bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Efficient Source Selection Approach for Retrieving Electronic Health Records From Federated Clinical Repositories
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Gupta Bharat
Published: August 2022

The data retrieval and unification of patient electronic health records from distinct clinical repositories is essential for an effective health decision making. The scattering of patient data in many complementary but also overlapping sources poses a challenge in locating the desired records. Maintaining the patient master index also faced legal and privacy issues. Therefore, it is essential to locate the relevant records of the patient in federated clinical data sources. The research carried out proposed an efficient approach for relevant selection of patient records using semantic technologies. The approach uses both triple pattern-wise and join-aware source selection approaches for optimal selection of relevant data sources. The state-of-art federated engines are evaluated on the basis of source selection time and overall query execution time for different federated queries. The experimental results shows that the proposed approach selects the relevant data sources with reduced number of remote requests and significantly reduces the query execution time.
Possible Relationship between the HLA-DRA1 Intron Haplotype of Three Single-Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Intron 1 of the HLA-DRA1 Gene and Autoantibodies in Children at Increased Genetic Risk for Autoimmune Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Andersson Svärd Agnes , Benatti Elin , Lundgren Markus , Lernmark Åke , Maziarz Marlena , Elding Larsson Helena ,   the Diabetes Prediction in Skåne Study Group
Published: August 2022

Recently, a haplotype of three single-nucleotide polymorphisms (tri-SNP) in intron 1 of the HLA-DRA1 gene was found to be strongly associated with type 1 diabetes risk in HLA-DR3/3 individuals. The tri-SNP reportedly function as “expression quantitative trait loci,” modulating HLA-DR and -DQ expression. The aim was to investigate HLA-DRA1 tri-SNPs in relation to extended HLA class II haplotypes and human peripheral blood cell HLA-DQ cell-surface median fluorescence intensity (MFI), the first-appearing islet autoantibody, and autoimmunity burden. A total of 67 healthy subjects (10–15 y) at increased HLA risk for type 1 diabetes and with (n = 54) or without (n = 13) islet autoantibodies were followed longitudinally in the Diabetes Prediction in Skåne study. Among four tri-SNPs, AGG (n = 67), GCA (n = 47), ACG (n = 11), and ACA (n = 9), HLA-DQ cell-surface MFI on CD4+ T cells was lower in AGG than GCA (p = 0.030) subjects. Cumulative autoimmunity burden was associated with reduced HLA-DQ cell-surface MFI in AGG compared with GCA in CD16+ cells (p = 0.0013), CD4+ T cells (p = 0.0018), and CD8+ T cells (p = 0.016). The results suggest that HLA-DRA1 tri-SNPs may be related to HLA-DQ cell-surface expression and autoimmunity burden.
Comparison of the predictive value of anthropometric indicators for the risk of benign prostatic hyperplasia in southern China
Authors: Huang Meng-Jun , Yang Yan-Yi , Chen Can , Luo Rui-Xiang , Wen Chu-Qi , Li Yang , Zeng Ling-Peng , Li Xiang-Yang , Yin Zhuo
Published: August 2022

This study aimed to compare the predictive value of six selected anthropometric indicators for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). Males over 50 years of age who underwent health examinations at the Health Management Center of the Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University (Changsha, China) from June to December 2020 were enrolled in this study. The characteristic data were collected, including basic anthropometric indices, lipid parameters, six anthropometric indicators, prostate-specific antigen, and total prostate volume. The odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) for all anthropometric parameters and BPH were calculated using binary logistic regression. To assess the diagnostic capability of each indicator for BPH and identify the appropriate cutoff values, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and the related areas under the curves (AUCs) were utilized. All six indicators had diagnostic value for BPH (all P ≤ 0.001). The visceral adiposity index (VAI; AUC: 0.797, 95% CI: 0.759–0.834) had the highest AUC and therefore the highest diagnostic value. This was followed by the cardiometabolic index (CMI; AUC: 0.792, 95% CI: 0.753–0.831), lipid accumulation product (LAP; AUC: 0.766, 95% CI: 0.723–0.809), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR; AUC: 0.660, 95% CI: 0.609–0.712), waist-to-height ratio (WHtR; AUC: 0.639, 95% CI: 0.587–0.691), and body mass index (BMI; AUC: 0.592, 95% CI: 0.540–0.643). The sensitivity of CMI was the highest (92.1%), and WHtR had the highest specificity of 94.1%. CMI consistently showed the highest OR in the binary logistic regression analysis. BMI, WHtR, WHR, VAI, CMI, and LAP all influence the occurrence of BPH in middle-aged and older men (all P ≤ 0.001), and CMI is the best predictor of BPH.
Spontaneous closure of patent ductus arteriosus in preterm babies after failed attempts at transcatheter device closure
Authors: Deniwar Ahmed , Brown Matthew , Balaguru Duraisamy
Published: August 2022

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) for preterm infants is increasingly performed after the Food and Drug Administration approval of the Amplatzer Piccolo Occluder device (Abbott Inc., Abbott Park, IL, USA) in the United States. We report three babies in whom transcatheter closure of PDA was unsuccessful; however, the PDA closed spontaneously in 1–5 days after the transcatheter attempt. The PDA remained closed during follow-up at 3 weeks, 10 weeks, and 17 months, respectively. Mechanical stimulation of the PDA by the wire during attempted device closure likely induced the PDA closure. Further studies are needed to evaluate whether this is a useful alternative therapy in this patient population.
Congenital systemic arteriovenous fistulas
Authors: Subramanian Anand P. , Jayranganath Mahimarangaiah , Bharath Adaligere Paraswanath , Barthur Ashita , Sastry Usha Mandikal Kodandarama , Moorman Antoon F. M.
Published: August 2022

Background:

Data on congenital systemic arteriovenous fistulas are largely based on individual case reports. A true systemic arteriovenous fistula needs to be differentiated from other vascular malformations like capillary or venous hemangiomas, which are far more common.

