bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Innovative UHS Steel Material for Tension-Only Braced CFS Walls
Authors: Campiche Alessia
Published: January 2021

Lightweight Steel (LWS) systems, made of Cold Formed Steel (CFS) profiles, are widespread in seismic areas and often preferred to traditional systems. Improving structural performances in order to have higher building is now the goal, which could be achieved thanks to the use of steel innovative material. In particular, to increase the seismic performances of CFS buildings, the University of Naples “Federico II”, in cooperation with the Italian company Lamieredil S.p.A., has developed an innovative Lateral Force Resisting System (LFRS). The LFRS mainly consists of CFS frame (studs and tracks) braced by “V” shaped pre-tensioned Ultra High Strength (UHS) steel bars. The bracing was designed to be able to limit global displacement of structure, working as elastic spring, and to dissipate seismic energy by yielding. In order to prove the effectiveness of the new system, an extensive experimental campaign has been conducted. This paper focuses on material and component tests, describing tension tests on traditional materials and UHS steel, creep tests on UHS steel and nut-bar assembly tests.
Fatigue Damage Monitoring of CFRP Elements by Thermographic Procedure under Bending Loads
Authors: Pirinu Alessandra , Panella Francesco
Published: January 2021

For structural health of mechanical structures, non-destructive detection and material defect characterization represent the main useful tools for mechanical decay prediction caused by local composite damage phenomena. In this work, internal delamination due to alternate bending were characterized in flat specimens, performing fatigue and static tests, coupled with thermographic, optical, and ultrasonic analysis for damage detection and evolution purposes. Damage to rupture behavior of CFRP material through mechanical tensile tests is performed on several samples and non-destructive inspection procedures are optimized during successive HCF tests to detect in real time local compliance variations and damage initiation. Thermographic continuous monitoring and occasional ultrasonic analysis are implemented to analyze composite anomalies during fatigue life and to elaborate a procedure for identification of delamination induced damage before failure. IRT and UT results are computed with MATLAB analysis for damage evaluation with strain and compliance data acquired during tests.
Control the Surface Wettability of Thermo-Responsive Poly(Ethylene Glycol Methyl Ether methacrylate-co-Triethylene Glycol Methyl Ether Methacrylate) Thin Film by Varying Temperature
Authors: Chen Yang Yi , Pan Min , Hu Shan Hong , Huan Qi , Zhang Chu Yang
Published: January 2021

The surface wettability of thermo-responsive random poly (ethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate-co-triethylene glycol methyl ether methacrylate), abbreviated as P(MEOMA-co-MEO3MA), was investigated in thin film. UV-Vis spectroscopy shows that the LCST of P(MEOMA-co-MEO3MA) with molar ratios of 0:20, 6:14 and 9:11 were 43°C, 32 oC and 25 oC, respectively. LCST shifts towards lower temperature when molar ratio of MEOMA increases. ATR-FTIR indicates that P(MEOMA-co-MEO3MA) thin film experienced a collapse when the temperature passes its LCST. The contact angle of the paraffin oil on the film decreases 15o when the temperature is above its LCST, which confirms the surface wettability can be controlled. Atomic force microscopy shows the surface of the swollen thin film becomes rougher when above it LCST.
Amplification Factor for Wood-Concrete Hybrid Structures Based on Dynamic Numerical Simulation
Authors: Huang Yi Hui , Tsai Meng Ting
Published: January 2021

Extensive concerns on environmental protection have provoked low-carbon buildings to be the mainstream of building construction worldwide, and wooden structures in this sense outperform other structural forms. Wooden-concrete hybrid structures featuring distinct wooden and concrete stories typically exhibit uneven stiffness distribution along the structure height; in particular, abrupt stiffness changes occur at the wood-concrete transition stories. Therefore, structural designing of such hybrid structures must consider a stiffness amplification effect in the static structural calculation as well as complicated procedures in the dynamic analysis. To determine an appropriate amplification factor for design purpose, this study employed a dynamic numerical approach to determine the displacement response of wooden-concrete hybrid buildings and compared the results with the displacement response obtained from static analyses. According to the results, it is found that the appropriate amplification factor should beα= f (x) = 0.47x + 1.00.αcan be valued 1.94 at 2nd floor, 2.41 at 3rd floor and 2.88 at 4th floor. The results may serve as a reference for seismic designing of wooden-concrete hybrid structures.
Numerical Analysis of Aerospace Nickel-Based Single-Crystal Superalloy Weldability Part II: Nonequilibrium Solidification Behavior
Authors: Gao Zhi Guo
Published: January 2021

The thermal metallurgical modeling by coupling of heat transfer model, dendrite selection model, columnar/equiaxed transition (CET) model and nonequilibrium solidification model was further developed to numerically analyze stray grain formation and solidification temperature range on the basis of three criteria of constitutional undercooling, marginal stability of planar front and minimum growth velocity during multicomponent nickel-based single-crystal superalloy weld pool solidification. It is indicated that the primary γ gamma phase microstructure development and solidification cracking susceptibility along the solid/liquid interface are symmetrically distributed throughout the weld pool in (001) and [100] welding configuration. The microstructure development and solidification cracking susceptibility along the solid/liquid interface are asymmetrically distributed in (001) and [110] welding configuration. Appropriate low heat input (low laser power and high welding speed) simultaneously minimizes stray grain formation, grain boundary misorientation and solidification temperature range in the vulnerable [100] dendrite growth region and beneficially maintains single-crystal nature of the material in the [001] epitaxial dendrite growth region to improve the cracking resistance, while high heat input (high laser power and low welding speed) increases the solidification cracking susceptibility to deteriorate weldability and weld integrity. The solidification temperature range in (001) and [110] welding configuration is detrimentally wider than that of (001) and [100] welding configuration due to crystallographic orientation of dendrite growth regardless of heat input. The mechanism of asymmetrical crystallography-dependant solidification cracking because of nonequilibrium solidification behavior is proposed. The elliptical and shallow weld pool shape is less susceptible to solidification cracking for successful crack-free laser welding. Moreover, the promising theoretical predictions agree well with the experiment results. The useful modeling is also applicable to other single-crystal superalloys with similar metallurgical properties during laser welding or laser cladding.
IDEE E MODELLI DEL PACIFISMO TRA XIX E XX SECOLO
Authors: Anta Claudio Giulio
Published: January 2021

