bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Migrations intra-africaines : changer de focale
Authors: Bredeloup Sylvie
Published: June 2021

Les recherches sur les migrations intra-africaines restent minoritaires dans le champ des études sur les migrations alors que trois quarts des Africains continuent de migrer à l’intérieur du continent. S’appuyant sur des dispositifs méthodologiques multi-situés, la majorité des travaux rendent compte de la réversibilité des flux migratoires tout comme de la complexification des configurations transnationales. Ils éclairent la fluidité des identifications en cette période d’inhospitalité exacerbée. Hors du cadre paradigmatique façonné par les organisations internationales, ils s’efforcent de renouveler la lecture des migrations de transit et de retour.
George Floyd et l’Afrique : retour sur le lieu du crime
Authors: Gondola Didier
Published: June 2021

Cet article examine les soubresauts causés par le meurtre de George Floyd aux États-Unis. Il questionne les enjeux que cette mort et des dizaines d’autres revêtent pour la condition des Noirs, en inscrivant ces enjeux dans la longue durée, en particulier celle de la croissance rhizomatique du racisme anti-Noir en Amérique et ailleurs. Il désarticule les ressorts qui sous-tendent les bavures policières et autres crimes racistes, en retenant finalement la construction ainsi que la mise à l’index du Noir comme les motifs principaux et l’Afrique comme le lieu du crime.
Parler de l’extrême-droite
Authors: Houard-Vial Emilien
Published: June 2021

Cet article étudie le discours des militants des Républicains à propos du Front national, sachant le dilemme de la droite partisane tiraillée entre convergence idéologique et responsabilité démocratique. Cette enquête s’appuie pour cela sur une enquête localisée dans trois villes moyennes françaises, dont une ville méditerranéenne. Elle identifie un registre normatif propre aux militants LR, davantage axée sur la préservation d’un ordre socioéconomique et la distinction entre partis protestataires et de gouvernement que sur la préservation d’un ordre démocratique et républicain. Elle montre en revanche que ce registre s’exprime différemment selon l’environnement sociopolitique des militants, et que l’opposition de principe au Front national peut être fragilisée selon la situation politique et électorale locale.
Oralités paysannes. Autour de George Sand
Authors: Saminadayar-Perrin Corinne
Published: June 2021

Alors qu’au début du xix e  siècle, l’intérêt grandit pour les cultures des campagnes, la représentation écrite des parlers paysans se heurte encore à des codes littéraires qui tendent à la dévaloriser ou à l’idéaliser et empêchent de figurer de manière satisfaisante le monde rural. Cet article propose de se pencher sur les stratégies narratives développées par George Sand dans ses romans champêtres pour contrer ce double écueil, linguistique et anthropologique. Sand y cherche constamment à mettre en valeur la vocalité des parlers paysans et à souligner leur ancrage dans des cultures spécifiques dont la richesse excède de loin le traditionnel clivage entre oral et écrit. À terme, c’est à un projet politique de réconciliation démocratique auquel œuvrent les romans champêtres, en s’inscrivant dans une problématique mêlant ethnolinguistique et anthropologie pour mieux réviser les grands partages littéraires, culturels et symboliques.
Psychiatric Emergencies: Emergency Department Management of Altered Mental Status
Authors: Salani Deborah , Valdes Beatriz , De Oliveira Giovanna C. , King Beth
Published: June 2021

In the United States, encounters related to mental and substance use disorders are common in emergency departments (EDs). Altered mental status (AMS) is a frequent presentation seen in EDs across the country. Individuals may present to the ED with altered thought processes, which may be attributed to intoxication from substances and/or psychoses, conditions that require immediate care and management. Health care providers must always ascertain the etiology of AMS, which may be challenging owing to the various causes of this impairment. The current article provides an overview of the most common disorders associated with AMS, which include underlying medical conditions, substance use, and mental disorders. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 59
(9), 16–25.]
Effect of Standardized Patient Simulation on Nursing Students' Attitudes Toward Psychiatric Nursing and Patients With Mental Health Problems
Authors: Kameg Brayden , Fradkin Dina , Lee Heeyoung
Published: June 2021

The purpose of the current study was to evaluate changes in attitudes toward psychiatric nursing and mental health problems in a sample of nursing students after exposure to high-fidelity standardized patient (SP) simulation scenarios. This study used a quasi-experimental, single-group pre-/post-survey approach. Immediately before and after exposure to SP simulation scenarios, undergraduate nursing students completed Attitudes to Mental Illness (AMI) and the Attitudes to Psychiatry (ATP) surveys. There were significant improvements in the following ATP domains: psychiatric career choice and psychiatric teaching (
p
= 0.046 and 0.007, respectively). There were no significant changes in the AMI survey, but items related to social stigma improved following the simulation. Findings of this study suggest a potential benefit of SP simulation on nursing students in developing their attitudes toward psychiatry and mental health problems. [
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 59
(8), 15–21.]
On time decay for the spherically symmetric Vlasov-Poisson system
Authors: Schaeffer Jack
Published: June 2021

