bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric central nervous system cancers in the democratic People's Republic of Korea
Authors: Park Sunwoo , Moon Sandra , Hong David , Park Kee
Published: September 2021

Purpose: Central nervous system (CNS) cancers rank as the most frequent solid tumors and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in children and adolescents. There is less information available about pediatric brain and CNS tumors in low-income and middle-income countries, suggesting a lack of surgical accessibility or limited capacity to treat these conditions. In this study, we chose to study the epidemiology of CNS cancers in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK). Methods: We extracted the prevalence, incidence, deaths, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) associated with CNS cancers in individuals under the age of 20 from the 2017 Global Burden of Disease study from the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation. DALYs, which signify the number of healthy life years lost due to ill health, disability, or early death. Economic impact was calculated from DALYs. Conclusions: Given the large burden of brain and CNS cancers among all pediatric cancers in the DPRK, scaling up and strengthening surgical services for children is an essential component to improving care of pediatric CNS cancers in the DPRK. Childhood cancers are time sensitive, and early diagnosis and treatment are vital in ensuring improved survival for the vulnerable pediatric cancer patient population. As surgical treatment can often prolong lives and even prevent premature deaths from these cancers, further analysis of current surgical capacity can inform the path to meeting these critical pediatric surgical needs.
Extra-axial cerebello-pontine angle medulloblastoma in an infant: A rare case report with review of literature
Authors: Prabhu Santosh , Agarwal Sidharth , Prabhu Sujata , Prabhu Akash
Published: September 2021

Medulloblastoma is a fairly common neoplastic growth seen majorly in children, presenting as an intra-axial midline mass arising from the cerebellar vermis. However, its presentation as an extra-axial mass in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) is extremely rare, such that, only 39 cases have been reported in the world literature till 2016. Only one case has ever been reported of an extra-axial CPA medulloblastoma in an infant; who was aged 1 year. We present a case report of an 8-month-old infant, with an extra-axial CPA medulloblastoma and discuss its management strategy.
A novel technique of microcatheter shaping using real image display for endovascular aneurysmal coil embolization
Authors: Ohshima Tomotaka , Nagano Yoshitaka , Miyachi Shigeru
Published: September 2021

In coil embolization of intracranial aneurysms, guiding the microcatheter to an appropriate site in the aneurysm and stabilizing it there are important. In paraclinoid internal carotid aneurysms, complicated three-dimensional (3-D) shaping of the microcatheter tip is occasionally required. We devised a novel shaping method for microcatheters by using a real image display (RID). The usefulness of this technique was validated. We used a RID consisting of a couple of concave mirrors. A piece of patient-specific vascular model, which was made using a 3-D printer before the operation, was set inside the RID. We obtained a real 3-D image just above the RID. As a microcatheter and its shaping inner mandrel could be entered in the hologram of the vasculature, we could create the actual shape of the microcatheter. The shaped microcatheter could be navigated at the desired position in the aneurysm. Complete obliteration of the aneurysm was achieved without any trouble among 30 consecutive cases. We evaluated the effectiveness of the RID for making and navigating a microcatheter in cases with challenging anatomies. It was useful for favorable microcatheter shaping, as the RID could be entered inside the aneurysm models, unlike when tracing the outer surface of rigid 3-D models.
Clinical and outcome analysis in head injury patients with fahr's disease
Authors: Singh Rahul , Sahu Anurag , Singh Ramit , Bhaikhel Kulwant , Prasad Ravi
Published: September 2021

Context: Fahr's disease (FD) is a rare neurodegenerative disorder. Head injury in patients with FD is an uncommon occurrence. Aim: The aim is to evaluate clinical and outcome characteristics in traumatic head injury patients with FD. Settings and Design: Retrospective cohort study. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study includes 13 patients of FD presenting as head injury in neurosurgical emergency between September 2018 and February 2021. Each patient was evaluated in terms of demographic profile, Glasgow coma scale (GCS) at admission, severity of head injury, type of head injury, preexisting clinical features of FD, radiological findings, Glasgow outcome score (GOS), family history of FD, and biochemical abnormalities. Patients were also evaluated for dichotomized outcome (Good recovery: GOS 5–4 versus Poor recovery: GOS 1–3) and gender differences in FD presentation. Statistical Analysis Used: Fisher's exact test and unpaired t-test were used. P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Neurological symptoms (69.2%), neuropsychiatric manifestations (46.1%) and extrapyramidal features (38.5%) were preexisting in these patients. Seizure (61.5%) was the most common neurological manifestation. Depression (23.1%) and anxiety disorder (15.4%) were common psychiatric disorders seen. Akathisia (23.1%) followed by tremor (15.4%) were predominant extrapyramidal presentations. On dichotomized outcome analysis, preexisting neurological, neuropsychiatric, and extrapyramidal manifestations due to FD were not associated significantly with outcome following head injury. GCS at admission, severity of head injury and pupillary changes were significantly associated with outcome (P < 0.05). Neuropsychiatric features (P = 0.0210) were significantly more in females suffering from FD. Conclusions: Neurological features in FD predominate over neuropsychiatric and extrapyramidal symptoms. FD does not affect outcome following head injury.
An economic model to assess the value of triclosan-coated sutures in reducing the risk of surgical site infection in a mastectomy in India
Authors: Mahajan Nilesh S , Pillai Reshmi , Chopra Hitesh , Grover Ajay , Kohli Ashish
Published: September 2021

Background:

The comparison of triclosan-coated sutures (TCS) was made with conventional nonantimicrobial-coated sutures (NCS) to reduce surgical site infection (SSI). This study demonstrates the efficacy and economic outcome of TCS versus NCS for SSIs in mastectomy in India.

