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May 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5915.jafs-20-3354
Donald L. BureshCorresponding author
The question that this paper answer is whether the Illinois Reporter’s Privilege should protect an online blogger. The definitions of the terms “reporter,” “news medium,” and “source” quoted from 735 ILCS 5/8-902, followed by several examples. Second, a brief history of journalism is presented, where it is demonstrated that for hundreds of years, journalists and publishers alike engaged in their profession with little formal training, but rather with a sincere desire to convey the facts and the truth to their peers. Second, the essay outlines how Illinois and federal courts have employed the privilege in case law. In answering the question, the work examines whether WikiLeaks qualifies under the Illinois Reporter’s Privilege. The position taken is that the answer is yes. The idea is that if WikiLeaks qualifies under the privilege, then other online blogs also qualify. The opinion of the author is that the law is sufficient as it stands. There is no need to change its wording. Finally, some loose ends are discussed before reiterating the conclusion that the Illinois Reporters’ should not be changed.
Dec 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2694-1198.jge-19-3079
Volobuev A.N.Corresponding author
Samara State Medical University, Department of Medical Physics, Samara, Russia
The problem of natural selection against recessive homozygotes in a population is investigated. It is shown that natural selection of mutant alleles linked with the Х-chromosome in a population at women is described by the nonlinear differential equation of the third order. The order of the differential equation characterizes a power of selection. It is marked that the high order of the differential equation of natural selection allows level all mutational processes in Earth populations.
Jan 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5526.jmid-17-1891
Attanasio RobertoCorresponding author
Endocrinology, Galeazzi Institute IRCCS, Milan, Italy
Background Conventional tools for medical education are burdened by many drawbacks. Textbooks become rapidly outdated, meeting attendance is expensive, and results reported in journals are not easily suitable for clinical practice. Uptodate and Endotext are excellent online tools, but they have been developed for a clinical context far different from that of our country. Methodology Italian Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AME) charged a task force aiming to develop an educational tool specifically tailored for Italian clinical endocrinologists. Required characteristics were clinical approach, modularity, continuous updating, full online availability (even by mobile devices), open sections and sections for registered members only, opportunity for individualization, indexing and search engine to facilitate browsing. Starting from an open-source platform, Joomla, several changes were implemented. Results Three editors, 2 central editorial secretaries, 30 section coordinators and over 350 authors have been involved in the writing of 21 different sections covering all fields of endocrine and metabolic diseases. The access to Endowiki is free for AME members and is fully open in sections for patients. All readers are requested to serve as referee, pointing to mistakes and need for revision. The system is attended daily by a mean of 250 individuals. Conclusions Endowiki stands alone as an opportunity for medical education in Italy. The big challenges will be the continuous updating and the link to the national certified system for CME.
Jun 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-15-820
M Smith DebbieCorresponding author
Health Psychology Lecturer, BSc (Hons), MSc, PhD, CPsychol. AFBPsS, University of Manchester.
Although structured taught aquatic baby programmes (STABPs) are one of the earliest forms of physical activity, the possible impacts of structured taught aquatic baby programmes are unknown. This study aims to understand the perceived impact that attending STABPs has on parents/carers, their baby/child and their family. An online survey was completed by 2854 parents/carers. It was advertised via numerous online advertisements. Of the respondents, 89% had attended STABPs. ‘Attendees’ were significantly older and were less likely to live in a more deprived area compared to ‘non-attendees’. STABPs are perceived to be beneficial in terms of water safety, confidence, benefits to parent-child relationships and interaction with other children but cost affects attendance. The evidence-base regarding the benefits of STABPs should be established to further understand their impact on parents/carers and babies. Further research should focus on understanding barriers to attendance and ways to facilitate attendance. The need to understand the ‘key ingredients’ of structured taught aquatic baby programmes was highlighted.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2324-7339.jcrhap-25-5715
Couture LucyCorresponding author
Recruitment for research studies focused on communicable diseases such as HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has historically been challenging, particularly among populations who have been underrepresented in media messaging, yet maintain a significant vulnerability to new HIV cases, like Black women. This study examines the recruitment strategies utilized in Aim 2 of pilot study at the University of Texas Health Science Center (UTHealth) in Houston, Texas that was funded by the Ujima Mentoring Program to develop, implement, and evaluate a video log (vlog)-based intervention. The overarching goal of the pilot study was to promote the uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) among cisgender Black women in Harris County, Texas. Aim 2 involved the creation of a culturally relevant vlog for use in Aim 3, which sought to educate and motivate participants to consider PrEP as an HIV prevention strategy. With the growing role of digital platforms in public health outreach, social media was employed alongside traditional recruitment methods such as flyers and word-of-mouth referrals. Despite an expanded online reach, engagement remained low, and participation rates did not increase proportionally to the number of individuals who viewed recruitment materials. The reluctance to participate was largely attributed to stigma surrounding HIV and concerns about being publicly associated with an HIV prevention study based on participants feedback to the research team. Even the availability of research incentives to encourage participation did not significantly improve recruitment accrual goals, particularly among healthcare providers who experienced limitations with eligibility due to institutional policies. This study underscores the need to better understand the social and cultural barriers that prevent Black women and healthcare providers from engaging in HIV prevention research. While digital recruitment strategies can enhance visibility to a larger audience, they must be supported with trust-building efforts, community partnerships, and culturally competent messaging to encourage meaningful participation. These findings point to the critical need for multi-faceted recruitment strategies that go beyond social media campaigns and actively build trust within communities, ensuring that HIV prevention research and interventions are both accessible and culturally resonant.
