bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maternal and neonatal outcomes of grand multiparity in Khartoum, Sudan
Authors: Abdelmageed Elmugabil , Bahaeldin Hassan , Nadiah Alhabrdi , Abdelbagi Ahmed , Duria Rayis , Ishag Adam
Published: May 2022

Objectives: Grand multiparity is a major health problem that leads to adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes. We aimed to assess the maternal and perinatal outcomes of grand multiparity.

Methods: A case-control study was conducted in Saad Abualila Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan from February to December 2019. The cases were grand multiparous (≥ 5 deliveries) women. The controls were women with low parity (multiparous women who delivered two to four times). Maternal and perinatal characteristics were compared between the two groups. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results: There was a significant association between grand multiparity and higher maternal age (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.16-1.23), lower education level (AOR=3.38, 95% CI=2.49-5.58) and lower antenatal care attendance (AOR=1.73, 95% CI=1.02-2.92). Grand multiparous women were at increased risk for Anemia (AOR=1.48, 95% CI=1.08-2.03), diabetes mellitus (AOR=10.61, 95% CI=4.89-23.00), caesarean delivery (AOR=1.87, 95% CI=1.40-2.48), preterm birth (AOR=1.90, 95% CI=1.37-2.62) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (AOR=3.8, 95% CI=1.95-7.75).

Conclusions: Grand multiparity was associated with poor maternal and neonatal outcomes. Development of a national health program addressing family planning, health education and improvement of antenatal, intrapartum and neonatal care are needed.

Keywords: Grand multiparity; multiparous; maternal outcome; neonatal outcome; Sudan.
Mentorship during transition period: a challenge for newly qualified midwives in Limpopo province of South Africa
Authors: Simane-Netshisaulu Khathutshelo , Maputle Maria , Mutshinyalo Netshikweta Lizzy , Shilubane Hilda
Published: May 2022

Background: Mentorship is a process in which structured support is provided to new graduates of the profession to facilitate theireffective transitional journey to professional autonomy.

Objectives: To explore and describe the mentoring process as experienced by newly qualified midwives and experienced midwivesduring thetransition period.

Methods: Aqualitative approach was used. Five hospitals were selected from Limpopo province. The study was conducted in a maternity unit of each selected hospital. Population comprised of all newly qualified midwives as well as all experienced midwives working at institutions under study. Non-probability, purposive sampling method was used to select twenty-five newly qualified and twenty-five experienced midwives working in maternity wards of selected hospitals. In-depth face-to-face interviews were conducted for data collection.

Results: Ineffective mentoring processes were reported, where only a few experienced midwives seemed ready to provide informal and unstructured support to graduates. Experienced midwives recognised their mentoring role however, felt they did not have sufficient knowledge and skills regarding mentoring process. Shortage of staff and increased workload were reported as challenges which negatively affected the mentoring process.

Conclusion: Mentoring is an effective process for facilitation of graduates’ transition process to become registered autonomous midwifery practitioners. However, they were not effectively mentored; consequently, negatively affecting their development to professional maturity.

Keywords: Experienced midwives; mentoring; mentor; newly qualified midwives.
Prevalence and determinants of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction anomalies in adults aged ≥ 40 years in Jimma Town, Southwest of Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tadesse Bukata Iyasu , Tegene Elsa , Gobena Teshome , Markos Woldesenbet Yohannes
Published: May 2022

Background: The prevalence of cardiac arrhythmia (CA) in the Ethiopian population is unknown. A community study was conducted to assess the magnitude and predictors of CAs in adults aged≥40 years in Jimma Town.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Jimma town from May to July 2017. A total of 634 adults aged 40 years or older were selected using a systematic sampling technique from six kebeles of the Town. Study participants were screened for CA using a 12-lead ECG machine. Face-to-face interviews, anthropometric, important clinical measurements were performed. Data analysis was done using SPSS for windows version 21.0.

Results: A total of 634 study participants, significant CA occurred in 217 individuals (34.2%). Conduction abnormalities and sinus bradycardia were the commonest findings (25.4%). Premature beats (ventricular 1.9%, atrial 1.1%) and atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (2.1%) were the next most frequent arrhythmias. Arrhythmias were independently associated with smoking(AOR=1.9;P=.047), hypertension(AOR=1.5;P=.02), heart failure(AOR=2.06;P=.023), priorstroke(AOR=4.9;P=.001), previous history of MI(AOR=1.78;P=.039), vigorous intensity activities(AOR=0.56;P=.024), solidified vegetable oil consumption(AOR=3.5;P=.004), and occupation(pensioner, none)[AOR=1.7;P=.017].

Conclusion: CA is highly prevalent in Jimma. Hypertension and history of heart diseases are the most potent predictors of cardiac arrhythmia. Large-scale screening for early detection of arrhythmia has important implications for treatment.

Keywords: Cardiac arrhythmia; prevalence; risk-factors; 12-lead ECG; Jimma Town.
Exploring the use of p53 protein expression as an indicator of oesophageal cancer severity from a high incidence rural area of Africa
Authors: J Ndebia Eugene , Ngonyama Thandazile , Molaoa Steve
Published: May 2022

Background: The expression of p53 has been associated with the severity of other types of cancer. There is scanty information when it comes to oesophageal cancer.

Objective: This study aimed to explore the use of p53 protein expression as an indicator of oesophageal cancer severity from a high-risk incidence in the African rural population.

Methods: Fifty-one patients newly diagnosed with oesophageal cancer were recruited from the endoscopic unit at Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital in Mthatha, South Africa. The serological expression of p53 was measured using the ELISA method and the severity of oesophageal cancer expressed in grade was obtained from the histopathology report from patient’s oesophageal biopsies.Results: We found that the expression of p53 was equally distributed among the histological grades of cancer with the value of 2495 pg/mL ± 1736 pg/ mL for lower grades and 2520 ± 1539 pg/mL for higher grades. Furthermore, we found that the level of p53 expression was equally distributed in patients from grade 1, 2, 3, and 4.

