bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preserving the Healthcare Data by Using PPDM Technique
Authors: Devi K. Renuka
Published: November 2022

The recent advancement in technology catalyse the processing of vast amount of data. It leads to the purpose of extracting and storing those data in an electronic form. Data mining contributes a significant part in fulfilling this process. In the realm of data mining, privacy and security are two important problems. To resolve the above problems, the need of privacy preserving in data mining (PPDM) has been arisen. Under healthcare domain, the data mining will process the sensitive information which includes name, age, health records etc., Hence, PPDM plays a key role in securing that sensitive information and protecting those data from the intruders. Individual data is not only protected by PPDM, but it is also protected from leakage. In this paper, the PPDM technique such as anonymization technique and cryptographic technique has been analysed deeply with the view of its execution time. It is also focused that based on comparison, which method would be more efficient for protecting data from unauthorized access in the healthcare domain.
Detailed Ampric Research on Employee Satisfaction in Hospital Management in Turkey and Around the World
Authors: Sipahi Dongul Esra , Bozbesparmak Irem
Published: November 2022

Today, the perspective on quality focuses on satisfaction. Improving quality has become an important task for hospitals. The purpose of the existence of enterprises: to satisfy the customer, to keep the customer, and to ensure customer loyalty. The concept of customers in the health sector covers not only patients, but also all individuals and institutions/organizations participating in the health care process in a broader dimension. In the face of changes in the healthcare industry, increased competition and consumer pressure, healthcare organizations are looking for ways to deliver more cost-effective and higher quality services. Measuring the quality of health services is the basis for improving the service. In this section, solutions are presented by focusing on the studies on employee satisfaction in hospital management in Turkey and around the world in the context of quality management in health services.
Characteristics of inpatients with atopic asthma in a tertiary center: Do age and gender have an influence?
Authors: Al-Iede Montaha , Aleidi Shereen M. , Al Oweidat Khaled , Dannoun Marah , Alsmady Danah , Faris Hadeel , Issa Haneen , Abughoush Lima , Almoslawi Ola , Al-Zayadney Enas , Alqutawneh Basim , Daher Amirah
Published: November 2022

Background: Several studies have demonstrated gender influence on asthma prevalence, being higher among males during early childhood. Little is known about the impact of gender and age on asthma exacerbation characteristics in pediatrics. This study aimed to determine the differences in acute asthma between males and females in three different age groups regarding perinatal characteristics of asthmatic patients, comorbidities, medication adherence, level of blood eosinophils, and pattern of hospitalization.Methods: The medical records of 130 pediatric patients with asthma, who presented to the emergency department at Jordan University hospital with asthma exacerbations, were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic information and clinical characteristics were collected.Results: The mean age of patients was 10.7±4.7 years. The age at diagnosis and gestational age were significantly higher in older children. Furthermore, younger children were significantly more likely to experience winter exacerbations and more emergency presentations. Male patients were considerably younger than their female counterparts and were diagnosed younger. In addition, male patients were more likely to have eosinophil levels higher than 3% than female patients.Conclusion: Gender plays a role in the development and outcome of asthma exacerbations at different ages of pediatrics. A better understanding of gender-based and age-based differences in asthma dictates a personalized approach to treatment.
Chylous Ascites in a Case of Henoch-Schonlein Purpura - A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Galam Pushkar , Mundakal Joseph Kurian
Published: November 2022

Chylous ascites is a rare form of ascites characterized by the accumulation of lymph fluid in the peritoneal cavity. Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HSP) is a form of vasculitis usually seen in children affecting small vessels. Gastrointestinal (GI) manifestations of HSP are coming to the forefront as a presenting symptom. The presence of a rash usually succeeds the GI manifestations, making diagnosis difficult and leading to unnecessary surgical interventions. Our case shows a 38-year-old female who presented with an acute abdomen followed by an erythematous rash noticed later on, with radiological investigations suggestive of acute appendicitis. Chylous ascites was found as an incidental finding on diagnostic laparoscopy with a healthy appendix.
Perception of Interns Regarding Influence of Dressing on Professional Performance at Workplace in Dentistry
Authors: Bhoyar Anjali Giridhar , Kambala Seema , Nimonkar Sharayu Vinod , Dhamande Mithilesh Murlidhar
Published: November 2022

Background:

In a health-care setup, interpersonal communication plays a pivotal role in the attainment of professional outcomes. Dressing is an indirect mode of communication. Since ancient times, it is assumed that doctor's clothing have a positive effect on the minds of patients. This survey evaluates the perception of interns from dental sciences regarding the impact of dressing on professional performance at workplace.

Materials and Methods:

A self-designed questionnaire was distributed among a batch of interns who were willing to participate in the survey. Seventy-six interns returned the responses which were complete without any duplication. All the survey forms were scrutinized and the data were collated. Qualitative analysis of the assembled data was performed to evaluate intern's perception about the association between dressing and professional performance at workplace.