A collisionless plasma is modeled by the Vlasov-Poisson system. Solutions in three space dimensions that have smooth, compactly supported initial data with spherical symmetry are considered. An improved field estimate is presented that is based on decay estimates obtained by Illner and Rein. Then some estimates are presented that ensure only particles with sufficiently small velocity can be found within a certain (time dependent) ball.
Method of Information Technology Enhanced Japanese Vocabulary Learning and Evaluation
Authors: Huang Duen-Huang , Chueh Hao-En , Huang Huai-Te , Ho Hong-Fa , Kao Chang-Yi
Published: June 2021

Japanese vocabulary proficiency is directly related to Japanese language proficiency, and the learning and evaluation of Japanese vocabulary is vital in Japanese learning. To evaluate the learners’ Japanese vocabulary proficiency, in this study, we propose an effective method for evaluating Japanese vocabulary and implement it into a system. To prove the evaluation ability of the proposed method and implemented system, we conducted an experiment involving 80 students from the Japanese Group of the department of applied foreign languages of a senior high school to investigate the effectiveness of the method and system. The results of this study confirmed that (1) the reliability and validity of the proposed Japanese vocabulary evaluation method and system are favorable; and (2) the correlation coefficient between the experimental results and the students’ academic performance is higher than 0.80. Theoretically, the multidimensional Japanese vocabulary quotient model proposed herein can be the basis for Japanese vocabulary detection. Practically, the low-cost and rapid Japanese vocabulary evaluation system developed is applicable to educational evaluation, whereas the technical evaluation method and system for Japanese vocabulary can improve the efficiency and effectiveness in evaluating the Japanese vocabulary of learners.
Applications of Data Mining in Mitigating Fire Accidents Based on Association Rules
Authors: Mahmood Ibrahim Nasir , Aliedane Hussein Ali , Abuzaraida Mustafa Ali
Published: June 2021

Due to the increased rate of fire accidents which cause many damages and losses to people souls, material, and property in Basra city. The necessity of analyzing and mining the data of the fire accidents became an urgent need to find a solution. The need increased for a solution that helps to mitigate and reduce the number of accidents. In this paper, data mining techniques and applications including data preprocessing, data cleaning, and data exploration have been applied. Data mining applications is performed to analyze and discover the hidden knowledge in ten years of data (fire accidents happened from 2010 – 2019) which is approximately 20k record of accidents. These data mining techniques along with the association rules algorithm is applied on the dataset. The applied approach and techniques resulted in discovering the patterns and the nature of the fire accidents in Basra city. It also helped to reach to recommendations and resolutions for mitigating the fire accidents and its occurrence rate.
Citizen data-driven design for pandemic monitoring
Authors: Cordeiro Raquel Corrêa , Mont'Alvão Claudia , Quaresma Manuela
Published: June 2021

In a world concerned with the coronavirus pandemic, many governments do not know how to control the disease. Although there are several technologies that generate citizen data, transparency, and privacy are very important to ensure social engagement and more effectiveness in fighting the virus. This article analyzed some applications that contact tracing people or inform them about the disease. We selected the applications based on how they captured data, privacy issues, citizen participation, and the main challenges faced. Later, we created the app journey map to compare them and discovered the most used technology is Bluetooth, and the apps often have open source. However, these initiatives bring superficial insights and need to integrate with more complex data.
Towards strategic design: the experience of two Colombian MSMEs
Authors: Segura-Duque Vanessa , García-Acosta Gabriel , Peñuela-Delgado Lina , Lange-Morales Karen
Published: June 2021

This qualitative-interpretive study reflects on the experience of two MSMEs that adapted rapidly to meet the need for protection products and maintain their production in the midst of confinement decreed by the city and country authorities, as a containment measure for the pandemic caused by the Covid-19, and where design was a key factor. The different experiences are organized taken the Product sociotechnical Cycles (PstC) model as a conceptual basis, analyzing the case studies from the organizational capabilities of industrial design, as well as from design-driven innovation. The article ends by summarizing the learnings, emphasizing the value of design with a strategic focus, in these processes of change.
Co-Design of Do-It-Yourself Face Shield in Japan Under COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Tsuda Kazutoshi , Sakuragi Mariko
Published: June 2021

Along with the spread of open design environments and various types of digital fabrication tools (e.g., computer numerical control machines, laser cutting devices, and 3D printers), the "maker movement" or "personal fabrication" has been spreading worldwide over the past decade. This case study introduces grassroots activities in Japan that are employing personal fabrication tools to manage the COVID-19 crisis, focusing on the co-design of do-it-yourself face shields for healthcare workers. We address various issues emerging from the activities of face shield production: (1) development of face shield designs and materials, (2) examination and information sharing regarding the practicality and safety of open-source designs, and (3) collaboration with local factories. Thus, we demonstrate the significance of maker contributions to COVID-19, and provide suggestions for challenges in the future.
Looking through the window: emotional experiences of Instagram users in isolation
Authors: De Paulo Beatriz , Damazio Vera , Quaresma Manuela
Published: June 2021