Dec 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2381-862X.jwrh-25-5447
J. Factoriza OliviaCorresponding author
Objective This study aimed to explore the respondents’ reproductive health profiles, examining the physiological and psychosocial perimenopausal symptoms affecting productivity, and identifying occupational needs. It also determined the relationship between menopausal symptoms and the productivity and occupational needs of peri-menopausal women. Methodology A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, surveying 50 women over 40 years old with a validated four-point Likert scale instrument. The instrument undergone content validation, reliability test, and ethical approval. Survey was administered personally and online using purposive sampling. Statistical treatments included weighted mean, F-test, T-test, Pearson r correlation, and ranking. Key results The majority of participants had their first menstruation between 11 to 15 years old and experienced regular menstrual cycles. Most had one child, with an equal number of cesarean and normal deliveries, and reported no pregnancy complications. The study found that participants seldom experienced physiological and psychosocial menopausal symptoms. They agreed on the occupational needs during the perimenopausal period. It was found that physiological symptoms were influenced by factors such as early menarche, cesarean delivery, and pregnancy complications. Additionally, psychosocial symptoms varied based on menstrual status, the number of children, and pregnancy complications, with those experiencing earlier menstruation or complications reporting more intense symptoms. The study revealed a significant relationship between both physiological and psychosocial perimenopausal symptoms, which negatively impacted productivity and increased occupational needs. Women with higher menopausal symptoms expressed a greater need for workplace policies that support perimenopausal women, highlighting the need for tailored workplace interventions for this demographic. Future Direction The study recommends including pap smears and mammograms in annual exams for peri-menopausal women, offering awareness seminars on managing perimenopausal symptoms to reduce workplace disruptions, and suggests future research exploring additional variables affecting perimenopausal women’s health and productivity
Jul 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-25-5580
Ina Grant Sagnia PhebianCorresponding author
Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) is a school-based intervention aimed at correcting misinformation surrounding sexual education among youth, often influenced by social media, peer groups and misleading online content. In The Gambia, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has developed and introduced a national framework to integrate CSE from Grade 4 (primary school level) to Grade 12 (senior secondary school level). This study explores the perceptions and recommendations of 50 secondary school teachers from 43 public and private schools in Region 1 on the implementation of CSE in schools. While some teachers expressed concerns that CSE might promote perverted and lewd early sexual behavior, others saw it as essential for increased awareness and youth well-being. Cultural, religious, and societal norms pose significant implementation barriers towards the implementation of CSE in schools. Teachers’ insights are vital for successful CSE delivery and educational strategy improvements.
Jun 2025 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-25-5560
Bai YeonCorresponding author
The benefits of exclusive breastfeeding are well-known. Despite the legislative and systemic efforts to promote breastfeeding in South Korea, the nation’s current rate of exclusive breastfeeding (5.2%) during the infant’s first six months is alarming. Under the framework of the theory of planned behavior (TPB), this study elicited the beliefs around exclusive breastfeeding commonly held by low-income women participating in NutriPlus, the community nutrition program. Using a convenient sampling method, online open-ended surveys were conducted with two program clinics in Seoul during spring of 2024. The survey included questions about their demography and beliefs regarding indirect theoretical constructs of the exclusive breastfeeding behavior by listing top three things that came to their mind. A total of 120 NutriPlus clients participated in this survey. Though 53.1% of postpartum women were breastfeeding, only 28.1% were breastfeeding exclusively. Based on most frequently mentioned beliefs, we classified them to behavioral, normative, and control beliefs under TPB. Modal behavioral beliefs were healthy babies (n=87) and mother-baby bonding (n=71) and feeding issues (n=96) and inconvenience resulting from the act of breastfeeding (n=86). Family members seemed to shape both positive (n=122) and negative (n=37) normative beliefs. The presence of support (n=84) mattered to facilitate breastfeeding, while feeding issues (n=98) played as barriers. Promotion efforts need to emphasize breastfeeding knowledge and skill building and include family members and society at large to improve the awareness and transform barriers of breastfeeding to facilitators.
Oct 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2574-4518.jsdr-24-5287
Hast MichaelCorresponding author
Background/Aim This study aimed to examine the relationship between loneliness and bedtime procrastination in young adults in Germany, offering critical insights into the development and maintenance of both conditions. Specifically, it sought to test a new model that connects these two psychological constructs. Materials and Methods A quantitative online survey was conducted with 500 young adults (Mage = 23.3, 83.6% female). Loneliness was assessed using the UCLA Loneliness Scale, while bedtime procrastination was measured using the Bedtime Procrastination Scale. Results The results show a significant positive correlation between loneliness and bedtime procrastination in young adults. Sleep quality was also found to significantly correlate positively with loneliness as well as with bedtime procrastination. Conclusion The findings provide a crucial framework for understanding the relationship between the two psychological constructs of loneliness and bedtime procrastination. Implications for possible future interventions are discussed.
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.
