bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Biofilm Formation and Plasmid-Mediated Quinolone Resistance Genes at Varying Quinolone Inhibitory Concentrations in Quinolone-Resistant Bacteria Superinfecting COVID-19 Inpatients
Authors: Basnet Ajaya , Chand Arun Bahadur , Bajracharya Sohani , Shrestha Mahendra Raj , Shrestha Shila , Tamang Basanta , Dulal Maina , Pokhrel Nayanum , Shrestha Lok Bahadur 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
The likelihood of antimicrobial failure in COVID-19 patients with bacterial superinfection arises from both phenotypic (biofilms) and genotypic mechanisms. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the inhibitory concentrations of quinolones—nalidixic acid, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin—in biofilm formers (minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration [MBIC]) and nonformers (minimum inhibitory concentration [MIC]) and correlate inhibitory concentrations with plasmid-mediated quinolone resistance (PMQR) genes in quinolone-resistant bacteria isolated from COVID-19 inpatients. Quinolone-resistant bacteria (n = 193), verified through disc diffusion, were tested for quinolone inhibitory concentrations using broth microdilution and biofilm formation using microtiter plate methods. The polymerase chain reaction was used to detect PMQR genes. Study variables were analyzed using SPSS v.17.0, with a significance level set at P <0.05. MIC-to-MBIC median fold increases for ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin were 128 (2–8,192), 64 (4–1,024), and 32 (4–512) in gram-positive cocci (GPC, n = 43), respectively, whereas they were 32 (4–8,192), 32 (4–2,048), and 16 (2–1,024) in fermentative gram-negative bacilli (F-GNB, n = 126) and 16 (4–4,096), 64 (2–64), and 16 (8–512) in nonfermentative gram-negative bacilli (NF-GNB, n = 24). In biofilm-forming F-GNB and NF-GNB, qnrB (10/32 versus 3/10), aac(6′)-Ib-cr (10/32 versus 4/10), and qnrS (9/32 versus 0/10) genes were detected. A 32-fold median increase in the MIC-to-MBIC of ciprofloxacin was significantly (P <0.05) associated with qnrA in F-GNB and qnrS in NF-GNB. Biofilms formed by F-GNB and NF-GNB were significantly associated with the aac(6′)-Ib-cr and qnrS genes, respectively. Nearly one-third of the superinfecting bacteria in COVID-19 patients formed biofilms and had at least one PMQR gene, thus increasing the need for quinolones at higher inhibitory concentrations.
Understanding the Challenges of Advocacy Communication, Social Mobilization, and Operationalization for COVID-19 and Routine Immunization in Nigeria
Authors: Isiaka Saheed , Asaolu Stephen , Gab-Deedam Shiva , Jimoh Akolade , Samuel Olugbemisola , Sampson Sidney , Odey Grace , Atobatele Sunday , Okoye Irene 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
The primary goal of program communication in public health is to influence behaviors. It also aims to raise awareness and ultimately improve health outcomes. Under the umbrella of program communication exist three interconnected, interrelated, and mutually supportive communication aspects: advocacy, communication, and social mobilization (ACSM). While advocacy involves promoting political dedication and holding authorities accountable for fulfilling commitments and achieving success, social mobilization brings together various sectors and individuals to raise awareness and demand for a specific program. This study aimed to understand the operationalization and challenges of ACSM activities among health workers addressing COVID-19 and routine immunization in Nigeria. The study used a qualitative study design. In-depth interviews were conducted among health workers in the ACSM unit of the state’s primary health care system, using a two-tier approach. The recorded interviews were transcribed in Microsoft Word format by professional transcribers and coded using Dedoose. A total of 38 health care workers across six states were selected to participate in this study. Our study found that ACSM coordination structures existed across the six states. Routine ACSM activities were either funded by the government or local development partners implementing programs. Lack of technological devices, unavailability of funds, unavailability of data tools, and lack of technological skills are major barriers to ACSM operationalization. This study highlighted the critical role of government and agency funding in sustaining ACSM activities. However, barriers that hinder the effective operationalization of ACSM efforts remain. Therefore, the results support the need for strategic investment in technology, staff capacity building, and appropriate resource allocation to overcome these barriers.