Objectives:

We sought to identify the varied symptoms, diagnostic challenges, describe interventional treatment options, and postulate an embryological basis for this uncommonly described entity.

Methods:

This is a descriptive study of a cohort of systemic arteriovenous fistulas seen in the department of pediatric cardiology at a tertiary cardiac institute from 2010 to 2020, with prospective medium-term follow-up. A total of seven cases were identified. The diagnosis was confirmed by computed tomographic imaging, magnetic resonance angiography, or conventional angiography.

Results:

All were successfully closed using duct occluders or embolization coils with no recurrence in six cases over a median duration of follow-up of 48 months (interquartile range: 16; 36–52 months). Four of the seven cases underwent follow-up imaging using echocardiography or ultrasound.

Conclusion:

The incidence of congenital systemic arteriovenous fistulas is low and accounted for 0.009% of pediatric outpatients seen over 10 years at our institute. The spectrum of clinical presentation varies from an innocuous swelling or a pulsating mass to frank heart failure. Strong clinical suspicion and advanced imaging modalities have helped identify some hitherto undescribed connections. Large malformations with multiple communications may persist or recur despite transcatheter closure.
Feasibility, safety, and efficacy of iron bioresorbable scaffold in neonates with duct-dependent pulmonary circulation
Authors: Mood Marhisham Che , Niazy Khalil Ahmad , Alwi Mazeni , Samion Hasri , Tiong Koh Ghee , Sivalingam Sivakumar , Zhang Deyuan
Published: August 2022

Introduction:

Bioresorbable stent has the theoretical advantage in the pediatric age group; however, experience in the literature is very limited.

Objectives:

This pilot study sought to evaluate the feasibility, safety, and performance of iron bioresorbable scaffold (IBS Angel™) as short-term palliation in lesions with noncomplex patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

Materials and Methods:

Nine neonates with duct dependent but dual-source pulmonary blood flow (PBF) were included. Major stent-related complications, in-hospital course, stent patency up to 6 months, and unplanned re-interventions were studied, as well the percentage of stent material resorbed in patients in whom the stents were explanted at the surgery.

Results:

IBS Angel™ was successfully implanted in all nine patients (mean weight range 3.4 ± 0.4 kg). Six were pulmonary atresia with an intact ventricular septum and 1 critical pulmonary stenosis patients where PDA stenting was done together or after balloon dilation. The mean procedure and fluoroscopy times were 89 ± 39 min and 16.3 ± 6.9 min, respectively. There were no major complications such as stent thrombosis or embolization and there were no in-hospital deaths. Post procedure overshunting and prolonged ventilatory support was a prominent feature. The median ventilation days was 3 (1–11 days). One patient died after 1 month due to respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia at the referring hospital. At 6 months follow-up, four had patent stents and four had blocked or restrictive stent flow. One patient received re-stenting at 4 months for restrictive stent flow. In three patients where microcomputed tomography of explanted stent was available, resorption of iron was 15% at 6 months and >65% at 16 months.

Conclusions:

Ductal stenting with IBS Angel™ is feasible and safe in selected patients. Because of early luminal loss, its use may be recommended for lesions with dual-source PBF with noncomplex PDA morphology that requires a short duration of palliation.
Staged treatment of a premature newborn with interrupted aortic arch and aorta-pulmonary window using intraoperative hybrid procedure before subsequent total correction – Long-term follow-up
Authors: Weryński Piotr , Malinowska-Weryńska Agnieszka , Wójcik Agnieszka , Kołcz Jacek
Published: August 2022

Interrupted aortic arch (IAA) associated with an aortopulmonary window (APW) is a rare cardiac malformation that needs an immediate diagnosis after birth and surgical treatment to avoid irreversible pulmonary lesions. Herein, we describe a case of successful staged treatment of premature neonate using many operative procedures. The first stage was stenting of patent ductus arteriosus with banding of pulmonary artery branches using a hybrid approach. At the age of one, he underwent total correction of malformation using Gore-Tex patch. Two procedures of implantation and redilatation of the previously implanted stents were performed in the following years. In the 8-year follow-up, the patient has been in good clinical condition, without cardiac symptoms. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report representing such a long-term follow-up of treatment of IAA accompanied by APW.
Transcatheter closure of multiple secundum atrial septal defects using multiple occluder devices
Authors: Sagar Pramod , Sivakumar Kothandam , Chandrasekaran Ramyashri , Pavithran Sreeja , Thejaswi Puthiyedath , Monica Rajendran
Published: August 2022

Background:

Device closure of multiple atrial septal defects (MASDs) is frequently done using a single centrally deployed septal or cribriform occluder, but multiple devices are needed for large defects separated more than 6 mm. There is a concern about complications while using multiple devices, especially in children.

