bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Quick Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA) Score is a Poor Mortality Predictor in Patients with Complicated Intra-abdominal Infections
Authors: Dimitrov Evgeni , Minkov Georgi , Enchev Emil , Halacheva Krasimira , Yovtchev Yovcho
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Despite the evolution in surgical treatment and antimicrobial therapy in the last years the complicated intra-abdominal infections (cIAIs) are still associated with high morbidity and mortality. Different scoring systems are already available for early prognostic evaluation and yet none has been widely accepted.
AIM: Our aim was to evaluate the prognostic accuracy of quick sequential organ failure assessment (qSOFA), one of the most recent scores, in patients with cIAIs.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: We studied retrospectively 110 patients with cIAIs admitted to the Department of Surgical Diseases (DSD) at University Hospital “Prof. Dr. Stoyan Kirkovich” Stara Zagora from January 2017 to July 2019. Area under receiver operating characteristics (AUROC) curves of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), qSOFA, and Mannheim Peritonitis Index (MPI) were analyzed and a comparison of ROC curves was performed to explore their prognostic performance.
RESULTS: Twenty-five (22.7%) patients died during hospitalization. qSOFA score showed poor prognostic accuracy (AUROC = 0.698, 95% CI = 0.566–0.829), worse than MPI score (AUROC = 0.698 vs. 0.844), but better than SIRS (AUROC = 0.698 vs. 0.583). The qSOFA score ≥2 points was observed with lack of sensitivity (32.0%) as outcome predictor. ROC curve analysis showed prognostic inferiority of qSOFA compared to MPI (difference between areas = 0.146, p = 0.0232).
CONCLUSION: In patients with cIAIs, quick-SOFA score was observed with poor prognostic performance.
Differentiating Benign from Suspicious Vertebral Marrow Lesions Detected with Conventional Magnetic Resonance Imaging Using Apparent Diffusion Coefficient and Diffusion-Weighted Image
Authors: Mohson Khaleel Ibraheem , Naief Qusay Tayser , Jalil Farah Abdul
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences, include the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), are of great benefit in assessing troublesome vertebral marrow lesion in patients presented with primary malignancy outside the spines.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to evaluate the role of vertebral column MRI in characterization and evaluation of marrow lesion in patients with primary malignancy utilizing ADC and DWI in addition to conventional MRI sequences.
METHODS: This is a cross-sectional study which includes 80 patients referred to MR unit 58 of them referred from the oncology department in oncology teaching hospital having primary cancer outside the spine and also referred complaining of back pain and worry from metastasis while the remaining 22 are cancer-free patients referred to MRI because of lower back pain – the study was performed in Medical City, Baghdad, Iraq, during the period from the beginning of September 2018–October 2019.
RESULTS: The study sample consists of 55 females and 25 males, the breast cancer is main primary in females and represents 30/58 patients, while the prostate is the main cancer in males and represents 7/58 patients. When correlating the MR sequences (T1W, Fat sat and DWI) all together and after addition of ADC value (<9x10-3 mm2/sec) in diagnosis of malignancy there is decreasing frequency of positive cases from 39% before ADC to 22.4% after adding it which is close to histopathology results (17% ). The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy of ADC in detecting metastasis within the vertebral marrow are 94%, 95%, 88.9%, 97.5%, and 94.8%, respectively.
CONCLUSION: Conventional MRI using standard T1W, T2 weighted, and fat suppression sequences cannot discriminate between benign and pathological vertebral marrow lesions. Using DWI improves the recognition of pathological bony lesion(s) and this is strengthened when enforced by ADC value and by that, it can replace the need for intravenous contrast administration. DWI and ADC are beneficial in follow-up of previously detected restricted lesion and in assessment its response to treatment that was depicted by measuring its ADC that consequently elevated in healing phase.
Concept Analysis of Futile Care in the Oncology Nursing: A Hybrid Model
Authors: Rafii Forough , Ranjbar Hadi , Dinmohammadi Mohammadreza , Noodeh Farshid Alazmani
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: With the advances in medical technology and care of patients with cancer, the concept of futile care attracted more attention in the field of oncology. Futile care in the context of oncology nursing is an ambiguous and complex concept. Despite the importance of it in the professional care for patients with cancers, it was not defined clearly in the social and cultural contexts of Iran.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to clarify and identify the components and inner structures of futile care from the perspective of nurses dealing with patients with advanced cancer using a hybrid model.
METHODS: In the present study, the concept of futile care was analyzed based on the hybrid model in three phases including theoretical, fieldwork, and final analytical phase. In the theoretical phase, the related studies were analyzed. In the fieldwork phase, 10 interviews were conducted with nurses in oncology departments. Finally, the concept attributes were determined through a general analysis of the results of theoretical and fieldwork phases.
RESULTS: The definition of the concept of futile care in oncology is continuous clinical services without reaching to desired outcome with simultaneous unrelated responsibilities for nurses. These services were provided to patients that have poor prognosis and they do not result on improve of patient’s survival or quality of life. The most important consequences of futile care are job burnout for nurses, unnecessary suffering for patients, and heavy expenses for health system.
CONCLUSION: Futile care in oncology nursing has severe outcomes on nurses. Based on the definition, new scales can be developed to assess the futile care among nurses in oncology settings.
The Effectiveness of Acupressure Therapy and Aromatherapy of Lemon on the Ability of Coping and Emesis Gravidarum in Trimester I Pregnant Women at Langsa City Community Health Centre, Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Magfirah Magfirah , Fatma S. , Idwar Idwar
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Acupressure therapy and aromatherapy lemon are now increasingly popular in the treatment of various diseases in Indonesia. One treatment alternative to deal with nausea, vomiting during pregnancy is to use aqua-pressure and aromatherapy techniques.
AIM: Analyzing the effects of acupressure therapy and the aroma of lemon therapy on the ability to cope and emesis gravidarum in trimester I pregnant women at the city health center Langsa, Aceh province.
METHODS: The design of this study is a quasi-experiment. The design used was a non-randomized pretest-posttest control group design. This research was conducted in the West Langsa health center from January to March 2019. The population was all the first-trimester pregnant women with complaints of nausea and vomiting. The sample was chosen about 60 people using a purposive sampling technique. Respondents were divided into three groups. The first group was acupressure, the second group was acupressure + lemon aromatherapy and the third group was control. Data analysis using univariate analysis, and bivariable analysis using paired t-test, dependent t-test and one-way ANOVA, multi-variable analysis using a multi-covariance test, and ANOVA
RESULTS: Research results show that acupressure and acupressure + lemon therapy are effective in reducing nausea experienced by pregnant women. Lemon acupressure + aromatherapy therapy significantly reduced nausea in pregnant women with a p = 0.0001 (p <0.05). The results of paired t-test nausea and vomiting in the acupressure and acupressure + lemon aromatherapy groups decreased the amount of nausea with a decrease of 4.2 and 4.85, respectively. The duration of nausea and vomiting also decreased by 1.55 and 4.3 with a p = 0.0001 (p <0.05). ANOVA test results in the treatment group on coping ability showed that the acupressure + lemon aromatherapy group increased the coping ability of pregnant women by 5.7 compared to the control group. The results of paired t-test coping abilities in pregnant women with acupressure therapy were 3.2 and lemon acupressure + aromatherapy treatments were 6.2. The increase in both treatments was significant with a p = 0.0001, respectively.
CONCLUSION: There is an effect of grapefruit aromatherapy on the intensity of nausea and vomiting in pregnant women in the working area of Langsa City Health Center with p < 0.05 (0.0001).
Transcranial versus Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Approaches in Management of Recurrent Giant Pituitary Adenomas
Authors: Ismail Mohamed , Abdel Aleem Abdel Moneim Ragab Omar , Salama Mohamed M. , Ayoub Basim M. , Elmahdy Wael
Published: July 2020