Pregnancy Outcomes of Elderly Primigravidae in a Tertiary Hospital in West Africa: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Asah-Opoku Kwaku , Mumuni Kareem , Ntumy Michael , Boafor Theodore , Ameme Donne Kofi , Okere Maxfield , Godi Anthony , Oppong Samuel A. , Samba Ali 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
Elderly primigravidae refers to women who become pregnant for the first time from age 35 years and above. Advanced maternal age is a known risk factor for numerous maternal and perinatal complications. This study sought to determine pregnancy outcomes of elderly primigravidae at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital (KBTH). A retrospective cohort study was conducted. Women who had their first delivery at KBTH from January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2017 had their demographic and obstetrics and gynecology history and maternal and fetal outcomes retrieved from the department’s electronic database. Women aged 35 years or more who had their first delivery within the study period constituted the exposed, whereas those between 20 and 34 were considered unexposed. Modified Poisson regression with robust error variance estimation and the log link function between the sociodemographic and obstetric factors and maternal and fetal outcomes to estimate adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 95% CI were used. Of 29,243 total deliveries, elderly primigravidae constituted 1.81% (530/29,243). Maternal outcomes associated with elderly primigravidae were increased incidence of Caesarean section or instrument delivery (aRR [95% CI] = 1.73 [1.56–1.92]) and prolonged length of stay in hospital (aRR [95% CI] = 1.14 [1.06–1.23]). Fetal outcome associated with the elderly primigravidae was stillbirth (aRR [95% CI] = 1.91 [1.25–2.91]). Elderly primigravidae therefore require more intensive monitoring, even in the absence of any obvious maternal complications. These findings will help in counseling and in the shared decision-making for delivery of elderly primigravidae.
Cost of Snakebite and Its Impact on Household Economy in Southern Nepal
Authors: Pandey Deb Prasad , Adhikari Bhojraj , Pandey Parash , Sapkota Kalyan , Bhusal Mina Kumari , Kandel Priti , Shrestha Durga Laxmi , Shrestha Bhola Ram 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
We aimed to estimate the cost of snakebite and its impact on the economy of snakebite-affected households in southern Nepal. We conducted cross-sectional and prospective studies of confirmed snakebite cases at two hospitals in south central and southwestern Nepal during May to October 2020. We estimated the economic impact of snakebite on affected households by evaluating direct and indirect costs for treatments and opportunity costs of patients and attendants (household members or relatives). We included 553 snakebites that caused 185 envenomings (34%), resulting in 15 deaths (case fatality rate, 8%). These occurred across 87 subdistricts, 21 districts, and six provinces (25% rural, 75% urban overall). Median direct, indirect, and opportunity costs of snakebite were US$95.30, US$65.80, and US$4,995.20 for envenomings and US$14.50, US$13.50, and US$10.10 for nonenvenomed snakebites, respectively. The impact of snakebite envenomings on household economy included not only the remarkable out-of-pocket expenditure but also the loss of patients’ and visitors’ productivity (i.e., daily income/wages while seeking snakebite care in hospitals). Lack of insurance for snakebite treatment increased the psychosocial and economic burden. Deterioration in family economy and psychology was particularly severe when death from snakebite affected breadwinners. Therefore, taking action to minimize the impact of snakebite envenoming becomes a priority for all.
