bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic costs of invasive alien species in Mexico
Authors: Rico-Sánchez Axel Eduardo , Haubrock Phillip J. , Cuthbert Ross N. , Angulo Elena , Ballesteros-Mejia Liliana , López-López Eugenia , Duboscq-Carra Virginia G. , Nuñez Martín A. , Diagne Christophe , Courchamp Franck
Published: July 2021

Invasive alien species (IAS) are a leading driver of biodiversity loss worldwide, and have negative impacts on human societies. In most countries, available data on monetary costs of IAS are scarce, while being crucial for developing efficient management. In this study, we use available data collected from the first global assessment of economic costs of IAS (InvaCost) to quantify and describe the economic cost of invasions in Mexico. This description was made across a range of taxonomic, sectoral and temporal variables, and allowed us to identify knowledge gaps within these areas. Overall, costs of invasions in Mexico were estimated at US$ 5.33 billion (i.e., 109) ($MXN 100.84 billion) during the period from 1992 to 2019. Biological invasion costs were split relatively evenly between aquatic (US$ 1.16 billion; $MXN 21.95 billion) and terrestrial (US$ 1.17 billion; $MXN 22.14 billion) invaders, but semi-aquatic taxa dominated (US$ 2.99 billion; $MXN 56.57 billion), with costs from damages to resources four times higher than those from management of IAS (US$ 4.29 billion vs. US$ 1.04 billion; $MXN 81.17 billion vs $MXN 19.68 billion). The agriculture sector incurred the highest costs (US$ 1.01 billion; $MXN 19.1 billion), followed by fisheries (US$ 517.24 million; $MXN 9.79 billion), whilst most other costs simultaneously impacted mixed or unspecified sectors. When defined, costs to Mexican natural protected areas were mostly associated with management actions in terrestrial environments, and were incurred through official authorities via monitoring, control or eradication. On natural protected islands, mainly mammals were managed (i.e. rodents, cats and goats), to a total of US$ 3.99 million, while feral cows, fishes and plants were mostly managed in protected mainland areas, amounting to US$ 1.11 million in total.Pterygoplichthyssp. andEichhornia crassipescaused the greatest reported costs in unprotected aquatic ecosystems in Mexico, andBemisia tabacito terrestrial systems. Although reported damages from invasions appeared to be fluctuating through time in Mexico, management spending has been increasing. These estimates, albeit conservative, underline the monetary pressure that invasions put on the Mexican economy, calling for urgent actions alongside comprehensive cost reporting in national states such as Mexico.
Manual of North American Agromyzidae (Diptera, Schizophora), with revision of the fauna of the “Delmarva” states
Authors: Lonsdale Owen
Published: July 2021

Тhe agromyzid (Diptera: Schizophora: Agromyzidae) fauna of America north of Mexico is described in the first part of this publication, including a genus key and discussions on morphology, life history and classification. The second part is a species-level revision of the family in the “Delmarva” states of the United States of America, that is, of the District of Columbia and the surrounding states of Delaware, Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia. The fauna of this region includes 156 species.

This study presents 346 new state and provincial records and 23 new country records, two of which are new continental records (Agromyza abiensZetterstedt andA. apfelbeckiStrobl).Liriomyza endiviaeHering is no longer considered to occur in North America. Fifteen species are newly described:Agromyza echinalissp. nov.,Melanagromyza brunkeisp. nov.,M. eoflacensissp. nov.,M. glyptossp. nov.,M. rutellasp. nov.,Ophiomyia capitoliasp. nov.,O. cupreasp. nov.,O. galiodessp. nov.,O. heleiossp. nov.,O. kaliasp. nov.,O. laticolissp. nov., Cerodontha (Poemyza) ungulasp. nov.,Phytomyza avicursasp. nov.,P. catenulasp. nov., andP. winklerisp. nov.Four new species-level synonyms and one genus-level synonym are provided:Agromyza marmorensisSpencersyn. nov.is included as a synonym ofA. aristataMalloch;Melanagromyza fastosaSpencer,syn. nov.is included as a junior synonym ofOphiomyia tiliae(Couden);Melanagromyza verbesinaeSpencer is considered a synonym ofM. vernonianaSteyskal;Phytomyza ranunculoidesSpencer,syn. nov.is included as a junior synonym ofPhytomyza loewiiHendel; the genusLiomycinaEnderlein,syn. nov.is included as a junior synonym ofPhytobiaLioy.Ophiomyia ultima(Spencer),comb. nov.is recombined fromMelanagromyza.Euhexomyza albiculaSpencer,stat. reinst.,comb. nov.is resurrected from synonymy withE. winnemanae(Malloch). New host records are given.
The 'Catastrophic Consciousness of Backwardness': Culture and Dependency Theory in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Niblett Michael
Published: July 2021

