bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Il paradosso del lockdown da COVID-19: cosa accade alle donne e ai minori nei contesti maltrattanti
Authors: Di Pentima Lorenza , Toni Alessandro
Published: February 2022

Nel 2020, a causa della pandemia dovuta al virus SARS-CoV-2, in tutto il mondo è stato attivato il lockdown, richiedendo di rimanere nelle proprie abituazioni per frenare il contagio. Se l'isolamento domestico ha rappresentato la misura più efficace per limitare la diffusione del virus, per le vittime di violenza domestica, soprattutto donne e minori, ciò ha costituito un aumento del rischio di subire violenze fisiche, sessuali, psicologiche ed assistite. Molte le ragioni all'origine di tale fenomeno: l'incertezza dell'evoluzione della patologia e la precarietà economica hanno rappresentato fattori di maggiore stress, a cui si sono aggiunti la convivenza forzata tra la vittima e il suo abusante, e l'aumentato controllo di quest'ultimo, elementi che hanno incentivato il ripetersi degli episodi di violenza. Inoltre, per le vittime è stato quasi impossibile richiedere aiuto, poiché con il lockdown non si poteva lasciare la propria abitazione e i servizi del territorio non hanno potuto garantire una vigilanza continuativa sulle situazioni più a rischio. Infine, in accordo con la letteratura, è stato riscontrato che la maggior parte delle vittime, per il loro assetto psicologico, derivante dall'aver subito a lungo violenze di ogni tipo, ritengono di avere poco controllo sugli eventi e di non poter ricevere aiuto da parte degli altri; così per lo più hanno rinunciato a richiedere un intervento esterno per uscire dalla spirale della violenza.
L'impatto della pandemia e delle relazioni familiari sulle condotte aggressive in adolescenza
Authors: De Angelis Grazia , Dragone Mirella , De Masi Federica
Published: February 2022

L'obiettivo di questo studio è di indagare l'associazione tra l'impatto della pandemia da COVID-19 sulla vita degli adolescenti e delle loro famiglie e il comportamento aggressivo, analizzando inoltre il ruolo di moderazione del calore genitoriale. 1.053 adolescenti hanno compilato un questionario online che andava a valutare: l'impatto della pandemia sugli adolescenti e sull'armonia familiare, il calore, il comportamento aggressivo e la percezione di cambiamento del comportamento aggressivo durante il lockdown. Due modelli di equazioni strutturali sono stati testati per valutare le relazioni tra le variabili. I risultati hanno evidenziato: a) l'associazione tra un maggiore impatto personale della pandemia e livelli più elevati di aggressività e di incremento di questa; b) l'associazione tra un maggiore impatto sull'armonia familiare della pandemia e l'incremento dei comportamenti aggressivi; c) il ruolo protettivo del calore.
Adolescenza e tendenza alle abbuffate di alcol: il controllo psicologico come antecedente dei comportamenti a rischio
Authors: Liga Francesca , Verrastro Valeria , Nocito Marzia , Cristina Gugliandolo Maria
Published: February 2022

Recenti studi hanno dimostrato come la tendenza alle abbuffate di alcol rappresenti un fattore di rischio per la salute dell'adolescente. Tra gli antecedenti di natura contestuale dei comportamenti a rischio in adolescenza, le pratiche genitoriali rivestono un ruolo importante. L'obiettivo del presente studio è quello di indagare la relazione tra alcune pratiche genitoria-li, come il controllo psicologico e il supporto all'autonomia, e la tendenza alle abbuffate di alcol. 568 partecipanti, tra i 14 e i 17 anni, hanno compilato alcuni self report relativi all'uso di alcol e alla percezione delle pratiche genitoriali. I risultati hanno evidenziato una relazione positiva tra controllo psicologico e abbuffate di alcol. Questo studio contribuisce all'avanzamento della letteratura in merito al ruolo di pratiche parentali controllanti e disfunzionali nell'eziologia di condotte a rischio.
Stesse case, diversi abitanti: trasformazioni sociali e abitative nel quartiere Vanchiglia di Torino
Authors: Tucci Violetta
Published: February 2022

L'articolo indaga il nesso tra le trasformazioni sociali e abitative avvenute in un quartiere della città di Torino, Vanchiglia, considerando la prospettiva della casa come bene materiale e immateriale. L'obiettivo è descrivere se e come i cambiamenti demografici e di composizione sociale abbiano contribuito a una determinata accezione di casa. Il contributo indaga in primo luogo l'omogeneità della composizione sociale del quartiere e in secondo luogo quello relativo alle condizioni abitative. Attraverso l'elaborazione di dati secondari di natura amministrativa e la conduzione di interviste a testimoni privilegiati verranno presentati i risultati della relazione esistente tra i cambiamenti della composizione sociale e abitativa.
Sviluppo legale ed ecosostenibile nelle aree rurali svantaggiate del sud Italia: il ruolo delle imprese sociali
Authors: Fazzi Luca
Published: February 2022