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the health and wellbeing of people around the world has become an important research topic. Even for non-essential workers, social isolation has drastically changed people’s lives and habits. Considering that our daily lives and habits occur largely through the intermediation of products and services, social isolation may have drastically changed people's relationship with the products and services surrounding them. Thus, social media apps like Instagram have become crucial sources of information, social connection, and entertainment for the socially isolated. This article investigates the role of social media applications in people’s daily lives in isolation, based on the analysis of their emotional experiences. To this end, an exploratory study was carried out with 13 users in social isolation, based on diaries in which they reported the experiences they had through the Instagram platform from June 15th to June 29th. Results showed that Instagram had brought predominantly positive experiences to its users; however, negative emotions related to an excess of information and content consumption were also relevant. The results and conclusions of this work can be considered in future investigations about parameters for developing digital products that aim to reduce negative experiences and anxiety.
“OPER.TEN” Transform Emergency Now! - facing Covid-19 with Open Innovation and Human Centered Design
Authors: Mincolelli Giuseppe , Cocchi Nicolò , Dosi Clio , Vignoli Matteo
Published: June 2021

The paper presents “OPER.TEN”, a 10 days program that hybridized Human Centered Design (HCD) with Open innovation (OI), developed in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The program adapted a HCD methodology so that the design teams could face the challenges of designing during a pandemic, such as relying on remote interactions only.  Methodological challenges are presented as well as tools and methods developed to overcome those challenges. To ensure fast implementation of the results, the HCD methodology was hybridized with pillars of OI by involving stakeholders of the territory that could participate with implementation capacity. The final network involved Universities, Companies, Municipality, and Government. After the design phase, 3 of 4 solutions were successfully implemented in 40 days. Results report how to hybridize a HCD with OI to push rapid implementations.
The impact of sharing platforms on collaborative design development during emergencies: the case of COVID-19
Authors: Freire Rodrigo Argenton , Monteiro Evandro Ziggiatti
Published: June 2021

The COVID-19 outbreak resulted in an emergency of projects developed, shared and produced by makers, fablabs and open source enthusiasts. These projects are often released in design sharing platforms, e.g. Thingiverse, Github and Instructables, under open source licenses. It is often argued that the release of such projects holds potential for enhancing collaboration, continuous development and design dissemination. These arguments have been subject of recent studies on the structure of maker/Open Design communities and sharing platforms. This study aims to contribute to the on-going debate on the potentialities of such communities. We adopt an explorative approach to (i) identify the influence of the COVID-19 outbreak on the activity volume of Thingiverse, the object of our study, (ii) analyze the designs metadata and its network patterns, and (iii) identify interaction patterns based on real-world localities. Based on our findings we comment on the importance of the maker/Open Design communities to tackle critical situations and highlight the current limitations for a wider dissemination of open source designs. Our findings may contribute to build better tools for designers and enthusiasts of the maker/open culture as well as to studies on collaborative development.
Microfinance and Debt Trap
Authors: Uddin Md Akther , Uddin S. M. Sohrab
Published: June 2021

This paper studies microfinance and debt trap nexus. We have used an ethnographic approach, unstructured observation and interviews, to develop scenarios with the help of which we try to explain the phenomenon. Our research was carried out in DipKalaMoral, a small village located in Shikalbaha union under Karnaphuli Upazila of Chittagong in Bangladesh. We have found that excessive leverage through multiple borrowing lead to debt trap when households face unexpected income shocks due to economic cycle, unexpected weather (like heavy monsoon), wedding expenditure or paying dowry, and unexpected healthcare expenditure. In addition to that, we have found that informal money lenders tend to exploit households when households are heavily leveraged. Interestingly, we have identified a new phenomenon, ‘borrowing for others’ when households borrow from Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) to lend money to others. A number of policy measures have been recommended which could be beneficial for policy makers and MFIs.
Anterior crossbite: What it truly reflects?
Authors: Weerasinghe H.G.R.N.
Published: June 2021

Introduction: Crossbite is a discrepancy in buccolingual relationship of the upper and lower teeth. When the labial surface of the lower anterior teeth occlude labial to the labial surface of the upper anterior teeth is called as anterior cross bite. The aetiology for anterior crossbite can be vary. Crossbite of all of the incisors is usually rarely found in children who do not have class III skeletal jaw relationship. A crossbite relationship of one or two anterior teeth, however, may develop in a child who has good facial proportions. A comprehensive understanding of the problem by the practitioner is a key element for successful management.
Oral Health and an Aging Population
Authors: Samarakoon Sirimevan Bandara
Published: June 2021

No abstract available.
Nature Tourism in India-Red Sander Plant Species of YSR District, Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Vellore Ramabrahmam , Vudhayaraju Varija
Published: June 2021

The Medical tourism studies report for the year 2015 indicates that more than 2,000,000 patients from abroad travelled to India. Ayurveda has attracted the attention of global population especially the developed countries since ages for the promotion of medical tourism encompassing modern medical sciences and the ancient Indian medical systems Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy (AYUSH). Foreign travellers were coming to India since centuries in search of knowledge. Medical tourism in India is a multibillion-dollar provider industry and attracting millions of foreigners and domestic to visit incredible heritage of country and enjoy the medicinal blessings of traditional Vedas and Upanishads. India is full of well trained, qualified and experienced professionals and doctors. India ‘s medical tourism sector is expected to experience an annual growth rate of 30%, making it Rs. 9,500-crore industry by 2015. Estimates of the value of medical tourism to India go as high as $2 billion a year by 2012. Currently, India is second only to Thailand in the number of medical tourists it has attracted since the early 1990s. Red sandalwood grown on the shale subsoil, at altitudes around 750 meters (2,460 ft), and in semi-arid climatic conditions gives a distinctive wavy grain margin. Lumber pieces with the wavy grain margin are graded as "A" grade. Red sandalwood with wavy grain margins sells at higher prices than the standard wood in market. Red sandalwood is used for treating digestive tract problems, fluid retention, and coughs and for “blood purification.” Red sandalwood might increase the loss of body water through the urine (diuretic effect). Red sanders are used for Cosmetic remedies face pack for dry skin. Many of the Indian hospitals have a holistic center in its premise with more ancient forms of treatments such as yoga and meditation programs, and herbal medicine, naturopathy, homoeopathy, and acupuncture departments.
Proarrhythmia assessment in treatment with hydroxychloroquine and azithromycin hospitalized elderly COVID-19 patients - our experience
Authors: Costa Raffaele , Castagna Alberto , Torchia Carlo , Ruberto Carmen , Vespertini Viviana , Cosco Lucio , Ruotolo Giovanni
Published: June 2021