This article examines the relationship between economic and cultural dependency. Its analysis is framed by Enrique Dussel's methodological insistence on the international transfer of surplus value as the essence of dependency. Beginning with an examination of the heyday of classical
dependency theory in Latin America and the Caribbean in the 1960s and 1970s, the article moves on to consider the increasing importance accorded culture as a site of power and struggle, focusing on the work of Sylvia Wynter. The second half of the article turns to the literary registration
of dependency. Arguing that literary works can provide a barometric reading of the pressures of underdevelopment in advance of political-economic analyses, I consider Patrícia Galvão's Parque Industrial (1933) and Olive Senior's 'Boxed-In' (2015). Published, respectively,
some forty years either side of the heyday of dependency theory, these paradigmatic fictions are examples of both the diagnostic and active role of literature in responding to the depredations of dependency.
Lipid fingerprinting of yellow mealwormTenebrio molitor by untargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry
Authors: Gowda S. G. B. , Sasaki Y. , Hasegawa E. , Chiba H. , Hui S. P.
Published: July 2021

Insects such asTenebrio molitor have been considered an alternative source of nutrition for animals and have also been adopted as human food throughout history, especially in Asia and Africa. Lipids are the second most abundant component followed by proteins. However, studies focusing on comprehensive lipid composition analsysis of these widely reared species are limited. The untargeted lipidomic analysis of yellow mealworm larvae (T. molitor) led to the identification of several lipid molecular species from lipid classes such as: free fatty acids, sphingolipids, phospholipids, and triacylglycerols. The results revealed that polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (45%) are the most abundant fatty acids, followed by monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) (42%) and saturated fatty acids (13%). Fatty acids such as FA 18:1 and FA 18:2 are the most abundant fatty acids and are substantially enriched in other complex lipids in the form of esters. Moreover, functional lipids such as sphingomyelins, ceramides, cardiolipins, phosphatidylinositols, and phosphatidylethanolamines were characterised for the first time, with a large number of MUFAs and PUFAs as their main acyl chains. Overall, our data showed the occurrence of multiple structurally diverse lipids inT. molitor, suggesting that mealworms are not only enriched with proteins but also have several functional lipids, which are highly beneficial to human and animal health. Thus, the larvae ofT. molitor could serve as a promising candidate for the development of functional food and feed products.
Using Participatory Design to Mitigate Hospital Patient Falls
Authors: Pirzadeh Iman , Embree Jennifer L.
Published: July 2021

Participatory design can involve, empower, and facilitate those stake-holders (health care providers, nurses, professional development experts, patients, and patients' families) who can positively impact patient falls through the design process. Participatory design can help participants identify effective solutions to prevent patient falls and solve other health care problems. This article guides professional development specialists on how to use participatory design to solve health care problems with a focus on fall reduction.

[
J Contin Educ Nurs
. 2021;52(8):359–361.]
New fuzzy-interval inequalities in fuzzy-interval fractional calculus by means of fuzzy order relation
Authors: Khan Muhammad Bilal ,   Department of Mathematics, COMSATS University Islamabad, Islamabad, Pakistan, Mohammed Pshtiwan Othman , Noor Muhammad Aslam , Alsharif Abdullah M. , Noor Khalida Inayat ,   Department of Mathematics, College of Education, University of Sulaimani, Sulaimani, Kurdistan Region, Iraq,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, College of Science, Taif University, P. O. Box 11099, Taif 21944, Saudi Arabia
Published: July 2021

It is well-known that interval analysis provides tools to deal with data uncertainty. In general, interval analysis is typically used to deal with the models whose data are composed of inaccuracies that may occur from certain kinds of measurements. In interval analysis and fuzzy-interval analysis, the inclusion relation (⊆) and fuzzy order relation $\left(\preccurlyeq \right)$ both are two different concepts, respectively. In this article, with the help of fuzzy order relation, we introduce fractional Hermite-Hadamard inequality (HH-inequality) for h-convex fuzzy-interval-valued functions (h-convex-IVFs). Moreover, we also establish a strong relationship between h-convex fuzzy-IVFs and Hermite-Hadamard Fejér inequality (HH-Fejér inequality) via fuzzy Riemann Liouville fractional integral operator. It is also shown that our results include a wide class of new and known inequalities for h-convex fuzz-IVFs and their variant forms as special cases. Nontrivial examples are presented to illustrate the validity of the concept suggested in this review. This paper's techniques and approaches may serve as a springboard for further research in this field.
Many-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm Based on New Fitness Allocation and Multiple Cooperative Strategies
Authors: Yu Weiwei , Zhang Li , Xie Chengwang
Published: July 2021

Many-objective optimization problems (MaOPs) refer to those multi-objective problems (MOPs) withmore than three objectives. In order to solve MaOPs, a multi-objective particle swarm optimization algorithm based on new fitness assignment and multi cooperation strategy(FAMSHMPSO) is proposed. Firstly, this paper proposes a new fitness allocation method based on fuzzy information theory to enhance the convergence of the algorithm. Then a new multi criteria mutation strategy is introduced to disturb the population and improve the diversity of the algorithm. Finally, the external files are maintained by the three-point shortest path method, which improves the quality of the solution. The performance of FAMSHMPSO algorithm is evaluated by evaluating the mean value, standard deviation and IGD+ index of the target value on dtlz test function set of different targets of FAMSHMPSO algorithm and other five representative multi-objective evolutionary algorithms. The experimental results show that FAMSHMPSO algorithm has obvious performance advantages in convergence, diversity and robustness.
An Assessment of the Use of Electronic Databases by Academic Staff, Bowen University, Nigeria
Authors: Adesola Adekunle P. , Ojemola Oladipupo Ibukun
Published: July 2021