Lo scopo di questo articolo è di analizzare empiricamente il ruolo che le imprese sociali giocano all'interno di una più ampia strategia per lo sviluppo rurale in aree del sud Italia afflitte dalla presenza di criminalità organizzata e difficoltà di sviluppo. La ricerca è basata su 20 interviste in profondità con presidenti e dirigenti di organizzazioni di agricoltura sociale in quattro regioni meridionali: Puglia, Calabria, Campania e Sicilia. I risultati mostrano come le imprese sociali sono attori rilevanti per il cambiamento e per lo sviluppo economico e sociale nelle aree rurali. L'indagine mette in luce inoltre come anche altri fattori politici, organizzativi e di contesto sono importanti per rendere capaci le imprese sociali di promuovere sviluppo locale.
THE PSYCHOLOGY OF TEACHERS AND STUDENTS DURING THE PANDEMIC PROCESS AND THE WAYS TO COPE WITH STRESS
Authors: Uzun Gizem Öneri
Published: February 2022

In the ongoing pandemic process, there are many changes, uncertainties and differences at every stage of education, as is the case all over the world. While it is an important situation for teachers and students to move forward by accepting this fact, every person in the world has their own responsibilities regarding the current situation. Education and training processes have a very important place in the current pandemic conditions. It is known that doing things that can be done from home during the pandemic is a good method to save lives.  At this point, it was seen as inevitable that education should continue from home. All positive and negative situations experienced in this process are important on the psychology of teachers and students in education life. By using technology, getting out of the usual situation and giving education as a teacher and trainer from home and getting education as a student are among the most important factors that create stress. It is best to minimize this stress level and to use the most appropriate methods of coping with stress and to turn this situation into a positive one with the cooperation of teachers and students. In the process, the psychological effects of distance education system on teacher and student have shown differences and similarities according to each level. Active participation of students in their lessons, providing a good learning environment and motivating teachers to their students will reduce the level of negative stress in the process in a psychological sense. At this level of stress, personal responsibility is more important in the distance education system. This study examines the teacher and student psychology related to the pandemic process and the scientific literature on coping with stress, and it is considered important in terms of contributing to the field and guiding the researchers who will work in the field.

 

 

Key Words: Distance Education, Teacher, Student, Psychology, Stress.
CONTENT ANALYSIS OF CURRICULUM DEVELOPMENT RELATED STUDIES DURING: 2000 – 2019
Authors: Jawabreh Reem , Gunduz Nuket
Published: February 2022

This study purposes to perform a content analysis to define the general framework of studies related to curriculum development. For this reason, 100 articles were studied between 2000 to 2010 related to curriculum development in terms of journals, the year of publication, countries, aims, development mechanism, methodology. The qualitative approach was used to analyze and describe data through frequency and percentage. The findings indicated that strategies and methods of teaching and needs assessment, implementation, and evaluation are the topics that discussed in studies frequently, the most studies related to curriculum were noticed to have been that discussed between 2015 to 2019, and it was revealed the order of countries which concern to curriculum, the qualitative research approach was most utilized in studies. Future studies should concentrate on curriculum development.

 

Keywords: Curriculum, Curriculum Development, Content Analysis
Older forensic mental healthcare patients in England: demographics, physical health, mental wellbeing, cognitive ability and quality of life
Authors: Tomlin Jack , Walker Kate , Yates Jen , Dening Tom , Völlm Birgit , Griffiths Chris
Published: February 2022

Background: Older individuals (e.g., 55 years and over) constitute a growing proportion of the forensic mental health patient population. As a group, they are vulnerable to health outcomes similar to other individuals with serious mental disorders of the same age; however, these concerns can be compounded by complex forensic-related care backgrounds and clinical presentations, lengthy periods of time spent in prison or psychiatric hospitals, substance use histories, and crime perpetration or victimisation. The healthcare needs and strengths of this group are not well understood.

The aim of this study was to identify and describe the demographic, physical health, mental wellbeing, cognitive ability, and quality of life profiles of older forensic patients in community, low, medium, and high security settings in England.

Methods: A cross-sectional mixed-methods study design was used. N=37 forensic patients aged 55 years and over were interviewed and completed questionnaires. Data were also collected from patient records.

Results: Most patients were male and were diagnosed with psychosis. The most frequently committed index offence types were violent offences. Patients were prescribed 7.6 medications on average and had average anticholinergic effect on cognition scores of 2.4. Nearly half the sample had diabetes, with an average BMI score of 31.7 (indicating obesity). Possible cognitive impairment was identified in 65% of the sample. Patients’ assessments of their recovery-related quality of life and mental wellbeing did not differ from published UK general population values. Assessments of quality of life were positively correlated with the ability to undertake everyday activities and cognitive performance.