Ai fini della stesura di questo saggio, è utile rammentare alcuneriflessioni elaborate da prestigiosi intellettuali contemporanei. NorbertoBobbio precisò che il pacifismo poteva agire sui mezzi, sulleistituzioni o sugli uomini. Nel primo caso formulò il concetto di “pacifismostrumentale”, la cui azione mirava a limitare gli strumenti diguerra (dottrina e politica del disarmo) o a rifiutare drasticamente ilricorso a comportamenti violenti (la teoria della nonviolenza come ilSatyagraha di Gandhi).
Pulmonary arterial hypertension: guidelines and unmet clinical needs
Authors: Giuggioli D. , Bruni C. , Cacciapaglia F. , Dardi F. , De Cata A. , Del Papa N. , Iannone F. , Lunardi C. , Maglione W. , Molinaro F. , Palazzini M. , Spinella A. , Tinazzi E. , Matucci Cerinic M.
Published: January 2021

The term pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) identifies a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by a progressive increase in pulmonary arterial resistance (PVR), which causes a significant burden in terms of quality of life, right heart failure and premature death. The pathogenesis of PAH is not completely clear: the remodeling of the small pulmonary vessels is crucial, causing an increase in the resistance of the pulmonary circle. Its diagnosis is based on cardiac catheterization of the right heart. According to the present hemodynamic definition of pulmonary hypertension (PH) proposed by the Guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology/European Respiratory Society (ESC-ERS), the mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP) values are ≥25 mmHg. In case of PAH, apart from an mPAP value ≥25 mmHg, patients must have a >3 Wood units increase in PVR and normal pressure values of the left heart. PH is a pathophysiological condition observed in more than 40 different diseases, while PAH is a primary disease of the pulmonary bloodstream potentially treatable with specific drugs. PAH is a severe complication of systemic sclerosis (SSc) affecting about 10% of the patients. Due to the devastating nature of SSc-PAH, there is a clear need to systematically adopt appropriate screening programs. In fact, despite awareness of the negative impact of SSc-PAH on quality of life and survival, as well as on the severity of lung function, at the moment standardized and shared guidelines and/or screening programs for the diagnosis and the subsequent early treatment of PAH in SSc are not available. The aim of the present paper is to highlight the lights and shadows of SSc-PAH, unraveling the unmet clinical needs on this topic with a proposal of clinical-diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines.
Dietary selenium supplementation, clarified egg yolk extender and slow cooling improve cryopreserved sperm characteristics of Saanen buck
Authors: Lukusa Kambulu , Hassen Abubeker , Lehloenya Khoboso C.
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To evaluate the effect of cooling rates, selenium supplementation, and three semen extenders on cooled and frozen-thawed Saanen buck sperm.

Methods:

Twenty Saanen bucks were divided into two groups: the selenium supplemented group and the control group. Ejaculates were collected once weekly by artificial vagina. The first experiment examined the effects of cooling rates and selenium supplementation on semen characteristics of Saanen bucks. Pooled semen was diluted with triladyl extender and split into two aliquots for slow and fast cooling. The second experiment explored the effect of selenium supplementation and semen extenders on post-cryopreserved sperm quality. Ejaculates from each group were divided into three aliquots and diluted with three extenders (i.e. clarified egg-yolk, whole egg yolk, Tris without egg-yolk extenders). All samples were cooled for 2 h at 4 °C and frozen at -196 °C for 24 h. The sperm characteristics such as sperm motility, acrosome integrity, normal morphology, and viability were evaluated by using a phase-contrast microscope.

Results:

In the first experiment, all sperm characteristics were significantly increased in selenium supplemented samples when slow cooling was used (P<0.05). In the second experiment, in cooled semen, sperm motility and viability were significantly increased in both clarified egg yolk and Tris without egg yolk extenders in selenium supplemented samples as compared with whole egg yolk extender, respectively (P<0.05). After freezing-thawing, all sperm parameters of selenium supplemented samples in clarified egg yolk extender were significantly greater than those in Tris without egg yolk extender (P<0.05). However, normal morphology and acrosome integrity of selenium supplemented samples in whole egg yolk extender were similar to those of selenium supplemented samples in clarified egg yolk extender.