The study assessed the use of electronic databases by academic staff of Bowen University, Nigeria. Descriptive analysis including percentage and frequency count was used to analyze the data. From the total population of 500 academic staff, a sample of 75 was taken using the simple random sampling technique. Questionnaire was used as instrument for data collection in this study. The questionnaire used was a closed ended or structured questionnaire divided into two sections. Section A captures the respondents’ bio-data while section B contained the structured items to achieve the research objectives. Five research questions were developed and answered by the study. The results show that majority of academic staff were aware of available e-databases, use it to improve teaching delivery and research output. Challenges encountered include inadequate time and an overwhelming workload. The study concludes by recommending a drastic reduction in workload, increasing bandwidth, hotspots and entrenching customer-friendly policies in the library.
Translation of Activities in a Global Virtual Teams Software Development
Authors: Adelakun Olayele , Iyamu Tiko
Published: July 2021

. This study explores Global Virtual Software Teams’ development practices and try to demystify some of the misconceptions about global software development practices based on findings from the global virtual software teams’ experiment that was carried out at DePaul University from 2011 – 2018. The moments of translation from the perspective of actor-network theory (ANT) was employed in the data analysis, to examine how development approach was selected by the global virtual teams. One of the key findings from our research is that the success of a global software development project does not have a strong dependency on the development approach. While we agree that it is one of the key influencing factors, there are other equally strong factors for global virtual software team’s success.
A Metaheuristic Approach for Tetrolet-Based Medical Image Compression
Authors: Saravanan S.  , Juliet Sujitha
Published: July 2021

Over recent times, medical imaging plays a significant role in clinical practices. Storing and transferring the huge volume of images becomes complicated without an efficient image compression technique. This paper proposes a compression algorithm that uses a Haar based wavelet transform called Tetrolet transform, which reduces the noise on the input images and decomposes with a 4 x 4 blocks of equal squares called tetrominoes. It opts for a decomposing using optimal scheme for achieving the input image into a sparse representation which gives a much-detailed performance for texture and edge information better than wavelet transform. Set Partitioning in Hierarchical Trees (SPIHT) is used for encoding the significant coefficients to achieve efficient image compression. It has been investigated with various metaheuristic algorithms. Experimental results prove that the proposed method outperforms the other transform-based compression in terms of PSNR, CR, and Complexity. Also, the proposed method shows an improved result with another state of work.
An Empirical Study of Perception of the End-User on the Acceptance of Smart Government Service in the UAE
Authors: Almuraqab Nasser A. Saif , Jasimuddin Sajjad M. , Mansoor Wathiq
Published: July 2021

The end-users’ acceptance of electronic government applications is crucial for the effective delivery of public services. This study intends to investigate the factors that influence the end-users' acceptance of smart-government services.This paper identifies key determinants of the end-users’ acceptance of smart government services in the UAE to develop a theoretical model which is tested empirically, using the partial least squares structural equation modelling. This study examines the relationship among the factors that influence the adoption of smart government applications, along with the moderation effects of gender, age, and experience of the end-users on this linkage. The paper reveals that performance expectancy is the strongest factor influencing adoption of smart government, followed by trust in government, effort expectancy, and social influence. The Multi Group Analysis is used to test the moderation effects of the gender, age, and smart service use experience of the end-users on the relationship between the factors that influence smart-government service adoption.
The Effects of Review Presentation Formats on Consumers' Purchase Intention
Authors: Li Cong , Liu Yuming , Du Rong
Published: July 2021

Perception of products has becoming one of the most important factors influencing consumers’ purchase intention in the context of online shopping. Thus, enriching and studying review presentation formats have been significant things for practitioners and researchers. This study employed dual coding theory and telepresence theory to investigate the effects of review presentation formats (text-based reviews, image-based reviews and video-based reviews) on consumers’ purchase intention, and then analysed the moderation effect of product type. The 3×2 between-subject situational experiment and 3×2 within-subject eye-tracking experiment design were separately applied to test the hypotheses. The results manifested that review presentation formats exactly could generate different impacts on consumers’ purchase intentions. And product type moderated the impact of presentation formats on purchase intentions. Hence, this research considered online vendors should pay more attention to image-based and video-based reviews, moreover take the product type into account.
An Action Research on a French Law Firm
Authors: Feng Min , Bourazzouq Driss
Published: July 2021