Methods:

In this retrospective analysis, 100 patients were included for both conditions—TCS and NCS—from a private and public hospital in India. A systematic literature search of available evidence for both SSI incidences and TCS efficacy data in India were gathered. We collected cost data from a private and public hospital, respectively, for mastectomy in India. The cost-effectiveness of TCS in comparison with the conventional NCS was calculated using a decision-tree deterministic model. We performed a one-way sensitivity analysis to compare TCS with NCS.

Results:

Cost savings with the use of TCS increased with an increase in SSI incidence and an increase in efficacy for mastectomies in both public and private hospitals. We found a base cost saving of Indian rupees (INR) 27,299 at a private hospital and INR 2,958 at a public hospital for mastectomies. The incremental cost of TCS suture was 0.01% in a private hospital whereas 0.17% in a public hospital.

Conclusion:

The use of TCS resulted in reduced SSI incidence and cost savings for mastectomy in India.
Auer rod-like inclusions in multiple myeloma
Authors: Mathur Arpita , Bansal Shashi , Sharma Upendra , Talwar Amandeep
Published: September 2021

Non-immunoglobulin intracytoplasmic inclusions in plasma cells of multiple myeloma are very rare presentation. These are morphologically similar to Auer rods but chemically different from them. We studied two cases of multiple myeloma in a 60-year-old woman and 45-year-old man. In both cases, plasma cells of bone marrow aspirate revealed multiple Auer rod-like inclusions (ARLI). Sudan black B (SBB) and myeloperoxidase (MPO) cytochemistry were negative. Serum protein electrophoresis in both of them showed M spike, one with raised IgA-kappa levels, while the other with raised IgG-kappa levels. Very few case reports have been published in the literature and its prognostic implications are still unknown. Due to its rarity, it is important to distinguish such cases from acute myeloid leukemia and its exact incidence with its therapeutic and prognostic implications.
The role of MRI and 18F-FDG PET/CT with respect to evaluation of pathological response in the rectal cancer patients after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Avcı Gulhan Guler , Aral Ipek Pinar
Published: September 2021

Background:

We aimed to evaluate the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography–computed tomography (PET-CT) in determining the correct stage and predicting the pathological response.

Methods:

Seventy one patients with pathologic proven rectal adenocarcinoma, clinical stage IIA-IVA, and neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (CRT) were evaluated retrospectively. Radiotherapy was delivered 45–50 Gy in 25 fractions with concomitant oral capecitabine. Pelvic MRI, colonoscopy, and 18F-FDG PET-CT were performed before the neoadjuvant treatment (NAT). After NAT, MRI and PET-CT were performed for re-evaluation.

Results:

The median follow-up time was 25 months (range: 3–57 months). Of the 71 patients who underwent NAT, 57 patients underwent surgery. Downstaging was recorded in 48 (84.2%) of 57 patients who underwent surgery. There was no statistically significant difference between both MRI and PET-CT with pathology results in terms of response evaluation. As a result of the comparison of MRI and PET-CT with pathological results; sensitivity and specificity were 91.6% (44/48) and 22.2% (2/9) for MRI, and 100% (47/47) and 12.5% (1/8) for PET-CT, respectively.

Conclusion:

PET-CT and MRI are effective in predicting response to NAT and predictive for the pathological response. A more accurate response can be judged when both PET-CT and MRI are executed together in restaging after NAT.
Screening practices for breast and cervical cancer and associated factors, among rural women in Vellore, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Saha Shubhashis , Priya S Mohana , Surender Anu , Jacob Rohan Chacko , George Michael Philip , Varghese Namitha Mary , Kumar Nishant , Eappen Noel , Kumar Prabhas Ranjan , Raymond Riya , Phillips Ashna Christine , Mathew Reuben Thomas , Vijayan Miji M , Sukhadhan Christina , Thomas Bincy Mary , Marconi Sam David , Sindhu Kulandaipalayam Natarajan , Oommen Anu Mary , John Sushil Mathew
Published: September 2021

Background:

Population-based screening coverage for breast and cervical cancer screening in the community is inadequately reported in India. This study assessed screening rates, awareness, and other factors affecting screening, among rural women aged 25–60 years in Vellore, Tamil Nadu.

Methods:

Women aged 25–60 years, from five randomly selected villages of a rural block were included in this cross-sectional study in Vellore, Tamil Nadu. Households were selected by systematic random sampling, followed by simple random sampling of eligible women in the house. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to assess screening practices, awareness, and other factors related to cervical and breast cancer.