Conclusion: The expression of p53 protein does not vary according to the histological grade of oesophageal cancer in the given population, therefore may not be helpful as a prognostic factor.

Keywords: Exploring the use of p53 protein expression; as an indicator of oesophageal cancer severity; from a high incidence rural area of Africa.
Metabolic syndrome and its components among HIV/AIDS patients on Antiretroviral Therapy and ART-Naïve Patients at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Calabar, Nigeria
Authors: Ojong Ebot , Iya Bassey , Djeufouata Jules , Ndeh Forwah , Nsonwu Augusta , Njongang Vigny , Etukudo Maisie , Usoro Chinyere , Ekpo Julie
Published: May 2022

Background: Although an increasing access to ART in sub-Saharan Africa has made it possible for HIV/AIDS patients to live longer, clinicians managing such patients are faced with the challenge of drug-related metabolic complications.

Methods: A cross -sectional study was carried out at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital, Nigeria, on three groups of participants; namely HIV patients on ART, ART-naïve patients and HIV negative subjects (n =75). Demographic and anthropometric data were collected using a well-structured questionnaire while biochemical parameters were measured using colorimetric methods.

Results: The highest prevalence of MS was associated with the HIV/AIDS patients on ART (i.e. 32.0 %, and 50.3% for NCEP-ATP III and IDF criteria respectively). Patients on ART had significant increases (p< 0.05) in waist to hip ratio, FPG, serum TG and LDL-c; and a significantly higher (p< 0.05) prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, low HDL-c and hypertriglyceridaemia compared to the ART-naïve patients. Low serum HDL-c was the most prevalent form of dyslipidaemia in allthree groups and the most prevalent component of MS in HIV patients.

Conclusion: ART increases the risk of MS and CVD. HIV/AIDS patients on ART should be advised on lifestyle modifications and undertake regular assessment of their cardiovascular risk factors.

Keywords: HIV/AIDS patients; antiretroviral therapy; ART-Naïve patients; Calabar Teaching Hospital; Calabar; Nigeria.
Factors affecting adherence to anti-retroviral therapy among women attending HIV clinic of a tertiary health institution in SouthEastern, Nigeria
Authors: C Opara Hope , N Iheanacho Peace , Nebo Blessing , A Ingwu Justin , J Anetekhai Chinenye , N Anarado Agnes
Published: May 2022

Background: Strictly adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) is needed to achieve viral suppression. Studies have focused on HIV positive pregnant women’s adherence. Factors affecting non-pregnant HIV positive women’s adherence has been understudied in Enugu

Objective: The study objective was to identify factors affecting adherence to ART among HIV positive women attending retroviral clinic of a tertiary hospital in Enugu.

Methods: Using a descriptive cross-sectional design, a pre-tested structured questionnaire was used for data collection among 286 HIV positive women aged 18 years and above. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics of proportions, percentages, and means. Responses with a mean score of ≥2.5 were taken as important factor affecting adherence.

Results: Overall adherence was 56.2%. Participants were considered adherent if they took ≥95% of their prescribed ART. Lack of transport fare (2.69 ±1.36), long-distance to clinic (2.82±1.26), health workers’ poor attitude (2.74±1.28), and lack of partners’ and parents’ support (2.57±1.05) affected adherence negatively while ease in renewing prescription and minimal side effects of drugs enhanced adherence. Enfuvirtide (21.1%) and Lamivudine (17.4%) were drugs that were mostlyskipped.

Conclusions: Adherence to ART was low among the women attending the HIV clinic in Enugu. Adherence counseling and education should be provided before ART initiation. Strategies to reduce stigma, increase family support, and improve healthcare providers’ attitudes should be employed.

Keywords: Adherence; anti-retroviral therapy; factors; women; HIV Clinic; Enugu.
Magnitude and trend of HIV and Treponema pallidum infections among blood donors in Offinso-North District, Ghana: a nine-year retrospective, cross-sectional study
Authors: Nkansah Charles , Serwaa Dorcas , Osei-Boakye Felix , Owusu-Ampomah Richard
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Blood transfusion poses a high public health risk to recipients; hence no effort recommended to eradicate or minimize the danger of transmitting the infections.bReproductive Biology should be underestimated at minimizing the risk of TTIs. This study determined the prevalence and trend of HIV and syphilis infections in voluntary blood donors.

Method: A retrospective analysis of secondary data from consecutive prospective voluntary blood donors who accessed Nkenkaasu District Hospital’s Blood Bank from January 2010 to December 2018 was conducted.

Result: Cumulatively, HIV and Treponema pallidum seropositivity identified in the present study was high (19.1%, [95% C.I (0.026-0.028)]) . The prevalence of HIV and syphilis infections were 10.9% (95% C.I (0.098-0.120)) and 8.9% (95% C.I (0.073-0.92)) respectively. Prospective female blood donors were less likely to test positive for T. pallidum than males (OR 0.511, [0.340 – 0.769], p=0.001), but the infection was similar among different ages. The data showed downward trend for both HIV and T. pallidum seropositivity, (slope=-2.9467, p<0.0001) and (slope=-0.7117, p<0.0001) respectively.

Conclusion: Seroprevalence of HIV and Treponema pallidum were high, and their individual or combined seropositivity pose a significant threat to the safety of blood. Extensive and continuous screening for high-risk behaviours and infectious markers before blood donation is therefore Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, College of Medicine, Pan African University of Life and Earth Sciences Institute (PAULESI), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria.

