bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A study on the global burden of non-melanoma skin cancer from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Si Zixiang , Ying Jieya , Zhou Yingli
Published: April 2024

Introduction

This study aims to provide an overview and analysis of the global disease burden of non-melanoma skin cancer using data from the GBD 2019 database.

Material and methods

This study utilized the global GBD 2019 disease data. The data was categorized into various subgroups based on region, socio-demographic index (SDI), country, gender, and age. We analyzed Incidence Cases, Incidence Rate, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), DALY Rate, as well as age-standardized indicators and their annualized percent change (EAPC).

Results

The global burden of non-melanoma skin cancer exhibited an increasing trend from 1990 to 2019. The EAPC for age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) was 1.13, and the EAPC for age-standardized DALY rate was 0.20. Geographic variations were observed, with the most substantial increase in ASIR observed in High-income North America (EAPC: 2.20), and a significant increase in age-standardized DALY rate in Central Asia (EAPC: 2.32). Countries with high SDI had the highest ASIR and showed the most significant increasing trend (EAPC: 1.97). Overall, the burden of disease for non-melanoma skin cancer increased in all countries globally from 1990 to 2019. The EAPC for incidence cases, DALYs, and ASIR was greater than 0 in almost all countries worldwide, indicating an overall increasing trend.

Conclusions

The global disease burden of non-melanoma skin cancer exhibited significant increasing changes from 1990 to 2019. Several countries in Asia, Africa, and North America experienced a severe disease burden.
Progress and Prospects of Elastography Techniques in the evaluation of fibrosis in chronic liver disease
Authors: Wang Yang , Yang Xiaohuan , Wang Sisi
Published: April 2024

The precise assessment of liver fibrosis degree is imperative for monitoring and managing chronic liver diseases. Traditionally, liver biopsy and quantitative blood biomarkers have been the mainstays for fibrosis assessment, albeit each with its inherent limitations. However, the emergence of elastography presents a promising non-invasive alternative, potentially supplanting or complementing traditional biomarkers. In contrast to conventional biomarkers, elastography offers several advantages. Firstly, it is non-invasive, sidestepping the risks and discomfort associated with liver biopsy. Secondly, this technique provides real-time and intuitive fibrosis assessments, characterized by user-friendly operation and high reproducibility. Thirdly, elastography excels in diagnosing moderate to severe fibrosis, vital for determining treatment strategies and monitoring disease progression. Notably, MRE stands out as the most accurate non-invasive method for fibrosis assessment, especially suitable for advanced fibrotic stages. This article provides an overview of the advancements in elastography as a viable quantitative biomarker for chronic liver disease fibrosis burden.
Exosomal miR-182-5p from breast cancer cells reprogram tumor-associated macrophages and promotes TNBC progression by targeting Notch1 in macrophages
Authors: Li Hongtao , Fan Jingjing Fan , Ma Jing , Qiao Lei , Sha Tong , Ma Binlin
Published: April 2024

Introduction

The regulatory role of miR-182 in breast cancer malignancy and macrophage reprogramming is well-established. However, the mechanisms through which miR-182 overexpression in tumor cells influences macrophage polarization remain elusive.

Material and methods

After transfection with miR-182-5p mimics, inhibitors, and controls for 24 hours, exosomes were extracted by differential centrifugation from transfected MDA-MB-231. Macrophages co-cultured with these exosomes to illustrate the regulative effects of exo-miR-182-5p reprogram macrophage. Furthermore, breast cancer cells co-cultured with exo-miR-182-5p reprogrammed M2 macrophages to demonstrate the effects of reprogrammed M2 macrophages to influence breast cancer progression. After all, these findings were validated in cell derived xenograft (CDX) BALB/C nude-mice model.

Results

In this study, we demonstrate that exosome-derived miR-182-5p from TNBC cells reprograms M2 macrophage polarization through direct combined with Notch1, thereby enhancing breast cancer progression in vitro and in vivo. When co-cultured with exosomes from TNBC cells transfected with miR-182-5p mimics or inhibitors, macrophages showed altered Notch1/Hes1 pathway expression, leading to M2 polarization and subsequent changes in reactive oxygen species (ROS), inflammation, and other biochemical markers. Furthermore, breast cancer cells co-cultured with exosomes reprogrammed macrophages exhibited increased colony formation, migration, and invasion, as well as reduced apoptosis. These findings were validated in a BALB/C nude-mice model.

Conclusions

This study pioneers the elucidation of the feedback loop mechanism between breast cancer cells and macrophages mediated by the exosome-derived miR-182-5p/Notch1 pathway, highlighting its role in macrophage reprogramming. Although the therapeutic application of miR-182-5p inhibitors as anticancer agents remains in the early stages, targeting macrophage polarization represents a promising avenue for breast cancer therapy.
Perceived Learning Management System Effectiveness, Teacher’s Self-Efficacy, and Work Engagement: Groundwork for an Upskilling Plan
Authors: Inoncillo Frederick A.
Published: April 2024

