bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of air pollution and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in India
Authors: Tyagi Rahul , Mittal Saurabh , Madan Karan , Pandey Ravindra Mohan , Pandey Anjali , Mohan Anant , Hadda Vijay , Tiwari Pawan , Guleria Randeep
Published: June 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the world, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. Various meteorological parameters are considered essential for the viability and transmission of the virus. Multiple reports from various parts of the world suggest a correlation between the disease spread and air pollution severity. This study was carried out to identify the relationship between meteorological parameters, air pollution, and COVID-19 in New Delhi, one of the worst-affected states in India. We studied air pollution and meteorological parameters in New Delhi, India. We obtained data about COVID-19 occurrence, meteorological parameters, and air pollution indicators from various sources from Apr 1, 2020, till Nov 12, 2020. We performed correlational analysis and employed autoregressive distributed lag models (ARDLM) for identifying the relationship between COVID-19 cases with air pollution and meteorological parameters. We found a significant impact of PM 2.5, PM 10, and meteorological parameters on COVID-19. There was a significant positive correlation between daily COVID-19 cases and COVID-19-related deaths with PM2.5 and PM10 levels. Increasing temperature and windspeed were associated with a reduction in the number of cases while increasing humidity was associated with increased cases. This study demonstrated a significant association of PM2.5 and PM10 with daily COVID-19 cases and COVID-19-related mortality. This knowledge will likely help us prepare well for the future and implement air pollution control measures for other airborne disease epidemics.
Risk factors for clinically significant diffuse parenchymal lung abnormalities persisting after severe COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Dhooria Sahajal , Arora Siddhant , Chaudhary Shivani , Sehgal Inderpaul Singh , Prabhakar Nidhi , Mohammad Nasim , Sharma Riya , Das Prabir , Kumar Yashwant , Garg Mandeep , Puri Goverdhan Dutt , Bhalla Ashish , Muthu Valliappan , Prasad Kuruswamy Thurai , Agarwal Ritesh , Aggarwal Ashutosh Nath
Published: June 2023

Background & objectives:

The risk factors for clinically significant diffuse parenchymal lung abnormalities (CS-DPLA) persisting after severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia remain unclear. The present study was conducted to assess whether COVID-19 severity and other parameters are associated with CS-DPLA.

Methods:

The study participants included patients who recovered after acute severe COVID-19 and presented with CS-DPLA at two or six month follow up and control group (without CS-DPLA). Adults volunteers without any acute illness, chronic respiratory illness and without a history of severe COVID-19 were included as healthy controls for the biomarker study. The CS-DPLA was identified as a multidimensional entity involving clinical, radiological and physiological pulmonary abnormalities. The primary exposure was the neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR). Recorded confounders included age, sex, peak lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), advanced respiratory support (ARS), length of hospital stay (LOS) and others; associations were analyzed using logistic regression. The baseline serum levels of surfactant protein D, cancer antigen 15-3 and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) were also compared among cases, controls and healthy volunteers.

Results:

We identified 91/160 (56.9%) and 42/144 (29.2%) participants with CS-DPLA at two and six months, respectively. Univariate analyses revealed associations of NLR, peak LDH, ARS and LOS with CS-DPLA at two months and of NLR and LOS at six months. The NLR was not independently associated with CS-DPLA at either visit. Only LOS independently predicted CS-DPLA at two months [adjusted odds ratios (aOR) (95% confidence interval [CI]), 1.16 (1.07-1.25); P<0.001] and six months [aOR (95% CI) and 1.07 (1.01-1.12); P=0.01]. Participants with CS-DPLA at six months had higher baseline serum TGF-β levels than healthy volunteers.

Interpretation and conclusions:

Longer hospital stay was observed to be the only independent predictor of CS-DPLA six months after severe COVID-19. Serum TGF-β should be evaluated further as a biomarker.
From Orthopaedic Museum: The Chatterjee’s Plate
Authors: Keshkar Sanjay , Mazumder Dilip Kumar
Published: June 2023

Orthopaedics in India was developed by many stalwarts by their creativity, inventions, and innovations. “Chatterjee’s Plate” is one of them, which was conceptualised by Prof. (Dr.) M. L. Chatterjee of Calcutta National Medical College, Calcutta, and was manufactured by Calcutta Metallic in the mid-60s. This was being used for internal fixation in McMurray’s Osteotomy in old ununited cases of fracture neck femur. Though the “Chatterjee’s Plate” is not in use nowadays (due to the advent of newer and better implant and technology for such fractures), it is absolutely imperative to convey to posterity about this lifetime work and obsession of Prof. (Dr.) M. L. Chatterjee.
A Cross-Sectional Study on Item Analysis of Prevalidated and Nonvalidated Anatomy Multiple-Choice Questions
Authors: Shenoy Varsha , Ravi Pallavi , Chandy Dane
Published: June 2023

Background:

Multiple-choice questions (MCQs) are widely used tools to test knowledge. Pre- and postvalidation of the MCQs are prerequisites to maintaining the standard of the questions. Prevalidation is done by subject experts before the test. Postvalidation (item analysis) uses three indices – item difficulty index (P), item discrimination index (D), and distractor efficiency (DE). This study was done with the aim to assess the quality of MCQs used during the formative assessments using item analysis indices and to compare the indices in prevalidated and nonvalidated MCQs.