Keywords: Blood donors; HIV; magnitude; trend; Treponema pallidum.
Perceptions about tuberculosis and perceived tuberculosis-related stigma and associated factors among the mining community in Eswatini
Authors: Maibvise Charles , Shongwe Mduduzi , Jele Vama , Dlamini Priscilla , Chiviya Wisdom
Published: May 2022

NIL
Cataract surgery outcomes: comparison of the extracapsular cataract extraction and manual small incision cataract surgery techniques
Authors: Jimmy Zitha Amukelani , Rampersad Nishanee
Published: May 2022

Background: Blindness and visual impairment are public health problems and constitute an important socio-economic burden in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the outcomes of cataract surgery will improve our knowledge of risk factors for poor outcomes. Previous studies have focused exclusively on the phacoemulsification technique with limited attention to the extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS) techniques.

Objectives: To compare the cataract surgery outcomes between the ECCE and MSICS techniques.

Methods: The study was an observational research design that used the LogMAR visual acuity (VA) chart, subjective refraction, slit lamp and ophthalmoscope to collect data. The participants were followed for a period of six-weeks post-surgery and outcomes were recorded. Data were presented using frequencies, percentages and means ± standard deviation.

Results: The sample included 101 participants, with a mean age of 66.32 ± 15.99 years. Fifty and 51 participants had undergone the ECCE and MSICS techniques respectively. Overall, one-hundred participants had poor pre-surgery VA and subjective refractions were generally not possible due to the severity of cataracts present. The mean aided post-surgery VA was 0.31 LogMAR and 0.13 LogMAR in the ECCE and MSICS groups respectively (p < 0.001). The mean post-surgery refractive astigmatism was similar in the ECCE (-2.06 D) and MSICS (-1.80 D) groups (p = 0.110). The spherical equivalence was approximately -0.50 D higher in the MSICS group, but not statistically significant (p = 0.330). Approximately one out of every five participants (n = 21) had post-surgery ocular complications such as corneal opacity and haziness as well as posterior capsular absence.

Conclusions: The MSICS technique showed better post-surgery outcomes than the ECCE technique.

Keywords: Cataract surgery outcomes; extracapsular cataract surgery; manual small incision cataract surgery; ocular complications.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices towards drug-food interactions among patients at public hospitals in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: C Osuala Emmanuella , Tlou Boikhutso , B Ojewole Elizabeth
Published: May 2022

Background: Drug-food interactions can lead to adverse drug reactions and therapy failure which can potentially impact patient safety and therapy outcome.

Objectives: This study assessed patients’ knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding drug-food interactions.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients at three public hospitals in eThekwini, KwaZulu-Natal. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS® version 25. The association between demographic variables and patients’ knowledge, attitudes and practices were assessed.

Results: Of the 342 patients, 70.5% were female, and the mean age was 42.87±0.89 years. Almost 50% of patients had secondary level education, and 64% were unemployed. About 52% of patients had high knowledge of drug-food interactions; however, only 30-50% of the patients could identify potential drug-food interactions of their drugs. More than halfof the patients (51.5%) answered that they took multivitamin pills with medications and 61.7% responded they consulted healthcare professionals for drug-food interactions’ information before taking new medications. Few patients (15.2%) had experienced drug-food interactions.

Conclusions: Overall, patients had gaps in their knowledge and practices, and positive attitudes towards drug-food interactions. Many patients could not identify food items that can potentially interact with their drugs. It is important that education and medication counselling are provided to patients to prevent drug-food interactions, ensure optimal drug therapy and patient safety.

Keywords: Drug-food interactions; patients; knowledge; attitudes; practices.
Synthesis of Polydispersed P(St-MMA-AA) Microspheres and Fabrication of Colloidal Crystals with Non-Compact Morphology
Authors: Ifijen Ikhazuagbe H. , Jonathan Eribe M. , Jacob Jacob N. , Udokpoh Nyaknno U. , Archibong Ukeme D.
Published: May 2022

Great attention has been given to the synthesis of monodispersed and uniform colloidal polymer particles with controllable particle sizes. However, investigations on the preparation, characterization and fabrication of polydisperse polymeric particles are very few. Polydisperse polymers are also needed to meet the new demands of the modern markets due to the ease of their synthesis. This study, therefore, synthesized polydispersed poly(styrene-methyl-methacrylate acrylic-acid) (P(St-MMA-AA)) via emulsion polymerization synthetic approach under unstable reaction conditions. The synthesized P(St-MMA-AA) microparticles were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), dynamic light scattering (DLS), a thermo-gravimetric analyzer (TGA) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The DLS results revealed a highly polydispersed P(St-MMA-AA) microparticles with an average particle diameter of 803.4 nm. SEM, TEM (transmission electron microscopy) and AFM (atomic force microscopy) analyses showed that the particles were spherical and polydispersed. The unequal diameters and non-compact nature of the fabricated colloidal crystals may have affected its possible uses in some specific applications such as decorative coatings, biomedical and sensing applications. However, other materials can be incorporated into the polydispersed prepared P(St-MMA-AA) colloidal microspheres to improve their properties and possible applications.

