bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dog predation by jaguars in a tourist town on the Mexican Caribbean
Authors: Carral-García Mónica , Buenrostro Irene , Weissenberger Holger , Rosales Víctor , Pérez-Flores Jonathan
Published: October 2021

Invasion of humans and dogs into the jaguars’ habitat opens the way for future negative events. Dog predation by jaguars has only been recorded anecdotally, despite the high risk of pathogen transmission and the potential conflict due to pet predation. In this study, we document jaguar attacks on dogs in Mahahual, Quintana Roo, Mexico, a tourist town in the Mexican Caribbean. In addition, we describe an initiative designed to prevent jaguar persecution by constructing night houses for dogs at the most recent attack sites. A total of 20 attacks were recorded in the last nine years, most of them fatal (60%) on medium-sized dogs (70%), at night (95%) and during the dry season (65%). Half of the attacks occurred in the north of Mahahual´s coastline and the other half in the south. Attacks in the south were concentrated between 0 to 10 km away from the village, while in the north they were dispersed over distances between 0 and > 30 km. Thirty-eight night houses were constructed covering almost 45 km of the 135 km of Mahahual’s coastline. Further research is required to understand the importance of dogs in the jaguar diet and the impact of dog predation on the health and disease ecology of jaguar populations.
Haplodontium altunense (Bryaceae, Bryopsida), a new moss species from Northwest China
Authors: Wang Xiao-Rui , Li Min , Spence John R. , Zhao Jian-Cheng , Mamtimin Sulayman
Published: October 2021

Haplodontium altunense X.R.Wang & S.Mamtimin, a new moss species of the family Bryaceae from Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China is described and illustrated. Genetic analysis based on ITS sequences shows that this species is a member of the Bryaceae and in the same clade as Anomobryum. Particularly distinctive features of the new species include: double peristome; the exostome has raised and membranous chomata with united lamellae between two teeth proximally; the endostome is poorly developed and all the endostomial material tightly adherent to the exostome.
Fibro-Osseous Pseudotumor
Authors: Liu Di , Qi Baiwen , Huang Zhen , Pan Zhenyu
Published: October 2021

Fibro-osseous pseudotumor is an extremely rare subcutaneous benign ossifying lesion associated with bone formation that is most commonly seen in the hands, followed by the toes. Because the tumor has a certain degree of invasiveness, it is often mistaken for malignancy, which leads to radical, excessive treatment. Our case involved a 32-year-old man with lesions on the left index finger. We documented the detailed data of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. We also conducted a review and summarized the published cases to advance our understanding of the disease, provide more accurate diagnostic criteria, and avoid inappropriate surgical procedures. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(6):e713–e718.]
Addressing Common Questions About Traveling by Air After Orthopedic Surgery
Authors: Czerwonka Natalia , Cross Rachel E. , Miller Christopher P. , Okanlami Oluwaferanmi O. , Michalski Max P. , Kwon John Y.
Published: October 2021

Many patients have questions about traveling by air after orthopedic surgery. The goal of this review was to provide a guide to addressing these issues to better prepare patients for air travel. A comprehensive literature review was conducted to address patient questions regarding metal detectors, as well as deep venous thrombosis risk with flying. Further, patient questions pertaining to specific airlines, airports, and Transportation Security Administration policies were answered through direct discussion with representatives, website review, and internet research. Ultimately, providers should be aware of the many challenges that orthopedic patients face during air travel, and patients should consult their providers before making travel plans. Airline passengers are likewise encouraged to equip themselves with the information presented in this article, to best advocate for themselves. This guide should be used as a reference tool, providing up-to-date information about air travel after orthopedic surgery to both patients and providers alike. [
Orthopedics
. 2021;44(6):e719–e723.]
Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound in the Pediatric and Neonatal Emergency Transport Realm
Authors: Foster Bob , Kuttab Hani I. , Damewood Sara C. , Brazelton Tom , Al-Subu Awni M.
Published: October 2021

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) is a tool often used by clinical providers in the care of critically ill or acutely injured patients. POCUS can be used to evaluate for potentially harmful conditions during transport and to optimize downstream management. Although available literature primarily focuses on adults in the prehospital, critical care, and austere environment realm, more literature supporting POCUS use during pediatric and neonatal transport has emerged over the last few years. What is currently available is often from diverse operators and a wide variety of applications. The goal of this article is to describe current pediatric and neonatal POCUS applications and to identify its barriers and limitations in the transport realm.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2021;50(10):e432–e436.]
Cardiac Ultrasound for Pediatric Emergencies
Authors: Alerhand Stephen , Choi April , Varga Peter
Published: October 2021

Cardiac point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) provides real-time views of the heart to answer specific questions in a timely manner. This is a valuable tool for managing pediatric patients, from those with congenital heart disease to those who are critically ill. The main echocardiographic findings of pericardial tamponade consist of a pericardial effusion, diastolic right ventricular collapse, systolic right atrial collapse, and a plethoric inferior vena cava with minimal respiratory variation. The main echocardiographic findings of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy consist of increased wall thickness (concentric or eccentric), systolic anterior motion of the anterior mitral leaflet, and a dynamic sub-aortic left ventricular outflow tract obstruction. Additional uses of cardiac POCUS include assessment of dilated cardiomyopathy and the detection of pediatric congenital heart disease, including detection of a patent ductus arteriosus. The use of POCUS in the pediatric population is supported by societal position statements and is expected to develop further with increasingly robust education and training.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2021;50(10):e424–e431.]
Physical Therapy Interventions and Outcome Measures for a Patient Diagnosed with Anti-NMDA Receptor Encephalitis
Authors: Kennedy Catherine , O'Shea Roberta , De Ranieri Deirdre
Published: October 2021