Results:

Although 43.8% and 57.9% were aware of the availability of screening for cervical and breast cancer respectively, screening rates were only 23.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 18.4-28.4%) and 16.2% (95% CI: 11.9-20.5%), respectively. Adequate knowledge (score of ≥50%) on breast cancer was only 5.9%, with 27.2% for cervical cancer. Only 16.6% of women had ever attended any health education program on cancer. Exposure to health education (breast screening odds ratio [OR]: 6.89, 95% CI: 3.34-14.21; cervical screening OR: 6.92, 95% CI: 3.42-14.00); and adequate knowledge (breast OR: 4.69, 95% CI: 1.55-14.22; cervix OR: 3.01, 95% CI: 1.59-5.68) were independently associated with cancer screening.

Conclusion:

Awareness and screening rates for breast and cervical cancer are low among rural women in Tamil Nadu, a south Indian state with comparatively good health indices, with health education being an important factor associated with screening practices.
Acute kidney injury in ventilated patients with coronavirus disease-2019 pneumonia
Authors: Elkholi Mohamed Hamed , Alrais Zeyad Faoor , Algouhary Abdallah Reda , Al-Taie Muthana Salim , Sawwan Amr Abass , Khalafalla Abdelnasser Ahmed , Beniamein Maged Mohsen , Alkhouly Adel Elsaid , Shoaib Mohamed Ibrahim , Alkholy Hesham Elsaid , Abdel Hadi Ammar Mohamed , Abu Alkhair Ahmed Tarek
Published: September 2021

Background:

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is repeatedly observed in ventilated critically ill patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. This study aimed to determine the incidence, risk factors, and consequences of AKI in the ventilated critically ill adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods:

This retrospective study included all the ventilated critically ill adult patients with COVID-19 pneumonia from March 1, 2020, to June 1, 2020. Data were collected from the electronic medical system. AKI was diagnosed using the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes 2012 Clinical Practice definition. Patients were followed 90 days from the intensive care unit (ICU) admission time or to the date when they were discharged from the hospital.

Results:

AKI occurred in 65.1% of patients, with 26.6% of these started on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). Patients with AKI had higher comorbidity and illness severity scores (P < 0.001). Age and the vasopressor requirements were predictors of AKI (P= 0.016 and P = 0.041) and hypertension predicted AKI (P = 0.099) and its progression (P = 0.05). The renal recovery rate was 86.7% and was associated with the mean arterial pressure on ICU admission in the no-CRRT group (P = 0.014) and the hypoxic index in the CRRT group (P = 0.019). AKI was associated with higher mortality (P = 0.017) and significantly longer ICU length-of-stay (P = 0.001). Additionally, AKI patients were more often discharged to a long-term skilled nursing facility (P = 0.005).

Conclusion:

COVID-19-associated AKI was common and associated with poor outcome, with the specific mechanisms being the main driving factors.
The effect of a tiered provider staffing model on patient outcomes during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic
Authors: Dargin James , Stempek Susan , Lei Yuxiu , Gray Anthony , Liesching Timothy
Published: September 2021

Background:

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, our hospital experienced a large influx of critically ill patients with acute respiratory failure. In order to increase intensive care unit (ICU) surge capacity, we adopted a “tiered model” for ICU provider staffing where multiple ICUs were staffed by noncritical care providers under the direction of an intensivist. We hypothesized that ICUs staffed with a tiered model would result in similar patient outcomes as ICU staffed with a traditional intensivist model.

Methods:

We performed a single-center, observational study in seven ICUs at a tertiary care center. We included consecutive adults admitted to the ICU with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to COVID-19 infection. We collected baseline demographics, treatments, and outcomes of interest in traditionally staffed ICUs versus ICUs staffed with a tiered model. The primary outcome was inpatient mortality. All outcomes were censored at day 28.

Results:

We included a total of 138 patients in our study: 66 patients were admitted to traditionally staffed ICUs and 52 were admitted to tiered staffing ICUs. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. ARDS treatments were similar in traditionally staffed ICUs versus tiered staffing model ICUs, including daily mean tidal volume (6.2 mL/kg vs. 6.2 mL/kg, P = 0.95), median daily fluid balance (159 mL vs. 92 mL, P = 0.54), and use of prone ventilation (58% vs. 65%, P = 0.45). There was no difference in inpatient mortality between groups (50% vs. 42%, P = 0.46). We also found no difference in ventilator-free, ICU-free, vasopressor-free, and dialysis-free days between groups.

Conclusions:

Our results suggest that patient outcomes are similar in ICUs with traditional staffing models when compared to ICUs with a tiered staffing mode during a pandemic.
Association of Cord Blood Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 and Leptin Levels and Changes in Fetal Weight Gain in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Mexitalia Maria , Utari Agustini , Pratiwi Rina , Dewantiningrum Julian
Published: September 2021

Context:

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and leptin are hormones impacting somatic growth regulation and organ development in early fetal life.

Aims:

The study aimed to investigate the correlation between IGF-1 and leptin levels with birth weight and fetal weight gain during pregnancy third trimester.

Settings and Design:

A cohort study included 52 newborns from Semarang, Indonesia.