Conclusions: We suggest that forensic services are well-placed to provide holistic mental and physical care to this group but that they should co-develop with patients a greater range of age-appropriate meaningful activities that are mindful of mobility issues and consider implementing more cognition-based and physical health interventions.
Microplastics in Aquatic Environments: Recent Advances in Separation Techniques
Authors: Hooriabad Saboor Fahimeh , Hadian-Ghazvini Samaneh , Torkashvand Mohammad
Published: February 2022

Separation and removal of microplastic pollution from aquatic environments as a global environmental issue is classified as one of the major concerns in both water and wastewater treatment plants. Microplastics as polymeric particles less than 5 mm in at least one dimension are found with different shapes, chemical compositions, and sizes in soil, water, and sediments. Conventional treatment methods for organic separation have shown high removal efficiency for microplastics, while the separation of small microplastic particles, mainly less than 100 µm, in wastewater treatment plants is particularly challenging. This review aims to review the principle and application of different physical and chemical methods for the separation and removal of microplastic particles from aquatic environments, especially in water treatments process, with emphasis on some alternative and emerging separation methods. Advantages and disadvantages of conventional separation techniques such as clarification, sedimentation, floatation, activated sludge, sieving, filtration, and density separation are discussed. The advanced separation methods can be integrated with conventional techniques or utilize as a separate step for separating small microplastic particles. These advanced microplastic separation methods include membrane bioreactor, magnetic separation, micromachines, and degradation-based methods such as electrocatalysis, photocatalysis, biodegradation, and thermal degradation.
Monitoring and Regulation of Indoor Conditions
Authors: Stojkov Marinko , Crnogorac Krešimir , Alinjak Tomislav , Crnogorac Bernarda
Published: February 2022

This paper presents research of energy performance analysis performed by Building Energy Management System (BEMS). BEMS is a system/platform integrated with building and it is an enormous improvement in a process to develop nearly zero energy buildings (nZEB). Near zero energy consumption stands for energy efficient idea of energy independent buildings for their function during their life time. Here, BEMS with function of monitoring and regulation of cooling energy demand is developed. BEMS regulates function of ventilation fan in area below tin roof and improves working conditions by inside building temperature reduction during summer period. Described technical solution is designed inside RESCUE IPA CBC project.
Generación de bienestar en salud en América Latina y el Caribe: Un modelo DEA en presencia de bad outputs
Authors: Ayvar Campos Francisco Javier , Zamora Torres América Ivonne
Published: February 2022

América Latina y el Caribe durante el período 1980-2015 vivió una serie de transformaciones estructurales que incidió notablemente en la dinámica de sus principales indicadores socioeconómicos. Es así como el producto interno bruto, la inversión extranjera directa, la formación bruta de capital, el gasto público, las exportaciones, las importaciones y el personal ocupado crecieron notablemente en estos arios. Sin embargo, indicadores como la pobreza, inequidad, marginación y migración siguieron la misma tendencia; consecuencia de la desigualdad entre los países y al interior de los mismos. Es así como a pesar de ser una región económicamente dinámica e inserta en los modelos económicos de desarrollo que siguen los países desarrollados está integrada por economías emergentes y con bajos niveles de desarrollo humano (Banco Mundial, 2018; PNUD, 2018).

El objetivo del documento es determinar qué tan eficiente fueron 29 economías emergentes de la región de América Latina y el Caribe en la utilización de sus recursos para generar bienestar en salud y a la par reducir la desnutrición durante el período 1980-2015. Para alcanzar dicho objetivo se parte de reconocer que el desarrollo humano es un proceso que permite que los individuos, y por ende la sociedad, alcance altos niveles de bienestar (Griffin, 2001). Siendo la salud un elemento clave para obtener dicho bienestar, ya que se encuentra muy vinculado con las otras dimensiones del desarrollo humano (Casas-Zamora, 2002). De esta forma, se considera que incidir en el uso eficiente de los recursos para generar bienestar en salud y reducir a la vez la desnutrición contribuirá a acrecentar el bienestar social de las economías emergentes de América Latina y el Caribe.

La técnica que se aplicó para medir la eficiencia fue el Análisis Envolvente de Datos (DEA) (Cooper, Seiford & Tone, 2007). Es así como se desarrolló un modelo de eficiencia en el que se estableció como output la esperanza de vida al nacer y como bad output la población en condiciones de desnutrición. Producto de la revisión de la literatura y de pruebas factoriales se establecieron como inputs del modelo la cantidad de médicos

disponibles y el gasto público en salud. El modelo DEA se orientó al output y se consideraron rendimientos variables a escala. Con la finalidad de identificar la evolución de la productividad y la eficiencia en el período estudiado, considerando la presencia de bad outputs, se calculó el índice Malmquist-Luenberger.

El documento se encuentra estructurado en cuatro apartados. En el primero, se abordan las principales características del desarrollo humano y la salud en América Latina y el Caribe; en el segundo, se presentan los argumentos teóricos del bienestar y la salud; en el tercero, se desarrollan los elementos teórico-metodológicos del Análisis Envolvente de Datos; en el cuarto, se presentan los resultados obtenidos del modelo de eficiencia; finalmente, se exponen las principales conclusiones del trabajo.
Performance of Two Aman Rice Varieties Using Varying Plant Density in the Northeastern Region Of Bangladesh
Authors: Ahmed F , Islam MN , Bhuyan MHMB
Published: February 2022