Results:

Results of the survey demonstrated that 81.6% of the participants dress up to work as per their temperament. About 65.8% of the participants believed that dental professionals should choose formal wear for workplace settings. Majority of the participants, i.e., 67.1%, believed that dressing affects perception on personality traits such as dignity and character of a professional. A wide number of interns perceived that dressing alters the behavior of self, patients, and colleagues (55.3%, 71.1%, and 68.4%, respectively). The result of this survey also showed a positive correlation between dressing and professional traits such as confidence, responsibility, and efficiency (75.0%, 63.2%, and 63.2%, respectively). Notably, 55.3% opined against enforcing a dress code for dental institutions/dental offices.

Conclusion:

The result of the study represents the positive influence of dressing on professional performance at workplace in dentistry as perceived by interns from the faculty of dental sciences.
Oral Health Status among Type 2 Diabetic versus Nondiabetic Adult Population of Muradnagar
Authors: Das Dipshikha , Gupta Ritu , Menon Ipseeta , Sharma Anubhav , Arora Vikram , Ahsan Iram
Published: November 2022

Background:

Diabetes mellitus is a rising public health concern in India. It has become one of the most prevalent diseases in the world.

Aim:

This study aimed to assess and correlate oral health status, socioeconomic status (SES), and oral hygiene practices among Type 2 Diabetic and nondiabetic adult population of Muradnagar.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Community Health Center of Muradnagar among 250 (Type 2 diabetic) and 250 (nondiabetic) adult study subjects from October 2019 to March 2020. A interview-based questionnaire assessed demographic details, body mass index, and SES of study subjects. The family history, type, and duration of diabetes as well as knowledge on diabetes, its systemic and oral manifestations, and medications were assessed among diabetic study subjects. WHO Oral Health Assessment Questionnaire 2013 was used. Oral Hygiene Index-Simplified and Community Periodontal Index using WHO Oral Health 2013 Criteria were also used.

Results:

The mean age of diabetic study subjects was found to be 45.81 ± 5.05 years, whereas of nondiabetic study subjects, it was 40.85 ± 7.7 years. The mean decayed, missing, and filled teeth is statistically higher among diabetics (10.23 ± 4.73) than nondiabetics (5.34 ± 3.316). Periodontal pocket was present among 67.2% of diabetic study subjects with a mean number of teeth affected, with a pocket depth of about 4–5 mm in 4.68 ± 2.94 and 6 mm or more in 3.76 ± 2.83 which was comparatively higher than the nondiabetic study subjects. The prevalence of attachment loss among diabetic study subjects was noted as 28.4%, whereas among nondiabetic study subjects, it was 18%.

Conclusion:

The study concluded a strong association between diabetes and poor periodontal conditions and leaves an impact on overall oral health status of diabetic study subjects compared to the nondiabetics.
Progression of anaemia during antenatal period among South African pregnant women
Authors: M Hoque A , E Hoque M , Van Hal Guido
Published: November 2022

Background: Anaemia in pregnancy is a known public health problem in South Africa. Maternal, perinatal morbidity and mortality are known to be associated with anaemia in pregnancy. Very little is known from literature with regards to the progression of anaemia during the antenatal period of pregnancy.

Objectives: To estimate haemoglobin levels, the prevalence and determinants of anaemia at different gestational ages and to show the trend.

Method: A retrospective cohort (follow-up) study was conducted using the antenatal clinic register. Prevalence rates of anaemia (haemoglobin < 11 g/dl) at different gestational ages were measured. Factors associated with anaemia were assessed using chisquare test and stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: A total of 801 pregnant women were enrolled at the booking visit and followed-up during their antenatal period. The prevalence of anaemia at the booking visit was 37%. The prevalence of anaemia at 20, 26, 32 and 36 weeks of gestation were 36.6%, 39.6%, 39.8% and 29.2% respectively. Binary logistic regression at the booking visit showed that teenage women were 2.5 times more likely to have anaemia (OR=2.5, p=0.005) than older women. Women who booked during the first trimester were 60% less likely to have anaemia (OR= 0.40, P=0.005) at the booking visit and 62% less likely to be anaemic at 36 weeks of gestation (OR=0.38, p=0.013) compared to those who booked late for antenatal care.

Conclusion: Prevalence of anaemia during pregnancy was high. Early booking for antenatal care was a predictor for lower rate of anaemia. Thus, health education strategy should be encouraged for early antenatal booking.

Keywords: Antenatal care; Haemoglobin; Kwadabeka; Management of anaemia; Prevalence.
Effect of heavy cigarette and water pipe smoking on antioxidants and lipids in Sudanese male smokers: a case-control study
Authors: M Ahmed Ahmed , M Ibrahim Amna
Published: November 2022

Background: Tobacco smoking is a source of many toxins such as free radicals, mutagenic substances as well as cause for developing cardiovascular diseases (CVD), particularly atherosclerosis. This study aims to assess the impact of smoking on antioxidants in Sudanese male smokers.

Methods: Cases were 85 and 48 men who smoke cigarettes (CS) and water pipe (WPS) respectively and they were compared with matching 50 non-smoking controls. Blood samples were collected and following parameters: Glutathione peroxidase, Superoxidedismutase, Total cholesterol, Triglyceride, LDL, HDL, Paraoxinase, and Malondialdehyde were measured.