Conclusions:

The characteristics of cooled and post-cryopreserved sperm are greater when clarified egg yolk extender is used in semen from selenium supplemented bucks.
Peripheral zone PSA density
Authors: Wang Cheng , Wang Yue-Yang , Wang Shi-Yuan , Ding Ji-Xiang , Ding Mao , Ruan Yuan , Wang Xiao-Hai , Jing Yi-Feng , Han Bang-Min , Xia Shu-Jie , Jiang Chen-Yi , Zhao Fu-Jun
Published: January 2021

To improve the diagnostic efficiency of prostate cancer (PCa) and reduce unnecessary biopsies, we defined and analyzed the diagnostic efficiency of peripheral zone prostate-specific antigen (PSA) density (PZ-PSAD). Patients who underwent systematic 12-core prostate biopsies in Shanghai General Hospital (Shanghai, China) between January 2012 and January 2018 were retrospectively identified (n = 529). Another group of patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (n = 100) were randomly preselected to obtain the PSA density of the non-PCa cohort (N-PSAD). Prostate volumes and transition zone volumes were measured using multiparameter magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) and were combined with PSA and N-PSAD to obtain the PZ-PSAD from a specific algorithm. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to assess the PCa detection efficiency in patients stratified by PSA level, and the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of PZ-PSAD was higher than that of PSA, PSA density (PSAD), and transition zone PSA density (TZ-PSAD). PZ-PSAD could amend the diagnosis for more than half of the patients with inaccurate transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS) and mpMRI results. When TRUS and mpMRI findings were ambiguous to predict PCa (PIRADS score ≤3), PZ-PSAD could increase the positive rate of biopsy from 21.7% to 54.7%, and help 63.8% (150/235) of patients avoid unnecessary prostate biopsy. In patients whose PSA was 4.0–10.0 ng ml−1, 10.1–20.0 ng ml−1, and >20.0 ng ml−1, the ideal PZ-PSAD cut-off value for predicting clinically significant PCa was 0.019 ng ml−2, 0.297 ng ml−2, and 1.180 ng ml−2, respectively (sensitivity >90%). Compared with PSA, PSAD, and TZ-PSAD, the efficiency of PZ-PSAD for predicting PCa is the highest, leading to fewer missed diagnoses and unnecessary biopsies.
Obstetric anaesthesia as a career
Authors: Pandya Sunil T , Chakravarthy Kousalya , Shah Pratibha Jain , Trikha Anjan
Published: January 2021

Obstetric anaesthesia is emerging as one of the most demanding subspecialities of anaesthesia. Obstetric anaesthesiologists are now an integral part of the multidisciplinary team managing the high-risk obstetrics. It has been recognised that targeted training in obstetric anaesthesia helps to recognise the mothers who need special care and formulate specific plan for delivery. Among the subspecialties of anaesthesia, obstetric anaesthesia has the potential to get established early. Obstetric anaesthesiologists have the prospect of choosing either a team or an independent practice. Group practice with a multidisciplinary team can mitigate some of the constraints and allows professional fulfilment and enough time for personal, family and societal commitments. Obstetric anaesthesia is a well-paid and sought-after speciality, and a dynamic field that demands excellent clinical and interpretative skills in a rapidly changing environment.
Choosing Neuroanaesthesia as a career
Authors: Khandelwal Ankur , Jangra Kiran , Katikar Manisha D. , Durga Padmaja , Maheswara Rao G. S. Uma
Published: January 2021

Anaesthesiology is an ever-changing science and amongst its sub-specialities, the field of neuroanaesthesia is making rapid strides. The fragility of the brain and spinal cord and the multitude of complexities involved in neurosurgery and interventional neuroradiological procedures demand dedicated training in neuroanaesthesia. With rapid advancement in other neuroscience specialties, neuroanaesthesia too has made outstanding progress, owing to establishment of structured training, publication of high-quality scientific research, and invention of novel medications and monitoring modalities. The opportunities for training in India and abroad and resources to broaden knowledge in neuroanaesthesia have increased over the last two decades. A career in neuroanaesthesia offers a great future for budding anaesthesiologists.
Item analysis and optimizing multiple-choice questions for a viable question bank in ophthalmology
Authors: Bhat Subrahmanya K , Prasad Kishan HL
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are useful in assessing student performance, covering a wide range of topics in an objective way. Its reliability and validity depend upon how well it is constructed. Defective Item detected by item analysis must be looked for item writing flaws and optimized. The aim of this study was to evaluate the MCQs for difficulty levels, discriminating power with functional distractors by item analysis, analyze poor items for writing flaws, and optimize.

Methods:

This was a prospective cross-sectional study involving 120 MBBS students writing formative assessment in Ophthalmology. It comprised 40 single response MCQs as a part of 3-h paper for 20 marks. Items were categorized according to their difficulty index, discrimination index, and distractor efficiency with simple proportions, mean, standard deviation, and correlation. The defective items were analyzed for proper construction and optimized.

Results:

The mean score of the study group was 13.525 ± 2.617. Mean difficulty index, discrimination index, and distractor efficiency were 53.22, 0.26, and 78.32, respectively. Among 40 MCQs, twenty-five MCQs did not have non-functioning distractor; 7 had one, 5 had two, and 3 had three. Of the 20 defective items, 17 were optimized and added to the question bank, two were added without modification, and one was dropped.

Conclusion:

Item analysis is a valuable tool in detecting poor MCQs, and optimizing them is a critical step. The defective items identified should be optimized and not dropped so that the content area covered by the defective item is not kept of the assessment.
Changing trends in the use of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) biosimilars
Authors: Sheth Jay U , Stewart Michael W , Khatri Manoj , Gupta Shashank R , Chawla Shobhit , Rajendran Anand , Narayanan Raja
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to present the outcomes of the 2018 and 2020 Vitreo-retinal Society of India (VRSI) biosimilars of anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) (VIBE) surveys.

