bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Three to Five Rounds of Mass Drug Administration on Schistosomiasis and Soil-Transmitted Helminths in School-Aged Children in North-Central Nigeria
Authors: Griswold Emily , Eigege Abel , Adelamo Solomon , Mancha Bulus , Kenrick Nwodu , Sambo Yohana , Ajiji Joseph , Zam Gideon , Solomon Jacob , O. Urude Rita , Kadimbo Jonathan , Danboyi Jacob , Miri Emmanuel , Nute Andrew W. , Rakers Lindsay , Nebe Obiageli , Anyaike Chukwuma , Weiss Paul , S. Noland Gregory , Richards Frank
Published: May 2022

Nasarawa and Plateau states of north-central Nigeria have implemented programs to control schistosomiasis (SCH) and soil-transmitted helminths (STH) in children since the 1990s. Statewide mapping surveys were conducted in 2013, when 11,332 school-aged children were sampled from 226 schools. The local government areas (LGAs) then received varying combinations of mass drug administration (MDA) for the next 5 years. We revisited 196 (87%) schools in 2018 plus an additional six (202 schools in total), sampling 9,660 children. We calculated overall prevalence and intensity of infection and evaluated associations with gender; age; behaviors; water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH); and treatment regimen. Urine heme detection dipsticks were used for Schistosoma hematobium in both surveys, with egg counts added in 2018. Stool samples were examined by Kato-Katz for Ascaris lumbricoides, Trichuris trichiura, Schistosoma mansoni, and hookworm. Schistosomiasis prevalence among sampled students dropped from 12.9% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 11.1–14.9%) to 9.0% (95% CI: 7.5–10.9%), a statistically significant change (P < 0.05). In 2018, eight LGAs still had > 1% of children with heavy-intensity schistosome infections. Prevalence of STH infection did not significantly change, with 10.8% (95% CI: 9.36–12.5%) of children positive in 2013 and 9.4% (95% CI: 8.0–10.9%) in 2018 (P = 0.182). Heavy-intensity STH infections were found in < 1% of children with hookworm, and none in children with A. lumbricoides or T. trichiura in either study. The WASH data were collected in 2018, indicating 43.6% of schools had a latrine and 14.4% had handwashing facilities. Although progress is evident, SCH remains a public health problem in Nasarawa and Plateau states.
Microbiological Impacts of Decontamination of Stethoscopes and Assessment of Disinfecting Practices among Physicians in Pakistan: A Quality Improvement Survey
Authors: Tahir Muhammad Junaid , Zaman Musharaf , Babar Muhammad Saad , Imran Fareeha , Ajmal Aasma Noveen , Malik Muna , Khan Jalees Khalid , Ullah Irfan , Asghar Muhammad Sohaib
Published: May 2022

The study was conducted to determine bacterial contamination of stethoscopes used by doctors before and after disinfecting with isopropyl alcohol and analyze their practices of disinfecting stethoscopes. Samples from stethoscopes were taken before and after disinfecting with 70% isopropyl alcohol swab with the help of a sterile swab. All swabs were inoculated on Blood and MacConkey agar plates and were examined for growth. Stethoscopes of 78 doctors were sampled which included 45 (58%) males and 33 (42%) females. Before decontamination of diaphragms with isopropyl alcohol, 27 (34.6%) diaphragms had “growth” while 51 (65.4%) had “no growth.” After decontamination with isopropyl alcohol, 5 (6.4%) had “growth” while 73 (93.6%) had “no growth.” The most common microorganism isolated from stethoscopes’ diaphragms was methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (MRSE), that is, 14 out of 78 (17.9%). The survey also evaluated factors associated with contamination of stethoscopes. Most doctors 71(91%) believe that stethoscopes can be a source of infection and 55.1% (N = 43) responded that both diaphragm and bell of stethoscopes can transmit infections. Many doctors (41%, N = 32) reported that “forgetfulness/laziness” was the barrier which they faced regarding stethoscope hygiene followed by “lack of time” (21.8%, N = 17). The contamination rate (66.6%) is highest in those doctors who are using their stethoscopes for 3–5 years. Of them, 30 doctors (38.5%) never decontaminated their stethoscopes among which 17 had growth in their stethoscopes before cleaning with isopropyl alcohol, while three had growth even after decontamination. Most doctors used sanitizer (29.5%) and isopropyl alcohol (25.6%) as cleaning agents.
Case Report: Leptospirosis by Wild Rat Bite in Winter in Tokyo Metropolitan Area, Japan
Authors: Suzuki Tetsuya , Morioka Shinichiro , Kikuchi Tatsuya , Sato Lubna , Nomoto Hidetoshi , Yamamoto Kei , Koizumi Nobuo , Hayakawa Kayoko , Kutsuna Satoshi , Ohmagari Norio
Published: May 2022

We report a case of leptospirosis in Tokyo in winter due to a rat bite, an uncommon cause of Leptospira infection. In Japan, many cases due to exposure to fresh water have been reported from domestic southwest islands in summer. However, a previous report on leptospirosis in Tokyo documented several cases occurring in winter. The main route of infection in the Tokyo metropolitan area during winter was attributed to the increased chance of direct rat exposure. Rapid and feasible diagnostic methods are needed to elucidate its epidemiology and provide prompt treatment.
The role of infections in the pathogenesis of bleeding among patients with haemophilia-A: A primer for haemophilia caregivers in the tropics
Authors: Ahmed S.G. , Ibrahim U.A.
Published: May 2022