Results: There were no significant differences in biochemical parameters between light CS and WPS compared to controls. In heavy smokers of both WPS and CS, the TC, TG, LDL, and MDA were higher than controls (p>0.05), GPx, SOD, HDL, and PON were lower in smokers than controls (p>0.05). In both groups of smokers; HDL, GPx, SOD, and PON were inversely correlated with duration of smoking (p>0.05), also, HDL was positively correlated with SOD and GPx (p>0.05). Moreover, GPx and SOD were correlated with each other in both groups of smokers (p>0.05).

Conclusion: In Sudanese male smokers’ biochemical profile disturbances suggest that heavy smoking was leading to developing CVD, particularly WPS.

Keywords: Smoking; antioxidants; cigarette smoking; CS; water pipe smoking; WPS.
Cytogenetic profile of adult AML patients in Turkey: a single center study with comprehensive comparison with literature
Authors: Cirakoglu Ayse , Dilhan Kuru Rahiye , Yilmaz Sukriye , Deviren Ayhan , Ongoren Seniz , Firat Yalniz Fevzi , Keskin Dilek , Emre Eskazan Ahmet , Salihoglu Ayse , Cem Ar Muhlis , Sahin Serdar , Aydin Yildiz , Hacihanefioglu Seniha , Baslar Zafer , Soysal Teoman , Tarkan Arguden Yelda
Published: November 2022

Background: Cytogenetic findings are important prognostic factors in acute myeloid leukemia. Large systematic data about chromosomal characteristics of Turkish AML patients have not been reported to date.

Objectives: The karyotypic profiles of 157 adult AML patients were evaluated retrospectively and compared with other reports from different populations.

Methods: Cytogenetics analyses were performed on bone marrow samples using G-banding. Patients were categorized according to their cytogenetic results into four groups with the addition of a normal karyotyped group to the favorable, intermediate and adverse groups of European Leukemia Network.

Results: Cytogenetic analyses were carried out successfully in 138 patients (88%). Abnormal karyotypes were found in 79 (57.2%) patients of which 13 (9.4%) were in favorable, 37 (26.8%) in intermediate and 29 (21%) in adverse groups. t(8;21) (5%) was the most common favorable abnormality while monosomal karyotypes (15.9%) in adverse group.

Conclusion: This single center study is the most comprehensive study about the cytogenetic profile of acute myeloid leukemia in Turkey with comparison of other population-based studies. While there were similarities and differences with different publications, our results did not show a marked tendency to the findings of any specific geographic region.

Keywords: Acute myeloid leukemia; cytogenetics; chromosomal abnormalities; adult.
Indirect serum biomarkers perform sub optimally in screening for significant liver fibrosis among HIV-infected and uninfected adults in Uganda
Authors: Wekesa Clara , Parkes-Ratanshi Rosalind , D Kirk Gregory , Aizire Jim , Ocama Ponsiano
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Indirect serum bio-markers present an acceptable noninvasive and cheap alternative for screening of significant liver fibrosis (SLF). Evaluation of their use in resource limited settings is important to determine their utility.

Methods: We conducted a cross sectional study among 520 HIV infected and HIV uninfected adults attending care clinics in Kampala Uganda. Presence of SLF was determined using Fibroscan® liver stiffness measurement of ≥7.2KPa. The diagostic value of indirect serum bio-markers for diagnosis of SLF was evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) using Fibroscan® as gold standard.

Results: Overall AUROC values for Age Platelet Index (API), Aspartate to Alanine Ratio (AAR), AST-to-Platelet Ratio Index (APRI), Fibrosis Index based on 4 Factors (FIB-4) and Gamma glutamyl transferase to Platelet Ratio Index (GPR) were 0.52, 0.49, 0.55, 0.55 and 0.54 respectively. Among HIV-infected participants AUROC values were slightly improved at predicting presence of SLF but still under 70%.

Conclusion: Despite APRI and FIB-4 being more likely to identify participants with SLF, the overall diagnostic value of all serum bio-markers was poor with and without stratification by HIV status. We recommend the use of Fibroscan® technology as more accurate non-invasive diagnostic method for screening of SLF.

Keywords: Liver fibrosis; serum bio-markers; Fibroscan®; HIV/AIDS; Sub Saharan Africa.
Fertility desire and associated factors among people on antiretroviral treatment at a public health facility in Hawassa city, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Argaw Eniyew Muche , Haji Yusuf , Abebe Kelemu , Demelash Minchil , Mesfin Yibeltal , Embiale Aynamaw , Amare Belay
Published: November 2022

Background: Fertility desire is the plan of people to have a child or more children in the face of being diagnosed with HIV and plan to a commitment to implement the desire.

Methods: An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Hawassa city public health facilities from May 09 –July 07/07/2019. Four hundred (400) study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected by using interviewer-administered pre-tested structured questionnaires and chart review. The collected data were entered into EPI data version 3.1 software and then transported to SPSS version 20 for cleaning and data analysis. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify associated factors at p<0.05 was taken as a significant value with a 95% confidence level.