Jul 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2577-2279.ijha-24-5150
H.C DaviesCorresponding author
The instructional techniques in neuroanatomy laboratories continue to evolve to incorporate online interactive resources to improve student experience and outcomes. This study aims to design an “all in one”Virtual Interactive Brain Atlas (VIBA) that provides students with an educational resource that will improve their knowledge of neuroanatomy while in the brain lab and provide them with lab resources they can self-study and self-test. Coronal, midsagittal, whole brain, and horizontal brain slices were used to create detailed descriptions, interactive features, and quiz assessments to create VIBA. Upper level undergraduate and optometry students taking a neuroanatomy one-semester course were provided with VIBA for use during the semester. A paper survey was distributed after completing the course to determine student perception. No significant difference was indicated between the student groups regarding their self-reported understanding prior to the brain lab (p= 0.194) and after the brain lab (p= 0.308). There was a significant difference between the student populations when stating that they strongly agreed that the online brain atlas improved their understanding of neuroanatomy (p= 0.032) and that the VIBA tool was easy to navigate (p=0.048). There was a significant difference between the two student groups that strongly agreed that the online brain atlas quality was sufficient (p= 0.015). This online interactive brain atlas was created in a time-efficient manner from readily available models and was well received by experienced neuroanatomy faculty and students.
May 2024
Almekhlafi KaylaCorresponding author
This exploratory study investigates factors and consequences of underdiagnoses or late diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in females favoring males in the referral, diagnosis, and treatment processes resulting in gender disparities. A literature review in PubMed, PsychINFO, PsychArticles, and PsychiatryOnline from 2010 to 2023 underscores significant implications of delayed ADHD diagnosis in females, hindering timely access, support, and interventions during critical developmental years. Factors associated with underdiagnosis of ADHD among girls include gender differences in symptomology presentation, comorbidity, and gender bias among parents, teachers, and healthcare providers. We highlight the role of ethnicity and cultural factors. This bias prevents girls from receiving necessary ADHD support and treatment, impacting their health, social, and economic outcomes into adulthood. We summarize strategies to urgently address gaps in ADHD research and practice. Raising awareness among communities, healthcare providers, educators, and parents is vital to alleviate these gender disparities. By illuminating factors contributing to delayed diagnoses, the study informs policymakers and stakeholders, facilitating targeted interventions to improve early detection and treatment outcomes for females with ADHD.
Feb 2024 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-4538.jphi-24-4928
Theofilou ParaskeviCorresponding author
The present study focuses on the investigation of fatigue, social support and quality of life that characterizes social workers. Furthermore, the study aims to highlight the effect of demographic and occupational characteristics on the above factors. A total of 400 social workers with an average age of 39.05 years took part in the research. Most were women, single, residents of cities of more than 100,000, and health care workers. Participants were asked to answer online questionnaires (FAS for fatigue, MSPSS for social support and GHQ-28 for quality of life). From the analysis of the data, it was found that the level of fatigue of the social workers is at low levels. At the same time, the level of occurrence of negative symptoms is also low, with physical symptoms appearing more often than the rest. Participants receive a high level of support from their environment, and more so from the "significant other" in their life. Finally, it was found that the fatigue, social support and quality of life of social workers is affected by the age of the social workers, the total years of service, gender, marital status, place of residence, employer and position of responsibility.
Aug 2023 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-23-4701
Steiner-Hofbauer VerenaCorresponding author
Young adulthood is a sensitive phase that comes with many developmental tasks. Successful mastery of these challenges is crucial not only for long-term physical and mental health. A positive relationship with one's own body and associated healthy dietary and behavioral patterns are essential building blocks for healthy adolescence and adult life. But being overly concerned with healthy food may lead to decreased quality of life and negative (mental) health outcomes. This study was conducted via a cross-sectional online questionnaire including the Düsseldorfer Orthorexieskala(DOS), the WHO Quality of Life BREF and questions about life style and nutritional habits. We investigated the prevalence of ON and its relationship with different aspects of quality of life and lifestyle factors (sport and nu trtional habits) in a sample of young adults in Austria. No significant difference in the DOS-scores of male and female participants were found and no significant difference between students and non-students. High DOS-scores significantly impair all three domains of QoL. We did not find a significant relationship between high DOS-scores and taking nutritional supplements or being vegan, vegetarian or omnivore. Participants with high DOS-scores spent significantly more hours per week with sport/exercising.
Feb 2022 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-22-4078
Gabriel Olajide ToyeCorresponding author
Department of Ear, Nose and Throat, Afe Babalola University, Ado Ekiti and Federal Teaching Hospital, Ido Ekiti
Background The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impact on healthcare worldwide. Surgeons are at increased occupational risk of contracting COVID-19. The impact of the disease on surgical practice will continue to evolve. We assessed the impact of the disease on surgical practice and training in Nigeria. Method Survey questionnaire was designed, transcribed to Google form and electronically circulated online to surgeons practicing in Nigeria. Surgeons from various subspecialties from the six regions in Nigeria were included. Survey questions pertaining to pre-COVID-19 era surgical practices, impact on current practice and changes occurring in health facilities during this COVID-19 pandemic. Responses were collated and analyzed statistically. Results One hundred and nine (109) surgeons completed the survey, of which 2.8% were women. Majority (68.8%) of the respondents are in the consultant cadre, majority (86.2%) are working in public hospital, 88.1% running their SOPD, 81.7% have isolation wards in their centers, 66.1% have dedicated team for COVID-19 management. Only 48.6% of the frontline health workers have access to personal protective equipment (PPE), and 33.9% had formal training on the use of PPE. Only 11.0% were satisfied with level of preparation of the management. Elective cases were done only in 45% of respondents. 103(94.4 %) confirmed that the numbers of elective cases are less than pre Covid-19 period. Emergency cases were carried out by 93.6% of respondents. Only 1.8% of respondents carried out screening tests for their patients before embarking on emergency surgery. Conclusion COVID-19 has led to reduction in surgical outpatients, significant reduction in elective surgeries in Nigeria. Adequate PPE needs to be provided, there should be guidelines for safety for future. There should be adequate preparation should there be any pandemic in the near future.