This study qualitatively analyzes interactional coping strategies used to managed technostress in the post-adoption stage of information technology implementation at a French legal firm. The nine strategies are participatory, collaborative, conflict resolution, bureaucratic coping (adaptation), perceived contribution to exchange, loyalty, affect, professional respect, and mutual trust. A critical perspective was applied to a longitudinal study of the intervention process. First, a problem with task distribution at the individual level affected the efficacy of perceived contribution strategies to exchange and professional enhancement. Second, a lack of creative interaction between group level colleagues undermined strategies of collaboration, mutual aid and assistance, participatory adaptation, and mutual trust. Third, a lack of digitalization commitment at the organizational level negatively affected conflict resolution and bureaucratic adjustment. Finally, an absence of loyalty and affect strategies was evident.
Preclinical Mechanisms of Topical PRN473, a Bruton Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor, in Immune-Mediated Skin Disease Models
Authors: Xing Yan , Chu Katherine A , Wadhwa Jyoti , Chen Wei , Zhu Jiang , Bradshaw J Michael , Shu Jin , Foulke Matthew C , Loewenstein Natalie , Nunn Philip , By Kolbot , Phiasivongsa Pasit , Goldstein David M , Langrish Claire L
Published: July 2021

The expression of Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) in B cells and innate immune cells provides essential downstream signaling for BCR, Fc receptors, and other innate immune cell pathways. The topical covalent BTK inhibitor PRN473 has shown durable, reversible BTK occupancy with rapid on-rate and slow off-rate binding kinetics and long residence time, resulting in prolonged, localized efficacy with low systemic exposure in vivo. Mechanisms of PRN473 include inhibition of IgE (FcεR)–mediated activation of mast cells and basophils, IgG (FcγR)–mediated activation of monocytes, and neutrophil migration. In vivo, oral PRN473 was efficacious and well tolerated in the treatment of canine pemphigus foliaceus. In this study, we evaluated in vitro selectivity and functionality, in vivo skin Ab inflammatory responses, and systemic pharmacology with topically administered PRN473. Significant dose-dependent inhibition of IgG-mediated passive Arthus reaction in rats was observed with topical PRN473 and was maintained when given 16 h prior to challenge, reinforcing extended activity with once-daily administration. Similarly, topical PRN473 resulted in significant dose-dependent inhibition of the mouse passive cutaneous anaphylaxis IgE-mediated reaction. Multiday treatment with topical PRN473 in rodents resulted in low-to-no systemic accumulation, suggesting that efficacy was mainly due to localized exposure. Reduced skin Ab inflammatory activity was also confirmed with oral PRN473. These preclinical studies provide a strong biologic basis for targeting innate immune cell responses locally in the skin, with rapid onset of action following once-daily topical PRN473 administration and minimal systemic exposure. Dose-dependent inhibition in these preclinical models of immune-mediated skin diseases support future clinical studies.
Mycobacterium Kansasii infection in a psoriasis patient treated with adalimumab and switch to apremilast: first report and literature review
Authors: Brunasso Alexandra Maria Giovanna , Javor Sanja , Pontali Emanuele , Sola Simona , Massone Cesare
Published: July 2021

Patient under anti-TNF-alpha treatment have an increased risk of mycobacterial infections, particularly tuberculosis. Only four case reports of Mycobacterium kansasii infection under anti-TNF-α treatment (two with etanercept, two with infliximab) have been reported, but none under adalimumab. A 72-year-old man treated with adalimumab for psoriasis vulgaris and arthropathic psoriasis, complained on nocturnal cough, occasional hemoptysis and the new onset of ill-defined, reddish, asymptomatic persistent plaquesnodules covered by serum crusts on his back, on the dorsum of the right hand and right middle finger. Routine laboratory investigations, HIV and TB screening (QuantiFERONTB- Gold test) were all within normal limits. A skin biopsy was inconclusive and special stainings resulted negative for microorganisms. Only PCR identified M. kansasii. The patient stopped adalimumab and started anti-TB treatment with gradual improvement of the skin lesions. At 26 months follow-up visit no signs or symptoms of relapse of M. kansasii disease occurred.
Skin-limited Langerhans cell histiocytosis in an adult: a case report
Authors: Guobytė Neringa , Šerpytienė Emilija , Macejevska Monika , Krivickaitė Milda , Grigaitienė Jūratė
Published: July 2021

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is an idiopathic group of disorders characterized histologically by proliferation and infiltration of tissue by Langerhans cell-type histiocytes. This disease can affect various organs. Patients with single system lesion should be followed carefully. Detection of somatic BRAF-V600E mutation in circulating blood cells or in lesional biopsies has been associated with high-risk clinical characteristics. A 38-year old male presented to our Dermatology Centre with a 3 months history of small nodule on his right leg skin. Surgery to remove the lesion was performed. The diagnosis of skin-limited Langerhans cell histiocytosis was established. Due to possible systemic spread the patient was referred to a haematologist for further evaluation. Full body CT scan did not show any infiltrates in other organs. Bone marrow aspirate and biopsy was performed, no Langerhans cells were detected. Sometimes skin lesions may represent the most clinically evident manifestation of potentially life-threatening multisystem disease.
Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Children and Adolescents with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia
Authors: Hashemi Dehkordi Elham , Khaheshi Sara , Mostofizadeh Neda , Hashemipour Mahin
Published: July 2021

Background:

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by impaired steroidogenesis. Glucocorticoid treatment with increased androgens may lead to cardiovascular and metabolic effects in these patients. In this study, we investigated the relationship between cardiovascular risk factors and androgen levels in children and adolescents with CAH due to 21 hydroxylase deficiency.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study of 78 patients (37 boys and 41 girls) with CAH aged 3–17 years. Anthropometric, body mass index (BMI), systolic (SBP), and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure were measured. Fasting blood glucose with plasma insulin and lipids were measured, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) calculated using the homeostasis assessment model. Furthermore, testosterone, Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and 17-Hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) were investigated.

