bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Les tensions du travail d’articulation dans l’encadrement de l’aide à domicile. Le cas du secteur marchand face à une pénurie de ressources
Authors: Bonnet Thomas , Drais Éric
Published: May 2021

Cet article, appuyé sur une enquête ethnographique, rend compte du travail d’encadrement dans le secteur marchand de l’aide à domicile. Interrogeant le travail d’articulation des managers de proximité, il montre comment ce personnel œuvre pour répondre aux différentes tensions qui traversent un milieu caractérisé par une forte demande économique, un haut taux de rotation du personnel et une sinistralité importante. Pris dans certaines logiques contradictoires et injonctions paradoxales, ce personnel encadrant sort régulièrement du cadre. Le cas du système de reconnaissance et de rémunération variable permet d’illustrer cette activité et ses tensions.
La sélection des encadrants de proximité en entreprise. Des signaux comportementaux toujours aussi prépondérants parmi les critères
Authors: Cadet Jean-Paul , Mahlaoui Samira
Published: May 2021

La question de la sélection des encadrants de proximité se pose car l’accès à ces postes se fait surtout par des promotions internes. En outre, ils se complexifient dans des organisations en perpétuel changement. En exploitant des enquêtes en entreprise sur des professions intermédiaires, notre objectif est de mettre au jour et jauger le rôle de trois critères de sélection. D’abord, on observe une attention au niveau de diplôme des salariés, mais elle se révèle loin d’être décisive. Ensuite, on considère toujours les promus comme étant efficaces à leur poste et surtout aptes a priori à encadrer. Mais là aussi cette appréciation n’a rien de décisif. De fait, on continue en priorité à tenir compte de signaux comportementaux traduisant la propension des salariés à agir déjà comme des managers.
E-Learning During Pandemic Covid-19 Era: Drill Versus Conventional Models
Authors: Jana Padrul , Nurchasanah Nurchasanah , 'Adna Syita Fatih
Published: May 2021

Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been stated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a pandemic. As a consequence, all teaching and learning processes have been conducted through e-learning. For that reason, this research aims at testing the computer-based drill learning and the conventional learning model through e-learning. The aspect that would be measured is the students’ mathematical reflecting thinking. The research method was the quasi-experimental by employing the pre-test, before the treatment, and the post-test after the treat-ment. The research design employs 2 classes, the 31 students of the control class and 30 ones of experiment class. The result reveals to us that a computer-based drilling learning model would be effective if it is viewed from the perspective of students’ mathematical reflective thinking ability. On the other hand, the conven-tional learning model would not be effectively viewed from the perspective of students’ mathematical reflective thinking.
Assessing the Soft Skills of IT Professionals
Authors: Moreira de Araújo Sílvia Diana , Melo Pedro Novo
Published: May 2021

This research aims to assess the soft skills of information technology professionals in the information and communication technologies sector. The research method used was a combination of qualitative techniques to survey data about the most valued skills. As major results of this research, the following skills stand out: teamwork, problem solving, organization, leadership, communication skills, dynamism, initiative, autonomy, motivation, creativity, time management, attitude, responsibility, and proactivity. Based on collected data, a cross-cutting skills framework was constructed for five functional areas: trainee, junior consultant, consultant, senior consultant, and business development consultant. It was found that skills are transversal to all functions, and only the indicators vary in relation to the categories.
The Simulation of Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene Cryogenic Pipeline Stress-Strain State
Authors: Karyakina Ekaterina , Shammazov Ildar , Voronov Vladimir , Shalygin Aleksey
Published: May 2021

At present the production of polymer materials is developing intensively, new materials, comparable with steels in their strength properties have recently appeared. In this connection, the analysis of polymer materials applied in the pipe industry has been carried out, and the use of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) is proposed as a structural pipeline material, allowing pipes to operate at cryogenic temperatures. The focal point of the article is the consideration of the fracture mechanisms of those materials and the nature of the change in the mechanical properties of UHMWPE under cryogenic temperatures, also taking into account the creep process. The expression for determining the value of the creep modulus depending on the temperature and operating time was obtained. A method is proposed for conducting initial strength estimation. Moreover, the computer model of stress-strain state of an underground cryogenic polymer pipeline for liquefied natural gas transportation is obtained. The results of simulation depict the potential possibility of using of UHMWPE for the cryogenic pipeline construction
Method of Forming Microchannels on the Surface of a Glass Substrate
Authors: Bessmeltsev Victor , Katasonov Denis , Goloshevsky Nikolay , Baev Sergey
Published: May 2021

A method of forming arbitrarily shaped microchannels on substrates of brittle dielectric materials, such as optical glasses and optical crystals, is considered. This method makes it possible to ensure the identity of microchannel edges over the entire perimeter
Using of AlN Aluminum Matrix Composite in Offshore Wind Turbine
Authors: Zobov V.A. , Chernousov D.A.
Published: May 2021

