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Oct 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-22-4329
Adejoh Attah TimothyCorresponding author
National Space Research and Development Agency, Obasanjo Space Centre, Umaru Musa Ydar'adua express way, P.M.B. 437, Lugbe, Abuja
Introduction Malaria in pregnancy is a serious public health concern that could result in detrimental health outcomes for pregnant women and their foetuses. In Nigeria, there is still a significant risk of the disease epidemic and adverse effects especially in pregnancy. The aim of this study is to assess the socio-demographic factors associated with Intermittent Preventive Treatment and health seeking behaviours for malaria in pregnancy among women of reproductive ages in Nigeria Methods Using the National Demographic Survey (NDHS) 2018 data, a cross sectional study was conducted to assess socio-demographic factors associated with Intermittent Preventive Treatment (IPT) for Malaria among Nigerian women of reproductive ages. Result Majority were between ages 30-39 years (39.5%), married/cohabiting (91.8%), Muslims (59.5%), from the north (68.9%), uneducated ( 49.9%), poor (47.5%), and grand parous (65.7%). 63.4% of the women had taken fansidar for malaria in pregnancy while only 6.1% had received healthcare for malaria from informal sources. Except for marital status, all socio-demographic variables (regions, highest educational level, wealth index, age group, religion and parity) were significantly associated with intake of IPT. Additionally, region, education, wealth index, age group, marital status and religion were associated with health seeking behaviour for malaria in pregnancy (P<.05). After control for other variables, wealth index, highest educational level, married/cohabiting marital status and religion was significantly associated with intake of IPT while region, primary and secondary education, poorer and richest wealth index, widowed/separation influenced health seeking for malaria in pregnancy (P<.05). Conclusion The National Malaria Elimination programme should evaluate existing policies that develop interventions that are centred on high risk population in order to prevent malaria in pregnancy while improving health seeking behaviours of women of reproductive ages.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-20-3305
A.J ThatheyusCorresponding author
PG & Research Department of Zoology, The American College, Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Mosquitoes depend on blood meal for the development of their eggs into offsprings. By knowing the biting behaviour of mosquitoes, we may control mosquito-borne diseases and manage the mosquitoe menace successfully. The present study has been designed to study the biting behaviour of the filarial vector, Culex quinquefasciatus Say, in Madurai, Tamil Nadu, India from July to November 2006. This period was selected as mosquitoes are prevalent during this rainy season. Biting was more during September, October and November and the maximum of 28 caught/man/hour was recorded in November. It is predominantly an exophilic biter, but biting was also noticed as maximum inside the house during July in the study. The density of the biting population in the first floor was more than that of the second floor, which indicated the existence of vertical stratification in the biting behaviour of Cx quinquefasciatus.
Aug 2019
Khachidze IrmaCorresponding author
Beritashvili Centre of Experimental Biomedicine, Tbilisi, Georgia and Caucasus University
Objective Antisocial behavior (ASB) in children and youth is public health problem in Georgia. Nevertheless, there has been no systematic study the risk factors for ASB that could counteract on ASB development. To prevent ASB development and acceleration the understanding of biological (assessment of Brain morphology using MRI) and psychological (assessment using Freiburg Personality Inventory) risk factors is critical. This was the aim of this study. Method The children/youth with ASB tendency (AST) were identified by the Freiburg Personality Inventory (FBI). The biological and psychosocial factors contributing to AST were evaluated using a semi-structured clinical interview. Brain anatomy and morphology was studied using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Results Children/youth with AST had significant abnormalities in most axial elements of the DSM multi-axial system but not in brain anatomy measured by MRI. Conclusion Early identification of ASB tendencies and a provide correlationship between specific psychiatric, medical and family stress factors will likely reduce the number of children/youth with ASB and will promote their integration into society.
May 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2059
Jnr. John Elvis HaganCorresponding author
Neurocognition and Action - Biomechanics"- Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
Extant epidemiological and social diagnosis information shows an alarming upsurge in the prevalence of overweight and obesity over the last decade in developing countries including Ghana. Despite literature on the dangers and associated risk factors of these two health related constructs is well-written and documented, there seems to be a distinct knowledge gap on cultural influences that may trigger the onset of overweight and obesity, and related comorbidities. This review paper provides a general overview on overweight and obesity, and presents a supportive evidence of their rising prevalence as well as associated overall implications on public health in Ghana. Additionally, the paper explores how indigenous cultural perceptions, beliefs and norms impact on dietary and physical activity behaviours of the people. Based on available evidence, the complementary role of behaviour modification towards the management of overweight and obesity is suggested. The PEN-3 model as an appropriate cultural framework is proposed for future empirical investigations. This would afford programme planners to assess how to design culturally underpinned appropriate intervention programmes that would positively influence long term behavioural practices of the local people.
Apr 2026 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-1101.jhp-26-6100
Asif-Malik AmanCorresponding author
Honour and shame are central moral constructs within many South Asian communities, yet their psychological internalisation in diasporic contexts remains underexamined. This qualitative study explored how young British South Asian women (aged 18–25; N = 6) understand and negotiate honour in relation to gender, religion, and identity. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis. Six interrelated themes illustrated honour as a gendered and relational system sustained through anticipatory shame, behavioural surveillance, and sexual double standards. Participants described internalised self-monitoring, bicultural identity tension, and strategic resistance through selective compliance and religious reinterpretation. We propose that honour and shame in minority diaspora contexts function as a moral-emotional identity-regulation system characterised by anticipatory shame, relational accountability, and boundary maintenance under racialisation. This conceptualisation advances acculturation and bicultural identity frameworks by arguing that moral emotion, particularly anticipatory shame, functions as a primary mechanism of cultural internalisation, rather than merely an outcome of value endorsement. The findings further illuminate how moral surveillance shapes identity negotiation and psychological wellbeing, with implications for culturally responsive community and clinical practice.
Oct 2024
Frais TonyCorresponding author
Both the human body and the natural world are governed by multiple complex systems. These systems have feedback loops which is a process in which the outputs of a system are circled back and used as inputs. Where there are multiple systems, there is always the potential for a catastrophic system failure. If a system fails in the human body, this can lead to a number of life-threatening and debilitating diseases such as cancer. Diseases such as cancer is in effect, the result of a catastrophic system failure. There are cancer cases in which the root cause of the disease is unknown. System failure in the human reproductive system can lead to congenital birth defects. In cases of a system failure leading to congenital birth defects, some of the causal factors are known but in 65% of these cases, the reasons for this reproductive system failure are unexplained. There are neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s where again, the root causes are unknown. Then there are a number of infectious diseases where the root cause is unknown. The initial causative factors for most of these human diseases are well known. What has yet to be fully understood is the primary root cause that triggers and underpins these system failures in the first place. Nature also has devastating system failures such as in earthquakes and hurricanes. Humans and nature are a close partnership and nature can influence human health. Nature’s systems are deeply interconnected and often exhibit complex behaviours due to positive and negative feedback loops present in both nature and human body systems. Using systems methodology and systems thinking and philosophical insights, the objective is to try to ascertain the answer as to why there are these unknown root causes of diseases; questions that presently, science alone cannot explain. It will be argued that as man and nature are as one, the answers as to why human body systems fail leading to disease may lie not in science but in nature.
