children with SCA in Nigeria and should be included in routine evaluation of disease severity in children with SCA