At present, in connection with the implementation of the sustainable development program, the use of wind farms is increasing every year. Their low pollution of the atmosphere, land, and waters leads to their widespread distribution. The greatest pollution is the process of recycling wind turbines and their parts (blades, housings, etc.) since the main materials used in them are plastic and fiberglass, which are difficult or not at all recyclable. In this regard, the issue of increasing the life cycle of wind turbines is acute. In this article, the possibility of using AlN composite is considered. The main purpose of this article is to study the possibility of using AlN reinforced Al matrix composites to replace the currently used construction aluminum alloys. The main methodologies are theoretical research, analysis of domestic and foreign publications related to the topic, as well as an experiment. The result of this study is the conclusion about the impossibility of using this composite material, due to its low corrosion properties.
Spatial distribution of pingos in the Tuktoyaktuk coastlands and adjacent areas, Northwest Territories
Authors: Wolfe S A , Morse P D , Behnia P
Published: May 2021

This Open File contains a database of 2363 pingos in the Tukoyaktuk Coastlands and adjacent areas of the western Arctic, Northwest Territories, Canada. Pingos were identified through an iterative process using HRDEM and satellite imagery from Google Earth Pro and
ArcGIS EarthTM. The resulting database was compared against Smith and Duong's (2012) digital rendering of 1288 pingos from Mackay's (1963) original compilation and relative precision of geo-positioning from both datasets and validation of pingos identified in this study was assessed. Shapefiles
include the geographic coordinates and elevations at the summit of identified pingos derived from the HRDEM. A separate dataset of 456 pingo-like features, representing those features initially identified but subsequently rejected as pingos is also included.
Cardiac Remodeling after Surgical Mitral Valvuloplasty for Barlow's Disease
Authors: Esposito Nicolino , Polito Maria Vincenza , Mattiello Giacomo , Galderisi Maurizio
Published: May 2021

We present the case of a 48-year-old man referred for a reduced exercise tolerance in whom a bileaflet mitral prolapse (Barlow's disease), associated with flail motion of posterior mitral leaflet and ruptured chordae tendineae and complicated by eccentric severe regurgitation, was incidentally diagnosed. Albeit paucisymptomatic, at echocardiography he showed the signs of LV dysfunction and, accordingly, was underwent surgical mitral valvuloplasty with implantation of the Memo 3D ReChord Ring without complications. We analyzed the changes of echocardiographic parameters of cardiac remodeling from baseline to post operative setting, highlighting the utility of modern imaging tools (strain and myocardial work) in grade to gauge with more sensitivity LV deformation and function in different conditions of pre and afterload and to overcome the limits of ancient ejection fraction. In conclusion, especially LV myocardial work may be a promising and accurate non load dipendent tool to quantify subclinical LV dysfunction, to guide therapeutic decisions and in post-surgical follow up.
Syncope and Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Serra Virginia , De Luca Francesco , Savino Ketty , Pinto Maurizio Del , Castellani Claudia , Fiaschini Paola , Tomasello Laura , Cavallini Claudio
Published: May 2021

Primary cardiac lymphoma (PCL) is among the rarest heart neoplasms. Its estimated incidence is about 1%–2% among primary cardiac tumor and 0.5% of extranodal lymphoma. It usually causes heart failure, pericardial effusion, tamponade, and arrhythmias. Prognosis is poor; treatment is combined medical and surgical. We described the case of a 62-year-old male with PLC that presented with syncope and cardiac tamponade, submitted to R-CHOP therapy because of failure of surgery. Clinical state is stable 3 months after diagnosis and first chemotherapy cycle.
Two-Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography Assessment of the Major Aortic Annulus Diameter in Patients Undergoing Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement
Authors: Librera Mariateresa , Carlomagno Guido , Paolillo Stefania , Romano Maurizio , Antonini-Canterin Francesco , D'Alto Michele , De Martino Giuseppe , Briguori Carlo
Published: May 2021

Background:

Multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) is the gold standard in annulus sizing before transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). However, MDCT has limited applicability in specific subgroups of patients, such as those with atrial fibrillation and chronic kidney disease. Two-dimensional transesophageal echocardiography (2DTEE) has traditionally been limited to the long-axis measurement of the anteroposterior diameter of the aortic annulus. We describe a new 2DTEE approach for the measurement of the major diameter of the aortic annulus.

Methods:

Seventy-six patients with symptomatic severe aortic valve stenosis and high surgical risk underwent MDCT and 2DTEE before TAVR. A modified five-chamber view was used to measure the major aortic annulus diameter. This was obtained starting from a mid-esophageal four chamber and retracting the TEE probe up until the left ventricular outflow tract and the left and noncoronary aortic cusps were visualized: major aortic annulus diameter was measured as the distance between their insertion points in systole.

Results:

Major aortic annulus diameters measured at 2DTEE showed good correlation with MDCT diameter (r = 0.79; P < 0.001) and perimeter (r = 0.87; P < 0.0001). Using factsheet-derived sizing criteria, 2DTEE alone would have allowed accurate sizing in 75% of patients, with 21% of oversizing predominantly with smaller annuli.