Results: A total of 400 clients were included in the study giving a response rate of 97 %. The overall fertility desire was 53.6 %(95%CI: 48.7%, 58.2%). Age, sexual practice in the last six months and discussing reproductive health with ART providers were significantly associated with fertility desire. Younger age was positively associated with fertility desire, age group (18-29), [Adjust odds ratio = 5.75 95%CI (2.85, 11.57)] , age group(30-39), [Adjust odds ratio= 4.71 95%CI:(2.55, 8.71)] Sexual practice in the last sixmonths [Adjust odds ratio = 3.00 95%CI(1.46 , 6.16)] and counseling reproductive health with ART provider[Adjust odds ratio = 3.10 95%CI:(1.86,5.15)]

Conclusion: The prevalence of fertility desire in this study was higher than previous studies while factors associated with fertility desire were age, sexual practice in the last six months, and discussing reproductive health with ART providers.

Keywords: ART; Fertility desire; HIV/AIDS.
Factors influencing utilization of modern family planning services by persons living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus at Luwero Hospital, Uganda
Authors: Omona Kizito , Muhanuzi Geoffrey
Published: November 2022

Introduction: The use of modern family planning methods is key for achieving the prevention of unintended pregnancies among women living with HIV, in the prevention of Mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) package. The purpose of this study was to examine the factors influencing the utilization of modern family planning services by persons living with HIV at Luwero Hospital, Uganda.

Methods: The study was conducted among 210 persons living with HIV attending the ART clinic and was based on cross-sectional descriptive and analytical design. Sampling was by simple random techniques. Data was collected using researcher-administered questionnaires.

Results: The uptake of Modern FP services is low (36.7%) among persons living with HIV. It was attributed to client-related factors such as being married [AOR: 2.2, 95% CI [1.123-4.140], p = 0.038]) and other factors. These are; religious views discouraging use of modern FP (p= 0.034), negative side effects (AOR: 1.8, 95% CI [0.043-1.968], p = 0.044) and services being unfriendly for persons living with HIV (p=0.000]).

Conclusions: Despite the presence of modern family planning services, uptake among persons living with HIV is low. Poor utilization is a recipe for unintended pregnancy and thus jeopardizes efforts in the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV.

Keywords: Mother-to-Child Transmission (MTCT); HIV; Family Planning; Unintended Pregnancy; Luwero district.
Haematological profile abnormalities; and its relationship with severity and outcome of COVID-19 infection
Authors: Ahmed Chaudhary Noman , Khurram Muhammad , Yasmin Tahira , Sadiq Abdullah , Malik Javaria , Aziz Qaiser , Nazar Muddesir , Shahzad Manzoor Muhammad , Mujeeb Khan Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Background: Corona virus disease (Covid-19) caused by corona virus (SARS Cov-2) has affected millions of people around the world. Many diagnostic modalities have been tested but the blood complete picture remains the initial and most easily accessible investigation in Covid-19.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to find out the haematological abnormalities in relation to Covid-19 severity and outcome.

Methods: This cross-sectional study was carried out from April 2020 to July 2020. One--hundred and fifty polymerase chain reaction (PCR) confirmed Covid-19 patients were inducted by random sampling. Haematological profile at admission was recorded. Data thus obtained was analyzed with respect to Covid-19 severity and outcome. The data was entered and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 19.

Results: Out of a total of 150 patients included in the study, 77(51.3%) patients had mild disease at the time of admission, 42 (28%) had moderate disease while 31 (20.7%) had critical disease at the time of admission. Medians (interquartile range) of total leucocyte count (TLC), neutrophils, lymphocytes, neutrophils to lymphocytes ratio (NLR), platelets to lymphocytes ratio (PLR), neutrophils to monocyte ratio (NMR), monocyte to lymphocyte ratio (MLR) were 8.11 (IQR=4.88), 5.95 (IQR=4.58), 1.66 (IQR=1.10), 3.48 (IQR=4.20), 146.24 (IQR=130.75), 18.87 (IQR=14.07), 0.16 (IQR=0.13). Median NLR was higher in patients with critical illness11.23 (IQR=10.70) as compared to those with stable 2.51 (IQR=1.77) and moderate 3.22 (IQR=3.60) disease (p< 0.000). Similarly TLC (p< 0.000), neutrophils (p< 0.000), lymphocytes (p< 0.000), NLR (p< 0.000), PLR (p< 0.000, p=0.001), MLR (p< 0.000), NMR (p< 0.000) had significant relationship with the severity and outcome of Covid-19 infection.

Conclusion: Many haematological parameters are significantly different and can be used to predict the severity and outcome of Covid-19 infection.

Keywords: COVID-19; hematology; corona virus; outcome.
A tropical tertiary neurosurgical centre response to COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on neurosurgical practices
Authors: Idowu Olufemi , Oshola Hammed , Idowu Jeuel , Omosuyi Ademola
Published: November 2022

Background: COVID-19 pandemic may decrease the quantum of care for patients with neurosurgical conditions.

Objectives: To determine outpatient clinic (OPC) patient load, neurosurgical procedures volume and disease spectrum following the institution of a new care protocol during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and compare with previous practice data in our institution.

Methods: A monocentric retrospective analysis of all patients requiring neurosurgical care over a 2-year period.

Results: There was a 42.4% reduction in OPC attendance and 41.8% reduction in surgical procedures in 2020 compared to 2019. There was >60 percent reduction in the volume of surgery that was done at the onset and peak of the pandemic but this has normalized in November 2020 despite the resurgence of COVID-19, after the institution of a new care protocol. Neurotrauma procedures (29.6%) were the most common neurosurgical operation in 2020 while congenital malformation surgery (37.3%) was the most common procedure performed in 2019.