A Cost of Illness Analysis of Children with Encephalitis Presenting to a Major Hospital in Vietnam
Authors: Huong Nguyen Hoang Thien , Toan Nguyen Duc , Khanh Truong Huu , Thinh Le Quoc , Nhan Le Nguyen Thanh , Minh Ngo Ngoc Quang , Thoa Nguyen Thi Kim , Hung Nguyen Thanh , Quy Du Tuan , Thwaites C. Louise , Irani Sarosh R. , Tan Le Van , Turner Hugo C. 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
Encephalitis is a significant global health problem, especially in children. Knowledge of its economic burden is essential for policymakers in prioritizing the development and implementation of interventions but remains limited. An observational study was prospectively conducted at a major children’s hospital in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam from 2020 to 2022. Data on direct medical costs, direct nonmedical costs, and productivity costs were collected alongside demographic information, clinical features, diagnosis, severity, and outcomes of study participants. This was used to undertake a cost of illness analysis from a societal perspective. Data were collected from a total of 164 pediatric patients. The median cost of illness was estimated at US $1,859 (interquartile range [IQR]: US $1,273–$3,128). The direct costs were the main cost driver, accounting for 83.9% of the total cost of illness (US $1,560; IQR: US $975–$2,460). The productivity costs accounted for a median of US $275 (IQR: US $154–$474). The cost of illness was higher in more severe patients, patients with sequelae, patients with morbidities, and ventilated patients. Most direct medical costs were attributed to hospitalization and resulted in out-of-pocket payments from the patient’s family (30.2%; US $316). The results showed that the cost of illness of encephalitis in children is considerable and will be useful for policymakers in prioritizing resources for the development and implementation of intervention strategies to reduce the burden of pediatric encephalitis.
Predictors of Cholera and Acute Watery Diarrhea among Climate-Vulnerable People Living in Cabo Delgado, Mozambique: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Segala Francesco Vladimiro , Occa Edoardo , Chambisse Elsa , Cavallin Francesco , Cobre Rumela , Gelfi Giorgia , Laguessa Vitor , Moniz Jose , Chorai Abdul , Chitnis Ketan , Marotta Claudia , Chuau Inusso , Ghelardi Angelo , Mahomed Aida , Putoto Giovanni , Mussa Manuel Aly , Saracino Annalisa , Di Gennaro Francesco 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACT.
Climate change, driven primarily by greenhouse gas emissions from the Global North, is increasing the frequency and intensity of tropical cyclones in Mozambique. After Cyclones Idai and Kenneth in 2019, Cabo Delgado experienced its most severe cholera outbreak in decades. This study explores the factors associated with the prevalence of acute watery diarrhea (AWD) and cholera among people exposed to both climate disasters and armed conflicts in Mozambique. This cross-sectional, community-based study assessed the prevalence and predictors of cholera and AWD in Cabo Delgado Province. Trained community health workers conducted a structured face-to-face survey in December 2023. Associations between variables were investigated using the χ2 test or Fisher’s exact test, and a logistic regression model identified independent risk factors for cholera-like events. The study included 1,615 households and 8,366 people from six districts of Cabo Delgado Province. Children under 14 years old comprised 88% of the population, and 37.9% of households included internally displaced people. Overall, 4.3% of households experienced AWD or cholera within 3 months. Multivariable analysis identified factors associated with AWD, including study district (P <0.0001), overcrowding (P = 0.02), access to safe water (P <0.0001), and handwashing (P = 0.004). Among people exposed to climate disasters, factors associated with cholera or AWD were overcrowding and lack of access to safe water and handwashing facilities. These findings can guide policymakers in designing targeted climate adaptation interventions.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Brain Findings Among Patients With Seizure Disorder In Port Harcourt Metropolis
Authors: Omini Paulinus Samson , Eyo Archibong Bassey , Usani Usani Ephraim , Ukam Ofem Owai , Wueseter Ijever Andrew , Onen Egbe Nneoyi 
Published: November 2024

OBJECTIVE: Seizure disorder is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders, affecting approximately 50 million worldwide. About 100,000 new cases are reported in Nigeria each year. To comprehend the prevalence of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) abnormalities and their correlation with seizures, local data is essential.
METHOD: A retrospective study design was adopted to review clinical data and MRI reports of 122 patients at a tertiary medical imaging facility in Port Harcourt, Rivers State between January 2015 and January 2023. Demography, image findings, and the relationship between the MRI findings, age, and sex were data obtained and analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics with the degree of significance set at p < 0.05.