Anti-N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor encephalitis is the most common cause of autoimmune encephalitis after acute demyelinating encephalitis. Patients usually present with acute behavioral changes, psychosis, and abnormal limb movements and can also present with symptoms of catatonia. Treatment typically consists of an immunotherapy protocol consisting of intravenous immunoglobulin, corticosteroids, and plasmapheresis. This article describes the medical treatment, physical therapy (PT) interventions, and outcomes of a 16-year-old patient with anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis with malignant catatonia. Using PT interventions such as bed mobility, transfer, and gait training, and parent education initially, and progressing to balance re-education and age-appropriate functional tasks the patient was able to progress and be discharged to home with family with a recommendation for continued PT treatment in the outpatient setting.

[
Pediatr Ann
. 2021;50(10):e437–e443.]
Arsenic in Santa Catarina soils
Authors: Machado Matheus Rodrigo , Miquelluti David José , Campos Mari Lucia
Published: October 2021

Arsenic (As) is one of the most harmful chemical elements known to man and to the environment, mainly due its high toxicity and wide distribution; the content of this element within the soils is a genuine concern, thus making it paramount to know its natural contents in a regional context. The present study aimed to determine the natural Arsenic content in the A horizon of 31 soil profiles from the state of Santa Catarina, Brazil, which is useful in determining reference values, monitoring, remediation of contaminated areas, legal regulation and Brazilian laws. Soil samples were prepared following the USPEA 3051A SW-846 method and were previously chemically reduced from As(V) to AS(III) by using the BCR method. The determination was performed in an Inductively Coupled Plasma - Optical Emission Spectrometry - Hydride Generation (ICP-OES-HG at cold vapor). Results obtained from the soil groups reveal the materials of basaltic origins as the ones with more As content while those of sediment origins had lesser content. Evaluated soil profiles fit into the following descending order regarding their As content: Latossolos, according to EMBRAPA (Oxisols according to Soil Taxonomy) > Nitossolo (Ultisols, Oxisols (Kandic), Alfisols) > Chernossolos (---) = Cambissolo (Inceptisols) = Argissolo (Ultisols) > Neossolos (Entisols).

Keywords: arsenic content, reference value, soils, trace element.
Application of polyelectrolytes for improving the dewatering performance of drinking water treatment sludge using geotextiles
Authors: Avancini Livia Luiza de Souza , Muller Matheus , Vidal Delma de Mattos
Published: October 2021

The sludge generated at drinking water treatment plants (WTPs) is a high-moisture content residue, and therefore difficult to handle, transport, dispose of or recover. During the last decades, geotextile tubes have been successfully applied to reduce the residue volume, facilitate its handling and subsequent reuse. This study aimed to understand the factors that interfere in the filtration and dewatering efficiencies and to experimentally analyze the dewatering process of WTPs sludge, evaluating different test procedures and investigating the influence of the type and dosage of polymeric additives on dewatering performance. Geotextile cone dewatering tests and geotextile bag dewatering tests were performed, using four different woven geotextile samples and an aluminum sulfate WTP sludge sample. The results showed that the use of geotextile cone dewatering tests for geotextile selection and for additive selection and dosage was representative for the dewatering process intended, reflecting the results verified in the geotextile bag dewatering tests. Sludge chemical conditioning increased dewatering rate and solids retention during the tests’ early stages, but it did not result in a higher final solids content sludge cake.

Keywords: dewatering systems, geosynthetics, waste management.
Microplastics in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) from Lake Amatitlán
Authors: Oliva-Hernández Bessie Evelyn , Santos-Ruiz Francis Mariel , Muñoz-Wug Manuel Alejandro , Pérez-Sabino Juan Francisco
Published: October 2021

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm found in the environment, which can cause health problems for aquatic organisms and humans, being classified as emerging pollutants. In Guatemala, Lake Amatitlán is one of the most polluted lakes as it receives discharges of wastewater, treated and untreated, as well as other waste from Guatemala City and other major urban populations. In a recent study, microplastics were found in sediments in Lake Amatitlán, so it was necessary to determine whether the lake's fish are affected by these pollutants, which can be harmful to their health. This research aimed to determine the microplastics in fish from Lake Amatitlán, for which 65 specimens of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) were collected in October and December 2020, and January 2021. The collected fish were dissected in the laboratory, where the number and type of microplastics were analyzed in the digestive tract, after their separation by digestion and filtration. Lines or fibers were the most common type of microplastics, found in 63 specimens (96.9% of the analyzed specimens), ranging from 0 to 27 lines/fibers per individual. The frequency of other types of microplastics found were 0-3 fragments/individual, 0-2 films/individual, and 0-4 foams/individual, while microspheres were not found in any specimen. The presence of microplastics in tilapia from Lake Amatitlán is an indicator of contamination in the lake by pollutants that could affect the trophic network and represents a risk for the fish consumers, requiring the attention of environmental and health authorities.