Conclusions: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic initially led to significant decrease in quantum and spectra of patients who presented at the OPC and for neurosurgical procedures. Instituted local protocol and Teleclinics, if added to clinical care armamentarium, may help to improve on the low patient attendance during pandemics.

Keywords: COVID-19; Neurosurgery; Protocols; SARS-CoV-2.
Frequency of transfusion transmissible infections among blood donors of Rawalpindi District, Pakistan
Authors: Ghazanfar Saqlain , Hassan Sarmad , Shahid Zia , Sheharyar Khan Muhammad , Rehman Malik Abdur , Sattar Bhutta Hamza , Ikram Nadeem , Sarfraz Khan Muhammad
Published: November 2022

Background: Transmissible Infections (TTI’s) are a cause of significant burden on health care facilities by imposing a threat of infection transmission through disease reservoirs in asymptomatic donors. This eventually leads to a serious challenge in acquiring blood bags in a country like Pakistan where transfusion dependent disease are of high prevalence. The objective of this study is to determine the seroprevalence of TTI’s in blood donors in Rawalpindi District through a multi-center approach.

Materials and Methods: This is an observational descriptive retrospective study based on 6 transfusion centers in the Rawalpindi District. The time frame of the study was from January 2015 to December 2018. A total of 223,242 donors were consecutively included and data on donor type, the purpose of transfusion, and seroprevalence (HBV, HCV, HIV, Syphilis, and Malaria) were collected through a structured questionnaire and laboratory investigation results. The collected data were entered in SPSS version 21.0 for analysis.

Results: The seroprevalence of blood borne infections was 7,897 (3.537%) of which HBV, HCV, HIV, Syphilis and Malaria accounted for 2410 (1.080%), 3105(1.391%), 0(0.000%), 2017 (0.933%) and 365 (0.171%), respectively. Reactive samples reduced from 4.850% to 3.537% over 4 years, while there was a rise of 37.478% of blood donors from 2015 to 2018. The total number of voluntary donors and replacement donors was 22079 (9.890%) and 201156 (90.107%), with a rising incidence in voluntary donors from 2015 to 2018. A considerable number of donor bags were transfused to Thalassemia, Anemia, Leukemia and Hemophilia patients, 28156 (12.612%). This number also showed increasing rates from 11.654% to 14.017%.

Conclusion: In conclusion, our study suggests that the risk of transmission through transfusion is still considerable. Targeting donors with a low-risk profile, a screening questionnaire, an ample supply of quality screening tests, and awareness campaigns for the diseases in question must be carried to further decrease the risk of transmission of TTIs in Pakistan.

Keywords: Transfusion; Hepatitis; HIV; Syphilis; Malaria; Pakistan.
Compliance of patients to DOTS tuberculosis treatment strategy in a South-East Nigeria Teaching Hospital
Authors: A Idoko Chinedu , Adeyemi Olufemi
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Tuberculosis ranks the second highest cause of adult mortality after HIV in the world. The Directly Observed Treatment Short course (DOTS) strategy is aimed at following up on patients’ adherence to treatment regimen.

Objectives: To assess the level of compliance of patients to the DOTS strategy.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective study of patients seen at the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital from January, 2013 to April, 2015. Relevant information was collected from patients’ folders. Data analysis was with the SPSS and results represented in tables.

Results: 111 (50%) patients were compliant with their DOTS treatment plan while 107 (41.3%) were non-compliant. Ninety-two patients (41.4%) were successfully treated and discharged home, 7 patients (3.2%) referred to other centres. The proportion of patients regarding their marital status, occupation, educational level and address that was compliant to the DOTS TB reflected varied patterns.

Conclusion/ Recommendations: The study reflected poor to average compliance to DOTS. There is a need for creation of more DOTS centres; regular surveys and updates on DOTS TB strategy should be the norm rather than the exception.

Keywords: Compliance; Patients; DOTS; Tuberculosis; South-East Nigeria.
Prediction of promiscuous epitopes in ORF2 of Hepatitis E virus: an In-Silico approach
Authors: Samavia Noor , Fahed Parvaiz , Yasir Waheed , Tasneem Anwar , Syeda Nasreen
Published: November 2022

Background: Vaccine development against emerging infections is essentially important for saving people from increasing viral infections. In developing countries, Hepatitis E (HEV) is a common infection affecting millions of people worldwide. Based on In-silico analysis, different approaches have been targeted.

Objectives: Rationale of this study is to design an epitope-based vaccine candidates with the help of immunoinformatics that can predict promiscuous B-cell and T-cell epitopes of the most antigenic HEV-ORF2 capsid protein.

Materials & Methods: This study suggests potential T-cell and B-cell epitopes of the highly antigenic HEV ORF2 capsid protein while using various In-silico tools such as NCBI-BLAST, Expassy, CLC workbench, Ellipro and Discotope.

Results: Potential antigenic and immunogenic CD8+ T-cell epitopes were predicted from the global consensus sequence of ORF2-HEV. Furthermore, twenty-two linear B-cell epitopes were predicted. Among these, “SLGAGPV” at position 587-593 and “LEFRNLTPGNTNTRVSRYSS” at position 306-325 were most antigenic with antigenicity score 1.4206 and 1.3600 respectively. Discontinuous B-cell epitopes were found by three-dimensional capsid protein structure. Epitopes predicted in this study reveal high antigenicity and promiscuity for HLA classes.