Keywords: Emulsion polymerization; Polydispersed; Polymer; P(St-MMA-AA).
Suitability of Flood Hazard Assessment Methods for Tanzania: A Case of Little Ruaha and Upper Ngerengere Catchment
Authors: Kihara Kashimbi J. , Valimba Patrick , Nobert Joel
Published: May 2022

Understanding the applicability of flood quantile estimation methods in flood hazard assessment is fundamental for planning, prevention, and management of flood risks. Therefore, this study evaluates and compares three hydrological methods, namely Hydrologiska Byråns Vattenbalansavdelning (HBV), Soil Conservation Service-Curve Number (SCS-CN), and regional regression equation (RRE), to estimate flood quantiles embedded in the existing flood damage assessment framework by applying them to two different river catchments, Little Ruaha (LR) and Upper Ngerengere (UN), Tanzania. The evaluation of method performance was carried out using three standard statistical measures for data from 1954 to 2010 and the 1971–1988 period in LR and UN catchments (LRC and UNC). The findings indicated that no single approach could fit all catchments and return periods for these case studies. Overall performance indicated that the RRE method provides more accurate and consistent quantile estimates than other approaches. These findings indicate that spatial scale, model structure, parameters, and hydro-climatic data condition are the most important elements influencing the suitability of the supplied methods for flood risk assessments, which serve as the foundation for developing an improved flood damage assessment framework.

Keywords: Flood Quantiles; Estimate Methods; Flood Risk Management; Little Ruaha; Ngerengere
Névrose et création littéraire dans les nouvelles écritures afro-parisiennes : une lecture postcoloniale et psychanalytique de dix romans de la « migritude »
Authors: Ateufack Dongmo Rodrigue Marcel
Published: May 2022

Suivant des perspectives psychanalytique et postcoloniale, cette étude analyse l’écriture de la migration africaine en France, articulant les notions de névrographie, d’ordre colonial, et d’« enfants de la postcolonie » (Waberi), pour mettre en évidence une géopolitique franco-africaine encore régie par des logiques coloniales et ses effets d’ordre psychique et poétique. Il s’agit de dégager l’influence du phénomène de névrose dans le processus de création de cette littérature de la « migritude » (Chevrier), et de récuser certains lieux communs tels que la consécration de l’anti-héroïsme de la figure du migrant africain au moment même où l’Afrique a besoin de héros ; ou la peinture par trop tragique de l’immigration africaine en France indiquant que ces auteurs demeurent, à leur corps défendant, sous l’emprise d’un environnement socioculturel et professionnel dont l’idéologie dominante leur dicte des choix esthétiques franco-centrés. L’image dévalorisante de l’Afrique et de l’Africain qui se dégage de ces récits de migration rappelle finalement toute l’importance que revêt encore aujourd’hui le projet de la négritude évincé par la « migritude ».
Analysis of Transformational Teaching as a Philosophical Foundation for Effective Classrooms
Authors: Omodan Bunmi Isaiah , Addam Billey
Published: May 2022

Nowadays, many classrooms are content-based and, therefore, disadvantage students from gaining lifelong skills that could support them in their future endeavours. This study proposed transformational teaching as a veritable strategy for effective classrooms where teaching and learning are taken beyond content delivery. This theory enables teachers/instructors/lecturers to promote expressive change that could lead to life-changing experiences among students. The study answers the following question: How can transformational teaching be presented as a stimulative teaching strategy for effective classrooms. The study is located within the transformative paradigm and designed with concept analysis, where the principles of transformational teaching are conceptualised and analysed using thematic analysis. The study was implemented by exploring the theory, its assumptions, and  the connections between the theory and classroom activities. The study found that when effectively implemented in the classrooms, transformational teaching will enhance students’ lifelong learning experiences and contribute to a productive society. The study further recommends that teachers and students adopt transformational principles/strategies in curriculum facilitation (in the teaching and learning activities).
NiTiNbX ( X=Ta ve V) Biyouyumlu Şekil Hatırlamalı Alaşımların Yapay Vücut Sıvısı İçerisinde Hücre Kültür Testi ve Bakteri Üreme Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: BALCİ Esra , KARADERİ Cennet Canan , KAHRAMAN Hüseyin , DAĞDELEN Fethi
Published: May 2022

Bu çalışmada eş atomlu NiTi ve Ni27Ti50Nb23 üçlü alaşıma farklı oranlarda Ta ve V elementi katkılanarak dörtlü biyouyumlu şekil hatırlamalı alaşım (BŞHA) üretildi. Hazırlanan alaşımlar; Ni50Ti50 (EB1), Ni27Ti50Nb23 (EB2), Ni27Ti50Nb22Ta1 (E1), Ni27Ti50Nb20Ta3 (E3), Ni27Ti50Nb18Ta5 (E5), Ni27Ti50Nb22V1 (B1), Ni27Ti50Nb21V2 (B2) ve Ni27Ti50Nb18V5 (B5) şeklinde kodlandı. Daha sonra BŞHA’lar düzenli ve eş boyutta olmak üzere kesildi ve sterilizasyon işlemlerinden geçirildi. Hazırlanan alaşımların temas halinde bulunmuş olduğu yapay vücut sıvısı (SBF) laboratuvar ortamında hazırlandı ve in-vitro çalışmalarda kullanıldı. Bu çalışmada kapalı inkübatör sistemi tercih edilmiştir ve patojen bir bakteri olan Pseudomonas aeruginosa (ATCC 27853) suşu kullanılmıştır. Bakteri üretimi için, Nutrient agar besiyeri hazırlandı. Kontrol (yapay vücut sıvısı) ile numunelerin temas ettiği yapay vücut sıvısı içerisinde üreyen bakteri hücre yoğunluğu; her bir alaşım için spektrofotometre (OD600) kullanılarak belirlendi. Diğer aşamada ise; katı besi yeri içeren petri kaplarına, sıvı kültüründen (Pseudomonas aeruginosa içeren SBF) her bir alaşım için yayma yöntemi ile bakteri ekimi gerçekleştirildi. Bu süre sonunda, ultraviyole (UV) lambası ile üreyen bakteri kolonileri gözlemlendi. Biyouyumluluk derecesi incelenmesi için yapılan hücre kültür testi sonuçlarına göre değerlendirildi. Ta elementi ile katkılanmış NiTiNbTa BŞHA’ların hücre yoğunluk değerleri kontrol (SBF)’ ye göre daha düşük değerlerde olduğu gözlendi. Ayrıca, NiTiNbV BŞHA’da vanadyum elementi katkısının artması ile hazırlanan alaşımlarda çok daha düşük değerler tespit edilmiştir. Elde edilen bakteriler üreme testlerine göre, Ta elementi katkılı ortamlarda diğerlerine göre daha az bakteri kolonisi görüldüğü için NiTi alaşımlarda, Ta elementinin biyouyumluluğu arttırdığı söylenebilir.
Gerçek Dünya Mühendislik Tasarım Problemlerinin Çözümünde Kullanılan Metasezgisel Optimizasyon Algoritmalarının Performanslarının İncelenmesi
Authors: VAROL ALTAY Elif
Published: May 2022