This study explored the perceived effectiveness of the Learning Management System (LMS), self-efficacy, and work engagement. The researcher made use of descriptive-quantitative design with questionnaire as the main instrument of gathering the data. A total of. 107 faculty teachers from three Higher Education Institutions in the Philippines that are using Canvas LMS were chosen through convenience sampling. Online questionnaires were used to collect data, and descriptive statistics were employed to analyze demographic information. Based on the results, teachers reported high levels of perceived LMS effectiveness, teachers’ self- efficacy, and work engagement. Significant differences were found in perceived LMS effectiveness based on gender, with males ranking higher than females. Differences were also observed across age groups and the duration of LMS usage. Correlational analysis indicated positive relationships between perceived LMS effectiveness, teachers’ self-efficacy, and work engagement. Through regression analysis, it was revealed that teachers’ self- efficacy significantly predicted perceived LMS effectiveness, and the combined effect of perceived LMS effectiveness and teachers’ self- efficacy significantly predicted work engagement. Moreover, teachers suggested vast areas for upskilling in terms of LMS features, Assessment, Professional Networks, and Support and Instructions. The study identified areas of concerns in the dimensions of perceived LMS effectiveness, teacher’s self-efficacy, and work engagement that served as the bases for recommended faculty upskilling plan for online and hybrid instructions.
Electromagnetic Waves, Light and Information
Authors: Stevanovic Jelenka Savkovic
Published: April 2024

In this paper electromagnetic waves and visible light were examined. Information and communication technology were studied. Electromagnetic radiation, quantum energy, photon and electromagnetic waves were considered. The methodology of macroscopic and microscopic approach were used. Discrete energy quantity, photon, and information were employed. In this paper the light spread law was derived, first time in literature. The sun light changeable velocity was defined. Also, equation for information transfer functionalities were developed. These results can be applied in communication.
Physiological Productivity of CABBAGE (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) in Response to Planting Distance and Rate of Nitrogen Application
Authors: Allego Dhayan L , Gonzaga Apolinario B Jr.
Published: April 2024

Cabbage is one of the most important vegetables in the world, known for being a heavy nutrient feeder crop, especially nitrogen (N), and is influenced by planting distance, which plays a big role in production to attain a higher yield while producing the best quality cabbage suited to consumers’ preferences. A study aimed to determine the levels of nitrogen and planting distance that influence the growth parameters, yield attributes, and yield of cabbage, as well as the economic efficiency of the treatments. Results show that the yield of cabbage is significantly influenced by planting distances and rate of nitrogen application, wherein 30 cm x 30 cm spacing proved to be the most productive when applied with 150-200 kg N/ha, obtaining the same highest yield in tons per hectare. Moreover, the same treatment combinations influenced other key physiological parameters, e.g., polar and equatorial head sizes and cabbage head weight. Economic analysis revealed that planting cabbage at a closer distance (e.g., 30 cm x 30 cm) with 150 kg/ha N, which will eventually provide more plant population density per area, would lead to a highly profitable venture for cabbage production.
Clinical profile of functional constipation in Saudi children
Authors: El Mouzan Mohammad , Kambal Mohammed , Alabdulkarim Hayfa , Alshammari Nawaf Rahi , Alanazi Rehab , Al Sarkhy Ahmed , Alhamid Nouf , Assiri Asaad Muhammed , Alzahrani Alhanouf , Shaik Shaffi Ahamed , Alasmi Mona
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Functional constipation (FC) is a common condition in children, and information on the clinical characteristics of FC in Saudi children is scarce.

OBJECTIVE:

Describe the clinical profile of FC in Saudi children.

DESIGN:

Retrospective

SETTING:

Hospital that provides primary, intermediate and tertiary care.

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

All children diagnosed with FC according to the Rome IV criteria were included and had at least one follow-up clinic visit. Demographic and clinical data collected from medical records included the age at onset, duration of constipation, clinical features, treatment modalities, and factors associated with clinical response. Descriptive statistics and Pearson's chi-squared test were used in the statistical analysis to see how categorical study variables were linked to clinical response. A P value of ≤.05 was used to report statistical significance.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE:

Compliance and clinical response to polyethylene glycol (PEG) compared with lactulose.

SAMPLE SIZE:

370 children from 0.1 to 13 years of age.

RESULTS:

The median (IQR) age of onset was 4 (5) years and less than one year in 14%. The median (IQR) duration of constipation was 4 months (11) and less than two months in 93/370 (25%). Abdominal pain was the most commonly associated feature (44%). Screening for celiac disease and hypothyroidism was negative. A Fleet enema was the most common disimpaction method (54%) and PEG was the most common maintenance medication (63.4%). PEG was significantly better tolerated (
P
=.0008) and more effective than lactulose (
P
<.0001). Compliance was the only variable significantly associated with clinical response.

CONCLUSIONS:

PEG was better tolerated and more effective than lactulose in our study, a finding in agreement with the literature. Therefore, PEG should be the drug of choice in the initial management of FC in Saudi children. Prospective studies on the causes of noncompliance are needed to improve the response to treatment.

LIMITATIONS:

The limitations of retrospective design are missing data, recall bias, and hospital-based limitation, such as missing milder cases treated at the outpatient level. However, the sample size of 370 may have minimized these limitations.
Predicting COVID-19 outcomes with the Edmonton Obesity Staging System
Authors: Ali Sajjad , Khan Omar Sufyan , Youssef Amira M. , Saba Iram , Alqahtani Leena , Alduhaim Renad Abdulaziz , Almesned Renad
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Multiple studies have demonstrated a correlation between a high body mass index and discriminatory COVID-19 outcomes. Studies appear to indicate that there is a correlation between obesity-related comorbidities and less favorable outcomes.