Subjects and Methods:

Serum IGF-1 and leptin were taken from the umbilical cord, and the estimated fetal weight in the third trimester was measured by ultrasound. Anthropometric data were plotted to the World Health Organization Fetal Growth Chart 2017. We divided three categories, i.e., weight gain faltering, if the infant decreased of two major percentiles (G1), normal weight gain (G2), and accelerated weight gain, whose increased more than two major percentiles (G3).

Statistical Analysis Used:

Fetal growth and other parameters were analyzed using Pearson's or Spearman's rho correlation. The comparison of IGF-1 and leptin levels among G1, G2, and G3 was analyzed by one-way ANOVA, least significant difference post hoc test, Kruskal–Wallis, and Mann–Whitney tests.

Results:

The mean IGF-1 level in G1 was 82.9 (25.9) ng/mL, G2 was 86.2 (28.9), and G3 was 134.8 (33.9), and there were significant differences between G1–G3 and G2–G3. Meanwhile, the levels of leptin among groups were not different. Birth weight was correlated with the level of IGF-1 (r = 0.456, P = 0.001) and leptin (r = 0.39, P = 0.004), and maternal body mass index was correlated with cord blood leptin.

Conclusions:

This study indicated that a higher IGF-1 and leptin cord blood level is correlated with larger birth weight.
Unusual Presentation of Cow's Milk Protein Allergy in a Neonate
Authors: Palanisamy Sudhakar , Srinivasan Ramesh , Perumal Thirumal
Published: September 2021

Cow's milk protein allergy is the most common food protein allergy in children. We report a neonate on breast feeds and formula feeds presenting on day 9 of life with blood in stools, anemia, shock, respiratory failure with multiorgan dysfunction, and recovered with intensive care. Colonoscopy and biopsy confirmed the diagnosis as allergic colitis. Neonate improved with cow's milk protein-eliminated diet. Food protein allergy can present with protean signs and symptoms; high index of suspicion is needed for the prompt early diagnosis.
Hand hygiene compliance – Improvement with multimodal approach in intensive care unit setting
Authors: Garg Saloni , Malhotra Shalini , Pritikumari Patel , Kaur Amarjit , Kaur Nirmaljit , Duggal Nandini
Published: September 2021

Introduction:

Healthcare associated infections (HCAIs) pose a significant risk to patient's health with increasing morbidity and mortality. A large portion of HCAI can be prevented by hand hygiene, but adherence to hand hygiene has been found to be very low.

Methodolgy:

This study was conducted to assess the rate of hand hygiene compliance during 'my five moments of hand hygiene' as per the WHO guidelines in our intensive care units and to implement multimodal intervention strategies to improve hand hygiene compliance.

Results:

The average compliance amongst all HCWs in both ICUs was 45.7% before sensitisation which increased to 85.4% after sensitisation using multimodal strategies.

Conclusion:

Multimodal Intervention strategies such as the one we employed had a good impact in improving compliance in our ICU and these improvements can be easily duplicated in healthcare settings across the country.
Step wise protocol for body wash in critically ill patients in intensive care units
Authors: Kaur Kulbeer , Kaur Surinder , Shankarnarayan Shamanth Adekhandi , Shylla Nishi , Jain Neha , Biswal Manisha , Jain Kajal
Published: September 2021

Background:

During active surveillance done by Biswal et al. in 2017, to investigate fungal colonisation and infection in the trauma intensive care unit, several flaws were recorded in patient body wash protocol. Candida auris colonisation was rapidly increasing due to improper body washing. Several patients admitted eventually got colonised with C. auris at different body sites, predominantly in axilla and groin.

Aims:

To devise a novel and simplified chlorhexidine-based body wash protocol to eradicate bacterial and fungal colonisers.

Materials and Methods:

A detailed, systematic, standard and practical protocol for body wash depending on the specific work culture and resource availability is required to ensure standard nursing care. Therefore, a simplified chlorhexidine based, step wise body wash protocol to eradicate fungal colonisers which can be implemented and followed in every hospital setting was designed. This new protocol was implemented in the trauma intensive care unit (ICU) for 1 month. Successful implementation of the decolonisation procedure was assessed based on the feedback obtained from the nursing staff.

Results:

The newly devised chlorhexidine based body wash protocol was successfully able to decolonise C. auris from the body sites such as axilla and groin of ICU patients. Easy and simplified protocol could be followed by nursing staff as well as patient attendants. Nursing staff provided positive feedback in implementing and following the new protocol.

Conclusion:

The protocol can be easily implemented in any hospital settings with minimum resources. This new protocol can significantly reduce fungal and bacterial colonisation and hospital acquired infections.
Change in perception regarding the use of Biometric devices at a tertiary care hospital in view of COVID-19
Authors: Garg Saloni , Achra Arvind , Tiwary Narendra Kumar , Nirmal Kirti , Arora Stuti Kansra , Shulania Anuradha , Duggal Nandini
Published: September 2021

Background:

Fingerprint biometric systems are used to identify personnel, grant authorised access and maintain attendance of staff at most places. Despite their many benefits, biometric devices are potential sources of transmission due to contamination from multiple touches by various users. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been massive shift in infection control practices specially hand hygiene. This study was conducted to understand the attitude and practices of healthcare workers (HCWs) they are likely to follow when biometric devices come to use again.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted using a self-designed questionnaire given to HCWs in different departments of the hospital in the form of a written form by our infection control nurses. The study was conducted for 5 days. The questionnaire was based on various attitudes and practices before and after the COVID-19 outbreak.