Conclusions:

We describe a new method for 2DTEE measurement of the major aortic annulus diameter; this approach is simple, correlates with MDCT, and allows adequate TAVR sizing in most patients. These findings may help in the assessment of patients with contraindications to or inadequate MDCT images.
Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease from Infancy to Older Age
Authors: Benini Annachiara , Benfari Giovanni , Pilati Mara , Luciani Giovanni Battista , Ribichini Flavio Luciano , Prioli Maria Antonia
Published: May 2021

Aim:

Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is the most common congenital heart defect, with considerable risk of morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the study was to analyze clinical and echocardiographic presentation of BAV in a large-volume tertiary Italian center and to test their interaction with full age span, sex, and first diagnosis versus second referral.

Methods:

Consecutive patients of all ages diagnosed with BAV at our center from January 1988 to December 2012 were retrospectively included. Exclusion criteria were as follows: associated complex congenital cardiac disease, systemic syndrome, and previous cardiac surgery.

Results:

Eligible patients were 790, divided by age quartiles. Seventy-two percent of patients had any grade BAV dysfunction. Aortic valve stenosis was more frequent in the first (24%) and fourth (24%) quartiles. This corresponds to a double-peak stenosis severity curve, being more severe at a very young age and in the elderly. Aortic valve regurgitation was more prevalent in each quartile than stenosis, with a prevalence of 72% in the second quartile and 77% in the third quartile. This corresponds to a single-peak regurgitation severity curve, being more severe in the fourth and fifth decades of life. Patients with previously diagnosed BAV had more significant valve dysfunction in comparison to patients with first diagnosis of BAV, either stenosis (15% vs. 21%, P = 0.024) or regurgitation (58% vs. 68%, P = 0.006).

Conclusion:

The dominant BAV dysfunction in this large Northern Italian community is regurgitation, with higher severity of disease in the fourth and fifth decades of life.
COVID-19-Related Pericarditis with Pericardial Clotting as a Hallmark
Authors: Parato Vito Maurizio , Notaristefani Camilla , D'Agostino Simone , D'Emilio Vittorio , Colella Sara , Kadiyala Madhavi , Pierantozzi Silvia , Principi Tiziana
Published: May 2021

The prevalence of pericardial effusion and its clinical significance is not well understood in COVID-19 patients. We report two cases of COVID-19-related pericardial effusion complicated by intrapericardial clot formation. The final outcome was favorable, but intrapericardial clot remained mostly unchanged at 6-month follow-up. The treatment approach and the long-term consequences are still unclear. We propose a review of this particular cardiovascular complication in COVID-19 patients.
Severe Aortic Regurgitation of Early Degenerated Mitroflow Bioprosthesis
Authors: Pernigo Matteo , Triggiani Marco , Adamo Marianna , Pasini Gian Franco
Published: May 2021

Valve-in-Valve transcatheter aortic valve implantation (ViV TAVI) is emerging as an effective therapeutic option for bioprosthetic valve failure. Recently, concern has been raised for early valve deterioration of Mitroflow (Sorin) aortic bioprosthesis, with the development of prevalent stenosis. We report cases of pure severe aortic regurgitation (AR) due to early and mid-term prosthesis degeneration. From June 2018 to October 2019, three patients were treated in our division for the new appearance of severe intraprosthetic regurgitation. Patient 1 (man, 85-year-old) and patient 3 (woman, 83-year-old) had a Mitroflow n. 25 and n. 21 implanted, respectively, in 2012 and 2013 for severe aortic stenosis. Patient 2, a 67-year-old woman with Marfan syndrome underwent a Mitroflow n. 25 implant in 2008 for severe AR and presented chronic type-B aortic dissection. Patient 1 was diagnosed with severe AR in the ambulatory setting, while the other patients presented acute heart failure, requiring inotrope support and high doses intravenous diuretics, and in case 3, temporary extracorporeal ultrafiltration. All patients appeared at high surgical risk and were successfully treated with ViV TAVI, through the right axillary artery in patient 2, and through the femoral artery in patients 1 and 3. Results were good at short- and mid-term follow-up. In conclusion, early and midterm bioprosthesis degeneration with the development of severe AR is a possible complication of the Mitroflow aortic valve. ViV TAVI has been confirmed as a safe and effective therapeutic option in our cases.
Can Tei Index Predict High Syntax Score in Patients with Chronic Coronary Syndrome and Normal Left Ventricular Systolic Function?
Authors: Mansour Hazem , Nassar Ahmed Ibrahim , Abdel Rehim Walaa Adel , Roushdy Alaa Mahmoud , Abobakr Mohamed , Zaki Hala Mohamed , Aboubakr El Missiri Ahmed Mohamed
Published: May 2021

Objective:

Some patients who had chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) and were recognized as low risk, however, developed cardiovascular events, whereas others who were categorized as high risk did not develop any cardiovascular events. Invasive coronary angiography is the gold standard tool for the assessment of coronary artery disease (CAD) severity. The SYNTAX score (SS) was recently recognized as an invasive angiographic-guided scoring system used in risk stratification of patients who have more than one-vessel CAD and undergoing revascularization with percutaneous cardiovascular intervention. It has a good predictive value of adverse cardiovascular events. Exploration for unique noninvasive modalities that may help in a better way for risk stratification of CCS patients by predicting the severity of CAD (as reflected by SS) would be of a paramount value. Tei index is a promising modality for that objective, which is a Doppler-derived time interval index that combines both systolic and diastolic cardiac performance.