RESULTS: This study involved 64 females and 58 males, aged 0 to 89 years. About 69 (57%) patients had normal brain MRI findings, while 53 (43%) were abnormal. The most common pathologies noted were cerebrovascular disorder 14 (11.48%), followed by white matter disease 13 (10.66%), and brain tumour 10 (8.20%). Age group 0-17 years had the highest number of pathological findings (20/53; 37%), followed by age group 36-53 years (11/53; 21%), and the age group 54-57 years (9/53; 17%). Age group spanning from 73 to 86 years, had the least of abnormal findings (4/53; 0.1%). No significant association existed between sex and MRI findings.
CONCLUSION: Brain MRI findings were normal in majority of seizure patients; the most common findings were cerebrovascular abnormalities, white matter disease, and brain tumours respectively, which were more common in younger patients. The study emphasizes the significance of early MRI scans in identifying seizure-related brain pathologies, particularly in children and adolescents in their diagnostic workup of seizure disorder.
Assessing the effects of family conflicts on children’s development in Huye district of Rwanda and the need for social work interventions
Authors: Bimenyimana Pierre C. , Batakariza Ines N. , Hakizamungu Alexandre , Ngabonziza Issa , Joseph Hahirwa 
Published: November 2024

The study aimed to investigate the effects of family conflicts on children's development and the implications for the social work profession. The qualitative study guided by the conflict theory was conducted in the Huye district of Rwanda and adopted the narrative analysis of 16 interviews with families experiencing conflicts, Inshuti Z’Umuryango (IZU, Friends of Family), and local leaders who were selected on a purposive sampling basis considering that the representatives of others have more information. The study found that many children are affected by family conflicts in this district due to issues between the parents. The study also demonstrated that the main cause of family conflicts is the lack of effective communication between spouses. But there are other identified causes of family conflicts such as poverty, aggressive behaviors, infidelity, bad advice from peers, and bad leadership. Thus, the problems between partners negatively impact the children being the weaker part of the family and they drop out of school and girls may be impregnated. Social Workers in collaboration with Government Leaders are recommended to do their best to initiate more innovative programs that can be helpful for these families struggling with conflicts.
Medical Practitioner’s experiential knowledge of the roles of Medical Social Workers at the Benjamin Mkapa Hospital, Tanzania
Authors: Musuguri Joseph N. , Pittman Sharon 
Published: November 2024

Medical social work is focused on improving patient treatment results by analyzing the bio-psycho-social-spiritual components of medicine. However, medical practitioners in Tanzanian hospitals do not acknowledge medical social workers' functions in healthcare environments. This study, which investigates the roles of medical social workers in Tanzanian hospitals, has the potential to significantly impact the development of new task-sharing and health policies. Using mixed methods, 94 practitioners filled out questionnaires and interviewed 11 key informants. The study revealed that nearly three-quarters of the respondents, 66(70%) indicate that the role of hospital social workers is the mental health practitioner. More than half of the respondents that is 64(68%), indicate that hospital social workers provide patient and family counseling, 58(62%) indicate providing emotional support to patients and families, and 54(57%) indicate facilitating decision-making on behalf of patients and families. Five major themes were identified: connecting patients with members of the community, performing patients' financial analysis, maintaining the social welfare of patients and hospital staff, handling cases of abuse and violence, and diagnosing the psychosocial-spiritual problems of patients. These findings will enable groups of healthcare professionals to rationally reorganize medical social workers’ roles and improve patients’ treatment outcomes in Tanzania hospitals.
Interplay of informal and formal social support systems for single teen mothers in Rwanda’s Gicumbi District
Authors: Genereuse Mukayisenga , Walakira Eddy J. , Vincent Sezibera , Nilsen Ann C. E. 
Published: November 2024

This study explores how informal social support systems can work with formal social support to assist single teen mothers. It draws from 30 interviews, including single teenage mothers (10), some of their mothers (6), and professionals from formal social support systems (14), to explore informal and formal support mechanisms for single teen mothers. Data analysed revealed that family members, friends, peers, neighbours, and community care circles are important informal supporters. At the same time, governmental and non- governmental organisations working with teen mothers from village to district levels are critical formal support systems. Both informal and formal support systems are complementary in the lives of teen mothers. Furthermore, the research demonstrated the potential for enhancing the responsiveness of these systems to the challenges faced by single teen mothers through coordinated efforts in Rwanda. Finally, this study is helpful for social work professionals in coordinating all support systems to address the diverse needs of single teen mothers from a homegrown solution perspective. Having roots in informal social support systems, homegrown solutions can inspire formal social support systems in applying locally driven approaches to addressing teen motherhood issues.
