Miracle-dz/UniFAR-FTUs huggingface dataset:
Risk assessment of exposure to needle-stick injuries by Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis Method in a large Hospital

Article in Persian Background and Objectives: Healthcare workers (HCWs) are one of the most important jobs in exposure to Needle Stick (NS) and, therefore, are in risk of infection to diseases such as Hepatitis B (HB) and AIDS. The aim of this study was to identify and assess risk of injuries caused by needle and sharps in healthcare personnel of a hospital in Tehran. Methods: In this study, hazard analysis method of Healthcare Failure Mode and Effect Analysis (HFMEA) was selected. After several meetings with related experts, by the help of a provided checklist, hazardous processes related to NS injuries were identified and finally assessed by HFMEA method. Results: Potential causes of injuries included recapping, sudden shake of patient organs, lack of personnel, and slip. For most of the causes there were no control measures. Sudden shake of patient's arm and heavy workload were recognized as high risk scores due to unskilled injector. Also for 53% of the studied cases, a score risk of more than 8 was recorded. Conclusion: As the results show, a major portion of potential causes of injuries had a high risk score, that is due to lack of a clear safety program or system to control the risk. Thus hospital manager should consider and control the causes according to the recommendations from risk assessment team. Totally HFMEA is an appropriate technique to analyze hazards related to NS injuries and predict effective measures to reduce related risks.
THE INVOLVEMENT OF VDR PROMOTER METHYLATION, CDX-2 VDR POLYMORPHISM AND VITAMIN D LEVELS IN MALE INFERTILITY.

Introduction Vitamin D (VD) levels were correlated with different health conditions, including reproductive disorders in males. Vitamin D action is mediated through vitamin D receptor (VDR), which acts as a transcription factor. VDR gene promoter is embedded in a GC-rich island. The VDR gene has been shown to have several polymorphisms that affect the receptor function. Aim To examine the relationship between Cdx-2 polymorphism (rs17883968), the methylation status of VDR's promoter and serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D in male infertility. Patients and Methods A total of 69 infertile men and 37 age-matched controls were enrolled in this study. Vitamin D level assessments were detected using the electrochemiluminescent method. Cdx-2 VDR polymorphism identification was performed by PCR on DNA samples from blood, followed by restriction. Methylation of VDR gene promoter was assessed by qMS-PCR using bisulfite-treated DNA from fresh sperm. Results Vitamin D levels was found to be significantly decreased in infertile groups compared the controls (p=0.0279). The GG genotype was found in a higher percentage in controls and the AA genotype was higher in infertile group (p=0.0056). Infertile homozygote (GG) and heterozygote (GA) individuals had significantly higher vitamin D levels than AA homozygote. Methylation is higher in individuals with lower vitamin D levels and AA genotype is characterized by higher methylation values. Conclusion The results provide new insights of Cdx-2 polymorphism is involved in vitamin D deficiency, highlighting the important role of epigenetic modification of vitamin D receptor and male infertility along with the genetic context.
What features do patients ‘want’ in a mobile asthma app?: a qualitative study

Introduction: Asthma self-management with an action plan, improves health outcomes although engaging patients is challenging. Mobile apps may promote engagement. Aim: We explored features that attract patients to download and use an asthma app. Methods: Participating practices in Lothian/Oxford (n=5) invited adults with active asthma (total n=500) to try our prototype app. We purposively sampled patients (age/sex, experience of asthma, current self-management and technology use) and interviewed them before and after using the app for one month. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically. We explored opinions about preferred features. Results: We recruited 15 patients who used iOS or android phones. Patients less familiar with technology needed assistance with downloading the app. Motivation for trying the app included helping research and improving their asthma. Features ‘wanted’ in an app varied. One patient who was confident with technology but only occasionally symptomatic felt ‘bored’ with logging peak-flow and symptoms, preferring advanced features that could identify precise triggers, or provide real time alarms if their condition worsened. Another less confident with asthma management found it ‘helpful’ to log peak-flow, symptoms and keep diary entries. One patient with exercise-induced asthma found it ‘quite good’ to log medications taken after exercise and connected with an activity tracker. Conclusion: We identified a number of different factors to inform future app development. One size does not fit all and ‘wanted’ features varied. Flexible apps may meet the needs of a broader range of patients. Funding: Chief Scientist Office [AUKCAR/14/01]
Synthesis of Lipase-Immobilized CeO2 Nanorods as Heterogeneous Nano-Biocatalyst for Optimized Biodiesel Production from Eruca sativa Seed Oil