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare the transcranial and the endoscopic transsphenoidal approaches for patients with recurrent giant pituitary adenomas as regards the extent of tumor resection and the clinical outcome.
METHODS: The study included 21 patients with recurrent giant pituitary adenomas divided into two groups; Group A included nine patients operated on by transcranial approaches and Group B included 12 patients operated on by the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach. Both groups were compared as regards the extent of tumor resection and the post-operative clinical outcome, particularly the visual and endocrinological outcomes, in addition to morbidity and mortality.
RESULTS: There was a higher incidence of total and near-total resection in Group B (41.7%) and a higher incidence of subtotal resection in Group A (55.6%). The incidence of visual improvement was higher in Group B (55.6%) than in Group A (28.6%). Post-operative biochemical remission was achieved in 100% of Group B patients and in 50% of Group A patients with functioning adenomas. The incidence of post-operative complications was higher in Group A (77.8%) than in Group B (50%).
CONCLUSION: The endoscopic transsphenoidal approach for recurrent giant pituitary adenomas is associated with a higher extent of tumor resection, better rates of visual improvement and endocrinological remission, and lower incidence of complications. The transcranial approach should be reserved for some adenomas with marked lateral or anterior extensions, fibrous tumors, and after the failure of the endoscopic transsphenoidal approach.
Physical Activities and Incidence of Obesity among Adolescent in Medan, Indonesia
Authors: Suza Dewi Elizadiani , Miristia Vina , Hariati Hariati
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Obesity is a common problem among adolescents. The incidence of obesity is related to daily living activities.
AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the correlation between physical activity and obesity among adolescents.
METHODS: This research was a cross-sectional study. The study was conducted in September 2017 until June 2018 at Junior High School in Medan, Indonesia. The sample of this study consisted of 114 adolescents with consecutive sampling. The study instruments measured four things in obesity indicators that are: Weight scales, microtoise for body height, body mass index, and physical activity questionnaire for older children. The value validity test value of content validity index 1. Cronbach’s alpha reliability tested to value 0.88. The data areanalyzed using the Chi-square statistical test.
RESULTS: The result showed that the adolescents whodid a moderate physical activity as many as 71 respondents (62.30%), mild physical activity as many as 35 respondents (30.70%), and heavy physical activity as many as eightrespondents (7.00%). The incidence of obesity in this study showed that 80 (70.20%) of respondents were not qualified as obese and 34 (29.80%) respondents were obese. There was a correlation between physical activity and obesity among adolescents withp = 0.00 (p <0.05).
CONCLUSION: It is concluded that the importanceof physical activityassessmentsby the students for the early detection of obesity risk in the future. In addition, it is need to provide health education to adolescents about the importance of daily physical activity with routine activities, such as exercises and sports.
Identification of Rat Density and Ectoparasites in Seaport Area of Manokwari, Papua Province
Authors: Manyullei Syamsuar , Natsir Muhammad Fajaruddin , Batkunda Anderson
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Manokwari port is a port that is the gateway (point of entry) in the area of Manokwari Regency, West Papua Province.
AIM: The purpose of this research was to determine the density of rats, types of rats, success traps, the density of ectoparasites, and types of ectoparasites.
METHODS: This is a descriptive observational research type to determine the picture of environmental sanitation such as the presence of waste, signs of the presence of rats, success traps, types of rats, and ectoparasites. The population was all rats and ectoparasites that were around the catch-location. Samples were mice and ectoparasites that were caught at research time.
RESULTS: The results of the study for 4 days of trapping with a total of 200 traps, the calculation of success traps per day in the trap multi live trap A obtained values ranging from 0 to 0.13 and in multi live traps B with salted fish baits ranging from 0.02 to 0.08. The results showed several types of mice, namely, Rattus tanezumi (52.17%), Rattus norvegicus (43.47%), ad Soricidae (4.34%). A total of 13 male rats (56.52%) 10 female rats (43.47%) were successfully captured during the study. The results showed that from 23 rats caught, 23 ectoparasites of fleas Xenopsylla cheopis, one tick, seven small louse, and six mites.
CONCLUSIONS: The rats most commonly found are R. tanezumi rats with male sex with ectoparasites which are found the most, namely, X. cheopis. Ectoparasites of this type are very dangerous for health, one of which can cause bubonic plague. Therefore, it recommended that the port authority can improve vector control in the port area.
Efficacy of Albendazole Against Soil-transmitted Helminthiasis among Children in Asia: Systematic Review
Authors: Faizal M. Mohd , Anaanthan BP , Ezdiani M. Nur , Azmawati M. N. , Norfazilah A. , Hasanain F. G. , Jeffree Mohammad Safrree , Syed Abdul Rahim Syed Sharizman , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: The World health organization reported that 875 million children worldwide require antihelminth preventive chemotherapy annually. Vast majority of STH infections (67%) and YLDs (68%) occurred in Asia.
METHODS: A systematic search was performed for relevant titles, abstract, and keywords from Cochrane Library, PubMed, and Scopus around October 2018 based on the PICO strategy. Out of 173 papers that were evaluated, final assessment for eligibility had yielded a total of five papers to be included for analysis covering period from 2013 to 2018.
RESULTS: Of the five selected studies, three were randomized controlled trial, one was cohort and another one was described more like a quasi-experimental trial. All infection intensity showed improvement post-intervention. Four of the five studies used Kato Katz as diagnostic method with one combined it with Baermann techniques. One used McMaster egg counting method. All except one study tested albendazole efficacy in their study either alone or in combination with other chemotherapy such as diethyl carbazide or combining with education pamphlet. Egg reduction rate was reported as low as 63% and as high as 99.9%.
CONCLUSION: In general, albendazole is efficacious enough to control STH.
Investigation of Medication Errors in a Tertiary Care Hospitals in the Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Harkan Amjad , Al-Harkan Njood , Al-Najjar Amal , Al-Hunti Alaa , Al-Rashidi Ahmed , Al-Themery Abdullah
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: Medication errors (MEs) have been defined as “any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication or patient harm when the medication is in the control of the health care professional, patient, or consumer.”
AIM: The aim of this study is to identify, analyze, and compare the common types of errors encountered in prescriptions, as well as the factors associated with the root causes of these errors, in a large tertiary hospital in the Qassim region of Saudi Arabia.
METHODS: The design used is a retrospective cross-sectional analysis conducted in tertiary care hospitals in the Al-Qassim region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. MEs were reported by nurses, pharmacist, and physicians through “hospital-based incident medication error reports” collected from January 2016 to December 2016.
RESULTS: During the study period, 2123 MEs were reported for 213,489 prescriptions, of which 1282 (60.38%) were errors by a physician followed by nurses and then pharmacists. Analysis of the outcome of error types revealed that error types B and C were the most common, with only few type A errors identified (0.14%). The most common type of error was incomplete data (34.27%) followed by prescription in illegible handwriting (14.88%). The least common ME was prescription of the wrong strength (0.17%).
CONCLUSION: This study revealed multiple prescription errors across 213,489 prescriptions, most commonly originating with physicians. The incidence of serious errors was low at 0.14%, and the major outcome of prescription errors was “Near miss.” “Incomplete data” and “Illegible handwriting” were the most common types of MEs detected. Despite the low number of MEs recorded during the study period, some of the errors were indeed serious. Based on the findings of this study, policy-makers should consider strategies for increasing efficiency in the hospital setting.
Effectivity of Indonesia Chronic Disease Management Program (PROLANIS) to Control Hypertension and its Comorbidities at Primary Health Care
Authors: Alkaff Firas Farisi , Sukmajaya William Putera , Intan Ryan Enast , Salamah Sovia
Published: July 2020

