bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Undocumented Migration and Electoral Support: Evidence From Spain
Authors: Gálvez-Iniesta Ismael , Groizard José L.
Published: October 2021

Unwrapping the political discourse against immigration is key to understanding the rise of populism in Western democracies. A growing body of literature has found ample evidence that immigration pays a premium to conservative political forces that propose tighter policies. Using data on presidential elections in Spain from 2008 to 2019, we shed light on this debate by highlighting the role played by irregular migration. Some studies show that undocumented immigrants consume less and earn lower wages than documented immigrants with similar observable characteristics. In addition, since they are relegated to working in the informal sector, they cannot contribute to the welfare state with direct taxes. This suggests that undocumented migration might intensify support for right-wing politics and that the effect is independent from the one caused by the presence of documented migrants. We apply an instrumental variable strategy to deal with the non-random distribution of migrants across political districts. Our findings indicate that increasing undocumented migration increases support for the right, while increasing documented migration rises support for the left. When we consider the irruption of the far-right into electoral competitions, we find that undocumented migration redistributes votes from the left to the right, as has been observed in other countries.
Asylum Migration, Borders, and Terrorism in a Structural Gravity Model
Authors: Carril-Caccia Federico , Paniagua Jordi , Requena Francisco
Published: October 2021

In this article, we examine the impact of terrorist attacks on asylum-related migration flows. So far, the literature that examines the “push factors” such as terrorism that explain forced migration has omitted the fact that the vast majority of people forced to flee typically do so toward other locations within the country. The novel feature of our research is the estimation of a structural gravity equation that includes both international migration and internally displaced persons (IDP), a theoretically consistent framework that allows us to identify country-specific variables such as terror attacks. For that purpose, we use information on the number of asylum applications, the number of IDP, and the number of terrorist attacks in each country for a sample of 119 origin developing countries and 141 destination countries over 2009–2018. The empirical results reveal several interesting and policy-relevant traits. Firstly, forced migration abroad is still minimal compared to IDP, but globalization forces are pushing up the ratio. Secondly, terror violence has a positive and significant effect on asylum migration flows relative to the number of IDP. Thirdly, omitting internally displaced people biases downward the impact of terrorism on asylum applications. Fourthly, we observe regional heterogeneity in the effect of terrorism on asylum migration flows; in Latin America, terrorist attacks have a much larger impact on the number of asylum applications relative to IDP than in Asia or Africa.
A Monumental Horse Burial in the Armenian Highlands
Authors: Nachmias A. , Bar-Oz G. , Nadel D. , Petrosyan I. , Gasparyan B.
Published: October 2021

Here we report on the unprecedented discovery of the complete skeleton of a ritually interred adult stallion with a bronze ring in its mouth. The horse was buried in a unique 15-meters diameter monumental stone-built tomb excavated in the Aghavnatun necropolis located on the southern slopes of Mt. Aragats, in the northern fringes of the Ararat Depression, Republic of Armenia. The tumulus was roughly circular; the horse’s remains were found in situ, in an inner oval-shaped structure. Our methodological procedure included a detailed description of the burial, a taphonomic study of the bones, and meticulous morphometric observations and measurements, and thus we could provide a taxonomic defi nition and an age estimate. Direct radiometric dating of the horse’s skeleton provided a date of 2130±20 BP. The morphological characteristics of the horse, with its tall stature and slender feet, suggest that it was a large individual, similar to the extinct breed of Nisean horse previously known mainly from textual and iconographical sources. The metal ring found in the mouth of the horse suggests that it likely served as a breeding stallion. This discovery presents a unique combination of zooarchaeological evidence for the importance of the horse in the Parthian-Hellenistic worlds, and advances our understanding of the broad social signifi cance of the past breeding of equids in the Armenian Highlands.
Shovels Used by Russians in 17th–18th Century Siberia
Authors: Tataurov S. F. , Tikhonov S. S.
Published: October 2021

The study describes types of the shovel—one of the most widely used and multifunctional tools in 17th–18th century Russian culture of Siberia. The principal collection includes more than twenty intact and fragmented specimens unearthed during 13 fi eld seasons of excavations at Tara, in the Omsk Region. Shovels found elsewhere in Western Siberia are also described, and the role of this tool in the households of Russian pioneers in Siberia is assessed. Judging by the drawings in Semen Remezov’s chronicle and excavation records from Tara, Mangazeya, and Nadym forts, we conclude that shovels were specialized for various kinds of work, and that they varied with the season. There were diverse types used for constructing fortifi cations, dwellings and utility structures, for digging graves, tillage, clearing snow, handling bulk materials, and baking bread; children’s toy shovels are also described. Information is provided on shapes of shovels and the types of wood Siberians used for making them.
Hunting Equipment of Russians Living near Tara on the Irtysh in the 17th and 18th Centuries
Authors: Tataurova L. V. , Mylnikov V. P.
Published: October 2021