Gerçek dünya mühendislik tasarım problemleri çok sayıda kısıtlamaları olan karmaşık amaç fonksiyonlarına sahip olmasından dolayı çözülmesi nispeten zor problemlerdir. Hem endüstride hem de disiplinler arası çalışmalarda yaygın olarak kullanılmaktadır. Bu tür problemlerle başa çıkmak için birçok optimizasyon algoritması kullanılmıştır. Fakat algoritmanın performansı, ölçeğin artması ve problemin zorluğu ile önemli ölçüde azalmaktadır. Literatürde yer alan mühendislik tasarım problemlerini etkin bir şekilde ele almak için farklı optimizasyon yöntemleri ve onların farklı versiyonları önerilmiştir. Bu çalışmada, mühendislik tasarım problemlerini çözmek için son dönemlerde ortaya çıkmış ve popüler olan metasezgisel optimizasyon algoritmaları incelenmiştir. İncelenen algoritmalar; kısıtları amaç fonksiyonları ve karar değişkenleri farklı beş gerçek dünya mühendislik tasarım problemine uyarlanmıştır ve performans analizleri gerçekleştirilmiştir.
Çanakkale Şehir Merkezi Risk Azaltma Çalışmaları ve Afet Farkındalığın Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: BEKLER Tolga , ÇİFÇİ Sait , BEKLER Feyza Nur , DEMİRCİ Alper
Published: May 2022

Afetlere karşı önlemlerin alınması ve görevlerin uygulanması iyi bir planlama ile mümkün olmaktadır. Planlamaya sahip olunmayan durumlarda, afetlerden zarar görebilme riski ortaya çıkmaktadır. Türkiye’de afetler nedeniyle verilen kayıplar oldukça fazladır. Bu nedenle önlemlerin alınması yönünde ilk olarak kayıpları azaltmak ve önlem almak için gerekli unsurlardan biri de halkın bilinçlendirilmesidir. Afet kavramı denilince akla ilk olarak deprem gelse de ülkemizde farklı türlerde afetler de görülmektedir. Çanakkale’de en çok gerçekleşen doğa kaynaklı afet türleri; deprem, sel, yıldırım düşmesi, heyelan ve orman yangınlarıdır. Bu çalışmada Çanakkale ve çevresinde gerçekleşen doğa kaynaklı afetler tanımlanmış bu afetlerdeki kayıpların risk azaltma çalışmalarıyla en az seviyede gerçekleşmesine yönelik birey temelli yansımalar ve tepkiler, anket çalışması ile araştırılmıştır. Bu amaca ulaşmak için afet yönetimi ve risk azaltma ile ilgili temel tanım ve kavramlar bazında Çanakkale’de afet yönetim sistemi saha anket çalışmaları ile afet bilinç seviyesi değerlendirilmiştir.
The Nutritional Dynamics of Common Weeds in the Rangelands of the Akdağ Mountains, Samsun
Authors: AYDIN İbrahim , OCAK Nuh
Published: May 2022

In this study, common weed species (Anthemis sp., Anthemis tinctoria L., Pilosella hoppeana Schultes, Doranicum orientale Hoffm, Muscari neglectum Guss. ex Ten., Ornithogalum armeniacum Baker, Ornithogalum narbonense L., Ornithogalum wiedemannii Boiss., Anchusa azurea Miller, Echium plantagineum L., Echium vulgare L., Ajuga orientalis L., Stachys germenica L., Juncus sp., Anacamptis pyramidalis L., Ophrys apifera Huds., Carex panicea L., Ranunculus sp., Hypericum perforatum L., Primula elatior L. Hill., and Galium rotundifolium L.) of the rangelands of Akdağ mountains, Samsun were evaluated by principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis (CA). These species were collected at least three times in two consecutive years. The proximate nutrients (organic matter, ash, crude protein, ether extract, neutral and acid detergent fibre, non-fibrous carbohydrate and hemicellulose), neutral detergent fibre properties (nitrogen-free neutral detergent fibre and in vitro neutral detergent fibre digestibility), and forage quality indicators (digestible dry matter, dry matter intake, metabolizable energy, net energy lactation, estimated net energy, total digestible nutrients, relative feed value, and relative forage quality) were assessed by chemical analysis and empirical equations. There were significant variations in the nutritional dynamics among the weed species. The PCA results demonstrated a relationship between the dietary dynamics assessed. Component 1 (65.5%) and component 2 (14.5%) described 80.0% of the total variation, with eigenvalues of 11.788 and 2.609 in the weed species, respectively. The loadings plot of components shows that most forage quality indicators were distributed to Quadrant 1 and Quadrant 4. Three clusters are observed from the CA for the weeds with significant linkage distance, indicating relatively high independence for each cluster. Due to high variation in their nutritional dynamics, the weed species (P. elatior, O. wiedemannii, O. narbonense, and G. rotundifolium) were more similar on component 1 ordination and in Cluster 1 of the dendrogram. In conclusion, our results suggest that the highlighted species have significant potential for grazing livestock as forages and could fulfilling the possible forage gap in the grazing system.
Covid 19 Pandemisinin Odyoloji Üzerine Etkisi
Authors: KÜÇÜKÖNER Asuman , KÜÇÜKÖNER Ömer , MEHEL Dursun Mehmet
Published: May 2022