Sep 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-137X.ji-24-5207
Olutola AyodotunCorresponding author
COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy has emerged as a major challenge to global efforts to control the pandemic, particularly in Nigeria, where hesitancy to other effective vaccines such as polio and measles has been widely reported. Several individual, societal, and structural factors contribute to this behaviour and prevent the effectiveness of COVID-19 prevention efforts. Objectives This study sought to identify the predictors of COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in the seven states of North-Central, Nigeria. Methods A population-based cross-sectional online survey was conducted among residents using a semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the WHO SAGE vaccine hesitancy scale and distributed via social media networks over 8-weeks. Results A total of 1,429 responses met the inclusion criteria and were analysed. Among the respondents, 60.7% were males, 47.5% were between the ages of 26 and 45, and 80.1% had postsecondary education. A total of 421 respondents (29.5%) were hesitant and unwilling to receive the vaccine. The reasons for hesitancy were concerns about side effects (37.1%), doubt about the existence of COVID-19 (11.0%), and the perception of time required to receive the vaccine (9.6%). Post-secondary education (AOR: 0.49, 0.36-0.66) and people of the Islamic faith (AOR: 0.68, 0.52-0.90) were found to be associated with lower levels of hesitancy. Conclusion The study found that vaccine hesitancy is a complex problem that is linked with multiple social determinants of health as lower educational attainment, lower income and Christian faith were found to be predictors of vaccine hesitancy. Confidence, Complacency and Convenience factors were expressed by respondents as concerns about side effects, doubt about the existence of COVID-19 and time required to receive the vaccines were the most prominent reasons for unwillingness to receive the vaccine. In order to protect the public health of communities, targeted interventions are required to increase vaccine acceptance by cultivating trust in vaccines, disseminating accurate information, and engaging with community stakeholders including religious groups.
May 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.3066-8042.jac-24-4991
Samantaray SoumyashreeCorresponding author
Attention deficit hyperactive disorder is characterised by set of neurological based symptoms in children which falls into broadly two categories; inattention and hyperactive impulsive behaviour. It adversely affect child in various areas like social skill, communication, routine of daily life, academic performance and many.It not only affects the child but also other family members. ADHD often creates unproductive pattern, spouse conflict and poor quality of life. Because of executive function issue, ADHD child face difficulty in establishing and maintaining routines from morning to night which increase demands on parents. As a result parents becomes more exhausted ,emotionally triggered and breakdown.This study shows establishing consistent mindfulness routine make daily life simpler and easier for both the parent and children with ADHD.
Apr 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-23-4412
Bist AmritCorresponding author
Background People may have both negative and positive attitudes about other people, their way of living and those attitudes can be influenced by various factors. LGBTIQ individuals are facing various difficulties and barriers to run their daily life due to different attitudes of people. Attitudes may be different from person to person influenced by their knowledge, acceptance behaviour and understanding. By finding out the associated factors that influences the attitude of people we can change people’s view towards LGBTIQ individuals. Each and every person deserves to be treated equally regardless of their gender, sexual orientation, and preferences. Methods This was a cross-sectional study in which the sample size was 423 and the study population was nursing students. A simple random sampling method was used to select sample for the study. Self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data. The collected data was entered in EPI 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS 25. A descriptive statistic was used to find out the frequency and percentage and analysis (chi-square) was used to find out the association between the dependent and independent variables. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Results showed that 87.2% have positive attitudes towards LGBTIQ individuals, and the majority (56.6%) have knowledge about homosexuality. Similarly, more than two-thirds (82.7%) of respondents were not homophobic, and 50.4% showed positive stereotypes about LGBTIQ individuals. Religion (p=0.030), caste (p=0.001) and Family type (p=0.016) were statistically significant with regard to the attitudes of students towards LGBTIQ. Conclusion The majority of students had positive attitudes towards LGBTIQ individuals and few had negative attitudes. Almost half of the respondents had adequate knowledge about homosexuality. The majority of students were not homophobic and few were homophobic. Half had positive stereotypes and about other half had negative stereotypes.
Mar 2023
Abdellatif ElaakiliCorresponding author
In the present document, the dynamic analysis of isotropic materials applied to the laminated composite beam has been studied to improve the simplification of the homogenization process of heterogeneous composite materials.12 This study is based on the conventional stratified theory of Von Karman's formulation and the kinetic energy of Euler Bernoulli developed through displacement relationships. The model used in this study to explain the problem of non-linear geometry in the free vibration applied of laminated beam is based on the Hamilton's principle for solving the motion equation and determining the frequency of the reaction of the rolled beam. The numerical of the symmetric an asymmetric material gives a good idea of the behaviour of the orthotropic materials, and to minimize the problem of many areas used these materials such as: dental medicine, aeronautical, aerospace, because they have a good strength, high rigidity.23 The comparison between the different lay up may give greater importance to this study and open the search to simplify the problem of non linear geometry and give a good result about the older other published. For instance the application of medicine,the researcher has to decode the compatibility of the human body with new materials,and to minimize the problem of deterioration,The comparison with different lay up give more interesting by the mechanical engineering and the researcher's to give the solution of no linear problem and optimize the composite material’s to adaptation with problem study.4
Feb 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-22-4302
Edeowede Abhulimen AbelCorresponding author
The Gas Turbine operation was investigated with a view to evolving a system designed to provide a realistic imitation of the controls and operation of a Gas Turbine, used for training purposes. Operator Training Simulator has been widely adopted by many industries being a computer simulation which attempts to model a real-life plant so that it can be studied. A well trained and skilled operator is key in increasing power plant safety and productivity. Therefore, enabling quality training for operators is becoming more important as they need to handle increased load of information and duties whereas the lack of training is a major reason for inadequate performance. By changing variables in the simulator, predictions are made about the behaviour of the engine. It is a tool to virtually investigate the behaviour of the system while in operation. This work becomes indispensable because it is prohibitively expensive or simply too dangerous to allow trainees use the real equipment in a power plant. The Gas Turbine operation’s simulator is born from Object Oriented Programming, employing key programming languages. The simulator design focused on specific tasks in the operation of the Gas Turbine which include; startup, synchronization and monitoring of vital parameters like vibration, temperature, pressure, and angle of the Inlet Guide Vane. The statuses of various valves, pumps and motors as well as the Performance of actuators and the response of concatenated components are also being tracked. The simulator was found to effectively mimic a real plant life. With this simulator, trainee operators in Gas Turbine can spend time learning valuable lessons in a "safe" virtual environment yet living a lifelike experience. This will go a long way in minimizing operators’ error in GT power plants, thereby curtailing power outages and conserving power plant components.
Nov 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-22-4354
Marks RayCorresponding author
Department of Health and Behavior Studies, Columbia University, Teachers College New York, USA.
Background Osteoarthritis, the most common joint disease and one affecting a large number of older adults is not always amenable to the use of passive interventions such as surgery or pharmacologic interventions, but even then, to maximize any desirable intervention approaches, a trustworthy and supportive partnership with the sufferer is strongly indicated. Complicating this process are emerging equity and persistent health literacy issues, as well as post COVID-19 service associated ramifications and persistent disease risks. Aim This mini review was designed to examine what current data reveal as regards the presentation of osteoarthritis and its pathology among the older adult as of the current post COVID-19 pandemic period in 2022, and how health literacy and equity issues are likely implicated in some degree with the disease presentation and its outcomes and will be likely to continue, unless remediated. Methods Peer reviewed published articles on this topic were sought from multiple data bases using the key words- osteoarthritis, health equity, health literacy, prevention, and intervention. Results As in prior years, osteoarthritis continues to induce considerable physical disability and consistently impedes the attainment of a high life quality for many older adults. Although not studied to any degree, attention to health equity and literacy issues appear to pose additional osteoarthritis intervention challenges, especially among the long COVID affected older adults and those with low income and educational levels. Conclusions Many behaviourally oriented and necessary osteoarthritis management approaches and interventions may fail to reduce the functional disability and pain experienced by older people with any form of osteoarthritis to any meaningful degree if a) the provider does not tailor their recommendations in light of possible prevailing health literacy, economic, and educational challenges; b) the patient does not understand how their health behaviours impact joint disease as well as COVID-19 risk status, and are not empowered to undertake these.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-1101.jhp-21-3937
J. Grant Coke MoniqueCorresponding author
Bullying in higher education among educators has been researched at the international level and the present evidence strongly exists with need for further research regarding prevention 23456. Strong empirical research has been published on bullying with viewpoints on the damages to leadership, supervision, incivility and abuse experienced by educators 1256. Bullying in higher educational organizations has been observed with antecedents of power, “wanting to get ahead”, favoritism, and other precursors and challenges of incivility leading to bullying 1234. Workplace bullying antecedents and effects, describe the possible experiences, background, and precursors, that would reveal workplace bullying 12. Bullying in higher academia can result from behaviours and experiences that show humiliation, overtalking others, aggression, exclusion of others, disengagement of employees, among other subtle ways of silencing others 12347. It is therefore still important that educators continue to have a positive, purposeful and productive research driven approach towards solutions for preventing bullying in educational organizations.