Results:

Overall 304 participants filled the questionnaire, which comprised 85 (28%) doctors, 117 (38.4%) nurses and 102 (33.6%) other staff. Before the emergence of COVID-19, 114 (37.5%) participants felt touching biometric devices is more dangerous than touching other common items such as doorknobs, elevator buttons, countertops and staircase railings which now increased to 183 (60.2%) after the COVID-19. Earlier 77% of participants felt that hand sanitisers should be installed near biometric devices, but now 95.7% feel the need of hand sanitisers near the biometric devices and want to use them.

Conclusion:

This improvement in hand hygiene might be a result of increased awareness through educational programmes and mass media during the COVID-19 pandemic. Hand sanitisers should be installed near biometric devices before restarting their use which will reduce the risk of contamination of biometric devices by pathogenic organisms.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Swiss pregnant and breastfeeding women – a cross-sectional study covering the first pandemic wave
Authors: Lambelet Valentine , Ceulemans Michael , Nordeng Hedvig , Favre Guillaume , Horsch Antje , Stojanov Milos , Winterfeld Ursula , Baud David , Panchaud Alice , Pomar Léo
Published: September 2021

Information on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on pregnancy and breastfeeding experiences, as well as on perinatal mental health in Switzerland is limited. In Switzerland, there are few national studies and little information. Using an anonymous online survey accessible after the first wave of the outbreak in Switzerland, we have investigated how this pandemic affected pregnant and breastfeeding women. Among women who completed the survey, 69.0% (1050/1518) indicated the first wave of the pandemic affected their personal habits, 61.0% (689/1131) were affected in their work and 40.0% (632/1573) reported impaired relations with healthcare services (different denominators correspond to the number of participants who answered the question). 36.8% (110/299) of women reported an impact of the pandemic on their current pregnancy experience or breastfeeding experience (8.2%, 46/555). Overall, 11.6% (170/1467) of participants who completed the validated screening tests for mental health symptoms (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7, Perceived Stress Scale) presented a score compatible with symptoms of major depression, severe anxiety or high perceived stress, which is higher than in the pre-pandemic period according to literature. Risk factors independently associated with impaired mental health were being hospitalized, having symptoms of COVID-19, living with a person with COVID-19 symptoms, having comorbidities, having experienced reduced healthcare services, having restricted usual activities and being a housewife. Protective factors independently associated were a high level of education and living with a partner. Our findings suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic might have significantly affected the well-being and mental health of pregnant and breastfeeding women, directly in the case of exposure, and indirectly as a result of the potential modifications in their life habits and in healthcare facilities.
Mortality monitoring in Switzerland
Authors: Weitkunat Rolf , Junker Christoph , Caviezel Seraina , Fehst Katharina
Published: September 2021

The Federal Statistical Office publishes weekly national and regional mortality reports online for Switzerland for the age groups 0 to <65 and 65+ years, which refer to deaths up to 9 days prior to the publication date. In addition to observed numbers of death events, expected numbers are reported, which allows  detection of periods of excess mortality and its quantification. As with previous periods of excess mortality, in 2020 the monitoring detected and quantified excess mortality during the two waves of the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic in Switzerland. During the year, the epidemic resulted in well over 10% more deaths than expected, mainly in individuals aged 65 years and above. Because of the profound impact of the epidemic, interest in the weekly mortality publication and its underlying methodology increased sharply. From inquiries and from newspaper and tabloid publications on the matter it became abundantly evident that the principles of the mortality monitoring were not well understood in general; mortality monitoring was even regularly confused with cause of death statistics. The present article therefore aims at elucidating the methodology of national mortality monitoring in Switzerland and at putting it into its public health context.
The role of children and adolescents in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a rapid review
Authors: Wiedenmann Margarethe , Goutaki Myrofora , Keiser Olivia , Stringhini Silvia , Tanner Marcel , Low Nicola
Published: September 2021