BACKGROUND: National prevalence of hypertension in Indonesia is increasing in the past few years. One of the reasons is because of the weaknesses in health systems, particularly at the primary care level. To resolve this issue, Indonesian government launched a chronic disease care program (PROLANIS) designed to be done at primary health care with the aim to control hypertension. Wates primary health care routinely conducts the program from April 2018.
AIM: This study aims to evaluate the effectivity of PROLANIS in controlling hypertension and its comorbidities at Wates primary health care.
METHODS: This study was an observational retrospective cohort study using secondary data from PROLANIS report at Wates primary health care in Mojokerto city, Indonesia. The study population was hypertensive patients that voluntarily joined the program on April 2018 and routinely attend evaluation follow-up every 6 months. Follow-up evaluation including blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipid (HDL), low-density lipid (LDL), triglyceride, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR).
RESULTS: There were 44 participants included for the analysis. Median systolic and diastolic BP were always within normal range. Triglyceride serum level showed an improvement in every follow-up evaluation. BMI and LDL showed an improvement in the first follow-up but deteriorated afterward. TC only showed a remarkable improvement in the last follow-up evaluation, while HDL and eGFR result were fluctuate.
CONCLUSION: PROLANIS was effective to control BP at Wates primary health care, but not effective to control all comorbidities. Future study needs to be done to elucidate the effectivity of this program countrywide.
Baccalaureate Nursing Students' Communication Process in the Clinical Setting
Authors: Kotecki Catherine Nuss
Published: July 2020