OBJECTIVES:

The primary aim of the current investigation is to conduct a thorough assessment of the correlation between BMI and comorbidities associated with obesity, and their potential impact on the severity and consequences of COVID-19 infection among patients receiving care in a tertiary healthcare setting.

DESIGN:

Retrospective cohort

SETTINGS:

Tertiary rehabilitation center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

The study included all individuals who received medical treatment and tested positive for COVID-19 by means of RT-PCR during the period from March to September 2020. COVID-19 patients were classified using Edmonton Obesity Staging System (EOSS).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

COVID-19-related complications, including pneumonia and cytokine release syndrome, as well as the time length to COVID-19 negativization.

SAMPLE SIZE:

315 patients

RESULTS:

The median (25th–75th percentiles) age of the patients was 38 (31.5-49) years old. Males outnumbered females, and 66% of patients were non-Saudis. Forty-eight patients (15.2%) had obesity class I, whereas 13 patients (4.1%) had class II. Thirty-two patients (10.2%) were classified as EOSS stage 1, 105 patients (33.3%) were classified as EOSS stage 2, and 25 patients (7.9%) were assigned to EOSS stage 3. Males predominated in EOSS stages 1 and 2, whereas females predominated in stage 3. In EOSS stage 3, 52% of cases had moderate severity and 48% had severe illness.

CONCLUSIONS:

EOSS distinguishes the COVID-19 risks of poor outcomes beyond BMI. Patients who were overweight or obese but remained in the stage 1 of the EOSS had a lower risk of a poor COVID-19 outome than normal-weight patients. The health status of obese patients is a more precise indicator of the progression of COVID-19 during hospitalization than BMI alone.

LIMITATIONS:

Given the limited capacity of urgent care facilities to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of comorbidities and other relevant outcomes in all patients, it is plausible that certain patients may have been erroneously classified with an EOSS stage 2 diagnosis, when in fact they ought to have been assigned a stage 3 diagnosis.
Microorganism diversity and contamination risk in mosque rosaries and carpets
Authors: Özdemir Metin , Karat Erhan , Savci Ünsal , Isler Hacer
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Inevitably, the floors of mosques are contaminated with microorganisms, and the risk of pathogen transmission is probably high between the many visitors, but the issue has been infrequently studied.

OBJECTIVES:

Investigate microorganism variety and risk of contamination on commonly used carpets and rosaries (prayer beads).

DESIGN:

Cross-sectional

SETTINGS:

Mosques

METHODS:

This study was carried out in three different cities of Turkey in 2023, focusing on mosques located around hospitals. Forty mosques were included in the study and from each mosque 10 samples were collected from various parts of carpets and rosaries. The number of positive culture isolates were identified.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Diversity and distribution of microorganisms isolated from mosque carpets and rosaries; methicillin-resistance rates in
Staphylococci
.

SAMPLE SIZE:

400 samples

RESULTS:

Growth was observed in 368 (92%) of 400 samples examined. The microorganisms isolated in the highest number were methicillin-susceptible coagulase negative
Staphylococci
(MSCoNS) (59.8%),
Microcooccus
(41%) and diphtheroids (31.3%). The rates of total growth (
P
=.001), including diphtheroids (
P
=.018), methicillin-resistant coagulase negative
Staphylococci
(P=.001),
Bacillus spp.
(
P
=.036) and
Aspergillus spp.
(
P
=.002) rates were significantly higher in the rosary samples than carpet samples. At mosques in Tokat, a province center, 4 samples were positive for
Acinetobacter baumannii
, two samples were positive for
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and one sample for methicillin-resistant
Staphylococcus aureus
(MRSA), and these were isolated from rosaries. 0.3% of
Staphylococcus
isolates were MRSA.

CONCLUSION:

As there is a high risk of contamination of carpets and prayer beads on the mosque floor with human flora, the use of appropriate hygiene practices is necessary. We also found some emerging bacteria in addition to the normal human flora.

LIMITATIONS:

Our study was conducted in three provinces. Further studies might cover a wider geography.
The variation in preventable hospitalization in patients with type 2 diabetes in Kentucky before and after the Medicaid expansion
Authors: Arbaein Turky , Little Bert , Monshi Sarah , Al-Wathinani Ahmed M. , Zaidan Amal
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hospitalizations are more resource intensive and expensive than outpatient care. Therefore, type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization are a major topic of research efficiency in the healthcare system.

OBJECTIVES:

Analyze county level variation in type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization rates in Kentucky before the Medicaid expansion (2010-2013) and after the Medicaid expansion (2014-2017).

DESIGN:

Geographic mapping and cluster analysis

SETTING:

Data for a state of the United States of America

METHODS:

We used the KID data to generate geographic mapping for type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalizations to visualize rates. We included all Kentucky discharges of age 18 years and older with the ICD9/10 principal diagnosis code for type 2 diabetes. Then, we conducted cluster analysis techniques to compare county-level variation in type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization rates across Kentucky counties pre- and post-Medicaid expansion.

MAIN OUTCOME AND MEASURES:

County type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization pre- and post-Medicaid expansion.