Methodology:

The study used two sets of MCQ tests, conducted as a part of formative assessments for phase I MBBS students in the department of anatomy. Set 1 comprised nonvalidated MCQs and set 2 comprised prevalidated MCQs. The three indices were calculated for all the questions in both sets.

Results:

The average P value for set 1 was 57.62 ± 21.90 and that for set 2 was 59.27 ± 20.32. Average D value for set 1 was found to be 0.23 ± 0.36 and that for set 2 was 0.29 ± 0.15. In set 1, 37.5% of the MCQs had 100% DE, whereas, in set 2, 60% of the MCQs had 100% DE. Thirty percent of the distractors were nonfunctional in set 1, but in set 2, only 16.7% of the distractors were nonfunctional.

Conclusions:

Study results favor prevalidation and postvalidation of MCQs to develop a good-quality MCQ bank. It is imperative to use the MCQs having moderate difficulty, good discrimination power, and with all functional distractors in any given assessment.
Establishment of Patient-Derived Organoids Using Ascitic or Pleural Fluid from Cancer Patients
Authors: Choi Wonyoung , Kim Yun-Hee , Woo Sang Myung , Yu Yebeen , Lee Mi Rim , Lee Woo Jin , Chun Jung Won , Sim Sung Hoon , Chae Heejung , Shim Hyoeun , Lee Keun Seok , Kong Sun-Young
Published: June 2023

Purpose Patient-derived tumor cells can be a powerful resource for studying pathophysiological mechanisms and developing robust strategies for precision medicine. However, establishing organoids from patient-derived cells is challenging because of limited access to tissue specimens. Therefore, we aimed to establish organoids from malignant ascites and pleural effusions.Materials and Methods Ascitic or pleural fluid from pancreatic, gastric, and breast cancer patients was collected and concentrated to culture tumor cells ex vivo. Organoids were considered to be successfully cultured when maintained for five or more passages. Immunohistochemical staining was performed to compare the molecular features, and drug sensitivity was assayed to analyze the clinical responses of original patients.Results We collected 70 fluid samples from 58 patients (pancreatic cancer, n=39; gastric cancer, n=21; and breast cancer, n=10). The overall success rate was 40%; however, it differed with types of malignancy, with pancreatic, gastric, and breast cancers showing 48.7%, 33.3%, and 20%, respectively. Cytopathological results significantly differed between successful and failed cases (p=0.014). Immunohistochemical staining of breast cancer organoids showed molecular features identical to those of tumor tissues. In drug sensitivity assays, pancreatic cancer organoids recapitulated the clinical responses of the original patients.Conclusion Tumor organoids established from malignant ascites or pleural effusion of pancreatic, gastric, and breast cancers reflect the molecular characteristics and drug sensitivity profiles. Our organoid platform could be used as a testbed for patients with pleural and peritoneal metastases to guide precision oncology and drug discovery.
The Effect of Large Droplet and Spanwise Ridge Ice Accretion on the Aerodynamic Performance of Swept Wings
Authors: Woodard Brian , Bragg Michael , Smith Timothy G.
Published: June 2023

Wind tunnel tests were performed on an 8.9-percent scale semispan wing in the Wichita State University 7x10-foot wind tunnel with simulated ice accretion shapes. Simulated ice shapes from large-droplet clouds, simple-geometry ice horn shapes, and simple-geometry spanwise ridge shapes typical of runback icing were tested. Three Reynolds number and Mach number combinations were tested over a range of angles of attack. Aerodynamic forces and moments were acquired from the tunnel balance and surface pressures and oil flow visualizations were acquired. This research supplements the Swept Wing Icing Program recently concluded by NASA, FAA, ONERA, and their partners by testing new ice shapes on the same wind tunnel model. Additional surface roughness was added to simulate large-droplet ice accretion aft of the highly three-dimensional primary ice shape, and it had little effect on the wing aerodynamic performance. Spanwise ridge simulations produced large increases in drag and small increases in maximum lift in most cases. Ridge size and location had significant effects on the performance and the lower-surface ridge was important contributing to the drag at low angle of attack and lift at high angle of attack due to the movement of the attachment line around the leading edge. Oil flow visualization and surface pressures help explain the spanwise effects on the flowfield and the resulting changes in lift and moment produced by the various ice shape simulations. Studies of a partial-span ridge simulating a residual icing case and additional simple horn cases to supplement SWIP data are also presented. The aerodynamic performance results from the simple horn ice cases are consistent with the previously identified trends in earlier studies with a more limited range of horn angles.
UAV Icing: Intercycle Ice Effects on Aerodynamic Performance
Authors: Wallisch Joachim , Hann Richard
Published: June 2023