Results:

The mean SBP and DBP were 112.01 ± 19.13 and 69.77 ± 7.56, respectively. The mean of HOMA-IR in patients was 2.25 ± 1.46. The frequency of patients with overweight and High HOMA index were, respectively, 33.3% and 29.3%. The correlation analysis between clinical characteristics and androgen serum levels showed that DBP and BMI had a significant positive correlation with 17OHP. The median regression analysis showed, only DBP in the adjusted model had a significant positive effect with 17OHP level (P < 0.05), and no significant relationship was observed for other characteristics.

Conclusion:

A significant association was found between BMI and DBP with serum concentrations of 17-OHP, suggesting that elevated 17-OHP can lead to an increased risk of cardiovascular disorders in children and adolescents with CAH.
Orbital spindle cell haemangioma
Authors: Arora Neha , Rambhatla Saptagirish , Vittal Rakshith
Published: July 2021

Spindle Cell Haemangioma (SCH) is a benign vascular lesion, which commonly affects the dermis and subcutaneous tissue of distal extremities. The occurrence of SCH in the head and neck region and more so in the orbit is very few and rare. SCH should be considered as one of the differential diagnosis in vascular tumors of the orbit. We are reporting a case of solitary SCH in the orbit which was mimicking orbital cavernous venous malformation (orbital venous haemangioma).
Role of human papillomavirus 6 & 11 in condyomata acuminata in Indian patients
Authors: Singh Mini P. , Rungta Tripti , Saikia Uma Nahar
Published: July 2021

Background:

Condylomata acuminata, commonly known as genital wart is a sexually transmitted disease caused by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The positivity of HPV6/11 in condylomata acuminata in western literature varies from 80-90% however, there is a paucity of Indian literature.

Aim:

The aim of the present study was to determine the role of HPV 6 & 11 in Condylomata acuminata in Indian patients.

Methods:

A total of 22 formalin fixed parafilm embedded (FFPE) tissue was collected from the cases of condylomata acuminata which was histologically diagnosed and was used to detect HPV 6 and 11 by PCR.

Results:

Of these 14/22 patients (63.6%) were positive for HPV 6 or 11; HPV 6 alone in eight (36.3%) and HPV 11 in six (27.2%).

Conclusion:

The high HPV 6 and 11 PCR positivity suggests their definitive role in causation of condylomas cases. This important HPV infection is preventable by prophylactic vaccination.
A study of CD10 positivity of stromal cells in core needle biopsy specimen of breast cancer patients and its relation with histological grade and lymphovascular invasion
Authors: Boler Anup K. , Akhtar Sana , Bandyopadhyay Arghya , Bandyopadhyay Goutam
Published: July 2021

Background:

In core needle biopsy (CNB) often the histological grade of invasive breast carcinoma is under-estimated due to heterogeneity of epithelial component. Stroma is relatively homogenous throughout the tumor and strong CD10 stromal positivity is proposed to be associated with high tumor grade.

Aims and Objectives:

The aim of this work was to study the expression of CD10 in stromal cells of invasive carcinoma of breast, no specific type (NST) in CNB specimens, and analyze its association with final histological grade and lymphovascular invasion (LVI).

Materials and Methods:

A total of 50 cases of invasive carcinoma of breast, NST were studied for 18 months. CNB specimens were graded according to modified Scarff–Bloom–Richardson (SBR) system and CD10 positivity was assessed in stromal cells. Mastectomy specimens were also similarly graded. Relation of stromal CD10 positivity with histological grading and LVI was studied.

Statistics:

Associations between the variables were studied by Chi-square test. A value of P< 0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results:

On CNB 46% patients had a grade 2 tumor, followed by 30% grade 3 and 24% grade 1 tumor. Strong CD10 positivity was seen in 40% cases, 32% showed weak positivity and 28% were negative for CD10 in stromal cells in CNB specimen. On evaluation of mastectomy specimen 48% of the patients had a grade 2 tumor, followed by 40% grade 3 tumor and 12% grade 1 tumor. Strong CD10 positivity was found to be significantly associated with final grade 3 tumor (P < 0.001) and LVI (P = 0.005).

Conclusions:

There was underestimation of histological grade on CNB, while strong stromal CD10 positivity in CNB was significantly associated with final grade 3 tumor and LVI.
Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of Public School Teachers Towards Learning Disabilities in Children - An Institutional Based Cross-Sectional Study in Dharmapuri District, Tamil Nadu
Authors: Madhamani Arunachalam , Joseph Alex
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Literature indicates that the incidence of specific learning disabilities among Indian children has been rising. Scholars have been paying much attention to teachers’ knowledge which is largely associated with early identification and treatment of learning disabilities.

Objectives:

This study aimed to understand the knowledge and awareness of public-school teachers, about learning disabilities among children, in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu, India.

Material and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was done among 200 school teachers in Dharmapuri district to achieve the desired objectives using structured and self- administered questionnaire.

