bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The disappearance as a way of living: Reconciliation with the loss and the paradoxes of human memory in the works of Ogawa Yōko and Kawakami Hiromi
Authors: Borkina A. Yu.
Published: July 2022

The article deals with the representation of the problem of memory in contemporary Japanese fiction. Ogawa Yōko’s novel «The Memory Police» and Kawakami Hiromi’s story «To Disappear», chosen for the analysis, demonstrate similar approaches and some parallels in terms of plot structure. In «The Memory Police», there is a young writer in the center of the narration, who lives on an island where things and memories about them disappear, whereas some people are «immune» to forgetting things and are prosecuted. The main character of «To Disappear» lives in a strange world where people go missing, change their shapes, and communicate with the mystical forces. The memories about those who disappeared vanish, and the main character is the only one who keeps the fragments of the past. For these women, the contact with something missing becomes a tool to form so-called «postmemory», recollection of the events they have not witnessed, as well as a device to fight the unfair social system (the Police and the patriarchal community respectively). Disappearance in Ogawa and Kawakami’s works is also connected with the bodies’ deformation and the following loss of self-identity. Finally, the problems of memory and corporeality loss are linked to the women’s question in the works mentioned above. The loss of voice by the main character in «The Memory Police», the history of family disappearance in «To Disappear» – all these plot lines correspond with the main issues represented in contemporary Japanese women fiction. To sum up, these two works represent a new type of world-view and existence, moving away from the usual model of «personal space». Escapism is hyperbolized, disappearance becomes a way of living, and the written narration is the only chance to leave a trace and to connect to memories and one’s own history.
Russian-Japanese relations after Abe: A new stress test?
Authors: Streltsov D. V.
Published: July 2022

The article addresses qualitative changes in Russian-Japanese relations that occurred after the resignation of Shinzō Abe from the position of Prime Minister in 2020 due to the transformation of the international environment and domestic political developments in both countries. Among the international factors contributing to the deterioration of bilateral relations, the author particularly mentions confrontation between the Kremlin and the U.S after the change of administration in Washington in 2021, as well as a new aggravation of the situation around Ukraine in 2022. Continuing formation of a new system of geopolitical coordinates in Asia, in which only China can be considered by Russia an actual ally, while Japan, along with many of Russia’s Asian partners linked to the U.S., found themselves in the opposing camp, also played a role.

The author focuses on the change in the Russian position on the issue of the peace treaty with Japan. The course was taken to demonstrate to Japan the futility of its stance on the issue of border demarcation with Russia. There has also been a transformation of the place and role of Japan in the internal ideological and propaganda discourse of Russia, where the focus on the «crimes of Japanese militarism» in East Asian countries is becoming increasingly evident. At the same time, the author considers Moscow’s critical attitude towards Japan not the result of a conscious ideological campaign directed specifically against Japan, but rather a reflection of the general atmosphere in the socio-political life of Russia.

The author believes that the acquisition of a new «unfriendly» state in the face of Japan on the Far Eastern borders will become a military and political risk factor for Russia and will inevitably damage its security. Meanwhile, Russia should rethink its position given that, geostrategically, it is important for it to have strong partnership relations with Japan.
Transmisi Vertikal COVID 19 selama Kehamilan
Authors: Christyani Fenyta , Padang Astrid Fransisca
Published: July 2022

Wabah Coronavirus (COVID-19) yang terjadi sejak Desember 2019 saat ini sudah menjadi pandemi global. Virus ini menimbulkan infeksi saluran pernafasan dari ringan hingga berat. Kondisi ini perlu menjadi perhatian lebih jika terjadi saat kehamilan karena perubahan fisiologi dalam kehamilan memengaruhi perjalanan virus COVID-19. Selain itu risiko transmisi ke janin secara vertikal dan transversal juga perlu diperhatikan karena akan menimbulkan morbiditas seperti persalinan prematur, trombosis, dan pertumbuhan janin terhambat.

The Coronavirus infection (COVID-19) outbreak that occurred in December 2019 now become a global pandemic. The virus cause mild to severe respiratory tract infection. Infections during pregnancy may cause physiological changes that affect the course of the COVID-19 virus itself. The risk of vertical and transversal transmission to the fetus also needs to be considered as it may result in several conditions such as preterm labor, thrombosis, and fetal growth restriction.
Tatalaksana Demam pada Anak
Authors: - Carlson , Kurnia Bella
Published: July 2022

Demam merupakan sebuah proses alamiah sebagai mekanisme pertahanan tubuh terhadap patogen, namun suhu yang terlalu tinggi sering menimbulkan kekhawatiran orangtua. Terdapat berbagai variasi kisaran suhu normal pada anak menurut tempat pengukurannya. Tatalaksana demam yang terutama yaitu antipiretik seperti parasetamol atau ibuprofen. Beberapa studi menemukan bahwa kombinasi antipiretik memberikan efek antipiretik lebih tinggi, namun belum dapat direkomendasikan karena belum ada studi keamanannya. Metode kompres hangat dapat diberikan sebagai terapi tambahan. Penggunaan antipiretik sesuai dosis rekomendasi ditambah kompres hangat sudah terbukti efektif menurunkan demam pada anak terutama di 30 menit pertama.