Oct 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-21-3977
Shakeel Iqubal S.M.Corresponding author
Department of General Science, Ibn Sina National College for Medical Studies, Al Mahajar Street: 31906, Jeddah 21418, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
In Saudi Arabia most of the individuals give very little attention to issues like health or no priority to medical checkup. This investigation was carried out to measure knowledge, practice of periodic medical checkup in Kingdom of Saudi Arabia people. A cross-sectional investigation was conducted among 1015 participants. A structured interviewer administered an online questionnaire were distribute by social media and whatsApp. We collected data and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Association between categorical variables were explored using bar chart and tables, Level of significance was set at 5%. The main age of the respondents was 21-30 years, 78.4% were females and 64.2% were married. About 42.1% have ever heard of periodic medical check-up , 57% of those who haven’t ever heard of periodic medical checkup and only 21.9% among those who had ever done it had frequent medical check-up and 78.1% didn’t do it. Attempt is required in ensuring that periodic medical check-up is urged. There is a need to study the factors associated with the uptake of medical check-up among the study population and effort should be made by health agencies to educate traders on the various types of medical check-up, their indications and benefits as well as its practice encouraged
Feb 2021 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-21-3720
R. Rapciewicz GeorgeCorresponding author
Jr. D.B.A. Candidate
Because of the ongoing Covid-19 crisis, supply chain management performance seems to be struggling. The purpose of this paper is to examine a variety of critical factors related to the application of contingency theory to determine its feasibility in preventing future supply chain bottlenecks. The study reviewed current online news reports, previous research on contingency theory, as well as strategic and structural contingency theories. This paper also systematically reviewed several global supply chain management and strategic decision-making studies in an effort to promote a new strategy. The findings indicated that the need for mass production of products within the United States, as well as within trading partners, is necessary to prevent additional Covid-19 related supply chain gaps. The paper noted that in many instances, the United States has become dependent on foreign products, where the prevention of future supply chain gaps requires the United States restore its manufacturing prowess.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3671
K. Ceesay EbrimaCorresponding author
University of Gambia, Banjul, Gambia
Assesses the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the social and economic situation in Africa. The data use in this paper was generated from online survey questionnaire, in which the participants were asked about certain questions in which covid-19 affect their social-economic live. The questionnaire was design to help Africa to understand covid-19 impacts. The results reveal that covid-19 affected Africa; 1) 51.6% responded said that coronavirus affect their job search 2) Over the past three months, 47.1 percent of the respondents said their private financial situation remain unchanged 3) 61 percent did not trust the true existing of the Covid-19. 5) According to this online survey administered using Google form, 51.8 percent of the respondents said services sectors are most impacted sector pandemic, follow by industrial sector, 31.3 percent and agriculture is least sector at 8.4 percent. Policy implication is that it has serious impacts on social-economics interactions.
Dec 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3670
K. Ceesay EbrimaCorresponding author
University of Gambia, Banjul, Gambia
Purpose This paper assess the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Education, Staff development and Training in Africa. Online Research Methodology/Approach The data use in this paper was generated from online survey questionnaire, in which the participants were asked about certain questions in which covid-19 affect their social-economic situation. The questionnaire was design to help Africa to understand covid-19 impacts on their social and economic live. Results The results of this study reveal that coronavirus pandemic affected Africa in a number of ways; 1) 52.2 percent of the respondents said they should open school now in Africa, while 47.8 percent fear they should not open schools 2) 81 percent said before educational institution are closed there is public or official announcement that institutions must be closed due to pandemic—may be 3 months, ……,,…,, one week it depends on the severity of how covid-19 is spreading across the regions in Africa, 10.7 percent of the respondent said it may be and only 8.3 percent said it is not official announced.3) 65.4 percent of the respondents said government implemented an education response for continue of learning in Africa while educational institutions are closed 4) 61.5 percent said use of online/digital learning platform is the method for continuity of learning is currently available for children affected by closures of educational institutes provided by government, while 50 percent said television, radio, or podcast broadcast and 17.9 percent said assigning reading and exercises for home study. 5) 45.3 percent out of 100 percent said use of online or digital learning platform are the proportion of children affected by education institution closure. 38.7 percent said the proportion of children affect are the one that concentrate of using television, radio or podcast broadcasts to get academic content. 