Atmospheric in-flight icing poses a challenge to all aircraft including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Aircraft should avoid icing conditions unless they have ways of mitigating the negative effects of icing, e.g., if they are equipped with an ice protection system (IPS). When de-icing systems are used, a certain amount of ice is allowed to accumulate before it is removed. This intercycle ice deteriorates the aerodynamics by reducing the lift, adding mass, and increasing the drag. This study combines the energy that is required to compensate for the added drag of intercycle ice shapes with the energy required for a wing IPS and compares the energy needs for different IPS operations. Two different kinds of intercycle ice shapes are simulated numerically using FENSAP-ICE, one ice shape that would accrete on an unprotected wing and one ice shape that would accrete when using a parting strip, a continuously heated element at the leading edge. The results show that both intercycle ice shapes deteriorate the aerodynamic performance of the airfoil significantly compared to a clean airfoil. Additionally, the results show that the aerodynamics deteriorate fastest in the initial stages of ice accretion, likely caused by fast horn growth and a fast transition from laminar to turbulent flow. The aerodynamic performance is combined with energy requirements of electrothermal de-icing tests in an icing wind tunnel. The results show that de-icing with a parting strip is more energy-efficient than de-icing without a parting strip and anti-icing. In addition, it is found that the energy required for the IPS on a wing is significantly larger than the energy required to compensate for the added intercycle drag. Considering these results during the development and operation of an IPS will help to improve the range and endurance of UAVs in icing conditions.
Development of an Ensemble-Based Forecasting Tool of Hazardous Icing Conditions for German Transmission System Operators
Authors: März Benedikt , Fundel Vanessa , Kalinka Frank , Schultze Markus , Schmidli Jürg
Published: June 2023

Weather situations that are associated with hazardous icing conditions near the ground impact multiple kinds of infrastructure. A prominent example of a transmission system failure due to wintry conditions was the snow storm over the Münsterland, Germany, in 2005, as exceptional high amounts of wet snow in conjunction with supercooled water led to heavy damages on conductor cables and tower collapses (Klinger et al., 2011). In this work, an interdisciplinary approach between energy and aviation meteorology is presented. The study was conducted for the purpose of providing a forecast tool of hazardous icing conditions for German transmission system operators (TSOs). TSOs are faced with icing on ground-based objects just like aviation on the ground.

For the purpose of obtaining an ensemble-based forecasting tool to detect hazardous icing of structures near the ground, the already existing aeronautical icing model “Advanced Diagnosis and Warning System for Aircraft Icing Environments” (ADWICE) (Tafferner et al., 2003; Leifeld, 2004) is expanded by the ensemble prediction system ICON-EU-EPS (ADWICE-EPS). Due to differences in meteorology and customer’s needs between in-flight icing conditions and icing on ground-based obstacles like transmission lines, ADWICE-EPS is tried to be tailored towards the scope of application. ADWICE’s ability to distinguish between different icing regimes (scenarios) is maintained and a forecasting tool for precipitation icing is developed by involving forecast fields of ICON-EU- EPS. In order to compare the performance of the original and the extended tool, case studies are conducted for this icing regime.

The findings suggest that modifications generate better results than the original tool. For the two precipitation icing case studies, certain aspects of the ADWICE algorithm cause biases. By implementing further data, the detected biases are lowered substantially. Limitations for this work arise from the small number of cases which at the same time provides a basis for future research.
Numerical Investigation of Pressure Tube Anti-Icing Heat Transfer
Authors: Thangavel Sathish , Bajpai Shivanshu
Published: June 2023

This work presents the anti-icing simulation results from a pressure sensing probe. This study used various turbulence models to understand their influence in surface temperature prediction. A fully turbulence model and a transition turbulence model are considered in this work. Both dry air and icing conditions are considered for this study. The results show that at low Angle of Attack (AOA) both turbulence model results compared well and at higher AOA the results deviated. Overall, as AOA increases, the k-ꞷ SST model predicted the surface temperature colder than the Transition SST model result.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Droplet Impingement Using a Lagrangian Particle Model
Authors: Jain Suhas , Bornhoft Brett , Bose Sanjeeb , Moin Parviz
Published: June 2023

Modeling of icing is important for the design of aircraft lifting surfaces and for the design of efficient propulsion systems. The computational modeling of ice accretion prediction is important to replace the expensive experimental techniques for calculating the ice shapes in Icing tunnels, and the first step toward modeling ice accretion is to accurately compute the droplet collection efficiency which acts as the input to the accretion model. In this work, we perform large-eddy simulations of supercooled droplet transport and impingement onto complex aircraft geometries using a Lagrangian particle approach. We assess the improvement in modeling droplet impingement by computing the droplet collection efficiency and by comparing with the existing experimental data.
Predicting the Collection Efficiency on a Generic Rotor Blade with a Three-Dimensional Eulerian Particle Solver
Authors: Buchen Philipp , Sotomayor-Zakharov Denis , Knop Inken
Published: June 2023