Methods:

We examined the relationship between the severity of CAD as assessed by the SS and Tei index in 100 patients with CCS and normal left ventricular systolic function.

Results:

All the studied 100 patients had a normal ejection fraction with mean = 58.92 ± 7.88; the mean value of Tei index was 0.84 ± 0.26. There was a statistically significant positive association between Tei index and SS (P = 0.0001); moreover, there was a correlation between left anterior descending (LAD) affection and Tei index (P = 0.0001).The cutoff point of Tei index to detect SS above 22 was >0.93 (with specificity of 86.5% and sensitivity of 42.4%).

Conclusion:

Tei index significantly correlates with SS and LAD affection. Moreover, it is a cheap, radiation-free, noninvasive technique and may be used as a further risk stratification modality beyond others.
Heart Failure in Tetralogy of Fallot due to Associated Hypertrophic Obstructive Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kodliwadmath Ashwin , Shrivastava Yash , Duggal Bhanu , Khanra Dibbendhu , Nanda N.
Published: May 2021

Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) is the most common cyanotic congenital heart disease. Heart failure (HF) in a case of uncomplicated TOF is uncommon but can occur under special circumstances. TOF associated with hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) is a very rare combination of anomalies, and very few cases have been reported in the literature. Here, we report the case of a 2-month-old male infant who presented to us with central cyanosis and features of HF. He was worked up and found to have TOF with HOCM and advised surgical correction. Hence, we propose that HOCM is also one factor which can precipitate HF in a patient of TOF along with the classical causes mentioned in the literature. Furthermore, the left ventricular outflow tract obstruction of HOCM in a patient of TOF has an inverse relation with the degree of cyanosis.
Inter-observer agreement and inter-imaging accuracy in sinus computed tomography scans and panoramic radiography on signs of local dentoalveolar bone loss and periapical radiolucency
Authors: Julkunen-Iivari Anna , Apajalahti Satu , Saat Riste , Heikkinen Anna Maria , Meurman Jukka H. , Toppila-Salmi Sanna
Published: May 2021

Background:

There can be variability between observer's opinions when reading radiographic images.

Aims:

The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate inter-observer agreement and inter-imaging accuracy regarding radiological signs of local dentoalveolar bone loss and apical radiolucency on sinonasal computed tomography (CT) images and Panoramic tomography (PTG) images.

Materials and Methods:

Imaging data of 59 patients with oral maxillofacial or sinonasal diseases were used. Radiological signs of local dentoalveolar bone loss and apical radiolucency were analyzed blinded. Using Cohen's kappa statistic the reproducibility of the findings between the oral radiologist and three other observers were compared. Inter-imaging accuracy was calculated, based on the records by the oral radiologist.

Results:

Inter-observer agreement between the oral radiologist and the three different professionals was from poor (kappa - 0.054) to moderate (kappa 0.455) with PTG and CT scans. Inter-imaging accuracy was moderate (0.565) to very good (0.908).

Conclusions:

This study showed a large diagnostic variation between the oral radiologist and the three professional observers in recording signs of local dentoalveolar bone loss and periapical radiolucency. This finding indicates that before final treatment plan of the patient, multi-professional consultation is recommended. PTG may not be as reliable imaging method as CT.
Can a panoramic radiograph predict the inferior alveolar nerve canal's position, or canal compression, near third molar root apices?
Authors: Cervenka Peter D. , Burkes Jason N. , Steffy Douglas D.
Published: May 2021

Background:

Injury to the inferior alveolar nerve can occur during surgical removal of the mandibular third molars (M3Ms), resulting in numbness of the mandibular teeth, chin, and lower lip. This occurs when the roots of M3M compress the inferior alveolar canal (IAC) against the lingual cortical plate. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) reveals the buccolingual relationship of the IAC and M3M, but the panoramic radiograph (PR) has not been evaluated to determine whether the plane film can reveal this relationship.

Aims:

The aim of the study is to determine whether PR could predict buccal or lingual IAC position or compression near M3M.

Design:

This retrospective study evaluated 200 M3M sites in 42 women and 67 men, aged 17–28 years. Ninety-one bilateral measurements were taken; 98 left and 102 right halves were analyzed.

Methods:

IAC position and degree of compression were interpreted from the CBCT. Utilizing imaging software, 13 different measurements were obtained.

Statistical Analyses:

Fisher's exact test, t-test, principal component analysis, and multivariate analysis were utilized.

Results:

Male and female canal positions significantly differed. Canal position was significantly different comparing partially erupted to erupted and fully bony impacted molars. Lingual canal position, versus buccal, was more frequently associated with moderate-to-severe IAC compression. “Anterior-posterior ramus at the occlusal plane” and “anterior ramus to anterior IAC at the occlusal plane” contributed most to the severity of IAC compression.

Conclusion:

The variables evaluated did not identify a significant relationship. A larger data set is needed to evaluate any role the dimension of the ramus has on IAC compression.
An Institution-Based Cross-Sectional Study on the Prevalence of Diabetic Retinopathy From Kolkata
Authors: Dutta Chowdhury Mita Saha , Bandyopadhyay Sabyasachi , Chakraborty Sisir , Banerjee Prithwijit
Published: May 2021

Background:

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a microvascular complication as a consequence of prolonged hyperglycemia and other risk factors. It is seen in both types of diabetes mellitus (DM) and can lead to progressive vision loss. Many prevalence studies were undertaken in the past, but the eastern part of India was less explored.

