bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design and Fabrication of a New Filament, PLA with PTFE as Fillers, for Water Repellent Surfaces
Authors: Molero Esther , Torres Belén , Rodríguez-Alabanda Oscar , Guerrero-Vacas Guillermo
Published: September 2023

The use of additive manufacturing by fused deposition is a versatile, cost-effective and simple prototyping and manufacturing technique that is generating and accelerating a revolution in equipment and filaments. However, materials are limited to a small number of polymers. It is a scientific challenge to bring new characteristics and properties to the parts obtained. In this work, a new filament has been designed with the combination of PLA (poly lactic acid) as matrix and PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) as filler. This filament has improved the water repellency of the parts obtained. Cleaning, demoulding, anti-adherence, anti-frost, anti-humidity and anti-bacterial applications can be deployed with this new filament. Extruded filaments have been obtained with PLA beads and PTFE micropowder. Flat test tubes have been produced with this filament. The experiments included PTFE fillers (1% to 40% by weight). The surfaces have been characterised by sliding angle (SA) and static contact angle (CA) tests, surface roughness (Sa and Sz), flatness error and % water adsorption. The results indicate, as expected, that the higher the fluoropolymer content, the higher the hydrophobicity, reaching values of 125° for CA and 9° for SA, and the % adsorption decreases. In terms of roughness, the surfaces are less rough when the PTFE load increases. On the other hand, the flatness is a property strongly affected by the % PTFE load and at values higher than 15% it produces intense warping and deformation of the specimens. Finally, the PTFE loading thresholds in the PLA matrix have been obtained below which the wettability and dimensional reproduction properties are balanced and optimal.
The Utilization of N-Butanol to Olefins over Different Zeolite Structures
Authors: Suksamran Pattrakorn , Tontisirin Supak
Published: September 2023

Bioalcohol is one of reliable renewable energy source in the future bioeconomy. Butanol is the next generation bioalcohol because of better quality comparing to lower-carbon alcohols. Its utilization to lower olefins opens the new route as chemical building blocks for polymer and value-added chemical production (instead of fossil fuel route). The n-butanol conversion to olefins was conducted over two different zeolite structures: ZSM-5 and SAPO-34. The small-pore 8-ring SAPO-34 produced exclusively C4 in the products (more than 97%) and showed high selectivity to butene. The large-pore 10-ring ZSM-5 gave lower yield of C4 and more classes toward larger hydrocarbon (C5-C12), which including aromatics and cyclic products. The SAPO-34 is suggested as promising shape-selective catalyst in the n-butanol conversion to butene product. The high purity butene can be used directly without further energy-consuming separation process.
Estimation of Planar and Normal Anisotropy Parameters of Al 8011 Sheets as Cold Rolled and Cold Rolled with Annealed Condition
Authors: Chaudhari Rajesh , Joshi Ojas , Dargad Neeraj , Jain Ayush , Gaikwad Jaideep
Published: September 2023

Aluminium 8011 cast plates subjected to cold rolling to reduce thickness from 12 mm to 3.5 sheets. As rolled aluminium sheet was subjected to annealing treatment after rolling. This work deals with the study of planar and normal anisotropy parameters of as rolled aluminium and rolled with annealed aluminium sheets. The tensile test samples were cut at 0°, 30°, 45°, 60° and 90° with respect to the rolling direction of as rolled Al sheet and rolled with annealed Al sheet. Tensile properties were measured at different orientations to the rolling directions. The wide variation in tensile strength was found in case of as rolled Al samples at different orientation to rolling direction of sheet (208 to 243 MPa). On the other hand nearly uniform tensile strength (128 MPa to 132 MPa) was measured for rolled and annealed Al samples at different orientations. As rolled Al samples shows anisotropic tensile properties where as isotropic tensile properties were measured for rolled with annealed Al samples. Al grains are more elongated along the rolling directions where as rolled and annealed Al sample shows more equiaxed grains which is attributed to isotropic behaviour of Al sheets. The normal anisotropy parameter or average rm value is higher (1.24) in case of rolled and annealed sheet sample as compared to as rolled Al sheet rm value (1.06). This is attributed to isotropic behaviour of rolled and annealed samples. Toughness and ductility properties are improved more than 3 times in case of rolled and annealed Al sheet samples. Annealing treatment of rolled Al sheet samples shows elongated grain morphology changes to equiaxed grains of aluminum which tends to improved formability and isotropic mechanical properties Al sheet. For determination of normal anisotropy (rm) value, tensile results R values are required at angles of 0 degrees, 45 degrees, and 90 degrees. However in this study additional R values are estimated at 30 degree and 60 degree in order to understand trend of R value at every 30 degree from 0 to 90 degree.
Neural Network Approach on Influence of Ceramics on Dry Sliding Wear in Al-Cu-Zr Metal Matrix Composite
Authors: Pandiaraj V. , Vivek C.M. , Thiyagarajan R. , Iyyappan M. , Bharath M. , Kaviyarasan G.
Published: September 2023