Results:

The knowledge of teachers regarding learning disabilities among children was found to be moderate among the majority of the teachers (45%), where as substantially large number of participants showed an adequate level of knowledge (33.5%), and rest of the participants (21.5%) have shown an inadequate level of knowledge. A vast majority of participants (73.5%) were aware of the learning disability amongst children. The educational qualification (P value < 0.001) and experience (P value < 0.05) of the teachers had a significant association between knowledge level.

Conclusion:

In light of the findings, it is essential to spread the awareness and knowledge about the learning disabilities of children among teachers. The government should take necessary policy directions in raising awareness and knowledge of various learning disabilities among parents, teachers and peer groups so that these children will be handled in a better way in the social circle. This also should be included as a part of curriculum in teachers’ training programs.
Fifty Shades of COVID-19 – Immune Thrombocytopenic Purpura in HIV-TB-COVID Co-Infection
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Paul Saurav Sekhar , Meena Ved Prakash , Tiwari Pavan , Bhatnagar Sushma , Mohan Anant
Published: July 2021

SARS CoV-2 infection is associated with various hematological manifestations, including leucopenia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenia. Severe thrombocytopenia is, however, rare and is associated with severe COVID-19. ITP remains an important differential among other causes. We report a case of HIV-TB-COVID-19 co-infection, without any feature of severe COVID, presenting with severe thrombocytopenia which resolved on its own; cause was attributed to immune-mediated effect of SARS CoV-2 virus.
Severe or not so severe? The gravity of geriatric trauma
Authors: Abhilash Kundavaram Paul Prabhakar , Pradeeptha Sharon , Cris Andrea , Hazra Darpanarayan , Jindal Anmol , Selvan Jagadesha
Published: July 2021

Background:

Due to associated comorbidities, the elderly population is more vulnerable to injuries with complications. This study was done to assess the severity of trauma and outcome of injuries among these patients presenting to the Emergency Department (ED).

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective cohort study. We included all patients aged more than 60 years, who presented to the ED with trauma in the year 2018. Details of the mode of trauma, severity of injuries and outcome were analysed.

Results:

During the study period a total of 7666 trauma patients presented to ED, among which 879 (879/7666: 11.4%) were in the geriatric age group. The mean age was 68.9 (SD: 7) years with 90.8% being young-old (60–79 years) and 9.2% being old-old (>80 years). Common modes of injuries were road traffic accidents (RTA) (64%) fall on level ground (FLG) (20%) and fall from height (FFH) (8%). Most of them had Injury Severity Score (ISS) and New Injury Severity Score (NISS) score of 0–7, i.e.: 62% and 51%, respectively. On multivariate logistic regression analysis RTA, FFH FLG and triage priority 1 patients were associated with trauma in the old-old as compared to the young–old age groups significantly. Independent risk factors associated with severe trauma were seen RTA, FLG and priority 1 patients. Forty-four per cent patients were managed by the ED team alone. Trauma speciality departments referred to included orthopaedics (47%), neurosurgery (22%), trauma surgery (14%), plastic surgery (8%) and hand reconstruction surgery (6%). About half of the population under study was discharged stable (44%), of which the majority belonged to the young-old category (44.1%). The in-hospital mortality rate was 0.5% (4/879).

Conclusion:

This study shows the gravity of multiple injuries sustained by the geriatric age group with RTA, FLG and FFH being the predominant causes of trauma. The NISS highlights the severity of injuries in the old and the frail.
Comparative role of tenofovir versus entecavir for treating patients with hepatitis B virus-related acute on chronic liver failure
Authors: Hossain Sharker M. S. , Mahtab Mamun A. , Das Dulal C. , Noor-E-Alam Sheikh M. , Mamun Ayub A. , Khan Md. Sakirul I. , Akbar Sheikh M. F. , Rahman Md Zakiur , Rahman Salimur
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

The aim of the study was to compare the safety and efficacy of tenofovir versus entecavir for treatment of naive acute on chronic liver failure (ACLF) due to hepatitis B virus (HBV) (ACLF-B).

Methods:

Thirty-two patients aged 14-65 years were enrolled in the study. Diagnosis of ACLF was confirmed by clinical condition, biochemical analysis, and virological data. The causes of both chronic liver damages and acute insult in all patients were HBV. They were expressing HBV DNA in the sera, positive for IgM anti-HBc, had increased levels of serum bilirubin, compromised prothrombin time; and more than 50% patients had encephalopathy. The standard dose of tenofovir and entecavir was given.

Results:

The antiviral effects of tenofovir and entecavir were evident as most patients became negative for HBV DNA in the sera after 90 days of therapy. Also, the levels of serum bilirubin, CTP (Child-Turcotte-Pugh) and MELD (model for end-stage liver disease) score exhibited significant improvement due to antiviral therapy. Although the improvement of liver functions, and liver damages were detected in patients receiving both tenofovir and entecavir, the survival of the patients was significantly higher in those receiving tenofovir compared to entecavir-treated patients.