Aim:

(1) The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of DR among both types of DM patients in an institution-based population of Kolkata. (2) To compare the clinic-biochemical profiles of patients with and without DR.

Materials and Methods:

From January 2019 to December 2019, 313 patients with a history of DM were screened for DR using slit-lamp bio microscopy with +90D lens after dilating the pupils. Classification of DR was done on the basis of International Clinical classification of DR. Metabolic profile of all participants was noted.

Results:

The overall prevalence of DR was 16.60% (14.37% nonproliferative and 2.23% proliferative). The prevalence was 80% and 15.58% among Type 1 and 2 DM patients, respectively. Diabetic macular edema was observed in 2.54% of cases. Highest prevalence (38.46%) was observed in patients suffering for more than 20 years of DM. The duration of DM was significantly higher among DR patients (9.46 ± 5.23 years vs. 7.34 ± 5.57; P = 0.012). Patients with DR also displayed significantly higher levels of glycated hemoglobin, creatinine, and albumin-creatinine ratio in comparison to the patients without DR.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of DR from an institution of Eastern India is comparable to other institutional studies conducted in the various parts of the country. The prevalence is higher among Type 1 DM patients. Nonproliferative DR is the most common type. Comparatively, DR patients had a longer duration of DM. Glycemic control and renal statuses are poor in DR than non-DR patients.
Sensor-Based Automatic Hand Sanitizer Dispenser
Authors: Suryawanshi Vaibhav Rajendra , Surani Hiral Chatur , Yadav Hariram Ramashray
Published: May 2021

Hand sanitization is the most useful way to prevent the spread of disease-causing microorganisms. Traditionally, to sanitize and clean our hands, we are using soaps and manual hand soap dispenser. Nowadays, due to advancement in the technology, we have optimized the health-care equipment. Currently used modern equipments are very complex and expensive. This research paper proposes the idea of fully automated sensor-based controlled sanitizer dispenser. This research paper advocates radically different approaches: we aim to fully automate the current technique using alternate components for system, thereby reducing the cost of the product. Our designed automated dispenser can be commercially used to develop a good sanitization approach toward a community. The main advantage of this design is that we could design a number of automated dispensers within a small period of time using basic components in a very fewer budget.
Challenges to New Undergraduate Medical Curriculum Due to COVID-19 Pandemic and Possible Solution in India
Authors: Kaushik Ankit , Jaiswal Anamika , Singh A. K. , Rizvi Ghazala
Published: May 2021

As the Medical Council of India (MCI) implemented a new undergraduate curriculum from this academic session onward, the aim was to replace knowledge-centric traditional educational model to a more holistic community-based curriculum based on the domains such as knowledge, skills with emphasis on attitude, communication, and ethics. This implementation requires major reforms in the form of faculty development and resource generation for successful implementation of new course. However, COVID-19 pandemic possesses serious challenges to the implementation of curriculum and its success. This review discusses the possible challenges for the implementation of the new MCI curriculum in face of the coronavirus pandemic and possible strategies to counter it.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Evidence-Based Practice Among Health-Care Professionals
Authors: Rajpal Deepali , Lal Manu Mathew , Vyas Varsha , Vardhan Vikram , Gehdoo R. P. , Patil Surekha
Published: May 2021

Objective:

To study knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of evidence-based practice (EBP) among health-care professionals (HCPs).

Materials and Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, a pre-tested questionnaire regarding KAP related to EBP was administered to HCPs. The responses were compared based on level of education, work profile and years of experience.

Results:

Out of 93 HCPs (47.31% male), 64 (68.82%) were Doctor of Medicine or Master of Surgery and 63 (69.23%) were in clinical practice. Thirteen (14%) had experience of <5 years. Eighty seven (93.55%) HCPs were aware about the term “EBP.” Fifty-three (56.99%) were aware about core elements of EBP with significant difference in responses based on level of education (P < 0.0001). Sixty-two (66.67%) had understanding regarding usage of research findings in clinical practice with significant difference based on the level of education (P = 0.003586). Forty-five (48.39%) reported having discussions at workplace about EBP with significant difference based on level of education (P = 0.03991). Seventy-one (76.34%) HCPs responded that they ask patients about their preferences and consider them in decision-making. Eighty-two (88.17%) HCPs showed interest in improving knowledge of EBP with significant difference based on the highest level of education (P = 0.04043).

Conclusion:

In the studied population, awareness about the term “EBP” was good. There is further scope for improvement in literature search, understanding core elements of EBP, critical analysis of research findings, statistics, and knowledge to implement EBP. Most of the study population showed interest in improving knowledge about EBP.
Peer-Assisted Learning Versus Faculty Led Learning in Procedural Skill Acquisition Utilizing Skills Laboratory
Authors: George Kalpana , Rahim Asma , Moorkoth Anitha Puduvail , Pangat Balakrishnan Shabina Methele
Published: May 2021

Background:

The aims of this study were to compare the outcomes of faculty led learning with peer assisted learning in acquiring procedural skills and to analyze perceptions on the learning experience of both groups so that feasibility of adopting peer teaching can be considered in the skills laboratory.