Biodiesel has emerged as one of the most attractive alternative energy sources to meet the growing needs of energy. Many approaches have been adopted for biodiesel synthesis. In the present work, biodiesel was produced from non-edible Eruca sativa oil using nano-biocatalyst-catalysed transesterification. Nano-biocatalyst (CeO2@PDA@A. terreus Lipase) was developed via the immobilization of lipase on polydopamine coated ceria nanorods, and CeO2 nanorods were developed via a hydrothermal process. The mean diameter of nanorods were measured to be 50–60 nm, while their mean length was 150–200 nm. Lipase activity before and after immobilization was measured to be 18.32 and 16.90 U/mg/min, respectively. The immobilized lipase depicted high stability at high temperature and pH. CeO2@PDA@A. terreus Lipase-catalysed transesterification resulted in 89.3% yield of the product. Process optimization through response surface methodology was also executed, and it was depicted that the optimum/maximum E. sativa oil-based biodiesel yield was procured at conditions of 10% CeO2@PDA@A. terreus Lipase, 6:1 methanol/oil ratio, 0.6% water content, 35 °C reaction temperature, and 30 h reaction time. The fuel compatibility of synthesized biodiesel was confirmed via the estimation of fuel properties that were in agreement with the ASTM D standard. The nanorods and dopamine-modified nanorods were characterized by FTIR spectroscopy, SEM, and energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), while conversion of E. sativa oil to biodiesel was confirmed by GC/MS and FTIR spectroscopy. Conclusively, it was revealed that CeO2@PDA@A. terreus Lipase has potential to be employed as an emphatic nano-biocatalyst.
On fast and scalable recurring link’s prediction in evolving multi-graph streams

Abstract The link prediction task has found numerous applications in real-world scenarios. However, in most of the cases like interactions, purchases, mobility, etc., links can re-occur again and again across time. As a result, the data being generated is excessively large to handle, associated with the complexity and sparsity of networks. Therefore, we propose a very fast, memory-less, and dynamic sampling-based method for predicting recurring links for a successive future point in time. This method works by biasing the links exponentially based on their time of occurrence, frequency, and stability. To evaluate the efficiency of our method, we carried out rigorous experiments with massive real-world graph streams. Our empirical results show that the proposed method outperforms the state-of-the-art method for recurring links prediction. Additionally, we also empirically analyzed the evolution of links with the perspective of multi-graph topology and their recurrence probability over time.
Travel by Chinese: a generational cohort perspective

ABSTRACT This paper applies Generational Cohort Theory to gain a deeper understanding of attitudes towards, importance of and actual travel patterns displayed by four generations of people who live in central China. Travel was not part of the value set of the Republican and Lost Generations and as such they travel rarely and continue to see travel as unimportant. Values began to change in the Transition Generation, where members of this cohort begin to gain the financial wherewithal to travel. Value change was complete with the Post 80s generation who feel travel is now a normal part of their life. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Cyclic voltammetry characterization analysis on the cu/flame retardant 4 fabricated biosensor