Methods:

Patients who received multiple devices for closure of MASD were grouped according to their age and analyzed for procedural techniques, immediate and late complications. MASDs closed by a single device were not included. Balloon sizing was done when echocardiographic images were suboptimal before simultaneous device deployment through two venous accesses or sequential deployment through one access. Duration and number of antiplatelet drugs and residual flows were analyzed on follow-up.

Results:

Twenty-five patients received multiple devices. Balloon interrogation was performed in 16/18 adults but only in 2/7 children. Device size was 2–5 mm larger than echocardiographic defect size or equal to balloon waist. There were no procedural failures; 7/25 showed small postprocedural residual flows. Complications including embolization in one, arrhythmia in one, and cobra deformity in two were managed successfully. On a median follow-up of 5.5 years (1–12 years), residual flows disappeared in 4/7 and there were no major late complications.

Conclusions:

Use of multiple devices for closing MASD is feasible with good technical success. Echocardiography and balloon interrogation are the keys for success. Simultaneous deployment is often needed and sequential delivery is feasible rarely if the defects are far apart. Minor residual leaks are common but improve on follow-up. There are no significant new complications on long-term follow-up.
Melody valve-in-valve implantation in the tricuspid position through a Fontan conduit fenestration
Authors: Duarte Daniel , Prieto Lourdes Rosa , Suntharos Patcharapong
Published: August 2022

Patients with single right ventricle and tricuspid regurgitation have increased morbidity and mortality rates. The outcomes of surgical tricuspid valve repair and replacement are dismal. Although some centers prefer valve replacement with a bioprosthetic valve in the tricuspid position for the pediatric population, these valves have limited longevity and will eventually need to be replaced. Unfortunately, single ventricle patients are fragile and unlikely to tolerate a second replacement. Percutaneous valve-in-valve (ViV) implantation is an acceptable alternative with low morbidity and mortality. Studies have also shown acceptable short- and mid-term outcomes. We report a case of Melody ViV placement in the tricuspid position in a patient with hypoplastic left heart syndrome through the fenestration of a Fontan conduit.
Comparative Histological Study of Therapeutic Effect of Mesenchymal Stem Cells versus Mesenchymal Stem Cells Co-Cultured with Liver Tissue on Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Hepatotoxicity in Adult Male Albino Rats
Authors: Salem Bothina Abo-Alazm , ElKaliny Heba Hassan , El-Hafez Amal Ali Ahmed Abd , Sarhan Naglaa Ibrahim
Published: August 2022

Context:

Liver diseases are major causes of morbidity and mortality. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antifibrotic effects, so they can be used in the treatment of liver diseases. MSCs co-cultured with diseased liver tissue improve the homing capacity, survival rate, and paracrine effects of the MSCs, as well as the ability to enhance liver function.

Aims:

This work aimed to study the therapeutic effect of MSCs versus MSCs co-cultured with liver tissue on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced hepatotoxicity in adult male albino rats.

Settings and Design:

Twenty adult male albino rats were divided into four equal groups; Group I (control group), Group II received CCl4 intraperitoneally (i.p.), Group III received CCl4 i.p. and then injected with MSCs intravenously (i.v.), and Group IV received CCl4 i.p. and then injected with co-cultured MSCs i.v.

Materials and Methods:

Finally, liver specimens were processed for light microscopy (LM) and electron microscopy (EM). Statistical analysis was carried out to assess histological scoring, area percentage of collagen fibers, number of glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive cells, and biochemical analysis of alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis of (histological scoring, area % of collagen fibers, and biochemical analysis) was done by using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test using graphpad software (SanDiego, CA, USA). The means ± standard deviations were used for statistical analysis.

Results:

LM of Group II revealed loss of hepatic architecture and diffuse fibrosis with dilated congested blood vessels, bile ductular proliferation, and cellular infiltrations. Vacuolated cytoplasm with or without pyknotic nuclei was observed in addition to micro- and macro-steatosis. EM demonstrated disfigured hepatocytes with abnormal organelles surrounding atypical nucleus. Group III showed restoration of the normal liver architecture with greater extent in Group IV. Statistical analysis confirmed the microscopic findings.

Conclusions:

Co-cultured MSCs with diseased liver tissue augmented the therapeutic effects of MSCs in treating hepatotoxicity induced by CCl4 in adult male albino rats.
The level of microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 as a marker of autophagy in skin lesions of nonsegmental vitiligo
Authors: Marey Yomna K.A.-H , Elgarhy Lamia H. , Albendary Amal S. , Abdel-Latif Amany M.
Published: August 2022

Background

The aim was to understand the etiology of vitiligo, many hypotheses have been proposed. Melanocyte survival and skin pigmentation abnormalities may be linked to autophagy deficiencies. Microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) is one of the most important indicators of this process.

Aim

The current study seeks to determine the level of LC3 in patients with nonsegmental vitiligo with lesional and nonlesional skin in comparison with normal skin to indicate the level of autophagy in a trial to elucidate a possible relation with the pathogenesis of vitiligo.

Patients and methods

The study included 20 patients with nonsegmental vitiligo from whom 20 lesional skin biopsies and 14 biopsies of nonlesional skin were obtained. Moreover, 14 normal skin specimens were taken from healthy individuals as controls. LC3 level was measured in the skin biopsies using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The level of LC3 in the lesional and nonlesional skin biopsies of the patients was significantly lower than the control group. Female participants showed lower levels of LC3 than male with a significant difference. The ability of the level of LC3 in lesional and nonlesional skin was also investigated using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis for diagnosis of the vitiligo, and the results were of predictive ability with a cutoff value of 128.4 ng/ml.