Ice accretion on helicopter rotor blades when flying through supercooled droplet clouds can severely affect aerodynamic properties and pose a significant threat to flight safety. In the design phase, manufacturers commonly use 2D or quasi-3D simulations to predict potential ice accretion, which are more economical than fully 3D approaches. However, these methods frequently encounter accuracy issues when predicting the precise amount of ice accretion because the 3D flow field significantly influences droplet trajectories and, as a result, impingement and accreted mass. For this study the Eulerian particle solver of the icing software DICEPS was upgraded from 2D to 3D using second-order schemes, ensuring numerical stability on unstructured mesh configurations. Validation of the 3D modifications was performed by comparing numerical results of the collection efficiency on a sphere with experimental data. Droplet trajectory calculations were then conducted on a NACA0012 rotor in hover flight using a rotating frame of reference, including centrifugal and Coriolis forces. Results indicated an expected increase in collection efficiency with increasing radial position and droplet Stokes number. In addition, the resolved 3D blade tip vortex of the preceding rotor blade resulted in a significant variance in collection efficiency for certain rotor radii. These findings highlight the importance of using full 3D simulations for accurate prediction of ice accretion on helicopter rotor blades and can aid in the development of improved design strategies for safe helicopter operations under icing conditions.
Advancements in CHAMPS for Multi-Layer Ice Accretion on Aircraft
Authors: Blanchet Maxime , Bourgault-Côté Simon , Laurendeau Eric
Published: June 2023

The numerical simulation of ice accretion on aircraft is a complex problem that is difficult to simulate robustly, especially in 3D. The process, which combines multiple different solvers, is prone to fail whenever the geometry deformation due to ice is too complex. Thus, the more ice layers, the more fragile is the simulation. This paper aims at studying, and possibly reducing, the dependency on the number of layers by considering i) the impact of the deforming surface on the impingement and ii) a local roughness modeling that can better position the ice horns.

The method called Impact Angle Correction (IAC) method in the literature is implemented and consists in setting in an additional loop the components solved on the surface, namely the thermodynamic exchanges and the geometry update, to consider the change in the surface normal vectors. For each of these ice sub-layers, the impingement water mass is recomputed by considering all droplet bins after each deformation of the surface. Two-dimensional results show that this method can reduce the dependency on the number of full ice layers.

A local roughness model is also implemented to impact the convective heat transfer simulation on the surface depending on local icing data. This local roughness could allow to better capture the ice horn locations, angle and height. Two-dimensional results presented in this work show in particular that lower horns are better captured when using a local roughness model. Three-dimensional glaze results show the effect of the coupling of both models for single-layer ice accretion, which can help capturing small-scale ice features.
A Tool for Remote Detection and Nowcasting of In-Flight Icing Using Satellite Data
Authors: Zollo Alessandra Lucia , Bucchignani Edoardo
Published: June 2023

In-flight icing is a major weather hazard to aviation; therefore, the remote detection of meteorological conditions leading to icing is a very aspired goal for the scientific community. In 2017, the Meteorological Laboratory of CIRA has developed a satellite-based tool for in-flight icing detection in collaboration with Italian Air Force Meteorological Service. Then, in the framework of the European project SENS4ICE, a further maturation of the previously developed algorithm has been achieved, in order to consider also Supercooled Large Drop (SLD) Icing Conditions. The tool relies on high-resolution satellite products based on Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) data. The aim of this product is to identify areas potentially affected by in-flight icing hazard, using information about the properties of clouds, remotely inferred from satellite, and the set of experimental curves and envelopes describing the interrelationship of icing-related cloud variables, that represent the icing reference certification rules, namely Appendix C and Appendix O to FAA 14 CFR Part 25 / EASA CS-25. Furthermore, starting from this detection product, a nowcasting tool has been developed with the aim to perform a forecast of the current icing conditions over a short period ahead. In the present work an overall description of the implemented tools for detection and nowcasting of icing conditions is provided. These tools will be used during the SENS4ICE flight test campaign, to be held in April 2023, which represents a good opportunity to validate them and to identify steps for future enhancements.
A Simple Prototype to Forecast High Ice Water Content Using TAT Anomalies as Training Data
Authors: Kalinka Frank , Butter Max , Jurkat Tina , De La Torre Castro Elena , Voigt Christiane
Published: June 2023

In the last decades there have been many temporary engine failures, engine-related events and erroneous airspeed indication measurements that occurred by a phenomenon known as Ice Crystal Icing (ICI). This type of icing mainly occurs in high altitudes close to tropical convection in areas with a high concentration of ice crystals. Direct measurements or in-situ pilot observations of ICI that could be used as a warning to other air-traffic are rare to nearly non-existent. To detect those dangerous high Ice Water Content (IWC) areas with already existing airborne measurement instruments, Lufthansa analyzed observed Total Air Temperature (TAT) anomalies and used a self-developed search algorithm, depicting those TAT anomalies that are related to ice crystal icing events.