Fever is a natural process as a defense mechanism to pathogen, but high fever can be a problem and worried the parents. Variation of temperature range for children depends on the measurement site. The main treatment of fever in children is the use of antipyretic agent such as paracetamol/acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Some studies showed that combination will give a better and significant results, but still not recommended for daily practice because of lack of safety evidence. Tepid sponging can be given as an adjuvant therapy. Proper doses of antipyretics combined with non-pharmacological therapies like tepid sponging is proven to be effective to reduce fever in children especially the first 30 minutes. Carlson, Bella
Update on Hand Osteoarthritis: A Neglected Problem
Authors: Daniella Dian , - Marianto
Published: July 2022

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common rheumatologic disease and one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. Hand OA is the most common OA types after knee and hip OA. Risk factors include age, obesity, and family history. Abnormal mechanical loads, sex hormones, and inflammatory changes play role in pathogenesis of hand OA. Diagnosis is primarily based on clinical examination according to ACR guidelines. Plain radiography may support the diagnosis. ACR 2019 recommends comprehensive individualized treatment which include single or combination of physical, psychosocial, and/or pharmacological intervention. Topical NSAIDs are conditionally recommended. For initial oral medication, oral NSAIDs are strongly recommended and preferable to other medications. Exercise is also strongly recommended. Hand orthoses are highly recommended for patients with first CMCJ OA and conditionally recommended for patients with OA in other joints of the hand.

Osteoartritis (OA) adalah penyakit reumatologis paling umum dan salah satu penyebab utama kecacatan di seluruh dunia. Osteoartritis tangan adalah jenis OA yang paling umum setelah OA lutut dan pinggul. Faktor risiko penyakit ini adalah usia, obesitas, dan riwayat keluarga. Beban mekanis abnormal, hormon seks, dan reaksi inflamasi juga berperan pada patogenesis OA tangan. Diagnosis OA tangan dapat ditegakkan klinis sesuai pedoman ACR. Pemeriksaan radiologis dapat membantu diagnosis. Pedoman ACR 2019 merekomendasikan tatalaksana komprehensif tunggal atau gabungan dari intervensi fisik, psikososial, dan/atau farmakologis sesuai kebutuhan pasien. OAINS topikal direkomendasikan untuk OA tangan pada kondisi tertentu. Untuk pengobatan oral awal, OAINS oral direkomendasikan sebagai pilihan utama. Olahraga sangat direkomendasikan termasuk untuk OA tangan. Orthosis tangan sangat dianjurkan untuk pasien CMCJ OA awal dan direkomendasikan pada pasien OA persendian tangan lain dengan kondisi tertentu.

 
Managing Orthopaedic Care in New Normal Era at East Nusa Tenggara
Authors: IA Rusdianto , IMB Setiawan
Published: July 2022

Until August 2020, more than 23 million cases were confirmed in the world while in Indonesia there were 157,859 confirmed and 112,867 cured cases. East Nusa Tenggara reported 171 cases with 149 recovered and 1 death. The Covid-19 pandemic is still accelerating at an alarming rate; healthcare workers are prone to the infection. In orthopaedic care, there are some major changes in outpatient care and perioperative management. This new regulation also affects patient care as a working hour is limited and some surgical procedures have to be delayed. By strictly adhered to new practices, we hope to achieve the new normal in which orthopaedic surgeons can safely treat emergency and non-emergency patients.

Terhitung sampai Agustus 2020, terdapat lebih dari 23 juta kasus Covid-19 terkonfirmasi di dunia, sedangkan di Indonesia sebanyak 157.859 kasus terkonfirmasi dengan 112.867 orang sembuh. Di Nusa Tenggara Timur tercatat 171 kasus Covid-19 dengan 149 orang sembuh dan 1 kematian. Angka kejadian Covid-19 terus meningkat, dan petugas pelayanan kesehatan rentan terinfeksi Covid-19. Pelayanan ortopedi baik rawat jalan maupun rawat inap mengalami perubahan bermakna. Regulasi baru terkait pandemi berpengaruh terhadap pelayanan pasien karena jam kerja dan beberapa prosedur operasi harus ditunda. Dengan Adaptasi Kegiatan Baru (AKB), petugas kesehatan diharapkan dapat tetap memberikan pelayanan terbaik dan dokter bedah ortopedi dapat dengan aman merawat pasien darurat dan non-darurat.
Gangguan Psikiatri Terkait Kafein
Authors: Prasetio Adrian
Published: July 2022

Kafein merupakan stimulan yang paling sering dikonsumsi manusia di seluruh dunia. Kafein dapat menyebabkan intoksikasi kafein, gangguan cemas akibat kafein, gangguan tidur akibat kafein, gejala putus obat akibat kafein, dan gangguan penggunaan kafein. Terapi antara lain edukasi, pemantauan mandiri, penetapan target pengurangan konsumsi kafein, penetapan jadual penurunan dosis berkala, serta follow up.

Caffeine is the most widely consumed stimulant in the world. Caffeine use can induce caffeine intoxication, caffeine related anxiety related disorder, caffeine related sleep disorder, caffeine related withdrawal symptoms, and caffeine use disorder. Caffeine modification therapy includes education, self-monitoring, determine a caffeine modification goal, determine a dose reduction schedule, offer treatment advice and follow-up.
Suplementasi Vitamin B1 untuk Pasien Sepsis
Authors: Kumala Marcia
Published: July 2022

Sepsis disertai dengan perubahan metabolisme makronutrien maupun mikronutrien yang cepat. Banyak pasien sepsis mengalami malnutrisi serta kekurangan vitamin dan mineral akibat peningkatan kebutuhan nutrisi dan pemberian nutrisi yang tidak adekuat, salah satunya defisiensi vitamin B1 atau tiamin. Suplementasi vitamin B1 dapat dipertimbangkan pada pasien sepsis mengingat manfaat vitamin B1 pada metabolisme tubuh.