This article describes Russian hunting tools unearthed from several sites near the town of Tara on the Irtysh: Ananyino I, Izyuk I, Tara, and Fort Bergamak. The functions of tools are assessed on the basis of archaeological parallels from the Baraba forest-steppe, ethnographic examples relating to the culture of the Irtysh natives, materials from Fort Albazin and Fort Sayansk, and much earlier burials dating to the Xianbei-Rouran time in the Altai Mountains. The variety of 17th–18th century hunting tools is best represented at Mangazeya, Fort Alazeya, and Fort Stadukhin. Apart from typological comparisons, technological analysis was carried out for several wooden and metal artifacts. Results are helpful for revealing continuities between the 17th–18th century Russian hunting tradition at Tara and that practiced in Old Rus and in the 15th–17th century Russian state, as well as for comparing it with the Siberian native traditions.
From the Serbian Fair to the Russian Museum: On the Ethnographic Relevance of the Gingerbread Collection from 1902
Authors: Mikhaylova A. A.
Published: October 2021

Serbian fi gured gingerbreads owned by the Russian Museum of Ethnography are described, the history of the collection is provided, and its cultural meaning is evaluated. Ethnographic parallels are analyzed, and archaic examples are cited. The custom of baking gingerbread results from the commercialization of the agricultural tradition of baking ritual bread. In terms of cultural anthropology, the question may be raised whether the replacement of destroyed originals by plaster replicas preserves the information potential and ethnographic value of the collection. Its interpretation is relevant to national identity in new Balkan nations such as Slovenia, Croatia, and Serbia. Another problem is if and how a craft shared by several peoples can be an ethnic marker. In terms of ethnographic museology in the globalizing world, the prospects of acquiring recent collections are discussed. The role of such collections in constructing new national identities may be considerable.
CIV Distance
Authors: McCaffrey Trevor , Richards Gordon T.
Published: October 2021

We present the necessary code to generate CIV "distances," as introduced by Rivera et al.
The Effect of Soil and Water Conservation Structures on the Soil Biophysical and Chemical Properties in the Gidabo Sub-basin, Ethiopian Rift Valley
Authors:   the Department of Natural Resources Management, Dilla University, Ethiopia, Hassen Getahun , Bantider Amare , Legesse Abiyot , Maimbo Malesu
Published: October 2021

Soil erosion is one of the global challenges noticed as a cause for unsustainable socio-economic and environmental conditions. Over the last half-century, various soil and water conservation (SWC) practices were introduced in Ethiopia, but the conservation work could not be fully achieved in many areas. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the effect and constraints of physical SWC on selected soil biophysical and chemical properties of the Ethiopian rift valley. The primary and secondary data sources were used to answer the intended objectives. The statistical analysis of variance showed that the soil texture of the study area was affected by the type of conservation technologies than agroecology and slope characteristics. However, soil bulk density was not significantly affected at all. The study also showed that the soil biophysical and chemical properties were significantly affected by the variation of agroecology and SWC technologies. The overall result of the study depicted that about 40% of the conservation work failed to maintain soil fertility because the farmers have constraints to adopt and adapt the SWC work. The constraints include small land size, shortage of fuel wood, dependency on food aid, less productivity of the soil, youth migration, and long lasted effect of conservation works. These constraints were seen as causes for inferior agricultural product, food insecurity, famine, migration and frequent drought of the area. The study concluded that the SWC work of the area should focus on variation of agroecology, SWC technologies, and local constraints. Also, the policy of natural resource conservation should consider local constraints to implement the national SWC guideline.
The Success Factors of Implementing Web-Based Gamification According to the Viewpoint of Female English Teachers for Public Education Stages
Authors:   Jouf University, AlJouf, Saudi Arabia, Aldahash Thoraya , Alenezi Abdulhameed
Published: October 2021

Currently, one of the main concerns among teachers is to prepare a generation that emulates the knowledge society, and has the ability to keep pace with the renewed global changes; during creating socially interactive and constructivist learning environments such as gamified environments. The implementation of gamification in education needs to be carefully designed, which assures the importance of investigating the factors affect its use in education. Thus, this study aims to identify the factors that influence the success of applying web-based gamification in the educational process using a questionnaire adopted from the GAMEX scale. A total of 249 female English teachers participated in this study. To achieve the aims of this research, the researcher used the analytical descriptive method. The results showed that the most effective factors in the success of applying web-based gamification were entertainment, engagement, comprehension, creative thinking and the absence of a negative effect.
Discovering the Role of Problem-Solving and Discussion Techniques in the Teaching Programming Environment to Improve Students' Computational Thinking Skills
Authors:   the Faculty of Arts, Computing and Creative Industry, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris, Malaysia, Ubaidullah Nor Hasbiah , Mohamed Zulkifley , Hamid Jamilah , Sulaiman Suliana
Published: October 2021