This research aims to investigate the dry sliding wear behavior of Al-Cu-Zr (ACZ) metal matrix composite (MMC) at various Aluminium oxide (AOX) Nano particles compostion. ACZ alloy is widely used in on road and space mobility applications where the focus is on wear resistance. To enhance the resistance towards wear, Al alloy is reinforced with AOX nanoparticles at 3%, 6%, and 9% addition using stir casting process. The wear assessment is conducted at varying Composition (COMP), load (LD), speed (Ns), and sliding distance (SLDN). The wear rate (WRT) and Frictional force (FRFC) are analysed for different process parameters. To optimize the experiments, Taguchi signal-to-noise ratio (STNR) is used. Taguchi analysis show that the optimal conditions for minimum WRT and FRFC are at 6% AOX addition, 12.5 N load, 500 rpm speed, and 35 mm SLDN. Furthermore, an artificial neural network model (ANNM) is developed to forecast the WRT and FRFC. The neural network model is trained using the experimental data and the optimized process parameters. The neural network is a powerful tool that can learn the complex relationship between input and output variables. The model is validated using the experimental data, and the results show that the neural network model can predict the WRT and coefficient of friction with high accuracy. The Taguchi optimization and neural network model can provide a systematic approach to optimizing the process parameters and predicting the WRT and coefficient of friction. This approach can be applied to other materials and processes to improve their performance and reduce costs.
Effects of Plasticizers on Physical and Mechanical Properties of Tamarind Kernel Powder Film
Authors: Phumkacha Anon , Leejarkpai Thanawadee , Kirdponpattara Suchata
Published: September 2023

A plasticizer is one of the essential substances for biopolymer film fabrication. Generally, plasticizers enhance the elasticity of the film by interrupting the hydrogen bonds of the polymer chains. Different types and amounts of plasticizers play important roles in the mechanical properties of the biopolymer film. Glycerol and sorbitol are the most popular plasticizers for biopolymer film production because of their safety for use as food additives (approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration, FDA) and cost-effectiveness. The objective of this research is to study the influence of glycerol and sorbitol on the properties of the biopolymer film fabricated from tamarind kernel powder (TKP). The plasticizer content was controlled at 5% w/w. The weight ratio between glycerol and sorbitol was varied as 5:0, 4:1, 3:2, 2.5:2.5, 2:3, 1:4, and 0:5, respectively. The physical characteristics of the films were analyzed. The results demonstrated that glycerol and sorbitol improved the mechanical properties of the biopolymer film differently. The TKP film supplemented with glycerol and sorbitol could be a potential candidate for food packaging.
Influence of Design Parameters and Materials on the Performance of Closed-Wall Lattice Structures
Authors: De la Rosa Sergio , Mayuet Pedro Francisco , Silva Cátia , Sampaio Álvaro M. , Rodríguez-Parada Lucía
Published: September 2023

The design flexibility of Additive manufacturing (AM) processes combined with optimal structure selection has greatly expanded the research for lattice like structures. The development of elastic materials such as Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) was enhanced by the existence of compatible additive technologies, which resulted in the interest in the inclusion of this material in all types of product and industrial applications. Several studies established the critical role in the influence on the performance of elastic structures powered by changes in geometrical and manufacturing parameters. These findings enhanced the possibility of designing lattice like structures with different performances in order to be implemented in several applications with specific elastic needs. Therefore, the objective of this work focused on the characterization of closed-wall lattice structures through the analysis of the performance as a function of the design parameters and material used. In this way, several lattice structures were manufactured and tested. The results showed a correlation between the geometric variables and specimen’s stiffness. A substantial variation of the stiffness as a function of the thickness of the unit cell and the height of the layer was found. Same stiffness values can be achieved using different materials and geometric parameters. Similar stiffness values using recycled materials obtained favorable results.
Prediction of Surface Roughness of Monel k 500 Super Alloy by Using Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Ganesh V. Dilli , Bommi R.M
Published: September 2023

The surface roughness is a feature that is of tremendous relevance in the assessment of cutting performance, and it plays an essential part in the manufacturing process as well. In this research, an effort was made to construct a model based on artificial neural networks to replicate the hard turning of Monel K 500 in dry conditions. The results of this endeavor are presented. This model is anticipated to accurately estimate the surface roughness for various cutting settings. Networks that use Scaled Conjugate Gradient (SCG) were trained using a set of training data for several cycles. Then they were tested with a collection of input/output data that was specifically reserved for this purpose. For each of the designs that were considered, the root mean square error was calculated. As compared with other models, the RMSE that the SCG Produces better value-. Analysis was done on the ability of the ANN model to predict surface roughness (Ra). It was discovered that the predictions produced by the ANN model had a high degree of congruence with the experiment’s findings.
Silk Fibroin/PLA 3D Printed Composite Stent Fabricated through Direct Ink Write Technology
Authors: Casanova-Batlle Enric , Bosch Aniol , Guerra Antonio J. , Ciurana Joaquim
Published: September 2023