Conclusion:

This prospective study with limited number patients provides a challenge to assess the real potential of tenofovir over entecavir as therapeutic option for ACLF-B by conducting a multicenter clinical trial enrolling patient of different races and background.
Flashback and lessons learnt from history of pandemics before COVID-19
Authors: Parihar Shivay , Kaur Rimple Jeet , Singh Surjit
Published: July 2021

With an increasing frequency of infectious disease outbreaks, the COVID-19 pandemic causing mortality around the world and the threat of similar future events looming large, mankind is faced with the herculean task of counteracting such threats with the best possible strategies and public health decisions. It is key that such decisions should be guided by previous examples of similar health emergencies. Here we review some of the significant infectious disease outbreaks, including epidemics and pandemics occurring worldwide in the past including their impact at population and global levels, unique challenges presented by each and the measures taken by authorities worldwide as well as the crucial lessons each epidemic or pandemic provided. This review highlights that throughout history measures such as contact tracing, quarantine and isolation have been incredibly effective in limiting an outbreak in its severity, thus ensuring accurate information flow to the public is as essential as limiting the spread of misinformation. With global populations rising, surveillance for emerging and re-emerging pathogens will play an immense role in preventing future epidemics or pandemics. And finally that even though for novel strains or pathogens, although vaccines are thought to be an irreplaceable defense, but their development and distribution in time to curb an epidemic has seldom been witnessed and remains an important challenge for the future. Hence, we conclude that looking at these past examples not only highlights the important knowledge gained for the strategies to devise, but also the mistakes that can be avoided in the way forward.
Epidemiological study of adverse events following immunization in under 5 year children
Authors: Pagar Vikrant S. , Chavan Sushant S. , Patil Sarika P. , Borde Anant , Kinge Amol D. , Khargekar Naveen
Published: July 2021

Background:

The present study was conducted to study the socioeconomic and the demographic profile of children reporting with adverse events following immunization (AEFI) along with the determinants associated with AEFIs, based on investigation of each case and to assess the proportion of programmatic errors linked with AEFI cases.

Materials and Methods:

Record-based cross–sectional study conducted among sample of 118 cases of AEFI were reported. The case reports of all AEFI cases were procured and analyzed to identify factors associated with reported AEFI. The questionnaires related with preliminary investigation reports (PIRs) including forensic evidence of death cases were analyzed. Percentage analysis of data was done by proportions, measures of central tendencies, and Chi-square test.

Results:

Most of the cases reported were between 0 and 3 months of age constituting 39%. AEFI was seen more in male child than female. more than half of cases of AEFI were recorded following immunization with OPV/DPT/HBV together (66.94%). Most common AEFI reported were convulsion (68.64 %) and fever (58.47%) followed by local swelling at site of injection (11.86%). More than half of the cases of AEFI occurred within 12 hours of immunization (61.88%). Birth weight of most cases of AEFI were in the range between 2 and 2.4 kg (44.06%), followed by range between 2.5 and 2.9 kg (32.20%), the mean of birth weight was 2.51 kg.

Conclusion:

Convulsion was the most commonly reported AEFI, majority of AEFI occur within 12 h of immunization. Most of the AEFI were recorded following immunization with OPV/DPT/HBV together.
Drug utilization pattern and factors associated with polypharmacy and excessive polypharmacy in geriatric medical out-patients at a rural health training centre in India
Authors: Nitya S. , Ramya G. , Kiruthika Sivagourounadin , Meenakshi R , Devi Jayabalan Nalini , Suganya Ganesan , Pravin S.
Published: July 2021

Context:

Multiple chronic illnesses associated with ageing population demands the role of polypharmacy. Drug utilization study in terms of description of drug use pattern in the geriatric patients aids in monitoring polypharmacy as well as to determine the factors contributing to it.

Objectives:

To analyse the drug utilization pattern in geriatric patients at a rural health training centre.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in a rural health centre to assess the drug utilization pattern using the WHO core drug prescribing indicators. Polypharmacy was defined as usage of 5-8 drugs and excessive polypharmacy as intake of 10 or more drugs. The drugs were coded using Anatomical Therapeutical Chemical classification. Univariate and bivariate analysis were done using SPSS to present the data.

Results:

Among 207 patients, 29.5% were on polypharmacy and 1.5% patients on excessive polypharmacy. About 75% of patients had one or more comorbid medical condition. A total number of 829 drugs were prescribed and the average number of drugs per prescription was 4.02.

Conclusion:

The drug utilization pattern analysis in the geriatric patients reveals deviation of the average number of drugs per prescription from the WHO standard recommendation. The most common comorbid condition among the geriatric patients was diabetes mellitus. This drug utilization study imparts knowledge about the use of polypharmacy, comorbidities and the pattern of commonly used drugs among the geriatric patients in rural area. Periodic assessment of the pattern of drug utilization in the elderly aids to improve the prescribing pattern and minimize patient harm.
Getting paralysed after COVID
Authors: Mehta Sameer K. , Sunder Ashok
Published: July 2021