The aim of our study was to characterize the repolarization disorders propensity induced by drug-drug interaction. In this observational retrospective study, we report our experience on all elderly patients with ascertained diagnosis of coronavirus disease 2019 through nasopharyngeal swab with real time-polymerase chain reaction at our Pugliese-Ciaccio hospital in Catanzaro, who received hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), with or without azithromycin (AZY). 33 hospitalized patients were examined. We calculated QT value, cQT, QT dispersion, and cQT dispersion and examined possible progression on the basal electrocardiogram (T0) and after the insertion of the drug (T1). The QT value is increased by T0 vs T1 (370±40.74 vs 420±36.91 ms; P=0.000), as well as the cQT value (408±25.40 vs 451.54±58.81; P=0.003), the QT dispersion (QTd: 36.36±14.53 vs 50.90±13.12 ms; P=0.000); the dispersion of cQTc (cQTd 46.27±18.72 vs 63.18±21.93 ms; P=0.001). The ΔQT was 37.44±44.09 while the ΔcQT was 32.01±56.47). The main determinant of QTc prolongation is the number of drug at risk of prolongation of the QT that could influence the ventricular repolarization phase. The use of HCQ in combination with AZY, in patients suffering from severe acute respiratory syndrome-related coronavirus-2, can favor the onset of serious side effects, even potentially fatal. Finally, the measures of QTd and cQTd confirmed additional electrocardiographic parameters useful in identifying patients being treated with drugs at risk of potential adverse arrhythmic events following drug interaction.
LA CULTURA IN LOMBARDIA NELLâ€™ETÃ€ TERESIANA
Authors: Gaspari Gianmarco
Published: June 2021

The first half of the 18th century, in a way, is a period of preparation, ending with two facts that will soon acquire a considerable symbolic significance: the death of Ludovico Antonio Muratori and the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle. In Milan, Muratoriâ€™s legacy mainly lies in the historical studies, but it can also be seen in the project of an increasingly strong interaction between culture and society. The new intellectual generation, gathering around the periodical â€œIl CaffÃ¨â€, adds to what Muratori had taught the explosive mixture of novelties from the transalpine countries, first of all, Diderot and dâ€™Alembertâ€™s EncyclopÃ©die, and the revolutionary place it gives to â€˜practiceâ€™ within the hierarchy of knowledge. â€œIl CaffÃ¨â€, and works such as On Crimes and Punishments, Meditations on Happiness, and Observations on Torture, but even Pariniâ€™s civil poetry, hand down to the following century a multifarious reflection on justice, social coexistence, and improvement of mankind, which will become deeply rooted in the collective consciousness, thus reducing the 17th-century gap between Italy and Europe regarding science.
The Prevalence of Hepatitis B and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection among Pregnant Women Attending Antenatal Clinics in Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Ben Solomon Asuquo , Etefia Etefia U. , Ben Hannah S.
Published: June 2021

Background:

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) are viral infections that are transmitted through transfusion of unscreened blood products, needlestick injuries, and unprotected sex. This was a study to determine the prevalence of Hepatitis B and HIV infection among pregnant women accessing antenatal care.

Materials and Methods:

Two ml of venous blood was also collected into ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid bottles for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) and HIV test using a rapid diagnostic test kit following the standard algorithm of performing diagnosis.

Results:

Of the 250 participants examined for the presence of HBV and HIV among pregnant women attending the antenatal clinic in Calabar, 14 (5.6%) and 3 (1.2%) were positive for HBsAg and HIV. Participants aged 26–30 years had the highest prevalence of HBsAg 8 (7.0%) and participants aged 31–35 had the highest prevalence of HIV 1 (3.2%). The seroprevalence of HBsAg and HIV infection among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics by occupation shows that students had the highest infection rate of 3 (9%) and 2 (6%) for HBsAg and HIV. Of the 250 participants enrolled, the level of HIV and HBV awareness was 178 (71.2%) and 242 (96.8%), respectively.