Methods:

Medical students from 4th semester were divided into two groups – A - Individual learners and B - peer tutored students. Group A was taught bladder catheterization by faculty. Six volunteers were chosen as peer teachers, trained by faculty to perform and teach the procedure. Each peer teacher was assessed for training skills. Five to six students were then assigned to each peer teacher. At the end of the study period, each student was assessed for skills acquired by objective structured practical examination. Feedback from students on perceptions of their learning experience was collected using validated feedback instrument.

Results:

Fifty-seven students excluding peer teachers were assessed–30 in Group A and 27 in Group B. Mean competency scores of Group B was higher than those of Group A (P < 0.012). Median scores of perceptions on overall skill development, teacher contribution, and student satisfaction were not different between the groups.

Conclusion:

This study has demonstrated that peer teaching can be an effective and feasible tool to teach basic procedural skills to students. Perceptions on the learning experiences of individual and peer led groups in the skills laboratory were not different emphasizing the acceptability of the peer tutor approach.
A Retrospective Clinico-Epidemiological Study of Leprosy Cases Treated at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Western Maharashtra
Authors: Vashisht Deepak , Shankar Prerna , Pathania Vikas , Sharma Surabhi , Sandhu Sunmeet , Venugopal Ruby
Published: May 2021

Background:

Leprosy is a chronic communicable disease caused by Mycobacterium Leprae. Despite the multidrug regimen against this formidable pathogen for nearly four decades, leprosy remains a public health scourge. The World Health Organization has intensified its efforts to eliminate leprosy by launching “Global Leprosy Strategy 2016–2020. Notwithstanding, India had accounted for 60% of new cases globally in 2016.

Aims:

The aim of this study is to describe the clinical and epidemiological spectrum of leprosy patients encountered at a tertiary care center in Western Maharashtra.

Settings and Design:

Record-based, retrospective, descriptive study.

Methods:

Case records of leprosy patients treated at a tertiary care hospital over 10 years were studied. Two hundred and thirteen cases that fulfilled the World Health Organization's 1998 case definition of leprosy and whose case records were replete with a basic demographic, case history, examination, and treatment details were included in the study.

Statistical Analysis:

Data were compiled in MS Excel and analyzed with the SPSS statistical software version 20.

Results:

Majority (87.3%) cases were multibacillary leprosy. A significant number of patients had borderline tuberculoid leprosy (71.5%). Meantime taken for the diagnosis, i.e., time taken from the onset of symptoms to diagnosis was 271.74 days. Contact tracing could be elicited in only 1.4% of cases. A light-colored numb patch was the most common clinical presentation in 79% of patients. 96.7% of patients had peripheral nerve thickening, of which, the ulnar nerve was the most frequently involved (93.5%). Ninety-nine (46.5%) cases had documented leprosy reactions. Grade 2 disability accounted for 23% cases with claw hand as the most common deformity in17.4%.

Conclusions:

The present study provides an insight into disease burden as well as the effectiveness of health services at a tertiary care hospital in Western Maharashtra. The study also highlights the importance of early diagnosis and management of leprosy and reactions, thereby minimizing deformities and disabilities.
Screening before Marriage is Important
Authors: Shukla Vineeta , Mondal Tushar Kanti , Ray Kuntala , Dutta Sinjita , Mandal Murari Mohan , Basu Mausumi
Published: May 2021

Introduction:

Thalassemia is the most common single gene disorder globally and has high burden in India. Education to eligible couples about the risk of conceiving a child with thalassemia is important for its prevention as well as for reducing psychosocial impact on them and improving family health.

Objectives:

To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding thalassemia among eligible couples residing in a slum of Kolkata and to find out the determinants of inadequate knowledge, negative attitude, and bad practice among them.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a slum in Kolkata, from October-December 2019 among 300 study population using a pre designed, pretested structured schedule by face-to-face interview method. All statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS version 16.0 and correlation of variables was seen using Pearson's Chi Square Test and Odds Ratio.

Results:

About 53.33% of the study population had adequate knowledge; 50.33% had positive attitude but only 9.67% had good practice.

Conclusion:

Eligible couples lack adequate knowledge on thalassemia; their attitude was positive but practice was bad. Significant determinants of inadequate knowledge were female gender, level of education and socio-economic status; of negative attitude-religion, level of education and socio-economic status whereas of bad practice – age, level of education and socio-economic status.
A Study of Perceived Stress, Burnout, and Job Satisfaction of Doctors and Nonmedical Staff in a Medical College of West Bengal During COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Chaudhuri Arunima , Paul Suhrita , Mondal Tanushree , Goswami Ayan
Published: May 2021

Background:

The COVID-19 crisis has placed additional pressure on doctors and the health-care system in general, and the research shows that extra pressure brings a greater risk of psychological distress.