Conclusion: Collectively, our data suggests promiscuous epitopes that can potentially acts as new candidates for the design of HEV peptide vaccine.

Keywords: Virology; gastrointestinal disease.
The profile and causes of death among medical doctors and dental surgeons in Uganda: 1986 to 2016
Authors: Amandua Jacinto , Masembe Victoria , Amone Jackson , Mukasa-Kivunike Peter , Makanga Livingstone , Orem Jackson , Mbona Tumwesigye Nazarius , Kalungi Sam , Ariaka Herbert , Mungherera Margaret , Nyankori Fred , Mukunya David , Ssentongo Katumba Fred
Published: November 2022

Background: The loss of health workers through death is of great importance and interest to the public, media and the medical profession as it has very profound social and professional consequences on the delivery of health services.

Objective: To describe the profile, causes and patterns of death among medical doctors and dental surgeons in Uganda between 1986 and 2016.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of mortality among registered medical doctors and dental surgeons. Information on each case was collected using a standard questionnaire and analysed. Cause of death was determined using pathology reports, and if unavailable, verbal autopsies. We summarized our findings across decades using means and standard deviations, proportions and line graphs as appropriate. Cuzick’s test for trend was used to assess crude change in characteristics across the three decades. To estimate the change in deaths across decades adjusted for age and sex, we fit a logistic regression model, and used the margins command with a dy/dx option. All analyses were done in Stata version 14.0 (Stata Corp, College Station, TX).

Results: There were 489 deaths registered between 1986 and 2016. Of these, 59 (12.1%) were female. The mean age at death was 48.8 years (Standard Deviation (SD) 15.1) among male and 40.1 years (SD 12.8) among females. We ascertained the cause of death for 468/489 (95.7%). The most common causes of death were HIV/AIDS (218/468, 46.6%), cancer (68/468, 14.5%), non-communicable diseases (62/48, 13.3%), alcohol related deaths (36, 7.7%), road traffic accidents (34, 7.3%), gunshots (11, 2.4%), among others. After adjusting for age and sex, HIV/AIDs attributable deaths decreased by 33 percentage points between the decade of 1986 to1995 and that of 2006 to 2016 –0.33 (–0.44, –0.21. During the same period, cancer attributable deaths increased by 13 percentage periods 0.13 (0.05,0.20).

Conclusion: The main causes of death were HIV/AIDS, cancer, non-communicable diseases, alcohol-related diseases and road traffic accidents. There was a general downward trend in the HIV/AIDS related deaths and a general upward trend in cancer related deaths. Doctors should be targeted for preventive and support services especially for both communicable and non-communicable diseases.

Keywords: Profile and causes of death; medical doctors; dental surgeons; Uganda.
Closing the gaps in defining and conceptualising acceptability of healthcare: a qualitative thematic content analysis
Authors: Blaise Bucyibaruta Joy , Peu Doriccah , Bamford Lesley , Van der Wath Annatjie
Published: November 2022

Introduction: Despite the importance of healthcare acceptability, the public health community has yet to agree on its explicit definition and conceptual framework. We explored different definitions and conceptual frameworks of healthcare acceptability, and identified commonalities in order to develop an integrated definition and conceptual framework of healthcare acceptability.

Materials and Methods: We applied qualitative thematic content analysis on research articles that attempted to define healthcare acceptability. We searched online databases and purposefully selected relevant articles that we imported into ATLAS.ti 8.4 for deductive and inductive analysis which continued until there were no new information emerging from selected documents (data saturation).

Results: Our analysis of the literature affirmed that healthcare acceptability remains poorly defined; limiting its application in public health. We proposed a practical definition attempting to fill identified gaps. We defined acceptability as a “multi-construct concept describing the nonlinear cumulative combination in parts or in whole of the fit between the expected and experienced healthcare from the patient, provider or healthcare systems and policy perspectives in a given context.”

Practice Implications: We presented and described a workable definition and framework of healthcare acceptability that can be applied to different actors including patients, healthcare providers, researchers, managers or policy makers.

Keywords: Defining and conceptualising acceptability; healthcare; content analysis.
Functional iron status of chronic kidney disease patients at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Ilorin, Nigeria
Authors: O Sanni Emmanuel , O Olawumi Hannah , A Durotoye Idayat , O Olanrewaju Timothy , S  Babatunde Abiola , A Shittu Olasunkanmi , A Biliaminu Sikiru , O Omokanye Khadijat , Kehinde Ogunfemi Mutiat , Akinwumi Olabisi O , S Oyedepo Dapo , M Adepoju Ayodeji
Published: November 2022

Background: Functional iron deficiency has been found to be a common cause of poor response to erythropoiesis stimulating agents in anaemic patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Objectives: Assess the functional iron status of patients with chronic kidney disease.

Methods: This was a hospital based cross sectional study. The study subjects were chronic kidney disease patients with age and sex matched healthy controls. Full blood count, serum ferritin, soluble transferring receptor, C-reactive protein, serum iron and total iron binding capacity were measured in the patients and healthy controls. Data was analyzed with statistical package for the social sciences software version 22.0. And the level of statistical significance was set at p. value < 0.05.