To optimize the flight route for dispatchers several hours before the flight, e.g. for long distance flights through the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), reliable forecasts to identify hazardous high IWC regions are necessary. For this purpose, detected TAT anomalies were used as training data to find correlations in between these and the DWD’s ICON (ICOsahedral Non-hydrostatic) model output. The combination of obtained frequency distributions of model cloud ice water content, base and top of moist convection and specific humidity by a fuzzy logic leads to a model-based prototype to forecast areas with high IWC in a simple manner. To show the high potential of the prototype’s procedure, an ICI event as observed during the CIRRUS-HL (Cirrus in High Latitudes) flight campaign in 2021 serves as good validation case. Here we show first promising, as it is still under development.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia in a 13-Year-Old Boy
Authors: Oluoch Chrispine Onyango , Ikol James , Mburugu Gitobu , Gachie Maxwell , Inyangala Dennis
Published: June 2023

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is most common in men 40 years and above. It rarely occurs in childhood. As a result of the scarcity of cases, the  pathogenesis is not clear, and treatment of BPH in this age group is challenging. This report focuses on a 13-year-old patient diagnosed with a  histologically confirmed BPH, having presented with a 2-year history of recurrent hematuria and acute urinary retention. Magnetic resonance imaging  (MRI) revealed a 287 g prostatic mass, with no signs of malignancy nor metastasis detected. A decision for open suprapubic prostatectomy was made.  Postoperative follow-up at 1 year was uneventful. The possible causes of juvenile BPH have been postulated as gonadotropin supplementation for  cryptorchidism and human chorionic gonadotropin-containing agent use by the mother during pregnancy. Our case had a history of the right inguinal  undescended testis with scrotal orchidopexy done at 11 years of age. However, the patient had no history of human chorionic gonadotropin use,  endocrinologic abnormality, or other possible contributing factors. His antenatal history was normal, with no use of human chorionic gonadotropin by  the mother. Due to the very few reported cases, there is insufficient data to help understand the pathogenesis of childhood BPH.
Colonic Duplication Cyst with Gastric and Pancreatic Heterotopia: A Case Report
Authors: Tony Mwenyemali , Sam Odundo , Dedan Opondo , Etabale Mbayah , Bernard Awuonda
Published: June 2023

Colonic duplication is an uncommon congenital anomaly within the alimentary tract which may be missed on clinical examination. Clinical symptoms are generally related to the involved site, size of duplication, or the associated ectopic mucosa. This is a case report of a 7-month-old female patient admitted  in septic and hypovolemic shock, with severe anemia. Ultrasonography and computed tomography (CT) scans showed a left flank mass  suggesting intussusception. The patient was first stabilized with intravenous fluids, intravenous antibiotics, oxygen, and blood transfusion. At  laparotomy, the findings were a left paracolic cystic mass and an adjacent, complex retroperitoneal hemorrhagic mass. The histopathology report was consistent with a colonic duplication cyst with ectopic gastric and pancreatic mucosa. The patient improved after surgery and was discharged for routine  outpatient follow-up. Colonic duplication should be included in the differential diagnoses in children presenting with palpable abdominal masses.  Complete surgical removal of the symptomatic duplication is the treatment of choice.
Rupture of Splenic Artery Pseudoaneurysm with Pancreatitis: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Kang Taekyung , Kang Mi-Jin
Published: June 2023

Vascular involvement of pancreatic pseudocyst is a rare complication that can potentially result in a fatal outcome. If there is vascular involvement, the  splenic artery is most often involved; its rupture and massive bleeding into the peritoneal cavity or retroperitoneal space can lead to hypovolemic shock.  We report on a 66-year-old-male patient, who initially presented with atypical chest pain and was diagnosed with a rupture of the splenic artery  pseudoaneurysm resulting from chronic pancreatitis. The patient was successfully treated by transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE).The patient’s  condition improved and he was finally discharged without complications 22 days after admission. The splenic arterial involvement in the patient with  pancreatic pseudocyst is an uncommon complication. Chest pain with pleuritic symptom is often misdiagnosed as cardiovascular or pulmonary disease. Proper management depending on hemodynamic stability can prevent a life-threatening event.
Plasmid and Total Protein Analyses of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase Producing Bacteria from Periplaneta americana (Coackroaches)
Authors: Popoola Omolara Dorcas , Efuntoye Moses Olusola , Agu Georgia Chinemenwa , Thomas Benjamin Thoha
Published: June 2023

Background: The importance of plasmid-encoded Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamase (ESBL) organisms in the dissemination of multi-drug resistance  and complicated infections are contributory factors to treatment failure. Despite these, there is a paucity of information regarding plasmid-borne  associated infection from primary sources including cockroaches while studies correlating total protein and plasmid-encoded ESBL are also limited  especially in cockroaches. The objective of this study was therefore aimed at determining the presence of plasmid in the ESBL organisms from  cockroaches as well as their total protein profiles.

Materials and Methods: Bacterial isolation, characterization and molecular identification were carried out in our previous work following standard  recommended techniques. These molecularly identified organisms which were delineated into twenty-two (22) were further subjected to plasmid and  total protein analyses using alkaline lysis and Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate Poly Acrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) respectively.

Results: Results obtained identifies 18(81.8%) of the ESBL isolates to be harbouring plasmids of different molecular weights (2-21.5kbp). The total protein  profile of the plasmid-encoded ESBL and the non-plasmid encoded ESBL reveals differential protein expression patterns except for two non- plasmid encoded ESBL isolates that have similar patterns as that of plasmid-encoded ESBL organisms (isolates 2 and 3).