BACKGROUND: There has been much discussion about coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and the virus that causes it, severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) in children and adolescents, since the pandemic was recognised in early 2020. Understanding their role in this pandemic is important for the development of appropriate prevention measures.
OBJECTIVE: To summarise evidence about three aspects of SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 in children and adolescents: (1) severity of SARS-CoV-2 presentation, (2) risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection and (3) risk of transmitting SARS-CoV-2.
METHODS: We searched PubMed and MedRxiv for studies on SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 in children and adolescents from January 2020 to 21 January 2021. The electronic search was supplemented by papers found in a manual search or suggested by experts up to 29 March 2021. We included case reports, cross-sectional studies, cohort studies, narrative reviews or viewpoints, systematic reviews and modelling studies. We synthesised the information descriptively and attempted to report findings separately for: infants and small children (0–5 years) who are mostly pre-school; school children (6–12 years) broadly covering primary school years; and adolescents (13–17 years).
RESULTS: Of 2778 screened articles, we included 63 (20 case reports, 18 cross-sectional studies, 8 cohort studies, 6 narrative reviews or viewpoints, 10 systematic reviews and 1 modelling study). Children (≤12 years of age) and adolescents (13–17 years of age) usually present with mild disease, with few requiring intensive care treatment. A minority of children of all ages (<18 years) remains asymptomatic throughout the course of infection. In serological studies, reported symptoms are similar in children with and without SARS-CoV-2 antibodies. Children and adolescents can acquire and transmit SARS-CoV-2. The risks of acquiring and transmitting SARS-CoV-2 seems to increase with age. There was limited information about SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern. Poor reporting of age groups and contextual factors such as levels of community transmission, school closures and other non-pharmaceutical interventions make synthesis of findings across studies difficult.
CONCLUSIONS: The clinical presentation and role of children and adolescents in SARS-CoV-2 susceptibility and transmission needs further investigation, particularly with regard to variants of concern. Large, prospective studies that attempt to minimise biases in design, are analysed appropriately and reported comprehensively should be conducted.
Vaccination willingness for COVID-19 among healthcare workers: a cross-sectional survey in a Swiss canton
Authors: Zürcher Kathrin , Mugglin Catrina , Egger Matthias , Müller Sandro , Fluri Michael , Bolick Laurence , Piso Rein Jan , Hoffmann Matthias , Fenner Lukas
Published: September 2021

AIMS OF THE STUDY: Vaccination is regarded as the most promising response to the COVID-19 pandemic. We assessed opinions about COVID-19 vaccination, willingness to be vaccinated, and reasons for vaccination hesitancy among healthcare workers.
METHODS: We conducted a cross-sectional, web-based survey among 3,793 healthcare workers in December 2020 in the Canton of Solothurn, Switzerland, before the start of the national COVID-19 vaccination campaign.
RESULTS: Median age was 43 years (interquartile range [IQR] 31–53), 2,841 were female (74.9%). A total of 1,511 healthcare workers (39.8%) reported willingness to accept vaccination, whereas 1,114 (29.4%) were unsure and 1,168 (30.8%) would decline vaccination. Among medical doctors, 76.1% were willing, whereas only 27.8% of nurses expressed willingness. Among the 1,168 healthcare workers who would decline vaccination, 1,073 (91.9%) expressed concerns about vaccine safety and side effects. The willingness of healthcare workers to be vaccinated was associated with older age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.97, 95% confidence interval [Cl] 1.71–2.27) and having been vaccinated for influenza this year (aOR 2.70, 95% Cl 2.20–3.31). Healthcare workers who reported a lack of confidence in government were less likely to be willing to be vaccinated (aOR 0.58, 95% Cl 0.40–0.84), and women were less willing to be vaccinated than men (OR 0.33, 95% CI 0.28–0.38).
CONCLUSION: Less than half of healthcare workers reported willingness to be vaccinated before the campaign start, but proportions varied greatly depending on profession and workplace. Strategies with clear and objective messages that particularly address the concerns of healthcare workers are needed if their willingness to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is to be further increased.
Decentralisation and Democratisation in Local Government Focusing Key Development Programs in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Abul , Habib Ahsan
Published: September 2021

The local government system is considered to be the main regulator of good governance in a country. Although the local government system in Bangladesh is very old, it has tiny achievements in terms of its effectiveness, decentralisation of power, democratic practices, and public participation. After the country's independence, almost all the governments have come up with the innovation of different levels of local government structures was just nomenclature. They never allowed the local people to enjoy autonomy by their elected representatives in the way directed by the constitution. On the other hand, various local and international development partners have been implementing various programs to strengthen the local government system in Bangladesh, decentralise it and ensure public engagement in local government. Through which some positive elements have been added to the issue of autonomy and participation of the people in the local government system; however, it is significantly minor than required. This research paper seeks to understand the process of democratisation and decentralisation in the local government system of Bangladesh by fieldwork-based research knowledge and review various initiatives taken for the development of the local government system. Besides, drawing on literature and the observations and research on Union Parishad (the lowest tier of local government in Bangladesh), the interrelationship between local government elections and power structure has also been analysed in this article. Ultimately, this paper argues that the process of decentralisation and strengthening of the local government system in Bangladesh through development interventions. Though the interventions of development programs could have been mammoth achievements in the path of democratisation and decentralisation, the party politicisation has made massive impediments to attain the targets.
Decision Support Model for Evaluating the Performance of Tutor’s Teaching using Moodle
Authors:   Computer Science Department, BINUS Graduate Program – Master of Computer Science, Bina Nusantara University, Jakarta, Indonesia., Aryan Mira , Utama Ditdit Nugeraha
Published: September 2021