Bioresorbable alternatives are emerging on the market as alternatives to the cardiovascular stents that are implanted nowadays. Permanent drug-eluting stents are no longer the only viable option during an angioplasty surgical procedure. The new generation of medical stents aims to degrade the device within the artery walls after its function has been completed. In this context, biological materials that degrade inside the body without creating toxic residues such as silk fibroin (SF) are very promising materials for such applications. Moreover, SF has been reported to have non-thrombogenic properties and to reduce the immune response compared to other synthetic polymers, making it ideal for this application. SF has been printed through additive manufacturing techniques such as direct ink write. This study proposes to fabricate a composite stent by combining polylactic acid (PLA) and SF. In this way, it is expected to obtain a stent with potential for a two-phase drug release. A fast burst with the degradation of the SF and a slower drug release period with the degradation of the PLA. For this purpose, stents were fabricated with a PLA and chloroform ink (24.5 % w/v). The last layer of the stent was fabricated with a SF water-based ink at 56.69-60.09 % w/w. Finally, the stents were immersed at different times in ethanol and exposed to 30' of ultraviolet light for sterilization purposes. The degradation results indicate that 24h is sufficient to degrade almost completely the last layer of SF. These results are significant as the SF layer could potentially be used as a carrier for drug delivery, providing biocompatibility and drug release at the earliest post-intervention stage.
Parametric Study of Functional Components Obtained by Additive Manufacturing Fused Filament Fabrication
Authors: Jesus Daniel , Relvas Carlos , Ramos António Manuel
Published: September 2023

Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF) is a growing additive manufacturing technology for various applications in the engineering field. The mechanical properties of 3D printed materials in FFF technology depends on various parameters and the literature suggests that infill pattern and infill density are the parameters that most affect the mechanical properties of 3D printed parts.These factors have direct influence on the time of production and amount of material used. In this work it was analyzed the influence of infill parameter on stiffness of the final parts, considering the printing time and amount material used. For this purpose, the Taguchi method was used and then the statistical method of ANOVA to calculate the influence of each parameter.Test specimens were printed according to ASTM Standard D790 dimensions, in Polyethylene terephthalate glycol (PETG). The specimens were printed in the same position on the printing bed to reduce as much as possible the influence of external factors on the results. A visual and dimensional inspection of the specimens was carried out for further analysis. The best combination between production and stiffness, with 350 MPa/mm, was obtained with 15% infill density, concentric pattern, 45º orientation, with 4 perimeters path, layer thickness of 0.1 mm and speed of 45 mm/s. The results obtained allow us a broader view of how to save 3D printing time and the amount of material consumed during the production of a part.
Continental concerted efforts to control the seventh outbreak of Ebola Virus disease in Uganda: The first 90 days of the response
Authors: Aceng Jane R. , Bosa Henry K. , Kamara Neema , Atwine Diana , Mwebesa Henry , Nyika Howard , Maureen Katusiime , Olaro Charles , Kagirita Atek , Larmode Mohammed , Riek Lul P. , Temfack Elvis , Salyer Stephanie , Aliddeki Dativa , Machingaidze Shingai , Mazuguni Festo , Kirenga Bruce , Muttamba Winters , Wayengera Misaki , Bbuye Mudashir , Kasambula Arthur , Eurien Daniel , Grace Akello , Ampaire Ingrid , Herbert Isabirye , Tut Mathew , Bangure Donewell , Mankoula Wessam , Sonko Ibrahima , Kokou Alinon N. , Magodi Simon , Mhiraf Addis , Bulwadda Daniel , Kyabayinze Daniel , Kabami Zainah , Muruta Allan , Bahatungire Rony , George Upentho , Nabadda Susan , Birungi Gloria , Richard Kabanda , Aragaw Merawi , Ouma Ahmed O.
Published: September 2023

On 20th September 2022, Uganda declared the 7th outbreak of Ebola virus disease (EVD) caused by the Sudan Ebola strain following the confirmation of a case admitted at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital. Upon confirmation, the Government of Uganda immediately activated the national incident management system to initiate response activities. Additionally, a multi‑country emergency stakeholder meeting was held in Kampala; convening Ministers of Health from neighbouring Member States to undertake cross‑border preparedness and response actions. The outbreak spanned 69 days and recorded 164 cases (142 confirmed, 22 probable), 87 recoveries and 77 deaths (case fatality ratio of 47%). Nine out of 136 districts were affected with transmission taking place in 5 districts but spilling over in 4 districts without secondary transmission. As part of the response, the Government galvanised robust community mobilisation and initiated assessment of medical counter measures including therapeutics, new diagnostics and vaccines. This paper highlights the response actions that contributed to the containment of this outbreak in addition to the challenges faced with a special focus on key recommendations for better control of future outbreaks.
Public satisfaction with the quality of First Health Facility Services in Indonesia: Does sociodemographic matter?
Authors: Nantabah Zainul Khaqiqi , Mubasyiroh Rofingatul , Kristanto Antonius Yudi , Indrawati Lely , Paramita Astridya , Tjandrarini Dwi Hapsari , Laksono Agung Dwi
Published: September 2023

Objective:

To investigate individual characteristics related to satisfaction with the quality of First Health Facility Services (FHFS) in Indonesia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study analyzes national representation data. Meanwhile, the study involved 9846 representative respondents in 2019. Respondent's satisfaction with FHFS based on the five dimensions of service quality (SERVQUAL) is a dependent variable. Independent variables consist of sex, marital status, age, education, employment, insurance ownership, and economics. The study used multivariate logistic regression to explain the relationship between individual characteristics and FSHS quality.