Computational thinking skill is one of the essential abilities to be learned and perfected by students of this century. Studies have shown that in the teaching and learning of programming courses, discussion and problem-solving techniques have been widely used. However, studies based on the suitability of such teaching techniques for the development of the computational thinking skills of students are, however, lacking. In this context, this research was conducted to define the teaching techniques used by university lecturers when teaching a computer programming subject and to explore how the techniques can influence the development of the computational thinking skills of students. This research was based on a combination of qualitative and quantitative approaches involving a semi-structured interview and a survey method, respectively. The research sample consisted of eight (8) university lecturers recruited from several Malaysian public universities, who had been teaching computer science to undergraduates. The results showed that in teaching computer programming, a majority of the respondents used discussion and problem-solving methods, with each assisting students to gain computer programming skills and learn certain components of computational thinking. As such, it is recommended that teaching practitioners incorporate the discussion and problem-solving techniques in the teaching and learning of programming courses. The incorporation of such strategies will help students develop good computer programming and computational thinking skills encompassing all the fundamental elements. The results also revealed that the respondents had no experience in using the metacognitive technique. As such, it is also proposed that future research should focus on this technique to investigate any possible effects that it may have on the growth of the computer programming and computational thinking skills of undergraduates.
Categories for Barriers to Digital Transformation in Higher Education: An Analysis Based on Literature
Authors:   the Department of Electrical and Information Engineering, Gadjah Mada University, Indonesia, Aditya Bayu Rima , Ferdiana Ridi , Kusumawardani Sri Suning
Published: October 2021

For higher education institutions that encourage digital transformation, understanding the barriers are necessary for the digital transformation accomplishment. The purpose of this paper is to present a review of the literature on barriers to digital transformation in higher education. To get a wide overview in identifying the barriers to the implementation of digital transformation, a structured literature review was used to select the relevant studies published. Nine categories were identified based on the literature reviewed: vision, strategy and policy, resources, leadership, digital skill and knowledge, technology, adaptability, resistance to change, and government and economic. Our findings provided a fish-bone diagram that outlines twenty-two barriers to digital transformation in higher education. The main contribution of this study is a synthesis of the state of the art of barriers to digital transformation in higher education. We contribute to provide a common basic understanding of barriers to digital transformation in higher education to overcome barriers for improving the possibility of success. Moreover, we give an insight into future research on barriers exploration
Perancangan Kursi Ergonomi Pada Pekerja Bagian Finishing CV Abadi
Authors: Sokhibi Akh , Alifiana Mia Ajeng , Wisnujati Andika , Susanto Arief , Asri Vikha Indira , Ariqi Hafizh Lukman
Published: October 2021

Design and redesign are some of the fields of study in ergonomics. The purpose ofthe design and redesign is to achieve comfort and increase productivity. Ergonomics is a science that integrates workers with the environment around them at work. So it is hoped that integration can be applied to all organizations. CV Abadi Jaya Presisi is a company engaged in the production of plastic, where workers carry out finishing stages without fulfilling ergonomic aspects. Namely, the use of a worker's chair made of plastic is not following the dimensions of the worker. The method used in this study is quantitative with anthropometric data as primary data. First, the anthropometric data of finished workers were used in this study. Then the data is tested for normality, uniformity test, and data adequacy test. After testing the data, the next step is to calculate the percentile value used to determine the size of the ergonomic chair to be designed. According to the findings of this study, the width of the chair is 42.1 cm, the height of the chair is 30.3 cm, the length of the chair is 43.2 cm, the length of the back of the chair is 49.9 cm, and the height of the seat elbow is21.6 cm.
Analisis Bahan Bakar Campuran Methanol dengan Minyak Jarak terhadap Performa Engine 0S 4.6LA Pesawat Terbang Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Authors: Anggroro Sotya
Published: October 2021

Technological progress is evidenced by the creation of sophisticated equipment made to simplify human life. One of the advanced equipment continuously developed is an uncrewed aircraft called the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV). This study used an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Super Heavy aircraft with a two-stroke engine type OS 4.6 LA where the two-stroke engine requires fuel which can also lubricate the piston while operating. The purpose of this research is to make an alternative fuel with a mixture of methanol and castor oil where castor oil has flammable properties like fuel in general but can provide better lubrication. In this research, an analysis of the mixture of methanol and castor oil will be carried out on engine performance and fuel consumption of an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) aircraft with an engine type OS 4.6 LA. This research aims to compare methanol and castor oil with a ratio of 3:1 and 4:1, then test engine performance and fuel consumption. The results confirm that a 4: 1 mixture is the best performer with a stationary rotation of 4184 rpm, an idle rotation of 7344 rpm, and an acceleration rotation or the highest rotation of 12649 rpm. Then the fuel efficiency in the idle position with a flight time of 9.00 minutes consumes 100 ml of fuel, or in other words, the fuel consumption is 11.11 ml/minute.
Effect of dexamethasone on daily fetal movement, umbilical and middle cerebral arteries Doppler and cardiotocogram
Authors: Alanwar Ahmed , Akl Sherif , Hanafi Sherif , Mohamed Nader
Published: October 2021