Tutors as online teachers assume a significant part in the achievement of learning success. The capacity of an actual tutor is to instruct and work responsibly according to the learning objectives. The main goal of this research is to propose a decision support model (DSM) which is worked for tutor performance evaluation. Fuzzy AHP and hill climbing are the main method operated scientifically in this study, which both are utilized to analyse, design, and develop the constructed model. By utilizing log information on the Moodle platform, a study can be conducted, where the measurement of tutor performance is selected as the object of research using eleven parameters; like assignment feedback, assignment score, discussion feedback, discussion score, participation, motivation, teaching style, communication, concern, approach, and critical thinking. Later, such a model is going to be a problem solver in helping decision makers in deciding a decision to upgrade the tutors
Characterization of Electromagnetic Device by Means of Spice Models
Authors:   Dipartimento Energia, Politecnico di Torino, Corso Duca degli Abruzzi 24, I-10129 Torino, Italy., Canova Aldo , Gruosso Giambattista , Quercio Michele
Published: September 2021

— In this paper, the lumped parameter circuital approach devoted to the simulation of massive, conductive, and ferromagnetic cores including eddy currents and nonlinearity is presented. In the first part of the paper, the circuit analogies devoted to the simulation of magnetic structure coupled with external electrical and eventually mechanical equations are summarised. The two techniques are known in the literature as reluctance-resistance and permeancecapacitance analogies. In particular, it is put in evidence the exploitation of the gyrator component in the modelling of the coupling among magnetic and electrical quantities. The originality of this paper consists in demonstrating for the first time that the rotator-capacitor approach is very suitable for simulations in spice environment and the solution is validated on real applications. Following the circuital approach, the effect of the conductivity and nonlinear magnetic behaviour of the magnetic branches is formalized and introduced in the model. The simulation of the conductivity behaviour, which introduces in massive cores significant eddy current effects, is modelled according to the two possible analogies: the reluctance and the permeance-capacitor model. Under sinusoidal steady-state behaviour, energy aspects related to the two models are then presented and discussed. The nonlinearity is taken into account through the fixed-point technique which is suitable for a lumped circuit representation. The full circuital approach is then adopted for the simulation of the real electromechanical actuator under transient and sinusoidal steady-state behaviour conditions. The simulated result is then compared with numerical finite element and experimental result
The Determining the Flight Routes of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Groups Based on Improved Ant Colony Algorithms
Authors:   Ivan Kozhedub Kharkiv National Air Force University, Ukraine., Khudov Hennadii , Oleksenko Oleksandr , Lukianchuk Vadym , Herasymenko Volodymyr , Yaroshenko Yaroslav , Ishchenko Oleksiy , Ikaіev Dmytro , Golovchenko Oleg , Volobuiev Anatolii , Drob Yevhen , Solomonenko Yuriy , Khizhnyak Irina
Published: September 2021

It is proposed to use an improved ant colony algorithm to determine the flight paths of unmanned aerial vehicles groups to the objects of intrest. A study was conducted on the application of the MAX-MIN Ant System to simultaneously determine the flight paths of several groups of unmanned aerial vehicles from different airfields to different objects of interest. Obstacles in the path of the unmanned aerial vehicles flight are also taken into account. As an example, the problem of a unmanned aerial vehicles breakthrough of an air defense system is considered. The number of unmanned aerial vehicles required to destroy the object of impact with a given probability is taken into account. The efficiency of the algorithm in the conditions of non - stationary environment is also investigated. Keywords— unmanned aerial vehicle, group, ant colony algorithm, route, flight, optimization
LiDAR/ToF Sensor System Based Various Applications: A Review
Authors:   Dept. of Computing Fundamentals, FPT University, Hanoi, Vietnam., Pham Giao N. , Nguyen Binh A.
Published: September 2021

Abstract— The review article will first introduce the basic concept of LiDAR/ToF (Light detection and ranging based on time of flight) sensor system. Then, numerous applications based on LiDAR/ToF sensor are given in specific fields such as consumer electronics, industrial, smart-city, autonomous vehicles, and space & military. In addition, the technology trends and road map of those products are also discussed in detail. This review will be great references for sales, marketing, and researchers whom plan to work on LiDAR technology. Keywords—Self-driving car, Light distance and ranging, Time of flight, 3D camera.
Integrity and Authenticity of Digital Images by Digital Forensic Analysis of Metadata
Authors:   Análisis Digital Forense (ADF-Lab), Análisis Digital Forense del Ministerio Público, Lima-Peru, Benancio Lizbardo Orellano , Canales Ricardo Muñoz , Leon Paolo Rodriguez , Huamaní Enrique Lee
Published: September 2021

Abstract—During various court hearings, the thesis that every authentic digital file has precise metadata of its creation date was questioned.In this way, the problem was raised which indicates, if the metadata of a digital file (Image) whose label records the date of creation by the recording device of a digital image file are accurate and reliable.For this reason, during the forensic analysis carried out in this work, a record of the metadata of five (05) digital image files from known sources is shown and where their characteristics have been detailed, in addition a record of the metadata of the images used that were later manipulated with image editing software with which metadata comparisons were made to show the labels that suffered modifications in their content.Finally, the obtaining of HASH code with the SHA - 256 algorithm is shown, for digital assurance, of the edited and original files whose comparison allows observing the changes in the content at a binary level. Keywords—Crime; Cybercrime; Digital Image; HASH; Metadata
Mobile Application for the Monitoring and Control of Electrical Energy Consumption through a Meter Made with Arduino
Authors:   Systems engineer program, Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades, Lima-Peru, Dionisio Keyla Nalvarte , Nuñez Carlos Diaz , Delgado Alexi , Huamaní Enrique Lee
Published: September 2021