Results:

77.3% Respondents were satisfied with FHFS, with the highest order of satisfaction dimensions being assurance (59.4%), empathy (57.3%), reliability (53.6%), responsiveness (52.7%), and then tangibility (49.1%). Multivariate logistic analysis showed that divorce was 1.48 more likely than never-married to be satisfied (95% CI 1.17-1.87). Employees were 0.77 less likely than the unemployed to get satisfied (95% CI 0.70-0.86). Respondents with higher education was 0.82 less likely than those with primary education to be satisfied (95% CI 0.67-0.99). Meanwhile, respondents who had government-run insurance were 1.61 more likely than uninsured to be satisfied (95% CI 1.42-1.80). Moreover, the rich were 0.82 less likely than the poor to get satisfied (95% CI 0.73-0.92).

Conclusions:

Community satisfaction with FHFS is generally high, though some areas could be improved. Demographic factors are still strongly related to satisfaction ratings. The government can assess the quality of services in accordance with standards and disseminate information about service standards for primary facilities to all levels of society, ensuring that service satisfaction is rated as good by all groups.
A Free-Floating Internal Carotid Artery Thrombus and Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Nazish Saima , Shahid Rizwana , Hadhiah Kawther , Alatrash Aisha
Published: September 2023

Acute management of stroke with carotid free-floating thrombus (FFT) needs careful monitoring to proactively prevent the additional risk of infarction, and reducing intracranial bleeding is the primary goal. No management guidelines are available for this rare clinical condition. Here we presented a case study of a patient presenting with a carotid FFT with acute left-sided weakness. The patient was managed with anticoagulation alone, and the patient was discharged to return home in stable condition and good functional status with mild disability in the patient's left arm. In conclusion, carotid FFT is a rare clinical condition with underlying heterogeneous etiologies and individual-level bleeding risk stratification. Medical and surgical options are considered on a case-by-case basis.
How Do Hospitals Organize Diabetes Services? A Comparative Study
Authors: Hosseini Seyede-Elahe , Ferdosi Masoud , Raeisi Ahmad R. , Jafari Mehdi
Published: September 2023

Most patients with diabetes will present to hospital for a reason not directly related to their diabetes. When a person with diabetes is not cared for properly, hospitalization can become complicated and lead to worse consequences for the patient. In fact, it is important to know how to manage a diabetic patient while in hospital. Therefore, a special organization is needed in hospitals for adaptation to chronic diseases such as diabetes. This study intends to help hospital adaptation to the special needs of diabetic patients by identifying patterns of care delivery in selected countries. This comparative study was performed in 2021. The data collection was conducted by searching in PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Scopus, Science Direct, Springer, Proquest, and also the websites of the selected countries hospitals. Based on the sampling method, three countries, Turkey, United Kingdom, and the United States, were selected from the countries with eligibility. However, during the study, according to the good practices about special diabetic care of countries such as Australia and Denmark, they were also examined. In this review study, we organized and compared the effective measures taken in selected countries in relation to the management of these patients in the hospital, focusing on the dimensions of service package, human resource, process, structure, equipment/technology, and information system required by diabetic patients.
Patterns of Use and Cessation Services Received for Other Substances in Patients with Alcohol Dependence Syndrome: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Amrita J. , Ramadas Smitha
Published: September 2023

Background:

Alcohol is one of the common substances used in India. Although majority of people with alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS) use other substances, this is underidentified. Thus, a valuable opportunity to offer cessation services for other substances goes unutilized. Extant Indian studies exploring this are scanty.

Aim:

The aim of the study is to analyze the pattern of use and cessation services received for other substances in patients with a primary diagnosis of ADS, admitted to a tertiary care center, in a state with a high per capita consumption of alcohol.

Methods:

After ethical clearance, 100 consecutive consenting male patients with ADS, aged 18–60 years, admitted to a psychiatry ward in a tertiary care center, were selected. Their pattern of use of other substances and cessation services received were studied.

Results:

Majority of the participants had moderate ADS (39%). About 46% of them smoked tobacco, 17% used smokeless form of tobacco, and 6% used both forms. Almost 64% of the participants were dependent on tobacco and the majority had severe dependence. Other substances used were cannabis (6%), benzodiazepines (2%), and opioids (1%). All of them used tobacco in addition. A significant association was noted between the severity of ADS and nicotine use (P = 0.016). Although 77% of participants with ADS used tobacco, only 20% received cessation services for tobacco use.

Conclusion:

Tobacco use in patients with ADS was not adequately identified, losing a golden opportunity to address a substance use with harmful health consequences. Psychiatrists need to be aware of this hidden problem and adopt routine screening for tobacco use in alcohol-dependent patients.
Pattern of suspicious deaths of married females brought for medico-legal autopsy at teaching institute of India
Authors: Parmar Pragnesh B. , Rathod Gunvanti B. , Bansal Prerna , Maru Alpeshkumar M. , Pandya Binita , Bansal Anupam K.
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Death is unnatural and suspicious when it is caused by external causation like injury or poisoning or other than natural course. In such deaths of married females, the inquest is carried out, and a medico-legal autopsy is conducted to ascertain the cause of death and manner of death.

Materials and Methods:

This record-based, retrospective study was carried out at RVRS Medical College, Rajasthan in the year 2021 (1st January, 2021 to 31st December, 2021) to know the pattern of the suspicious death of married females brought for medico-legal autopsy. The inquest report, medico-legal autopsy report, histopathological examination report, and chemical analysis report findings were tabulated and analyzed.