Sepsis is characterized by rapid changes in both macronutrients and micronutrients metabolism. Numerous septic patients suffer from malnutrition and vitamin or mineral deficiencies due to high nutritional requirement and inadequate nutrition, among others is vitamin B1 or thiamine deficiency. Vitamin B1 supplementation can be considered for septic patients, as there are many benefits of vitamin B1 to body’s metabolism pathways.
Diagnosis dan Tatalaksana Demam Tifoid pada Dewasa
Authors: Hartanto Darius
Published: July 2022

Demam enterik (demam tifoid dan paratifoid) adalah penyakit yang disebabkan oleh Salmonella enterica serovar typhi (S. typhi) dan paratyphi (S. paratyphi) A dan B. Gejala klinis bervariasi dari ringan sampai berat. Pemeriksaan gold standard untuk demam tifoid adalah kultur darah. Pemeriksaan serologi seperti Widal, Dot Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA), dan uji IgM dipstick juga dapat digunakan untuk diagnosis. Pilihan utama antibiotik tergantung kerentanan kuman S.typhi dan S.paratyphi di area tertentu; golongan fluorokuinolon adalah yang paling efektif.

Enteric fever (typhoid and paratyphoid fever) is infection caused by Salmonella enterica serovar typhi (S. typhi) and paratyphi (S. paratyphi) A dan B. Clinical symptoms are varied from mild to severe. Gold standard for diagnosis is blood culture; serological examination such as Widal, Dot Enzyme Immunoassay (EIA), and IgM dipstick test can be used for diagnosis. Drug of choice depends on antibiotic susceptibility of S. typhi and S. paratyphi in certain area; fluoroquinolone is the most effective antibiotic class.
Mekanisme Gangguan Kardiovaskuler pada Covid-19
Authors: Narang Adhitya Nugraha
Published: July 2022

Keterlibatan jantung lazim terjadi dan menjadi suatu tanda prognostik buruk pada COVID-19; myocard infarct (MCI) dan gagal jantung berkontribusi pada 40% kematian pasien COVID-19. Mekanisme kerusakan organ jantung belum diteliti lebih lanjut, mungkin karena peningkatan kerja jantung akibat kondisi gagal napas dan hipoksemia yang dipicu oleh infeksi COVID-19, adanya infeksi miokard langsung oleh SARS-CoV-2, respon inflamasi sistemik, atau kombinasi tiga faktor tersebut.

Cardiac involvement is common and a poor prognostic factor for COVID-19; myocardial infarction (MCI) and heart failure contribute to 40% death in COVID-19 patients. The mechanism has not been studied thoroughly; this damage may be due to increased heart workload associated with respiratory failure and hypoxemia triggered by COVID-19 infection, direct myocardial infection by SARS-CoV-2, systemic inflammatory response , or a combination of these three factors.
Surgical services during pandemic era in the most remote part in Indonesia
Authors: Koerniawan Heru Sutanto , Halim Freda , Prawira Prajnaariayi , Waine Irene
Published: July 2022

The corona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought unprecedented adaptations and changes in global healthcare management. The pandemic has created major dilemmas for health care workers in all health care areas including surgical services. To avoid any local transmission, the risk level of all surgical patients are evaluated before, or immediately after admission. Changes have been made based on the availability of the hospital resources, as best as possible, based on the protocol developed by WHO and the Ministry of Health Republic of Indonesia.

Pandemi penyakit corona virus 2019 (COVID-19) menyebabkan adaptasi dan perubahan manajemen pelayanan kesehatan di seluruh dunia. Pandemi ini telah menyebabkan dilemma besar bagi pekerja kesehatan di semua bidang termasuk pelayanan bedah. Untuk mencegah transmisi lokal, semua pasien bedah dinilai tingkat risikonya sebelum, atau sesaat setelah di dalam rumah sakit. Beberapa protokol dan manajemen pelayanan kesehatan di Indonesia telah dibuat dan diterapkan berdasarkan tersedianya sumber daya di rumah sakit dan sedapat mungkin mengikuti protokol WHO dan Kementrian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia.
The Role of Vitamin D in Enhancing Immunity and Its Recommendations
Authors: Nagara Adianto Jaya , Gonius Andry
Published: July 2022

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin with a very important role in regulating the body's calcium balance. It also plays an important role in cell growth, even optimizing the immune system. American Academy of Dermatology recommends supplementation of oral vitamin D to meet daily vitamin D requirements.

Vitamin D adalah vitamin larut dalam lemak yang penting untuk mengatur kadar kalsium tubuh, juga berperan dalam pertumbuhan sel dan sistem imun. Untuk memenuhi kebutuhan vitamin D dalam tubuh, American Academy of Dermatology menganjurkan suplementasi oral vitamin D.

 
programas de formación para la «Mutua Defensa» entre España y Estados Unidos en los años cincuenta
Authors: León Aguinaga Pablo
Published: July 2022

La asistencia militar fue uno de los elementos más polémicos de la acción exterior de Estados Unidos durante la Guerra Fría. Esta tomó múltiples formas, siendo una de las más representativas la instrucción de militares aliados, pertenecientes tanto a países democráticos como a dictatoriales. Desde la primera mitad de los años cincuenta cientos de uniformados españoles complementaron su instrucción en escuelas militares e instalaciones americanas situadas en Estados Unidos y Europa o a cargo de instructores norteamericanos desplazados a España. A partir de fuentes archivísticas, inéditas en su mayoría, el presente artículo analiza los objetivos, puesta en marcha y consecuencias iniciales de los distintos programas de training vinculados a la Mutua Defesa en los años cincuenta.
implantación del inglés como lingua franca en el Ejército de Tierra español (1953-1989)
Authors: Escribano Bernal Francisco , Herrando Rodrigo Isabel
Published: July 2022