Results: The mean ± SD of the age of patient with CKD was 55.0 + 15.4 years, while that of controls was 52.7 + 13.6 years. The mean serum ferritin, serum iron, TIBC and CRP were significantly higher in patients compared with controls (p<0.001, 0.023, <0.001 and 0.001) respectively. Functional iron deficiency was seen in 19.5% of patients with CKD.

Conclusion: The predominant form of iron deficiency in our study was functional iron deficiency.

Keywords: Chronic kidney disease; functional iron status; anaemia.
Orange-fleshed sweet potato [Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam] genotype by environment interaction for yield and yield components and SPVD resistance under arid and semi-arid climate of northern Ethiopia
Authors: Lamaro Gloria Peace , Tsehaye Yemane , Girma Atkilt
Published: November 2022

Worldwide, sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) ranks the sixth most important crop valued for food security, income, and nutritious diet for poor farming communities. Despite its importance, there is lack of information and knowledge to introduce the crop to Afar region where malnourishment is high. Six orange-fleshed sweet potato genotypes (Amelia, Erica, Gloria, Ininda, Kulfo, and Melinda were evaluated for sweet potato viral disease (SPVD), yield and yield components in three contrasting locations, namely Aba’ala, Mekelle 1, and Mekelle 2 using a Randomized Complete Block Design to produce variance components. Joint regression, and additive main effects and multiplicative interactions were used to test the Genotype × Location Interactions (GEI). Means for significant traits were separated by Least Significant Difference (p<0.05). Results showed ample genetic variability for total tuberous yield (TTY), and SPVD resistance. Genotypes Ininda, Gloria, Amelia, and Kulfo were superior for TTY with high SPVD resistance. Aba’ala was a hotspot for SPVD, Mekelle 2 was with low SPVD and recorded a high mean TTY. Amelia and Kulfo exhibited static stability, Ininda and Gloria displayed dynamic stability, high harvest index, and fresh vine yield, and were recommended for further stability investigations. The information generated in this study may be useful as preliminary data however, the experiment has to be repeated for practical conclusions and recommendation of stable varieties for the studied agro-climatic zones.
Growth performance and feed utilization of Hubbard Classic chickens fed on boiled and sundried mango (Mangifera indica Linn.) seed kernel
Authors: Beriso Yasin , Tamir Berhan , Tesfaye Etalem
Published: November 2022

An investigation was undertaken to study the effects of feeding boiled mango seed kernel (BMSK) on the growth performance and feed utilization parameters of Hubbard broiler chicks with the objective of recommending the optimum level of mango seed kernel inclusion in broiler feed. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design with four treatments, each replicated three times with 13 birds each. One-hundred fifty-six-day-old chicks with uniform body weight (BW) were used and were distributed randomly to the four diets. The four treatment diets were control (T1) (100% maize + 0% BMSK), T2 (95% maize + 5% BMSK), T3 (90% maize + 10% BMSK) and T4 (85% maize + 15% BMSK). All the experimental chickens were weighted initially (initial BW) and lasted for 49 days during which growth performance traits were recorded. After 49 days, two birds from each replication were randomly selected and slaughtered to evaluate the effect of BMSK on the final body weight of the chicks. The results on average daily feed intake per bird for T1 and T2 were not significantly different, i.e., 71.4 and 70.8 g (P>0.05) but it was significantly higher than that of T3 and T4 which was 68.13 and 68.23 g. At the end of 7 weeks, the final BW of chicks fed on T1 and T2 were 2657 and 2644, not significantly different, but were significantly higher than that of T3 and T4 which were 2610 and 2603 g per bird, respectively. The Average daily BW gain (ADG) for the respective T1 and T2 was 53.4, 53.2 g and was significantly (P<0.05) higher than that of T3 and T4 which were 52.44 and 52.31 g per bird. The feed conversion ratio (g feed/g gain) for T1 and T2 was 1.36, 1.36 and was significantly higher than that of T3 and T4 which were 1.33 and 1.33 g per bird, respectively. Inclusion of mango seed kernel up to 15% in broiler nutrition has no detrimental effect, profitable and can be best alternative feed sources in broiler feed if treated well by using the best technical methods of anti-nutritional factors like boiling.
Voltammetric determination of paracetamol at glycine modified carbon paste electrode
Authors: Yohannes Yonas Beyene , Mekonnen Aragaw Nega , Assefa Mekuriaw
Published: November 2022

The lower body tolerance of paracetamol (PCT) is 50 ppm and if it surpasses; PCT will led to accumulation of toxic metabolites. A carbon paste electrode modified with glycine (GlyCPE) is used for the detection of PCT at relatively low concentrations. In contrast to the bare carbon paste electrode (CPE), an improved onset potential with a shifting of 85 mV and enhancement of anodic peak current at the modified electrode resulted in a the GlyCPE surface with a material that possesses an electroanalytical activity toward the oxidation of PCT. Differential pulse stripping voltammograms (DPSV) of PCT oxidation on the GlyCPE yielded a well-defined oxidation peak of 0.61 V in a 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution of pH 6.0 with a linear calibration from 5.0 to 1000 mM with R2 = 0.995. The DPSV detection limit was projected to be 0.12 mM. In the presence of the interfering ascorbic acid (AA) of 50 and 100 mM, the GlyCPE was able to detect the PCT (100 mM) with a percentage of detection of 100.16 and 97.79, respectively, which did not affect significantly the peak current response of the PCT. Besides, the fabricated GlyCPE accurately measured the amount of PCT in three brand pharmaceutical samples.
Editorial
Authors: Danquah Monica Mensah
Published: November 2022