Keywords: emerging pollutants, Guatemala, pollution.
Anxiety and Depression Symptoms and Every-Night Sleep Medication Use in Older Adults
Authors: Watanabe Jonathan H. , Chau Diane L.
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVE: To quantify relationship between anxiety and depression symptoms with every-night sleep medication use in the United States. DESIGN: A case-control analysis to measure association between subjects with anxiety and depression symptoms and sleep medication use.
SETTING AND PATIENTS: Older adults (N = 7,590) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE: Sleep medication use every night. RESULTS: Presence of the four anxiety and depression symptoms was associated with nightly sleep medication use. Those
who reported "felt down, depressed, or hopeless" almost every day had an odds ratio (OR) of 3.50 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.28-5.37) compared with those who did not. Those who reported "little interest or pleasure in doing things" almost every day had an OR of 1.86 (95% CI 1.32-2.61)
compared with those with symptoms less often. Those who reported "felt nervous, anxious, or on edge" more than half the days had an OR of 3.43 (95% CI 2.68-4.37) compared with those who experienced the symptom less frequently. Those who reported "unable to stop or control worrying" more than
half the days had an OR of 2.91 (95% CI 2.25-3.77) compared with those who did not. CONCLUSION: Older adults with anxiety and depression are more likely to use sleep medications every night. Efforts must be undertaken to reduce anxiety and depression to mitigate excess consumption of
sedatives.
Methotrexate Central Nervous System Toxicity Identified in a Pharmacogenomics Pharmacist Consult Patient
Authors: Schuh Michael J. , Crosby Sheena
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVE: To report a possible pharmacogenomics (PGx)-related, cognitive dysfunction, adverse drug reaction from methotrexate (MTX) that may be multifactorial in origin. SUMMARY: The patient subject is a 76-year-old Caucasian female of Russian ancestry suffering from
rheumatoid arthritis and treated with MTX who presented to the diagnostic and consultative physician service in a medical clinic with advancing cognitive dysfunction, manifesting as memory loss, dizziness, and confusion. Components of this possible adverse drug reaction (ADR) may include ancestry,
pharmacogenomics (PGx) characteristics of the patient, and a change in route of administration, among others. The case demonstrates how patients referred to a pharmacist consult service for a suspected ADR with possible PGx implications may uncover other contributory factors to the ADR. CONCLUSION:
PGx testing may increase clinical pharmacist referrals to identify a PGx etiology to an ADR. However, they may also identify other non-PGx contributory factors to an ADR.
2020 New Drug Update
Authors: Hussar Daniel A. , Finn Laura A.
Published: October 2021

Five new drugs for medical problems often affecting older people and marketed in the United States in 2019 have been considered in this review. The uses and most important properties of these agents are discussed, and a rating for each new drug is determined using the New Drug Comparison
Rating system developed by the author (DAH). Advantages, disadvantages, and other important information regarding each new drug are identified and used as the basis for determining the rating. The drugs considered include new agents indicated for the treatment of patients with Parkinson's
disease, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, osteoporosis in postmenopausal women, and chronic idiopathic constipation.
COViD-19: Face Mask Effectiveness, Hand Sanitizer Shortages, and Rapid Medication Therapy Trials
Authors: Alderman Chris
Published: October 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic is a rapidly evolving phenomenon that presents serious practical challenges and complex clinical considerations for health care workers, health care administrators, and policy formulators. The Senior Care Pharmacist carries periodic updates addressing matters
relevant to pharmacotherapeutics and pharmacy practice as these relate to the care of older people in the time of the pandemic. The brief news items that are provided here are not intended to be substitutes for a careful and comprehensive consideration of the issues involved, but rather, they
serve to provide initial awareness of concepts and to stimulate more complete situational analysis.
The Role of Pharmacists in the Fight Against COVID-19
Authors: Chahine Elias B.
Published: October 2021

COVID-19 is a respiratory infection caused by SARSCoV-2, a newly identified coronavirus. The disease has
quickly spread throughout the world and was declared a pandemic. Older people and those with comorbid
conditions carry the highest burden of morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19. As the most
accessible health care professionals, community and ambulatory care pharmacists are well positioned to
respond to this public health crisis by testing eligible patients—recently allowed by federal regulation–
counseling them on treatment options for symptomatic relief, reinforcing prevention measures, and managing
drug shortages. Hospital pharmacists also play an important role by assisting prescribers in selecting the
best treatment regimens for patients, evaluating and securing investigational agents, developing criteria for
drug use, mitigating drug shortages, and preserving personal protective equipment. In addition, long-term
care pharmacists are instrumental in optimizing medication management and developing policies to reduce the
risk of COVID-19 transmission among vulnerable residents.
Romosozumab and Sequential Therapy in Postmenopausal Osteoporosis
Authors: Slaton Rachel M. , Boyd Katie , Iranikhah Maryam
Published: October 2021