14.7 percent of the respondents are the proportion of the children affected by educational institute closure if they are assigning reading and exercises for home study. 6) 52.6 percent of the respondents from non-government organization, private schools said use of online or digital learning platform is the method for continuity of learning is currently available for children affected by closures of educational institutes, while 61.5 percent said use of online/digital learning platform is the method for continuity of learning is currently available for children affected by closures of educational institutes provided by government. The same thing government said as well. Similar respondents from government as do the non-government or private schools and 35.9 percent respondent said television, radio and podcast broadcast are method for continuity of learning is currently available for children affected by closures of educational institutes-provided by non-governmental organization, private schools etc, whereas 50 percent of the respondents said assigning reading and exercises for home study is the method for continuity of learning is currently available for children affected by closures of educational institutes-provided by government.7) 48.1 percent of the respondents said for the impact of covid-19 pandemic on staff development and training that their enterprise or organization partially suspended operation due to the pandemic and 34.2 percent of the responded said they completely suspended operation because of coronavirus pandemic and 16.5 percent said no closures on in operation for staff development and training because of pandemic. 8)According to the results of this question of the online survey, 49.3 percent said the challenges their enterprise face in delivery staff training programmes and activities using online learning or offline learning during covid-19 was due to infrastructure issues such the problem associated with internet and the like. The survey of the study also confirmed that 32.9 percent twice said limited digital skills of trainers and cost of staff training was a major setback to train staff in their enterprise or organization or department or establishment while 30.1 percent said it is due to limited digital literacy of users are the main challenges face by their department in order to train staff. Policy Implications The implication of the results from this online survey is that it has serious impacts on education closure and staff development and training. As educations are closed due to covid-19 pandemic, it will affect already problems of human capital that are hampering the development of Africa. Due to covid-19 pandemic, the achievement of sustainable development goals on quality education will be seriously halted. The government and the ministry in Africa should work hand in hand to solve the problems of children affected by schools closure after the pandemic by either additional hours or provide more study hours for schools to catch-up with what happened during the pandemic, the study noted. Originality/value The impact of covid-19 on education, staff development and training.
Nov 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-1537.ijcv-20-3620
Obioma AzuonwuCorresponding author
Department of Medical Laboratory Science, Medical Bacteriology / Virology / Parasitology Unit, Rivers State University, Nkpolu – Oroworukwo, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
COVID-19 remains a global public health emergency till date. It is eminent that the transmission of the disease is subjective to people’s readiness to implement public health preventative strategies and these are often related to knowledge. Proper public knowledge about COVID-19 plus its predisposing factors is critical to effectively manage the increasing public health risks. However, socio-demographics have been implicated to COVID-19 infection risk and management outcome. Thus, this present study examined the influence of knowledge on COVID-19 risk outcome, the contribution of socio-demographics on the risk of COVID-19 and predicted synergistic effects of knowledge and socio-demographics on the risk of COVID-19. All measured was strictly perception amongst African sampled with an online Google form as the primary data source. The Correlation designed used Zr Statistics of Fisher Transformation to determine the differences between the two correlation coefficients of the prediction variables after an initial test using Pearson Product Moment Correlation between COVID-19 risk and Knowledge plus socio-demographic. The hypothesis was tested using Statistical Package for Social Science version 21 and iStat at varying significant levels of 0.05 and 0.01 respectively. Generally, a significant relationship exists between COVID-19 risk and knowledge level but not with composite socio-demographics. However, specific significant relationship (p<0.05) was noticed between COVID-19 risk and age (r=0.220) as well as marital status (r=-0.158). Educational level, location, and sex showed no correlation (p>0.05) with COVID-19 exposure. Also, the proposition of no significant difference between correlation coefficients of socio-demographics and knowledge was proven otherwise (p<0.05). The regression model (R2=0.420 and adjusted R2=0.404, df=2, 336, F-value=27.012. p=0.00) significantly predicted the synergic contributions of knowledge level and socio-demographics to COVID-19 exposure. 40.04% of the COVID-19 risk exposure can be explained by socio-demographics and knowledge about COVID-19. Synergic contribution of knowledge and socio-demographics proved risk prediction to COVID-19. Traditional factor like age should be decidedly considered and attention should be drawn towards good knowledge about COVID-19 especially its signs and symptoms plus transmission.