Conclusion: There is a need to monitor the primary sources of infection in the epidemiological distribution of resistance. Improving environmental  sanitation through proper disinfection of carrier insects may be a means to curtailing such spread.
Maternal Mental Health Needs When the Unexpected Happens: A cross-sectional study among mothers with preterm infants in Western Kenya
Authors: Mukabana Beatrice , Makworo G.M. Drusilla , Mwenda M.S. Catherine
Published: June 2023

Background: Mothers of preterm infants are usually unprepared for the baby’s birth earlier than expected, making them face emotional problems.  Preterm births have increased lately with World Health Organization reporting an estimated prevalence of up to 5–18% and Kenya reporting an 18.3%  prevalence. Mothers of preterm infants need special support to help them cope with this stressful event. The study determined the mental health needs  of mothers with preterm infants in the neonatal care unit.

Materials and Methods: It was a hospital-based cross-sectional study among 182 mothers with preterm babies admitted to neonatal care units of two  referral hospitals in Western Kenya. A simple random sampling technique was used to select the participants and data was collected using a semi- structured pretested questionnaire and Critical Care Family Needs Inventory scale (CCFNI). Analysis was done using STATA 15 and a significance level set at P≤ 0.05 and 95% confidence interval.

Results: The majority of the respondents 67 (36.8%) were aged between 18-22 years and 34 (18.7%) were above 34 years. The majority, 148 (81.3%) of the  mothers accepted that the needs indicated on the CCFNI scale were important. By subscales, responses from the information scale dominated the  top-ranked "very important" and "important" responses. The items concerning "to have questions answered honestly" from the information scale and “to  help with the infant's physical care” from the proximity scale were highly ranked “very important” (Mean, 3.50). Proximity and assurance sub-scales also dominated the top-ranked “very important” and “important” needs while support and comfort responses dominated the needs ranked slightly  important. There exists at least a significant difference among the means at a p-value=0.006.

Discussion: The results are contrary to those from a study carried out in Saudia and Georgia which ranked needs from the assurance scale as most  important, followed by proximity, information, comfort and finally support. However, the two studies are in agreement with the current study that needs  from the support and comfort scales were least important. The difference could have been brought about due to the difference in the study population.   

Conclusion: The most important mental health needs for mothers include proximity, assurance, and information. However, mothers with preterm babies  in neonatal units have unmet mental health needs which should be addressed.
Awareness of the spectrum condition of autism among pre-primary school teachers in Western Kenya
Authors: Sadia Moses , Ayodo George , Amimo Fred , Itotia Serah , Obinju Christine , Ściborski Romuald J.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Autism is a spectrum of neurodevelopmental disorders exhibited in early childhood with variable manifestations as children grow up. However, the level of awareness of the condition is poorly understood among pre-primary school teachers. This study, therefore, assessed the awareness of the spectrum condition of autism among pre-primary school teachers in western Kenya.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study design was employed and data collected from 321 participants using semi-structured questionnaires and Key Informant interviews. The participants were selected using purposive sampling. The quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and qualitative data analyzed thematically

RESULTS

The response rate was 76.9% with 16.8% (41) males and 83.2% (203) females. A total of 41.5% (n=110) of the teachers had never heard of autism. Of all teachers who had heard of autism, 100% (7) were from special needs schools, and 64.4% (67) and 45.1% (60) were from public and private schools, respectively. About 78.8% (105) of teachers perceived autism as a neurodevelopmental disability and academically challenged children, 15% (20) as a psychiatric illness similar to madness, 4.5% (6) as spiritual affliction/demon-possessed children and 1.5% (2) as parental neglected children.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This study shows that pre-primary school teachers have inadequate awareness of the spectrum condition of autism, and this limits educational service delivery. This study therefore recommends special training for pre-primary school teachers and improvement of the curriculum and training to include the spectrum condition of autism.
Predictors of Birth Asphyxia among neonates in Dodoma Region Tanzania: A matched case-control study
Authors: Gemuhay Helena Marco , Kalolo Albino , Ali Saada , Kibusi Stephen
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCTION

There has been an increase in the morbidity and mortality rates among neonates born with Birth Asphyxia (BA) in Africa including Tanzania. Despite the efforts made by the stakeholders the problem of BA is still persistently increasing. The study aimed at determining the predictors of BA among neonates in the Dodoma region of Tanzania.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study employed a matched case-control study design and was conducted between May-August 2021. A total of 317 neonates were recruited in the study. Data were collected by using questionnaires whereby information related to maternal and neonatal characteristics was collected. The association between variables was determined using the Chi-square test and logistic regression.

RESULTS

Among the cases, the majority were females (68.36%) and 31.64% in the controls. Odds of developing BA were 3 times among neonates with meconium stains (AOR=3.731, C I [1.764,7.937]. p=0.0006), and 2 times among neonates with a birth weight of 2500-3999 (AOR =2.127, [1.110,4.078], p=0.0230) while not having complications during pregnancy was a protective factor (AOR= 0.326[0.171,0.624], p=0.0007).

CONCLUSION

Membrane rupture and birth weight were positively associated with BA and having no complications was negatively associated with BA.
Health service factors influencing uptake of cervical visual inspection with acetic acid in selected health facilities in Embu County, Kenya
Authors: Evah M. M. , Abednego O. , Innocent M. , Emmah M.
Published: June 2023

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among females in developing countries. Despite widespread screening efforts for cancer of the cervix and training on VIA/VILLI, deaths due to cervical cancer remain high. This study aimed to determine Health Service Provider factors influencing the uptake of cervical cancer screening by VIA in selected health facilities in Embu County, Kenya.