Background: Preterm birth is a leading cause of perinatal death and disability and is an important public health problem globally. There is more work to be done regarding steroids effect, especially with the variations among demography and pathological conditions affecting mothers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of dexamethasone on healthy fetuses, observing the effects on MCA and UA Doppler velocity waveforms and cardiotocography, correlating them with fetal movement.Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted in Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, starting from April 2020 till December 2020. One hundred and ten women was recruited for the study. All women undergo elective cesarean section before 39 weeks of gestation. UA and MCA Doppler values were taken; nonstress test was recorded and fetal movements were counted after a single course of dexamethasone.Results: Our results included decrease in MCA PI, decrease in foetal movement count on the second day of dexamethasone injection, increase of short-term variability and direct correlation between the MCA RI and UA PI with the fetal movements decrease on the 5th day of dexamethasone injection.Conclusions: There are definitely cardiovascular changes that occur after dexamethasone administration, presented by increase in MCA blood flow and increase in FHR short term variability.
Childbirth patterns after previous caesarean birth in sub-Saharan Africa: a retrospective analytical study in two referral hospitals in a semi-urban setting in Cameroon
Authors: Kemfang Jean Dupont Ngowa , Fouogue Jovanny Tsuala , Nzali Bronwdown Stachys , Djuikwo Felicitée Teukeng , Dipanda André Ngandji , Kenfack Bruno
Published: October 2021

Background: Rising rates of caesarean section (CS) predispose to uterine rupture (UR) during subsequent childbirths. Childbirth after previous CS has poorly been studied in rural Africa. Objective was to describe and analyse the patterns of childbirths after previous CS.Methods: A retrospective analytical study of facility-based deliveries after previous caesarean birth from January 1, 2019 to April 30, 2021 in Bafoussam, Cameroon. We included 416 files of women with previous CS for term singleton pregnancies. Statistics were computed with SPSS®.Results: Mean age and mean parity were 29.9±5.6 years and 3.2±1.4 respectively. Almost half of participants [199 (47.8%)] had had a previous vaginal birth. Antenatal care (ANC) providers were nurses/midwives and general practitioners for 232 (55.8%) and 77 (18.5%) women respectively. The route of delivery wasn’t chosen during ANC for 312 (75.0%) women and 99 (23.8%) of participants were referred during labour. Elective repeat CS was done for 92 (22.1%) women and 324 (77.9%) underwent trial of labour after CS (TOLAC) of whom 131 (40.4%) gave birth by vaginal route. Onset of labour was spontaneous in 304 (93.8%) cases. UR complicated 13 (4.0%) cases of TOLAC. Previous vaginal birth predicted successful TOLAC and referred parturients had higher risk of UR. There were 28 (8.6%) perinatal deaths and 1 (0.3%) maternal death.Conclusions: In our semi urban setting, deliveries after previous caesarean births are unplanned. The success rate of TOLAC is low with a high rate of complications. There is need to improve quality of ANC, birth care and post-natal care for women with previous CS.
Intraoperative surgical difficulties encountered during repeat caesarean section in a tertiary care centre in Northeast India
Authors: Morang Korobi , Lotha Lithingo , Konda Kiran R.
Published: October 2021

Background: Caesarean section is the commonest obstetric operative procedure worldwide. The potential perioperative problems in repeat caesarean section include adhesions, increased blood loss, prolonged operative time, injuries to adjacent structures, hysterectomy etc. These increase with increase in caesarean section number.Methods: Hospital based observational study, conducted at Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Assam Medical College, from July 2019 to June 2020 with the aim to study intraoperative difficulties encountered during repeat caesarean section. Cases were grouped into two main groups based on number of prior caesarean sections. A detailed history, clinical and intraoperative findings of all pregnant women undergoing repeat caesarean section were noted. Results were tabulated and analysed.Results: Out of 400 women with prior caesarean section who underwent repeat caesarean. 321 had 1 prior caesarean and rest had 2. Among the cases cephalopelvic disproportion was the commonest (43.25%) indication and obstructed labour was the least common (0.25%). Common complications were adhesions (38.25%), thinned lower uterine segment (27%), advance bladder (19.50%), uterine dehiscence (14.75%), excess blood loss (12.75%), extension of uterine incision (8.25%), uterine rupture (1%), placenta accrete (0.75%), and bladder injury (0.5%). Intraoperative complications like adhesions, uterine dehiscence, delivery and operating time were significantly higher in women with 2 prior caesarean section compared to 1 prior caesarean section (p<0.001).Conclusions: Women with caesarean scar are at high risk in subsequent pregnancies particularly in a country like India where antenatal care is often neglected. Best technique to reduce multiple potential complications of repeat caesarean section is to reduce the rates of primary and repeat caesarean sections whenever possible.
Role of SR vacuum cannula as novel technique for atonic PPH management study at Pannadhay Rajkiya Mahila Chikitsalaya and RNT Medical College, Udaipur
Authors: Damor Priyanka , Maheshwari Sunita , Singh Shalini
Published: October 2021