Haemophiliacs are often transfusion-dependent, and are at risk of HIV and non-HIV immuno-suppression, making them vulnerable to transfusion-transmissible infections (TTIs) and non-TTIs, many of which can cause infection-associated bleeding (IAB) even in non-haemophilic individuals. Haemophiliacs are particularly susceptible to IAB due to vicious interaction between pre-existing ‘inherited’ FVIII deficiency and infection-induced ‘acquired’ pro-haemorrhagic abnormalities. IAB in haemophiliacs manifests as undue musculoskeletal and/or mucocutaneous haemorrhages. It is thus important for haemophilia caregivers in general (and in the tropics in particular) to have thorough understanding of IAB. Clinico-pathological perspectives of IAB in haemophilia are fragmented, and not comprehensively appraised in previous literature. This review presents updated, comprehensive but concise overview of pathogenesis, trigger mechanisms, clinical implications, therapy and prevention of IAB in haemophiliacs as accrued from literature.

Methodology: Online databases such as PubMed, Medline, Google Scholar and others were interrogated using the search terms; ‘haemophilia-A’, ‘viral, bacterial and parasitic infections’, ‘bleeding’, ‘mucocutaneous’, ‘thrombocytopenia’, ‘ecchymosis’, ‘purpura’, ‘haematuria’, ‘melena’, ‘haematemesis’, and ‘haemoptysis’ in various combinations.

Results: Pathogenesis of IAB in haemophilia include mucosal ulcerations, acquired coagulopathy, and/or portal hypertension. As long as the causative infections are untreated, IAB is often persistent or recurrent, predisposing patients to absenteeism from school/work, iron deficiency, excessive exposure to blood products, high risk of acquiring additional TTIs and increased risk of developing inhibitors to FVIII. Haemophilia caregivers should investigate stool, urine, sputum, blood and/or radiographs of all cases of persistent or recurrent bleeding, especially if bleeding is unabated by blood products transfusion alone, and more-so in patients presenting with constitutional and/or systemic indicators of infections such as pyrexia, asthenia, dysuria, cough, diarrhoea, jaundice, or history of passage of worms in the stool. Transfusion of blood products alone would not suffice for IAB, and transfusions of FVIII containing products without concurrent anti-infection chemotherapy may even promote the development of inhibitors since active infections and inflammations are important risk factors for inhibitor development in haemophiliacs.

Conclusion: It is therapeutically essential to combine transfusion therapy with anti-infective chemotherapy in order to achieve prompt and sustained stoppage of IAB. Haemophilia caregivers should also counsel patients on hygiene, barrier protection against vectors, and vaccination protocols.
Bacteriological quality of community well water and public health concerns in Enugu urban, Nigeria
Authors: Obikpo L. , Onyia F.C , Offe I. M , Ezeilo C.M , Ezebialu C , Afunwa R.A.
Published: May 2022

Background: Water is a basic necessity used by humans for both domestic and industrial uses. Next to air, water is essential to life. It takes up about 71% of the earth’s surface. The objective of this study is to determine the bacteriological quality of well water in Enugu urban, Nigeria

Methodology: A total of 60 domestic wells were selected from Abakpa, Obiagu and Achara layouts in Engu urban, Nigeria by stratified random sampling method, with 20 wells selected from each area based on location of well sites and construction parameters. Water samples were collected from each well using a sterile 200ml plastic bottle for bacteriological analysis to estimate total bacteria count in colony forming unit (cfu)/ml, total coliform count in most probable number (mpn)/100ml, and faecal coliform count in most probable number (mpn)/100ml. Bacterial isolates were identified using Gram reaction and conventional biochemical tests including catalase and coagulase for Gram positive bacteria, and oxidase, citrate utilization, hydrogen sulfide, indole, urease, methyl red, Voges Proskauer, and sugar fermentation tests for Gram negative bacteria. Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) of each isolate was performed by the disk diffusion method against selected antibiotics including penicillin G (10µg), ciprofloxacin (5µg), streptomycin (10µg), amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (20/10µg), and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (25µg), and result interpreted using the European Committee for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) break points. Comparative statistics of the data was performed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with p<0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: The well water in the three layouts were heavily contaminated as shown by comparatively high mean total bacteria counts of 0.8825±0.66x104 cfu/ml, 0.8435±0.6413x104 cfu/ml, and 0.8384±0.5948x104 cfu/ml for Abakpa, Obiagu and Achara layouts respectively (p=0.9714). The mean total coliform counts were 5.15±5.284, 5.45±4.31 and 5.05±4.763 mpn/100ml (p=0.8038), and the mean faecal coliform counts were 2.4±3.393, 2.65±2.796 and 2.05±2.35 mpn/100ml (p=0.9631) for Abakpa, Obiagu and Achara layouts respectively. A total of 50 pathogenic bacterial isolates were identified; Klebsiella pneumoniae 21 (43.8%), Escherichia coli 13 (30.0%), Proteus spp 6 (12.5%), Pseudomonas aeruginosa 6 (12.5%), and Staphylococcus aureus 2 (4.2%). The AST result shows that 75% of K. pneumoniae, E. coli, Proteus spp and S. aureus were resistant to all five antibiotics tested.