The experiment was conducted to assess the performance of two popular rice varieties with varying spacing at a farmer's field in Darbost union of Jaintapur Upazila under the Sylhet district of Bangladesh during aman season 2016. Two aman rice varieties (BRRI dhan34 and Binadhan-17), and four levels of plant density (15×10 cm, 20×10 cm, 20×15 cm, and 25×15 cm) were tested in a factorial randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The results indicated that yield and yield attributes of rice differed significantly due to varieties, spacing, and their interaction. It was recorded that var. Binadhan-17 showed maximum flag leaf length (34.33 cm), maximum number of filled grains m−2 (27855), maximum grain weight m−2 (654.58) contributed to increase grain yield (6.55 t ha−1) in closer spacing (20×10 cm), which ultimately increased grain yield. Therefore, the results of the present study suggested that rice var. Binadhan-17 could be transplanted at 20×10 cm spacing for getting maximum yield (6.55 t ha−1) in northeastern region of Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Agron. J. 2021, 24(2): 1-12
Light Interception and Productivity of Maize Intercropped With Legumes in Kharif Season
Authors: Naher Q , Hossain MA
Published: February 2022

The experiment was carried out at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research institute, Joydebpur, Gazipur during 2012 to evaluate the intercepted PAR in maize intercropped withlegumein comparison to monoculture for better weed suppression, productivity and economic benefits in kharif season. There were 17 treatments in the experiment viz., T1= Sole maize (no weeding), T2= Maize + Mungbean (no weeding), T3= Maize + Mungbean (weeding at 20 DAE), T4= Maize + Mungbean (weeding at 40 DAE), T5= Maize + Mungbean (weeding at 20 and 40 DAE), T6= Maize + Soybean (no weeding), T7= Maize + Soybean (weeding at 20 DAE), T8= Maize + Soybean (weeding at 40 DAE), T9= Maize + Soybean (weeding at 20 and 40 DAE), T10= Maize + Blackgram (no weeding), T11= Maize + Blackgram( weeding at 20 DAE), T12= Maize + Blackgram( weeding at 40 DAE), T13= Maize + Blackgram (weeding at 20 and 40 DAE) T14 =Sole maize (weed free), T15= Sole Mungbean (weed free), T16=Sole Soybean (weed free) and T17= Sole Blackgram (weed free).The results showed that PAR was significantly affected by cropping system, where it was higher in intercropping systems compared to sole crop . Regarding weed control, intercrops were more effective than sole crops and it was related to lower availability of PAR for weeds in intercropping systems. The highest grain yield (8.05 t ha-1). was obtained from weed free sole maize Among all intercropping, maize + mungbean along with two hand weeding gave the highest yield (maize: 7.18 t ha-1; 572.6 kg ha-1 mungbean), maize equivalent yield (MEY) = 12.49t ha-1and BCR = 2.84). From the study it can be concluded that maize mungbean intercropping with two hand weedings at 20 and 40 DAE would be the best in reducing weed growth, producing maximum yield and net return in intercropping systems under kharif season.

Bangladesh Agron. J. 2021, 24(2): 137-149
Pengaruh Sistem Pengendalian Intern dan Komitmen Organisasi terhadap Kualitas Laporan Keuangan Pemerintah Daerah dengan Kompetensi Sumber Daya Manusia sebagai Variabel Moderating
Authors: Aziyah Widatul , Yanto Heri
Published: February 2022

This study aims to examine the effect of the internal control system and organizational commitment on the quality of local government financial reports. The population and sample in this study used are State Civil Apparatus who work in the finance department in the OPD of Batang Regency, amounting to 88 people. Sampling was used using the purposive sampling technique. The data used is primary data in the form of a questionnaire. The data analysis used is descriptive, classical assumption test, absolute value difference test, coefficient of determination test, F test, and T-test with the help of IBM SPSS software version 25.0. This study results that there is a significant positive effect between the internal control system on the quality of local government financial reports. Organizational commitment does not effect the quality of local government financial reports. Meanwhile, the competence of human resources is not able to moderate the influence between the internal control system and organizational commitment on the quality of local government financial reports. It is recommended that further research be added to the research sample, namely the accounting department, and it is hoped that the next researcher can use moderating variables to retest the hypothesis that has no effect.
Komisaris Independen sebagai Pemoderasi Pengaruh Leverage, Tipe Auditor, dan Kapitalisasi Pasar terhadap Intellectual Capital Disclosure
Authors: Kusumah Muhammad Hadi , Agustina Linda
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study is to analyze the effect of leverage, the type of auditor, and market capitalization against Intellectual Capital Disclosure by moderated by independent commissioners. This study uses a quantitative method. The company included in the LQ45 index listed on the IDX in 2017-2019 a number of 102 was used as a population in this study. Purposive Sampling is a sampling technique and obtained 34 companies, so the research analysis unit was 102. The documentation method was used in this study as the data collection technique. Moderated regression analysis is used as a data analysis technique. Disclosure of Intellectual Capital Company LQ45 in 2017-2019 was obtained by an average of 60%. These results indicate the level of disclosure carried out by the LQ45 company in a high category. However, the government should make rules as a clear guideline regarding the disclosure of intellectual capital so that each company has clear guidelines to reveal the disclosure of intellectual capital and is encouraged to carry out wider disclosures.
Implementation and Use of Base64 Algorithm in Video File Security
Authors: Efendi Muhammad , Sihombing Volvo , Parulian Sahat
Published: February 2022