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage is a major obstetrical emergency and one of the important but preventable causes of maternal morbidity and mortality. It is often sudden, frequently unpredictable and catastrophic. In this study SR vacuum cannula will be applied to create negative pressure inside the uterine cavity with a specially designed uterine cannula, which is a simple, safe and cost-effective technique. The aim and objective of the study was to analyse the incidence, effectiveness of suction cannula in management of atonic PPH after failure of medical management over tamponade and the maternal outcome after suction technique.Methods: This observational study was conducted in Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, RNT Medical College and Panna Dhay Rajkiya Mahila Chikitsalaya, Udaipur, Rajasthan. Patients requiring PPH management admitted to the obstetrics ward between August 2019 – December 2020. The Uterine Vacuum Retraction System consists of SR Suction cannula to control PPH after vaginal delivery. SR suction cannula for atonic PPH at caesarean delivery and High vacuum suction machine was used.Results: In majority of the patients bleeding was stopped within three minutes. 60 women (50%) bleeding was stopped within 3 minutes, in 38 women (31.7%) bleeding was stopped between 3-4 minutes and in 22 women (18.3%) bleeding was stopped >4 minutes. In 75 (62.5%) women negative pressure was applied only once, in 20 (16.7%) was applied two times and 25 women (20.8%) negative pressure was applied three times to stop bleeding. Blood collected in bottle after SR Cannula Application ranged from 100-150 ml.Conclusions: Vacuum suction cannulas should be made part and parcel of normal delivery tray to facilitate quick application. This simple and cost-effective technique takes very little time to organize and can stop bleeding within 3 minutes in atonic PPH as shown in this study.
Comparative study of neuroimaging features and clinical symptoms in patients with eclampsia
Authors: Meena Neha , Meena Suman , Meena Khushbu , Verma Savitri
Published: October 2021

Background: Eclampsia is a life-threatening emergency that remains a major cause for feto-maternal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of our study was to access various computed tomographic scan (CT) findings in eclampsia patients and compare neurological symptoms with radiological findings. Methods: A prospective analytical study was undertaken in department of obstetrics and gynecology, J. K. Lon hospital, Kota during the period of 2019-2020. Women who presented as eclampsia and admitted in indoor wards were included in the study. Data analyzed included various maternal and fetal parameters, CT scan findings and outcome of pregnancy. Results: The incidence of eclampsia was 1.1% of total deliveries. High risk factors associated with eclampsia were primigravida (70%), maternal age (70% in 21-25 years age group), illiteracy (64%), inadequate antenatal care (96%), early gestation (68%). On CT scan findings 52% patients had abnormal CT scan findings of which most common was cerebral edema (57.7%). Parieto-occipital lobe was most common region to be affected. Altered sensorium was found to be significantly associated with abnormal CT scan findings.Conclusions: Eclampsia is a major cause of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality.  CT scan in eclampsia have significant role in early diagnosis of patients with cerebral pathologies and these CT scan findings were associated with the level of consciousness and number of convulsive episodes.  Thus, CT scan helps in further management of these patients by multidisciplinary approach.
An observational study of uterine rupture at a tertiary care center
Authors: Tvinwal Sangeeta , Meena Pooja , Bamaniya Bharat Bhushan
Published: October 2021

Background: Uterine rupture is one of the most dangerous obstetric emergency situation carrying an increased risk of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This catastrophic complication occurs most often in women attempting a vaginal birth after a prior LSCS. Aim was to determine the incidence, etiology, management, maternal and fetal outcome. Recommend strategy for its prevention to reduce the incidence of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted over a period of 1 year. Total 51 cases who were diagnosed with rupture were included in the study. Emergency laparotomy after pre-operative resuscitation done. Hysterectomy or repair of rupture site was done depending on the condition of the patient, parity, presence or absence of infection.Results: Maximum patients of uterine rupture belonged to 37-40 weeks of GA. Inter-delivery interval <18-24 week were more vulnerable. Patients with previous caesarean section was more than without section. Maximum cases presented with signs of shock. Maternal death rate was 11.63%, whereas perinatal death rate was 82.35%.Conclusions:Uterine rupture is a major contributor to maternal morbidity and neonatal mortality. Four major easily identifiable risk factors are: history of prior caesarean section, grand multiparity, obstructed labor, and fetal malpresentations. Identification of these high risk women, prompt diagnosis, immediate transfer, and optimal management needs to be overemphasized to avoid adverse feto-maternal complications.
Is thrombocytosis a valid indicator of advanced stage and high mortality of gynecological cancer?
Authors: Rathod Archana , Deshmukh Varsha , Kodgire Jyoti
Published: October 2021

Background: Cytokines that stimulate thrombopoiesis are often elevated in cancer, and as a result, various cancers have been associated with thrombocytosis. In addition thrombocytosis has been found to be an adverse prognostic factor in many types of common cancers.Methods: A cross sectional study was designed to evaluate the factors associated with prognosis of the cases of carcinoma cervix in the Department of Gyne-Oncology, GMCH, Aurangabad from August 2016 to August 2017. Variables analysed were the sociodemographic details, literacy level, symptoms, duration, stage of the disease at diagnosis, pretreatment platelet counts were noted.Results: 85% patients were having squamous cell carcinoma, 6 % patients were having adenocarcinoma and 9% patients had adenosuamous carcinoma. 29% patients have platelet count less than 3 lakhs and 18 patients has tumour less than 4 cm.  71 % patients have platelet count more than 3 lakhs, only 6% patients belonged to early stage and 65% belonged to late stage of cancer cervix.Conclusions: Seventy one percent of the cases had platetlet count >3 lakh, of which only 6% were in early stage of disease, whereas 65% belonged to late stage of the disease. All the patients with tumour size of >4 cm had platelet count more than 3 lakh, this shows strong association of platelet count with tumour size >4 cm and advanced stage of the disease. This can be used as independent prognostic factor for prognosis of cancer cervix.
Knowledge on mode of transmission and prevention measure of HIV and AIDS
Authors: Miah M. Sazib , Islam G. M. Raihanul , Amin M. Anwarul , Akter M. Tuhin , Hossain M. Muarraf , Islam M. Kariul , Ahamad Giyasuddin , Ali M. Shukur , Hoque M. Aynal
Published: October 2021