Methods:

An online survey of members of VRSI was conducted in July 2018 and January 2020 regarding their practice-patterns on anti-VEGF biosimilars pertaining to safety, efficacy, pricing, and need for enhanced clinical trials before regulatory approval.

Results:

In 2018, 112 VRSI members participated, whereas in 2020, 98 society members participated. In both surveys, majority of respondents were aware of biosimilars (96%, 2018 vs. 100%, 2020; P = 0.9) and felt that approval of biosimilar drugs should be made more stringent with larger clinical trials (89%, 2018 vs. 91%, 2020; P = 0.93). An increase in use of ranibizumab-biosimilar (41%, 2018 to 56%, 2020; P = 0.2) and a simultaneous significant decline in use of bevacizumab-biosimilar (9%, 2018 to 2%, 2020; P = 0.04) was noted from 2018 to 2020. From 2018 to 2020, the proportion of respondents satisfied with safety (61% to 68%; P = 0.59) and efficacy (65% to 81%; P = 0.32) of ranibizumab-biosimilar increased. However, during the same period, we noted in reduction in satisfaction levels with safety of bevacizumab-biosimilar (30% to 25%; P = 0.54), whereas satisfaction with its efficacy was stable (29% vs 30%; P = 0.99). A substantial proportion of retina specialists considered that current cost of ranibizumab-biosimilar ($130) was sufficiently low for it to be used as a substitute for Avastin (37%, 2018 and 40%, 2020; P = 0.82).

Conclusion:

The VRSI surveys reveal that Indian vitreoretinal specialists are familiar with anti-VEGF biosimilars. There was a progressive trend favoring ranibizumab-biosimilar over bevacizumab-biosimilar. One-third of the participants deem the current price of ranibizumab-biosimilar as appropriate to replace Avastin. Simultaneously, the need for enhanced pharmacovigilance and larger clinical trials are warranted for regulatory approval of these agents.
Lying down looking down test
Authors: Rajput Vimal K , Bhalsing Shweta , Bhalsing Snehal , Raut Pritish
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to evaluate an OPD-based Lying down looking down (LDLD) test for the assessment of patient suitability for assisted topical anesthesia (ATA) during manual small incision cataract surgery (MSICS), and to compare it with assisted local anesthesia (ALA).

Methods:

The LDLD test was carried out during preoperative assessment of 250 consecutive patients. A standard LED torch was shined in patient's eye after pupil dilation, with the patient in lying down position, while simultaneously elevating the upper eyelid digitally. A positive test was indicated by the ability to maintain downward gaze and the lack of squeezing of eyes or withdrawal. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests were used to assess the association between LDLD results and suitability for ATA. The positive predictive value and specificity of the test as an indicator of patient suitability for ATA were calculated. Complications (intra- and post-operative) and postoperative inflammation at day 1 and week 6 were compared between the ATA and ALA groups.

Results:

A total of 250 patients were included in the study, 138 in ALA group and 112 in ATA group. There were 109 males (43.6%) and 141 females (56.4%). Around 7.4% of LDLD- positive patients were converted to ALA during the surgery. Chi-square and Fisher's exact tests demonstrated a significant association of a positive LDLD test with successful ATA (P value 0.002). The positive predictive value and specificity of the test were 92.56% (95% CI86.87-95.9%) and 93.48% (95% CI87.98-96.97%), respectively. Intraoperative complications were similar in both the groups. Congestion and visually significant corneal edema were significantly less in ATA group.

Conclusion:

The LDLD is a simple, highly specific, OPD-based test to determine patient suitability for MSICS under ATA
Role of neuroimaging in cases of primary and secondary hemifacial spasm
Authors: Banerjee Prabrisha , Alam Md. Shahid , Koka Kirthi , Pherwani Ruchi , Noronha Olma Veena , Mukherjee Bipasha
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

The objective of this study was to analyze the role of neuroimaging and documenting various intracranial pathologies in primary and secondary hemifacial spasm.

Methods:

This retrospective study included patients with HFS who had undergone neuroimaging. The demographic profile, onset, progression, neuroimaging findings, and types of HFS were documented and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 202 patients (male = 110, female = 92) were included. The mean age of the study population was 51.81 ± 11.76 years. The right side was involved in 104 patients, the left side was involved in 97 patients and bilateral involvement was observed in one patient. Primary HFS: secondary HFS was 9.6:1. The mean age of onset of the spasms in the primary HFS group was 49.26 ± 8.35 years and in secondary HFS was 43.13 ± 12.12 years respectively. The anterior inferior cerebellar artery was the major vessel causing neurovascular conflict in primary HFS (n = 55). Facial nerve palsy was the most common cause (n = 13) of secondary HFS followed by cerebellopontine angle (CPA) tumors.

Conclusion:

The hemifacial spasm occurs mostly in the fifth decade of life. Primary HFS is more prevalent than secondary HFS. Clinical distinction between them is difficult. Neuroimaging is essential to detect the conflicting vasculature in cases of primary HFS and pathologies like CPA tumor, cyst, and aneurysms in cases of secondary HFS.
Intravitreal moxifloxacin injections in acute post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis
Authors: Agarwal Abhishek , Nagpal Manisha
Published: January 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of intravitreal moxifloxacin injections in the treatment of acute post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis with visual acuity equal to or greater than hand movements.