Jun 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3758
Hewageegana NS RajapaksaCorresponding author
National Consultant Health System Enhancement Project Sri Lanka
“Health Promoting Village” concept named as “Happy Villages” started in 2007 in Badulla District in Uva Province was a community mobilization process through which village communities have been empowered to look after their community health. The areas included were Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD), Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) prevention , Alcohol and drug abuse. Gender Based Violence. The programmed used many interactive tools as “Mood Chart” or “Happiness Calendar” which was giving a visualizing effect. Continuous assessments done from 2009 to 2013 showed that the Health promotion strategies used in the Happy Village concept in the Uva Province can effectively and efficiently be utilized for improvement of nutrition and achievement of milestones in children. From 2017 a National program is launched named “Happy Villages”. During the Covid 19 outbreak health promotion approaches were initiated to change in lay communities successfully. Villagers had actively engaged, collectively acted in responsible manner, and identified measures to prevent COVID-19 transmission in their households, neighbourhood and community. The use of village empowerment had become a fruitful source to face the Covid pandemic in Sri Lanka. Almost 300 “Happy Villages” around the country have made facing the Covid epidemic their chief task. Many innovative ideas and practices in facing Covid 19 pandemic at village level including a visualizing calendar to identify the risk behaviours of the family members as well as the Happiness calendar to identify the family stress levels are among them. Health promotion concept is getting rooted around the country with active participation of the villages with a multisectoral support. Continuous monitoring and evaluation and sharing best practices will show the world the effectiveness of Health Promotion and the ability of empowered people in facing pandemic situations
Feb 2021
E.E. Enwereji,Corresponding author
College of Medicine Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria.
Introduction Risk reduction intervention is meant to provide enhanced and desirable interventions for HIV prevention among adolescents especially the in-school. Adolescents have been identified as the most vulnerable groups that can easily acquire human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Therefore, adolescents are the appropriate target for HIV prevention efforts. Most interventions for adolescents focus on providing AIDS-related education with the assumption that improving knowledge would enable adolescents to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. Numerous studies have shown that using class-room education alone is insufficient in reducing adolescents’ risky sexual behaviours. Therefore, this study used role-plays and peer facilitation for the study. Materials and Method The study used role-play and peer facilitation for the intervention strategy. The theme of the role-play was ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention which was aimed to reduce HIV risk behaviours among sexually inexperienced adolescents. The role-play was carried out by 4 peer leaders who were trained in the theoretical framework of role-plays and peer facilitation by a consultant. With mastery and experience they carried out the role play in a regular classroom section for over 3 class periods, co-facilitated with the assistance of a volunteer teacher. A unique feature of this intervention was the dual focus on strategies that influenced both individual risk factors (i.e., attitudes, behavioural skills) and social environments (e.g., peer resources). A school was chosen by simple random sampling for the intervention. In the school chosen, a total sample of 65 students in senior secondary classes 2&3 ( SS2&3) were included in the study. These were the students considered to be sexually active who can respond to the questions in the questionnaire. Self-administered pre-and post-questionnaire were completed by the students. The results were analysed using frequency tables, descriptive and inferential statistics. Results The students studied were between the ages of 13-18 years. There was evidence that the role play ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention created positive effects on reduction of HIV risk behaviours among the sexually inexperienced participants aged 13–18. Perceptions on methods of preventing risk reduction behaviours were also positively impacted by the intervention as 12(18.5%) and 34(52.3 %) of the respondents realized after post- intervention that having sex with someone outside marriage and being transfused with infected blood respectively Will constitute risk to HIV infection. Conclusion The role play which used the theme ‘My Future is My Choice’ (MFMC) intervention provided safer choices for reducing one or more measures of sexual risk behaviours among the sexual inexperienced respondents. It created the opportunity for the students to recognize that engaging in unprotected sex constitutes high risk for HIV, other sexually transmitted infections and pregnancy.
Jan 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-20-3633
E.E Enwereji,Corresponding author
College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Abia State University, Uturu Abia State.
Introduction HIV prevention services to in-school adolescents need good planning and management. HIV risk reduction interventions are geared toward measuring sexual risk behaviour outcomes of adolescents that predispose them to HIV infection. The sexual behaviour of adolescents, especially in-school adolescents should be assessed in the process. Adolescents have been identified as the most vulnerable group for acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and as such, measures should be taken to prevent them from infection. One important reason for higher HIV prevalence among adolescents, especially girls, is the frequent practice of age-discrepant partnering, where older men, who are more likely to be infected with HIV, form sexual partners with younger girls. The objective of this study is to assess the knowledge and sexual behaviour of in-school adolescents in the prevention of HIV and AIDs in rural areas of Abia State. Materials and Methods This is a descriptive cross-sectional survey that was conducted between January and March 2020. Information was collected from 66 students of a community secondary school in the state. Participants were selected by a multi-stage sampling method and data were obtained using a semi-structured pre-tested questionnaire. Results Respondents consisted of 40(60.6%) females and 26(39.4%) males with ages ranging from 13 to 19. Some of the respondents 28 (42.4%), are living with parents while 24(36.4%) live with close relatives. A good number of the respondents 39(59.1%), accepted that their friends are HIV positive. Majority of them 49(74.2%) have not been approached for sexual relationships. About 17(25.8%) of the respondents accepted that they have boyfriends and girlfriends. Out of this number, 12(18.2%) of them said they have been approached for sex and only 2(3%) of them accepted having sexual relationships with the opposite sex. Finding showed that only 1(1.5%) of the respondents claimed to have ever used condoms during sex. Of the sexually active respondents, 49(74.2%) of them are aware that HIV is a virus infection caused by having multiple sex partners while 14(21.2%) were not sure whether HIV is a virus or bacterial infection. Conclusion The study revealed a gap in the knowledge of HIV prevention as well as inappropriate sexual behaviour among the respondents. Therefore, meaningful strategies that will be culturally sensitive to modify adolescent sexual risk behaviours should be adopted.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-5773.jcdp-20-3577
Bajaj AnubhaCorresponding author
MD. (Pathology) Panjab University, Department of Histopathology, A.B. Diagnostics, A-1, Ring Road, Rajouri Garden, New Delhi, 110027, India.
Low grade fibromyxoid sarcoma (LGFMS) is an exceptional, low grade, soft tissue sarcoma with indolent biological behaviour, extensive preclinical stage, enhanced localized tumour reoccurrence and delayed, distant metastasis. As the deceptively benign neoplasm was initially scripted by Evans in 1987, the tumefaction is nomenclated as “Evan’s tumour”. Incidence of sarcomas is nearly 1% of adult malignancies wherein low grade fibromyxoid sarcoma represents roughly beneath <5% of soft tissue sarcomas 1.