OBJECTIVE: To review and summarize studies on the effects of romosozumab as sequential therapy for improvements in bone turnover markers, bone mineral density (BMD), and clinical fracture in postmenopausal (PMP) women.
 DATA SOURCES: A search of PubMed (1966-August
2019) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts (1970-August 2019) was conducted using the MeSH and key word term romosozumab and limited to controlled clinical trials.
 STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: An initial review yielded 12 articles. Articles that did not evaluate
use of romosozumab before or after another osteoporosis treatment were excluded. Five articles that evaluated the effects of sequential treatment with romosozumab in PMP women on bone turnover markers, bone mineral density, and fracture were included in the final review.
 DATA
SYNTHESIS: Romosozumab is a humanized, monoclonal antibody that increases bone formation and reduces bone resorption via inhibition of sclerostin. This inhibition stimulates signaling pathways resulting in increased bone formation, reduced bone resorption and increases in BMD. Romosozumab
is indicated for the treatment of osteoporosis in PMP women who are at high risk for fracture and failed or cannot take other treatments. The current evidence describing the controlled clinical trials that evaluated use of romosozumab in sequence with other therapies for treatment of PMP osteoporosis
is summarized.
 CONCLUSION: An evaluation of studies where romosozumab was used in sequence to other therapies in PMP women showed that it causes significant reductions in bone resorption markers, increases in bone-formation markers, improves BMD, and reduces the risk of clinical
fracture. However, these efficacy improvements must be carefully weighed against the increased risk of cardiovascular adverse effects compared with other treatments.
Adverse Events in Older Adults Taking Fluoroquinolones
Authors: Leipold Angelyn , Grupa Taylor , Swanoski Michael
Published: October 2021

The Food and Drug Administration issued several warnings recently regarding the use of fluoroquinolones because of a variety of serious toxicities. Risk for serious adverse reactions increases in older people because of the physiologic changes that come with aging, the increased likelihood
of concurrent comorbidities, and the use of multiple medications. Because of these risk-enhancing factors, fluoroquinolone use, particularly in older people, should be scrutinized and used only when no other therapeutic alternatives exist. Pharmacists can have an impact on fluoroquinolone
prescribing and use; therefore, they can optimize patient outcomes by reducing the potential for harm caused by fluoroquinolone use in older people.
Incorporating Pharmacist Interns Into a Study of Fall-Risks
Authors: Vickery P. Brittany , Ginn Greg , Vickery Stephen B.
Published: October 2021

INTRODUCTION: Inpatient falls continue to have detrimental effects on patient care and recovery. Because controllable and uncontrollable factors impact fall rates, predicting which patients are at the greatest risk can be challenging. One method includes the incorporation of
student learners to help identify which patients are at the greatest risk for falls.
 OBJECTIVE: To generate a scoring metric and investigate its reliability for appropriately identifying geriatric and medical psychiatric patients at risk for falling while hospitalized.

METHODS: In this single-center, quasi-experimental study, pharmacist-interns led a fall-prevention initiative at a community hospital within two behavioral health units.
 RESULTS: A total of 96 patients were analyzed over the study period, revealing no notable trends
for either geriatric or medical psychiatric patients. There was no significant change in the odds of falling for each fall score point increase for either the geriatric-psychiatric unit (odds ratio [OR] = 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.83-1.08) or the medical-psychiatric unit (OR = 1.11;
95% CI 0.91-1.36).
 CONCLUSION: This pharmacist-intern-led falls-prevention initiative did not provide a statistically significant reduction in falls. While the scoring metric was helpful in reviewing charts to make recommendations for interventions, the assigned score did
not correlate as expected to incidents of falls.
Unleashing Our Potential— Pharmacists' Role in Vaccination and Public Health
Authors: Poudel Arjun , Lau Esther T. L. , Campbell Chris , Nissen Lisa M.
Published: October 2021

One of the greatest innovations in health care has been the development of vaccines and immunization programs that have significantly minimized the morbidity and mortality resulting from vaccine preventable diseases. While vaccines were traditionally used against infectious diseases,
recent advances in technology have led to the development of vaccines for noncommunicable diseases and chronic conditions. Vaccinations are considered the most cost-effective intervention in public health that has the potential to save millions of lives every year. Despite the availability
and effectiveness of vaccines for many diseases, immunization programs, and service uptake remain underused in many countries. This is mainly because of the lack of easy access to vaccinations, risk-benefit perceptions, false beliefs, and concerns about the side effects. Vaccine hesitancy—the
reluctance or refusal to vaccinate, is listed as one of the top 10 threats to global health.
Pharmacy Education in the Time of COVID-19: In Chaos, There is Opportunity
Authors: Alderman Chris
Published: October 2021

In these unprecedented times, we need to examine how to adjust our industries and enterprises, including the interlinked areas of health and education, to better respond to the needs that have arisen with the ongoing pandemic.
Quality Use of Medicines and the Treatment of Depression in Older People
Authors: Alderman Chris
Published: October 2021

Though the Quality Use of Medicines (QUM) principles have withstood the test of time, there are a number of challenges health care professionals face in today's society. An updated QUM framework would better reflect the current challenges we face.
Comparative incidence of adverse drug reaction during the first and subsequent year of antiretroviral therapy in a Nigerian HIV infected cohort
Authors: O Abah Isaac , D Dayom Wetkos , A Dangiwa Dauda , Aderemi-Williams Roseline , Anejo-Okopi Joseph , O Agbaji Oche , Kanki Phyllis , C Aguiyi John
Published: October 2021

Background: Despite close to two decades of antiretroviral therapy (ART) in Nigeria, data on late on-onset ART-associated adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are sparse.