Results:

The maximum number (31.62%) of female deaths belonged to the age group of 18–22 years of age. A total of 33.82% of females died during a marriage duration of less than 5 years of married life. A total of 22.79% of female deaths were related to dowry and 60.2% of females belonged to rural areas. A total of 59.56% of females were died due to poisoning and 75% of female deaths considered suicidal.

Conclusion:

Suspicious deaths of married women brought for medico-legal autopsy must be dealt with due to precaution to determine the cause and manner of death. One must be vigilant that the suspicious death of a married female may be associated with dowry in the Indian scenario.
National viral hepatitis control program in India: Call for update
Authors: Pandey Pragya , Roy Akash , Bhadoria Ajeet Singh
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Viral hepatitis is a serious yet manageable and preventable public health menace that infects about 3 million of people and leads to 1.1 million deaths worldwide every year. An acute episode of viral hepatitis usually subsides on its own, however, if not intervened timely, chronic infection puts people at risk of cirrhosis, liver cancer, and eventually death. In 2015, the global community allied to tackle viral hepatitis, as a result of which combating viral hepatitis target was included in the sustainable development goals (SDGs), and the World Health Organisation (WHO) constituted the first-ever global health sector strategy on viral hepatitis for 2016 to 2021 which is also renewed recently. Conforming to the global commitment, India launched the National Viral Hepatitis Control Program in the year 2018 with the aim to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat by the year 2030. In the Subsequent years, WHO and various other international societies have released updated recommendations with respect to vaccination, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, strategies to increase testing uptake including self-testing, newer diagnostics including point of care and reflex testing approaches, simplified treatment algorithms, expanded treatment eligibility criteria, and simplified service delivery models. With the program being in its fifth year of implementation, there is a need to revamp the operational guidelines based on various global evidence-based advancements in order to attain the ambitious elimination goal by 2030.
Prevalence of goitre and iodine deficiency among school children (6–12 years) in rural areas of North Karnataka, India: A cross-sectional survey, 2016–19
Authors: Prasad U Venkateswara , Vastrad Phaniraj , Chaudhuri Sirshendu , Kirte Rahul , Peerapur Basavraj V. , Kumar G Ajay , Gururaj NA , Patil Kavitha , Yuvaraj BY , Mane Vijaykumar , Itagi Vijayanath , Kesari Pallavi M. , Chillargi Chandrakanth , Goud T. Gangadhara , Sameena M , Dorle AS , Patil Shrinivas K. , Mallapur Ashoka S. , Nair Anish Mohan , Roy Subarna
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Iodine deficiency disorders (IDD) have remained an unresolved public health problem in India. In this survey, we have estimated the prevalence of IDD among 6–12 years of school children in rural areas of north Karnataka, India and estimated the prevalence of low iodine content (<15 ppm) in salt at the household level and urine iodine excretion in this population.

Material and Methods:

In this cross-sectional survey, we recruited 16,827 children between 6 and 12 years of age through multistage sampling from six districts. Goitre was examined clinically for all children. Household-level salt iodine estimation and urinary iodine estimation were carried out among a subset of the participants.

Results:

Overall prevalence of goitre was 17.1% (95% CI: 16.5, 17.7). Out of this, 76.7% (n = 2116) had Grade-1 goitre, and 23.7% (n = 656) had Grade-2 goitre. The prevalence of goitre was higher among females (17.9%, vs. male 16.4%, P < 0.05). The prevalence of low iodine content (<15 ppm) in salt was 48.5% (95%CI: 46.7, 50.3). The overall median iodine excretion in urine was 85 μg/L (IQR: 60–150 μg/L). In total, 37.2% (n = 601) had mild iodine deficiency, 5.2% (n = 84) had moderate deficiency, and 10.1% (n = 163) had severe deficiency. All parameters showed high inter- and intradistrict variations.

Conclusion:

North Karnataka has a high goitre prevalence. Low use of iodized salt can be a major reason for the high prevalence of the condition. Ensuring the availability of iodized salt in this region and periodic surveillance to measure the impact of the programme should be the priority in this region.
Declining high-impact clinical publication rate: A potential contributor to health disparities among persons with developmental and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Dharampuriya Priyanka R. , Singh Neha , Abend Susan L.
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) suffer from stark, well-documented health and healthcare disparities, despite data indicating that the majority see a healthcare provider at least annually. Multiple surveys have indicated that over 90% of physicians feel they have inadequate knowledge and skill in caring for those with IDD. This has been recognized as a key barrier to health equity.

Objective:

To evaluate the content of high-impact clinical literature for a potential cause of clinician knowledge deficits.

Methods:

We performed a bibliometric analysis of publications within major, high-impact general, and specialty clinical journals from 1946 to 2020 to determine the relative frequency of publications regarding IDD and publication rate.

Results:

We observed a significant decline in articles regarding IDD over the past 20 years within high-impact general medical journals, and a significant decline over the past 15 years within high-impact, specialty society-published journals of Psychiatry, Psychology, and Neurology. Furthermore, we observed that high-impact general medical journals devoted a significantly smaller proportion of publication space to articles regarding IDD than they did for conditions with similar prevalence such as HIV/AIDS, breast cancer, and drug abuse.