La firma de los convenios entre España y Estados Unidos creó en las Fuerzas Armadas españolas la necesidad de contar con personal con la debida competencia lingüística para participar en cursos y ejercicios tácticos. Sin embargo, el atraso generalizado en la enseñanza de idiomas y el predominio del francés hicieron que la implantación del inglés como lingua francafuera lento y dificultoso. En el artículo se exponen los cambios normativos y metodológicos que se sucedieron en el Ejército de Tierra español en el marco de la Guerra Fría y que permitieron eventualmente la participación en operaciones internacionales en condiciones comunicativas adecuadas.
Josep Fontana en su tiempo
Authors: Ruiz Torres Pedro
Published: July 2022

Josep Fontana es uno de los historiadores de mayor relieve en el último medio siglo. Este artículo se remonta a sus años de formación y destaca lo que supuso la publicación de su tesis doctoral. Sigue su trayectoria hasta hace poco más de un año, en que falleció, y destaca su compromiso con el oficio de historiador y con una historia socialmente útil, que una el estudio del pasado a los problemas del presente.
Divulgação voluntária de políticas corporativas para a promoção da equidade étnico racial nas empresas brasileiras.
Authors: Grossi Janaina Cássia , Vicente Raphael
Published: July 2022

No contexto de elevada pressão para que empresas se comprometam com a promoção da equidade racial, este artigo tem como objetivo desenvolver uma forma de avaliar a equidade étnico racial baseada em indicadores-chave para a promoção da equidade e fornecer um panorama das práticas adotadas e publicamente divulgadas nos websites corporativos das empresas brasileiras de capital aberto em relação à promoção da equidade étnico racial. Para tanto, os websites foram visitados em busca de 12 itens julgados relevantes para que a companhia estabeleça uma comunicação material deste compromisso. Os principais resultados apontam que mais de 20% das empresas listadas na B3 não apresentaram nenhum conteúdo de interesse público para promoção da equidade étnico-racial em seus relatórios ou websites. Da pontuação, que poderia variar de 0 a 12, a média geral foi de 2,25. 50% das empresas listadas apresentou até 2, dos 12 itens procurados nos websites corporativos, 75% das companhias publicizaram até 3 dos 12 itens. A companhia de melhor pontuação obteve 9 dos 12 pontos. Também se identificou que as empresas de maior porte tendem a reportar mais itens de interesse acerca da promoção de equidade. Além disso, as empresas listadas no nível superior de governança corporativa estão ausentes do conjunto de empresas com pontuação nula. No geral, o resultado indica que a divulgação e o compromisso público com a promoção da equidade étnico racial ainda é insipiente e está aquém do desejado e que não há divulgação material e transparente nos websites corporativos acerca deste aspecto.
JRESE
Authors: Martins Valdir
Published: July 2022

Depois de muito trabalho de organização, é com satisfação que se apresenta à comunidade científica e aos profissionais de organizações públicas e privadas o primeiro número da revista de equidade social e etnico-racial. A Journal of Racial and Ethnic Social Equality (JRESE) nasce com a missão de contribuir para documentar o progresso da literatura destinada a compreender, abordar e, por fim, endereçar apropriadamente as disparidades sociais com base em raça e etnia.
Improving the positioning accuracy in the navigation system of an autonomous uninhabited underwater vehicle
Authors: Arsent'ev V. G. , Krivolapov G. I.
Published: July 2022

A modified algorithm for positioning the navigation system of an autonomous uninhabited underwater vehicle is proposed. It increases the accuracy of navigation in conditions of small inclined distances between positioning objects.
El aprendizaje autodirigido en el marco de las ecologías de formación inicial docente. Resultados de un estudio Delphi
Authors: Santos Caamaño Francisco José , Vázquez Cancelo María José , Fuentes-Abeledo Eduardo J.
Published: July 2022

El uso de las TIC y, particularmente, las tecnologías de redes han ampliado las posibilidades de acceder a nuevos espacios y recursos para el aprendizaje, más allá del tradicional campo formal escolar. Sin embargo, estas combinaciones de múltiples y distintos ambientes añaden un elemento de complejidad que exige al estudiante un mayor esfuerzo en su papel de director de su propio aprendizaje. La investigación Delphi que se describe en este artículo atiende precisamente al papel de la autodirección en el campo de las ecologías del aprendizaje, posicionando al alumno como agente activo, productor y conductor de sus propias estrategias, capaz de orquestar los diversos contextos, recursos, actividades y relaciones personales en un conjunto coherente y adecuado para la consecución de un objetivo de aprendizaje a lo largo del tiempo. En este sentido, se señala también la necesidad de poner en práctica procedimientos encaminados a fomentar la autonomía del aprendiz, su autorregulación y su capacidad de aprender a aprender.
COVID-19 and Pregnancy:
Authors: Alasia D , Maduka O , Oputa V O , Orazulike N , Otokwala J , Osemwegie N , Ozah C , Inya J N , Omietimi S , Ogan S , Ugboma H , Stanley P
Published: July 2022

Background: It is known that pregnant women are more susceptible to viral infectious diseases, with an attendant risk of adverse foetal and maternal outcomes. The objective of this descriptive study is to evaluate the epidemiologic and clinical pattern, as well as the obstetric and COVID-19 outcome among pregnant women seen at a tertiary hospital in Southern, Nigeria.

Methods: This was a descriptive prospective study of all pregnant women seen and diagnosed with COVID-19 based on positive RT-PCR for SARS-COV-2, at the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria from March 2020 to August 2020.