Conclusion

Lesional and nonlesional skin had lower LC3 levels than normal control skin. So, autophagy deficiency may play a role in vitiligo development.
Assessment of serum level of interleukin-6 in aplastic anemia
Authors: Salama Heba I. , Gwalay Amr M. , Hodeib Hossam A. , Ahmed Aeisha A.
Published: August 2022

Background

Aplastic anemia (AA) is a severe bone marrow failure condition with a high mortality rate in its severe form if left untreated. Interleukin (IL)-6 is a pleiotropic cytokine with various biological activities, including B-cell terminal differentiation, T cell, and macrophage stimulation. Moreover, they are critical for tissue damage in acute inflammation and have also been shown to be potent inhibitors of myelopoiesis.

Aim

Our purpose was to assess IL-6 level in AA patients and to correlate it with AA severity.

Patients and methods

The study was conducted on 40 individuals divided into 20 patients with AA and in-patient clinic of Hematology Department, Faulty of Medicine, Tanta University Hospitals, and 20 apparently healthy participants used as a reference-control group.

Results

Pallor, weakness, and bleeding were present among 95% of the studied AA cases, while fever and infection were found among 90% of the studied AA cases. High levels of IL-6 were observed in AA. A correlation of increased levels with disease severity has been demonstrated.

Conclusion

High levels of IL-6 were observed in AA. Increased levels showed a correlation with disease severity, and therefore appear to play an essential role in AA.
The burden of COVID-19 infection on medical doctors in the first year of the pan-demic in Ghana
Authors: K. Beyuo Titus , R. Lawrence Emma , Selormey Richard , E. Fosu Samuel , K. Ankobea Frank
Published: August 2022

Objective: To quantify and describe the burden of COVID-19 infection amongst doctors in GhanaDesign: A quantitative and qualitative analysis of cross-sectional data was performed.Setting: All 16 regions in Ghana.Participants: Participants were medical doctors diagnosed with COVID-19 between March 2020 and March 2021.Main outcome measures: Data sources were Ghana Medical Association and Ministry of Health records. De-mographics and workplace data included age, gender, the rank of the doctor, and location and type of current facility. Characteristics of the COVID-19 infection included the likely source, clinical and recovery status, and place of man-agement. Doctors reported their desire for a general checkup and psychological support and described the challenges encountered.Results: The prevalence of COVID-19 infection was 88.9 cases per 1000 doctor-population. Of 544 infected doctors, 59.2% were stable but symptomatic, and 1.7% were in critical condition, with a case fatality rate of 1.7%. Overall, 31.6% had recovered from their COVID-19 infection, and the majority (82.4%) were managed at home in self-isola-tion. Compared to medical officers, house officers (OR 1.36, p=0.03), senior house officers (OR 7.60, p<0.001), and consultants (OR 2.94, p=0.001) were more likely to have a COVID-19 infection. Desire for support was varied, with 13.0% desiring someone to check on them and 9.7% desiring psychological support. The majority (75.3%) reported facing a challenge, including difficulty obtaining needed vitamins and medications, and accessing daily necessities like groceries.Conclusions: In Ghana, COVID-19 infections greatly burden medical doctors.
Feasibility and reliability of measuring muscle stiffness in Parkinson’s Disease using MyotonPRO device in a clinical setting in Ghana
Authors: W Agoriwo Mary , E Muckelt Paul , O Yeboah Cynthia , E. A. Sankah Beatrice , Agyapong-Badu Sandra , Akpalu Albert , Stokes Maria
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To examine the feasibility and within-session reliability of Myoton technology to measure muscle stiff-ness objectively in people with Parkinson’s disease in an outpatient settingDesign: An exploratory quantitative study design was used.Setting: The study was conducted in the outpatient physiotherapy department of a Teaching Hospital in Ghana. Par-ticipants were recruited from three sites.Participants: Thirty adults with Parkinson’s disease over 18 years with increased tone (muscle stiffness) and at Hoehn and Yahr Stages I-III were studied. Persons with severe co-morbidities were excluded.Intervention: There was no intervention before testing. The MyotonPRO device measured the mechanical properties of the biceps brachii, flexor carpi radialis and tibialis anterior muscles in a relaxed supine position. The probe applied mechanical impulses to the skin, eliciting tissue oscillations. The muscles’ three parameters (stiffness, non-neural tone and elasticity) were recorded bilaterally. The reliability of two sets (of 5 impulses) of Myoton data on all three muscles was examined.Results: All 30 participants (66.3±8.9 years) were recruited and tested within eight weeks. Intraclass correlation co-efficients (ICC 3,2) were above 0.92 for biceps brachii and tibialis anterior and above 0.86 for flexor carpi radialis.Conclusion: The MyotonPRO was reliable for measuring two sets of data within the same session, indicating that only one set of measurements is needed. The technique is feasible and easy to use in a clinical setting in Ghana, with the potential to assess the effect of medical and physiotherapy interventions on muscles in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Impact of a new conceptualized anti-reflux Trumpet stent on the quality of life of patients with advanced carcinoma of the cardio-oesophageal junction
Authors: D. Tata Mahadevan , Q. A. Mahazir Nur , W. Keat Ooi , A. S. Burud Ismail
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To evaluate a newly developed, self-expandable anti-reflux Trumpet (ART) stent customized for cardio oesophageal junctional (COJ) cancer on the feasibility of deployment, stent migration, quality of life, and symptom reliefDesign: Prospective case series, Proof of concept pilot studySetting: Tertiary Health Care Center, Hospital Tuanku Jaafar, Seremban, Malaysia. Department of Surgery.Participants: A total of 17 patients diagnosed with advanced COJ tumour and who had never undergone any surgical, endoscopic, or chemoradiotherapy and indicated for stenting were recruitedInterventions: The study period was over nine months, and follow-up was one-month post-stenting.Main outcome measures: Endpoint measures were feasibility of deployment of the new design, symptoms relief, early stent migration, early complication, GERD Q score, and (QOL)assessment.Results: The ART stent was inserted successfully in all cases (17/17, 100%). There were two stent migrations due to the flexibility of the stent at the neck. There were no early or post-stenting one-month complications associated with the procedure. A good flow of contrast was seen in all the stents deployed. GERD Q score was low in all patients pre and post-stenting. Post-stenting there was a relief of dysphagia, weight gain, and a 60% improvement in QOL score.Conclusions: ART stent is feasible and technically successful in COJ tumours. It provides good symptom relief, improves the QOL, and has minimal early complications.
Length-of-stay after a health facility birth and associated factors: analysis of data from three Sub-Saharan African countries
Authors: I. Tsiga-Ahmed Fatimah , I. Jalo Rabiu , M. Ibrahim Usman , A. Kwaku Aminatu , A. Umar Amina , M. Sanusi Surayya , G. Amole Taiwo
Published: August 2022