Conclusion:

The declining rate and low frequency of clinical publications regarding IDD within the major, respected clinical literature may be contributing to physicians’ ability to source evidence-based information, thereby impacting perceptions of skill and knowledge deficits, and therefore may be contributing to healthcare disparities in this population. Well-designed clinical studies that engage persons with IDD may lead to an evidence base within the clinical literature that will improve physician confidence and care quality.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and diabetic retinopathy: Is there an association?
Authors: Jacob Mathew , Joseph Mary , Idiculla Jyothi
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

Studies have not proven whether an association exists between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). The reports from various parts of the world have not used uniform criteria, and hence, results are inconclusive. Both DR and NAFLD are common conditions encountered in primary care.

Methods:

A total of 130 patients with type 2 diabetes from the medical wards of a tertiary care hospital were enrolled. After documentation of clinical and biochemical data, they underwent ultrasonography (USG) of the abdomen and fibroscan grading of liver. Retinopathy was assessed and classified as per the Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study.

Results:

The mean age of the patients included in the study was 46.5+/-8.8 with 55% of the participants being male and 45% female. The mean HbA1c was 7.168+/2.4. The association between DR and hepatic fibrosis was assessed by fibroscan (p 0.003) and USG (p 0.001) and was significant on univariate analysis. Multivariate analysis did not confirm this. There was no association between increasing grades of either condition. Although fibroscan and USG significantly concorded in diagnosing NAFLD, fibroscan diagnosed more cases as compared to USG (83 vs 73).

Conclusion:

Larger studies should be conducted to conclusively determine the association in order to investigate pathogenetic factors and treatment strategies.
Effect of supported sitting position during second stage of labor on its outcome in primigravidae: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Chauhan Jagriti , Vyas Himanshu , Singh Pratibha , Sharma Mukesh C. , Thirunavukkarasu Deviga
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Background:

The childbirth position has a significant influence on labor, maternal comfort, and neonatal outcome. In sitting position, there is a faster fetal descent with the effect of gravity. The information on this subject is relatively scant. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the effect of a supported sitting position during second stage of labor on its outcome in primigravidae.

Materials and Methods:

A quasi-experimental study with a post-test only control group design was used. 60 primigravidae were selected using total enumerative sampling. The labor outcome was assessed by self-structured maternal neonatal outcome checklist and socio-demographic proforma.

Results:

Statistically significant difference was observed on the mean duration of second stage of labor among primigravidae in control and experimental group (t = 5.87, P < 0.001) and also in the APGAR score of newborns (t = -3.98, P < 0.001). A statistical significant association of duration of second stage of labor with height and intensity of maternal work was also observed.

Conclusions:

A supported sitting position during labor was found to be effective in reducing duration of the second stage of labor. This can be used as a nursing intervention while providing care during labor especially at primary healthcare centers that can help in reducing the duration of second stage of labor.
Foot self-care practices among diabetic patients attending a teaching hospital in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Paramasivam Selvam , Ramalingam Govindarajan , Gani A R Parveen
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Diabetes is a common non-communicable disease in the world. Diabetic foot ulcer is a common complication of diabetes mellitus. Awareness and practice of foot self-care play a major role in the prevention of complications due to diabetic neuropathy.

Methods:

Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetic patients from Sep 2022 to Feb 2023. A semi-structured questionnaire containing four parts including socio-demographic including clinical details, questions related to knowledge and practice of foot self-care, and clinical examination was used. Ten grams monofilament and 128 Hz tuning fork were used to assess the sensation of the foot.

Results:

A total of 211 patients were included. The average age was found to be 58.4 ± 10.0 years and the majority were females (64.0%). The mean percentage score of knowledge on diabetes and foot self-care was found to be 59.6 ± 27.5 and 55.1 ± 11.9, respectively. Participants with low knowledge scores and those who do not engage in regular physical activity had significant poor foot care practices. The majority (54.5%) of the participants had at least one of the clinical problems related to diabetic foot. The most common problem was found to be heel fissures (29.4%), followed by deformed nails (15.2%), callus (5.2%), toe web infection (3.3%), and ulcer (2.8%). Monofilament test and vibration was not detectable in 12.3% and 15.2%, respectively.

Conclusion:

More than half of the participants were found to have good diabetic foot self-care practices. Diabetics having good knowledge on foot care and involving in regular physical activity showed good foot self-care practices.
Experiences of hospitalized patients with COVID-19 – A single centre qualitative study
Authors: Shanmugam Karthikeyan , Venkatesan Sandhiya , Ramalingam Sudha , Thangaraj Prabha
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

COVID-19 pandemic caused a huge impact on the healthcare system worldwide. With a spectrum of outcome ranging from mild symptoms to mortality, the experiences of patients admitted in isolation wards have not been documented.

Objective:

To explore the experience of COVID-19 patients during hospitalization during the early phase of pandemic.

Materials and Methods:

A qualitative study using in-depth interviews was conducted among 30 COVID positive patients admitted in COVID wards of a private medical college in Coimbatore, South India between May and June 2020. Qualitative data analysis was done using the seven steps of Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenological method.