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study was to describe and generate theory about how baccalaureate nursing students communicate with patients in the clinical setting using the qualitative method of grounded theory. Third-year and fourth-year generic baccalaureate nursing students were the primary participants in this study. Data were gathered during two academic semesters from formal and informal interviews and observations in hospital and home care settings. Transcribed audiotapes and field memos constituted the data generated in the study and were subjected to generating categories through open coding of data, applying theoretical codes to the data, collapsing and expanding categories reflective of the data, and memoing and uncovering the core category of the data. The core category then became the grounded theory.

Analysis of the data revealed that students encountered a basic social psychological problem of "saying the right things to patients" in the clinical setting, which was preceded by the antecedent problem of "fear of saying the wrong things to patients." Students solved the problem, in part, by employing communication strategies and patterns. Eight communication strategies and five communication patterns incorporating communication strategies were identified. In addition, students went through a four-stage basic social psychological process.

The process of learning a personal communication repertoire was uncovered as the substantive grounded theory. The repertoire was learned by students in the dynamic environment of the clinical setting in which RNs served as role models and communicating with difficult patients was the crucial step in the process of communication development.
Najpomembnejša antična mesta balkanskih provinc in obeh Panonij
Authors: Donev Damjan
Published: July 2020

Rimska mesta balkanskih in podonavskih provinc so bila doslej le redko del raziskav širših mestnih mrež. Namen prispevka je prepoznati glavne značilnosti mestnih sistemov in na podlagi najpomembnejših mest provincialne mestne hierarhije poiskati njihovo vpetost v ekonomijo provinc v času severske dinastije. Avtor se osredotoča na primerjavo velikosti prvorazrednih mest z ostalimi naselbinami, upošteva pa tudi njihovo lego in kmetijsko bogastvo zaledja. Ugotavlja, da moramo obravnavano območje glede na ekonomske vire razumeti kot obrobje rimskega imperija. Glavna bogastva obravnavanih provinc so bili namreč les, volna, ruda in delovna sila, kar se jasno izraža tudi v osnovnih geografskih parametrih prvorazrednih mest: v njihovi relativno skromni velikosti, obrobni legi in vojaški naravi.
Interdisciplinarna študija človeških ostankov s starejšeželeznodobnega grobišča v Zagorju ob Savi
Authors: Nicholls Rebecca Anne , Buckberry Jo , Črešnar Matija , Armit Ian , Mason Philip , Koon Hannah
Published: July 2020

Prispevek predstavlja dognanja interdisciplinarne raziskave človeških kostnih ostankov, odkritih leta 2011 na grobišču iz starejše železne dobe na Cesti Borisa Kidriča v Zagorju ob Savi. Študija je del obsežnejšega projekta osteoloških in izotopskih analiz kostnih ostankov iz bronaste in železne dobe (14–4. st. pr. n. št.) z območij Slovenije in Hrvaške.

Osteološka raziskava šestih oseb je pokazala, da gre za ostanke enega mlajšega odraslega moškega, enega zrelega odraslega moškega in dveh zrelih odraslih žensk ter dveh otrok nedoločljivega spola. Pri vseh šestih osebah so bile na kolagenu, pridobljenem iz kosti in/ali dentina, opravljene analize stabilnih izotopov ogljika in dušika. Na podlagi rezultatov lahko pri vseh osebah sklepamo na kopensko prehrano, ki vključuje živalske proteine (meso in/ali mlečne izdelke) in rastlinske sestavine tako iz rastlin C3 kot C4.
Nove risbe figuralnih upodobitev na situlah z Vač in Magdalenske gore ter iz Valične vasi
Authors: Murgelj Ida
Published: July 2020