Methods:

Fifty two patients with post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis who presented within 6 weeks with visual acuity equal to or greater than hand movements received two intravitreal moxifloxacin injections 48 h apart. Patients with prior history of ocular disease or treatment were excluded. Patients were followed up to 3 months either for resolution of endophthalmitis or worsening of disease. Number of patients who achieved visual acuity equal to or better than 20/40 and 20/200 at the third-month follow-up visit were compared with the number of patients at presentation, using Chi-square test. In addition, pretreatment LogMAR visual acuity at the time of presentation was compared with posttreatment visual acuity at end of third month using paired t test.

Results:

Fifty (96.15%) patients showed complete resolution of endophthalmitis while three patients required vitrectomy. Forty-one (78.85%) and 49 (94.23%) patients achieved visual acuity equal to or better than 20/40 and 20/200, respectively, at the third-month follow-up visit as compared to eight (15.38%) and 13 (25%) patients, respectively, at presentation (P < 0.05). In addition, mean LogMAR visual acuity at the time of presentation was 0.755 which improved to 0.307 at the third-month follow-up visit (P < 0.05). None of the patients developed hypersensitivity reactions to intravitreal moxifloxacin.

Conclusion:

Intravitreal moxifloxacin injections showed promising results in acute post-cataract surgery endophthalmitis.
Geriatric population in India
Authors: Malik Chetanya , Khanna Shilpa , Jain Yogesh , Jain Rachna
Published: January 2021

Global pandemic due to corona virus disease (COVID-19) has exposed vulnerabilities of the geriatric population all over the world. India has been adding progressively increasing number of elderly to its population. This is happening with increasing life expectancy and decreasing mortality. In comparison to children, the population as well as deaths in elderly are rising with changing demography. The elderly population has its own vulnerabilities based on education, socioeconomic condition, gender, place of residence etc. They are affected by various non-communicable diseases which form predominant cause of morbidity and mortality like cardiovascular diseases, stroke, cancer, respiratory illnesses etc. The elderly also contribute to various kinds of disabilities like movement, vision, hearing and in many cases multiple disabilities. They are also more vulnerable to mental health problems and cognitive impairment. The article also suggests a way forward in dealing with rising geriatric age group and its associated problems. The programs supporting this population are largely scattered which needs to be consolidated to include social security, pension and food security along with health benefits. The approach to health care of the elderly needs a comprehensive strategy instead of the present fragmented approach where different disease based programs for non-communicable diseases, cancer and mental health cater to specific health issues of the elderly. Greater awareness, training and skill building in geriatric health for primary care physicians need focus and energy. Prioritizing training and research in this field including the need for more geriatricians has been highlighted.
Evaluation of the effect of shift cycle time on chest compression quality during cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Heydari Farhad , Eghdami Kourosh , Zamani Majid , Golshani Keihan , Masoumi Babak
Published: January 2021

Objective:

Considering the potential role of shift cycle time on chest compression quality during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the available contradictory results in this regard, the present study aimed at evaluating the effect of 1-min versus 2-min shift cycle time on the quality of CPR.

Materials and Methods:

In this randomized crossover study, 80 rescuers performed CPR on a manikin in two scenarios with a rotation of 1 and 2-min cycles. The quality of CPR was evaluated and compared based on the information obtained regarding the chest compression depth, recoil, and rate of chest compression. In addition, rescuer fatigue was recorded in 1-min versus 2-min shift cycles.

Results:

In the 1-min group, the number of chest compressions per minute, complete recoil, and good rate with the mean of 114.89 ± 3.62, 54.34 ± 3.86, and 76.06 ± 8.00 were significantly higher than those of the 2-min group with the mean of 113.78 ± 4.94, 53.49 ± 5.27, and 73.98 ± 7.87 (P < 0.05), respectively. In addition, the quality of CPR provided by males was significantly higher than females in both groups. The score of rescuer fatigue was higher in the 2-min group as compared with the 1-min group (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

According to the results of the present study, the difference in the quality of CPR in terms of the number of chest compressions, complete recoil, and good rate was higher in the 1-min group as compared with the 2-min group. In addition, the quality of CPR in terms of chest compression depth and number in both 1-and 2-min rotation cycles was higher for male rescuers than females. Furthermore, rescuer fatigue was higher in the 2-min group as compared with the 1-min group. The mentioned finding may be a factor in reducing, albeit slightly, the quality of CPR in the group with a longer time.
Spectrality of Moran Sierpinski-type measures on
Authors: Zhang Min-Min
Published: January 2021

Let
$M=$
diag
$(\rho _1,\rho _2)\in M_{2}({\mathbb R})$
be an expanding matrix and Let
$\{D_n\}_{n=1}^{\infty }$
be a sequence of digit sets with
$D_n=\left \{(0, 0)^T,\,\,\,(a_n, 0 )^T, \,\,\, (0, b_n )^T \right \}$
, where
$a_n, b_n\in \{-1,1\}$
. The associated Borel probability measure
$$ \begin{align*} \mu_{M,\{D_n\}}:=\delta_{M^{-1}D_1}\ast \delta_{M^{-2}D_2}\ast \delta_{M^{-3}D_3}\ast \cdots \end{align*} $$
is called a Moran Sierpinski-type measure. In this paper, we show that
$\mu _{M, \{D_n\}}$
is a spectral measure if and only if
$3\mid \rho _i$
for each
$i=1, 2$
. The special case is the Sierpinski-type measure with
$a_n=b_n=1$
for all
$n\in {\mathbb N}$
, which is proved by Dai et al. [Appl. Comput. Harmon. Anal. (2020), https://doi.org/10.1016/j.acha.2019.12.001].
State-of-the-art overview on biological treatment for CRSwNP
Authors: Hellings P.W. , Verhoeven E. , Fokkens W.J.
Published: January 2021