Conclusion: These findings showed high faecal contamination of domestic well water sources, which poses a significant infection risk to the community. Proper water treatment measures and personal hygiene practices are recommended, and well sites should be located at a safe distance from septic tanks, pit latrines, flowing gutters and refuse dump sites.
Acute Toxicity Test and Behavioural Activity of Aqueous and Ethanol Dried Leaf Extracts of Solenostemon monostachyus In Mice
Authors: Olusa A.S. , Oyemitan I.A.
Published: May 2022

Background: The leaves of Solenostemon monostachyus have been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including CNS related ailments.

Objective: To evaluate the median lethal dose (LD50), behavioural activity with possible mechanism(s) of action of aqueous dried leaf extract (AESM) and ethanol dried leaf extract (EESM) of Solenostemon monostachyus

Method: The aqueous and ethanol extracts were obtained using sohxlet extraction and 80% ethanol respectively. The LD50 of the extracts was determined orally (p.o.) and intraperitoneally (i.p.). The effects of the AESM and EESM (200, 400, 800 mg/kg, p.o., n=6) on novelty-induced behaviours (NIB) were evaluated using the open field test. Possible mechanism(s) were evaluated using antagonists: flumazenil, naloxone and cyproheptadine at 2 mg/kg each, atropine and yohimbine at 1 mg/kg each.

Results: The LD50 values obtained for AESM and EESM were 3808 and 2154 mg/kg p.o. respectively, while i.p.,values were 490 and 693 mg/kg respectively. AESM and EESM (200, 400, 800 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the NIB. The probable pathways could be majorly facilitated through adrenergic, and GABAergic pathways, though the serotonergic, opioidergic and muscarinic pathways may be implicated. These pathways, except the muscarinic pathway may be implicated in the action of EESM.

Conclusion: The aqueous and ethanol dried leaf extracts of S. monostachyus showed slight and moderate toxicity respectively, suppressed CNS which could be mediated mainly through antagonism of adrenergic and augmentation of GABAergic neurotransmission, while cholinergic (except EESM), opioidergic and serotonergic pathways may be involved.
Susceptibility of Multi-Drug Resistant Wound Pathogens to Extracts and Fractions of Ficus Vogelii (Miq) and Telfairia occidentalis(Hook F.) and Bactericidal kinetics
Authors: Coker M.E. , Fadele M.O. , Udoh H.M.
Published: May 2022

Background: Wound infection is the third most common nosocomial infection worldwide, with resultant high mortality and morbidity rates in developing countries. Many pathogenic microrganisms implicated in wound infections have evolved antimicrobial resistance, necessitating a focused search for important therapeutic bioactive compounds from natural sources.

Objective: To investigate the antimicrobial potential of leaf extracts and fractions of Ficus vogelii and Telfairia occidentalis against wound clinical isolates.

Materials and Methods: Pulverized plant leaves were screened for the presence of phytochemicals. Extraction of ground leaves was by cold maceration with methanol, and fractions were obtained by partitioning into hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol. Antibiogram of clinical isolates was determined via disc diffusion method. Antimicrobial susceptibility of test isolates was determined by agar-well diffusion while minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) were determined by microbroth dilution assay. Time-kill assay of the methanol fraction of plants was carried out using the viable count technique.

Results: Alkaloids, anthraquinones, cardiac glycosides, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, tannins, and terpenoids were the phytochemicals detected. The plant extracts and fractions had appreciable inhibitory effects against the multi-rug resistant test organisms, with MIC and MBC values ranging from 3.125 to 12.5 mg/mL and 12.5 to > 50 mg/mL, respectively. A total kill of the organisms was achieved at 24 hours at 3.125mg/mL and 6.25 mg/mL of methanol fractions of both plants.

Conclusion: Ficus vogelii and Telfairia occidentalis contain bioactive compounds that can be developed into standard chemotherapeutics for the management and treatment of wound infections.
Kinetic evaluation of petroleum refinery wastewater biodegradation in an activated sludge process
Authors: Momoh O. J. , Okonkwo P.C , Edomwonyi-Otu L.C
Published: May 2022

Experimental assessment of process kinetic is essential for process modelling and can serve as a useful tool to improve process performance. In this study, kinetic evaluation of petroleum refinery wastewater (PRWW) biodegradation in an activated sludge process (ASP) was carried out in a 25 L ASP reactor which was operated within the conventional aeration mode of 2-10 hours, hydraulic retention time (HRT), effluents from the secondary sedimentation tank were analyzed at various HRT for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and biomass growth. The data obtained were analyzed and fitted to different related kinetic models which show that the biodegradation of PRWW in ASP follows the Modified Monod Kinetic Model, amongst the related models evaluated, with 0.9745 correlations with the experimental data. Physicochemical characterization of the PRWW used for the study was carried out using the Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater; which gave a biodegradability index of 0.3333.
Assessment of diversity within the Nigeria power generation technologies
Authors: Oluwole E.A. , Obafemi M.O. , Joshua D.A. , Adesiyan O.O.
Published: May 2022