Personal data is often the target of irresponsible people to misuse. The theft is carried out to profit from the person who has the data. In addition to the theft of work files, theft is also carried out on video files. The theft of this file aims to find out what the contents of the video are. Someone has a private video recording that should not be known by others. Misuse of video files will be fatal for the owner of the video. Cryptographic techniques are needed in video security. Caesar Cipher algorithm can help users in securing the video file. The Base64 algorithm can be used to change the ASCII 256 format to Base64 so that it is easy to send or store in a storage media. This algorithm will make the file structure simpler so that it can be displayed and saved. By applying the Base64 algorithm and Caesar Cipher on video files, the security and confidentiality of the files will be guaranteed
The Implementation Of Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) And Blowfish Methods In Digital Video Security
Authors: Siregar Yunita Sari , Khairani Mufida , Harahap Herlina , Lubis Yessy Fitri Annisa
Published: February 2022

Collecting data partially or completely illegally without the permission of the owner causes losses to the copyright owner. This has a big impact in proving ownership of a digital media. To be able to prove ownership of the copyright, the Discrete Cosine Transform watermarking technique can be used by inserting the Blowfish cryptographic algorithm. Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) is a method that converts digital data into the form of a frequency domain. The method used in the DCT transformation technique is to break the digital image into small blocks with a fixed size and then convert it from the spatial domain to the frequency domain. Blowfish works by dividing the message into 64-bit blocks of equal length with varying aty lengths that encrypt the data in 8 byte blocks. Messages that are not multiples of 8 bytes will be added extra bits (padding), so that the size for each block is the same. After the final result is obtained, the value is inserted into the digital video without destroying the original digital video. From the research that has been done in the implementation of digital video watermarking, it can be concluded that the Blowfish cryptography method and the Discrete Cosine Transform (DCT) watermarking cryptography method can be applied properly. In the watermarking process, digital image insertion does not damage the watermaratd video and at the security level it is provided with blowfish cryptographic encryption, so that it can increase security in copyright protection
Major Cardiovascular Manifestations during COVID-19 Infection
Authors: Alruwaili Lubna , Alnemer Khalid , Alamro Faisal , Alshebebi Mohammed
Published: February 2022

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is a serious illness caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), that continues to grow globally. Incidence of cardiovascular complications has increased during the COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease 2019) pandemic, in regards of population- wide and in patients diagnosed with the disease. Various cardiovascular manifestations have been linked to the viral insult, including among others acute coronary syndromes, myocarditis, acute heart failure, cardiac injury, arrhythmias spontaneous coronary artery dissection, and stress induced cardiomyopathy. Although, the mechanism of heart injury in COVID-19 is not clear yet, several hypothesis and theories to various cardiac manifestation have been described. We performed a narrative review for the current published literature on the different cardiovascular manifestation related to COVID-19 infection.
Incidence, Risk Factors, and Patient Management of Incidental Coronary Artery Calcification on Non-ECG Gated Computed Chest Tomography: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vishwanath Rohanlal , Gorgis Sarah , Singh Varinder , Iordanou James , Papukhyan Hayk , Hana Aeman , Russell Cori , Ananthasubramaniam Karthikeyan
Published: February 2022

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is an independent predictor of cardiovascular events and can be reliably detected on non-Electrocardiogram (ECG) gated computed tomography (CT) scans. The increased use of CT has made CAC a common incidental finding, although the frequency remains variable in published literature. We aimed to identify the incidence of CAC found on routine non-ECG gated CT scans, risk factors associated with these findings, and management outcomes that resulted from discovery of CAC. A systematic review was conducted through literature search using predetermined search criteria. Applicable studies were screened by 3 investigators for eligibility. Data regarding indication for CT imaging, presence of CAC, cardiovascular risk factors, and management outcomes was collected. A total of 3585 study subjects were included for review. CAC was found in 31.2% (n = 1118) patients. Indications for CT imaging were 33.0% lung cancer screening, 16.0% for intrapulmonary pathology, and 50.0% for other reasons. In patients with CAC, the average age was 61.5 + 8.8 years old, 77.2% were male, 41.4% were smokers, 32.2% had hypertension, 31.5% had hyperlipidemia, and 11.2% had diabetes. Patients with CAC were older (p < 0.001), more likely to be smokers (p = 0.002), and more likely to have hyperlipidemia (p < 0.001). The presence of CAC in reports did not significantly alter management plans. In conclusion, traditional cardiovascular risk factors are associated with incidental CAC. Not reporting incidental CAC is a missed opportunity for identification of patient at increased risk of cardiovascular events in the community.
Venous Thrombosis of Lower Limbs at the National Reference Teaching Hospital of Ndjamena/Chad
Authors: Zakaria Abdel-madjidZakaria , Ali , Adam Ahamat , Mahamat Yayakichiné , mahamatAboubakar Abdelkerim , Soha Alsser Adam , Aristide Kaya , Ibrahim Toure Ali
Published: February 2022