Dictaduras y violencia política en América Latina: aproximaciones interdisciplinarias para la construcción de memorias y reparación
Authors: Espinoza Ibacache Jacqueline , Reyes Espejo María Isabel , García Quiroga Manuela , Yáñez-Urbina Cristopher , Faúndez Ximena , Sagredo Mazuela Omar 
Published: November 2024

América Latina vivió la captura sistemática de gobiernos democráticamente electos por parte de las fuerzas cívico-militares durante las décadas de 1960 y 1970. Las dictaduras se extendieron en el continente en nombre de la "salvación de la patria" o en contra del "enemigo interno" se llevó a cabo una brutal represión en contra de miles de ciudadanos/as que fueron etiquetados como terroristas y subversivos/as. A partir de los años '80, las Ciencias Sociales, políticas y humanas han configurado un campo de estudio buscando comprender los modos en que se recuerda este pasado de represión y violencia política y sus implicancias en el establecimiento de cierto orden político. Desde entonces, este campo se ha preguntado sobre los procesos democráticos de estos países en el periodo post dictatorial, las luchas sociales, estructurados sobre el eje de los derechos humanos y la gestión de los traumas como efecto de la violencia de Estado. Los estudios de la memoria se han ocupado principalmente de analizar las formas de elaborar el recuerdo de un pasado de violaciones y en función del imperativo de los movimientos por los derechos humanos: recordar para no repetir nunca más y contribuir al desarrollo de reparación, justicia y verdad. Este número de Psicoperspectivas busca aportar a los esfuerzos interdisciplinarios por comprender los efectos socioculturales y psicológicos en el presente de la represión estatal, problematizando los escenarios, las políticas, los/as sujetos/as y los discursos que intervienen en la interpretación de los pasados dictatoriales y de violencia política en América Latina.
The effect of group size and laying month on the quality, IgG, and corticosterone levels of goose eggs
Authors: Brassó Lili Dóra , Komlósi István , Czeglédi Levente , Gulyás Gabriella 
Published: November 2024

Abstract. Environmental stress is known to negatively affect poultry health, production, and egg quality. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of two different group sizes and the laying month on egg quality characteristics as well as the effect of group size on corticosterone and IgG levels in goose eggs. The research was conducted on a semi-free-range goose breeder farm in Hajdú–Bihar county, Hungary. The eggs included in the analysis were produced by 4-year-old geese of the Grimaud breed. Two group sizes were constructed; the large group contained 850 birds; and there were three small groups, each containing 50 geese as replicates. The effect of the laying month and group size on egg quality parameters and the effect of group size on egg IgG and corticosterone contents were investigated. Eggs laid in January at the peak of production and at the end of February (low-production period) were involved in the study. Regarding the effect of months, we noticed a decrease in egg width (from 6.12 to 5.98 cm), shell thickness (from 0.76 to 0.61 mm at the blunt end, from 0.69 to 0.61 mm at the equator, and from 0.65 to 0.56 mm at the pointed end), shell weight (from 19.56 to 18.19 g), yolk weight (from 69.05 to 62.35 g), yolk ratio (from 36.45 % to 34.43 %), yolk diameter (from 7.09 to 6.59 cm), and yolk colour with fan (from 12.58 to 11.83) and b∗ (from 54.57 to 49.91) (P ≤ 0.05). The albumen ratio and yolk pH increased from 53.24 % to 55.51 % and from 6.18 to 6.29 from January to February, respectively. Regarding group size, the albumen pH (8.77 vs. 8.67), IgG (4955 vs. 3823 ng mL−1), and corticosterone (187.26 vs. 76.24 ng mL−1) levels were higher in the small groups (P ≤ 0.05).