RESULTS:

From 2010-2017, type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization discharge rates reduced significantly in the period of the post-Medicaid expansion (
P
=.001). The spatial statistics analysis revealed a significant spatial clustering of counties with similar rates of type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization in the south, east, and southeastern Kentucky pre- and post-Medicaid expansion (positive z-score and positive Moran's Index value (
P
>.05). Also, there was a significant clustering of counties with low type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization rates in the north, west, and central regions of the state pre-Medicaid expansion and post-Medicaid expansion (positive z-score and positive Moran's Index value (
P
>.05).

CONCLUSION:

Kentucky counties in the southeast have experienced a significant clustering of highly avoidable hospitalization rates during both periods. Focusing on the vulnerable counties and the economic inequality in Kentucky could lead to efforts to lowering future type 2 diabetes-related preventable hospitalization rates.

LIMITATIONS:

We used de-identified data which does not provide insights into the frequency of hospitalizations per patient. An individual patient may be hospitalized several times and counted as several individuals.
Does red blood cell transfusion affect clinical outcomes in critically ill patients? A report from a large teaching hospital in south Iran
Authors: Naderi-Boldaji Vida , Zand Farid , Asmarian Naeimehossadat , Banifatemi Mahsa , Masjedi Mansoor , Sabetian Golnar , Ouhadian Maryam , Bayati Najmeh , Saeedizadeh Hamideh , Naderi Nima , Kasraian Leila
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Despite the beneficial effects, RBC transfusion can be associated with infectious and non-infectious complications in critically ill patients.

OBJECTIVES:

Investigate current RBC transfusion practices and their effect on the clinical outcomes of patients in intensive care units (ICUs).

DESIGN:

Retrospective observational study

SETTING:

Three mixed medical-surgical adult ICUs of a large academic tertiary hospital

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

From March 2018 to February 2020, all adult patients admitted to medical or surgical ICU. Patients who received one or more RBC transfusions during the first month of ICU admission were included in the “transfusion” group, while the remaining patients were assigned to the “non-transfusion” group.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Mortality and length of ICU and hospital stay.

SAMPLE SIZE:

2159 patients

RESULTS:

Of 594 patients who recieved transfusions, 27% of patients received red blood cell (RBC) products. The mean pre-transfusion hemoglobin (Hb) level was 8.05 (1.46) g/dL. There was a significant relationship between higher APACHE II scores and ICU mortality in patients with Hb levels of 7–9 g/dL (OR adjusted=1.05). Also, ICU mortality was associated with age (OR adjusted=1.03), APACHE II score (OR adjusted=1.08), and RBC transfusion (OR adjusted=2.01) in those whose Hb levels were >9 (g/dL).

CONCLUSION:

RBC transfusion was associated with an approximately doubled risk of ICU mortality in patients with Hb>9 g/dL. High APACHE II score and age increase the chance of death in the ICU by 8% and 3%, respectively. Hence, ICU physicians should consider a lower Hb threshold for RBC transfusion, and efforts must be made to optimize RBC transfusion practices.

LIMITATIONS:

Single-center and retrospective study.
Improved long-term survival rate in the responders to bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, dexamethasone induction therapy in a transplant-eligible cohort of predominantly middle-age multiple myeloma patients
Authors: Abdrabou Ahmed Kotb , Al Sharif Fahad , El Fakih Riad , Zahrani Hazaa Al , Al Yamany Ruah , Saleh Mostafa , Alhayli Saud , Al Somali Zakia , Alotaibi Ahmad , AlShaibani AlFadel , Deeba Farah , Asif Maryam , Ahmed Syed Ahmed Osman Ali , Al Fraih Feras , Shaheen Marwan , Alahmari Ali , Rasheed Walid , Chaudhri Naeem Arshad , Al Mohareb Fahad , Aljurf Mahmoud , Hanbali Amr
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND:

Multiple myeloma (MM) represents the second most common hematologic malignancy (15%). Induction with bortezomib, cyclophosphamide, and dexamthasone VCd (d: low dose dexamthasone) regimen is widely used due to its high effectiveness, low toxicity and good tolerability, particularly with renal impairment. Real-world data on the use of VCD in clinical practice is lacking.

OBJECTIVES:

Evaluate the real-world experience of the VCD regimen

DESIGN:

Retrospective

SETTING:

Tumor registry database of tertiary cancer care center

PATIENTS AND METHODS:

Newly diagnosed MM patients who received VCD induction and underwent autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) from July 2007 to July 2020

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES:

Response evaluation, progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS).

SAMPLE SIZE:

87 patients

RESULTS:

Of 102 patients who started induction with VCd, 87 patients experienced a partial response or more overall response rate of 85%). The median age of these 87 patients at diagnosis was 52 years, of which 29.9% presented with renal impairment and 60.3% of patients had stage 2 by the Revised International Staging System (R-ISS). Patients with a standard cytogenetic risk achieved a better response compared to those with a poor cytogenetic risk (
P
=.044). The post-induction response rates were 6.9% stringent complete remission (sCR), 35% complete remission (CR); 41.4% very good partial response (VGPR), and 16.1% partial response (PR), respectively; the response rates became greater for sCR and CR post-transplantation at day 100 with 16.1% sCR, 35.6% CR, 32.2% VGPR and 16.1% PR, respectively. The median PFS was 49 months and 5 years OS was 84%. PFS was better in patients who achieved sCR vs PR (83 vs 35 months,
P
=.037). High LDH, high-risk cytogenetic and stage 3 R-ISS showed a worse median PFS and OS.