Različni povodi so botrovali ponovnemu risanju treh situl. V članku je predstavljen način dela, ki je kombinacija klasičnega risanja in dopolnjevanja z računalniškim programom. Podana so opažanja o odkritih in popravljenih večjih in manjših netočnostih iz predhodnih risb. Na situli z Vač so bile posebne pozornosti deležne oven kot žrtvena žival in osebe, upodobljene s šestimi prsti, na situli z Magdalenske gore pa igralec na liro in nekatere spremembe, ki so na njej nastale pri konzervaciji.
The Mechanism of the Effects of Monascus jmbA Rice on Increased Platelet Count in Wistar Rats Infected with Dengue Virus Serotype 3
Authors: Triyono Erwin Astha
Published: July 2020

Background: Several traditional medicines have been developed among communities as part of the efforts to improve thrombocytopenia in patients with Dengue virus infection (DVI). Among those efforts is the administration of Monascus jmbA rice (MJR), which is rice fermented with Monascus purpureus. The administration of MJR is believed to increase the platelet count in patients with DVI. Aim: The objective of this study is to elucidate the mechanism of the effects of MJR on increased levels of platelets in DVI serotype 3 through changes in IL-3, IL-6, IL-11 and TNF-α. Methods: It was a true experimental laboratory study using the randomized post-test only control group design. The study compared between groups of wistar rats were being treated only with group IVD wistar rats who experienced treatment followed by administration of MJR as well as groups of wistar rats without any treatment as a control group. Results: The increase in platelet count in the group treated with DVI + MJR was higher than that treated with only DVI and the difference was a significant (P < 0.05). Increased levels of TNF-α in the group treated with DVI + MJR were lower than that treated with only DVI and the difference was significant (P < 0.05). The significant levels of the causal relationship of TNF-α with IL-6, TNF-α with IL-11 and IL-6 with platelets were 0.044 (P < 0.05), 0.029 (P < 0.05) and 0.041 (P < 0.05), respectively. Conclusion: MJR is capable of increasing platelet count through the role of TNF-α and IL-6 in Wistar rats infected with DVI serotype 3.
The Forming of Bacteria Biofilm from Streptococcus mutans and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as a Marker for Early Detection in Dental Caries and Periodontitis
Authors: Kriswandini Indah Listiana , Diyatri I. , Tantiana  , Nuraini P. , Berniyanti T. , Putri I. A. , Tyas P. N. B. N.
Published: July 2020

Background: This is an initial study of the biofilm of Streptococcus mutans (S. mutans) and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans (A.a). S. mutans and A.a are bacteria that cause infection diseases in the oral cavity. These bacteria have the ability to form biofilms. The study of bacterial biofilm proteins was used as an alternative to early prevention for oral infections. It would be used for the purpose of creating a marker for Infection Detection Kit in the oral cavity. Objective: To easily detect caries or Periodontitis with the biofilms of S. mutans and A.a at the early stage. The forming of biofilm proteins from S. mutans and A.a induced with 5% glucose, 5% lactose, 5% soy protein, and 5% iron will be use as a marker for early detection to Dental caries and Periodontitis. Methods: SDS-PAGE electrophoresis technique was used in the study to measure the molecular weight of S. mutans and A.a biofilms induced with 5% glucose, 5% lactose, 5% soy protein, and 5% iron. Results: Biofilm bands of S. mutans and A.a were formed with the various numbers depending on the induction used. These results are early chararterization of biofilm that will beused as a marker for early detection of infectious diseases in oral cavity (Dental Caries and Periodontitis). Conclusions: S. mutans bacteria induced with 5% glucose had one band of biofilm protein, with 5% lactose had four bands of biofilm proteins, and with soy protein had seven bands of biofilm protein, but with 5% iron did not produce any protein bands and neither did A.a.
A Case of Deep Vein Thrombosis Associated with Methicillin Sensitive Staphylococcal aureus Genu Septic Arthritis
Authors: Effendy Lyndia , Octora Metta , Kusumaningrum Deby
Published: July 2020

Septic arthritis caused by bacteria Gram positive Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection has been widely reported from Europe and the United States. This case presentation reported the first Staphylococcal septic arthritis, preceded by systemic erythroderma skin lesions from aregional hospital in Surabaya, Indonesia. Radiology imaging was used for confirming the defect. Joint fluid aspirate from the affected knee joint lesion was sent for joint fluid analysis and microbiology culture. The analysis showed infiltration of neutrophil inflammatory cells. S. aureus was isolated on culture and demonstrated catalase positive and coagulase positive reactions. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed to determine the appropriate selection of antibiotics. Clindamycin was used for treatment and the complicated occurrence of deep vein thrombosis was treated with anticoagulant. Awareness of this disease and its progression to its complication deep vein thrombosis is required to understand the burden of this disease.
The Spatial Analysis of Extrapulmonary Tuberculosis Spreading and Its Interactions with Pulmonary Tuberculosis in Samarinda, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Tandirogang Nataniel , Mappalotteng Wirdah Ulfahaini , Raharjo Eko Nugroho , Paramitai Swandari , Bulan Dewi Embong , Yasir Yadi
Published: July 2020