Background: HIV prevalence in Bangladesh is low (<1%) among the general population, even within the vulnerable population it continued to be low other than certain sections of injecting drug users.Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Polly Chikitsok/rural medical practitioners in Hobiganj, Narayanganj, Rangpur and Kurigram District of Bangladesh during January 2014 to April 2014. One hundred eighty (180) Polly chikitsok/rural medical practitioners were interviewed with a semi-structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling technique was used. Statistical analysis of the results was done by using computer software SPSS version 22 with tabulation plan. The ethical committee of the department of public health, Daffodil International University of Bangladesh, approved the thesis with their signature.Results: A total of 180 participants were interviewed, of whom 176 were males and 4 were females. 17.8 percent of the respondents are of 21-30 years of age, 37 percent respondents are 31-40 years old. 27.8 percent of the study participants were in their 41-50. Hundred percent respondents, they had ever met any HIV positive patient in the course of their occupational responsibility in the workplace. 97.8 percent respondents correctly knew blood transfusions transmit HIV/AIDS, followed by sharing needles (98.3 percent), and maternal child transmission (68.9 percent). However, more than two thirds of the respondents (77.8 percent) correctly identified HIV/AIDS preventive measures. Nearly half the sampled population (84.4 percent) did not think condoms were useful in preventing transmission of HIV.Conclusions: In Bangladesh, the prevalence of HIV infection is growing and PC/RMPs are increasingly involved in a range of HIV prevention and care activities.
Unmet need for contraception among eligible women of urban slums in Chennai
Authors: Kalva Jayashree , Rao Arathi P. , Narayanan Prakash
Published: October 2021

Background: Unmet need for family planning is a crucial indicator to assess demand for family planning programme. It was reported that women from the world’s poorest countries have a high unmet need for contraception. Unmet need is particularly high among immigrants, urban slum dwellers, and women in the post-partum period. The objective of this study was to assess the unmet need and factors influencing the unmet need for contraception among urban slum dwellers in Chennai, South India.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study of 375 married women was conducted among 50 urban slums of Chennai. Multistage random sampling was employed. About 6-9 women from each slum were interviewed. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to obtain data.Results: The mean age of the participants was 32.1±7.3 years. The total unmet need was 13.8%, which included 9.3% for limiting and 4.5% spacing. The major reasons for contraception non-use among women with unmet need were no preference to use modern contraceptives (30.8%) and preference to get sterilized soon (21.2%). Age, education, religion, and number of living children were the factors associated with unmet need.Conclusions: It was noted that unmet need reduced with age and increased number of living children. Though the unmet need is considerably low compared to other studies it is evident that women are still uncertain to use modern contraceptive methods for spacing and are more likely to undergo sterilization after their desired family size is achieved.
Prevalence of anemia among school girl children and effectiveness of supplementation intervention
Authors: Murthy H. M. Keshava , Murthy Tanishka K. , Nath Amol
Published: October 2021

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is a major public health issue worldwide, especially in developing countries. Anemia prevalence in young children, particularly girls, continues to remain high in most parts of India and Asia. Aims and objectives were to study the prevalence of anemia (IDA) among school girl children of age group between 5-16 years and to assess the effectiveness of iron-folic acid supplements and iron rich diet.Methods: The study was conducted among 558 school girls in the age group between 5-16 years (1st to 10th standard) at a Kendriya Vidyalaya in Punjab. The study group was checked for their hemoglobin level. Health education regarding prevention of anemia was imparted to girls and their parents followed by daily iron-folic acid supplement. Their hemoglobin was again checked after three months of supplementation.Results: The prevalence of anemia in the study group was 65%.  After the intervention, the Hb level was significantly increased as shown by increase in mean and SD of Hb% from 9.75±1.24 to 11.66±0.98. The data was analyzed in two age groups, 5-10 years and 11-16 years, to check for any significant variation in their Hb levels. Though there was difference in prevalence of anemia in these age groups, the difference was not statistically significant.Conclusions: The study showed that prevalence of anemia is 65% and is still one of the major public health issues among school going girl children of all age. In addition to pre-school and adolescent girls, we also need to focus on pre-puberty girls, as anemia is equally prevalent among them.
Prevalence of sexually transmitted infections in a tertiary care centre of North India
Authors: Boparai Amarbir Singh , Singh Jatinderpal , Brar B. K. , Gill Sukhpreet Kaur
Published: October 2021