CONCLUSIONS:

VCD induction in newly diagnosed MM is highly effective, convenient, tolerable and affordable regimen, especially in low and middle-income countries with limited resources, also with favorable outcomes and survival. while those who did not respond successfully shifted to VRD or VTD.

LIMITATIONS:

The usual limitations of a retrospective analysis using registry-level data, no data on quality of life.
Socio-Economic Characteristics and Livelihood Outcomes: Empirical Evidence of Farmers Organisation in Tubah Sub Division, Cameroon.
Authors: Kibebsii Nyamka Milton , Angwafo Tsi Evarestus , Egwu Bime Mary Juliet , Ntangti Chiatoh Fabian
Published: April 2024

The lack of farmer contributions to agricultural production in Cameroon, as in most developing countries, has prompted farmers to seek different options to ensure household food security and maximize farm income. Therefore, in trying to find models for survival and the pursuit of growth, farmers draw their resources from all available places, through both formal and informal farming systems by doing so; they can no longer keep pace with agricultural production thus affecting their livelihood. This study specifically identified the socio-economic characteristics of farmer organizations and its effect on their livelihood. The data was elicited via survey questionnaire administered on the sample of 114 registered and 88 unregistered farmer organizations, which comprised of common initiative groups and cooperatives giving a total sample of 202. Using cluster-sampling approach, proximity villages were grouped into four clusters of villages and purposive sampling was used to selected members of the organisations to participate in the study. The objective of the study was achieved using ordinary least square regression estimation techniques. The result revealed that socio-economic characteristic of farmers has a negative significant effect on the livelihood of farmers’ organization due to inadequate capital, low level of education, inadequate farming experience, inadequate income, inadequate farm size and the type of technology used for farming. Based on the finding this study recommends that the government should organize training programs, seminars, subsidize farm inputs, grant agricultural loans to farmers, initiate, and support mechanized agriculture to boast the agricultural sector hence improve the livelihood of farmers organisations.
Nutrients Uptake and Fruit Yield of Tomato (Lycopersicon Esculentum Mill.) Produced Using Home Sorted and Municipal Organic Materials as Nutrient Sources.
Authors: Onaolapo Musiliat Mopelola , Adejuyigbe Christopher Olu. , Olowokere Florence Alaba , Oyekanmi Akeem Abdulai
Published: April 2024

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) is one of the most popular crops with a unique role in human diets especially in Nigeria. Nutritional quality of fruit is a reflection of uptake by the plant. The study investigated the uptake of Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium, Calcium and Magnesium uptake by tomato with incorporation of home and municipal sorted solid waste. Screenhouse experiment was carried out at the College of Plant Science and Crop Production, while field experiment was conducted at the Directorate of University Farms, Federal University of Agriculture (Latitudes 7°13ʹN and 7°20ʹN and Longitudes 3°20ʹE and 3°28ʹE) during the early and late seasons of 2019. Roma VF and Ibadan-local varieties as test crop. The screenhouse experiment was factorial in Completely Randomized Design. The treatments were: composted municipal solid waste; composted home sorted waste; pyrolyzed municipal solid waste and pyrolyzed home sorted waste at the rate of 0, 5, 10 and 20 tha-1 each. The field experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design with incorporation of waste treatments at 10 t ha-1, all in three replicates. The treatments mentioned above for screenhouse were also used for field experiment. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance and the means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (p<0.05). The study was carried out in the wet and dry seasons. Nutrients (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) uptakes by plants were determined after laboratory analysis using nutrient concentration x dry matter (kg ha-1). Treatments had significant effects on the fruit yield of tomato. Composted home sorted waste at 5 t ha-1 resulted in highest uptake of nitrogen (5.32 mg kg-1), phosphorus (2.87 mg kg-1), potassium (26.10 mg kg-1) and magnesium (9.74 mg kg-1) in screenhouse compared with control and other treatments. Pyrolyzed wastes enhanced the fruit yield and nutrient uptake by plant relative to composted wastes in both seasons on the field. Pyrolyzed home sorted waste (PHSW) enhanced nitrogen uptake at early (186 kg ha-1) and late (108 kg ha-1) seasons. Pyrolyzed wastes (PHSW and PMSW) increased phosphorus uptake of 573 kg ha-1 and 507 kg ha-1 respectively in the early season while the highest phosphorus uptake of 339.6 kg ha-1 was observed with PHSW in the late season. Pyrolyzed municipal solid waste (PMSW) increased potassium uptake in both early (22.21 kg ha-1) and late (12.55 kg ha-1) seasons compared to control and other treatments applied. It was concluded that composted and pyrolyzed home sorted wastes improved the fruit yield and nutrient uptake in organic tomato production, and thus recommended for optimal production of tomato.
Molecular Identification of Trichophyton Rubrum Onychomycosis at Health Centres in Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Tyona Magdalene N. , Gberikon Grace M. , Sar Terdzungwe T.
Published: April 2024