The protracted imbalance and shortage in electricity supply in Nigeria has being adjudged to be multidimensional: ranging from generation to billing, due to inability to diversify our power generation technologies away from hydro and gas. Thus, this paper attempts to assess the extent of diversification of power generation technologies within the industry. Shannon Wiener diversity index was adapted to measures the extent of energy diversity among current and potential power generation technologies available to Nigeria. The result revealed an index value less than 1.5 indicating that the current energy mix has not been fully diversified, while the cumulative energy diversity indices estimated was 0.6, 1.3, 1.7 and 2.0 for year 2015, 2020, 2025, and 2030 respectively. It is expected that the introduction of other conventional and renewable resources into the mix will increase diversity and boost supply.
Routing optimization in a wireless network using genetic algorithm and ILA routing metric
Authors: Okoro R. , Ubadike O. C. , Onumanyi A. J. , Aibinu A. M.
Published: May 2022

Wireless access technology is a popular means of delivering various telecommunication services to users in Nigeria. Wireless Mesh Networking and Wireless Sensor Networking have found useful applications in wireless access systems, surveillance and infrastructure Management. A key problem associated with this technology is performance degradation in terms of Quality of Service (QoS). Achieving good QoS in Wireless Networks design involves implementing a robust routing optimization technique. Genetic Algorithm (GA) technique in NS2 network simulator was used to implement routing optimization in order to solve the performance issues experienced in a campus-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication system. The Interference and Load Aware (ILA) routing metric was chosen as the fitness function which helps to select the best route from a set of identified traffic paths that best guarantees low delay, high throughput and low packet losses suitable for real time communication. Results show that the GA based route optimization produced a 23% improvement in Throughput, 11% less Delay and 16% less Packet loss in comparison to the non-GA route. This work shows that route optimization in wireless multi-hop networks based on GA and ILA improves its QoS.
Factors affecting steel structure erection in developing countries: A case study of Nigerian Construction Industry
Authors: Osuizugbo I. C. , Uhunmwangho E. E.
Published: May 2022

Steel structure plays a significant role in civil engineering. However, there are many factors affecting steel erectors and contractors to have a successful erection of steel structures. Thus, this study seeks to examine the factors affecting steel structure erection in construction projects within the context of a developing country. The study adopted a survey research method; a questionnaire to identify 47 factors, were assessed. A purposive sampling approach was used to identify 20 construction companies specialising in steel structures erections in Lagos, Nigeria. Sixty-three (63) questionnaires were distributed to the targeted population, which included 32 project managers, 14 project engineers and 17 site engineers of current and past steel structure projects carried out by the selected companies in Lagos. The data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The results revealed skills and experience, job site planning, availability of electrical power for tools, insufficient supervision and method of construction as the top most five factors affecting steel structure erection in construction project in Nigeria. The findings provide in-depth insight of the factors affecting steel structure erection in construction project that can help project managers in development of strategies for improving the erection of steel structure in the construction industry.
Application of neural network algorithm for schizophrenia diagnosis
Authors: Zaccheus J. E. , Fidelis O.P. , Nwoye E.O.
Published: May 2022

Schizophrenia is a prolonged mental condition that affects functional impairment in work, interpersonal relationships, and self-care. This research was aimed at developing a neural network model to diagnose schizophrenia using text data acquired from patients’ records. The model was developed from datasets obtained from Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba and the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, both in Lagos, Nigeria, using Python programming language and is provided with significant features from data sets to learn patterns within the training data and perform classification on the test data. The results show that the model produced a test accuracy of 85%, specificity of 95% and a precision of 93%. These results indicate that the model can be used for effective computer-aided diagnosis of schizophrenia.
The use of electrical resistivity tomography to classify the Earth’s subsurface in Ugbogiobo Community, Edo State, South-South Nigeria
Authors: Airen O. J. , Ekhoragbon M. O.
Published: May 2022

Electrical Resistivity investigations using Two-dimensional (2-D) geophysical investigation was carried out in Ugbogiobo community, Ovia North East Local Government Area of Edo State, Nigeria. This was done to have a good idea of subsurface lithology in the study area. Twenty-four (24) traverse lines were profiled in two locations using a rectangular grid format with electrode spacing of 10 m with a horizontal length of 300 m and 200 m respectively using the Wenner Alpha configuration as a survey technique. The 2-D Electrical Resistivity data was processed using RES2DINV software. From the results obtained it is evident that over a depth of between 5 m to 56 m for all the profiled lines there is composition of Alluvium and clayey soil at the top surface with low resistivity values at a depth below 10 m with resistivity values ranging between 50 Ωm–800 Ωm. While Shale, Slate and Sandstone occurred at a depth of between 13 m to 25 m with resistivity values ranging between 1000 Ωm–3000 Ωm. Above a depth of 30 m revealed limestone and thick clay with resistivity values raging between 5000 Ωm– 30000 Ωm.
Development and evaluation of a Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3-D printer
Authors: Oluwajobi A.O. , Kolawole F.O.
Published: May 2022

A Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) 3-D printer was fabricated by using in part locally sourced materials. The printer design was based on the Replicating Rapid Prototyper (RepRap) open source. The print volume of the printer is 200mm x 200mm x 300mm and it uses the Melzi V2 printer control board, coupled with the Repetier-Host firmware. The 3-D printer utilizes two major thermoplastic materials namely, the Polylactic Acid (PLA) and the Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS). The printer consists of a frame, fabricated from galvanized steel sheets, stainless steel threaded rods and wooded supports. The three main Cartesian axes of the machine were constructed from plain stainless rods with plastic printed parts as supporting members. Test results obtained for the PLA print material showed a dimensional deviation of 0.307 mm from the actual CAD model at a print temperature of 200°C and at a layer height of 0.2 mm. For the ABS filament, a dimensional deviation of 0.620 mm at a temperature of 255°C, was obtained. Local development and production of this 3-D printer can help in popularizing the benefits of the technology and consequently boosting the local economy.
Free vibration analysis of all round clamped thin isotropic rectangular plate by Ritz Direct Variational Method
Authors: Aginam C. H. , Adamou A. , Nwaiwu C.M.O.
Published: May 2022

This paper developed polynomial comparison functions for the free vibration analysis of clamped thin rectangular plates using the Ritz Direct Variational Method. The polynomials were derived systematically from a predefined formula, which could generate any number of trial functions for any set of plate’s classical boundary conditions. The method was implemented by means of a Mathematica computer programme developed by the authors. The frequency parameters so obtained agreed excellently with those available in the literature. The numerical values of the frequency parameters increased with the aspect ratio irrespective of the mode considered. In addition, the study showed that the more the number of polynomial coordinate functions in the shape function, the better the accuracy of the results. The convergence study corroborated the fact that a one-term approximation yields sufficient accuracy. The convergence was best for square plates, even though acceptable percentages of convergence were obtained for the other side ratios.
Prospects and Challenges of Propulsion Technologies of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles: A Review
Authors: A. Mohammed A. , Shinkafi A. A. , Isah A. , Ajayi J A. , Pedro P.T. , Asooto B.C. , Ejakita J.O. , Johnson-Anamemena N.
Published: May 2022

This review paper discussed the different types of propulsion technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). In it, several UAV propulsion systems were investigated, with particular emphasis on internal combustion engine (ICEs)-powered propulsion systems and electrically powered propulsion systems. The characteristics and working principles of these propulsion systems and challenges were discussed in this paper. Also, the methods in which future generations of UAVs can perform better have been discussed particularly with regards to endurance characteristics, power-to-weight ratios, and environmental wise. Similarly, the relevance of future UAV propulsion systems, which is a hybrid of the two major propulsion systems (ICEs and electric systems), giving a yield for high endurance, long-range, and durability, is discussed.
Optimization of response to selection using genomic selection in indigenous chicken breeding programmes
Authors: Ndung’u C.W. , Muasya T.K. , Okeno T.O.
Published: May 2022

This study tested the hypothesis that the use of pooled genetic and phenotypic parameters and genomic selection would optimize selection response in indigenous chicken breeding programmes. This premise was tested with deterministic simulation in three breeding schemes based on the sources of information used to estimate breeding values. These schemes used a conventional breeding scheme with non-pooled parameters (CSN), pooled parameters (CSP), and genomic information in a genomic selection scheme (GSS). A one-tier closed nucleus breeding programme was considered with a mating ratio of 1 to 5 for males to females, Four traits were used in the breeding goal, namely live weight at twelve weeks (LW), egg number for twelve weeks (EN), age at first egg (AFE), and antibody response (Ab). The genetic gain for CSN was 1.5 times higher than that of CSP. The rate of inbreeding for CSN was 19% lower than in CSP. The accuracy of selection followed the same trend with CSN producing 9% higher accuracy of selection than CSP. The GSS scheme resulted in an additional 59.3% genetic gain and 30% accuracy compared with CSP. The GSS scheme also had a reduced rate of inbreeding by 46% compared with CSP. When compared with CSN, GSS produced 38.7% greater genetic gain, a 27% lower rate of inbreeding and 21.0% higher accuracy of selection. Use of pooled parameter estimates and genomic information optimized response to selection, whereas non-pooled inputs overestimated and underestimated rates of genetic gain and inbreeding.
Performance and intestinal histology of sheep fed detoxified castor bean meal in sugarcane silage
Authors: Dantas Júnior P.R. , Oliveira J.S. , Ribeiro N.L. , Rola L.D. , Silva E.G. , Oliveira A.C. , Almeida V.V.S. , Lima Júnior D.M. , Guerra R.R.
Published: May 2022

This study evaluated histological changes in the digestive organs and kidneys of sheep fed sugarcane silage augmented with detoxified castor bean meal (CBM). Forty Santa Inês sheep (initial weight 20 ± 0.3 kg) were adapted to the experimental regime for 14 days, after which data were collected for 60 days. The treatments consisted of S0: sugarcane silage (SC); S5: SC augmented with 5% CBM; S10: SC augmented with 10% CBM; S15: SC augmented with 15% CBM; and S20: SC augmented with 20% CBM. After 74 days of confinement, the animals were slaughtered, and then fragments of the liver, rumen, intestine, and kidney were collected for histomorphometric analyses. The intake of dry matter and the average weight gain increased linearly with the level of CBM (P <0.05), as did the rumen absorption area, the height of the papillae and the width of the papillae. The thickness of the keratinized portion of the epithelium was not influenced, Thus, no effect was detected of the anti-nutritional factor of CBM on this organ. In the intestine, CBM increased the height of the villi and the number of goblet cells. However, S20 caused some kidney damage and decreased hepatic glycogen stock, but not sufficiently to reduce performance. Thus, augmentation of sugarcane with CBM, up to 20%, is viable in feeding sheep.
Spineless cactus-based diets associated with various nitrogen sources in sheep diets
Authors: Pinho A.C.A. , Pessoa R.A.S. , Batista A.M.V. , Véras A.S.C. , Cardoso D.B. , Santos K.C. , De Lima Júnior D.M. , De Carvalho F.F.R.
Published: May 2022