Silicon, glass and ceramic are commonly base substrate used in DNA biosensor fabrication due to its biocompatible, expensive, hard and brittle. However due to the difficulty for drilling and dicing, these materials required expensive equipments and complex methodology of fabrication. Large gap of thermal expansion coefficient (TEC) between silicon/glass and film caused microcracks. Hence, the aim of this work is to investigate the suitability and the application of a non-biocompatible material, flame retardant 4 (FR4) as a base substrate for a label free DNA biosensor. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) reversible method has been implemented to test the fabricated Cu/Au on the FR4. It is found that the fabrication of Au has been made possible by the used of oxide-free Cu as an adhesion layer on the FR4 substrate. The area size of counter electrode (CE), working electrode (WE) and reference electrode (RE) are found to be 6.25 mm 2 , 0.581 mm 2 and 1.04 mm 2 , respectively, in order to achieve the unity reversible redox relationship and to ensure the sensor’s reliability for 10 mM K3Fe(CN)6 solution in 0.1 M KCl. Thus it can be concluded that the proposed FR4-based substrate fulfilled the CV reversible process characterization.
Outcomes-based appropriation of context-aware ubiquitous technology across educational levels

ABSTRACT This review study investigates the appropriation of sensing technology in context-aware ubiquitous learning (CAUL) in the fields of sciences, engineering, and humanities. 40 empirical studies with concrete learning outcomes across mandatory and higher education have been systematically reviewed and thematically analyzed with an outcomes-based teaching and learning approach. Four derived themes have been found to describe the design and implementation of CAUL, including learner-centeredness, technological facilitation, learning ecology, and research evaluation. The learning processes enabled by context-aware sensing technology have been explicated, revealing specific ways to apply new technologies in formal and informal environments. The analysis based on intended learning outcomes suggest that more efforts should be directed to fostering competence in analyzing and creating in mandatory education, and to creating in tertiary settings. Finally, unequal distribution of CAUL implementation across world regions calls for more technological appropriation in Southeast Asia and Africa. Specific suggestions on how to improve CAUL are also provided to better prepare learners in the twenty-first century.
Exosomes in bile as potential pancreatobiliary tumor biomarkers

Alterations in bile secretion and its composition results in different pancreatobiliary alterations such as cholangiocarcinoma (CCA), gallbladder cancer (GBC) among others, which are usually detected in late stages and associated with discouraging rates of survival. Given the challenges of clinical detection of the biliary tract abnormalities, the search for biomarkers for detection, prevention and management of bile tract pathology is of the utmost importance. Current blood based biomarkers have low sensitivity and specificity; therefore, new alternatives must be identified and validated, principally in fluids that are in direct contact with the affected tissues such as bile. Molecules in contact with the site of the lesion have proven potentially diagnostic for biliary tract tumors and allow the discrimination of different pathologies and its stages. However, the acquisition of these molecules has some technical drawbacks, and poses obstacles that are hard to overcome during the implementation of these techniques in a clinical setting. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) such as exosomes have been suggested as messengers between distant cells and are representative of their tissues of origin. It has been shown that tumor derived exosomes carry nucleic acids and oncogenic proteins, that contribute to the microenvironment necessary for tumor progression. Accordingly, tumor derived exosomes have been the focus of research to identify potential screening biomarkers and therapeutic targets, since they don’t require invasive procedures and carry not only useful information but also protect their material from extracellular enzymes and contaminants, improving molecular detection. These EVs haven’t been well characterized in biliary tract cancers as its study is very recent. Nonetheless, a few studies have highlighted the role of exosomes as facilitators of these cancers’ progression. The relationship between the presence and secretion of exosomes with altered expression of different molecules with diagnostic potential has been pointed out in recent studies, both in malignant diseases and benign conditions like inflammatory abnormalities. Since biliary tract pathologies are not easily detected and are often uncovered in advanced stages, overcoming the gap between basic and clinical research to identify and validate different candidate biomarkers that are present in exosomes is a decisive goal that requires large-scale multicenter studies and standardization of isolation, purification and characterization techniques.
Is tourism participation in protected areas the best livelihood strategy from the perspective of community development and environmental protection?