The molecular properties of Trichophyton rubrum associated with onychomycosis in adults attending selected tertiary and secondary health facilities in Benue State, Nigeria were investigated. The prevalence of onychomycosis, co-morbidities, onychomycosis related health histories, and infecting strains of Trichophyton rubrum were considered. Due ethical clearance was obtained, and informed consent granted by participants. The research employed purposive random sampling technique. Three hundred and eighty-four (384) adults aged 18 years and above, with visible symptoms of onychomycosis were recruited. Nail samples were collected, disinfected and examined. Sabouraud Dextrose Agar (SDA) was used for fungal cultures. Laboratory procedures included microscopy and morphological characterization of isolates. Toenails were more infected 210 (68.48%) than fingernails 8 (18.18%). The fungal species with the highest frequency of occurrence was T. rubrum 159 (70.36%), while the least was Candida spp. 19 (8. 49%). Allele-Specific Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) revealed new sub-repeat elements in the non-transcribed region of the rDNA spacer of T. rubrum. The study has documented onychomycosis prevalence rates and helped provide insight into the infecting species in Benue State. This will help develop appropriate treatment and intervention guidelines. Further and advanced molecular typing methods for enhanced understanding of infecting fungal strains is recommended.
Lettuce Response to Enhanced Struvite Recovered from Faecal Sludge Effluent and the Probabilistic Health Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals Through the Intake of the Lettuce.
Authors: Enyemadze Isaac , Kwarteng Sampson Oduro , Essandoh Helen , Momade Francis W. Y. , Gaveh Eli A. , Asamoah Benson K.
Published: April 2024

Precipitating magnesium ammonium phosphate (MAP) to include potassium (K) has been explored to improve the fertilizing ability of the product. The present study aims to precipitate a MAP that also contains K and determine the probable risk to human health through the daily consumption of lettuce cultivated with the enhanced struvite. Analysis of the precipitate revealed that adding cocoa bean husk as seed produced MAP with potassium (K) content. The concentration of the heavy metals in the fresh leaves (concentration range, safe limits in mg/kg) was Cu (6.14 – 12.13, 73.3), Cd (0.11 – 0.43, 0.2), Ni (0.44 – 0.85, 67.9), Pb (0.85 – 1.38, 0.3). The estimated daily intake of heavy metals via the consumption of lettuce grown with struvite was below the tolerable upper dietary intake levels. The 95th percentile of the hazard index for the control, NPK and struvite are 0.047, 0.605, (0.214 – 0.759) respectively. The struvite produced can significantly improve its performance as an alternate phosphorus fertilizer and also show if struvite is safe for use as a fertilizer.
THE INFLUENCE OF EXTERNAL ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS ON THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE HUMAN RESOURCE INFORMATION SYSTEM IN GHANA. AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN THE UPPER WEST REGION MMDA’S
Authors: Yahaya Haleem  , E.M George Ditsa
Published: April 2024

The study examines the relationship between the external factors (government policy, external support and competitive pressure) and the implementation of the HRIS (acceptance and effectiveness). The study assessed the level of acceptability of each variable in the study. The study was a quantitative study which centers on question-based survey. The study used purposive sampling technique and a sample of 187 line managers of the eleven (11) MMDAs in the Upper West Region of Ghana were selected.  The unit of analysis was at the individual level where opinions of the line managers were sought to assess the relationship between the individual characteristics and the implementation the HRIS. The unit of measurement was likert scale. SPSS was used to carry out the analysis of this study. Bivariate correlation was used to establish one-on-one relationship between variables operationalized in this study. The findings revealed that Competitive Pressure and External Support had a moderate level of acceptance whereas Government Policies have a low level of acceptance as factors that affect the implementation of the HRIS. The study revealed that, government policies, external support, competitive pressure had correlation with the acceptance of the HRIS. Lastly, it concluded that government colicies, competitive pressure had correlation with the effectiveness of the HRIS whereas external support had no correlation with the effectiveness of the HRIS. The study recommended Ghana's government to create sound regulations that will facilitate the HRIS adoption and implementation.

Keywords: Human Resource Information System, Environmental Factors, Implementation, Government Policy, External Support, Competitive Advantage, Acceptance, Effectiveness.
Evinacumab (Evkeeza)
Authors: CADTH
Published: April 2024

CADTH reimbursement reviews are comprehensive assessments of the clinical effectiveness and cost-effectiveness, as well as patient and clinician perspectives, of a drug or drug class.

The assessments inform non-binding recommendations that help guide the reimbursement decisions of Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with the exception of Quebec.

This review assesses evinacumab (Evkeeza), 150 mg/mL (345 mg/2.3 mL and 1,200 mg/8 mL) solution in single-dose vials for IV infusion.

Indication: As an adjunct to diet and other low-density lipoprotein cholesterol–lowering therapies for the treatment of adult and pediatric patients aged 5 years and older with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia.
Utilisation of the web-based Home Assessment Tool among patients with COVID-19 in Selangor, Malaysia: An observational study
Authors: Farhani Samat , Roslina Abdul Jalil , Nik Mazlina Mohammad , Noor Hasliza Hassan , Lih Bing Lau , Noorul Amilin Sulaiman , Zienna Zufida Zainol Rashid , Siti Khalimah Rosnan
Published: April 2024