This study evaluated the effects of various nitrogen (N) sources augmenting spineless cactus-based diets on intake, digestibility, rumen kinetics and N balance in sheep. Eight rumen-fistulated sheep with an average initial bodyweight of 62 ± 6.83 kg were allotted to one of two 4 x 4 Latin squares. The diets consisted of spineless cactus (Nopalea cochenillifera), Tifton hay, corn grain, vegetable oil and a mineral mixture augmented with either soybean meal (SBM), cottonseed meal (CSM), whole cottonseed (WCS) or urea (U) to provide additional nitrogen. Dry matter (DM), crude protein (CP), and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) intakes were similar (P >0.05) for sheep fed the diets with SBM, CSM, and WCS. The digestibility coefficients of DM and CP were similar (P >0.05) for SM, CM, and U diets. The rate of DM disappearance from the rumen did not differ (P >0.05) between treatments. However, the rumen ammonia, pH and N balance was higher (P <0.05) for sheep fed the WCS and U diets. The N absorbed and N retained did not differ (P >0.05) between the diets. Soybean meal and CSM are similar in their effects and can be used for sheep in diets based on spineless cactus. Whole cottonseed and U are interesting sources of N but should be used with caution owing to their effects on digestibility and nutrient intake in sheep.
Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on incidence, treatment and outcome of very preterm born infants in Switzerland: a retrospective, population-based cohort study
Authors: Adams Mark , Schulzke Sven M. , Rogdo Bjarte , Meyer Philipp , McDougall Jane , Stocker Martin , Schneider Juliane , Riedel Thomas , Pfister Riccardo , Bassler Dirk
Published: May 2022

AIMS OF THE STUDY: To assess whether the COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 had an impact on incidence, treatment or major adverse short-term outcome of preterm-born infants in Switzerland.
METHODS: Retrospective cohort study of preterm infants born in 2020 based on two independent data sources from the Swiss Federal Statistics Office (FSO) and SwissNeoNet. Based on FSO data, we calculated the odds ratios for extremely preterm (22–27 weeks gestation), very preterm (28–31 weeks gestation), and late preterm (32–36 weeks gestation) births during the pandemic. Based on SwissNeoNet data of infants born between 22 and 31 weeks gestation, we compared infants born during the Swiss lockdown period in 2020 with infants born during the same period between 2015 and 2019, all infants of 2020 with all infants between 2015 and 2019 and infants born to mothers tested SARS-CoV-2 positive and negative. Possible associations with the pandemic were tested using logistic regression adjusted for case-mix. As a control, we compared births of 2019 with those of 2015–2018.
RESULTS: The FSO data revealed equivalent odds for extremely preterm births in 2020 (odds ratio [OR] 1.01, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.89–1.14), as well as somewhat lower odds ratios for very preterm (OR 0.9, 95% CI 0.82–1.00) and late preterm (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.88–0.93) births in 2020. A comparison between 2019 and 2015–2018, however, revealed matching odds ratios rendering an association to the pandemic unlikely. In the SwissNeoNet data, 137 infants were born during lockdown in 2020 compared with 134 births per year during 2015–2019. When including all infants, 744 infants were compared to 845 births, respectively. The only difference observed in treatments and short term outcomes between 2020 and the reference years were a higher odds for respiratory distress syndrome (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.08–2.37) and provision of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.05–1.84).
CONCLUSIONS: Our Swiss population-based analysis did not identify the elsewhere reported association between the COVID-19 pandemic and a reduced preterm birth rate. However, we can confirm a possible link between the COVID-19 pandemic and higher odds of respiratory distress syndrome, possibly coupled with CPAP requirements. Further observation of potential effects of the pandemic on health and health care provision to newborns may however be indicated based on the literature available so far and that our data only covers the first 9 months of the current pandemic.
Designing of Dual Power Generation Solar Plus Wind Energy Hybrid System using MPPT
Authors: Sarswat Meenakshi , Varshney Lokesh
Published: May 2022

Renewable energy is another energy efficiency solution within the modern day of life. The production of energy contributes significantly to the environment and thus human health to the environment. In India, wind and solar energy are available at no cost throughout the year.In India there is a power shortage and load restrictions. Due to power shortages and problems in many regions, to bridge the gap between electricity demand and supply, we must use a hybrid system.The paper aims to improve the power demand using Wind and Solar energy within the MATLAB software. The hybrid model has Solar panels Maximum power point tracking, power converter, turbine and PMSG generator.
Qualitative and Quantitative Evaluation of Breast Images-Comparative Study of Mammogram and Thermogram
Authors: Sriraam N. , K. Praneethi , N. Kavya , N. Usha , D. Sharath , Ravi Prabha , Hiremath Bharathi , Venkatraman B. , Menaka M.
Published: May 2022