Sep 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2693-1176.ijgh-20-3545
Ezinna E EnwerejiCorresponding author
Department of Public Health, College of Medicine, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria
Public health professionals working in rural communities are aware of the health disparities which result from lack of physicians, limited services, and income during the pandemic. Also they are aware that some populations are more vulnerable than others. People in the rural areas are experiencing problems on their physical, social and economic life styles because the pandemic is exacerbating some inequities. Individuals especially women and children in the rural areas are facing barriers in accessing health care services due to lack of resources and availability of health care providers in the communities. With COVID-19, women are less likely to seek services, including sexual and reproductive health services. Such services may be postponed to limit exposure to COVID-19 infection. This is particularly disturbing because in addition to the women maintaining their own health, they are also responsible for taking care of the mental, emotional and physical health needs of their families as well as all domestic responsibilities. As such, women in rural settings face special challenges as a result of these significant roles they play. Therefore, the impacts of COVID-19 are exacerbated on women by virtue of their sex and the roles they play in the family. This is a qualitative study that reviewed the reports of the 36 health care professionals under the aegis of members of COVID-19 committee working in partnership with state government to control, prevent and cushion the effects of COVID-19 in the society. This study is therefore, a summary of the observations of the COVID-19 committee members made up of 10(27.8%) females and 26(72.2%) males. The study focused on exploring how individual lifestyles in the rural areas have been affected in the face of COVID- 19 pandemic by identifying the vulnerabilities in social, political and economic systems which can amplify the impacts of the pandemic. Findings showed that preventive measures like lockdown and social distancing rules, wearing of face mask, hand washing with soap, and environmental cleanliness were not observed. The study noted that health seeking behaviours, sexual and marital life including income, education, employment and social interactions were all negatively affected. Most hospitals were battered and health care professionals boycotted the hospitals for fear of being infected. It was found that lack of health workers in the hospitals caused a good number of individuals to engage in self-medications. Also most pregnant women delivered their babies at home and few with traditional birth attendants. Some of the women who had deliveries at home experienced complications during and after delivery. Unfortunately, the report showed that governments’ financial supports to these women and their family members were insignificant as the government was more concerned with mitigating the spread of COVID-19 than assisting women to have safe deliveries. Therefore, the vulnerable groups especially women, children, and the elderly who experienced threats to their safety and wellbeing as a result of the services that were disrupted during the pandemic, should be assisted so as not to lose their lives to preventable diseases.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3338
Chibueze Izah SylvesterCorresponding author
Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria
This study investigated the acute toxicity of Clariasgariepinusfingerlings. The fingerlings of Clariasgariepinuswere acclimatized for 1 week before the range-finding test was carried out at varying concentrations. Sublethal concentration (viz: 0.00ppm, 10.80 ppm, 18.00 ppm, 25.20 ppm, 32.40 ppm and 39.60 ppm of the 2,4-D Dimethylamine salt) were made in a rectangular aquarium. Each experimental concentration was carried out in triplicate with 10 fish each. The media were renewed at every 24 hours throughout the experimental duration viz: 96 hours. When the fish were introduced into the aquarium containing the toxicants, they exhibited some behavioural changes including opercular movement, air gulping and irregular swimming pattern. The mortality rate significantly increased as the concentration of the 2,4-D Dimethylamine salt increased for each of the exposure duration. The LC50 values at 24, 48, 72 and 96 were 86.15 ppm, 36.28 ppm, 18.72 ppm and 15.68 ppm, respectively. From the findings of this study, there is a need for exercise caution in the use of 2,4-D Dimethylamine salt based herbicides close to the aquatic ecosystem.
May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3324
Rutayisire ErigeneCorresponding author
Department of public Health, Mount Kenya University Rwanda Kigali Rwanda
Knowledge of tuberculosis has been shown to influence health seeking behaviour. The study aim was to assess knowledge of tuberculosis and identify the associated factors. This study was a cross sectional descriptive research design with quantitative approach. The target population was the TB patients visited health facilities in Gakenke District. A sample of 376 TB patients was randomly selected from three health centers. Interview-administrated structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 376 TB patients. Data was analyzed with SPSS-version 22. The study protocol was approved by Mount Kenya University Rwanda. The majority of respondents 71.0% were male, 51.6% were aged 45 years and above, 81.9% were married, and 65.2% had completed primary education. Few respondents identified a germ as the cause of TB (24.7%). This study revealed that 54.3% of TB patients had good knowledge about TB. The findings from multivariate analysis show that male were three times more likely to have good knowledge about TB compared to female (AOR=3.31, 95%CI: 1.98-5.53, p<0.001). Compared to TB patients aged 45 years and above, respondents aged 25-34 years old were more likely to have good knowledge about TB (AOR=38.71, 95%CI: 9.22-162.48, p<0.001). TB patients who live between 2-5 km from nearest health facility were more likely to have good knowledge about TB compared to those who live at more than 5 km (AOR=33.58, 95%CI: 14.95-74.40, p<0.001). The ministry of health and other stakeholders in health sector need to continue the interventions that aim to reduce TB infection.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2372-6601.jhor-20-3293
Demiral SelcukCorresponding author
Department of Radiation Oncology, University of Health Sciences, Gulhane Medical Faculty, Ankara, Turkey
Objective Meningiomas are most common intracranial benign tumors comprising around one third of all intracranial neoplasms, and typically have benign and indolent nature with slow-growing behaviour. Benign meningiomas are slow growing tumors typically following an indolent disease course. Nevertheless, atypical or anaplastic meningiomas may follow a more aggressive disease course with invasion of critical structures and recurrences. In the current study, we evaluate the incorporation of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for radiosurgery treatment planning of atypical meningiomas. Materials and Methods Atypical meningioma radiosurgery target volume determination with and without incorporation of MRI has been evaluated. Ground truth target volume used as the reference has been outlined by the board-certified group of radiation oncologists after comprehensive assessment, thorough collaboration and consensus. Results Target volume definition by use of Computed Tomography (CT)-only imaging and by CT-MR fusion based imaging has been comparatively evaluated in this study for linear accelerator (LINAC)-based radiosurgical management of atypical meningioma. Ground truth target volume defined by the board-certified radiation oncologists after detailed evaluation, collaboration, colleague peer review and consensus has been found to be identical to target determination by use of CT-MR fusion based imaging. Conclusion Despite significant progress in neurosurgical techniques over the years, complete surgical resection may not be feasible in the presence of meningiomas located at eloquent brain areas in close association with important neurovascular structures. RT may have a role in multidisciplinary management of meningiomas. Incorporation of MRI into treatment planning for radiosurgery of atypical meningiomas may improve target definition despite the need for further supporting evidence.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2639-3166.jar-20-3260
Masoero GiorgioCorresponding author
Accademia di Agricoltura di Torino, Via A. Doria 10, 10123 Torino (Italy).
The management of the inoculation of a plant’s roots, by means of biofertilizers (BF) containing arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, is aimed at inducing modifications of the quality of the seeds. It is here shown that a seed-soil treatment can be elicited in the fingerprints of a symbiotic treatment using Near Infra Red (NIR)-SCiO NIR-SCiO spectra collections of single kernels: overall, a sensitivity of 73% and a specificity of 73% have been achieved, thus suggesting that it may be possible to assign the symbiotic origin of corn from just twenty kernels, provided that the dataset is adequately representative of the cultivar and AM. A global correlation study has shown a positive general trend (R2 0.45) of quality vs. quantity, in the sense that an increase in yield corresponded to an increase in the spectral differences between the symbiotic spectra and the control ones, but the inverse was also true, as a result of the parasitic behaviour of the BF treatments. The efficacy of the symbiosis can be back predicted from the NIR spectra; in fact, around 90% of the positive yield outcome results were discriminated from the negative ones. A reduction in the foliar pH (R2 0.37) and an increase in the foliar protein (R2 0.43) were observed as immediate phenotypic signs of a productive symbiosis. The commercial raw composition of the kernels appeared to only be affected slightly by the BF treatments; thus, till now uncharted secondary compounds of the maize kernels are involved, as supported by animal performances.