Conclusions:

The study has revealed that the prevalence of HBV and HIV is on the increase among pregnant women, with a prevalence of 5.6% and 1.2%, respectively. General precautions need to be strictly adhered to in the hospital and particularly in blood transfusion and handling of sharps objects.
Role of glutathione S-transferase P1 polymorphism in early transplant complications in patients undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Saritas Hazen , Suyani Elif , Güntekin Sezen , Zeynep Aki ahika , Ergün Mehmet Ali , Çelik Bülent , Sucak Gülsan Turkoz
Published: June 2021

Introduction:

Complications in patients undergoing allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (allo-HSCT) cause serious morbidity and mortality. Predicting patients at risk in advance and changing the symptomatic care and/or preparation regimen according to this risk assessment have been emphasized recently. Several single-nucleotide polymorphisms have been studied, and some were found to be responsible for early complications. Glutathione S-transferase P1 (GSTP1) is an enzyme involved in the detoxification process that reduces oxidative stress by reducing the number of free oxygen radicals.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between GSTP1 polymorphism and early complications of allo-HSCT, iron parameters, overall survival (OS), and transplantation-related mortality (TRM).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 50 patients diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (n = 23) or acute lymphoblastic leukemia (n = 27) who underwent allo-HSCT between May 2008 and February 2011 at Gazi University Faculty of Medicine, Stem Cell Transplantation Unit, were included.

Results:

Of the 50 patients, 24 (48%) were women and 26 (52%) were men. The median age of the patients was 26 (16–74) years. GSTP1 polymorphism was detected in 23 (46%) patients, and 27 (54%) had no polymorphism (wild type). The two groups were compared in terms of early toxicity after transplantation, according to the preparation regimen. The group with GSTP1 polymorphism was found to have a high transferrin saturation index (P < 0.05). Patients with no GSTP1 polymorphism showed a high grade III–IV anemia ratio (P < 0.05). The presence of sinusoidal obstruction syndrome and graft–versus–host disease was similar in both groups (P > 0.05). OS and TRM were higher in the GSTP1 polymorphism group, but no statistical difference was found between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

TSI was higher in the GSTP1 polymorphism group. GSTP1 polymorphism had no effect on early transplantation complications. Although the OS and TRM ratios were higher in the GSTP1 polymorphism group, no statistically significant difference was found between the groups. Further studies with larger sample size are needed.
Rectal wall sparing effect of a rectal retractor in prostate intensity-modulated radiotherapy
Authors: Ghaffari Hamed , Rostami Aram , Ardekani Mahdieh Afkhami , Mofid Bahram , Mahdavi Seied Rabi
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a rectal retractor (RR) designed to protect rectal tissue in intensity-modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) by pushing rectal wall (RW) away from the prostate.

Materials and Methods:

Twelve patients with localized prostate cancer were enrolled into this study. Patients underwent two computed tomography (CT) scans without and with RR. A prescription of 80 Gy in 40 fractions was planned on CT scans with and without RR. This study evaluates the ability of the RR in RW dose reduction, in particular reduction of the RW V 70Gy≥ 25% in comparison with the plan without RR dose-volume histograms were generated with and without RR. The patient's tolerance was assessed by patient-reported outcomes.

Results:

The planning target volume coverage was equal for both without and with RR (P = 0.155). The mean dose to the RW was statistically significantly lower for the plan with RR than that for the plan without RR, a mean reduction of 5.8 Gy (P = 0.003). Significant relative reductions in rectal dose-volume parameters whether in absolute volume (cc) or as a percentage of contoured RW were detected. A relative reduction more than 25% in RW V70Gy(%) in 100% of patients was achieved. The rectal retraction resulted in a significant increase in the prostate to the rectum space at the prostate midgland level, an absolute increase of 2.7 mm. The retraction of the rectum induced a mean (±standard deviation) pain score of 2.7 (±1.3) according to the visual analog score.

Conclusion:

The application of a RR showed a remarkable rectal sparing effect during prostate IMRT. This may lead to reduced acute and late rectal toxicities in prostate IMRT.
Bacillus Calmette–Guérin-induced perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies associated vasculitis in bladder cancer
Authors: Kocak Sibel Yucel , Kudu Aysegul , Apaydın Suheyla
Published: June 2021

Intravesical instillation of Bacillus Calmette–Guérin (BCG) immunotherapy remains the most effective adjuvant treatment for noninvasive bladder cancer. Systemic BCG-related complications are rare and usually related to infective agent or an immune-mediated reaction. We discussed a case with perinuclear antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (p-ANCA) vasculitis, developing after instillation of BCG for non-invasive bladder cancer. A 68-year-old man presented with nephritic syndrome a few months after BCG instillations which was performed for his non–muscle-invasive bladder cancer adjuvant therapy. The renal function had declined slowly after the first instillation and urinary sediment reveals the new onset of nephritic proteinuria and hematuria. High titer of p-ANCA was present. His renal biopsy was consistent with acute renal vasculitis. The patient's creatinine level regressed with immunosuppressive therapy and he was clinically followed up without hemodialysis. Here, we presented a patient that diagnosed as p-ANCA related vasculitis occurred after BCG instillation.
Traction alopecia among adolescents in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Okoro Obumneme E. , Barminas Rachel A. , Imam Abubakar , Ogunbiyi Adebola O.
Published: June 2021

Background

Traction alopecia (TA) is common among women of African descent. There is limited information on the etiology and predisposing factors for TA among adolescents in Nigeria. This information is fundamental in changing hair grooming habits, which result in the development of TA in adult women.

Objective

To determine the prevalence, pattern, trichoscopic features, and risk factors for TA among adolescents in Keffi, Nasarawa State, Nigeria.