The early detection of breast cancer can lower the risk of mortality among women. Mammography has been considered as standard tool for screening breast cancer today. Despite its ability in detecting breast condition, mammography has some drawbacks. Mammography technique is less effective for younger patients and it is not suitable for women with dense breasts. Thermography is being proposed as adjunct screening tool for breast cancer detection. Breast infrared thermography is a noninvasive procedure suitable for all age groups and does not involve any exposure of radiation. Hence the proposed study focused on feature extraction in breast thermograms for detecting breast cancer and compared with mammogram results to show that even breast thermography gives a significant difference between normal and abnormal patterns of breast images. The thermography can be used as a complimentary tool together with mammography to enhance its efficiency in detecting breast cancer, but it cannot substitute mammography completely. The texture features such asskewness, kurtosis, cluster prominence, entropy and coarsenesswere extracted from thermogram and mammogram images and analysis were done. The aim of the present study was to compare the results of normal and malignant subjects using mammogram and thermogram modalities. The obtained results show the significant difference among the features extracted to classify normal and abnormal images.
Analysis of Vibration and Noise on Vibrating Screen at Pt. Mifa Bersaudara
Authors: Kamarullah Kamarullah , Susanto Herdi
Published: May 2022

The purpose of this study was to analyze the level of vibration and noise on the Equipment Vibrating screen crusher FC 02 at PT. MIFA Bersaudara. Vibration is measured using a vibration meter, noise is measured by a digital sound level meter . Measurements are made on the x, y and z axes at each measurement point. The results showed that the value of the vibration level on the Vibrating screen crusher FC 02 on the x-axis with the velocity value of 28.56 mm/s, the y-axis value of 29.82 mm/s and the z-axis velocity value of 25.46 mm/s. While the Acceleration value on the x-axis is 20.7 m/s 2 the value is 30.86 m/s 2on the y and z axes of 21.42 m/s 2 . While the noise value indicates that the average value on the right side is 99.6 dBA on the right side and 101.7 dBA on the left side. Efforts were made to overcome the problem, namely by not operating the VSC FC 02 exceeding the recommended maximum limit of 60 dBA and the maximum allowed which is 70 dBA so as to prevent problems of comfort, health, and safety at work. Operators and employees are advised to stay at the location for no more than 15-30 minutes, if more than that time must use safety earmuffs
Transespecie: tránsito de los humanos a no humanos
Authors: López-Guzmán Jorge Alberto
Published: May 2022

Lo transespecie puede ser definido como hombres y mujeres que no se identifican como seres humanos, sienten que están atrapados en cuerpos que no les pertenece, reconfigurando su sexo, género e identidad en pro de dar una lucha en espacios sociales, políticos y jurídicos. De esta manera, el presente artículo tiene como objetivo indagar sobre las discusiones que se han venido dando desde hace unas décadas en diferentes disciplinas académicas y formas de representación artística y cultural sobre la definición de transespecie. Es importante manifestar que, este artículo es fruto de una investigación de orden documental a través de revisión bibliográfica sobre el tema donde se encontraron siete tipologías hegemónicas que hablan y comprenden lo transespecie de distintas formas. Asimismo, el escrito agrega una tipología más sobre lo transespecie, —en el entendido que en la revisión documental fue sobre la que menos se encontró información—. Esto no quiere decir que no haya bibliografía sobre el tema, más bien quiere decir que es escasa, y que en la indagación para este artículo las posturas sobre transespecie se limitaron a ser sinónimos de cyborgs, híbridos, posthumanistas, transhumanistas o zoosexuales. En conclusión, se pudieron identificar siete tipologías hegemónicas: la concepción literaria, tecnológica, artística, la jurídica, la etológica, sociológica y psicoanalítica, y finalmente, la concepción sobre la que menos información se encontró que es el tránsito de lo humano a lo no humano animal, en esta concepción transespecie, hombres y mujeres no se identifican como seres humanos, sino como una especie animal.
¿Influye la corrupción percibida en el mercado de seguros de crédito en España? Un análisis mediante la herramienta Google Trends
Authors: Naveira Gallego Judit , González Fernández Marcos
Published: May 2022

En este estudio, se realiza un análisis del efecto de la corrupción percibida en la actividad delmercado de seguros de crédito o CDSs en España en el periodo comprendido entre los años2008 y 2018. Para medir la corrupción percibida se utiliza la herramienta Google Trends para la palabra “corrupcion”. Por su parte, para medir la actividad del mercado de CDSs, se utiliza la evolución de los Credit Default Swaps o CDSs a 5 años. Posteriormente, se realiza un análisis empírico a través de la metodología de regresión y el análisis out-of-sample para comprobar la capacidad predictiva del modelo. Los resultados muestran que la corrupción percibida es influyente en la evolución de los CDSs, y que su influencia es mayor en los años en los que la economía del país no atraviesa una crisis.
Rehabilitation and Care Program for Pain during COVID-19 Recovery
Authors: Liu Yanqing
Published: May 2022