Objectives: To describe early and late-onset ADRs and compare their incidence in an outpatient HIV positive Cohort on ART.

Method: We described the incidence of clinical ADRs identified and documented in an outpatient clinic cohort of HIV-pos- itive patients treated between June 2004 and December 2015 at a tertiary health facility in Nigeria. Incidence rates of ADRs during the first and subsequent years of ART were compared.

Results: of the 13,983 patients’ data analyzed, 9317 were females (66%), and those in the age bracket of 25 to 45 years made up 78% of the studied population. During 52,411 person-years (py) of ART, 1485 incident ADRs were recorded; Incidence rate (IR) 28.3 (95% confidence interval [CI] 26.9:29.8) ADRs per 1000 person-years (py) of ART. The IR of ADRs was about two times higher in the first year of ART compared to subsequent years of treatment; crude incidence rate ratio (IRR) 1.77 (95% CI 1.59:1.97). Anemia, hypersensitivity reactions, and nervous system disorders had 7, 23, and 5 times higher incidence, respectively, in the first year of therapy, compared to subsequent years.

Conclusion: The first year of ART is the period of highest risk of ADRs. Individual and programmatic treatment success in resource-limited settings requires strategies for early identification and management of ADR during the period of greatest risk of ADRs.

Keywords: Adverse drug events; antiretroviral therapy; drug toxicity; sub- Saharan Africa.
Knowledge, attitude, and preferred strategies towards HIV/AIDS prevention among adolescents attending secondary schools in South Western Uganda
Authors: Beebwa Esther , Muzoora Conrad , Ashaba Scholastic , Groves Sara , Atwine Fortunate
Published: October 2021

Background: Globally, HIV/AIDS continues to rise among adolescents. Ugandan studies have examined knowledge and attitudes regarding HIV/AIDS among adult populations. This study specifically paid attention to this particular age group of adolescents 12-19 years.

Aim: To explore HIV knowledge and attitudes among adolescents attending secondary schools Mbarara Uganda.

Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted in three secondary schools in South Western Uganda. Forty eight (48) adolescents with age range between 12-19 years were purposively recruited in the study. Data were collected from six focus groups and analyzed thematically. Ethical approval received from MUST (#05/10-17) and UNSCT (#SS4535) review committees.

Results: Four themes emerged: Knowledge about HIV, sources of information, attitudes towards persons with HIV and prevention strategies. Most adolescents had the basic knowledge of HIV from multiple sources like social media, health workers, peers, and parents. Their attitudes toward individuals with HIV included compassion, shock, and uneasiness. Par- ticipants suggested prevention programs to be implemented in the schools emphasizing HIV education, life skills, sex edu- cation and the formation of peer groups.

Conclusions: The findings showed that most participants had knowledge about HIV and how it can be prevented however few had knowledge gap thinking that HIV does not exist.

Keywords: Adolescents; attitudes; knowledge; HIV/AIDS; prevention.
Diphtheria serology in adults in Central Java and East Java, Indonesia: the importance of continuous diphtheria vaccination
Authors: Sunarno  , Asri Febriyani , Subangkit  , Mursinah  , Herna  , Nike Susanti , Kambang Sariadji , Widoretno  , Dwi Febriyana , Tati Febrianti , Ratih Dian Saraswati , Nelly Puspandari
Published: October 2021

Background: Vaccination increase immunity against diphtheria, yet will decrease by aging. Therefore, boosters are needed to be done regularly.

Objectives: This study aims to determine the immunity to diphtheria for the population of 16 years old and above.

Methods: The sample of study were 295 collected blood serums by Riskesdas project in 2013, the criteria was above 15 years of age and originating from the Provinces of Central Java or East Java inclusively. Immunity assessment was based on antibody titer (IgG) against diphtheria using Vero Cell cytotoxicity test. Statistical analysis was performed using the X2 test.

Results: The full protective IgG titer (>0.1 IU/ml) at the age of 16-20 years included 75% sample with a geometric mean titer (GMT) of 0.19 IU/ml. Yet, at the age of 21-60 years and > 60 years, full protective IgG titers only cover 45.5% and 33.3% sample with GMT respectively 0.06 IU / ml. Statistical analysis showed the relationship between age and immune status with p-value 0.003. Otherwise, no relationship between the status of immunity with sex and residency with p-values of 0.16 and 0.43.

Conclusions: The immune status against diphtheria at the age of above 15 years decreases with aging.

Keywords: Adult; diphtheria; Indonesia; serology.
Association of eNOS (G894T, rs1799983) and KCNJ11 (E23K, rs5219) gene polymorphism with coronary artery disease in North Indian population
Authors: Tasleem Raza Syed , P Singh Sachendra , Rizvi Saliha , Zaidi Alina , Srivastava Sanchita , Hussain Arif , Mahdi Farzana
Published: October 2021

Background: Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 11 (KCNJ11) could be the candidate genes for coronary artery disease (CAD). This study investigated the relationship of the eNOS (rs1799983) and KCNJ11 (rs5219) polymorphisms with the presence and severity of CAD in the North Indian pop- ulation.