METHODOLOGY

Data were collected from 14 healthcare providers who were the initial study respondents from 7 purposively selected health facilities. Data collection tools were self-administered questionnaires and structured interviews for key informants. Additional secondary data were obtained from the health facility records and KDHS 2014. For data analysis, both quantitative and qualitative techniques of analysis were applied.

RESULTS

Lack of awareness creation on VIA, lack of skills to do VIA, lack of supplies for VIA, cost and fear of speculum examination by women were some factors leading to low uptake of cervical cancer screening.

CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Increasing awareness of VIA needs to be done such as through recruitment of male champions for cervical cancer screening to mobilize and participate in awareness campaigns. Moreover, there needs to be an increase in the number of health care providers trained in VIA and cryotherapy and creating a pool of trainers of other health service providers. Additionally, the provision of VIA supplies needs to be ensured and VIA services offered free of charge. MOH and county governments' departments of health should ensure support supervision at least once per quarter to the health care workers trained on VIA.
Physicochemical Characteristics of Borehole Water Sources in a Tertiary Educational Institution in Katsina, Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Muhammad B. I. , Shitu T. , Zambuk U. U. , Amamat A. Y.
Published: June 2023

Physicochemical parameters are very crucial to get the exact idea about the quality of water in order to protect the natural ecosystem and also compare data obtained with standard values. This study focuses on determining the physicochemical properties of borehole water samples distributed within a tertiary educational institution in Katsina, Nigeria using standard methods. Data obtained reveals that, the pH of the water samples ranged from 6.75 – 7.78, Temperature 24.5 – 31.5oC, Dissolved oxygen (DO) 3.79 – 4.98 mg/L, Biological oxygen demand (BOD) 0.25 – 1.32 mg/L, Turbidity 0.78 – 10.00 NTU, Electrical conductivity 56.85 – 220.00 µS/cm, Total dissolved solids 2.25 – 19.00 mg/L, Total hardness 3.32 – 7.24 mg/L. Chlorides and Sulphate levels ranged from 0.95 – 5.99 mg/L and 0.17 – 0.34 mg/L respectively. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences in most values obtained at different sites at P ≤ 0.05. The water quality within the institution fell within the permissible standards of the WHO and therefore safe. However, the study recommends continuous surveillance of the water supplies at different seasonal intervals in order to determine any effect of seasonal variation on the quality of water and the commercialization of the water supplies into a table water factory in the nearest future.
Performance Modelling of Co-Fired Palm Kernel Shell -Pulverized Coal Blend in Steam Power Plant
Authors: Ighodaro O. O. , Ndem F. E.
Published: June 2023

This study investigates the performance of co-firing palm kernel shell (PKS) and pulverized coal in a steam power cycle. The process simulation software Aspen Hysys was used in the simulation. The study analyzed the various emitted combustion product gases. The cycle efficiency and Power output for each fuel sample blend was carried out.  This provided the basis for the performance comparison of each fuel sample. The Sample D with mix ratio 80 (coal)-20 (PKS) came out the best fuel blend having a CO2 emission of 1844.198854 Kgmol/h, an SO2 emission of 8.830612928 kgmol/h, a cycle efficiency of 0.41 and an estimated power of 104, 076 kW.  It was concluded that coal blended with palm kernel shell at a mix ratio of 80-20 has a suitable heating value for steam generation which promotes a cleaner coal usage with a significant reduction in the emission levels of greenhouse gases.
Effect of Sewage Wastewater on the Growth of Microalga-Arthrospira platensis (Nordstedt)
Authors: Akhere M. A. , Agholor D. O.
Published: June 2023

This study presents the effect of sewage waste water on the growth of microalga Arthrospira platensis using appropriate standard methods. The results showed that different concentrations of sewage waste water affected the growth of Arthrospira platensis. A comparison of the growth responses of the different treatments revealed that there was significant difference (p<0.05) with the control (0%) and 5% treatments having the highest mean values for growth when compared with other treatments. Among the different treatments, 30% treatment had the highest inhibitive effect on the growth of the test microalga while growth was stimulated in control (0%) and 5% treatments.  The highest growth inhibition was observed in 30% treatment. Total dissolved solids, conductivity and pH showed significant increase in all treatments while there was a decrease in temperature and biological oxygen demand. A reduction in chemical oxygen demand was also observed in all treatments.
Effect of Activated Lime and Kaolin as Partial Replacement for Cement in Concrete Structure
Authors: Kevin O. K. , Habibu A. S. , Adejoh B. O. , Mustapha A.
Published: June 2023