Aug 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2643-2811.jmbr-20-3465
Mary Henrietta H.Corresponding author
Department of Mathematics, Saveetha Engineering College, Chennai, Tamilnadu -602105, India
This paper considers an EOQ inventory model with varying demand and holding costs. It suggests minimizing the total cost in a fuzzy related environment. The optimal policy for the nonlinear problem is determined by both Lagrangian and Kuhn-tucker methods and compared with varying price-dependent coefficient. All the input parameters related to inventory are fuzzified by using trapezoidal numbers. In the end, a numerical example discussed with sensitivity analysis is done to justify the solution procedure. This paper primarily focuses on the aspect of Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) for variable demand using Lagrangian, Kuhn-Tucker and fuzzy logic analysis. Comparative analysis of there methods are evaluated in this paper and the results showed the efficiency of fuzzy logic over the conventional methods. Here in this research trapezoidal fuzzy numbers are incorporated to study the price dependent coefficients with variable demand and unit purchase cost over variable demand. The results are very close to the crisp output. Sensitivity analysis also done to validate the model.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2691-8862.jvat-20-3306
Abul-Fadl AzzaCorresponding author
Professor of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Benha University
Introduction The Corona virus (CoVID-19) pandemic has hit the most developed countries and has thence spread to inflict other countries around the world. It is the first pandemic that appears in countries not linked to poverty and poor hygiene. Aim To study the relationship between human development and the pattern of the pandemic caused by the CoVID-19 and to identify development indicators that can be useful in monitoring the pandemic. Methods Data collected included confirmed cases of CoVID-19 by country, number of cases that recovered and cases that died and population density per million in this particular country. The data for this information was obtained from the online data on the daily reports on CoVID-19 from the different countries. Data for the Human Development index (HDI) and the ranking for each country were obtained from the most recent United Nations Development of Populations (UNDP) report for 2019. We analyzed data for 166 countries for which the HDI was available for the date of cases reported online on 27th March, 2020 at midnight. Findings There were significant differences by ANOVA for the confirmed cases of CoVID19 cases and total cases per one million population between the countries in the 4 tier group of Human Development. HDI was significantly correlated with confirmed cases, case density and cases that died from CoVID-19 (P<0.01) for all countries but the significance decreased by tier group. Country ranking was inversely correlated with confirmed cases of CoVID-19 (r-0.25 at P=0.001), CoVID-19 cases per million (r-0.4 at P=0.000) and cases that died from CoVID-19 (r-0.2 at P=0.03). Recovery was not inked to HDI or country ranking. The upper HDI tier groups (very high, high and medium) showed significant correlations with total cases per one million population P<0.05, but no correlation was found with confirmed cases or cases that died or recovered from CoVID-19 P>0.05. Conclusions Total cases of CoVID-19 per one million population seems to be a better indicator of the pandemic. The pattern of spread is closely linked to industry.
Apr 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2641-5526.jmid-20-3248
I. Kheder SalahCorresponding author
Faculty of Pharmacy, National University, Khartoum, Sudan
Objective This study conducted to assess health care practitioners’ knowledge and perceptions of hand hygiene among health professional working in clinical settings in Khartoum State - Sudan. with the specific objective of determining the association between their stance on hand hygiene and the general demographic characteristics of these health-care professionals. Methodology This is a cross-sectional study conducted between July and November 2017 using a modified form of WHO questionnaire for knowledge and perception that was included 22 items was sent online to health care workers via social media. The data obtained entered and analyzed by SPSS version 24. Chi-square and test of independence were used as a test of significance. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant for all purposes. Result 437 hospital staff were responded to the questionnaire. (99.3%) was found to have good knowledge. 197(45.2%) had good perception and 239(54.8%) had fair perception. Formal hand hygiene training was found to have no association with knowledge levels of hand hygiene, but the fair perception was higher in the respondents who didn’t receive formal training. Conclusion The present study highlights the hand hygiene knowledge and perception. Most health care workers were found to have good knowledge, and the majority was found to have a fair perception. Formal hand hygiene training courses were found to have no association with knowledge but it may be reflected in practice. The importance of training sessions regarding hand hygiene was noticed in the perception level.
Feb 2020 DOI 10.14302/issn.2692-5915.jafs-20-3204
Mozid AshrafulCorresponding author
Department of Criminology and Police Science, Mawlana Bhashani Science and Technology University, Santosh, Tangail -1902, Bangladesh
Cybercrime is one of the fastest-growing criminal activities in contemporary age. The first recorded cybercrime happened in France in the year 1820. It was not as sophisticated as cybercrime we know in our world today, but, still, that was a crime. Cybercrime has evolved globally as the online platform is progressing. While progress is made in the battle against cybercrime there still remains a wide gap in the consistency of laws across international borders. The main objectives of this study are to explore the nature of cybercrime in developing countries, find out the cyber threats for terrorist activities and explain cybercrime and threats from criminological aspects. This is a descriptive study which is based on secondary data. This study is based on previous researches & studies. this paper discusses the nature of cybercrime in developing countries. It could allow developed countries to understand better the national and international effects of that cyber threats, to determine the conditions of current regional and international agreements, and to help countries create a sound legal framework. And then we notice the impact of cyber threats all over the world. At last, we discuss cybercrime from criminological point of view. Cybercrime is not limited to two neighboring countries and cross-border conflicts; an attempt could be conducted from another world. It is fearful to see cyber wars as the easiest way to carry out sabotaging rather than wars such as cold war, chemical and biological wars, terrorist wars or jihadist attacks. The international legal framework aims by the International Criminal Court to keep offenders accountable for their actions. The government has by far the biggest burden and obstacle in raising knowledge of cybercrime among the people.
May 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2644-0105.jbfb-19-2752
K. Bai YeonCorresponding author
Associate Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
The proportion of mothers in the workforce has increased over the past 40 years. Examination of factors associated with a working/student mother’s milk expression is needed to provide effective lactation support. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of maternal assets in the relationships between the theory constructs, intention, and behavior of breast milk expression. Using a cross-sectional design framed under the theory of planned behavior, all female personnel associated with a higher education institute in northern New Jersey were invited to participate in the online survey, Milk Expression on Campus. Attitude toward breast milk expression, subjective norm, perceived behavioral control, intention, and behavior of breast milk expression on campus as well as maternal assets such as income, education, living status, and campus role were measured. Maternal assets had no moderation role but showed a significant and meaningful mediation effect on the relationship between perceived behavioral control and the intention to express breast milk on campus, with effect size R2=3.59%, 95% CI (-.1061, -.0047). There was no mediation effect of the asset on the relationship between intention and the behavior of breast milk expression, 95% CI (-.0984, .0232). Future breastfeeding support and promotion may direct its attention to provide systematic social and clinical support to enhance working/student maternal assets, e.g. family education, access to lactation services, or peer-based support programs, thereby helping mothers achieve their breastfeeding goals.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2470-5020.jnrt-19-2618
Patel NaiyaCorresponding author
Graduate Research Assistant, Department of Public Health, Long Island University, Brooklyn, New York, United States, PMBA candidate, MPH, BDS.