Results: Seven (5.2%) pregnant patients were diagnosed with COVID-19 out of 134 patients. The common presenting symptoms were fever 4(57.1%), Productive cough 3 (42.9%), shortness of breath 3 (42.9%), myalgia 3 (42.9%), rhinorrhoea 3 (42.9%), and anosmia 3 (42.9%). The majority (85.7%) of patients were in the second and third trimesters at diagnosis. All deliveries occurred at term, with a mean gestational age of 38±0.82 weeks. Four patients (57.1%) had caesarean section (CS) deliveries for obstetric indications. No adverse outcomes were recorded for mothers and babies with birth weight ranging from 2.5 to 3.5 Kg. No case fatality was recorded.

Conclusion: In this study, pregnant women with COVID-19 did not have adverse maternal and foetal outcome. The pattern of symptoms and the presence of severe disease also did not differ from what is observed in the general non-pregnant population. The impact of COVID-19 on pregnancy is less severe when compared to other high consequence viral infectious diseases.

Keywords: COVID-19; Obstetrics; Pregnancy; SARS-CoV-2.
Exposure to Anti-Tobacco Messaging and Quit Attempts among Adolescent and Young Adult in Lagos, Nigeria: A Population-based Study
Authors: Oyapero A , Erinoso O , Osoba M , Amure M , Osibogun O , `Wright K , Osibogun A
Published: July 2022

Background: Health behavior theories suggest that knowledge about the health risks of the behavior precedes behavior change. Tobacco control messages aim to promote knowledge of health risks associated with tobacco use and encourage smoking cessation behaviors such as quit attempts and intention to quit. This study assessed the relationship between exposure to Anti-Tobacco Messaging (ATM) and quit attempts among adolescents and young adults in Lagos, Nigeria.

Methods: This was an online cross-sectional survey of 947 participants aged between 15-35 years. The survey obtained sociodemographic information, smoking status, exposure to ATM, intention to quit and quit attempts in the past 12-months. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify the relationship between exposure to ATM and quit attempts; pvalues <0.05 were considered significant. Statistical analysis was done using STATA-15.0 software.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 23.4 years (SD:4.0). Less than one-third of the respondents were smokers (23.4%). The most common source of ATM were digital sources (online and social media - 29.6%). Based on the multivariable logistic regression model, younger age (p:0.03) and an intention to quit (p: <0.001) were significantly associated with a quit attempt. Exposure to ATM in the past 12 months was also significantly associated with higher odds of a quit attempt (OR:5.33; 95% CI: 1.26,22.60; p: 0.02).

Conclusion: Our findings suggest an association between exposure to ATM and quit attempts among adolescent and young adult smokers in Lagos State, Nigeria. Policymakers should consider measures aimed at promoting tobacco control education and improving access to smoking cessation services.

Keywords: Adolescent; Intention to Quit; Quit attempt; youth; Tobacco.
Risk Perception and Factors associated with Compliance to COVID-19 Preventive Measures among Commercial Drivers in Abakaliki Nigeria: An Imperative for Targeted Intervention
Authors: Onah C K , Azuogu B N , Umeokonkwo C D , Akpa C O , Utulu R , Elom P O , Adeke A S , Okoro O O , Michael U
Published: July 2022

Background: Despite efforts to control COVID-19 pandemic, the outbreak has continued to ravage the world with high morbidity, mortality and economic hardship. The World Health Organisation reported that people are becoming complacent and their risk perceptions are lowering. Commercial drivers play significant role in outbreak control because of their regular mix with commuters from various sources.

Objectives: We investigated risk perception and factors associated with compliance to COVID-19 preventive measures among commercial drivers.

Methods: This study involved 502 commercial drivers in Abakaliki Nigeria using cross-sectional analytic design. Data was collected with interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed with IBM-SPSS version 23. Inferential statistics were done using Chi-square and binary logistic regression tests with significance set at p-value of 0.05.

Results: The response rate was 502(98.4%) and mean age was 35.5±10.8 years. Majority of them were married 368(73.3%), had secondary education 279(55.6%) and operated commercial driving for 1-5 years 297(59.2%). There was high awareness, high-risk perception and good compliance with COVID-19 preventive measures in 99.8%, 69.1% and 54.4% of respondents respectively. Attaining tertiary education (aOR=6.5, 95% CI=1.5-28.1, p=0.012) and good knowledge of COVID-19 (aOR=4.3, 95% CI=2.7-6.8, p<0.001) significantly predicted high-risk perception while good knowledge of the disease alone predicted good compliance (aOR=5.5, 95% CI=3.6-8.3; p<0.001).

Conclusion: The awareness of COVID-19 is high but there is relatively lower risk perception and compliance with the preventive measures. We recommend improved public education, sensitization and risk communication as well as review of policies and adoption of new approaches about COVID-19 outbreak control.
Prevalence and Pattern of Thyroid Dysfunction in HAART-Naïve HIV Patients in Enugu, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Comparative Study
Authors: Ugwueze C V , Young E E , Unachukwu C N , Onyenekwe B M , Nwatu C B , Okafor C I , Ezeude C M , Ezeokpo B C
Published: July 2022

Background: HIV/AIDS is a multi-system disease that has been associated with several endocrinopathies including thyroid dysfunction. Thyroid dysfunction in patients with HIV/AIDS, among other factors, may arise from the direct cytopathic effects of HIV on the thyroid gland in addition to the adverse effects of highly active anti-retroviral drugs (HAART).

Study objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of thyroid dysfunction in HAART naïve HIV patients in Enugu.