Aims:

To study perceived stress levels, burnout, and job satisfaction of doctors and non-medical staff in a medical college of West Bengal during COVID-19 pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

This cross-sectional, observational study was carried out on 105 doctors (Group A) and 64 non-medical staff (Group B) in Burdwan Medical College after taking institutional ethical clearance and informed consent of the subjects. An online semistructured questionnaire was developed, with a consent form attached to it. The specific instruments which were included in the survey were job satisfaction scale, perceived stress scale (PSS), and abbreviated Maslach Burnout Inventory.

Results:

PSS of Group A was 18.68 ± 4.248 and of Group B was 18.625 ± 4.082;P value: 0.931. There was no significant difference in the perceived stress score between the two groups, but perceived stress scores in both groups were significantly higher than average score. Average score is considered as 13. 44% in Group A had PSS 20 or above and 42% in Group B had PSS 20 or above; P = 0.775 and Chi-square 0.0816. Job satisfaction score in Group A was 36.97 ± 6.32 and Group B was 37.81 ± 4.99;P value: 0.346. In Group A, 22.12% had scores between 42 and 50 (indicates very high job satisfaction); 26.92% had scores between 39 and 41 (high job satisfaction); 36.54% had scores between 32 and 38 (average job satisfaction); 7.69% had scores between 27 and 31 (low job satisfaction); and 7.69% had scores between 10 and 26 (very low job satisfaction). In Group B, 31.25% had scores between 42 and 50 (indicates very high job satisfaction); 18.75% had scores between 39 and 41 (high job satisfaction); 37.5% had scores between 32 and 38 (average job satisfaction); and 12.5% had scores between 27 and 31 (low job satisfaction). PSS was negatively correlated with job satisfaction score in both groups with more negative correlation in Group A as compared to Group B (Group A – r value: −0.21069; Group B – r value: −0.08197); satisfaction with medicine scores was 12.96 ± 3.34; depersonalization scores: 5 ± 2.3; personal accomplishment scores: 12.096 ± 3.457; and emotional exhaustion scores: 6.66 ± 3.42.

Conclusions:

Doctors as well as non-medical staff perceived high stress during the COVID-19 pandemic, but they were mostly satisfied with their jobs and burnout scores were not alarming.
Hand Hygiene in Housekeeping Staffs
Authors: Dutta Sinjita , Mishra Ankita , Basu Mausumi
Published: May 2021

Background:

Hand hygiene is the single most important measure for preventing infection. However, this is often insufficiently recognized by the housekeeping staffs, who are not involved in direct patient care but have frequent contact with the patient's environment. This could lead to increase in transmission of nosocomial infections.

Objectives:

The objectives of this study were to analyze the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding hand hygiene among housekeeping staffs of a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive type of observational study with cross-sectional design was conducted on 260 housekeeping staffs of a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata in 2019 using a predesigned, pretested, and structured schedule. The statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Office Excel 2007 (Microsoft Corp., Redmond, WA, USA) and Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25.0.

Results:

83.5% and 60.4% of the study population had satisfactory attitude and practice regarding hand hygiene, respectively, but only 37.3% had a satisfactory knowledge. Working in pediatrics and OBG departments had statistically significant odds of satisfactory knowledge (P < 0.05). Female gender and working in surgical/medical departments showed statistically significant odds (P < 0.05) of having positive attitude. Experience of ≤5 years in this work and receiving training had a positive association with good practice of hand hygiene.

Conclusion:

The overall low scores on the knowledge items indicate that these staffs require continuous in-house training on hand hygiene throughout their employment.
Mycoplasma genitalium Antibody among Infertile Women in Kano, Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Bakori Hafsat Sagir , Idris Abdulrazak Muhammad , Kumurya Abdulhadi Sale
Published: May 2021

Background:

Infertility is an emerging health problem in many countries of the world including Nigeria. In many instances of asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic infection in women with infertility, it is difficult to find the etiological cause. Mycoplasma genitalium can be a cause of such asymptomatic infections and easily overlooked by clinicians. These bacteria can cause pelvic inflammatory disease leading to infertility. The seroprevalence of M. genitalium among infertile women will help in determining the extent of infection and define the medical attention it deserves.

Objective:

The study aimed to determine the seroprevalence of M. genitalium among women with infertility in Kano metropolis.

Materials and Methods:

About 2 mL of blood samples was collected from 59 infertile women attending infertility clinics and 31 pregnant women attending antenatal clinics (as controls) at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. ELISA kit (Sunlog Biotech, M. genitalium) was used to detect the presence of M. genitalium antibody (MG-IgG).

Results:

Most of the participants in both groups found to have positive M. genitalium-IgG, with 50 (84.7%) among infertile women and 28 (90.3%) among fertile women. Among all the possible risk factors observed, only vaginal discharge was found to have a statistically significant relationship with the presence of M. genitalium-IgG (P = 0.0356).