Neurological involvement after coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pneumonias is common and occurs in almost one-third of the patients. The commonest neurological symptoms are ageusia, anosmia, headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and myalgia. Guillain–Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare manifestation of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection; whereas the common neurological manifestations of the SARS-CoV-2 infection occur with the onset of the respiratory symptoms and may be due to the direct invasion of the nervous system by the virus, GBS in COVID-19 follows a time lag of 1–4 weeks and may be attributable to the immune mechanism of molecular mimicry. Here we report a case of GBS in a patient of COVID-19 which occurred on the 22nd day after the onset of the disease. The patient recovered completely and went home walking.
Lifestyle and behavioral changes during nationwide lockdown in India—A cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Singh Vishwambhar , Raghav Pankaja , Singh Garima , Pritish Baskaran T. B , Bishnoi Anil , Gautam Vedangi , Chaudhary Ashvanee Kumar , Kumar Ashutosh , Kumar Sagar , Sahu Suraj
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

After almost two months of reporting the first case of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in the country, the nationwide lockdown in India was initiated on 24th of March 2020, to curtail the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 infection in the country. While this lockdown had been in place for almost 3 months, the people of the nation have experienced changes in their routine lives in a wide range of activities, including personal behaviours. This study was conducted to identify the impacts that the lockdown had on the lifestyle and behavioural aspects of Indians during the lockdown.

Methods:

It was a cross sectional study, conducted by online survey. Data collection was done for the period of 3 months.

Results:

The study found that a huge number of participants had significant changes in their diet, sleep, bowel habits and also their personal traits. Also, the lockdown had improved interpersonal relationships and helped people explore their hobbies or even acquire a new skill (about 25% of the participants). More than 90% of the participants perceived decrease in air pollution and a majority reported increase in personal hygiene (74.2%), perceived decrease in crime rates (67.3%) as benefits of lockdown.

Conclusions:

It would be recommended to include variables to screen for mental health issues among the general population.
Clinico-bacteriological and antibiotic drug resistance profile of chronic suppurative otitis media at a tertiary care hospital in Western Rajasthan
Authors: Kombade Sarika Prabhakar , Kaur Navneet , Patro Sourabha Kumar , Nag Vijaya Lakshmi
Published: July 2021

Background:

Chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) is a major cause of hearing disability and morbidity in poor socioeconomic developing countries with prevalence of 4%. Indiscriminate use of antibiotics and poor follow up of patients has resulted in treatment failure, emergence of resistant strains, super infection, intra-cranial and extra-cranial complications in CSOM patients. Staphylococcus aureus, P. aeruginosa, Proteus spp. and Klebsiella spp. are most common organisms causing infection. Knowledge of microbial profile and susceptibility pattern is essential for efficacious treatment of this disorder.

Objective:

To determine the clinico-bacteriological profile of CSOM, to analyze the susceptibility pattern of various antibiotics and to evaluate the in vitro efficacy of aminoglycosides over fluoroquinolones against the aerobic bacterial isolates from CSOM.

Methods:

We studied 153 clinically suspected CSOM cases from March 2018 to October 2018 in Microbiology and Otorhinolaryngology department. The ear swabs were aerobically cultured and identification of the isolate was done by standard bacteriological methods.

Results:

Safe type CSOM was a major cause of disease. Moderate (35.3%) and mild degree (32.7%) of hearing loss was seen in most of the CSOM cases. The culture positivity rate was 82.4% and the most common isolate was P. aeruginosa (55.8%) followed by S. aureus (27.5%). P. aeruginosa, A. baumannii and Enterobacteriaceae spp. showed high sensitivity to colistin, piperacillin-tazobactam, ceftazidime-tazobactam and good sensitivity for cefepime and amikacin; 33.3% S. aureus isolates were Methicillin-resistant which was sensitive to gentamicin, vancomycin and linezolid.

Conclusion:

Knowledge of the spectrum of microorganisms causing ear discharge is important for effective treatment.
Awareness and attitude about basic life support among medical school students in Jeddah University, 2019
Authors: Alghamdi Yousef Abdulwahab , Alghamdi Tariq Ahmad , Alghamdi Fahad Saleh , Alghamdi Amal Hassan
Published: July 2021

Objectives:

To measure the level of knowledge and awareness towards basic life support (BLS) among students in preclinical years at Jeddah University (JU), and to determine their willingness to participate in BLS training in the near future.

Subjects and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among first-, second-, and third-year medical students of JU. A 27-item questionnaire measured the level of awareness and knowledge about BLS, including: 1) basic Information (seven items); 2) rescue reflex (eight items); and 3) CPR technique and process (12 items). Demographic and academic data, experience and exposure to BLS, and attitude regarding BLS (six items) were analysed as factors of adequate knowledge.

Results:

One hundred and four male students participated and 65 (62.5%) of them were in the second academic year. The correct answers varied from 10.6% to 67.3%, with eight items having <30% correct answers; and seven items showed >50% correct answers. Mean (SD) and median (P75) overall knowledge scores were 37.86 (13.92) and 37.04 (44.44) out of 100, respectively. Twenty-four (23.11%) participants attended a training course in BLS and 13 (12.5%) have ever performed BLS, either voluntarily or not voluntarily, and 18 (17.3%) felt that their current knowledge was sufficient. Knowledge level showed no statistically significant association with any of the investigated factors.

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need to integrate BLS courses to medical students to enrich their knowledge and improve resuscitation skills and ensure implementation of correct resuscitation techniques.