Patients and methods

This was a cross-sectional study among 333 adolescents selected from secondary schools in Keffi. The students were interviewed to determine their hair care practices and symptoms of TA. The participants were examined for the presence of TA, and trichoscopy was done for those with TA. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25 Statistical software.

Results

The prevalence of TA was 15.1%. The temporal pattern (54.9%) was the commonest pattern. The trichoscopic features were the presence of peripilar casts (45.1%) and perifollicular halos (43.3%). TA was associated with many variables, but the identified risk factors after logistic regression were frequency of relaxing the hair (P=0.022), duration of covering hair (P=0.022), family economic status (P=0.023), and self-reported presence of dandruff (P=0.001).

Conclusion

TA occurs among adolescents in northern Nigeria. Increased frequency of relaxing the hair increases the risk of having TA, whereas the use of head scarfs reduced the chance of acquiring it. Further studies are required to evaluate the effect of hair covers on TA.
Acrokeratosis verruciformis of Hopf in an immunosuppressed adult
Authors: Awal Guneet , Matharoo Parwaaz , Kaur Simplepreet
Published: June 2021

Acrokeratosis verruciformis of Hopf (AKV) is a rare autosomal dominant genodermatosis. It can be characterized by warty papules with a symmetrical distribution involving dorsae of hands and feet. It can also involve elbows, knees, nails, and palms. It is more frequently seen in childhood but can also occur in adults. Various treatment methods have been tried, but superficial ablation is known to be the treatment of choice. In this case, an adult male with breast carcinoma who was also hepatitis B and C reactive presented with flesh-colored papular eruptions over bilateral hands and feet. No familial association was another unusual finding in this case. It has to be differentiated from Darier's disease. Histopathology helped to confirm the diagnosis of AKV. Moreover, the findings pointed toward the sporadic form of AKV in our patient. Rarity of data regarding the association of immunosuppression and AKV makes this an intriguing case.
Chemical profiling, in vitro antioxidant and antidiabetic assessment of flavonoids from the ethanol extract of Hermannia geniculata root
Authors: Adeniran L.A. , Palanisamy C.P. , Ashafa A.O.T.
Published: June 2021

Determination of the in vitro antioxidant and the inhibitory potential of flavonoids from Hermannia geniculata (FHG) roots on diabetes-linked enzymes was carried out. The chemical profiling of FHG roots extract was investigated using High Pressure Thin Layer Chromatography (HPTLC) fingerprint analysis. The reactive oxygen scavenging potential of the extract was analyzed. Starch solution (1%) was reacted with different concentrations of FHG extract to determine the α-amylase inhibitory potential of the extract while α- glucosidase inhibition assay was carried out through incubation of different concentrations of the extract followed by addition of p-ntrophenyl-α-Dglucopyranoside solution. HPTLC results indicated the presence of flavonoids/ phenolcarboxylic acid, and Kaemferol (Rf 0.80) were detected in the extract with retention factor Rf. ranging from 0.08 to 0.95. FHG extract showed commendable antioxidant properties with IC50 values (3.07± 0.12, 2.13± 0.67) µg/mL for 1, 1-diphenyl-2- picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2, 2-azino-bis (3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic) acid (ABTS) radicals which were lower and significantly different (p<0.05) compared to standard silymarin with IC50: (3.55± 0.10, 2.77± 0.75) µg/mL for DPPH and ABTS respectively. The results indicated mild inhibition of α-amylase with IC50: (5.55± 0.37) µg/mL which was higher and significantly different (p<0.05) from acarbose with IC50: (3.81± 0.29) µg/mL. Moreover, the extract showed 73% inhibition of α-glucosidase. Kinetic studies of FHG extract revealed competitive and mixed non-competitive inhibition of α- amylase and α-glucosidase respectively. This study indicated FHG capabilities of scavenging reactive oxygen species and reducing hydrolysis of starch responsible for post-prandial hyperglyceamia seen in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Keywords: Antidiabetic, Antioxidant, Flavonoids, Hermannia geniculate, HPTLC
Mesenteric rent, ileal volvulus and ileocolic intussusception in a 3-year-old large-white dry sow: A postmortem report
Authors: Saleh A. , Fatihu M.Y. , Usman S.G. , Adam M. , Sani N.A. , Abalaka S.E. , Tenuche O.Z.
Published: June 2021

This report presents a post-mortem (PM) finding of Large-White dry sow which died from complications associated with mesenteric rent, volvulus and intussusception. Other lesions included hydrothorax, ascites, and engorged mesenteric blood vessels, pale and enlarged liver. Helminthological and protozoological examinations of the intestinal samples were negative. Diagnosis of mesenteric rent, ileal volvulus and intussusception was reached. The diagnosis was attributable to the risk factors which include fight, excessive amounts of dry whey concentrate coupled with poor hygiene in the feeding and management system. Familiarizing swine farmers with the symptoms of bowel obstruction and provision of diagnostic facilities in commercial piggery farms will help in facilitating diagnosis and prompt action to prevent mortality and minimize economic loss.