Koronavirüs (COVID 19) pandemisi, odyoloji alanında çalışanlar ve odyoloji hizmetinden faydalanan hastalar için birtakım zorlukların yanında yeni iş deneyimlerini de beraberinde getirmiştir. Sosyal izolasyon ve maske kullanımı işitme güçlüğü yaşayan, işitme rehabilitasyonundan faydalanan bireyler için iletişim güçlüklerini ortaya çıkarmıştır. Görsel ipuçlarının azalması iletişimi zorlaştırmakla beraber evde tanıdık kişilerle konuşma ve arka plan gürültüsünün az olması, daha elverişli dinleme koşulları gürültüde konuşma anlaşılırlığı az olan hastalar için uygun ortam oluşturmuştur. Yüz yüze iletişim, sağlık çalışanları ve hastalar arasındaki iletişim için önemlidir. Salgının yayılmasını kontrol altına almak için kişisel temas azaltıldı. İşitsel beyin sapı yanıtları (ABR) ve videonistagmografi (VNG) gibi kişisel yakın temas gerektiren prosedürler ertelendi. Koklear implant ve işitme cihazı kullanan hastaların fitting ayarlarında gecikmeler yaşandı. Çok acil durumlar dışında hastalar hastane hizmetinden faydalanamadılar. İşitme sağlığı hizmetlerinde yaşanan aksaklıklar hastaları psikolojik olarak etkilemiştir. Odyoloji alanında çalışanların farklı alanlarda hizmet verme yükümlülüğü ortaya çıktı. COVID 19, odyoloji hizmetlerinin sunum şeklinin yeniden değerlendirmesini içeren yeni bir dönem başlattı. Tele odyoloji, tele rehabilitasyon kavramlarının gerekli olduğu benimsendi. Bu uygulamalara hızlı adaptasyon sağlandı. Odyoloji hastalarında rehabilitasyon etkinliği için takip çok önemlidir. COVID 19 krizinin etkileri yaygın olarak devam etmektedir. Odyoloji kliniklerinde değişen duruma yanıt olarak yenilikçi dijital ve tele-sağlık yaklaşımlarını hızlı bir şekilde geliştirme ve yaygınlaştırılması gerekmektedir. Bu derlemede COVID 19 krizinin odyoloji hizmetlerinin hasta ve çalışanlar üzerine olumlu, olumsuz etkileri ve odyolojik yaklaşım konuları üzerinde durulacaktır.
Hizmet Sektörü Çalışanlarının Yaşadığı Sağlık Sorunları ve Sağlıklı Yaşam Biçimi Davranışları
Authors: HENDEKCİ Ayla
Published: May 2022

Amaç: Bu çalışmada amaç, hizmet sektörü çalışanlarının yaşadıkları sağlık sorunları ve sağlıklı yaşam biçimi davranışlarını belirlemektir.

Yöntem: Çalışma, tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel türdedir. Çalışmanın evrenini, Doğu Karadeniz bölgesindeki bir ilde en büyük ilçedeki hizmet sektörü çalışanları oluşturmuştur. Örneklem evrenin bilindiği durumlardaki örneklem formülü ile belirlenmiş ve çalışma 102 katılımcı ile tamamlanmıştır. Çalışma verileri, Aralık 2019 - Şubat 2020 tarihlerinde yüz yüze toplanmıştır. Veriler literatür doğrultusunda hazırlanan Tanıtıcı Bilgi Formu ve Sağlıklı Yaşam Biçimi Davranışları Ölçeği II ile toplanmıştır.

Bulgular: Katılımcıların %69.6’sının erkek, %54.9’unun lise mezunu, %61.8’inin günlük çalışma süresinin 8 saatten az olduğu ve %63.7’sinin algıladığı iş yükünü yoğun olarak ifade ettiği belirlenmiştir. Çalışmaya katılan bireylerin en sık yaşadıkları sorun %70.6 ile stres, en az yaşadıkları sorun % 13.7 ile hapsedilmişlik duygusudur. Sağlıklı Yaşam Biçimi Davranışları Ölçeği II toplam puanı 121.76±22.73 olup en düşük puan fiziksel aktivite alt boyutunda, en yüksek puan manevi gelişim alt boyutunda bulunmuştur. Katılımcıların cinsiyet, işten memnun olma, sağlık durumu ve kronik hastalık durumları ile ölçek puanları arasında anlamlı bir ilişki bulunmuştur (p
PRODUCTION OF Pleurotus ostreatus CULTIVATED IN SUBSTRATES MADE FROM TWO INVASIVE WEEDS
Authors: Quiñónez-Martínez Miroslava , Peña-Avilés Karina , Martínez-Ruiz Nina del Rocío , Garza-Ocañas Fortunato , Nájera-Medellín Jesús Alejandro , Olivas-Sánchez Martha Patricia
Published: May 2022