Introduction: venous thrombosis is a public health problem in developing countries. Materials and Methods: This is a prospective study carried out in the cardiology department of the National Reference Teaching Hospital of N’Djamena. It spans a period of 02 years, from January 2019 to December 2020 with a 4-month follow-up for the last patients. Results: we counted a total of 49 cases of deep vein thrombosis out of 1983 patients hospitalized in the department, either a hospital prevalence of 2.47%. Our study population was dominated by the female sex (59.2%) with a sex ratio (M /W) of 0.69. The most representative age groups are those of 55-65 years old (37.0 %); 35-45 years old (26.5%) and 45-55 years old (16.0%) with an average age of 49.7 years ± 13.94 on extremes ranging from 25 to 86 years old.
Impact of COVID-19 Vaccination on Varicella Zoster Virus Reactivation: A Case Control Study
Authors: Alhasawi Almunther , Kamel Mohammad I , Elmasry Sameh , Kamel Walaa A. , Hassan Alshimaa
Published: February 2022

Background: Herpes zoster (HZ) is a medical condition of a significant global impact, with millions of people affected and rising incidence. Some risk factors of this disease had been reported in previous literatures worldwide; however, studies that pool evidence to provide estimates of newly emerged risk have yet to be conducted, especially in the context of the current pandemic. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to examine the association between COVID-19 vaccination and the risk of developing HZ in Kuwait. Methods: Clinically diagnosed 186 HZ patients were enrolled, along with 186 controls (1:1) with matched age (± 5years), sex and nationality. Data from cases and controls was collected using a predesigned interview questionnaire. The data was analyzed using logistic regression. Results: Most of cases and controls were non-Kuwaiti (61.8%) and male (69.4%). About one fifth (19.4%) of HZ cases developed HZ following vaccination against COVID-19 within the study period (two months). Cases were more likely than controls to have had COVID-19 vaccination history (adjusted matched odds ratio (OR) = 4.87; 95 percent confidence interval (CI): 2.40–9.89; P<0.001). Vaccinated HZ cases experienced significantly more lateralization to the left side (χ2 = 12.146, P = 0.000). Conclusions: Vaccination with COVID-19 had significant statistical association with varicella zoster activation. Future studies may contemplate to verify the observed results.
Mucormicosis, COVID-19 and Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Carvallo Hector , Hirsch Roberto , Corti Marcelo , Carrera Mabel
Published: February 2022

Mucormycosis is an opportunistic fungal infection that is associated with states of immunosuppression, among which uncontrolled diabetes mellitus (ketoacidosis) and the use of corticosteroids stand out. Both conditions are interwoven between the comorbidities and the treatments most used in patients with COVID-19. That is why its presence must be taken into account as a complication to be ruled out, and highlights the need to incorporate the Diabetologist into the Multidisciplinary Team for COVID management.
HIV Infection in Patients Aged Over 50 in the Infectious Diseases Unit at Brazzaville University Hospital: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: BR Ossibi Ibara , Gickelle Bintséné Mpika , PE Bendett Lebaho , T Adoua Doukaga , M Ekat , YFG Voubo Mavoungou , Fred Kinga , C Itoua
Published: February 2022

Objective: The prevalence of HIV infection in people aged is of significant importance. We determined the prevalence of HIV infection with patients aged over 50 at the Brazzaville University Hospital and look for its associated factors. Patients and Method: Cases of HIV infection in patients over 50 years admitted to the Infectious Diseases Unit of Brazzaville University Hospital were examined under cross-sectional descriptive and analytical study. This survey concerns the period going from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2021. Results: There were one hundred and ninety-four patients (8.2% of admissions). Their mean age was 57.40 ± 6.4 years [50-93], they were mostly female (n = 113; 58.2%). The most dominant population was the age group between 50-59 years (n = 136; 70.1%). They were single people (n = 80; 41.2%), without profession (n = 87; 44.8%), with a primary education level (n = 81; 41.8%), hypertensive (n = 27; 13.9%), diabetics (n = 15; 7.7%). HIV infection was discovered during hospitalization (n = 111; 57.2%), for deterioration of the general condition (n = 72; 37.1%), long-term fever (n = 56; 28.9%), chronic cough (n = 40; 20.6%). The patients were at WHO stage 3 (n = 133; 68.6%). The mean CD4 were 188.5 ± 11.7 / mm3 [19-433]. In 172 cases (88.7%), the patients had two sexual partners and did not use a condom (n = 189; 97.4%). The main opportunistic infections were tuberculosis (n = 74; 18.1%) and cerebral toxoplasmosis (n = 48; 24.7%). ART was made with the combination of TDF + FTC + EFV (n = 79; 40.7%). The observation was poor in 33% (n = 64) and unfavourable outcome in 47.4% (n = 92). These were IRIS (n = 5; 2.6%) and death (n = 85; 43.8%), due to anaemic shock (n = 17; 20%), septic shock (n = 8; 9.4%). Marital status (P = 0.04), WHO stage (p = 0.02), and non-compliance treatment (p = 0.0001) could have the link with the death patients. Conclusion: HIV infection in people over 50 years is relatively common at Brazzaville University Hospital, especially among single women. The lethality remains high, unrelated to an opportunistic infection but rather with the notion of non-compliance with treatment and the advanced stage of HIV infection according to the WHO classification. This shows the interest in raising awareness among this population for early detection and the treatment of HIV.
Effects of Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate-Palmitate (EC16) on In Vitro Norovirus Infection
Authors: Zhong Jiarong , Dickinson Douglas , Hsu Stephen
Published: February 2022