Results:

The experiences of COVID-19 patients during their hospitalization were categorized into three themes. Firstly, their initial reaction to being diagnosed positive for COVID-19. Secondly, experience during hospitalization with regards to their mental health, treatment providers, caregivers (family and relatives) and other COVID patients admitted in the same ward. Lastly, perceived change in their quality of life after discharge.

Conclusion:

The study highlights that the psychological experiences of COVID-19 patients admitted to the hospital were heterogeneous. Therefore, primary care physicians should provide individualized psychological interventions based on the needs. Since many expressed fear on diagnosis and stigma of the disease, hence policy makers and health care providers should plan intervention for control and treatment without causing stigma to patients and their families.
Latent tuberculosis infection in health-care workers in the government sector in Brunei Darussalam: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Syafiq Nurin Jazmina Muhammad , Trivedi Ashishkumar Akshaykumar , Lai Alice , Fontelera Maria Pureza Aurelio , Lim Mei Ann
Published: September 2023

Objective:

Health-care workers (HCWs) are known to be at high risk for occupational biological hazards, and this includes exposure to mycobacterium tuberculosis (TB) which can result in either active or latent TB infection (LTBI). This study aims to provide an overview of the incidence of LTBI among HCWs in Brunei Darussalam, to examine associated risk factors, and to evaluate LTBI treatment compliance.

Materials and Methods:

This is a retrospective cross-sectional study which was conducted using data from January 2018 to December 2021, on notified cases of LTBI in HCWs which identified 115 cases. Demographic data, underlying medical conditions, and compliance to treatment were assessed through reviews of their electronic health records.

Results:

The incidence of LBTI was 14.6/year/1000 HCWs. The incidence rate reached a high of 24.6/1000 in 2020, and majority of cases were in the older age groups. There was good treatment acceptance and compliance (82.6%), and this was observed to be significantly higher in females than males (P = 0.02).

Conclusion:

This study showed an average incidence of LTBI of 14.6/1000 HCWs over 4 years and high LTBI treatment acceptance (82.6%) and compliance. Emphasis on infection prevention and control measures in health-care settings and actions to increase awareness of LTBI are crucial interventions toward reducing the burden of LTBI.
Validation of short version of evidence-based practice instruments among nurses in clinical practice: Evidence-based practice beliefs, implementation, and organizational culture
Authors: Osuchukwu Easter Chukwudi , Ezeruigbo Chinwe Florence
Published: September 2023

Objective:

The objective of the study is to validate the short version of evidence-based practice (EBP) instruments among nurses in clinical practice.

Methods:

An institutional-based cross-sectional research design was used and a stratified sampling technique to select 285 nurse clinicians. The study utilized a structured questionnaire comprising of demographic data from the participants and three validated scales: the shortened versions of the EBP Beliefs Scale, the EBP Implementation Scale, and the Organizational Culture and Readiness for System-Wide Integration of Evidence-Based Practice (OCRSIEP) survey. With the use of descriptive statistics, the data were analyzed and presented in frequencies and percentages, while inter-item correlation coefficient (ICC) and the Kaiser-Meyer–Olkin measure of sampling adequacy were used to confirm the validity of using factor analysis.

Results:

Findings revealed the mean scores of the EBP Beliefs Scale ranged from 1.50 to 1.61, EBP Implementation Scale ranged from 1.84 to 1.94, and the OCRSIEP Scale ranged from 1.93 to 2.19. All the three shortened scales accordingly had good internal reliability, 29.30 ± 9.93 out of 80 for the EBP Beliefs Scale, 19.56 ± 7.37 out of 72 for the EBP Implementation Scale, and 66.32 ± 20.35 out of 125 for the OCRSIEP Scale.

Conclusion:

This study has generated a valid Short Version of EBP reliable instrument that is psychometrically robust that can be used by nurses and clinicians to evaluate EBP in clinical settings since the results presented as a whole confirmed the high reliability and factorial validity.
Enfermedad invasiva por Haemophilus influenzae. España 2021-2022
Authors: Soler Soneira Marta , Granero Melcón Beatriz , Arroyo Nebreda Virginia , Sastre García María , Amillategui Dos-Santos Rocío , Cano Portero Rosa
Published: September 2023

Introducción: Este informe muestra la información de la enfermedad invasiva por Haemophilus influenzae (EIH) en España relativa a los años 2021-2022.
Método: Análisis epidemiológico descriptivo de los casos de EIH notificados a la Red Nacional de Vigilancia Epidemiológica (RENAVE), años 2021 y 2022. Las variables analizadas fueron: sexo, edad, fecha de inicio de síntomas, lugar de residencia, defunción y serotipo del agente patógeno.
Resultados: En 2021 se produjo un descenso acusado de la tasa de incidencia (TI), mientras que en 2022 se observó un aumento de la TI alcanzando la cifra de años prepandémicos. En 2021 se notificaron 179 casos de EIH con una TI de 0,40. En 2022 se notificaron un total de 462 casos (TI de 0,97). La mayor TI en 2021 y en 2022 se observó en menores de 1 año, TI de 5,05 y TI de 8,20, respectivamente. En 2022 los dos grupos de menor edad (menores de 1 año y grupo de 1 a 4 años) presentaron una TI superior a la observada en años prepandémicos. Se desconoce el serotipo de la mayoría de los casos de EIH que ocasionaron este incremento.
Conclusiones: Durante el año 2021 se produjo un descenso de la TI respecto al año anterior (2020). En 2022 se recuperaron las TI prepandémicas y se produjo un incremento de las TI de los grupos de menor edad. Se han notificado un elevado porcentaje de casos con variables básicas desconocidas. Los datos completos de caracterización microbiológica son esenciales para vigilar la enfermedad.
Evaluation of Innovation and Entrepreneurship Education for College Students Based on BP Neural Network
Authors: Wang Song
Published: September 2023