The species Pleurotus ostreatus is an edible mushroom with a high commercial value, cultivated for its ease and adaptability in substrates based on agro-industrial waste. The plant species Solanum elaeagnifolium and Salsola kali are two invasive weeds that spread rapidly in crops, ruderal or urban areas, representing high-cost agricultural losses and environmental impact. The hypothesis of this research was that at least one of the weeds would increase the production and quality of P. ostreatus. The objective was to evaluate the biological efficiency and carpophore productivity of P. ostreatus with the use of substrates elaborated and combined from S. elaeagnifolim and S. kali. The fungal cultures were carried out with substrates generated from mixtures of weeds and using wheat straw as a control; from these combinations, seven treatments and four replicates were obtained in a completely randomized design. The carpophores obtained were measured for the width and length of the pileus and stipe, total production (g), biological efficiency (%), and proximate analysis of the harvested mushrooms was performed. Maximum production was 23.30 mushrooms, with minimum of 3.67 carpophores. The width and length of the pileus were 8.30-11.70 cm and 8.40-11.40 cm, respectively. The stipe length variable showed widths of 1.40-2.30 cm and lengths of 2.80-6.20 cm. The weights obtained were up to 358.33 g, with a minimum of 95.10 g. Proximate analysis showed carpophores with the following composition: 82.25-91.37 % moisture; 1.71 to 13.66 % ash; 15.70 to 20.93 % protein; 0.40 to 1.55 % lipids and 8.60-17.7 % dry matter. The variables evaluated showed differences (p ≤ 0.05), being the substrates made with 100 % S. elaeagnifolium the ones with the highest biological efficiency, carpophore production, harvest weight and nutritional value. The species P. ostreatus proved to be efficient in providing substrate for two weeds, as well as producing carpophores with high protein content.
Influencia de la insatisfacción corporal y la actividad física en el bienestar psicológico de jóvenes mexicanas (Influence of body dissatisfaction and physical activity on the psychological well-being of young Mexican women)
Authors: Blanco Vega Humberto , Jurado García Perla Jannet , Jiménez Lira Carolina , Aguirre Vásquez Susana Ivonne , Peinado Pérez Jesús Enrique , Aguirre Chávez Juan Francisco , Zueck Enríquez María Del Carmen , Blanco Ornelas José René
Published: May 2022

El objetivo principal del presente estudio fue examinar el efecto de la insatisfacción con la imagen corporal y la práctica de actividad física sobre la percepción de bienestar psicológico en jóvenes mexicanas mediante un modelo de ecuaciones estructurales. Un total de 488 estudiantes universitarias mexicanas de 18 a 24 años de edad contestaron las versiones cortas de los cuestionarios Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire, Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Física y Bienestar Psicológico de Ryff. Los resultados del modelo de ecuaciones estructurales mostraron que la práctica de actividad física, a través de la importancia subjetiva de la forma y la apariencia físicas, tiene un efecto indirecto positivo sobre la percepción de bienestar psicológico en la dimensión de autoaceptación y ésta a su vez ejerce un efecto directo positivo sobre el crecimiento personal. El modelo propuesto obtiene un ajuste satisfactorio, explicando el 38% de la varianza en la percepción de bienestar psicológico en la dimensión de crecimiento personal (variable criterio).
Summary. The main objective of the present study was to examine the effect of dissatisfaction with body image and the practice of physical activity on the perception of psychological well-being in young Mexican women using a structural equation model. A total of 488 Mexican university students between the ages of 18 and 24 answered the short versions of Ryff's Multidimensional Body Self Relations Questionnaire, International Questionnaire on Physical Activity and Psychological Well-being. The results of the structural equations model showed that the practice of physical activity, through the subjective importance of physical shape and appearance, has a positive indirect effect on the perception of psychological well-being in the self-acceptance dimension and this in turn it has a direct positive effect on personal growth. The proposed model obtains a satisfactory fit, explaining 38% of the variance in the perception of psychological well-being in the dimension of personal growth (criterion variable).
Análisis del éxito en las secuencias de finalización de los playoffs del fútbol profesional colombiano (Analysis of successful completion sequences in the Colombian professional football playoffs)
Authors: Caicedo Parada Sergio Andrés , Amatria Jímenez Mario , Villamizar Navarro Amalia
Published: May 2022

El objetivo del presente estudio fue examinar la influencia de las variables categóricas y el componente de éxito en las secuencias de finalización durante los playoffs del fútbol profesional colombiano (FPC) clausura 2017. La muestra estuvo conformada por 243 acciones de finalización ejecutadas en los 14 partidos de los playoffs del torneo clausura 2017 del FPC. Los datos se trataron bajo metodología observacional descriptiva, con un diseño ideográfico, puntual y multidimensional y un sistema de categorías teniendo en cuenta el formato de campo mixto del instrumento de observación VATOF (Valoración de Acciones Tácticas Ofensivas en Fútbol). El nivel de acuerdo (inter-observador) y la fiabilidad (intra-observador) fue calculada a través del índice de kappa de Cohen, (Cohen, 1960); con nivel de acuerdo inter observadores (p= . 95) e intra observador (p= 1). De acuerdo con los resultados de este estudio, se evidencia una tendencia clara hacia el juego defensivo por parte de los equipos del FPC; falta de elaboración de juego, creación y aprovechamiento de espacios libres manteniendo la posesión de balón para el desarrollo de juego por bandas con efectividad de remates, así como una mayor interacción entre jugadores que garantice una elaboración organizada y con profundidad de juego para la concreción de las acciones en gol. El análisis del rendimiento técnico-táctico a partir de variables categóricas, puede permitir a los entrenadores establecer características y demandas del juego y diseñar planes de entrenamiento acordes con las exigencias de la competición. 
Abstract. The aim of this study was to examine the influence of categorical variables and the success component in the finishing sequences during the 2017 Colombian professional football playoffs. The sample consisted of 243 finishing actions during the 2017 Colombian professional football playoffs, treated under descriptive observational methodology. With an ideographic, punctual and multidimensional design and a system of categories taking into account the mixed field format of the instrument designed. According to the results of this study, there is a clear tendency towards defensive play on the part of the FPC teams; lack of game development, creation and exploitation of free spaces while maintaining possession of the ball for the development of wing play with effective finishing, as well as greater interaction between players to ensure an organised development and depth of play for the concretion of the actions in goal. The analysis of technical-tactical performance from categorical variables can allow coaches to establish characteristics and demands of the game and to design training plans in accordance with the demands of competition.
Inventory control: Its principles and application
Authors: Singh Ankita , Rasania Sanjeev Kumar , Barua Kabita
Published: May 2022