Objectives: We estimated the length-of-stay (LOS) in the health facility after childbirth and identified associated factors in three sub-Saharan African countries.Design: Secondary analysis using data from the most recent Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys.Setting: Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys from Ghana, Malawi and Eswatini were selected.Participants: Women aged 15-49 years who had a facility delivery in the two years preceding the survey were in-cluded.Main outcome measures: Length-of-stay recorded in days and weeks were converted to hours and analysed as a continuous variable.Results: Length-of-stay was estimated for 9147 women, wherein 6610 women (median LOS and IQR: 36 36,60 hours), 1698 women (median LOS and IQR 36 10,60 hours) and 839 women (median-length-stay 36 36,60 hours) were from Malawi, Ghana and Eswatini respectively. Being from Ghana [RC, -20.6 (95%CI:-25.2 - -16.0)] and then Eswatini [RC: -13.0 (95%CI: -19.9 - -9.8)] and delivery in a government hospital [RC: -4.9 (95%CI -9.9- -0.3)] were independently associated with having a shorter LOS. Having a caesarean section, assistance by Nurses/Mid-wives or Auxiliaries/CHOs, single birth, heavier birth weight, and death of newborn before discharge increased the duration of stay.Conclusions: Necessitating and facility factors are important determinants of length of stay. Socio-demographic characteristics, however, have a restricted role in influencing the duration of postpartum stay in sub-Saharan Africa. Further prospective research is required to identify more determinants and provide evidence for policy formulation and clinical guidelines regarding the safest time for discharge after delivery.
Prevalence, determinants and coercive strategies relating to marital rape among women in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: O. Ogunwale Akintayo , F. Afolabi Rotimi
Published: August 2022

Objectives: The study assessed the prevalence, determinants and coercive strategies relating to Marital Rape (MR) among women in Oyo State, Nigeria.Design: A cross-sectional surveySetting: The study was conducted in 120 communities, 30 wards, 6 Local Government Areas in Oyo State.Participants: A total of 1200 ever-married women aged 18–60 years were recruited using a multi-stage sampling.Methods: The participants were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire which captured MR-related expe-riences and coercive strategies. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square, and logistic regression. Odds ratios (OR) and their corresponding 95% Confidence Interval (CI) were reported.Results: Respondents’ mean age was 36.6±9.6 years, while husbands’ mean age was 42.1±10.3 years. Most (n=1094, 91.2%) respondents had ever married once and 82.8% (n=993) were currently married. The prevalence of MR was 15.3%. Physical force (n=153, 25.9%), followed by threat (n=139, 23.5%) topped the list of coercive strategies in-volved in MR. Currently, married women were at a higher risk of MR (OR: 2.73, CI: 1.39-5.37, P = 0.04) relative to divorced women. Respondents whose husbands were aged <30 years were at lower risk of MR (OR:0.03, CI: 0.002–0.47, P=0.01). Women who take decisions on sex alone were more likely to suffer MR (OR:3.95, CI: 1.38 – 11.31, P=0.01).Conclusions: Marital rape existed among women with increased risk among those who were currently married, mar-ried to older partners or sole decision-makers on sex. Physical force was the commonest coercive strategy used to facilitate MR. Community-based MR -related interventions are recommended.
Assessment of the Perception of Tourist and Community Development of Olumirin Erin Ijesha Waterfall, Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Olubunmi-Ojo T. T. , Anosike U. M. , Omotoba N. I. , Osamor M.
Published: August 2022