Background: The majority of patients with uncontrolled severe CRSwNP, asthma and atopic dermatitis share a similar T helper 2 type inflammation linked to their underlying phenotype. This discovery has triggered new research around treatments targeting specific cytokines driving inflammation in CRSwNP like IL-4, IL-13, IL-5 and IgE. Biologicals are increasingly tested as additional tre- atment for patients suffering from severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Their efficacy has been demonstrated in multiple studies. All studies differ in terms of baseline characteristics of included patients and outcome parameters analysed. Aims: A comparative analysis of the efficacy of reported biologicals for CRSwNP based on the published data for phase 2 and 3 studies. The aim was to provide a comprehensive overview across the different biologicals and outcome parameters. Methods: In a first step we critically selected out of all available phase 2 and 3 clinical trials the ones containing the most rigorous and compatible study designs. Meaning studies that comply with a need for a clear definition of CRSwNP, at least two administra- tion doses, comparable timeframes and the same outcome parameters studied. This assessment was performed using a PRISMA search. We retained 7 studies with significant data for dupilumab, mepolizumab and omalizumab. In a second step the effect-sizes of treatment with those biologicals were compared for the most important outcome parameters both patient relevant (nasal con- gestion, smell loss and SNOT-22 scores) and patient irrelevant (CT scan Lund-Mackay, smell test and nasal polyp scores). Therapy duration of 16 to 25 weeks was chosen for evaluation of efficacy. Results: A direct comparison of efficacy between dupilumab, mepolizumab and omalizumab is challenging given differences in inclusion criteria, outcome parameters and time-points of analyses. We have been able to conclude that effect sizes of dupilumab, mepolizumab and omalizumab seem large enough to reflect a major reduction in symptom burden as experienced by patients suffering from refractory CRSwNP. The effect size of dupilumab on both patient relevant and patient irrelevant parameters of smell loss are clearly significant and reflect the clinical experience of major reduction of smell impairment in treated patients. Conclusion: Despite the heterogeneity of protocols, dosages and time-points of analyses of biological trials in CRSwNP, this over- view highlights outcomes of biological treatment in CRSwNP in a comprehensive way. Real-life registries, comparative trials and/ or endotype-driven treatment plans are needed to provide the answers to the multiple questions that are still open today.
The Iberian-Guanche rock inscriptions at La Palma Is.: all seven Canary Islands (Spain) harbour these scripts
Authors: Arnaiz-Villena Antonio , Suárez-Trujillo Fabio , Ruiz-del-Valle Valentín , López-Nares Adrián , Pais-Pais Felipe Jorge
Published: January 2021

Rock Iberian-Guanche inscriptions have been found in all Canary Islands including La Palma: they consist of incise (with few exceptions) lineal scripts which have been done by using the Iberian semi-syllabary that was used in Iberia and France during the 1st millennium BC until few centuries AD .This confirms First Canarian Inhabitants navigation among Islands. In this paper we analyze three of these rock inscriptions found in westernmost La Palma Island: hypotheses of transcription and translation show that they are short funerary and religious text, like of those found widespread through easternmost Lanzarote, Fuerteventura and also Tenerife Islands. They frequently name “Aka” (dead), “Ama” (mother godness) and “Bake” (peace), and methodology is mostly based in phonology and semantics similarities between Basque language and prehistoric Iberian-Tartessian semi-syllabary transcriptions. These Iberian-Guanche scripts are widespread in La Palma usually together with spiral and circular typical Atlantic motifs which are similar to these of Megalithic British Isles, Brittany (France) and Western Iberia. Sometimes linear incise Iberian-Guanche inscriptions are above the circular ones (more recent) but they are also found underneath (less recent). The idea that this prehistoric Iberian semi-syllabary was originated in Africa and/or Canary Islands is not discarded. It is discussed in the frame of Saharian people migration to  Mediterranean, Atlantic (i.e.: Canary Islands) and other areas, when hyperarid climate rapidly established. On the other hand, an Atlantic gene and possibly linguistic and cultural pool is shared among people from British Isles, Brittany (France), Iberia (Spain, Portugal), North Africa and Canary Islands.

Keywords: La Palma, Iberian-Guanche, Latin, Inscriptions, Iberian, Celts, Sahara, Africa, Garafia, Santo Domingo, Canary Islands, Lybic British, Brittons, Basque, Irish, Lybic Canarian, Palmeses, Benahoaritas, Awaritas, Tricias, Prehistory, Guache, Tartessian.
Unequal yoke: The paradox of religious slavery
Authors: Chineyemba Lydia Isioma
Published: January 2021

Slavery is a historical reality of most societies in Africa. Lately, there has been an outcry on the resurgence of slavery with modern trends that include religious slavery which has become the fad of many clergies, who utilize their privileged positions, capitalizing on the gullibility and desperation of members to exploit them in the bourgeoisie/proletariat form of relationship. Ironically, Christianity is a redemptive tool for the emancipation of mankind, yet, it has been used to entrap adherents in the bondage it purports to liberate from. Studies have paid greater attention to other forms of modern slavery, like child trafficking, forced labour, and forced marriage, but the paradox of religious slavery in Nigeria is a dialectical contradiction that requires anthropological inquiry. This paper examined the role of the clergy in perpetuating slavery to uncover the motive(s) underlying the act and its implications for society. Marxist's perspectives on religion and fetishism of commodity, elaborated by Taussig (1980) provide theoretical explanations. The study revealed that pastors use intimidating prophecies and scaring messages to enslave adherents to obtain material/financial benefits from them. It poises that such engagement negates societal expectations of pastors as advocates of morality and custodians of trust and urge them to desist from it.