Materials & methods: Study was cross sectional, casecontrol based, involving 250 HAART naïve HIV sero-positive patients and 250 HIV sero-negative subjects. Anthropometric measurements and physical examination were done. Assay for fT3, fT4, TSH (for thyroid function) was done using the Enzyme Linked Immunoassay (ELISA) method. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.

Results: The HAART naïve sero-positive cohorts comprised 112 males and 138 females while the control subjects consisted of 125 males and 125 females. Mean ages (years) of test and control groups were 38.84± 10.60 and 39.58 ±11.68 respectively. Prevalence of thyroid dysfunction among the study subjects was 36.4% and 7.6% in the controls. Subclinical hypothyroidism was the most common prevalent type of thyroid dysfunction in both test and control groups at 17.6% and 7.2% respectively. In the test group, sick euthyroid syndrome (17.2%) ranked second while in the controls, primary hypothyroidism (7.2%) was the second commonest dysfunction.

Conclusion: Thyroid dysfunction was more common in HAART-naïve HIV sero-positive subjects than in the general population with subclinical hypothyroidism emerging as the commonest abnormality.
Clinical Significance of Elevated Levels of Cardiac Troponin T in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos
Authors: Ajie
Published: July 2022

Background: This is an observational study of pre-dialysis patients with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) attending nephrology clinic at Lagos University Teaching Hospital to determine the clinical significance of elevated levels of Cardiac Troponin T (CTT) and possible associated factors.

Methods: One hundred and forty-three (143) patients with CKD and no prior history of myocardial infarction were recruited and their serum levels of CTT were determined within 3 months of sample collection and storage at -80° C. ECG findings and clinical variables were compared. The 99 percentile cut-off value was derived using healthy individuals that met the inclusion criteria.

Results: Mean blood CTT level was significantly higher in CKD patients compared to the general population. The 99th percentile value derived in the reference sample population was 48.02pg/ml. Statistical analysis showed significant association of CTT elevation with left ventricular hypertrophy, decreased renal function and age.

Conclusion: CTT is generally elevated in pre-dialysis patients with CKD and a single elevated blood level of CTT above the 99th percentile may suggest asymptomatic Acute Coronary Syndrome. Serial rising levels of CTT and other clinical features will be of diagnostic significance in the diagnosis and management of asymptomatic acute coronary syndrome in patients with CKD.

 

Authors

O I Ajie , E C Azinge, B T Bello , T A Oshodi , O O Soriyan, I C Udenze
Etiology and Clinical Evaluation of Patients with Bronchiectasis in a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria
Authors: Umoh
Published: July 2022

Background: Bronchiectasis is often considered an orphan disease in developed societies. This may not be the case with low-income countries. Currently there is a paucity of data on the pattern and presentation of this condition in Nigeria.

Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the frequency and pattern of presentation of bronchiectasis in a tertiary healthcare facility in Uyo, South-South, Nigeria.

Methods: We carried out a three-year prospective study of adult patients aged between 15-85 years diagnosed with bronchiectasis in the University of Uyo Teaching Hospital in Uyo, Nigeria between 2016 and 2019.

Results: Eighty-two patients were identified from the clinic register. Out of these, 76 were recruited into the study; made up of 44(57.9%) males and 32 (42.1%) females. The average age of the patients was 49.7 ± 14.1 years. Sixteen (21.1%) of the patients were HIV positive. Forty-four (57.9%) patients had previously been treated for pulmonary tuberculosis. Majority of the patients; 72 (94.7%) had chronic productive cough. Sixty-four (84.2%) had at least one episode of exacerbation within the last 12 months while 36(47.4%) had a severe exacerbation requiring hospitalisation. Hospitalisation was associated with several factors with the strongest contributor being the presence of respiratory distress on physical examination (OR 15.4 p= 0.002).

Conclusion: Bronchiectasis is not an uncommon disease amongst our patients. A previous history of pulmonary tuberculosis is the commonest associated predisposing medical condition. There is a high rate of exacerbation among these patients with respiratory distress as the strongest predictor of hospitalisation.

Authors

V A Umoh 1, D D Alasia 2, E E Akpan 1, U Ekrikpo 1, E E Ekpe 3, M E Ekwere 4, E Peters 1
Vitamin D Level in Patients Receiving Highly Active Antiretroviral Therapy in LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso
Authors: Salawu
Published: July 2022

Background and objective: Hypovitaminosis D is a worldwide disorder, with a high prevalence in the general population. This study aims to assess the serum vitamin D level and its relationship with cluster for differentiation; CD4+T cells among HIV infected individuals on HAART.

Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted among 150 subjects attending the infectious disease Clinic of LAUTECH Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso and presently on antiretroviral treatment. Serum from blood samples collected was analyzed and diagnostic cut-off of (<30ng/ml) and (> 30ng/ml) were used as Deficient and Sufficient vitamin D respectively. Variables such as duration on ART, CD4 count and viral load were extracted from case notes of subjects.

Results: There was disproportionately more female than malesubjects with a male to female ratio of 1:3. Subjects were aged between 16 and 73 years with a mean age of 41.57 ± 10.62. Few subjects (5.3%) were underweight, 23.3% were overweight, and 26% were obese. The median CD4 count was 241.5 cells/mm3 and 72% of subjects were immunosuppressed. The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 45.3% (n=68). CD4 count was associated with the level of serum vitamin D, p-value < 0.05.

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency was prevalent among the studied HIV population. Our study found a significant correlation between serum vitamin D level and CD4 counts. It may be concluded that highly antiretroviral therapy HAART, improves CD4 level when there is sufficient vitamin D level, however, this merits further extensive exploration.