Mar 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-20-3225
di Virgilio FabrizioCorresponding author
DVM, Clinique Vétérinaire Vet24 – 59700 – Marcq en Baroeul, France
Objective To evaluate/ determine the risk factors for dogs presented with Gastric Dilation- Volvulus (GDV) to a referral veterinary centre and to compare the results with those currently reported in veterinary literature. Materials and Methods The observational case-control study comprised a population of 215 dogs that attended the referral centre between 2000 and 2018. Medical records were searched for GDV and those matching the criteria were manually reviewed. A questionnaire was completed by the owners of the dogs involved in the study (both case and control populations) in order to gain further information that could be considered relevant to GDVs. In particular, information included the dogs’ behaviour and the dogs daily activities. Results The study included 115 cases of GDV and 115 controls. Out of the GDV dogs 13% (15/115) were small breed dogs and the remaining 87% (100/115) either large or giant breeds. The following risk factors for developing a GDV have been identified: Purebred dogs over 3 years old and either large of giant breeds, weighing > 30 kg. Foreign body ingestion, diarrhoea, and grass consumption were also associated to increase the likelihood in developing GDV. Behavioural temperament was not associated with developing GDV. Clinical Significance The findings support previously identified risk factors in the development of GDV, but characteristics related to the dogs temperament warrant further investigation. Knowledge of these results will further allow clinicians to make evidence‐based recommendations to owners in attempting to prevent GDV in dogs. Furthermore this paper confirms that the risk of GDV in certain breeds and in certain conditions is always high and that GDV is still an extremely current disease.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2690-0904.ijoe-20-3205
Neuberger ManfredCorresponding author
Felbigergasse 3/2/18, A-1140 Wien, Austria
The aim was to record the smoking behaviour of 13- to 16-year-old Austrian pupils and to investigate changes in smoking behaviour following amendments of legislation and gender-specific differences. The survey took place in Vienna, Lower Austria, Burgenland, Styria and Carinthia and was conducted at eight different school types. The data was collected by means of a questionnaire in a group setting at the beginning of a school lesson. The completion of the questionnaire was anonymous. 95,1% of the returned questionnaires could be used for this study, yielding data from a total of 1029 young people for analysis. 38.4% of the participants stated that they had at least once consumed tobacco or related products, with girls having tried them more often (41,6%) than boys (34,9%) (p = .028). At the time of the study, 3,3% used tobacco daily and 4,6% several times a week; thus 7,9% smoke regularly. Although friends or family are the most popular type of acquisition for girls and boys, girls buy their tobacco products from vending machines (11,6%) much more frequently than boys (6,0%) (p = .014) and prefer normal cigarettes (p < .001). The results of this study show that while the number of adolescents who smoke daily is decreasing, the number of occasional smokers is increasing. Already 38,4% of the 13 to 16-year olds have had some experience consuming tobacco. Austria must take the measures recommended by the WHO to reduce the smoking prevalence and protect minors from the health damage caused by tobacco smoke.
Jan 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-20-3170
Nagaraj NitashaCorresponding author
Research Scientist, The George Washington University, Milken Institute School of Public Health, Department of Prevention and Community Health, 950 New Hampshire Ave, NW, 3rd Floor, Washington
Rates of gender-based violence remain high during college in India, a time of adolescent malleability where gender norms, gender perspectives, and responses to violence are open to change. Few gender-based violence interventions focus on college students and even fewer on bystander intervention as a preventative approach - a concept novel to India. This cross-sectional study reached 603 college students in India to examine current gender norms and perspectives, bystander intervention behaviours, and discussion of gender-based violence on campuses. Statistically significant differences were found between male and female college students in all scenarios of bystander intervention response and frequency of discussion of gender-based violence. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed significant differences in those who had never seen violence or had a positive bystander intervention response, compared to those who responded negatively. Given the findings, targeting college students appears a promising approach to change the narrative of gender-based violence and norms in India.
Sep 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-19-2950
I Williams TimCorresponding author
Institute of Education, University of Reading and Priors Court Foundation
Background Children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) often have difficulties settling to sleep and maintaining asleep through the night. Sleep difficulties are linked to challenging behaviour so understanding the causes of these difficulties is vital. Possible explanations are: (1) that irregular innate cycles lead to difficulties maintaining/initiating sleep at the appropriate times; (2) that children with ASD fail to learn from the contingencies that teach neurotypical children to initiate and maintain sleep. If the cycles are innate then small externally imposed changes in routine will not affect the sleep cycle. Methods The sleep records of 46 children with autism and moderate to profound intellectual impairments attending a residential school were examined to identify the effects of spring time change and weekend leave on 1) the times children went to sleep, 2) the length of their sleep and 3) the number of sleep disruptions. Manual staff recordings of the children’s sleep were conducted and data for these variables were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance. Results A later sleep time was found in children regarding their sleep onset on Sunday after the time change (average onset was 9:57 p.m. ((s.e. = 8.49 minutes) versus 10:17 p.m. (s.e. = 8.19 minutes), with analysis of variance of sleep onset time showing a significant effect (F (3,41) = 5.02, p = 0.005). However, only two out of three comparison groups showed statistically significant effects (March 23rd versus March 30th mean difference = 0.39, p = 0.003; March 30th April 13th mean difference = 0.36, p = 0.03). No statistical difference was found between March 30th versus April 6th or other sleep parameters in any groups (i.e., sleep duration or night time awakenings). Similarly, no change in any sleep parameters (i.e., sleep onset or awakenings) were found when Sundays sleep parameters were compared to Mondays and/or Tuesdays. Conclusions In this small pilot study, small changes of day/night cycles appear to have few effects on the sleep patterns of children with ASD attending a residential school. While no significant sleep pattern change was found in this population due to change of clock times or weekend visits, larger epidemiological studies addressing other unexamined variables to better delineate changes in ASD are needed.
Jul 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-19-2721
Habulembe Mugode RaiderCorresponding author
National Food and Nutrition Commission, Lusaka, Zambia
Introduction In the past several decades, Zambia has suffered high levels of under nutrition particularly stunting among children below 5 years of age. Although appropriate complementary feeding practices are reported to reduce child deaths by 6%, they have not received the adequate attention from programme officers and caregivers in terms of implementation. Objectives The objective was to investigate issues surrounding the common complementary feeding practices practised by caregivers of children below five years in health facilities and areas where high rates of malnutrition admission come from. Design A cross sectional research using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study used mostly proportions based mostly on global indicators on complementary feeding. Qualitative data was also analysed according to themes of global complementary feeding indicators Setting The study was conducted in five hospitals, namely Arthur Davison, Solwezi Central, Kabwe and Livingstone General, and University Teaching Hospital. Subjects The target populations were mothers whose children were admitted for malnutrition and those with children 0-59 months living in communities with the highest number of malnourished cases admitted to selected hospitals Results About45.2% (190) of caregivers introduced liquids before six months of age and 7.6% (32) after 6 months attributing child thirst, medication and advice from health worker as the main reasons. Slightly above half (54.2% of 224) of mothers/caregivers used cups to feed their babies. The use of feeding bottles was still common (8.2% of 34). Responsibility to feed the child is mostly left to the mother (86.4%, 362). In addition, children were being feed about 2.67 (SD 0-72) per day. Conclusions Child feeding practices were still poor. This contributes to poor child growth and health. More interventions should be planned to improve child care behaviour.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2637-6075.jpae-19-2779
Chibueze Izah SylvesterCorresponding author
Department of Biological Sciences, Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria.