Background: Extrapulmonary Tubercolosis (EPTB) is an infectious disease that affects tissue outside the lungs. EPTB patients cannot be source of infection, therefore the findings in the community indicate that there are still active pul- monary TB patients acting as a source of infection. Understanding distributions of EPTB can be used as indicator to individu- ate the unmonitored source of TB transmission in the community. Objectives: The aim of this study is to analyze EPTB using spatial modeling based on patients’ location. Methods: This study is an observational research with spatial analysis approach using SatScanv.9.4.4 and ArcGis v.10.4. Involving 46 samples of EPTB patients in Anatomy Pathology Laboratory of RSUD Abdul Wahab Sjahranie in 2017 and 7 pul- monary TB patients who were contacts of EPTB patients. The distribution of EPTB patients is mostly located in areas with high population density. Results: The results showed that the dis- tribution pattern of EPTB patients was mostly in areas with high population densi- ties. Space-time permutation model shows there are 3 clusters of EPTB with a 2.91, 0.97, 1.13 km radius centered on -0.504177 S/117.092132 E, -0.476895 S /117.141700 E, -0.517031 S/117.092132 E. Conclusion: The distribution of patients with EPTB and pulmonary TB indicates there is an interaction between EPTB and pulmonary TB in the cluster area. Bernoulli model shows that there is 1 cluster of EPTB and pulmonary TB with relative risk 5.29, radius of 3.19 km, and centered on - 0.458159 S / 117.149945 E.
ADVANCED DIFFERENTIAL INTERFEROMETRIC SAR TECHNIQUE A-DINSAR FOR THE STUDY OF LARGE LANDSLIDES
Authors: Meisina Claudia
Published: July 2020

Large landslides are widespread both in the Alps and in Apennines; the observed movements are generally from extremely slow to slow with some occasional acceleration; the sudden and paroxysmal collapse of the whole mass may have catastrophic consequences. They are also difficult to characterize in their boundaries and state of activity and to monitor with traditional tools. The Advanced Differential interferometric SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radar) technique, A-DInSAR, is a remote sensing technique, which is based on satellite radar imagery for the ground motion measurement. It is based on large stacks of SAR images and enables the measure of small displacement of the ground with a millimetThe aim of this study is to apply the A-DInSAR technique in some large landslide in Alps (Brenvetto, Rosone and Alpe Baranca landslides) in order to study the effectiveness of the technique in their study and monitoring.
Adding Blood to St Thomas Solution Does Not Improve Mortality in Pediatric Cardiac Surgery: A Meta-analysis of a Homogenous Population
Authors: Awori Mark , Mehta Nikita , Kebba Naomi , Makori Enoch
Published: July 2020

No Abstract.
Public Reason and Embodied Community- Intercultural Philosophical Perspective: An African Approach
Authors: Eboh Marie Pauline
Published: July 2020

Every human person is a cultural being. Each culture has incomplete knowledge of reality, and the sharing of viewpoints makes for mutual  enrichment, hence the need for intercultural perspectives. Even in a human being, body and spirit, emotion and reason reciprocally influence on each other. Life is dialogical. Action gives flesh to theory, and the abstract reason is exemplified in real things, which is what embodiment of reason is all about. Principles govern all things and public reason, as a causal principle, regulates the affairs of embodied homogeneous communities. African embodiment of reason is self-evident in names and allegories wherein rational thoughts and ideas are personified the way sentient robots embody or personify Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this treatise, we shall use allegory, nomenclature, traditional songs, apophthegms, etc., to show how Africans wisely incarnate ideas in things. As it is analogous to modern-day AI, we shall not only highlight the African approach to public reason and embodied community but also tangentially discuss the effect of AI on the global community, of which Africa is a subunit. In conclusion, we shall caution against the empowering of robots with logical reasoning, and the disempowering and denaturalizing of humans.

Keywords: Reason, Embodiment, Philosophy, Principle and Community.
Surveying the assessment components suitability for engineering learning in a challenging educational environment
Authors: Eneje Samuel , Scholar S.
Published: July 2020

This study used a mixed methodology to investigates the possibility of using blended assessment for engineering education in a challenging learning environment. It discussed the outcome of the evaluation, which is problematized by the influences of an encumbered learning environment. It used the blended engineering models to investigate the circumstances of assessments and its outcomes in a university situated in the sub-Sahara African region. It revealed the experiences of post-internship engineering students using a single blended course. The survey showed that students` knowledge of factors impeding thorough assessment for productivity in the region and advocated ways of improvement. It disclosed past and present assessment percentage shares in addition to suggesting a preferred assessment percentage share required for graduating skilled engineers. The result uncovered where assessment might be situated so that there is a satisfactory learning outcome for engineering programs.

Keywords: Blended engineering learning, Challenged educational environments, Assessment outcomes.
Reproductive biology of four weedy Euphorbia species from Ile-Ife, Nigeria
Authors: Bolaji A.O. , Idowu-Aiye M. , Moronfade H.O.
Published: July 2020