Authors

A A Salawu 1, T W Oloyede 2, E O Oke 3, O T Oladibu 4, S A Ojedokun 5, S O Oiwoh 6, K I Oreagba 7
Efficacy of Hexetidine, Thymol and Hydrogen Peroxide-Containing Oral Antiseptics in Reducing Sars-Cov-2 Virus in the Oral Cavity: A Pilot Study
Authors: Ogun
Published: July 2022

Background: Studies have demonstrated the role of sputum as a site of severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARSCoV-2) transmission. However, there is limited literature on the virucidal efficacy of oral antiseptics against SARS-CoV-2 virus. This study investigated the virucidal efficacy of three oral-antiseptics compared to a placebo-control in the sputum of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals.

Methodology: A pilot study of adults with SARS-CoV-2 positive results, as determined by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) of <7 days. The oral antiseptics investigated were: Hexetidine (0.1% w/v); Thymol (0.063% w/v) and H2O2(1.5%) compared to de-mineralized sterile water (Placebo-control). The primary outcome measure was the proportion of negative RT-PCR results at 15-mins, 30-mins, 1-hour, 2-hours and 4-hours After Oral antiseptics Interventions (AOI) compared to the placebo-control. Statistical analysis was done using STATA 15.0 software with p-values of <0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Data from a total of 66 participants that were RT-PCR SARS-CoV-2 positive at baseline (0-min) was analysed. At 15-mins AOI, the highest proportion of negativation from sputum samples was observed in the Hexedine group, with 69.2% of the baseline PCR positive cases converting to negative compared to 46.7% in the placebo-control group. In addition, H2O2 demonstrated efficacy at 2-hours AOI compared to placebo-control (62.5% vs 37.5% respectively) and other oral-antiseptics. Across all time-points, the oral-antiseptic groups compared to the placebo-control group, there was no statistically significant difference in the proportion of sputum samples which converted to a negative status (p>0.05).

Conclusion: The findings in this study suggest there was no significant difference in the proportion of participants who converted to a negative sputum status across the treatment groups at various time points. Future studies could compare the cycle threshold (ct) viral titre values of sputum samples to determine quantitative differences.

Authors

S A Ogun 1, O Erinoso 2, O O Aina 3, O I Ojo 2, O Adejumo 4, A Adeniran 2, A Bowale 4, C A Olaniyi 2, B M Adedoyin 5, B Mutiu 6, B Saka 6, O Oshinaike 2, W Arabambi 1, F Adejumo 4, O Shuaib 2, A O Salmon 2, H Abdur-Razzaq 7, O F Njokanma 2, O Ojini 8, O Ogboye 7, O Lajide 7, K O Wright 2, A Osibogun 8, A Abayomi 7
A Comparative Study of Uterine Artery Doppler Parameters and Endometrial Characteristics in Women with Unexplained Infertility and Fertile Women at a Nigerian Teaching Hospital
Authors: Smart
Published: July 2022

Objectives: To investigate the uterine artery Doppler parameters and endometrial characteristics in women with unexplained infertility.

Methods: A prospective case-control study of 42 women with unexplained infertility and 42 fertile controls. Their mid-luteal phase transvaginal Doppler parameters of both uterine arteries and endometrial characteristics (endometrial blood flow, thickness and volume) were investigated and analysed. P values < 0.05 was statistically significant.

Results: The mean uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) and resistivity index (RI) of the cases (women with unexplained infertility) were significantly higher compared to the values in the fertile controls (PI = 2.81±0.61 vs 2.15±0.65; p=0.001) (RI= 0.87±0.08 vs 0.82±0.07; p=0.003). In addition, the end-diastolic volume (EDV) (6.12±4.17 vs 9.37±5.14; p=0.007) and endometrial-subendometrial blood flow (p=0.036) were significantly lower in the cases compared to the controls. Multivariate logistics analysis showed that PI was independently associated with infertile status (p=0.006). There was no significant difference in the mean PSV (48.69±10.9 vs 50.58±11.30; p=0.602), endometrial thickness (10.30+3.13 vs 10.72+3.10; p=0.544), endometrial volume (7.82+1.56 vs 8.23+1.71; p=0.323), mean age (32.28±4.062 vs 31.91±3.58 years; p=0.502), body mass index (26.15±2.71kg/m2 vs 25.24±2.85 kg/m2; p=0.18) menstrual bleeding days (4.07±0.89 days vs 4.02±0.95 days; p=0.481) duration of menstrual cycle (28.02±1.09 days vs 27.64±1.36 days; p= 0.162), smoking history (p=0.909) and alcohol intake (p=0.507) of the infertile women compared with the fertile controls, respectively.

Conclusion: Women with unexplained infertility have increased uterine artery Doppler PI and RI and reduced endometrial-subendometrial perfusion compared with fertile controls.

Authors

A E Smart 1, G O Obajimi 2, A J Adekanmi 3 4, M O Obajimi 3
Knowledge of Environmental and Genetic Risk Factors for Cleft Lip and Palate among Dwellers of a Suburban Community in Nigeria
Authors: Egbunah
Published: July 2022

Background: Cleft lip and/or cleft palate (CLP) is a prevalent condition with a multifactorial etiology. An understanding of its etiologic factors discourages harmful habits and promotes societal acceptability.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge of environmental and genetic risk factors of CLP and determine its effect on predisposing social habits in a suburban community in Nigeria.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Ifo Local Government Area (LGA), Ogun state, Nigeria. Participants were adult residents of Ifo L.G.A. Knowledge of CLP categorized into description, environmental risk factors and genetic factors were assessed using a well structured interviewer administered questionnaire.