This study assesses the perception of tourist and community development of Olumirin Erin-Ijesha waterfall, Osun state, Nigeria using Semi-structured questionnaire to collect information from one hundred and fifty (150) respondents. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The results of the demographic characteristics of the respondents reveals that 85% of the respondents in Olumirin Waterfalls are male and 60% of the respondents are married and those with secondary education has the highest representation 90% The age distributions with the higher percentages are 32 – 38 with 75%. Category of the tourist showed that 94% of respondents are Nigerians (local/regional tourism or inbound tourism). Those staying for less than 24 hours have the higher percentage 94% indicating that tourists are mainly excursionist. Visitors’ control and management that charging of entrance fees has a higher representation (90%) as indicated by the employees. The table further revealed the visitors and site management in which visitors’ influx into the site has been on the increase as claimed by all the employees. Table 4 revealed the tourists appreciation, participation and sensitivity to the site, it was revealed that 54% of the respondents claimed they do not patronise the wares sold in the site and community while 38% does. All the respondents indicated that they would like to re-visit the site. The tourist perception towards ecotourism in the study area showed that 78% of the respondents indicated that ecotourism does more good than harm while 12% gave no answer to the question. Self-assessment by Tourists on their knowledge about ecotourism shows that 38% have excellent knowledge about what ecotourism is. The contribution of Olumirin waterfall to community development revealed that 84% of respondents believed that the development of facilities/infrastructures is due to the presence of the waterfall in the community while 16% indicated otherwise.
A Case for Adoption of Industry-Wide Application of Solar Disinfection of Packaged Drinking Water Before Distribution in Nigeria
Authors: Nwankwo E. J. , Odenigbo C.
Published: August 2022

The study makes a case for adoption of an industry-wide application of solar disinfection (SODIS) in the disinfection of packaged water at the production stage. To do this, 60 samples, comprising 12 brands of bottled water and 18 brands of sachet-packaged water were randomly purchased from street vendors in Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria and investigated. One sample was hidden from sunlight while the other sample was exposed to a day of sunlight before the two samples were subjected to microbial analysis for the determination of total coliform (TC) using the method of multiple-tube fermentation technique (MPN). Results show that 63% of packaged water vended in Nsukka is not fit for consumption. The risk of contamination is about 44% higher in sachet water when compared with bottled water (relative risk = 1.44). Exposing packaged water to a day of sunlight reduces the risk of consuming contaminated water by about 97% (relative risk reduction value = 0.97). Advocacy of industry-wide application of SODIS may hold the key to ending widespread contamination of packaged water and the resulting life-threatening illnesses that have decimated the population of developing countries.
Problems of Concluding Surrogacy Agreements: Practice of Ukraine and the EU
Authors: Tarasevych Tetiana Y. , Melnyk Yaroslav Y. , Melnyk Mariіa B. , Krushelnytska Hanna L. , Hrytsenko Halyna H.
Published: August 2022

The aim of the article was to identify and analyses typical problems of concluding surrogacy agreements in the context of supranational challenges and pandemics. This aim was achieved with a view to the peculiarities of the legal status of surrogacy in leading European countries. Methods of observation, comparative legal analysis and legal simulation became the basic methodological tools. The study resulted in grouping of the European countries according to the state of surrogacy legalization, as well as outlining the leading problems of concluding and executing surrogacy agreements. It was stated that women in current realities are becoming commercial gestational carriers, and are not acting in the best interests of the child. The study proves a high degree of levelling of the terms of surrogacy agreements in Ukraine, which requires immediate legislator’s response. It is argued that the approach to altruistic surrogacy has the potential to eradicate commercial agreements in a cross-border context. Further author’s research will focus on establishing a unified and optimally effective international approach to solving problems of concluding surrogacy agreements.
Formation of priority tasks and strategies for education highly qualified political scientists: European experience, and Ukrainian practice
Authors: Bader Anton , Vovk Svitlana , Novoskoltseva Liudmyla , Rusanova Maryna , Saienko Volodymyr
Published: August 2022

The aim of our study is to examine the experience of European countries in strategies for the development of the training of highly qualified specialists in political science. The task of the article is to identify the advantages of European university and non-university systems of political science education, in order to develop proposals to improve the level of political science teaching in Ukraine. The work uses theoretical research methods, among which the axiomatic, historical and structural-comparative methods stand out. It was found that the teaching of political science in European universities focuses on the acquisition of practical skills, but despite all the difficulties in the training of political scientists in Ukraine, the curricula of Ukrainian universities correspond in many respects with European standards. The conclusions indicate that the practical part of political science teaching does not play a minor role than the theoretical one. In Ukraine, education is not provided in institutes, while university curricula are mostly theoretical.
Dynamics, Stability & Tradition: The Role of the Religions of Iranian Speakers in Central and Eastern Asia
Authors: Kasai Yukiyo
Published: August 2022

Various religions were transmitted through the Silk Roads, a famous system of trade routes. For this transmission, the Iranian speakers played a vital role. They travelled on the Silk Roads, migrating and establishing colonies alongside their trade networks and leading to the geographical expansion of their activity fields. Because of their vast activities, some Iranian languages are counted as a lingua franca, or the shared language for communication, on the Silk Roads. The Iranian speakers adhered to Buddhism, Christianity (Church of the East), Islam, Manichaeism, or Zoroastrianism. Some kept the religious practices of their homeland in these newly established colonies, while others converted to the local dominant religions. At times, their religious activities resulted in dynamic changes for themselves and their exchange partners whilst, at other times, they led to the establishment of new traditions which became stabilised within their settled communities.
Advertisement Strategies adopted for Confectionery Products by FMCG Companies in India
Authors: Pranjale Ruchira , Anute Nilesh
Published: August 2022