Objective Testing a new drug, treatment, and medical device clinically is critically important before prescribing it to patient. Not determining the drug’s safety and efficacy through clinical trials might impose life threatening outcomes on its consumers. The research paper describes the critical factors associated for testing any new drugs clinically, as limited research is performed in this field of public health. Study Design A qualitative systematic literature review was performed by mining relevant original peer reviewed research papers as well as some online resources like MedlinePlus due to limited availability of studies on such critical topic. Methods The databases used were Web of Sciences core collection, PubMed, Google scholar. The keywords used to search research papers were “clinical trials”, “testing new drugs”, “history of testing drugs”, “evidence-based medicine”. Conclusion Drugs which are prescribed to critical target population like pregnant women and children should be more often clinically tested if possible as majority of them are available in the market without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. The abusive potential of any new drug could end up taking lives of innocent individuals. More evidence-based medicine can help translate research results on a heterogeneous population efficiently.
Feb 2019 DOI 10.14302/issn.2689-2855.jan-19-2598
Rasool GhulamCorresponding author
School of Mathematical Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, PR-China
This study aims to numerically investigate the Marangoni convective flow of nanoliquid initiated by surface tension and heading towards a radiative Riga surface. The surface tension appears in the problem due to the gradients of temperature and concentration at the interface. The influence of first order chemical reaction is involved in the system with sufficient boundary conditions. Set of governing nonlinear PDEs is transformed into highly nonlinear ODEs using suitable transformations. HAM is applied for convergent series solutions. Impact of various pertinent fluid parameters on momentum, thermal and solutal boundary layers is analyzed graphically. The chemical reaction plays vital role in saturation of nanoparticles in the base fluid near the surface as well as away from it. The Lorentz forces originated by the Riga surface become powerful when the radiation parameter comes into effect. The significance of Riga plate is thus more prominent through thermal radiation. However, the magnetic effect dampens down for higher radiation parameter. Fluid parameters, Nusslt and Sherwood numbers are analyzed with detailed discussion and concluding remarks.
Mar 2018 DOI 10.14302/issn.2998-4122.jlr-18-2015
Safranj JelisavetaCorresponding author
University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technical Sciences, Serbia and Montenegro.
An exploratory piece discusses linguistic phenomena of 'webies' in cyberspace, considering morphology, semantics, and social usage patterns in online communication.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-17-1710
Çöpür MazlumCorresponding author
Associate Professor in Child and Adolescence Psychiatry. Arel University Faculty of Science and Letters Department of Psychology
Background: High number of patients suffering from autism spectrum disorders utilize dietary intervention methods, especially gluten-free/casein-free diet. In contrast with its’ extensive usage no sufficient and consistent data exist to support its’ efficiency and safety. Objective: The main aim of this systematic review is to provide a general look to the efficiency and safety of gluten-free/casein-free diet treatment for autism spectrum disorders. Method: Studies used in this systematic review are gathered from 3 online databases (PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library). Inclusion criteria are established for study selection. Articles published in a peer-reviewed article between 1990 and 2016 in English about our topic of interest and conducted with patients under the age of eighteen (18) are selected and further analyzed (“Level of Evidence” and “Grade of Recommendation” criteria are utilized). Results: Even though some studies with high values of “Level of Evidence” claim that gluten-free/casein-free diet is beneficial for patients suffering from autism spectrum disorders, studies with lower risk of bias demonstrate otherwise. Since studies such as case reports and cohort studies may contain bias associated with small sample size, absence of clear assessment methods, lack of randomization and short treatment period we suggest that there is no sufficient data to support gluten-free/casein-free diet treatment. Conclusion: Due to controversial outcomes from studies that have different “Level of Evidence” we speculate that efficiency of gluten-free/casein-free diet might be related to individual genetic differences. Therefore, studies conducted with large study groups could not provide statistically significant data to support this treatment option. Further studies should be conducted, especially in the field of genetics, in order to test our hypothesis.
Aug 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2377-2549.jndc-17-1645
Manivarman S.Corresponding author
Assistant Professor, Post Graduate and Research Department of Chemistry, Government Arts College, C-Mutlur, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India.
The structure of the newly synthesized hydrazone derivative 2 - 6 – oxo - 2-thioxotetrahydropyrimidin – 4 1H - ylidene hydrazine carbothioamide (OTTHPYHCT)compound is determined by using spectral information and elemental study. Density functional theory (DFT) studies were performed using the B3LYP/6-31G (d, p) basis set to expand imminent into their structural properties. Frontier molecular orbital (FMO’s) analysis of title compoundwas computed at the same level of theory to get knowledge about their kinetic stability of the molecule by the energy gap value obtained. Global reactivity descriptors are determined to explain the biological activity of the molecule. NBO analysis provides information about charge transfer, delocalization effect, hyperconjugative interactions and the energy responsible for the stabilization of the compound. First hyperpolarizability analysis nonlinear optical response was simulated at the B3LYP/6-31G d, p level of theory as well. Thermodynamic parameters explain vibrational intensity of the molecule.