Keywords: Religion, Slavery, Dialectics, Paradox, Clergy.
Effects of Hibiscus rosa-sinensis leaf as binder in the diet of Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings
Authors: Oke Israel Opeyemi , Adeparusi Eunice Oluwayemisi , Dada Adekunle Ayokanmi
Published: January 2021

The experiment was conducted to assess the effects Hibiscus rosa-sinensis leaf as a binder in fish feed. Six iso-nitrogenous diets containing 35% crude protein was formulated and pelleted. There were significant differences (P<0.05) in the thickness strength (mm), hardness (mm) and water stability (%) of the diets. Diet MWH had the highest water stability (89.26±0.12%) and the lowest was diet MAH (83.53±0.05). diet MAH had the highest water absorption index of 1.70±0.00 and the lowest was diet MWH with 0.74±0.01. There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the sinking rate (cmsec-1), and bulk density (gcm-3) of diets. Protein retention ranged from 91.07 % (WHH) to 95.83 % (MAI), lipid retention was between 90.87% in MWH and 94.74 %. Friability was highest in diet MWH (0.88±0.00 %) and the least was MAI (0.68±0.00 %). There was no significant difference (P>0.05) in the FCR, FER, mean feed intake and percentage survival of fish fed experimental diets. There were significant differences (P>0.05) in the crude protein, fat, and ash contents of experimental fish after the feeding trial. Fish fed diet WHH had the highest whole body crude protein content (50.98±0.06) and the least fat content (16.75±0.51). The result shows that H. rosa-sinensis leaf can be used as binders.

Keywords: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Binder, physical properties, growth parameters
Biodegradation Potential of Abattoir Wastewater Microbiota in Nigeria
Authors: Bala J.D , Kuta F. A , Adabara N.U , Abioye O.P , Auta H.S , Gumel S.
Published: January 2021

Water used for washing carcasses of slaughtered animals and slaughter house is referred to as abattoir wastewater. This study was designed to investigate the microorganisms associated with abattoir wastewater and to establish the biodegradation potential of abattoir wastewater microbiota. Isolation of the microbes was carried out using pour plate technique. The total viable count for the microbes’ ranges from 2.5×104 - 4.6×105 cfu/mL. Results revealed that all the physicochemical parameters exceeded the permissible limits (total dissolved solid (TDS) 1748mg/L, total suspended solid (TSS) 176mg/L, biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5) 91 mg/L and chemical oxygen demand (COD) 227 mg/L). Microorganisms isolated include Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus anthracis, Aspergillus niger, A. flavus, Mucor sp, Trichophyton quickeanum and Penicillium sp. Some of the microbes were observed to have biodegradation potential by their ability to grow on mineral salt media (MSM) incorporated with starch, cellulose, crude oil, kerosene and diesel as the sole source of carbon and energy. This study suggests that abattoir wastewater harbors microorganisms that could be hazardous to public health when discharged into the environment untreated hence the need for strict monitoring. These microbes isolated could be employed as agent of bioremediation of wastewaters.

Key words: Abattoir; Biodegredation; Isolation; Microbiota; Wastewater
Climate-smart agricultural practice usage and profitability of dry season leafy vegetable farmers in some selected LGAs in Kwara State
Authors: Olagherea Ivie L. , Osasona Kehinde K. , Issa Latifah J.
Published: January 2021

This paper sought to assess the CSAP used among dry season leafy vegetable farmers, estimate the profitability, and identifythe constraints faced in the usage of CSAP. Data were collected from 120 randomly selected farmers. Descriptive statistics,net profit analysis, and Likert-type scale were used for data analyses. Crop rotation was the most prevalent practice while,terracing was the least used. The farmers spent almost half of their gross receipts from leafy vegetable production asoperating expenses while yet still guaranteed to get 83 kobo on every one naira invested. The absence of conservative watermanagement practices was the most severe constraint among the farmers. The study concluded that all the respondents usedat least one CSAP and leafy vegetable production was profitable. It was recommended that the usage of CSAP could beincreased among the farmers by motivating farmer trainers to train more groups and support the farmers with improvedseeds and other necessary resources.

Keywords: climate change, constraints, leafy vegetables, mitigation strategies, return to capital invested
Effect of fillers on mechanical properties of recycled low density polyethylene composites under weathered condition
Authors: Idowu Ibiyemi A. , Ilori Olutosin O.
Published: January 2021

The study examined the effect of fillers on the mechanical properties of the recycled low density polyethylene composites under weathered condition with a view of managing the generation and disposal of plastic wastes. Discarded pure water sachets and fillers (glass and talc) were sourced and recycled. Recycled low density polyethylene (RLDPE) and preparation of RLDPE/glass, RLDPE/talc and RLDPE/glass/talc composites were carried out using a furnace at compositions of 0 – 40% in steps of 10% by weight. The mixtures were poured into hand-laid mould. The samples produced were exposed to sunlight for eight (8) weeks and their mechanical properties were studied. The results of mechanical tests revealed that tensile strength decreased with increasing filler loading while impact strength and hardness property increased marginally and considerably with increasing filler loading for all the composites respectively. The study concluded that glass and talc were able to reinforce recycled low density polyethylene under weathered condition.