Euphorbia heterophylla Linn., Euphorbia hirta Linn., Euphorbia hyssopifolia Linn. and Euphorbia prostrata Linn. are four noxious, yet economically important weeds, useful as phytomedicine in some parts of the world and also in Nigeria. Studies were carried out on their reproductive biology with a view to understanding the mode of their spread. Parameters investigated include number of days to seedling emergence, germinationpercentage, number of days to flowering, period to anthesis, pollinators, pollen viability, pollen size, floral structure, fruits type, seeds type, average number of fruit per plant, average number of seeds per plant and mode of seed dispersal. Results obtained showed that the seedlings of the four Euphorbia species studied emerged within 3 to 5 days; numbers of days to 50% flowering took 44 to 58 days; while flowering and fruiting continuedthroughout the remaining part of the year; thus exhibited r-strategy, expending more time and allocation of resources on their reproductive phases than their vegetative phases. Also differences existed in their stigma shape, perianth colour, perianth texture, pollen sizes, pollen viability as well as ripened colour of seed which were all significant characters that could be useful in delimiting the species. Furthermore, the study revealed that thefour species were essentially insect pollinated and their seeds dispersed by means of explosive mechanism usually characteristic of their schizocarpic fruits. This ability as well as their tendency to exhibit r-strategy could probably account for their ability to spread and invade cultivated fields, waste lands and roadsides.

Keywords: Explosive mechanism, r-Strategy, Seed dispersal, Pollen viability, Seed set
Taxonomic significance of some leaf anatomical features of the species of Annona L. (annonaceae) from Nigeria
Authors: Adeniran S.A. , Kadiri A.B. , Olowokudejo J.D.
Published: July 2020

A comparative study of the some leaf anatomical features of four species of Annona occurring in Nigerian was undertaken with the aid of light microscope. The four foliar structures (epidermis, petiole, midrib and lamina architecture) studied revealed useful characters which support recognition of the species. A combination of these features has been used to prepare an artificial indented dichotomous key for identifying the  species. The generic constant features encountered included hypostomata, paracytic stomatal type, linear nerves endings, uneven midrib outline, and centrally located vascular bundles in the petiole and midrib. However, the most reliable distinguishing characters found across the species included presence of brachyparacytic stomata in A. reticulata, presence of trichomes on the midrib in A. senegalensis, absence of druses on the abaxial surface in A. muricata and A. squamosa, a thick pitted anticlinal walls on the surfaces of A. muricata and consistent polygonal areola shape in A. squamosa. The overlapping characters which also justify the closeness of the species and their grouping in a genus were recorded in both the qualitative and quantitative features. Prominent among them are the mean stomatal width which is about 1.0 μm in all species, nerve endings within the areole which varies between 1-2, U- or V-shaped midrib on the adaxial surface and straight to curved anticlinal wall pattern. The significance of these observations is discussed in updating the existing data in the genus.

Keywords: Epidermis, Microscopy, Midrib, Petiole,   Systematic
Effect of social capital on food security status of rural farm households in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors: Osondu C.K.
Published: July 2020

This study analysed the effect of social capital on food security status of rural farm households in Enugu state, Nigeria. Multistage random sampling technique was employed in collecting data from 180 farm households using structured interview schedule. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, food security index, Tobit regression and Pearson product moment correlation. Results showed that the farm households had mean monthly food expenditure/consumption of ₦14,600. Result of social capital dimensions showed that the farm households belonged to at least 2 associations and had cash contribution index of 68.01% and participated in two out of three decision making processes of their association. Result also showed that 58.33% of the farm households were relatively food secure. Result of Tobit regression analysis showed that cash contribution index, membership density index, association heterogeneity index and decision making index significantly influenced the rural farm households’ food security status. The Pearson correlation analysis showed that there was a significant positive correlation between social capital and food security status of the farm households at 5% level. The study recommends that relevant agencies with mandate to enhance food security status of farm households should make policies aimed at promoting membership of farmers to local agricultural associations/cooperatives where opportunities for access to social capital abound.

Keywords: Farm households, food security, social capital
Nutrients content and nutritive values of the leaves of alley woody species used in alley farming in Umudike Southern Nigeria
Authors: Onyenso A.I. , Nwobodo K.A. , Yakubu A.M.
Published: July 2020

Alley farming is an agroforestry system that utilizes trees for maintaining soil fertility and improving livestock production. This research assessed the nutrients and nutritive values of the leaves of four alley woody species: Cajanus cajan, Gliricidia sepium, Flamingia macrophylla and Leucaena leucocephala used at the agroforestry research farm of Department of Forestry and Environmental Management, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria. Umudike. The results obtained showed that the leaves of the alley woody species contained: N, P, K, Ca, Mg and heavy metals like: Fe, Pb, Zn, and Cd in significant quantity while Cr was trace amount. Ni content was not significant (P>0.05). They also contained high moisture, Crude fibre, Crude protein, Carbohydrate and vitamins. The four alley woody species could be an ideal combination in alley farming system in revitalizing poor agricultural soil through litterfall and nutrient cycling and as well provide forage for livestock production.