Methods: This study included 300 subjects, 150 CAD cases and 150 healthy controls. Single nucleotide polymorphism was evaluated by Polymerase chain reaction and Restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). Analysis was performed by SPSS (version 21.0).

Results: We observed that KK genotype of KCNJ11E23K (rs5219) polymorphism (P=0.0001) genotypes and K allele (P=0.0001) was found to be a positive risk factor and strongly associated with CAD. In the case of eNOSG894T (rs1799983) there was no association found with CAD.

Conclusion: These results illustrate the probability of associations between SNPs and CAD although specific genetic pol- ymorphisms affecting ion channel function and expression have still to be clarified by further investigations involving larger cohorts.

Keywords: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD); endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS); potassium voltage-gated channel subfamily J member 11 (KCNJ11); gene polymorphism.
Knowledge and practices of physicians on blood component therapy: a cross-sectional study from two tertiary hospitals in Nigeria
Authors: Obi Esther , Diette-spiff Claudius , Omunakwe Hannah
Published: October 2021

Introduction: Comprehension of blood component therapy (BCT) has profound impact on transfusion outcomes. Varia- tions from the standards in practices of BCT may jeopardize patient care.

Aim: To assess the understanding and implementation of BCT by physicians.

Methods: The study was carried out at two tertiary health care centres. It was a descriptive cross- sectional study using a self-administered, questionnaire comprising of 30 questions.

Result: A total of 265 physicians responded from various clinical specialties. Physicians studied showed remarkable knowl- edge (98%) of BCT. Nevertheless, 92.8% of the respondents' were inclined to prescribing whole blood and the common- est reason given was ready availability at the blood bank. More than half of the respondents' have prescribed BCT with sedimented red cells and platelet concentrates being the most frequently prescribed blood components. Non-availability of blood components and cost implications were some of the identified limitations to the use of BCT.

Conclusion: Majority of the physicians have a good knowledge concerning BCT. Nonetheless, there was a knowledge-prac- tice mismatch attributable to the unavailability of the various blood components limiting optimal practice of BCT. Strategies should be formulated to overcome these identified challenges to ensure quality transfusion services in our healthcare facil- ities.

Keywords: Physicians; blood component therapy; blood transfusion; blood components; knowledge.
Polymorphism in the TP63 gene imparts a potential risk for leukemia in the North Indian population
Authors: Bhat Amrita , Bhat Gh. Rasool , Verma Sonali , Shah Ruchi , Nagpal Ashna , Sharma Bhanu , Bakshi Divya , Suri Jyotsna , Singh Supinder , Tanwar Mukesh , Vaishnavi Samantha , Bhat Audesh , Kumar Rakesh
Published: October 2021

Background: The role of single nucleotide polymorphism rs10937405 (C>T) of the TP63 gene in cancer including leu- kemia has previously been studied in different world populations; however, the role of this variant in leukemia in the North Indian population of Jammu and Kashmir is still unknown.

Objectives: In the present study, we investigated the association of genetic variant rs10937405 with leukemic in the Jammu and Kashmir population.

Methods: A total of 588 subjects, (188 cases and 400 controls) were recruited for the study. The rs10937405 variant was genotyped by using the real-time based TaqMan assay.

Results: A statistically significant association was observed between the rs10937405 and leukemia [OR of 1.94 (95% CI 1.51-2.48), p=1.2x10-6].

Conclusion: The current study concludes that the rs10937405 variant is a risk factor for the development of leukemia in the population of Jammu and Kashmir, North India. However, it would be interesting to explore the contribution of this variant in other cancers as well. Our findings will help in the development of diagnostic markers for leukemia in the studied population and potentially for other North Indian populations.

Keywords: Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNPs); Leukemia; North Indian population; Tumour suppressor (TP63); Linkage Disequilibrium (LD); Genome wide association studies (GWAS); Jammu and Kashmir (J &K).
Factors associated with delayed uptake of cataract surgery among adult patients at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda
Authors: O Sebabi Francis , O Okello Walter , Nakubulwa Faith , Sempindu Rogers , Driciru Catherine , Nalukenge Caroline , Mulinde Ben , Nakiyingi Lydia , Nakanjako Damalie , N Ssali Grace , A Musika Anne
Published: October 2021

Background: Cataract is the leading cause of blindness globally. Many patients with cataract in developing countries delay to come for cataract surgery.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the factors associated with delayed uptake of cataract surgery among adult pa- tients seen at Mulago National Referral Hospital eye clinic in Uganda.

Methods: Employing a hospital based cross-sectional study, adult patients with cataract and having moderate visual impair- ment or blindness were recruited. Patient-related factors for delayed surgery were assessed using a predetermined question- naire. Data was analyzed using stata version 14.2. Logistic regressions were used to determine the factors associated with delayed uptake of cataract surgery among these patients.