Mar 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-7785.jarh-17-1461
Lessard SabrinaCorresponding author
Research Centre – InterActions, CUISSS du Nord-del’Île-de-Montréal
Given the aging of the population, an increase in the number of persons in need of long-term care and end-of-life care can be expected in the coming years. The scientific literature underlines the lack of end-of-life care for elderly people in long-term care centres. The aim of this study is to explore needs in terms of new knowledge and research on end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings, from the perspective not only of the scientific and international community, but also of Quebec professionals concerned by the issue. An online survey using the LimeSurvey® tool was conducted in 2015 among health professionals involved in end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings in Quebec. 208 professionals rated the priority of new knowledge and research needs related to 1) health professionals; 2) delivery and quality of care; 3) residents and their loved ones; and 4) organization and management of care. The results show that the statements collected in scientific literature resonate with health professionals. The most important need is to identify the symptoms of distress in residents in the final stages of their lives, as well as their causes and treatments. This study also shows professionals’ concerns about attitudes, beliefs, and values of practitioners and the related impacts on end-of-life care in long-term care settings. This study shows that there is a significant need for new knowledge and research. It revealed that there are few studies on end-of-life care for elderly persons in long-term care settings and that there is much more to be discovered in this field.
Jan 2017 DOI 10.14302/issn.2476-1710.jdt-16-1324
Meiser SusanneCorresponding author
University of Potsdam, Department of Psychology
An important step in the validation of disorder-specific etiological models is the examination of the predictive specificity of proposed vulnerability factors. It may advance the understanding of the emergence of comorbidity and the identification of at risk-populations for mental disorders. To enhance the currently limited evidence on the specificity of Beck´s cognitive diathesis-stress model of depression, the present study investigated longitudinal effects of dysfunctional attitudes and stressful life events on the development of depressive, eating disorder and aggressive symptoms in children and adolescents. A large sample of initially asymptomatic children and adolescents completed self-report symptom measures at study entrance and again approx. 20 months later, and reported stressful life events during the study interval. Stressful life events proved to be a risk factor to all investigated symptom domains. Dysfunctional attitudes at T1 were prospectively related to depressive symptoms, aggressive behavior and weight concerns at T2. However, types of associations varied as dysfunctional attitudes showed linear associations with weight concern, but nonlinear effects on depressive and aggressive symptomatology. Findings of the current study thus suggest that dysfunctional attitudes are not uniquely related to the development of depressive symptomatology in children and adolescents, but may contribute to adverse outcomes in various symptom domains. Thus, intervention efforts based on Beck´s vulnerability - stress model of depression may turn out to be useful in reducing vulnerability to a variety of outcomes in children and adolescents.
Jul 2016 DOI 10.14302/issn.2474-3585.jpmc-16-1112
V. Seeman MaryCorresponding author
Professor Emerita, Department of Psychiatry, University of Toronto, 260 Heath St. W., Suite 605, Toronto, Ontario, M5P 3L6, Canada.
Background: Mental health promotion depends to a large extent on the gathering of accurate baseline opinion data from a targeted population. Aim: The aim of this paper is to explore the potential applications of a new method of measuring true attitudes toward mental illness, and of monitoring and evaluating subsequent public health interventions. Method: This paper reviews the strengths and limitations of a novel survey method, RIWI, its early findings, and its potential applications in the field of mental health promotion. Comparisons are made to other commonly used survey methods through entering pertinent search terms into the Google Scholar™ database. Findings: The RIWI online survey method has several advantages over earlier survey methods: it is random, quick, anonymous, and reaches very large samples. Questionnaires are easily translatable and can be repeated, with excellent test-retest reliability. Anonymity reduces social desirability bias. The limitations are: a) variable completion rate, which carries the upside of allowing regional comparisons, and b) the reality that the respondent pool reflects regional Internet usage, often biased toward young literate males. Conclusions: A survey method that is able to quickly and repeatedly sample large numbers of random individuals is an important advance for health promotion in that interventions can be timely and their efficacy can be rapidly evaluated.
Nov 2014 DOI 10.14302/issn.2379-7835.ijn-14-475
K. Bai YeonCorresponding author
Associate Professor, Department of Nutrition and Food Studies, Montclair State University, Montclair, New Jersey 07043
Osteoporosis prevention among women requires obtaining proper knowledge early in life about the disease, risk factors and treatments. This study compares specific education sources to osteoporosis knowledge and calcium intake. Online survey usinga convenience sampling was performed with women between ages 18 and 40. The survey measured osteoporosis knowledge, calcium consumption, and specific education source within categories of age, school classes, television, radio, newspaper, magazine, Internet, and in-person. Multiple regression analysis determined influential education sources for osteoporosis knowledge and calcium intakes. Osteoporosis knowledge was suboptimal (13.8 ± 3.3, as a score higher than 16 defined as “adequate”) and average daily calcium intake was 1315.1 ± 609.9 mg. Age and newspaper had greatest contribution towards osteoporosis knowledge, while Internet, school classes and radio were most influential resources on calcium intakes. Creating an osteoporosis education initiative utilizing these sources is imperative for increasing disease knowledge and preventive behavior among young women.