Keywords: Intussusception, Mesenteric rent, Sow, Volvulus, Whey
Phenotypic status of elbow dysplasia in Boerboel dogs in Nigeria
Authors: Ajadi R.A. , Oyenekan I.O. , Alabi M.M. , Makinde O.A. , Ilugbo M.O. , Koleosho S.A.
Published: June 2021

Elbow dysplasia (ED) is a developmental, multifactorial, polygenic disease of rapidly growing, large breed of dogs. ED can be a significant health concern for affected dogs because treatments are largely ineffective, making selectively breeding of normal dogs the best option for disease control. Despite the relative availability of data on ED prevalence in other breeds, there is dearth of information on ED  prevalence in Boerboel dogs. This study evaluated ED prevalence and relative percentages of different ED grades in Boerboel dogs using radiographs of dogs presented for screening between April 2016 and September 2020. Extended latero-medial, flexed latero-medial and cranio-lateral-caudo-medial oblique radiographs from 64 dogs were reviewed. Radiographs were graded using international elbow working group (IEWG) criteria and grades 0-3 assigned to each joint. ED prevalence expressed as percentages were obtained by dividing the number of dogs with grades 1, 2 and 3 by total number of dogs. Age and sex difference in ED prevalence were compared using chi-square test. Differences were considered significant at P ≤ 0.05. Mean age of the dogs was 2.3 ± 0.6 years. Thirty-six (56.3%) dogs were graded as non-dysplastic, while 28(43.7%) were graded as dysplastic, with grade 3 (46.4%) accounting for majority of ED cases. There were no significant (p > 0.05) difference in sex and age prevalence of ED in the breed. In conclusion, ED prevalence in Boerboel dog is high with majority of dogs having severe grade. Widespread phenotypic screening and strict breeding restrictions are recommended| to control the disease in the breed.

Keywords: Boerboel, Dog, Elbow dysplasia, Prevalence, Radiographic screening
Total aerobic and Coliform counts from Oreochromis niloticus obtained from selected farms in Ibadan
Authors: Ogunleye S.C. , Ishola O.O. , Faroyin O.M. , Adedeji O.B.
Published: June 2021

The environment where fishes are caught often determines their microbial flora, many of which are potential spoilers and not necessarily pathogenic to fishes but are implicated as cause(s) of serious foodborne illnesses and toxin-infections in humans, hence, their presence above permissible levels portends food-safety threats. This study showed the microbial load in Oreochromis niloticus obtained from selected farms in Ibadan, Nigeria. A total of 156 samples consisting of gills, intestines and skins were collected from 52 O. niloticus obtained from Egbeda-(A), Ido-(B), Ibadan-north east-(C) and Ibadan north-west-(D) Local Government Areas of Ibadan for Microbial Load {Total Aerobic Count-(TAC) and Total Coliform Count-(TCC)} enumeration. TAC and TCC were performed using standard methods, and  calculated in mean Log Colony Forming Unit ± Standard Deviation (logCFu ± SD). Data were analysed with ANOVA. Overall mean logCFu ± SD TAC and TCC from gills, intestine and skin for the 156 samples were 8.65 ± 0.28 and 6.82 ± 0.20, respectively. Mean TAC 8.64 ± 0.28, 8.69 ± 0.28and 8.62 ± 0.3 and mean TCC 8.69 ± 0.22, 8.66 ± 0.23 and 8.73 ± 0.22 were obtained for gills, intestine and, skin respectively, with p>0.05. Means TAC 8.63 ± 0.36, 8.70 ± 0.20, 8.68 ± 0.33 and 8.56 ± 0.14 and TCC 8.56 ± 0.25, 8.86±0.16, 8.65 ± 0.18and 8.69 ± 0.16 were observed for locations A, B, C, and D respectively with p<0.05 for TAC and p˂0.05. Mean microbial load counts obtained in this study was higher than permissible count of 7 logCFu/mL by International Commission on Microbiological Specification for Foods (ICMSF) for fresh fish, thus, portending public health threats.

Keywords: Oreochromis niloticus, Aerobic bacteria, Enterobacteriacea and Coliforms
Evaluation of changes in spermiogram of Shika Brown® Breeder cocks fed dietary levels of baobab (Adansonia digitata) seedmeal
Authors: Fanaiye O.G. , Okoro L.I. , Shinkut M. , Samuel U.F. , Sinkalu V.O. , Rekwot I.P.
Published: June 2021

This study evaluated the effects of varying levels of Baobab seed-meal (BSM) on spermiogram of Shika Brown® breeder cocks. Thirty  apparently healthy cocks aged 30 weeks with average body weight of 1.78 ± 0.03 kg were used for this study. They were acclimatized and randomly divided into three groups of 10 each. Group A (control), fed 0% BSM growers diet, groups B, (5%) and group C, (10%) BSM diets. Semen samples were collected from each cock twice weekly for 28 days and spermiogram evaluated. Results indicated significant (P< 0.05) difference for mean volume, percentage live spermatozoa, sperm gross motilities and concentration between the treatment groups (B and C) and the control group (A). Mean abnormal sperm of cocks in groups B and C were significantly (P<0.05) lower compared to group A. It was concluded that BSM is likely to improve semen characteristics in breeder cocks. Therefore, it is recommended that BSM at 5% and 10% is safe and should be incorporated into breeder cocks diet by farmers for enhanced semen characteristics. 