Results: Eighty two participants with operable cataract were evaluated. Females were 44 (54%) and the mean age of partic- ipants was 67 years. Fifty three (65%) had delayed uptake of cataract surgery. The factors associated with delayed uptake of cataract surgery among patients with cataract were financial constraint, felt no need for surgery and good unilateral vision.

Conclusions: Financial constraints, no felt need for cataract surgery and having good unilateral vision are the factors asso- ciated with delayed uptake of cataract surgery among cataract patients. We recommend cataract surgical outreach to remote areas and health education.

Keywords: Risk factors; operable cataract; cataract; surgery; Uganda; sub-Saharan Africa.
Current fertility desire and its associated factors among currently married eligible couples in urban and rural area of Puducherry, south India
Authors: Kumar Saya Ganesh , Cheriyath Premarajan Kariyarath , Roy Gautam , Sarkar Sonali , Sekhar Kar Sitanshu , Ulaganeethi Revathi , Jose Olickal Jeby
Published: October 2021

Background: There are paucity of studies on current fertility desire at community level.

Objective: To assess current fertility desire and its associated factors among eligible couples of reproductive age group in Puducherry, India.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study from 2016 to 2017 among 2228 currently married eligible couples assessed socio-demographic and fertility-related factors associated with fertility desire. Data were collected based on the National Family Health Survey questionnaire. Association of fertility desire was assessed by univariate and generalised linear regression analysis.

Results: Out of 1979 respondents, current fertility desire within two years was 13.7% (95% CI, 12.3%-15.3%). Mean number of children (SD) currently living and preferred was 1.77(0.851) and 2.11 (0.528) respectively. After adjusting for confounders, the significant factors positively associated with fertility desire include woman's age of 18–24 (APR = 2.91), 25-29 years (APR=2.48), 30-34 (APR=2.47), 35-39(APR=2.06), high socioeconomic status (APR=2.02), those without child (APR=52.35) and those with one child (APR=35.60).

Conclusion: The fertility desire is comparatively lesser than other areas. Those without or with a single child and high so- cio-economic status group had comparatively more fertility desire.

Keywords: Fertility desire; eligible couples; India.
Prevalence and associated factors of HIV-TB co-infection among HIV patients: a retrospective Study
Authors: A Zeru Melkamu
Published: October 2021

Background: TB/HIV co-infection is a major public health problem in many parts of the world. But the prevalence of co-infection was varies among countries. This study was designed to assess prevalence of TB/HIV co-infection and to determine its factors.

Methods: A retrospective study was done among HIV-positive patients at Hiwot Fana hospital from December, 2014 to 2018. The study participants were selected by simple random sampling. Patients with incomplete chart reviews were exclud- ed and demographic, clinical and laboratory information were analyzed using SPSS and STATA. Uni-vitiate and bivariate logistic regressions were applied.

Results: Five hundred fourteen patients were enrolled in this study. Of these, 187(37.4%) had TB. Bivariate logistic analysis showed that HIV patients with regards to marital status[AOR = 2.6; 95%CI = 1.19- 2.89] , education status [AOR = 3.74; 95%CI = 2.47–5.66], weight less than 50kg [AOR = 2.54; 95% CI = 1.35 – 4.81], CD4 level < 200cells/mm3 [AOR = 4.57; 95%CI = 2.38– 6.86] and patient who were at WHO clinical stage III [AOR = 7.8; 95%CI = 5.15 – 8.55] were significantly associated with TB/HIV co-infection.

Conclusion: The prevalence of TB among HIV patients was high and predicted by marital, education status, weight, CD4 cell count and WHO clinical stage III.

Keywords: Prevalence; TB; HIV; co-infection; Harari Region.
Growth of small and medium-sized agricultural enterprises and export market integration by smallholder farmers
Authors: Dagbelou V.K. , Adekambi S.A. , Yabi J.A.
Published: October 2021

Small and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) growth and survival constitute opportunities for the smallholders to become integrated into the export market. Smallholders can gain additional incomes from their transactions with SMEs and in turn, poverty problem could be alleviated. This article aims to better understand how export SMEs’ growth and survival strengthens smallholders’ market integration development and livelihood improvement. We collected data from 52 SMEs involved in the cassava and shea butter sectors in Benin. Interviews were organized, based on the need of value market access, with cassava producers in the Center Region, and women collecting and transforming shea nuts into butter in the Center and Northern Regions. When developing the measurement instrument, its validity and trustworthiness are concerned. SPSS was used for descriptive statistics and R was used for Multiple Correspondence Factor Analysis. Results suggest that 96% of SMEs exporting firms perceived exporting as profitable and resources generation tool. 95% of smallholders appreciate SMEs as value added markets for their products. SMEs are institutional context for smallholders exchange experience in value added process, customers’ needs and expectations satisfaction. They earn more profits from their selling when export SMEs grow and survive. Growth and survival are explained by export selling, share of exporting in total selling, satisfaction of Teklehaimanot exporting, manager perception of success and profitability and export profit.
Bio-enhanced removal of hydrocarbon contents from spent engine oil contaminated soil using Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus co-culture
Authors: Adeleye A.O. , Yerima M.B. , Nkereuwem M.E. , Onokebhagbe V.O. , Sadiq I.S. , Amoo A.O. , Bate G.B. , Shiaka G.P. , Raji M.
Published: October 2021