Abstract— This year, citizens were complaining that the power companies were overcharging their bills because of the pandemic, but investigations in previous years also showed claims in Peru and internationally. In this work, the Scrum Methodology was used for the development of the mobile application and the Balsamiq tool was used for the design of the prototype. In addition, the Arduino tool was used for the electricity consumption meter. As for the case study, we developed the prototypes of the application with its functions and the methodology of how it is elaborated, at the same time we described the way in which the meter will be implemented with Arduino. The results obtained from the research are that people can compare the consumption of the bill issued by the electricity company and the consumption shown by the Arduino meter, in addition to the union of the mobile application with the meter will allow them to consult the consumption and also issue reports having a better control of electricity. This work can be implemented not only in the cities, but also in remote places where traditional meters have not been implemented. Keywords— Arduino; Mobile applications; Power consumption; Scrum methodology
Design of a Hot Air Balloons for Wireless Internet Transmission in Awajún Communities in Huampami, Amazonas-Perú
Authors:   Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades & Av. Universitaria 5175, Los Olivos 15304, Peru, Pérez Percy Poquis , Claudio Brian Meneses , Delgado Alexi
Published: September 2021

Abstract— One of the problems that causes educational inequality is the lack of access to Internet service, this is what happens in the Awajún communities in Huampami Amazonas– Perú, a remote area abandoned by the Peruvian state where Internet access is scarce. According to the province, at the primary level, in Condorcanqui only 5.29% have access to the internet, while at the secondary level 32.43% have access to the Internet service. That is why in this research work, it is proposed to bring the internet service through a point-to-point link using hot air balloons, because this wireless technology has a better performance in terms of service availability, latency, and transmission speed. Finally, through the Radio Mobile software and Google Earth, the simulation of the point-to-point link is carried out where a line of sight is obtained as a result, which indicates that it is feasible to make a radio link, in addition a reception level of - 49.8 dBm and a distance between the two points of 7.79km, it is also determined that the hot air balloon must be at a height of 90 meters for the coverage to be greater. Keywords— Education; Point to Point Link; Radio Mobile; rural zone; radiolink
Design of a Thermal Imaging System to Detect Possible Cases of COVID-19 Patients
Authors:   Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades & Av. Universitaria 5175, Los Olivos 15304, Peru, Tapia Luis Nuñez , Claudio Brian Meneses , Díaz Witman Alvarado
Published: September 2021

Abstract— The problem that the world is currently facing and that has claimed more than 3.2 million lives worldwide is COVID-19. Being a highly contagious disease, the WHO recommended limiting the movement of people out of their residence. Given this, Peru took the necessary measures to control the spread of this virus, therefore, the government decreed a general quarantine in the country, which from March 6th to May 9th, 2020, had reported the death of 1814 people in the country, because the health system at the national level was not prepared for such magnitude, in addition to that the number of infections continued to grow since they do not respect social distancing. In view of this problem, this article will design a thermal image processing system to detect possible cases of patients with COVID-19, in such a way that it allows companies or institutions to know the body temperature of each person, and thus know they are possibly COVID-19 patients. Through the design of this system, it will be possible to measure body temperature with the drone and the thermal camera at 50 cm from the person, in such a way that if the person has a body temperature higher than 38°C it could be infected with COVID-19. Therefore, the implementation of this system will help reduce the number of infections within an institution or workplace. Keywords-- Thermal camera, COVID-19, Drone, MATLAB, Image.
Design of a Ventilation Control System in Underground Mines and Tunnels
Authors:   Universidad de Ciencias y Humanidades & Av. Universitaria 5175, Los Olivos 15304, Peru, VaraCadillo Marcos Hernández , Claudio Brian Meneses , Delgado Alexi
Published: September 2021

Abstract— Today no one is free of accidents, especially in high-risk work environments such as in-mine and/or tunnel work. It is quite common that in this type of high-risk activities and where evacuation accesses are distant from the area of operations, the response time plays an important role in the event of a dangerous event, which can materialize in an accident if necessary. you do not act quickly. Having a realtime ventilation monitoring and control system helps us as a tool to prevent a possible risk event. This control system, by constantly monitoring the ventilation inside the tunnel or inside the mine, can send us an alert to a web server that can be monitored through a computer and/or a smartphone that is on the surface when there is a lack of air, when the temperature rises considerably and the humidity begins to rise or the air flow is minimal then the system will activate an alert to the different monitoring or control devices. Additionally, this prototype contributes to saving energy because it will automate the switching on of the fans only in the presence of people in the work area. This prototype thus achieves real-time supervision and allows us to make the best decision when faced with an event that endangers human life in the workplace. Keywords—Temperature; esp-32; Arduino; air sensor, mine, ventilation, work safe