The main objective of writing this paper is to study the advertising strategies adopted by various FMCG Companies with reference to Confectionery Product such as Chocolates, Biscuits, Snacks and Jellies. In today’s scenario advertising a product has become the major source for companies to create awareness in the market. Most of the companies have their focus upon the appeals that they used to make people come to know from their advertisements. Various Promotional Tools they use and advertising is the major one. The enterprises in the confectionery industry produce a variety of chocolate, candies, chewing gum, and other products made from cocoa. Commercial confections are sweetened using a variety of syrups, including maize syrup. Historically, the military has developed chocolate as a high-density nutritional energy source. These items may be used to improve oral health, increase energy, or boost immunity. The inclusion of sweeteners, often sugars, defines confectioneries. Invert sugar, a common ingredient that is sweeter and is produced when sucrose is hydrolyzed. Different syrups, including maize syrup, are used to sweeten commercial confections. The term "confectionery" refers to a class of contemporary foods like chocolate and other confections that have high artificial sweetener content. The military had used to develop specially prepared chocolates historically as a high-density nutritional energy source. The confectionery sector is a collection of sizeable businesses that create a range of chocolate, candy, chewing gum, and other items manufactured from cocoa. These products might be used to boost immunity, give people more energy, or enhance dental health.
Дејан Попов ХОРСКО ПЕВАЊЕ КАО НАЧИН ОЧУВАЊА КУЛТУРНО- -НАЦИОНАЛНОГ ИДЕНТИТЕТА СРБА СА ДАНАШЊЕ ТЕРИТОРИЈЕ РУМУНИЈЕ
Authors: Попов Дејан
Published: August 2022

Continuing the topic started at the previous conference, this article continues to analyse various aspects of choral singing, as part of a long and rich tradition of the Serbian ethnic community living on the present territory of Romania. This time, this topic is regarded from the perspective of the village choirs, which started to emerge towards the end of the 19th century. Although most of them had a primary liturgical function, they did bear a strong national component reflected mainly, but not exclusively in the repertoire. Thus, choral singing in the rural areas became a means of preserving the cultural and national identity throughout the times, following the ongoing geo-political contexts.
SERBIAN CHURCH MUSIC IN BANAT - HISTORICAL ASPECTS
Authors: Călin Boba Adrian
Published: August 2022

Serbian church music includes, in addition to the church compositions of Serbian composers, the folk song of the church. The song of the Serbian church represents, according to its characteristics, acquired during the historical development, an original work, created with the help of the influence of the church and the people. How fast the Serbian church folk song developed towards independence, from the adoption of Christianity until the middle of the 13th century and how much it could separate from its model in that short time, cannot be determined, because there are no data. about that and there are no records. In the Serbian autocephalous archdiocese (since 1219) and later the Patriarchate of Peci (since 1346), the care of Serbian church leaders, which is reflected in numerous donations, has created favorable opportunities for the full expansion of church life. With the transfer of the people and national and church leaders to the Habsburg Empire, many of them in the region of Banat, the singing of the church, in the more favorable circumstances of the civilized state, developed freely, but increasingly independent of the distant model. Church authorities have taken steps to preserve, renew and develop the song. With the founding of the seminary in Sremski Karlovci in 1794 and the appointment of the first teacher of church singing in 1797, an important center was created for maintaining a certain unity in church singing. The most difficult and important, however, is the problem of the structure and essence of Serbian folk church singing.
EVIDÊNCIA CIENTÍFICA NO USO DA OSTEOPATIA E HIPNOSE CLÍNICA NO TRATAMENTO DOS SINTOMAS DA COVID-19
Authors: Morais Daunisa Gabriel Comprido , João António dos Santos , Mainato Idalina Alberto Baptista , Santos Julio César dos
Published: August 2022

O objetivo desta  revisão bibliográfica . O método da revisão foi de consulta à base de dados dos períodicos PubMed, Periódicos capes, ResearchGate, Jstor, BVS Saúde, do período de 2015 a 2020 com busca avançada cruzada entre o primeiro nome em inglês e português “osteopatia e hipnose clínica” com as variações das palavras: infecção, pneumonia e doenças do aparelho respiratório. Foram encontrados seis estudos com foco em pacientes hospitalizados, dos 638 artigos da osteopatia e 359 da hipnose clínica que atenderam aos critérios de inclusão da revisão bibliográfica. Dentre as técnicas encontradas de uso da Osteopatia estava o tratamento osteopático manipulativo (TMO) na melhoria da dor músculo esquelética, uma das queixas comuns entre os pacientes na pandemia. Para uso de hipnose clínica encontrou-se a utilização da técnica de tratamento de oito sessões em grupo de pacientes, como também em sessões individuais em pacientes com supervisão clínica semestral.
Procedimiento de Antebrazo de Hueso Único para Tratamiento de Pseudoartrosis de Radio y Cubito Asociado a Luxación Radial Proximal
Authors: Martínez Chejin José Fernando , Enríquez Romo Pablo Mauricio , Peralta Gonzalez Kleber Michael
Published: August 2022

La funcionalidad de la extremidad superior depende de una serie de estructuras musculoesqueleticas, óseas, nerviosas y vasculares, las que trabajan en conjunto para poder dar entre otras funciones un adecuado punto de apoyo, vitalidad y ubicación espacial, en ultimo termino al accionar de la mano.