Abstract This study aims to assess the relationship between community development and environmental protection using the variables of perception of livelihood capitals changes and pro-environmental behaviours based on social exchange theory. Residents’ empirical data were collected at the Nanling National Nature Reserve, which is located in south China. Convenience sampling method was used in the survey, and 314 valid samples were collected in total. The results suggest that the perception of livelihood capitals changes has a significant impact on residents’ pro-environmental behaviours, and six types of livelihood capitals have variable effects on specific pro-environmental behaviours among distinct livelihood strategy groups. Under a tourism participation strategy, the overall effect of the perception of livelihood capitals changes on pro-environmental behaviours is the lowest among the three livelihood strategy groups. In addition, the levels of residents’ perception of livelihood capitals changes and pro-environmental behaviours under a tourism participation strategy are higher than those under a farming strategy, and those under a tourism participation strategy are lower than those under other strategies. This study develops a methodological approach to understand the relationship between development and conservation and advances social exchange theory. Several practical implications are discussed, and recommendations for future research are presented.
Efficacy of methyldopa versus nifedipine in mild and severe pregnancy induced hypertension

Pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) also called gestational hypertension is the most happened complication during pregnancy which causes fetomaternal mortality and morbidity. PIH is defined by systolic blood pressure > 140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure > 90 mmHg for four hours or more. Globally, 5-20% pregnancies are suffering with PIH, incidence varies from 2-8% in developed countries and almost 10% in developing countries. Antihypertensive therapy in PIH is to prevent complications due to hypertension while advancement of pregnancy thereby increases the foetal mortality. The commonly used antihypertensive drugs are methyldopa, nifedipine and Labetol. Since years, methyldopa is widely used in PIH treatment. It takes 12-24 hrs for adequate therapeutic response and large dose is required but it is helpful for long term control of blood pressure. Nifedipine is a non dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with potent vasodilated property. It causes ABSTRACT
Formulation of reduced sugar herbal ice cream using lemongrass or ginger extract

Purpose Ice cream is one of the popular sweet throughout the world. However, it contains high fat and sugar but lacks natural antioxidants. Several herbs in Thailand which are traditionally used as food ingredients show high antioxidant properties such as ginger and lemongrass. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to develop reduced sugar herbal ice cream using lemongrass and ginger extract. Design/methodology/approach Two ice cream formulas were prepared by using the lemongrass or ginger extract at the levels of 10, 15 and 20 percent (w/w), respectively. Moreover, xylitol was added as a substituted sugar at 80, 90 and 100 percent (w/w). Sensory evaluation was conducted by nine-point hedonic scale. Moreover, the physical, chemical and microbiological properties of the final ice cream product were determined by comparing with the control formula. Findings Based on the sensory evaluation, the two herbal ice cream formulas (15 percent lemongrass or ginger extract) with 90 percent xylitol replacement have the highest overall acceptability score of 7.28 and 7.44 (like moderately), respectively. The viscosity, overrun value and hardness of the reduced sugar herbal ice cream were not significantly different as compared to control formula (p=0.05). The chemical composition analysis showed that the total sugar of the product decreased by 65 percent. Moreover, antioxidant activities of herbal ice creams were higher than the control formula. The number of total bacteria of reduced sugar herbal ice cream was less than 10 CFU/mL. Originality/value The reduced sugar consumption is useful for lowering the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially diabetes mellitus. This paper presented the reduced sugar herbal ice cream formulas with high antioxidant activity. Therefore, these data could be the prototype in order to develop herbal and healthy ice cream product.
A point prevalence survey of antimicrobial prescribing in four Nigerian Tertiary Hospitals