Background: Norovirus is the world-leading cause of acute gastroenteritis associated with severe symptoms and deaths. However, vaccines against norovirus are currently not available, and medications that specifically target human norovirus infection are still under development. The current study evaluated the virucidal and antiviral activities of epigallocatechin-3-gallate-palmitate (EC16), a compound derived from green tea polyphenols, against murine norovirus (MNV S99, a surrogate for human norovirus). Method: Initially, formulation suitability tests were conducted to compare EGCG (epigallocatechin-3-gallate), EC16 and tea polyphenol-palmitate in alcohol solution and hand hygiene formulations. The virucidal activity of EC16 was then tested in hand sanitizer gel and hand sanitizer foam formulations using a TCID50 time-kill suspension assay. In vitro treatment and prevention tests were performed using a 1-hour incubation of EC16 or EGCG with RAW264.7 cells, either pre-infection or post-infection with MNV. Statistical analysis employed the two-tailed student t test (alpha=0.05). Results: Unlike EC16, both EGCG and tea polyphenol-palmitate showed auto-oxidation (color change) and precipitation in alcohol solution and hand hygiene formulations, and were thus less suitable for potential hand hygiene product or new drug development. The time-kill suspension test results demonstrated that EC16 in both sanitizer gel and foam formulations reduced MNV by >99.99% (>log10 4) after 60 sec direct contact. One-hour incubation of EC16 with RAW264.7 cells either before or after MNV infection (i.e., without direct contact with MNV), resulted in >99% (>log10 2) reduction of MNV infectivity. Conclusion: EC16 is a candidate for use as a virucidal and antiviral compound to prevent and treat norovirus infection, with potential to be developed as a new drug against norovirus, pending in vivo and clinical tests.
Why So Many Negative Coproculture? About 2329 Corocultures Carried Out at the Charles De Gaulle Pediatric Hospital Center in Hospitalized Children Aged 0 To 5 Years Old
Authors: Sanou Mahamoudou , Ky Absatou Ba , Ouedraogo Cyrile , Ouedraogo Abdoul Salam , Tamboura Mamadou , Kambiré Dinanibe , Yonli Albert T , Nagalo Bolni Marius , Traore Ouedraougo Rasmata
Published: February 2022

Introduction: Clinical syndromes of digestive expression or various origins, infectious diarrhea is a major public health problem in children in tropical countries. Methodology: This was a descriptive retrospective study aimed at analyzing the epidemiological and microbiological aspects of the stool cultures carried out in children aged 0-5 years hospitalized at CHUP-CDG from January 2010 to December 2015. Results: Out of 2329 stool cultures performed, we found a positivity rate of 4.12% with a predominance of requests in the infant service. With regard to the bacteria isolated, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli came first with 19 cases, then Salmonella spp with 10 cases and Shigella spp with 2 cases. Candida albicans were isolated in 30 cases and Candida spp in 33 cases. The frequency of parasites was 7.17% and that of Rotavirus / Adenovirus 44.12% (out of 68 virus search requests). 452 patients were on probabilistic antibiotic therapy out of 465 patients (97.20%) with a predominance of the combination ceftriaxone + gentamycin (87.6%). Also there were no suitable isolation media for germs such as as Yersinia, Campylobacter, and Clostridium. Conclusion: In view of all the above, there is a need to review the indications and the practical conditions for carrying out this technique in tropical environments with limited resources.
Oral Health Surveillance in Childhood by Family Pediatricians in the Province of Trento - North Italy. Limits and Perspectives
Authors: Silvano Piffer , Mariangela Pedron , Rizzello Roberto , Marta Betta
Published: February 2022

Introduction: The prevalence of dental caries in childhood has seen a significant decrease in the last few decades. The monitoring systems allow us to know the progress of the disease over time and the other aspects that require improvement. The study reports the temporal trend of the oral health state in children residing in the province of Trento (north east Italy) and evaluated at the age of 6 years. The study also analyzes, on the birth cohort of 2011 and assessed in 2017, by family pediatricians, the association of dental caries on deciduous teeth with socio-demographic factors. Materials and Methods: The source of the data is represented by the forms filled by the family pediatricians on the occasion of the 6-year health assessment. Since the birth cohort of 2008, family pediatricians have been involved in the surveillance of oral health in childhood. On this basis, the trend of the prevalence of free caries and the trend of oral hygiene procedures followed by children over time have been calculated. The factors associated with the risk of decay of deciduous teeth have been analyzed with a multiple analysis according to the logistic model. Mother-related variables were retrieved using the Birth Assistance Certificate archive. Results: There is a progressive increase in the proportion of caries-free children which is statistically significant. The prevalence at 2017 is 77%, higher in Italian than in foreign children. The proportion of children with optimal oral hygiene practice increased statistically significantly. The proportion of children who underwent fluoride prophylaxis within the age of 6 has been statistically significantly reduced. The proportion of children with at least one access to the dentist within the age of 6 recorded an increase in an initial period. The accesses for sealing the first molars have also increased over time with a statistically significant trend. Differences remain between Italians and foreigners. The presence of a mother of foreign nationality, a mother aged 24 or younger and a sub-optimal practice of oral hygiene are independent risk factors for the onset of decay of deciduous teeth at the age of 6. Discussion: Family pediatricians can contribute to oral health surveillance in childhood. Family pediatricians can also play an important role, considering that he comes into contact with the child and his family from birth to puberty. It is necessary however integrate this professional into the network of local health services. A revisit of the provincial program for the oral health promotion in childhood would seem necessary, improving the relations with schools and the interventions to the most vulnerable groups such as foreigners Women of childbearing age and during pregnancy should also receive special care, considering that the mother’s lifestyle can have significant impact on the health and behavior of the child.
Using Photovoice as A Student-Centred Teaching Method among Graduate Nursing Students: A Mixed Method Study
Authors: E John Mildred , Akpan Samson , E Patience
Published: February 2022