This study evaluated the behavioural response and toxicity of paraquat dichloride to fingerlings of Clariasgariepinus. The fishes were acclimatized for 14 days and exposed to sublethal concentration of 0.00 ppm, 16.56 ppm, 22.08 ppm, 27.60 ppm, 33.12 ppm and 38.64 ppm. A 24 hours’ renewal bioassay was adopted in this study. Results showed that the fishes exhibited change in swimming, opercular movement, body pigmentation, surfacing and air gulping. Mortality rate increased significantly at p<0.05 as the concentration of the toxicant increased as well as the exposure period. LC50 values at 24, 48, 72 and 96 were 59.95, 47.59, 38.12 and 26.18ppm, respectively. Based on the results, Paraquat dichloride users need to discard the remains of empty cans properly to avoid contamination. Also there is need to exercise caution when using paraquat dichloride based herbicides in agricultural fields close to surface water resources.
Apr 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2578-8590.ipj-19-2772
Crespi FrancescoCorresponding author
Biology, CSK, Verona, Italy
Nociceptin/orphanin-FQ (NOCI) together with its receptor NOP are widely expressed in cortical and subcortical motor areas and it is known that NOCI acts as an anxiolytic attenuating the behavioral inhibition of animals acutely exposed to stressful/anxiogenic conditions. Influence of NOCI upon the dopaminergic system has been observed in the ventral tegmental area and in the nucleus accumbens as well as an inhibitory action of NOCI is described upon serotoninergic mechanisms at cells and terminal levels. In particular, it is known that serotoninergic fibers from the raphe system project to the substancia nigra (SN) and that this modulation is behaviourally relevant. In the present work, the effect of exogenous NOCI injected into the SN upon DA and 5-HT levels have been analyzed by means of differential pulse voltammetry and nafion-carbon fiber microelectrodes. Electrophysiological monitoring of multicell activity was concomitantly performed with the same microsensor. It appeared that both levels of these biogenic amines were specularly altered, with possibly a driving influence of the DA activity upon the serotoninergic function(s).
Jan 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-18-2272
López M.T IglesiasCorresponding author
Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Faculty of Health Sciences, Spain
We discuss different aspects of the Mediterranean diet, including the historical, anthropological and cultural. The different foods that are characteristic of the Mediterranean diet are used to create all kinds of recipes, which are valued in gastronomic terms and are also highly nutritional. Bread, wine and extra virgin olive oil have been symbols of civilisation and prosperity for the peoples of the Mediterranean for thousands of years. The key elements of the Mediterranean diet are variety, moderation and the predominance of vegetables over food sourced from animals. These are complemented by a philosophy of life that values personal relationships, the pursuit of happiness and physical activity. A colourful cuisine has developed around the Mediterranean, which is rich and aromatic and which might be said to live in harmony with nature. The Mediterranean diet is about sharing, enjoying conversation around the table, and relaxing after the meal with a siesta. With the globalisation of food, the chronobiological rhythm of food intake has become skewed, and food industrialisation has led to the homogenisation of eating behaviours. The great chefs of today are artists, bold and dazzlingly creative, masters of harmony and subtlety, arousing hedonistic pleasures with this new form of artistic expression.
Nov 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2575-1212.jvhc-18-2447
Ahmed Elmetwally MohammedCorresponding author
Department of Theriogenology, Veterinary Medicine Faculty, Mansoura University, Mansoura 35516, Egypt
Following parturition in the cow, there is a significant period of sexual quiescence of variable length. This period of reproductive quiescence was found to be longer in suckling or intensively milked animals.This acyclic period is generally considered as the postpartum anoestrous period. The postpartum period constitutes an important period in the reproductive life of dairy cows because of its enormous influence upon subsequent fertility. The entire postpartum period, puerperium, is defined as the period from parturition until the genital organs return to its normal physiological and histological condition, as in normal non-gravid state. They added that any extension of the puerperium in cows might have a detrimental effect on the reproductive performance of the individual animal. Thus, the main determinant of this period is essentially dependent on the resumption of normal ovarian cycles, the manifestation of estrus behaviour and conception following insemination.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-690X.jfm-18-2252
Cherif LeilaCorresponding author
Hedi Chaker Hospital, Child and adolescent psychiatry Department, Avenue Majida Boulila, 3029 Sfax, Tunisie.
Background: Feeding problems are common in autism. Parents are frequently worried about the health status of their children, which may be threatened by some consequent nutritional deficiencies. Despite this, feeding behaviours remain little explored by clinicians working with children with autism spectrum disorders and researches are lacking especially in Tunisia. Aims: To evaluate the frequency and the types of feeding problems in children with autism spectrum disorders. Settings and Design: A comparison was made between 57 children with autism spectrum disorders and 57 control groups regarding the feeding problems. Parents completed the children’s eating behavior inventory (CEBI). Autism severity is evaluated using the Childhood Autism Rating Scale. The SPSS statistical package, version 20.0 was used. Results: According to the CEBI, children with autism spectrum disorders showed more feeding problems than the control group (82.4% versus 56.1%, p=0.002). In fact, the parents of these children observed more pica habits on their children compared to the control group (p=0.000). They also observed more selectivity for starchy foods compared to the control group (p=0.000). The more the autistic symptoms were severe, the more children exhibited feeding problems (p=0.02). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that feeding problems are more common in children with autism. Clinical implications trigger the need for clinicians to provide the necessary assessment and treatment.
Aug 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-18-2223
Jnr. John Elvis HaganCorresponding author
Neurocognition and Action - Biomechanics"- Research Group, Faculty of Psychology and Sport Sciences, Bielefeld University, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
Marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents is major public and mental health concern in Ghana and other developing countries, with the rate of usage soaring high among school going adolescents. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of marijuana utilization among selected Junior High School (JHS) students in the Central Region of Ghana and explore the relative impact of psychosocial factors accounting for its usage. Using a descriptive cross-sectional survey design with the Global School Based Survey GSHS questionnaire, a sample of 1400 school going adolescents students were drawn using multistage sampling procedure. Frequencies, percentages and binary logistic regression results indicated marijuana utilization prevalence of 9% (n = 122). Statistically, gender (OR = 0.52, 95% CI= 0.35 - .765, p = 0.001), religious affiliation (OR = 1.76, 95% CI = 1.0 - 2.95, p = 0.034), socioeconomic background (OR = 0.52, 95% CI = 0.33 - 1.23, p = 0.004) and geographical location (OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.31 - .886, p = 0.016) significantly predicted marijuana utilization among school aged adolescents. No statistically significant variations were found in the odds of students’ marijuana usage for age (OR = 1.15, 95% CI = 0.69 - 1.88, p = 0.590), parental communication (OR = 0.83, 95% CI = 0.56 - 1.23, p = 0.348) and academic performance (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 0.66 -1.80, p = 0.744). Findings suggest that school based research should reflect and perhaps replicate existing prevalence, patterns of marijuana and other drug use through multiple school surveys nationwide. This pathway may provide useful information towards the design, evaluation and implementation of drug prevention cognitive-behavioural interventions and the development of stringent drug regulative standards.
Jun 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-4602.jes-18-2128
I. Granovitch AndreyCorresponding author
Department of Invertebrate Zoology, Faculty of Biology, St. Petersburg State University
Natural selection is a buzzword used to describe the main driving force of evolution. Its creative role is believed to be based on: a) an unlimited variety of organisms caused by hereditary variation and b) a direct connection between hereditary changes and their phenotypic expression. These are the two requirements that can lead to the genetically based changing modalities of characters through “iterations” of natural selection in the series of successive generations. Are these two requirements fulfilled in the nature, however? The present study focuses on the analysis of these two “foundation stones” of natural selection. Firstly, hereditary variation is shown to be essentially non-homogenous. New hereditary characteristics of individuals fall onto a narrow “strip of land” in the sea of potential possibilities. Secondly, the consequences of changes in the genotype of an organism are involved into a system of hierarchical multiple compensation, from the molecular to the biocenotic level. In a way, the signal of hereditary change passes through a series of “system filters” at epigenetic, ontogenetic, physiological, behavioural, populational and biocenotic level. Each filter is represented by multiple feedbacks maintaining the integrity of systems at each level and at all the hierarchical levels taken together. It is in these “system filters” the adaptive nature of characters is formed representing the every individual as a subject to the Law of Multilevel Self-Organization. The emerging understanding of this provides a strong reason to change the evolutionary paradigm from the mainly selectogenetic to the mainly orthogenetic one.
Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2640-6403.jtrr-17-1840
Rogina AnamarijaCorresponding author
Faculty of Chemical Engineering and Technology, University of Zagreb
Up till now, chitosan has confirmed its versatile application in skin, cartilage and bone tissue engineering, as well as in drug delivery applications. This study is focused on enzymatic degradation of porous chitosan structures usually designed for mentioned purposes. In vitro degradation was monitored during four weeks of incubation at physiological temperature and in two different media, phosphate buffer saline solution and water. The scaffolds were characterised before and after enzymatic degradation using scanning electron microscopy and infrared spectroscopy with Fourier transformations (FTIR). According to the gravimetric analysis, higher weight loss of chitosan scaffolds was observed in buffered medium with respect to the water. The results implied that the total weight loss obtained in buffer involves physical dissolution of chitosan and lysozyme cleavage of glycoside bond. Importantly, FTIR identification of chitosan scaffolds after enzymatic degradation indicated the absence of lysozyme activity in water, indicating that weight loss is a result of the chitosan dissolution. This finding greatly impacts design of degradation experiments and characterisation of degradation behaviour of chitosan-based materials utilised as implants or drug delivery systems.
Dec 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2766-8630.jrnm-17-1770
Y. Moawad EmadCorresponding author
Independent researcher graduated from department of engineering, Ain Shams University
The aims of this study are to investigate the variation in the mechanical behaviour of the primary cancer from cancer relapse, and measuring the therapeutic resistance acquired by cancer relapse. A431-cultured cells were irradiated for 7 months until 85 Gy. Then, a selected single cell was left to grow as stable A431-R cell line. 106 cells of A431 cells and 106 of A431-R cells suspended in 100 μL of medium were injected into subcutaneous tissues on the right thigh of athymic mice to generate tumor xenografts models of primary cancer (A431-P) and cancer relapse (A431-R). Radiotherapy of a low-dose of 30Gy was applied on xenoimplanted tumors after one week from inoculation. A mock process was performed on untreated groups of mice for controls. Tumor size was monitored starting from inoculation and tumor growth was measured along 42 days. Rates of mitosis and apoptosis and the histologic grade (HG) that characterize the tumor response were determined as described in earlier studies. Alterations induced on tumor HG in the treated models were 100% identical to the energy of the applied doses. The differences in response energy between cancer relapse and primary cancer irrespectively of the treatment (untreated vs. treated) or origin of the cells (A431-P vs. A431-R) in all phases of tumor responses (growth, shrinkage or regrowth) were 100% identical to the total differences in the administered regimens applied on those groups during those phases. Cancer relapse is characterized by a delay in growth before second line therapy for its relatively lower rate of mitosis compared by the primary cancer inducing a corresponding delay in the early detection. The therapeutic resistance of the cancer relapse is equivalent to the energy of the doses which have been delivered in the prior therapies, and requires increasing the administered dose by an amount equivalent to that resistance.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-612X.ijpr-17-1634
Mroczek BożenaCorresponding author
The functioning of medical professionals in their work environment is determined by many factors, among them social competence. The Aim of this Study was toanalyze how social competence is related to behaviors and experiences in the context of burnout syndrome, experienced by physicians, nurses, and paramedics in Poland with regard to sociodemographic factors. Methods. The study was conducted in 2015-2016. It involved 432 medical workers, including 29.7% physicians, 36.96% nurses, and 33.3% paramedics. The median age was 38.00. Over half (38.9%) of those surveyed were employed in hospitals, 6.9% in primary care centers, 18.3% in emergency ambulance service. The Social Competence Questionnaire (SCQ), the Work-Related Behaviour and Experience Patterns - AVEM questionnaire, and a self-developed questionnaire were applied. Results. Symptoms of burnout syndrome (Type B and A) were observed in one-fourth of medical workers. 31.8% of all participants presented Type G (p < 0.0001). Behavior types prevailing in particular groups were as follows: paramedics ― Type G and Type S; physicians ― Type A and Type B, and nurses ― Type B and Type G. The general competence level correlated with Type G (p = 0.05), and I competence correlated negatively with Type B (p = 0.02). Conclusions: The problem of burnout syndrome, diagnosed on the basis of work-related behaviors and experiences, is weighty and requires implementation of holistic therapeutic and prophylactic solutions addressed to healthcare professionals. Competence in intimate and social exposure situations, as well as competence in situations requiring assertiveness significantly protect medical workers against burnout syndrome.
Nov 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-16-1274
James Power JohnCorresponding author
Dr John J. Power The School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast
Ageing whilst an inevitable process in the human being, does not have to be marked by progressive decline and social withdrawal. `Ageism’ can generate a number of negative and at times destructive perspectives, labelling the elderly and possibly encouraging them to reflect the attitudes and behaviour of the label. This discussion paper addresses concerns about the `demographic time-bomb’ in some advanced economies from a sociological and policy perspective; exploring briefly functional, critical and social action theory. The paper concludes by suggesting that social perspective significantly translate to social behaviour and interaction with and by the elderly. Many of the ageist preconceptions are not necessarily supported by research, and that advancing age should be marked by empowerment, participation, choice and more effective social integration or reintegration. Importantly, the ageing process and perspectives on ageing need to be addressed, both politically and structurally within societies.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-8572.joa-15-816
Selim Yıldırım YavuzCorresponding author
Background: Healthcare policies play an important role in the change of patient behaviours. Objective: Our objective with this study is to examine the patient behaviours and attitudes that have emerged following the changes in healthcare practices in Turkey. Study Design: prospective cross-sectional clinical inventory study Setting: Tertiary referral center Methods: This study was carried out in Istanbul. The study was conducted on patients who were operated at the ENT clinics. 413 patients from the Bezmialem Vakıf University, Hospital and 361 patients from the Marmara University Hospital were included in the study. Results: 320 of the patients included in the study were female with an average age of 38.12. The patients presented to 2.85 different hospitals before undergoing surgery, they were examined by 3.02 different ENT specialists before undergoing surgery and it took the patients 218.40 days to decide that they would undergo surgery. The period of time that elapsed before an appointment was scheduled for patients who decided to undergo surgery was 58.43 days. Conclusion: Considering that it is a necessity to have the opinion from a second physician for the patients to be operated, what should be the approach towards the patients who would like the opinions of a third and a fourth physician? Such patient behaviour is a pattern that has emerged on account of healthcare system changes.