Las lesiones ocurridas en el área del antebrazo pueden producir que se pierda esta función o que el paciente sufra un gran déficit funcional, dolor crónico, y disminución de la calidad de vida. Es así que patologías como fracturas expuestas severas, infecciones, deformidades secuelares, pueden afectar severamente al antebrazo y algunas de ellas presentan un desafío al momento de plantear algún procedimiento reconstructivo

El procedimiento quirúrgico de confección de brazo único se utiliza cuando los protocolos convencionales que han fallado o cuya patología implica una posible amputación de la extremidad; en éste, se realiza una cirugía mediante la cual se hace uso de un cubito y un radio severamente lesionados para obtener un solo hueso el cual pueda recobrar la forma y funcionalidad del antebrazo es una herramienta muy útil para tratar lesiones graves, reduciendo el riesgo de amputaciones como opción definitiva y devolviendo una funcionalidad parcial al paciente afecto.

Hay poca información sobre estos procedimientos debido a que es una opción final, la cual se considera al no haber más alternativas y en la que se pueda conservar la extremidad, teniendo generalmente como antecedente, el haber agotado otros procedimientos correctivos o una evolución de patología incorregible por otro medio.
Aloinjerto Óseo Estructural en Cirugía de Salvamento de Extremidades
Authors: Silva Acosta Favio Sebastian , Criollo Palacios Felipe Sebastián
Published: August 2022

Objetivo: Compilar bibliografía medica sobre la osteointegración, funcionalidad y complicaciones del uso de aloinjerto estructural en pacientes con defectos óseos del esqueleto apendicular que fueron sometidos a cirugía de salvamento de extremidades.

Material y método: Se realizó una búsqueda con el fin de encontrar fuentes de datos digitales que hicieron énfasis en las palabras claves. Se consultó en los buscadores digitales: Cochrane – PubMed – ScienceDirect, con parámetros de inclusión y exclusión.

Resultados y discusión: Se tomaron en cuenta 18 artículos que cumplieron los criterios establecidos. El 83 % fueron series de casos (SC) y 17 % revisiones sistemáticas – metaanálisis (RS). Los 15 artículos de SC fueron validados con la escala MinCir con un promedio de 16.33 puntos (IC: 95%: 14,39 y 18,27); y los 3 artículos de RS fueron validados con la escala PRISMA un promedio de 18.66 puntos (IC: 95%: 14,11 y 22,55); el 17 % con un nivel de eviden­cia III, 11 % de nivel lll – IV y el restante 72 % de nivel IV. La supervivencia de las reconstrucciones óseas con el aporte biológico fue del 88.14 % en promedio, con seguimiento posterior hasta 15 años, con un grado excelente de osteointegración, funcionalidad buena. Con complicaciones mecánicas, pseudoartrosis e infecciones dentro de las más prevalentes.

Conclusiones: Se considera que los aloinjertos óseos estructurales en resecciones óseas conservadoras son beneficiosos para cubrir defectos óseos, con adecuada osteointegración y funcionalidad. Con complicaciones que pueden ser evadidas con el correcto uso de protocolos de manejo clínico – quirúrgico, individualizando cada caso.
Complicaciones agudas en pacientes con COVID-19.
Authors: García Casanova Teddy Javier , Chávez Maldonado Verónica Alejandra , Pinargote Rodríguez Tania Lourdes
Published: August 2022

Introducción: Covid-19 cursa con varias complicaciones agudas, que afectan el pronóstico de los pacientes. 

Objetivo: Exponer las complicaciones agudas que presentan con mayor frecuencia en salas de emergencias los pacientes con Covid-19

Materiales y métodos: Revisión teórica. Fuentes de información: bases de datos especializadas: Pubmed, BMC, Wiley Online Library. Se incluyeron estudios publicados entre 2020 - 2021, revisiones sistemáticas, observacionales, retrospectivos; con adultos, con diagnóstico de complicaciones asociadas a infección por SARS-COV-2. Se descargaron los que cumplían con los criterios de selección establecidos. Se realizó un análisis más profundo y se extrajo la información necesaria para dar respuesta a la pregunta de esta investigación. Se utilizó como estor de bibliografía el programa Mendeley v 19.4.1.

Resultados: 44 artículos fueron incluidos. El 72,3% (n=32) fue publicado en el año 2020; el 25% (n=11) en China, el 31,8% (n=14) en los Estados Unidos; el 40,9% (n=18) era un artículo de revisión y, la mayoría fue identificado en los buscadores Pubmed (n=26; 59,1%) y Biomed Central (BMC: n=12; 27,3%). Se describieron las recomendaciones actuales de tratamiento de complicaciones como el distrés respiratorio agudo, insuficiencia coronaria, hepática y renal, fenómenos tromboembólicos y complicaciones neurológicas en el curso de Covid-19.

Conclusiones: Covid-19 es una enfermedad multisistémica, con amplio espectro de complicaciones agudas. El tratamiento a estas complicaciones no difiere sustancialmente del protocolo habitual, compromete el pronóstico y se relacionan con altos costos de tratamiento e incremento de la mortalidad, lo que evidencia la necesidad de profundizar en la estandarización de estos protocolos de tratamiento.