The study assessed the removal of total petroleum hydrocarbon (TPH) and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) from spent engine oil (SEO) contaminated soil through bioenhancement of bacteria isolated from SEO polluted soil. Sterilized soil was subjected to a three level of SEO contamination before the addition of sterilized biostimulants including powdered cow dung (CD), powdered cocoa pod husk (CPH) and compost (made from fresh CPH and CD). Bacterial inoculum being Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus co-culture (150 mL) was added to the mixture in polyethylene bags. It was a factorial experiment that was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD). The TPH and PAHs were estimated in the first day, fifth week and the tenth week that the room incubation lasted. Results generated from the influence of biostimulants on TPH and PAHs degradation potential of the bacterial co-culture showed that degradation of the hydrocarbon contents was significantly enhanced (p < 0.05). At the tenth week, compost enhanced the most TPH reductions (315 and 380 mg kg–1) compared with other biostimulants on 5% and 15% SEO contamination levels, respectively. Compost equally enhanced the most PAHs reductions (48.8, 39.6 and 94.6 mg kg–1) compared with other biostimulants on 5%, 10% and 15% SEO contamination levels respectively. However, the quantity of SEO contents degraded was significantly higher in the bioaugmented and biostimulated soil samples compared with the control employed. The technology adopted in this study can be effectively employed for the bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbon related pollution.
Effect of varying the concentration of sulphuric acid and ammonium hydroxide on the release of cellulose from isolated cell wall component of corn cob
Authors: Yakubu Safiya , Anas Ya’u , Ibrahim Halima , Abdullahi Fati Ahmed , Dalhatu Aisha Sani
Published: October 2021

The scarcity and high price associated with fossil fuel has urged countries to research resources for alternative energy sources. Biofuels like bioethanol produced from lignocellulosic biomass (corn cob) were considered potential alternative. Cellulose composition from isolated cell wall material of corn cobs was investigated under two different pre-treatments using H2SO4 and NH4OH at varying concentrations of 5%, 10%, 20%, 30% and 40%. Cell wall not treated acted as control. Colorimetric anthrone-assay followed by absorbance reading at 625nm revealed that glucose is present in reasonable amount in corn cob. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated significant differences among pre-treated compared to untreated (Control) corn cob samples at p≤0.05. Acid pre-treatment showed better glucose yield compared to alkali pre-treatment with results revealing 20% (19.37µg/ml) H2SO4 to be the optimal concentration producing highest glucose yield. The study reveals the potential of corn cob as a lignocellulosic feed stock for biofuel production.
Economic analysis of improved variety of groundnut production in north-western Nigeria
Authors: Ojedokun A.O.
Published: October 2021

This research was conducted to analyse the economics of improved  groundnut seeds’ production in North-Western, Nigeria. A multi-stage  sampling technique was employed for this study. Data were collected from 125 producers of improved variety of groundnut seeds in Bunkure Local Government Area (LGA) of Kano State using well-structured questionnaire. The data collected were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The descriptive statistics result revealed that respondents were active, mostly males and that they were mostly literate. The result revealed that the marketing of improved variety of groundnut seeds was efficient and that the enterprise was considered viable. Age, household size, farm size and access to credit were the factors that influenced the net marketing margin to producers of improved groundnut seeds. The study recommends that adequate credit facilities should be made available and improved variety of groundnut seeds should be subsidized so that producers can be motivated to use and adopt them.
Гендерные исследования в Центарльной Азии, Казахстанский кейс
Authors: А.К. Сабитова
Published: October 2021

В этой статье передается взгляды автора по состояниям гендерных исследований в Центральной Азии, особенно Казахстана. Размышляется о целях, результатах и эффектах проведенных исследований с периода независимотии страны. Одними из важных публичных исследований являются гендерные исследования как новая научная область и дисциплина высшего образования. Авторка приходит к выводу, что проект институциализации гендерных исследований не увенчался успехом в Центральной Азии
SOME ETHICAL ASPECTS OF FEMINISM AND EMANSIPATION
Authors: Michael Domansky
Published: October 2021

Since its birth, feminism has been closely associated with emancipation. And now it is understood primarily as the liberation of women from discrimination, other trends remain, rather, the exception. Moreover, liberation as a goal is rarely called into question. At the same time, freedom is an ethical category, and the desire for liberation inevitably raises moral questions. Therefore, the connection between feminism and ethics is not accidental. The topics that I want to touch on are, in my opinion, key to understanding this connection. I will begin the discussion with what exactly feminism seeks to free itself from, and for this I will remind you of some facts of female discrimination.

Most women in modern society are overburdened with double work: housework and work to earn financial security. As a result, they give up their careers for the careers of a husband. Well, if he understands this, and if he considers his personal success as a result of joint efforts, and not just his talent. The burden of homework interferes with both professional growth and political activity. If a woman, not neglecting her two works, begins to engage in politics, then this activity - participation in rallies, congresses, the search for sponsors and maintaining relations with them, participation in elections - becomes her third job. It is not surprising that in such a situation, women rarely achieve leadership positions, both in government and in business. Needless to say, double loading leaves few opportunities for continuing education.