Feb 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-15-828
E.E Enwereji,Corresponding author
College of Medicine, Abia State University, Uturu, Nigeria
Introduction Working with people who are HIV positive is a herculean task and relevant theories to assist them medically, psychologically, economically, socially and otherwise are necessary. People who are living positively with HIV and AIDS are usually ridiculed, discriminated against, rejected and isolated. Using theories to work with them will help to cushion the negative impacts of HIV and AIDS, especially stigma which has been identified as a major barrier to health care and quality of life in illness management. The fundamental human rights of people living positively with HIV and AIDS should be protected since majority of such rights are usually trampled upon. The review aimed at discussing the potential benefits of using theories to assist people living positively with HIV and AIDS to cope with their various and varying situations in life. Materials and Method: Information for this study was collected by extensive review of recent literature on theories for assisting people living positively with HIV and AIDS. The paper reviews theories that influence long-term behaviour change among people living positively with HIV and AIDS. It assesses the need for using these theories to improve HIV and AIDS intervention in developing countries including Nigeria. In this study, eleven behaviour theories were reviewed. Result It was noted that some of the theories promoted adherence as well as helped to explain the benefits of adherence to HIV and AIDS medication. Also a good number of the theories assisted researchers in designing effective intervention strategies. Conclusion: Further research is needed to determine the effective theories that will increase adherence to long-term treatment regimens of HIV and AIDS. Such theories can be used to alleviate the potential burnout of Caregivers and people living positively with HIV and AIDS who travel long distances for diagnostic procedures and work long hours without adequate remuneration, support and supervision.
Dec 2015 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-14-592
Steele AnnCorresponding author
Psychosis Research Unit, Rico House, Harrop House, Bury New Road, Prestwich, M25 3BL, United Kingdom.
Insomnia is highly prevalent and has severe negative consequences. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an evidence-based treatment that is usually delivered individually. Given the high prevalence, accessible one-day CBT-I workshops (each for up to 30 people) were developed to be run in the community for the general public 1. These CBT-I workshops have been found to reduce levels of insomnia 23 and are now run on a routine basis. As yet, little is known about the impact of factors such as co-morbid depression or anxiety, or receipt of previous treatment, on the effectiveness of the CBT-I workshop. This study aimed to evaluate the accessibility and clinical effectiveness of a series of nine one-day CBT-I workshops (n=120) run in routine practice and to explore the impact of factors including co-morbid depression or anxiety and receipt of previous treatment, on the effectiveness of the CBT-I workshops. The CBT-I workshops were found to be effective at reducing insomnia at one-month follow-up and broadly accessible across a wide group of people in the community. In addition, significant reductions in depression and anxiety were found and the severity of depression or anxiety at baseline did not interfere with the effectiveness of the workshop. People with no previous experience of counselling or psychological therapy showed greater reduction of insomnia symptoms. It is concluded that the CBT-I workshop is an accessible and effective treatment for insomnia across a range of clinical severity and complexity. Further benefits include reductions in both depression and anxiety.
Feb 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2328-0182.japst-13-206
C. García-Rodríguez J.Corresponding author
Life Sciences and Nanosecurity, Scientific Advisor’s Office.
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of cremophor RH-40 and polysorbate 80 with hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC) F4M on the development of formulations of intranasal erythropoietin with low sialic acid content (Neuro-EPO) as a neuroprotective agent. Parameters such as pH, osmolality, apparent viscosity, and protein concentration were controlled for minimizing the differences between formulations. All Neuro-EPO formulations showed similar behaviour in the physicochemistry quality control. However significant differences between formulations were observed in the permanent unilateral ischemia model. The formulations and the vehicles containing cremophor RH-40 showed higher neurotoxicity levels than those containing polysorbate 80 as a nonionic surfactant. Formulations containing HPMC F4M at 0.6% as a bioadhesive polymer showed higher levels of survival and better neurological status than those without the polymer. The formulations with polysorbate 80 and HPMC F4M showed a higher index of survival, smaller incidence of clinical signs of stroke, and similar behavior in the learning and the memory to the false injured animals used as control. These findings suggest that the intranasal pathway constitutes a safe and alternative route of access of the Neuro-EPO to the brain.
Nov 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-200
Sangrar RuheenaCorresponding author
Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy - University of Toronto
Various sporting activities are being used as vehicles for HIV/AIDS education and prevention within the field of sport-for-development (SFD). Kicking AIDS Out! is one SFD program that aims to promote protective attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS amongst youth. This study explored organizers’ perspectives of the use of sporting activities in the Kicking AIDS Out! program in Trinidad and Tobago. Qualitative case study methodology was used to examine the case. Data was generated through semi-structured interviews with seven organizers who were Kicking AIDS Out! staff or volunteer members. Thematic analysis guided data analysis. Generated themes include: Sport to Draw, There’s Something for Everyone, the Emotional Wow, and Beyond Sports. These themes illuminate the idea that sport captivates and attracts youth, and illustrate the use of sport activities to promote engagement in the program as they are tailored to the skills and interests of youth. Sport activities may challenge values and beliefs regarding HIV/AIDS and may promote engagement in new roles, such as those as advocate or caregiver for individuals with HIV/AIDS, and engagement in healthy lifestyle behaviours, such as safe sexual encounters. The findings of this study offer an opportunity for HIV/AIDS prevention programs to consider their use of sporting activities in a manner that achieves these SFD characteristics.
Nov 2013 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-13-266
Chandra Sadhukhan ProvashCorresponding author
I. C. M. R. Virus Unit Kolkata, I.D and B.G Hospital Campus, GB-4 (East Wing), 1st Floor, 57, Dr. Suresh Chandra Banerjee Road, Beliaghata, Kolkata-700010
Objective: Toanalyze the socio-economic pattern amongst HIV patients in eastern and north-eastern India as measured by different parameters such as educational status, wealth, marital status, sexual behaviour. Methods: This study involved 650 HIV seropositive individuals enrolled in a HIV Apex Clinic in a tertiary care hospital in Kolkata, India during 2006 to 2011. Socio-demographic data were obtained while keeping the names of HIV seropositive individual’s names confidential. HIV testing was done according to the guidelines of NACO, India. Diagnoses of different common opportunistic infections were also done. Results: Out of the 650 individuals, 53% reported to have presenting symptoms of low grade fever, 21% had weight loss, general weakness and malaise. 13% reported to have frequent skin rashes, 13% ported to severe seizures and lack of coordination. 41.07 % of them had an income ranging from Rs1000 - 1500 per month. These individuals mainly were daily workers, labourers who work in per day income basis. 44.13% (89 out of 202) of the females were married at a young age, 65 (32.17%) were widowed whose husbands succumbed to HIV. Assessment of the educational qualifications reveals that those individuals affected reveals that 65% of the males received education till standard VIII, 25% received elementary education till standard IV. Conclusion: The study highlights the sectors of the socio-economic class who need more attention to tackle the HIV burden. The analysis of the socio-economic status reveals the low income and lack of education are main contributing factors towards the spread of this disease in this region.
Dec 2012 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-12-68
Tumwine ChristopherCorresponding author
Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, P.O. Box 22418, Kampala-Uganda
New research suggests that people living with HIV have the potential to be strong advocates for HIV prevention by passing on HIV prevention messages within their social networks. However, there is a paucity of research into the nature and prevalence of HIV prevention behaviours engaged in by HIV clients, and the psychosocial correlates of such advocacy, which are the goals of this analysis. We examined engagement in HIV prevention advocacy among 602 new HIV clients at two clinics in Uganda. Eighty nine percent reported encouraging others to get tested for HIV, 79% told people they know to use condoms when they have sex, and 61% reported discussing HIV more generally with friends and family. A client was classified as fully engaged in HIV prevention advocacy if they reported engaging in all three of the measured HIV prevention advocacy behaviors. In the bivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (p<0.001), higher levels of HIV disclosure to friends (p<0.001), greater hopefulness (p<0.001), and lower levels of depression (p<0.001) and internalized HIV stigma (p<0.001) were associated with full engagement in HIV prevention advocacy. In the multivariate analysis, being from the rural study site (OR=5.461, 95% CI=3.11-9.61), lower levels of internalized HIV stigma (OR=0.524, 95% CI=0.39-0.70) and higher levels of HIV status disclosure to friends (OR=2.040, 95% CI=1.23-3.38) remained significantly associated with full engagement in prevention advocacy. These data suggest that psychosocial adjustment and functioning may play a key role in empowering HIV clients to be advocates for prevention.