Results: A total of 300 adults (104 males; 196 females) aged 44.3 + 13.17 years with predominantly secondary level education participated in the study. Majority of participants (89.7%) had low overall knowledge of CLP including low knowledge on description of CLP (81.7%), environmental factors of CLP (81.3%), and genetic factors of CLP (93.7%). High level of education was significantly associated with increased knowledge on description of CLP (P < 0.05). No other significant association was noted between sociodemographic factors and knowledge of CLP. Decreased smoking history was associated with high knowledge on description of CLP (P = 0.043).

Conclusion: Majority of the population had low knowledge of CLP which was to an extent influenced by their lack of high level of education. This low knowledge was significantly associated with increased practices of social habits such as cigarette smoking that predispose unborn children to CLP. The low knowledge of CLP shown in this study highlights the need for increased community education and health promotion to encourage avoidance of risk factors that predispose to the condition and promote societal acceptability and quest for treatment of the condition.

Author

U P Egbunah 1, A A Adekunle 1, W L Adeyemo 1 2
Use of Herbal Medicine by Rural Residents in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Oyeleye
Published: July 2022

Background: Medicinal plants have been used for years in daily life all over the world. Herbal medicines (HM) may be beneficial but are not completely harmless especially with unregulated use.

Aim: To assess the knowledge, preference and use of HM in a rural setting, western Nigeria.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study among 417 residents of Epe Local Government Area, Lagos State Nigeria conducted in mid 2016. Respondents were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire and analyzed using Epi- info version 7.1.5.2. Descriptive and inferential statistics were done. P-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS: Nearly half (48.7%) of the respondents were between the ages of 18-33 years, over three fourths (78.4%) were married and majority (89.2%) were Yoruba. About half 207(49.6%) of respondents had good knowledge of HM. Over two thirds (67.6%) would use HM as first line treatment and 69.3% perceive it more effective than conventional medicine. Almost all (95.7%) respondents have used HM, majority (87.4%) in the last six months prior to study. Factors significantly associated with knowledge of HM are age (p=0.001) and sex of respondents (p=0.014). Significant factors influencing HM use include level of education (Fisher's exact p=0.017), religion (Fisher's exact p=0.001), and ethnicity (Fisher's exact p<0.001).

Conclusion: Participants were fairly knowledgeable about herbal medicine but most were oblivious of its potential side effects. Majority were HM users mainly because of its perceived effectiveness. There is need for health education in rural areas on the side effects and safe use of herbal medicines.

Author

T M Oyeleye 1, I P Okafor 1
Suicide and Gender: An urgent issue during and post COVID-19
Authors: Barroso Martínez Alejandro
Published: July 2022

Suicide is a growing social problem worldwide. Gender has been considered one of the risk factors for suicide, however, it has also been one of the misunderstood categories by some researchers. Gender is not a risk factor in itself. Political, economic, and cultural processes assign, distribute, and value social opportunities, roles, and expectations according to sexual differences, and it shape the ways of thinking and feeling ourselves. These ways of thinking and feeling can explain suicide at the individual level. In this sense, this article focus on the processes through which the current COVID-19 pandemic may be affecting our construction of gender, and as a result, our mental health. As a result, some directions are pointed out to understanding suicide and its relationship with human being as a historical totality.
La protección del medio ambiente en Chile y sus implicancias penales. Visión general
Authors: Ramírez Guzmán María Cecilia
Published: July 2022

En el presente trabajo se encuentra una descripción de la protección penal del medio ambiente en Chile en que el modelo de prescindencia del instrumento penal para proteger el medio ambiente como sistema es una característica. Eso obliga a revisar someramente la regulación administrativa ambiental y las disposiciones penales, concebidas con otros fnes que permiten abordar los sucesos que atentan contra el medio ambiente. A pesar de los avances de las últimas décadas no se ha logrado transitar a un modelo de regulación sea general o especial y se augura escasa posibilidades de hacerlo.
Assessment of Communitization through Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Status of the Members of Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Committees
Authors:   Department of Community Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Medical College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India, Suryawanshi Abhiraj , Gothankar Jayashree ,   Department of Community Medicine, Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University), Medical College and Hospital, Pune, Maharashtra, India
Published: July 2022

Background: Village Health, Sanitation, and Nutrition Committee (VHSNC) is an important tool and measure of communitization and way of decentralization to plan & monitor health care down to the village level. Objective: To assess the communitization through knowledge, attitude & practices (KAP) status of its members. Material & Method: Observational, cross-sectional study conducted over the period of two years in all 13 blocks of Pune District in Maharashtra state. Data were collected using prestructured and pretested proforma from seven members per VHSNC. Qualitative data variables were expressed by using frequency & percentages. Quantitative data variables were expressed by Chi-square tests (95% CI). Results: Mean age of members was 40.77 ± 9.30 years. The majority of them, i.e., 76%, were females. The distribution of social categories shows that 20% of members were SCs/STs and 19% OBCs. The majority, i.e., 34%, were found to be educated up to secondary education. The mean KAP score of all members was documented to be 39.05, which indicated unsatisfactory communitization. KAP regarding VHSNCs was highest among Anganwadi Workers, followed by Auxiliary Nurse Midwives, Multipurpose Workers, Sarpanchs, Accredited Social Health Activists, Gram Panchayat members, and others. A significant association was found between the KAPscore of members with their education, designation in VHSNC, and background. (p < 0.05) Conclusion: The Communitisation across the district, as indicated by the KAP score of members, was found to be unsatisfactory. Thus, efforts through the capacity-building program for the members of VHSNC will be beneficial.