Keywords: Baobab, Shika Brown®, spermiogram, semen, breeder
Shoulder Pain Prevention Program for Manual Wheelchair Users With Paraplegia: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Haubert Lisa Lighthall , Mulroy Sara J. , Eberly Valerie J. , Gronley JoAnne K. , Hatchett Patricia E. , Conners Sandy G.
Published: June 2021

Objectives: To compare prevalence of shoulder pain (SP) onset over 3 years for individuals with paraplegia from spinal cord injury who participate in one of two shoulder pain prevention program (SPPP) formats with that of a similar population without intervention, and to compare exercise adherence between two SPPP formats. Methods: The randomized clinical trial (compared to historical controls) included a volunteer sample of 100 individuals without SP at study entry. Eighty-seven participants returned for assessments at 18 and 36 months after study entry. Control group included 220 volunteers from a 3-year observational study with identical inclusion criteria. SPPPs included shoulder home exercises and recommendations to improve mobility techniques that are effective in reducing existing SP in this population. Participants were randomly assigned to receive either one instruction session and a refresher session 4 weeks later with a physical therapist or a 4-week series of 2-hour group classes taught by a physical therapist and peer mentor. Prevalence of SP onset at 18 and 36 months and self-reported average weekly exercise frequency were the main outcome measures. Results: SP onset was identical in the two SPPPs but was significantly lower at 18 and 36 months in both groups (11% and 24%) compared to controls (27% and 40%, p < .05). Self-reported average weekly exercise frequency was similar between intervention groups but was significantly lower during the first 4 months in participants who developed SP compared to those without pain (2.12 ± 1.0 vs. 3.01 ± 1.13, p < .05). Conclusion: SPPPs reduced SP onset prevalence regardless of instruction format. Exercise adherence was important to the outcome of shoulder pain.
The Study of Prevalence of Depression and Anxiety in Undergraduate Medical Students – A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: A G Vijay Kumar , M G Shivaramu , U Kumar
Published: June 2021

Depression and anxiety with other phobic and behavioral disorders manifest as a continuum of spectrum of psychiatric disorders, with social phobia being an important subset and particular type of anxiety disorder almost predominantly having its onset in adolescence. Depression and anxiety also have certain common biological underpinnings. Moreover, these comorbid disorders overlap with each other in many aspects. A cross-sectional study was done among medical undergraduate students in Adichunchanagiri Institute of Medical Sciences, BG Nagara, Nagamangala Taluk, from April 2020 to June 2020. The study comprised 100 students. A pretested semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect data regarding sociodemographic profile, depression, anxiety symptoms, social phobia, and their determinants. In the present study, out of 100 participants, 63 students had depression, mild mood disturbance was the most common type (31 students) followed by borderline depression in 17 students and moderate depression in 13 students. Two students complained of severe depression. Out of 33 students who had anxiety, mild anxiety was the most common type (18 students) followed by moderate anxiety in 11 students and severe anxiety was complained by 4 students. Our study highlights the fact that there is a prevalence of mild-to-moderate depression among students in our considered area and these findings necessitate the incorporation of various health-care interventions at the schooling level such as student counseling services offering mental health assistance to improve their overall well-being and personality from a young age.
Asymptomatic Bacteriuria and its Antibiotic Susceptibility Patterns among Pregnant Women in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Gowda Trupthi , M Rajini
Published: June 2021

Background: Occurrence of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) in 2–11% of pregnant women is a major predisposition to the development of pyelonephritis, which is associated with significant maternal and fetal complications.
Aim : The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of ASB among pregnant women, to report the most common organisms causing ASB, along with their antibiotic sensitivity patterns.
Materials and Methods A total of 250 asymptomatic pregnant women were screened for ASB by urine culture by standard microbiological procedures and the antibiotic sensitivity patterns recorded.
Results Of the 250 pregnant women screened, 27 (10.8%) had ASB. The most common organism was Escherichia coli (52%) followed by Klebsiella pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus (19%). Majority of the uropathogens were found to be sensitive to nitrofurantoin (81%) and ciprofloxacin (63%).
Conclusions: The high prevalence of ASB among pregnant women (10.8%) in our center demands the need for routine screening of the pregnant women and treat them appropriately, to reduce the risk of complications associated with ASB.
Assessment of Psychological Distress among General Population during the Coronavirus Disease 2019 Pandemic Lockdown – An Indian Study
Authors: Pandit Lakshmi V , Salian Neil M , Salian Aishwarya M
Published: June 2021

Objective: In December 2019, the world experienced spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Measures to contain spread included movement restrictions (Lockdown), quarantine for contacts, and institutional care for those infected. Fear of contracting the infection, mortality rates, experience of a lockdown, and economic concerns exposed people to great stress. On this background, the present study was conducted to assess psychological distress in these times.
Methods: Consenting individuals comfortable to respond to an online survey were included as subjects. The study is cross-sectional in design; descriptive analysis and Chi-square tests were done. Socio demographic details were collected. Kessler 10 Psychological Distress Scale was administered to assess psychological well-being.
Results Psychological distress was seen in 68% of the sample, ranging from mild-to-severe, across all age group, except in those below 18 years. Those aged 30–59 years experienced psychological distress before lockdown as well. Females experienced more distress than males, as well as those of the group with lower income.
Conclusions: Responsibility of maintaining psychological well-being rests with each of us. Healthcare workers and mental health professionals need to identify and address psychological issues in the population during this period. Governmental organizations must take on the responsibility to educate the public through newspapers, television, and social media about the importance of maintaining positive psychological health and contribute to the same by honest journalism.