Keywords: Alley farming, alley woody species, nutrient content, nutritive value
Prophetie et structure de l’intrigue dans le Roman Africain d’expression Française: Le cas de l’etrange destin de Wangrin  d’Amadou Hampate ba
Authors: Wosu Kalu
Published: July 2020

Amadou Hampâté Bâ est né en 1901, et pour cela, il s’est surnommé « fils ainé du XXe siècle ». De son vivant, il a fait la collecte des traditions orales africaines en voie de disparition. En collaboration avec les ethnologues tels Géneviève Calame-Griaule, Germaine Dieterlen, Marcel Griaule, etc., Amadou Hampâté Bâ laisse à la postérité un corps important du patrimoine africain sous formes de contes, d’essais autobiographiques, et d’un roman. C’est bien ce souci de préservation du patrimoine oral qu’il a prononcé une phrase qui est devenue un proverbe : En Afrique lorsqu’un vieillard meurt, c’est toute une bibliothèque qui brule. II est décédé en 1991 à l‘âge de 90 ans. L’Etrange destin de Wangrin, son seul roman, est devenu, dès sa parution en 1973, un des classiques de la littérature négro -africaine d’expression française. Ce roman est une peinture saisissante du colonialisme français en Afrique, surtout à la conjoncture historique de la première grande guerre. Il témoigne aussi du choc entre les traditions millénaires des Africains et les valeurs culturelles du Blanc véhiculées par la colonisation. L’Etrange destin de Wangrin suit la trame narrative du théâtre tragique grec en ce sens que le personnage héros est soumis à la volonté d’un destin capricieux. Ses gestes sont prédéterminés par les forces occultes qui l’entrainent dès sa naissance, en passant par des péripéties, jusqu’au geste fatal qui annonce une mort inéluctable Notre visée dans la présente étude porte sur le rôle que joue la prophétie tant dans la programmation du destin de Wangrin, le personnage éponyme du roman, que dans la structure dynamique du récit.

Mots-clés : prophétie, dynamique, structurant, divination, Amadou Hampâté Bâ
A pragma-syntactic analysis of slogans on t-shirts
Authors: Nwala Michael Alozie
Published: July 2020

The T-shirts and the slogans on them are used to achieve different discourse and communicative themes. The T-shirts help to describe people, events, positions and situations. This article written the confines of the theoretical framework of multimodal discourse analysis and the qualitative design, investigates five different types of T-shirts. The T-shirts and the inscriptions on them as exemplified in the themes of readiness, position and desire, happiness and celebration, and protest are used to describe the wearers, address situations and pass information to the public. The paper therefore concludes that T-shirts and the slogans scripted on them perform different types of illoucutionary actions which cause different forms perlocutionary reactions

Key Words: T-shirts, slogans, themes, multimodal, cloth; communication
Ameliorative Effect of Aqueous Seed Extract of Citrullus Lanatus (Water Melon) on Liver Function Parameters and Markers of Oxidative Stress in Lead Treated Rats
Authors: Rabiu S. , Bello A. , Dandare A. , Sadiq M.E.
Published: July 2020

Extensive and unmonitored use of lead in developing and industrialized countries is posing a serious threat to human health. Prolonged exposure of a sub-lethal dose of this toxicant is closely related to its accumulation in various soft tissues and its interference with bio elements that hamper several physiological processes. The study was designed to investigate the potential effect of aqueous seed extract of Citrullus lanatus on liver function parameters and oxidative stress markers. Forty healthy albino rats of both sexes were randomly divided into four groups: Group 1: Normal, Group 2 Lead untreated, dose 15mg/kg lead acetate. Group 3 and 4 were dosed 15mg/kg lead acetate and aqueous seed extract 50mg/kg and 100 mg/kg respectively for 21 days. The present study revealed that AST, ALT and ALP levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05) in lead induced untreated group compared to control. There was no observed difference in serum total proteins (P > 0.05) among all the groups but albumin, significantly decreased (P < 0.05) compared to control. Serum vitamin A and E concentration were shown to have decreased in lead untreated groups while Vitamin C level remained unchanged. The level of GSH and catalase activity increased in the treatment groups with decreased in MDA level. It is therefore suggested that aqueous seed extract of water melon might be rich in antioxidants, hence effective in preventing lipid peroxidation.

Keywords: Antioxidants, Citrullus lanatus, Lead, Oxidative stress.
In VitroDegradation of Bitumen from Tar Sand by Microorganisms around the Bitumen Deposit
Authors: Okpo U.F. , Aborisade A.T.
Published: July 2020

In vitro degradation of bitumen by microorganisms isolated around bitumen deposit at Agbabu was investigated. The microorganisms were isolated from soil sample collected around bitumen deposit and bitumen itself. The ability of individual isolates to utilize bitumen as sole carbon source in mineral salt medium was investigated. The results showed a decrease in the pH of the medium with an increase in the bacteria cell densities within the period of incubation, thereby confirming activities of the isolates in the medium. Bacillus subtilis (29.15%) caused highest weight loss from the bitumen, while Pseudomonas aeruginosa (12.03%) caused the least among the bacteria isolate. Other bacteria isolated were Acinetobacter sp. and Staphylococcus aureus. All the isolates caused weight loss from the bitumen. For moulds, Arthrobotrys oligospora caused higher percentage weight loss (19.13%), than Aspergillus niger in 28 days of incubation. By the 56 days of incubation, Bacillus subtilis was responsible for highest weight loss (49.50%), while Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited the lowest percentage (23.17%). For the moulds, Arthrobotrys oligospora caused the higher weight loss (42.83%) while Aspergillus niger had 37.33%. Thus, this established that the microorganisms isolated from the soil around the Agbabu bitumen and the bitumen itself could degrade bitumen from tar sand, hence their potential usefulness in remediation of bitumen polluted environment when the exploitation of the resource commenced.

Keywords: Bitumen; Bacteria; Mould; Hydrocarbon