Keywords: Recycled Low Density Polyethylene (RLDPE); Fillers; Glass, Talc; Weathering condition; Sunlight; and Mechanical properties; Tensile strength, Impact and hardness
Heavy metal residue in some vegetables and potential health risk assessment among consumers within Katsina North Western Nigeria
Authors: Usman L.U , Yerima R.
Published: January 2021

Ingestion of vegetables containing heavy metal is one of the main ways in which these elements enter the human body. Once entered, heavy metals are deposited in bone and fat tissues, overlapping noble minerals. Slowly released into the body, heavy metals can cause an array of diseases. This study aimed to assess the heavy metals residues in some vegetables and potential health risk among consumers within Katsina Metropolis. Six different vegetable samples comprising of cucumber (Cucumis sativus), cabbage (Brassica oleracea), lettuce (Lactuca sativa), spinach (Spinacia oleracea), red pepper (Piper nigrum) and tomato (Lycopersicum esculentus) were randomly collected from two main irrigation farmland located in Katsina Metropolis (Kofar sauri and Kofar marusa). Their level of toxic metals namely (Copper, Zinc, Cadmium, Chromium and Lead) were assessed using standard materials and methods. Results obtained were used to estimate the health risk of these heavy metals via consumption of the vegetable samples. The results from the study showed that the mean heavy metal concentration ranged between 1.10±0.00 mg/kg to 4.45±0.16 mg/kg, 1.78±0.07 mg/kg to 4.9±0.11 mg/kg, 0.02±0.00 mg/kg to 1.28±0.02 mg/kg, 1.51±0.02 mg/kg to 4.34±0.02 mg/kg and 1.05±0.01 mg/kg to 2.86±0.02 mg/kg for Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, and Pb respectively. The concentration of Cu and Zn were found to be below permissible limit while Cd, Cr and Pb concentration exceeded the permissible limit recommended by WHO/FAO. Health risks associated with the intake of these metals were evaluated in terms of estimated daily intake (EDI), hazard quotient (HQ) and hazard index (HI). EDI value of Cu and Zn were found to be below the maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI). The HQ of all the metals were >1, suggesting health hazards risk for the population. Moreover, HQ of Cd and Pb were greatly higher through consumption of cucumber, cabbage, lettuce and red pepper indicating significant health risks. HI was found to be higher >1 (3.32 mg/kg and 3.91 mg/kg) in adult and children respectively for consumption of spinach; however, it was much higher >1 (10.49 mg/kg and 12.4 mg/kg) in adult and children respectively for consumption of cabbage, suggesting more adverse health effects from cabbage consumption than spinach. The findings of this study shows the health risks associated with the consumption of heavy metals through the intake of some the selected vegetables within Katsina Metropolis, therefore, there is need for biomonitoring of these heavy metals in the vegetable because these are some of the main sources of food for humans in many parts of the world.

Keywords: Heavy metal, Estimated Daily Intake, Hazard Quotient, Hazard Index, Consumption
Seroprevalence of Dirofilaria in dogs in Kaduna and Zaria metropolises, Kaduna State, Nigeria.
Authors: Oluyinka Fasanya , Kabir O.A , Natala A. J
Published: January 2021

Dirofilaria is the parasite known to cause filariasis in animals and humans transmitted by mosquitoes. The study was aimed at determining the prevalence of dirofilaria dogs attending government based Veterinary clinics and at slaughters in Kaduna metropolis and Zaria. The diagnosis was based on the use of the Knotts techniques. Blood was collected from 30 animals each from 6 government based veterinary clinics and 45 each from 2 slaughter slabs in Kaduna metropolis and 90 from 1 slaughter slab in Zaria giving a total of 360 animals sampled from the period of October 2016- April 2017. At each collection unit, the animals were selected using systemic random sampling and the blood samples were examined using the Knotts technique. The results revealed a prevalence of 1.1% (4/360) dogs positive for blood dirofilaria parasite. This report on the status of dirofilaria infection in dogs in Kaduna and Zaria metropolis, Kaduna state suggests that dogs there is a decline in the incidence of the disease among dogs in the state.

Key words: Seroprevalence, Dirofilaria, dogs, metropolis
Socio-Demographic Determinants of Diarrhoeal Diseases among Under Five Years Old Children in Rwanda
Authors: Gasurira Sylvestre , Bikorimana Emmanuel , Niyitegeka Charité , Nyandwi Theogene
Published: January 2021

Background

Diarrhoeal disease is a worldwide public health issue and remains a major cause of mortality and morbidity in children under five years old. Low and middle income countries (LMIC) of Africa and part of Asia are more affected by diarrhoeal diseases.

Objectives

To measure the prevalence of Diarrhoeal Diseases and to assess Socio-demographic determinants among Under Five Years Old Children in Rwanda.

Methods

A cross-sectional design was used. Secondary data analysis was carried out on a sample of 7474 drawn from Rwanda Demographic and Health Survey (RDHS). RDHS used multistage sampling technique.

Results

After running multiple logistic regression, Sociodemographic determinants associated with diarrhoeal included age of children, wealth index category, mother education, husband/partner education, types of place of residence (P-Value<0.05).

Conclusion

The results of the study showed that diarrhoeal remains an important health issue in Rwanda. Occurrence of diarrhoeal was statistically associated with child age, wealth index, education of parents, types of place of residence.

Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2020;3(3):328-341