For the COVID-19 outbreak, there are no specific drugs to treat or prevent patient deterioration and severe complications [1]. When the outbreak occurred, TCM methods gained valuable experience in the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 [2]. In the prevention and treatment of COVID-19, the results of several clinical trials show that TCM plays an important role in the prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of COVID-19 [3]. Many convalescent patients suffer with pain symptoms due to factors such as disease and complications [4]. Psychotherapy, sports rehabilitation, TCM external application, fumigation, rubbing, acupuncture and moxibustion treatment have formed a unique rehabilitation and nursing plan for COVID-19 convalescent pain, which plays an important role in alleviating the convalescent pain of COVID-19 patients [5].
Railway Squealing Noise on Nodic Trains Application in Sweden.
Authors:   ALSTOM, GERMANY, Emorine Denis
Published: May 2022

All train manufacturers have one day experience squealing noise issue by braking in the stations. This noise could be high frequency or low frequency. It is in any case an issue when it’s disturbing noise (in the human ear frequency).

This issue causes disturbance for the population leaving close to the railway stations and it’s taken seriously into consideration in the recent project: for instance, in Sweden. To avoid or reduce this noise, what are the possible levers for it? What are the effective influence of each levers on the noise? It’s always a fine compromise to find between wear (LCC), performance (thermal) and noise. Therefore, the presentation will target to provide actual answers on a real example experienced on Nordic trains in Sweden by ALSTOM Transport. It will show - the initial situation of each Swedish fleet and its chronology (wear, noise), - the corrective actions chosen within the project developments,

- the issue encountered with the correctives actions, - the experimental researches to identify where come from the noise generation (18 different pad variants, different caliper fixations, SW action on the brake force…), - the analyze of the results with their weighting on interest/cost and beside requirements (wear/performance), - the final retained solutions, - Actual final accepted end solution.
Longlife Friction Couples
Authors:   ITT Friction Technologies, ITALY, Sin Agusti ,   Continental, GERMANY, Fischer Sebastian
Published: May 2022

The advanced alternative powertrains regarding their electrification bring as a consequence a large levels of recuperation implying a small intervention of the hydraulic system during the brake lifetime.

This new scenario for the brake system could have and important impact in the brake design regarding properties such as mu stability, corrosion/stiction, NVH… and the test design for their development. Moreover, the aftermarket for friction material and brake rotors is an important industry with significant commercial impact for all levels of the supply chain. How far is this trend also justified in technical terms? How should be designed the new brake systems and tested the new brake systems? Which is their environmental impact? Which are the main technical challenges regarding the longlife brake pad material, rotors, shims, backplates and calipers?New test need to be developed and harmonized?
Investigation of Tribological Behavior and Airborne Emissions During the Bedding Stage
Authors:   University of Trento, ITALY, Gomes Nogueira Ana Paula , Candeo Stefano , Straffelini Giovanni ,   Brembo, ITALY, Leonardi Mara
Published: May 2022

Tribological transitions are frequent when two new surfaces are placed in contact under load and sliding conditions. These transitions usually occur not only by the changes on the surface roughness, but also by the characteristics of the third body formed between the mating surfaces. The present work investigates the tribological behavior and the related airborne particles emissions of a Cu-free brake friction material during the initial stage of braking (bedding), starting from a virgin material. The tribo-tests have been conducted using a reduced-scale dynamometer, and the number distribution of the airborne particles was simultaneously measured by an Optical Particle Sizer (OPS). The tests were stopped with 25, 50, 100 and 130 brake events in order to analyze the surface of the friction material. Bedding showed two distinct stages regarding the friction and emissions behaviors. The first is characterized by a pronounced increase in both friction coefficient and particles emissions, achieving the highest value around 35 brake events. Successively, a smooth decrease is observed until reach the steady-stage of the friction coefficient. The friction layer formed on the surface of friction material seems to be correlated with the tribological and emissions results; in which the achievement of the state-state on the friction coefficient is coincident with the progressive compaction and area-increase of the secondary plateaus.
Particles Emissions and Understanding the Braking Tribological Circuit
Authors:   École Centrale de Lille, FRANCE, David Edouard , Coustenoble Laurent , Desplanques Yannick ,   Univ. Lille, FRANCE, Beaurain Arnaud
Published: May 2022

Particles detached from the first bodies (disc and pad) travel in the braking system by forming a tribological circuit. As the flows of particles in this circuit interact with the friction and wear mechanisms at the braking interface, their comprehension is crucial to better understand how the braking system behaves. Currently, identifying and quantifying those flows constitutes a scientific and technical challenge. The wear flow in particular, is made of the particles that permanently leave the system. Most of this wear goes airborne and disseminates quickly in the atmosphere.

Many techniques measuring the brake particles emissions focus mainly on the resulting air quality, or on health hazard, and collect the particles far from the contact. These techniques, although very informative, do not enable to establish a clear link between the measurements and a wear flow. We thus designed a setup able to trace the quick evolutions of emissions during and after braking, while allowing to compare the relative quantities of particles between different configurations, for the range of 5 to 10000nm. Emissions showed a clear temporal signature, with in some cases, a strong release at contact opening. As expected, configurations causing severe wear mechanisms such as adhesive wear caused a much larger emissions than configurations featuring more conventional oxidation based mechanisms. The effects of other parameters, such as contact vibrations could also be witnessed.