Background: Sexually transmitted infections (STI’s) are most common notifiable infectious diseases in the world. Knowledge of prevalence of STI’s is important to implement appropriate control strategies. This study is undertaken to see any changing trends in prevalence of STI’s by comparing with previous studies.Methods: All the patients who attended STI clinic from July 2019 to June 2020 were included in the study. Diagnosis was made on basis of history, clinical examination and laboratory investigations.Results: The 2188 patients were seen from July 2019 to June 2020 in STI clinic. Mean age group of patients is 25-44 years. Scabies (31.6%) was the commonest STI seen in outpatient department followed by balanoposthitis (16.4), vaginal discharge (12.5%), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) (11.4%), herpetic genital ulcer disease (7.9%), genital warts (5.8%), molluscum contagiosum (2.4%), syphilis (2.4%), urethral discharge (1.7%), non-herpetic genital ulcer disease (0.4%), non-gonococcal urethritis (0.4%).Conclusions: Scabies was the most common STI reported in our study followed by balanoposthitis and vaginal/cervical discharge. Among the viral STI’s, HIV is showing alarmingly rising trends and is most common viral STI seen in the study followed by herpes simplex virus (HSV). May be there is less reporting of genital herpes simplex infection due to its self-resolution. As compared to previous studies, rising trends of fungal infections are seen which can be due to syndromic management of bacterial STI’s, rising incidence of diabetes mellitus as well as illicit use of over-the-counter broad-spectrum antibiotics given by the local practitioners.
Impact and perception of COVID-19 among transgender
Authors: Kumbar Lohit , Hari Kiran Baratam , Dharmalingam Mala , Kalra Pramila
Published: October 2021

Background: Global pandemic of COVID-19 has affected all society sections, including transgender people who face neglect regarding medical care. Here we intended to study the awareness and perception of COVID-19 and its impact among transgender.Methods: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted among transgender people and compared with age-matched controls who attended our OPD or consulted telephonically.Results: The study included 40 transgender and 40 controls. Almost half of the transgender group (52.5%) were not graduates, and about 50% worked in a private company. There was no significant difference in the knowledge in terms of information about COVID-19, source of information, awareness of online consultation, treatment of COVID-19, and safe distancing (p=NS). Personal hygiene knowledge was better in controls (p=0.002), and hand washing habit was more in transgender (p=0.014), but transgender people were at par with the control group regarding the type of soap used, protective coverings for face, and availing online consultation (p=NS). However, transgender used hand sanitizers less frequently (p=0.035) and walked barefoot more often (p=0.004). COVID-19 and lockdown had a similar impact in both the groups in terms of healthcare support, source of groceries, and getting stuck away from home (p=NS).Conclusions: Though the education level in transgender was less, the level of awareness, knowledge, practices, and attitude about COVID-19 infections was almost similar to the control group. However, regarding the frequency of handwashing and the use of hand sanitizers, transgender people lagged, which needs to be addressed.
Carbon monoxide poisoning: assessment, treatment, and outcomes
Authors: Zein Ahmed Ragab , Almalki Eidan Bakheet , Almasabi Hani Ahmed , Alzahrani Hatem Tarig , Alabdali Rehab Hassan , Alsalamah Zainab Kadim , Alhaeti Haitham Rasheed , Alsuroji Abdullah Hadi , Bugis Ashwaq Hussain , Sadiq Fatima Abdullah Al , Almohammadi Muath Yousef
Published: October 2021

Many complications can occur secondary to carbon monoxide (CO), including serious complications to the cardiovascular system and neurological complications that might even end up with death. It has been estimated that around 30-40% of patients suffering from CO poisoning usually die before presenting at the emergency department. Accordingly, management of these patients is a critical approach to enhance the outcomes and prognosis of the affected patients. In the present literature review, we have discussed the current evidence regarding the assessment, treatment, and outcomes of patients with CO poisoning. Our results indicate that attending clinicians should adequately assess the suspected patients with their clinical manifestations, laboratory parameters, and history of exposure to CO. Besides, imaging techniques can also be indicated in some cases with a suspected brain injury. After the diagnosis has been successfully established, management of symptoms and administration of the validated therapeutic modalities should be rapidly performed to enhance the outcomes and intervene against the development of further complications. However, it should be noted that even after achieving adequate management, long-term complications might develop with the survivors and can even lead to death. Accordingly, further research is needed to help formulate successful interventions that can enhance the prognosis of the condition.
Edentulism in Saudi Arabia and associated factors
Authors: Haroub Anas Omar , Khormi Abdullah Abdu , Yankesar Rawan Ahmad , Alhumaid Shaden Abdullah , Aleissa Mohammad Ibrahim , Alotheem Lubna Saleh , Alsharif Hussain Nayef , Alghamdi Khalid Abdulaziz , Alateeq Hassan Hamoud , Alshehri Ali Saeed , Alaidarous Alaa Mohammad
Published: October 2021