Photovoice is used commonly for community action research. Evidence shows that when used appropriately in the classroom, it can effectively engage students and enhance learning. Use in the nursing classroom is however limited. The aim of the study was to assess perception and experiences of postgraduate students, as well as the effectiveness of photovoice teaching strategy on acquisition of skills in critical thinking, communication, self directed learning, and problem-based learning. This mixed method study used photovoice pedagogy to teach the course “Health Systems Management” to twenty postgraduate students of Nursing Science at a University in Nigeria. Ethical clearance was obtained from the University Research Ethics Committee. Evaluation of students’ understanding of the teaching method and learning content involved obtaining photographs supporting both the positive and negative aspects of assigned topics, and presenting them as photovoice seminar. Data collection was through a validated 40-items questionnaire (for quantitative data) and Focus Group Discussion and in-depth interview (for exploratory data). Descriptive and inferential data analysis was on SPSS 18.0, while qualitative data were thematically analysed on NVivo 7.0. Results showed that photovoice methodology helped students develop critical thinking skills (p = 0.01), promoted self-directed learning (p = 0.001), strengthened communication skills (p = 0.01) and ensured problem-based learning (p = 0.02). Participants reported benefits of the method as empowerment of students for more effective involvement/participation in the teaching-learning process (100%), creation of powerful visual facts of topics (95.0%), effective engagement of students (90.0%), and enhanced appreciation of different points of view (85.0%). Qualitative data analysis yielded three themes “Transformation of the teaching-learning process”, “Critical group dialogue”, and “Engagement of students”. In conclusion, photovoice enhanced critical reflection, critical thinking, social communication, and self-directed learning skills and increased engagement of students. It can serve as an effective instructional method in nursing education.
Transforming Nursing Care at Patients' Bedside in Low Resource Settings: A Study of Four Hospitals in Southern Nigeria
Authors: John Mildred E. , Samson-Akpan Patience E. , Nsemo Alberta D.
Published: February 2022

As the largest group of health care professionals, nurses are in a nodal position to ensure achievement of healthcare goals. Transforming Care at the Bedside (TCAB) is a global initiative whereby nurses implement innovative practices for patient satisfaction. However, the initiative has not been the focus of studies in Nigeria. This study examined TCAB practices among nurses in four hospitals in Southern Nigeria; and determined the effectiveness of capacity building on selected TCAB activities and outcomes. Triangulation (observation, descriptive and quasi-experimental) design was used to collect data from 224 randomly selected nurses working in medical and surgical units of four hospitals in two States of Southern Nigeria. Validated Observation checklist and two validated researcher-developed Questionnaires were utilized to collect data. The Intervention involved capacity building on 21 TCAB activities in four core areas: safe and reliable care; vitality and teamwork; patient-centred care; value-added care processes. The study followed ethical processes. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics on SPSS 20. After capacity building, nurses' practice of most TCAB activities improved significantly (p≤0.05), except for work redesign, and improving the work environment. Nurses also spent significantly more time on value-added activities and less time on non-value-added activities after the intervention. Practice of TCAB activities was significantly associated with patient and family satisfaction, nurses' satisfaction, patients' wellbeing, nurse: patient interactions and quality of care (p <0.001). Nurses in the four hospitals implemented many TCAB activities, and this significantly increased nurse: patient interactions, patient wellbeing and satisfaction in the hospitals studied. The TCAB initiative is therefore feasible and relevant in low resource settings like Nigeria.
Neurogenic Bowel Rehabilitation in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Fizzotti Gabriella , Fassina Giovani , Tronconi Livio
Published: February 2022

Background: Neurogenic bowel is a dysfunction resulting from a lack of central nervous control. It is a condition commonly observed in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). Material and Method: we considered 15 SCI patients enrolled to anal irrigator training. At the onset and at the end of the rehabilitative program patients completed a specific questionnaire. The answers concerning the influence of adeguate management of neurological bowel on personal autonomy and quality of life. Nurse-care was foundamental for anal irrigator training. Results: Faecal incontinence, constipation, abdominal pain improved with the constant use of anal irrigator. Conclusion: anal irrigator is one promising techniques that contributes to improving the autonomy and quality of life of the SCI persons.