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has caused many countries to turn to web-based solutions. The Home Assessment Tool (HAT) is a web-based system using the MySejahtera application developed by the government. It serves as a communication platform for patients with COVID-19 to self-monitor their clinical symptoms and enables authorised healthcare personnel to access and manage collected data for clinical monitoring. Our study aimed to examine the utilisation of this internet-based tool among patients with COVID-19 in Selangor.
Methods: This observational study analysed secondary data from the self-reported HAT within MySejahtera. It included all patients who were diagnosed with COVID-19 through molecular assays such as RT-PCR or RTK-Ag on 1–21 February 2021, aged ≥18 years and residing in Selangor. Patients who had documented their symptoms at least once in the HAT during the prescribed 10-day isolation period were classified as HAT users.
Results: A total of 4438 patients were included, of whom 39.4% were HAT users, while 60.6% were non-HAT users. Logistic regression analysis revealed three significant factors associated with low utilisation of the HAT: absence of medical condition (odds ratio [OR]: 9.4; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 7.49–12.01), advanced age (OR: 1.35; 95% CI: 1.20–1.52) and non-Malaysian citizenship (OR: 3.4; 95% CI: 2.50–4.72).
Conclusion: The utilisation of the HAT is low, which is associated with advanced age (≥65 years), absence of medical conditions and foreign nationality. It is imperative to develop inventive strategies tailored to address the unique needs of these particular demographics.
Comparing the simulated influence of biomass burning plumes on low-level clouds over the southeastern Atlantic under varying smoke conditions
Authors: Baró Pérez Alejandro , Diamond Michael S. , Bender Frida A.-M. , Devasthale Abhay , Schwarz Matthias , Savre Julien , Tonttila Juha , Kokkola Harri , Lee Hyunho , Painemal David , Ekman Annica M. L.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Biomass burning plumes are frequently transported over the southeast Atlantic (SEA) stratocumulus deck during the southern African fire season (June–October). The plumes bring large amounts of absorbing aerosols and enhanced moisture, which can trigger a rich set of aerosol–cloud–radiation interactions with climatic consequences that are still poorly understood. We use large-eddy simulation (LES) to explore and disentangle the individual impacts of aerosols and moisture on the underlying stratocumulus clouds, the marine boundary layer (MBL) evolution, and the stratocumulus-to-cumulus transition (SCT) for three different meteorological situations over the southeast Atlantic during August 2017. For all three cases, our LES shows that the SCT is driven by increased sea surface temperatures and cloud-top entrainment as the air is advected towards the Equator. In the LES model, aerosol indirect effects, including impacts on drizzle production, have a small influence on the modeled cloud evolution and SCT, even when aerosol concentrations are lowered to background concentrations. In contrast, local semi-direct effects, i.e., aerosol absorption of solar radiation in the MBL, cause a reduction in cloud cover that can lead to a speed-up of the SCT, in particular during the daytime and during broken cloud conditions, especially in highly polluted situations. The largest impact on the radiative budget comes from aerosol impacts on cloud albedo: the plume with absorbing aerosols produces a total average 3 d of simulations. We find that the moisture accompanying the aerosol plume produces an additional cooling effect that is about as large as the total aerosol radiative effect. Overall, there is still a large uncertainty associated with the radiative and cloud evolution effects of biomass burning aerosols. A comparison between different models in a common framework, combined with constraints from in situ observations, could help to reduce the uncertainty.
Quantitative imaging of carbon dioxide plumes using a ground-based shortwave infrared spectral camera
Authors: Knapp Marvin , Kleinschek Ralph , Vardag Sanam N. , Külheim Felix , Haveresch Helge , Sindram Moritz , Siegel Tim , Burger Bruno , Butz André
Published: April 2024

Abstract. We present the first results of a ground-based imaging experiment using a shortwave infrared spectral camera to quantify carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from a coal-fired power plant in Mannheim, Germany. The power plant emits more than 4.9 Mt CO2 yr−1 and is a validation opportunity for the emission estimation technique. The camera is a hyperspectral imaging spectrometer that covers the spectral range from 900 to 2500 nm with a spectral resolution of 7 nm. We identify CO2 enhancements from hourly averaged images using an iterative matched filter retrieval using the 2000 nm absorption band of CO2. We present 11 plume images from 5 d in 2021 and 2022 covering a variety of ambient conditions. We design a forward model based on a three-dimensional, bent-over Gaussian plume rise simulation and compare our observed emission plumes with the forward model. The model depends on the parameters ambient wind velocity, wind direction, plume dispersion, and emission rate. We retrieve the emission rate by minimizing the least-squares difference between the measured and the simulated images. We find an overall reasonable agreement between the retrieved and expected emissions for power plant emission rates between 223 and 587 t CO2 h−1. The retrieved emissions average 84 % of the expected emissions and have a mean relative uncertainty of 24 %. The technique works at wind speeds down to 1.4 m s−1 and can follow diurnal emission dynamics. We also include observations with unfavorable ambient conditions, such as background heterogeneity and acute observation angles. These conditions are shown to produce considerable biases in the retrieved emission rates, yet they can be filtered out reliably in most cases. Thus, this emission estimation technique is a promising tool for independently verifying reported emissions from large point sources and provides complementary information to existing monitoring techniques.
Hailstorm events in the Central Andes of Peru: insights from historical data and radar microphysics
Authors: Valdivia Jairo M. , Flores-Rojas José Luis , Prado Josep J. , Guizado David , Villalobos-Puma Elver , Callañaupa Stephany , Silva-Vidal Yamina
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Hailstorms, while fascinating from a meteorological perspective, pose significant risks to communities, agriculture, and infrastructure. In regions such as the Central Andes of Peru, the characteristics and frequency of these extreme weather events remain largely uncharted. This study fills this gap by investigating the historical frequency and vertical structure of hailstorms in this region. We analyzed historical hailstorm records dating back to 1958 alongside 4 years of observations (2017–2021) from the Parsivel2 disdrometer and a cloud-profiling radar MIRA35c. Our findings indicate a trend of decreasing hail frequency (−0.5 events per decade). However, the p value of 0.07 suggests the need for further investigation, particularly in relation to environmental changes and reporting methods. The results show that hailstorms predominantly occur during the austral summer months, with peak frequency in December, and are most common during the afternoon and early evening hours. The analysis of radar variables such as reflectivity, radial velocity, spectral width, and linear depolarization ratio (LDR) reveals distinct vertical profiles for hail events. Two case studies highlight the diversity in the radar measurements of hailstorms, underscoring the complexity of accurate hail detection. This study suggests the need for refining the Parsivel2 algorithm and further understanding its classification of hydrometeors. Additionally, the limitations of conventional radar variables for hail detection are discussed, recommending the use of LDR and Doppler spectrum analysis for future research. Our findings lay the groundwork for the development of more efficient hail detection algorithms and improved understanding of hailstorms in the Central Andes of Peru.
Greenhouse gas retrievals for the CO2M mission using the FOCAL method: first performance estimates
Authors: Noël Stefan , Buchwitz Michael , Hilker Michael , Reuter Maximilian , Weimer Michael , Bovensmann Heinrich , Burrows John P. , Bösch Hartmut , Lang Ruediger
Published: April 2024