With the steady advancement, innovation, and entrepreneurship education (IEE) in higher education institutions has gradually become a powerful measure and a vital approach for cultivating talents. Therefore, establishing a complete and feasible evaluation system for IEE is vital for the enhancement of education level and quality. On the basis of the principles for the evaluating system, the study selected the evaluation indicators for IEE. Then, the adaptive flower pollination algorithm was used to evolve the BP’s initial weight and threshold applied to the evaluation of the IEE of college students. The improved BP network had a faster speed in the first to fifth iteration, and the mean square error converged between 10-7 and 10-6. In the comparison of fitness values, the method converged only in the 16th generation, and the fitness value was stable at about 1.95. In practical application, the error rate of this method was about 13%, and it had a high accuracy rate. Its high accuracy indicated that this method could effectively evaluate the IEE in higher education institutions, and provided certain technical support for the cultivation of innovative talents.
La dignidad humana como principio posibilitador en la declaración universal sobre bioética y derechos humanos
Authors: Vargas Machado Camilo Andrés , Vargas Sepúlveda Claudia Fabiola , Armenta Calderón Julie
Published: September 2023

En el presente ensayo se describe por qué la dignidad humana, como principio, posibilitó o al menos creo las condiciones de posibilidad, para que se diera la Declaración Universal sobre Bioética y Derechos Humanos. Al mismo tiempo, interesó discutir como este principio fue de máxima importancia para los logros y desarrollos de la bioética en Latinoamérica, pues ya se había avanzado en el reconocimiento, promoción y respeto de los Derechos Humanos. Por lo demás, se realizó un acercamiento a las circunstancias y razones que configuraron la Declaración universal sobre bioética y derechos humanos, como un hito en la investigación bioética de carácter fundamental para Latinoamérica. Las reflexiones efectuadas por los autores permiten concluir sobre la necesidad manifiesta de continuar el desarrollo en la región del discurso bioético. Definitivamente, el siguiente paso debería ser generar una Convención Interamericana para crear un sistema y estructura regional, desde el cual se pueda promover la bioética de cara a las particulares necesidades e interés del subcontinente.
Contribuciones para el desarrollo de una renovada terapéutica de la gratitud desde la perspectiva de la psicología cognitiva-conductual
Authors: Castaño Gómez Liliana , Aristizábal Castaño Leonela
Published: September 2023

La noción de gratitud adquiere en la psicología variados significados: por un lado, puede representar a una emoción positiva en términos morales vinculada al reconocimiento de lo que otras personas hacen por el desarrollo de nuestro bienestar, de conformidad con nuestra dignidad inmanente de seres humanos. Por el otro, tiene que ver con la capacidad general de los sujetos para valorar --en cada momento-- las cosas buenas que se presentan en su vida, en la forma de: experiencias, bendiciones o situaciones que facilitan el desarrollo de una vida plana y con propósito. En este sentido, el objetivo de esta investigación fue configurar las bases teóricas y metodológica que permiten la estructuración de un protocolo clínico para una renovada terapéutica de la gratitud, de la autoría de la psicóloga Liliana Castaño Gómez. Para el logro del objetivo planteado se hizo uso de una metodología hermenéutica que permitió reinterpretar un conjunto de fuentes de comprobada cientificidad, para dialogar con diferentes escuelas y autores sobre el alcance de sus contribuciones a la teoría de la gratitud. Los resultados obtenidos permiten concluir que, la práctica de la terapia de la gratitud reporta muchos beneficios, tales como: resiliencia y fortalecimiento de la autoestima.
livro didático no contexto da formação do licenciado em Biologia: análise de projeto pedagógico de cursos
Authors: Pereira Naomy Soares , Santos Luís Henrique Oliveira , Dos Santos FrancisFrancisco de Assis Ribeiro
Published: September 2023

Resumo: Esta pesquisa analisou o projeto pedagógico de cursos (PPC) de licenciatura em Biologia de instituições públicas do Nordeste para levantar a inserção do livro didático no processo de formação de professores. Assim, 36 cursos de 29 instituições de todos os estados nordestinos tiveram seu PPC analisado. O livro didático (LD) tem maior presença em 27 cursos, sendo indicado em disciplinas e nas competências do egresso. O LD só não foi identificado no PPC da UFRN, URCA e UEMA. O curso da UEFS é o único a ter uma disciplina específica sobre LD, mas no PPC do IFPI, o LD tem tratamento de destaque. Nos cursos analisados, o LD sempre aparece com seu papel facilitador da aprendizagem com textos e atividades de Ciências e Biologia, sem um caráter de cunho social na formação do cidadão.