The epidemiology of edentulism is different across the different communities and the prevalence rates are also significantly different and it can be affected by various factors. There have been many investigations that reported the prevalence rates of edentulism across the different countries globally. However, not many investigations were published in Saudi Arabia and the published ones also report different findings. In the present study, we have reviewed the current studies in the literature to investigate the prevalence of edentulism and associated factors in Saudi Arabia. Our results indicated that the reported rates were conflicting among the different reports across the Kingdom and some of these rates are lower than other rates that were reported in some countries but higher than others also. Therefore, further nationwide research was still needed to formulate better evidence and help draw adequate interventions for the most vulnerable groups. Age, gender, educational levels, regional residency, socioeconomic status, depression and diabetes have all been reported to be correlated with edentulism. The prevalence of the condition has been reported to be highest among older age groups, while evidence is contradicting about the difference between both genders. Therefore, targeting vulnerable populations with early interventions can reduce the incidence rates and enhance the quality of life among these populations.
Evaluation of serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D levels in alopecia areata of scalp: a cross sectional observational study
Authors: Jain Manish , Yadav Devendra Kumar , Nyati Asha , Lal Mohan
Published: October 2021

Background: Alopecia areata (AA) is a T cell-mediated autoimmune disorder of anagen hair follicle leading to distressing and relapsing non-scarring hair loss. Vitamin D an immunomodulator plays important role in regulating normal hair cycle. Recent evidence suggests inconsistent association between vitamin D deficiency and alopecia areata.

Methods: Hospital-based cross-sectional observational study of forty untreated cases of alopecia areata and forty age and sex-matched healthy controls in 18-45 years of age group recruited from out-patient department. Each patient will undergo a detailed history, clinical examination and SALT (Severity of alopecia tool) scoring. Enhanced chemiluminesence method (Eci) will be used to estimate serum 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D].

Results: The mean 25(OH)D level in patients of AA was 12.45±4.80 ng/ml (deficient), while that of controls was 33.73±10.02ng/ml (normal). The difference between the levels of 25(OH)D in patients of AA and controls came out to be statistically significant (p≤0.0001). A strong negative correlation was seen between SALT score and 25(OH)D level (-0.32), which was found to be statistically significant (p=0.0462).

Conclusions: The present study established that vitamin D levels are either insufficient/deficient in alopecia areata and it correlates negatively with severity of SALT (severity of alopecia tool) score.
Profile of alopecia areata in patients attending dermatology out patient department in a tertiary care hospital in Gangtok, Sikkim
Authors: Gupta Nisha , Sharma Rekha , Sharma Rukma L.
Published: October 2021

Background: Alopecia areata is a condition that is characterized by a well-defined round or oval patches of non-scaring hair loss in scalp or any hairy area of the body. Alopecia areata has become a major health problem faced by people all over the world. This research was done to ascertain the prevalence of alopecia areata in different age group and to study its association with autoimmune diseases and systemic illnesses.

Methods: The present hospital based descriptive study includes 52 alopecia areata patients attending dermatology out-patient department.

Results: It was seen that the disease can occur at any age group mostly affecting those between 21-40 years. The age of presentation varied from 14 to 48 years with male preponderance. It was found that arthritis was associated in 30.7%, ANA was positive in 7.7% and 12% had hypothyroidism. Eosinophilia was found in 34.6% and 7.7% had asthma among then.

Conclusions: Our study shows that it could be associated with autoimmunity, thyroid abnormality, atopy and inflammation.
Cutaneous manifestations in COVID-19 patients in a district COVID care centre
Authors: Dasari Prathyusha , Chowdary Swetha A. , Samanthula Haritha , Ruvva Soumya
Published: October 2021

Background: COVID-19, initially started as respiratory illness and evolved to involve various systems. Skin has been the least targeted organ with manifestations limited to case reports and series in a foreign scenario. Here, we tried to understand a same in an Indian scenario.

Methods: This was cross-sectional study done in district COVID centre among patients with a confirmed diagnosis of COVID-19 with cutaneous manifestations for 3 months. A detailed history, complete cutaneous examination was carried out. Timing in relation to other symptoms and severity was assessed.

Results: Among the 1603 patients, 39 (2.4%) had skin manifestations. Urticaria (20.5%), petechiae/purpura (17.9%), pruritis (15.4%) were the most common followed by maculo-papular rash (7.7%), manifestations secondary to drugs (7.7%), diffuse hair fall (7.7%), pseudo-chilblains (5.1%), vesicular eruptions (5.1%), infections (5.1%), cellulitis, gangrene and livedoid vasculitis. Timing of skin lesions ranged from 2 days before (10.3%) onset of COVID-19 symptoms or diagnosis to 10 days after (69.2%). Urticaria, petechiae, maculopapular rash were seen more commonly in patients with fever and respiratory symptoms. Asymptomatic cases showed urticaria, petechiae and pseudo-chilblains. Majority were in mild and moderate disease and livedoid vasculitis patient had severe disease.

Conclusions: Skin manifestations in COVID-19 are relatively uncommon in Indian scenario. However, few of the manifestations give a hint of infection while some correlate with the severity of disease.