Availability of good quality stock, in right quantity, at right place and time and at right cost is the essence of inventory control, which in turn is mandatory for smooth functioning and service delivery of any health care facility. Various techniques are available for inventory control, based on cost, criticality and other factors for e.g., ABC analysis, VED analysis, ABC-VED matrix, FSN analysis, SDE analysis etc. Each technique has its own strength and weakness in its applicability. Economic considerations are also imperative for logistic management of any health facility, as any cost savings could be spent more gainfully in some other way and thus more lives could be saved, reduced morbidities and overall positive impact. Future healthcare managers will have to utilize scientific methods of inventory management and the role of an efficient hospital logistics system cannot be ignored anymore. Inventory control is an important component of hospital management. It provides significant improvement in patient care, customer relationships and optimal use of resources.  The objective of this paper is to present an up-to-date review of inventory control and critically appraise its various techniques, various costs associated with it and methods of indenting stock. This review will benefit post-graduate students and public health workers in understanding the concepts and principle of inventory control and applying the same in their practice.
A follow up study of discharged COVID-19 patients admitted at tertiary care hospital of Ahmedabad city
Authors: Patel Mansi , Khanpara Hardika , Prajapati Arpit , Thakar Parth
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Though there is limited information on late sequelae of COVID-19, reports of persistent symptoms in persons who recovered from COVID-19 illness have emerged. The most frequently reported symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cough. Objectives: 1.To identify the persistence or development of various symptoms among discharged COVID-19 patients 2.To study the outcome of COVID-19 infection after one month of discharge 3.To assess the difference in the quality of life pre and post COVID-19 status of study participants by using EuroQol Visual Analogue scale. Material & Methods: A Longitudinal study was carried out among all discharged confirmed COVID-19 patients aged more than 18 years and above in 1st December 2020 to 31st December 2020. 50% of patients discharged in December 2020 were selected by simple random sampling method. Status of present symptoms at the time of discharge and after one month of discharge were taken through telephonic interview. Results: COVID-19patients had persistent symptoms like fatigue, cough, & anosmia respectively at the time of discharge. 7 (4.6%) patients found dead at the time follow up after one month. According to EQ-VAS, 79 (52.3%) COVID-19 patients perceived improved quality of life at the time of follow up one month after discharge as compare to the time of discharge. Conclusion: There is significant improvement in quality of life seen among the patients at the time of follow up than at the time of discharge. At the time of follow up, 4.6% deaths observed and some patients had persistent symptoms like fatigue, dyspnea.
Geospatial Epidemiology of chicken-pox disease in India between 2015-2021: A GIS based analysis
Authors: Minhas Akshay , Singh Mitasha , Prasad Nerella Satya Narayana , Bhardwaj Ashok
Published: May 2022

Introduction: In this paper, we introduce geographical information systems (GIS) as a tool to study trends in disease spread in time and space. Based on data gathered by the integrated disease surveillance programme (IDSP), we can see where outbreaks of Chickenpox have occurred. Objective: The aim of this study is to assess the trends in chickenpox diseases in India between January 2015 and April 2021 using GIS maps. Methods: For the collection of secondary data relating to chickenpox, a free app called collect 5 was used for collecting data weekly from the IDSP website and then storing them in an online server. In this project, variables that needed to be processed with QGIS were combined with table attributes of many shapefiles of India and presented as maps. Results: Between Jan 2015 and May 2021, 1269 chickenpox outbreaks (27,257 cases) have been recorded. Thirty-one deaths have been confirmed, with most occurring in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Nineteen states did not report any deaths. According to the seasonally adjusted trend, the number of cases was highest during the months of January and March. Conclusion:  In summary, geographic information systems have become an invaluable tool for mapping the hotspots of acute epidemics and planning public health interventions to prevent the spread of these diseases.
Sexuality Education- Understanding adolescents’ perspective
Authors: Shiradkar Swati , Mahajan Swati
Published: May 2022

Introduction: Adolescence is very dynamic phase in life and if child is not able to cope up with the changes then the effects on health are lifelong. Evidence supporting role of holistic/ comprehensive sexuality education empowering children in this coping process is present. But still the controversies exists in all countries about either acceptance, content or delivery of the sexuality education. To make curriculum more acceptable, engaging and effective, it is very important to take into consideration adolescent’s perspective. In present study, we tried to understand felt need of adolescents about sexuality education. Objective: To understand need for sexuality education. Methods: The methods used were question box, self-administered questionnaire, and name the organs in blank human figure activity all in different set of students. Results: 48% questions were to seek scientific information but extent was up to enquiring about sex toys.12% about emotional changes, 11% about cultural norms,9% about romantic relationship and 6% to clear myths. The basic knowledge about human body, pubertal changes was poor, more so in girls. The attitude towards pubertal changes was mostly negative in girls, curious in boys. The inhibition in mentioning reproductive system organs was significant in both, indicating attitude. 98% were willing to have correct knowledge about the pubertal changes and effects on life. Conclusion: The comprehensive sexuality education is unmet need in India. Taking into consideration perspective of adolescents, it should contain scientific knowledge and other relevant topics.