Conclusion:

The study observed that M. genitalium has no significant association with infertility in Kano because the observed prevalence in the control group is a little bit higher than that of the study participants. The high prevalence of M. genitalium-IgG obtained among infertile and fertile women strongly suggests that they are not always associated with symptoms, thus supporting the need for screening among women of reproductive age.
Effects of Combining Core Muscle Activation with Treadmill Walk on Endurance of Trunk Muscles
Authors: Olowe Olajide Olubanji , Sokunbi Ganiyu Oluwaleke , Okafor Udoka Chris A , Amusa Adewale Musibau
Published: May 2021

Background:

Abdominal bracing is one of the most effective techniques for core muscle training, which if combined with treadmill walk (TW) could provide trunk muscle endurance Trunk muscle endurance, despite being observed as an important factor and a huge component of core spinal stability, especially in holding up the spine during prolonged functional activity, prevention and rehabilitation of lumbar mechanical problems and performance enhancer in sports, the impacts of combining core muscle activation with TW exercises on trunk muscle endurance has not be succinctly investigated.

Aims:

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of combining abdominal bracing with TW on trunk muscles endurance.

Materials and Methods:

Eighteen apparently healthy young adults were randomized into three groups (TW without abdominal bracing, TW combined with abdominal bracing and control). McGill endurance test measures were carried out at baseline and after 6 weeks of intervention. All participants followed the assigned intervention protocols.

Results:

One way analysis of variance did not show a significant between-group difference in the postintervention endurance of trunk muscle among the three groups (P > 0.05). In the TW combined with the abdominal bracing group, paired-t test showed significant within-group difference in the form of an increase in the holding times (endurance) for the right lateral flexors (t = −3.758, P = 0.013), left lateral flexors (t = −4.096, P = 0.005), and extensors (t = −2.441, P = 0.050).

Conclusion:

Combining abdominal bracing with TW can be used to improve trunk muscle function through facilitation of trunk muscle endurance.
Herpes Zoster-An Indicator of a Hidden COVID-19 Infection-A Case Series
Authors: Altaf Irfan
Published: May 2021

Clinical presentation of COVID-19 infection can be variable in current pandemic even in patients presenting to the clinic with mild history of upper respiratory complaints. Various cutaneous manifestations have been noticed in COVID-19 patients with herpes zoster (HZ) being one among them. HZ is an infection that results that results when varicella-zoster virus reactivates from its latent state in a posterior dorsal root ganglion. Here, we aim to expand our knowledge by reporting three cases of associated zoster infection in COVID-19 patients admitted to our intensive care unit in view of respiratory complaints. All the three patients admitted had revealed lymphocytopenia at the time of HZ diagnosis and were managed conservatively throughout the course. In all the cases, acyclovir/valaciclovir led to the resolution of lesions in 10 days. No postherpetic sequelae were observed. We hereby suggest that the clinical presentation of HZ at the time of the current pandemic should be considered as an alarming sign for a latent subclinical SARS CoV2 infection and thorough follow-up of such patients be adopted.
Acute onset of deep calcareous degeneration treated with keratoplasty procedures
Authors: Ou You-Ci , Hu Chao-Chien
Published: May 2021

There are two types of corneal calcium deposition, one is calcific band keratopathy and another is calcareous degeneration. We report two cases of acute onset of calcareous degeneration after using topical eye drops for their corneal wounds. The calcification in both the cases developed within 1 month. Due to the deeper stromal opacity, calcareous degeneration was impressed. In our cases, the deposits were too deep that they required keratoplasty procedures as better treatment options. One of the cases was treated with penetrating keratoplasty and another case was treated with deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty. Both of our cases had stable corneal grafts, and there were no ocular inflammation and no recurrence of calcification at least for 6 months.
Partial retraction of “Two-term, asymptotically sharp estimates for eigenvalue means of the Laplacian”
Authors: Harrell II Evans M. , Stubbe Joachim
Published: May 2021

We regret that we have to retract portions of the article “Two-term, asymptotically sharp estimates for eigenvalue means of the Laplacian” [J. Spectral Theory 8 (2018), 1529–1550] due to an essential error in the proof of Theorem 1.2, which is used in other places in the paper.
Inflammatory cytokines gene expression in bone tissue from patients with chronic rhinosinusitis- a preliminary study
Authors: Tuszynska A. , Krzeski A. , Postuba M. , Paczek L. , Wyczalkowska-Tomasik A. , Gornicka B. , Pykalo R.
Published: May 2021

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether mucosal inflammation has an effect on the bone under the mucosa in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was evaluation of inflammatory cytokines genes expression in bone tissue taken from the patients who had undergone endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS. METHODS: A total group of a consecutive 49 patients with diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis based on EPOS 2007 criteria undergoing endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS were enrolled in the study. Based on histopathologic findings of the mucosal and bone tissues we evaluated the rate of inflammation. Expression of target genes: interleukin 1β (IL1β), interleukin 6 (IL6), interleukin 11 (IL11), tumor growth factor β (TGF β) and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF α) were analysed by real-time PCR method in samples of the ethmoid bone taken during endoscopic sinus surgery for CRS. RESULTS: Based on histopathological findings in the studied population we found symptoms of osteitis in 5 patients. In the studied population we found significant differences between patients with osteitis and without osteitis with respect to IL6 gene expression in bone tissue (p=0.0003), IL11 gene expression (p=0.02) and TNFα gene expression in bone tissue (p=0.0035). CONCLUSION: In our study we have demonstrated that in some patients with CRS and coexisting symptoms of osteitis some inflammatory markers genes expression are increased in this population.