This research presents the effect of activated lime and activated kaolin as a cement replacement on the properties of concrete. A natural clay sample known as kaolin and lime was activated through thermal activation and used to partially replaced cement. %-¾ size aggregate was used in the casting of concrete cubes using 150mm x 150mm x 150mm for grades 20 and 25, and 150mm x 150mm x 150mm mould using a mix ratio of 1:2:4 for grade 20 and 1:1 ½: 3 for grade 25. The water-cement ratio adopted for the experiment was 0.55. A preliminary laboratory investigation was conducted include; sieve analysis, bulk density, specific gravity, aggregate impact value (AIV), aggregate crushing value (ACV), flakiness test, and elongation test. Also setting time of cement and standard consistency test was carried out. A Different replacement was cast and cured for 7, 14, and 28 days, and crushed. The compressive strength was gotten and conclusion a drawn.
Adsorption of Pb2+, Co2+, and Cd2+ from Aqueous Solution Using Nitric Acid Modified Kola Nut Husk Adsorbent
Authors: Adeleke A. E. , Onifade A. P. , Sangoremi A. A. , Anifowose A. J. , Isola O. E. , Olawoye B. M.
Published: June 2023

The potential of nitric acid modified kola nut pod adsorbent (MKNP) in removing selected heavy metals such as lead (Pb2+), cobalt (Co2+), and cadmium (Cd2+) ions from aqueous solution was investigated. FTIR spectra before and after the adsorption indicates the presence of functional groups such as hydroxyl and carboxylic acid which are responsible for its surface chemistry. The percentage removal largely depends on pH, contact time and temperature. The results showed that metal ions removal at optimum pH, contact time and temperature were: (Pb2+: 89.58, 97.04, 97.11%); (Co2+: 77.53, 75.17, 65.42%), and (Cd2+: 96.99, 97.06, 96.94%) respectively. The thermodynamic studies revealed that the enthalpy change was negative across the initial metal ion concentrations, indicating that the adsorption process was exothermic. The Gibb’s free energy change (∆G) values at all temperatures (298, 313, 328, 343 and 358K) were also negative, indicating that the adsorption process was spontaneous and feasible. Kinetics parameters obtained showed that pseudo-second order was obeyed throughout the adsorption process. In conclusion, from the favorability of the adsorption process, MKNP would be an efficient, eco-friendly and cheap adsorbent in removing toxic heavy metals ions from wastewater and industrial effluents.
A review on medicinal plants used in the management of liver diseases in West Africa
Authors: Doumbia Sékou , Denou Adama , Haidara Mahamane , Dembele Daouda Lassine , Fofie N’Guessan Bra Yvette , Sanogo Rokia
Published: June 2023

In West Africa, there is an extensive demand of plants traditionally used against liver diseases. This review gathered information on the plants used for the traditional management of liver diseases in West Africa. A literature review was used to gather information on medicinal plants such as the scientific names, the parts used, the forms prepared and the main liver diseases treated. Citation frequency and convergence score were calculated for each species. The findings presented 24 articles published in West Africa with a total of 401 species distributed in 283 genera belonging to 103 families. The Fabaceae family was the most represented with 73 species. The most cited species were Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae), Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swing. (Rutaceae), Cochlospermum tinctorium Perr. ex A. Rich (Cochlosmarmaceae), Entada africana Guill. And Perr. (Fabaceae), Parkia biglobosa (Jacq.) R.Br. ex G.Don (Fabaceae) and Phyllanthus amarus Schumach. & Thonn. (Euphorbiaceae). These plant species presented the highest citation frequencies and convergence scores. The leaves were mostly used in the form of decoction. The main diseases recorded were related to jaundice. Safety, quality and efficacy data on some of these plants justify their traditional uses and will contribute to the development of new phytomedicines against liver diseases.
Groundwater Potential Mapping using Geospatial and AHP Techniques in Eastern Province of Rwanda
Authors: Ngwijabagabo Hyacinthe , Tsinda Aime , Dusengimana Angelique , Minani Marc , Tuyishime Cardinard Simon Pierre , Hirwa Hubert , Habimana Innocent
Published: June 2023

The article presents an analysis of the potential groundwater recharge zones in the Eastern Province of Rwanda using Geographic Information System  (GIS) technology. The groundwater potential zones (GWPZs) in the area are influenced by several factors. To conduct the spatial analysis, seven theme  layers were created and integrated, including geology, drainage density, rainfall, slope, soil, land use and land cover (LULC), and normalized difference  vegetation index (NDVI). The Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP), based on multiple criteria, was utilized to assign weights to each layer. By overlaying the  theme layers with the prescribed weights, a map of potential groundwater recharge zones was generated. These zones were classified into five  categories: poor, fair, medium, good, and excellent, representing 173 km2 (1.9 %), 1002 km2 (11.3%), 5976 km2 (67.2%), 1732 km2 (19.5%), and 12 km2  (0.1%), respectively. The findings revealed that a significant portion of the study area exhibited good to moderate potential zones for groundwater. Among the seven districts in the Eastern Province, Rwamagana district had the highest coverage of good and excellent groundwater potential zones,  accounting for 59% and 1% of the area, respectively. The accuracy of the GWPZ map was assessed by comparing it with borehole yield data, demonstrating the reliability of the chosen methodology. These validated results provide valuable support for the sustainable management and strategic  utilization of groundwater resources in the study area. The study outcomes can guide decision-makers in making informed choices regarding  the conservation of groundwater resources in the research area.