Abstract. The Anthropogenic Carbon Dioxide Monitoring (CO2M) mission is a constellation of satellites currently planned to be launched in 2026. CO2M is planned to be a core component of a Monitoring and Verification Support (MVS) service capacity under development as part of the Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS). The CO2M radiance measurements will be used to retrieve column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of atmospheric carbon dioxide (XCO2), methane (XCH4) and total columns of nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Using appropriate inverse modelling, the atmospheric greenhouse gas (GHG) observations will be used to derive United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) COP 21 Paris Agreement relevant information on GHG sources and sinks. This challenging application requires highly accurate XCO2 and XCH4 retrievals. Three different retrieval algorithms to derive XCO2 and XCH4 are currently under development for the operational processing system at EUMETSAT. One of these algorithms uses the heritage of the FOCAL (Fast atmOspheric traCe gAs retrievaL) method, which has already successfully been applied to measurements from other satellites. Here, we show recent results generated using the CO2M version of FOCAL, called FOCAL-CO2M. To assess the quality of the FOCAL-CO2M retrievals, a large set of representative simulated radiance spectra has been generated using the radiative transfer model SCIATRAN. These simulations consider the planned viewing geometry of the CO2 instrument and corresponding geophysical scene data (including different types of aerosols and varying surface properties), which were taken from model data for the year 2015. We consider instrument noise and systematic errors caused by the retrieval method but have not considered additional error sources due to, for example, instrumental issues, spectroscopy or meteorology. On the other hand, we have also not taken advantage in this study of CO2M's MAP (multi-angle polarimeter) instrument, which will provide additional information on aerosols and cirrus clouds. By application of the FOCAL retrieval to these simulated data, confidence is gained that the FOCAL method is able to fulfil the challenging requirements for systematic errors for the CO2M mission (spatio-temporal bias ≤ 0.5 ppm for XCO2 and ≤ 5 ppb for XCH4).
Assessing the Effectiveness of SO2, NOx, and NH3 Emission Reductions in Mitigating Winter PM2.5 in Taiwan Using CMAQ Model
Authors: Huang Ping-Chieh , Hung Hui-Ming , Lai Hsin-Chih , Chou Charles C.-K.
Published: April 2024

Abstract. Taiwan experiences higher air pollution in winter when particulate matter (PM2.5) levels frequently surpass national standards. This study employs the Community Multiscale Air Quality model to assess the effectiveness of reducing NH3, NOx, and SO2 emissions on PM2.5 secondary inorganic species (i.e., SO­42-, NO3-, and NH4+). For sulfate, ~ 43.7 % is derived from the chemical reactions of local SO2 emission, emphasizing the substantial contribution of regional transported sulfate. In contrast, local NOx and NH3 emissions predominantly influence nitrate and ammonium. Reducing SO2 emissions decreases sulfate, thereby influencing NH3 partitioning and resulting in a decreased ammonium. Similarly, reducing NOx emissions lowers HNO3, impacting nitrate and ammonium concentrations due to changes in HNO3 and NH3 partitioning. A particularly significant finding is that NH3 emissions reduction decreases not only nitrate and ammonium but also sulfate by altering cloud droplet pH and SO2 oxidation processes. While SO2 reduction's PM2.5 impact is less than NOx and NH3, it emphasizes the complexity of regional sensitivities. Most of western Taiwan is NOx-sensitive, so reducing NOx emissions has a more substantial impact on lowering PM2.5. However, given the higher mass emissions of NOx than NH3 in Taiwan, NH3 has a more significant consequence in mitigating PM2.5 per unit mass emission reduction. The cost-effectiveness analysis suggests that NH3 reduction outperforms SO2 and NOx. Nevertheless, cost estimates vary due to methodological differences and regional emission sources. Overall, this study considers both efficiency and costs, highlighting NH3 emissions reduction as a promising strategy for PM2.5 mitigation in the studied Taiwan's environment.