No abstract.
Demographic characteristics as correlates to the choice of librarianship as a profession in Bayelsa State, Nigeria
Authors: Mandu March Akpowaide
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between demographic characteristics and the choice of librarianship as a profession in Bayelsa state, Nigeria. The study was prompted by poor job performance, loss of interest and abandoning of the job as a result of demographic characteristics. The study was carried out using a correlation research design. Four research questions, four objectives guided the study and four research hypotheses were formulated and tested at the 0.05 level of significance. The population of the study was 47 Librarians permanently employed in the University libraries. The Census sampling technique was used for the study. This enables the use of all the 47 Librarians employed in the academic libraries in Bayelsa state. Questionnaire entitled “Demographic Characteristics and Choice of Profession Questionnaire” (DCCPQ). The instrument with the purpose of the study and the research questions were given to three experts in the Departments of Library and Information Science, Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rivers State, to validate the instrument. The experts validated items for clarity, relevance to the purpose of the study and the appropriateness of the language and the accuracy of the instructions to the respondents. The reliability of the instrument was established using the test-re-test method. Copies of the questionnaires were administered to 20 librarians at Rivers State University Library, Nkpolu, Rivers State, Nigeria who were not part of the main study. The data obtained from the administration were analyzed using the Pearson products moment formula. The result yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.65. The r-value was subjected to the Spearman-Brown Prophetic formula which yielded a coefficient of 0.82 signifying that the instrument was reliable for the study. Copies of the questionnaire were administered to the respondents by the researcher, with the research assistant each from the university under study. Linear Regression analysis was used to answer and test the null hypotheses at the 0.05 level of significance with the help of Statistics Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 23. The findings of the study showed the relationship between demographic characteristics and the choice of librarianship as a profession in Bayelsa state, Nigeria. It is recommended among others that Demographic characteristics should be considered by school counselors where students are guided to choose librarianship as a profession.
Records management for open government at Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development Botswana
Authors: Motlhasedi Nna
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this paper is to help records and information management professionals of organisations for both the public and private sector to understand the role good records keeping brings to the attainment of open government. This paper complements open government through the application of a records management perspective to an analysis of the records management practices. Conversely, the study adopted a mixed methods approach to collect data from the Ministry of Local Government and Rural Development (MLGRD) that consisted of purposively sampled respondents. The target population consisted of 54 respondents. Forty-five questionnaires were distributed, with 33 successfully completed and returned to the researcher. Similarly, nine Heads of Departments (HoDs) were scheduled for interviews and only five interviews successfully continued as planned, and the study included appropriate documents for analysis. The study’s findings showed that there is a lack of good records management overall at the MLGRD, which emanated from unskilled records management staff. Similarly, the study identified MLGRD staff manning the records management division to being incapable of managing digital records. Furthermore, the findings revealed that there is no proper infrastructure to manage digital records and that there is no records management policy to be used to guide on good records keeping practices. Based on the findings, the study, among others, it is recommended that the records management staff of the MLGRD should be upskilled to have records management competencies, especially in digital records keeping, and that the MLGRD should acquire ICT infrastructure to support good digital records keeping practices.
value accorded to electronic records as a reflection of information culture among selected parastatals in Botswana
Authors: Thabakgolo Mogogi , Nsibirwa Zawedde
Published: November 2022

Sound records management has always been hailed to achieve organisational efficiency and effectiveness, and to set goals. However, electronic records management remains a challenge to many organisations despite the importance of records to organisations. Given the persisting challenges, the study examined Botswana's electronic records management issues in three selected parastatals. This study investigated the value of records (behaviour and attitudes) as a reflection of information culture in these parastatals and the state of electronic records creation and capture in selected parastatals. An information culture assessment framework was used to investigate the behaviour and attitudes of employees towards records management. The study adopted a mixed method approach, in which both qualitative and quantitative approaches were applied. One hundred and one employees from the three selected parastatals participated in an online survey and were sampled through listed-based random sampling. In the mixed methods approach, the survey plays an exploratory role. Five interviews were conducted with records managers and chief executive officers’ representatives. The target population was 139 respondents; 106 employees from the three parastatals participated. A questionnaire link was sent to 133 randomly selected participants; 101 responded to the survey. Five interviews were conducted out of the six targeted respondents. The study's findings revealed policies and procedures for records creation were not followed. Employees did not know the proper metadata to capture. Furthermore, the findings revealed that different behaviours and attitudes were given to records management. The attitudes and behaviour manifested in the following use and non-use of electronic records, willingness to carry out records management procedures, willingness to participate in records management training, treating records as everybody's responsibility and senior management support. The study recommends that organisations should carry out in-house training and develop strategies that ensure that employees are well conversed with records management processes and procedures to change their behaviour and attitudes towards records.