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance has become a global challenge in health care. Its emergence in previously sensitive bacteria is usually associated with poor antibiotic-prescribing patterns. Methodology: A point prevalence survey was carried out in four tertiary hospitals in Nigeria in 2015 to determine the rate and characteristics of antibiotic prescription. Results: Of 828 patients eligible for the study, 69.7% received antibiotics, with highest rates in the adult Intensive Care Unit. There were therapeutic indications in 51.2% of the prescriptions, of which 89.5% were for community-acquired infections. Third-generation cephalosporins were the most prescribed antibiotics. On the evaluation of surgical prophylaxis, only 4.1% were compliant with institutional guidelines and 39.2% gave a reason for prescribing in patient case notes. Less than 1% of the prescriptions were based on the use of biomarkers. Conclusion: The prevalence of antibiotic prescription in Nigerian hospitals is high with only about 50% of prescriptions based on clear therapeutic indications. We provide evidence that the country needs to institute a cohesive antimicrobial stewardship intervention program.
Fetal and infant origins of childhood eczema, allergic sensitization and allergy

markdownabstractEczema is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease in childhood that inflicts a substantial physical, psychosocial and economic burden. Eczema may occur solely or coincide with allergic sensitization and symptoms of allergy as part of an atopic constitution. Because the developmental origins of childhood eczema, allergic sensitization and allergy may partly lie in pregnancy and infancy, it is from an etiological perspective crucial to study fetal and infant exposures that may affect the risk of these entities. Also, insight into the role of fetal and infant exposures may provide opportunities for prevention strategies at times when their effect is expected to be greatest. The aim of this thesis was to assess the associations of fetal and infant exposures with childhood eczema, inhalant and food allergic sensitization or allergy. The fetal and infant exposures of interest included maternal psychiatric symptoms during pregnancy and maternal and fetal vitamin D levels, and ethnic origin, breastfeeding duration and exclusiveness, and timing or diversity of allergenic food introduction, respectively. We hypothesized that exposures in fetal life and infancy may affect the child's developing immune system or epidermal barrier function and, subsequently, the risk of eczema, allergic sensitization and allergy. The research was embedded in the Generation R Study, a large multi-ethnic population-based prospective birth cohort in Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
Critical Thinking as a Predictor of Self-Esteem of University Students

This study aimed to examine the predictive role of critical thinking on university students’ self-esteem. The participants of the study included 433 undergraduate students in a variety of programs. Of the 433 students, 294 were female while 139 male, and the mean age was 20.2 years. Data collection tools included the California Critical Thinking Scale and Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. The relationship between the critical thinking and self-esteem of university students were determined using correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. The findings of the correlation analysis showed that analyticity, open-mindedness, inquisitiveness, self-confidence, truth-seeking, and systematicity were significantly correlated with self-esteem. In addition, a regression analysis showed that self-esteem was predicted by open-mindedness, inquisitiveness, and self-confidence. Keywords: Critical Thinking, Self-Esteem, University Students, Multiple Regression Analysis, Self-Confidence Cette étude avait comme objectif d’examiner le rôle prédictif de la pensée critique sur l’estime de soi des étudiants à l’université. Les participants à cette étude comprenaient 433 étudiants provenant de différents programmes du premier cycle, dont 294 femmes et 139 hommes d’un âge moyen de 20,2 ans. Parmi les outils de collecte de données, notons le California Critical Thinking Scale et le Coopersmith Self-Esteem Inventory. Le rapport entre la pensée critique et l’estime de soi des étudiants à l’université a été établi par une analyse de corrélation et une analyse de régression multiple. Les résultats de l’analyse de corrélation indiquent que l’analyticité, l’ouverture d’esprit, la curiosité, la confiance en soi, la recherche de la vérité et la systématicité présentent une corrélation significative avec l’estime de soi. De plus, une analyse de régression a indiqué que l’ouverture d’esprit, la curiosité et la confiance en soi étaient des facteurs prédictifs de l’estime de soi. Mots clés : pensée critique; estime de soi; étudiants d’université; analyse de régression multiple; confiance en soi