bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vitamin B group levels and supplementations in dermatology: Review of the literature
Authors: Elgharably Noura , Al Abadie Miriam , Al Abadie Mohammed , Ball Patrick , Morrissey Hana
Published: July 2022

Irregularities of vitamin levels are being increasingly identified associated with skin conditions, and systemic and topical therapies have shown promising improvements. There have been some remarkable improvements achieved, but large variations in outcomes suggest that these conditions are not simply related to a single deficiency or solved by providing a single supplement. Cyanocobalamin, pyridoxine (B6) and riboflavin (B2) supplementation were linked with exacerbating existing acne. There were also reports of allergic reactions to parenteral cobalamin including acne, rosacea, allergic site reactions or anaphylaxis with cobalamin injections. This was also reported in patients who had allergic contact dermatitis to cobalt, where cobalamin therapy resulted in cutaneous manifestations such as chronic vesicular hand dermatitis, cheilitis and stomatitis. The use of niacinamide in acne vulgaris as an alternative to clindamycin or adjunct is also notable, as well as its application for hyperpigmentation. Vitamin B3 also has promise in chemoprevention in particular non-melanoma skin cancer prophylaxis. Folic acid has a developing role is psoriasis. The data for vitiligo remains inconclusive. Assessment for potential vitamin deficiency, particularly B vitamins, should form part of the normal work-up for a wide range of skin conditions.
Comparison of two ovarian stimulation protocols among women with poor response: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Bavarsadkarimi Minoodokht , Omidi Sirous , Shahmoradi Farinaz , Heidar Zahra , Mirzaei Sahar
Published: July 2022

This is a randomized controlled trial conducted in a tertiary referral fertility department. Participants were women with previous poor ovarian response undergoing in vitro fertilization. (IVF). One hundred and ninety-two women were randomized to the short GnRH agonist and antagonist regimens. The primary outcome was the number of oocytes retrieved. Secondary outcome measures were the number of embryos transferred, chemical and clinical pregnancy rate and live birth. The number of oocytes retrieved was higher with the gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist regimen compared to the short agonist regimen (3.10 2.70 vs. 2.992.60), but there was no significant difference. The duration of stimulation and total gonadotropin dose were higher with short agonist regimens compared to antagonist regimens, with the latter being statistically significant (p < 0.001). The chemical pregnancy rate was 8.33 percent with the short agonist regimen and 7.29 percent with the antagonist regimen, with no statistically significant difference (p = 0.79). In terms of lower cycles cancelation and higher chemical pregnancy, short GnRH agonist regim is appropriate choice for poor responders.
Effects and Prospects of the Integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine with Western Biomedical Approach for Premature Ejaculation
Authors: Elena Colonnello , Fu Wang , Juo Guo , Emmanuele Jannini A.
Published: July 2022

Abstract

Premature ejaculation (PE) is a frequently reported sexual dysfunction that has received considerable clinical attention in China. Being intrinsically related to cultural aspects, PE in the Chinese scientific environment is often treated using a combination of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) techniques and a Western biomedical approach. In this perspective article, we highlight the most recent effects of the use of acupuncture, herbal medicine, and Fangzhongshu techniques, each alone and in combination with Western medicine, for delaying ejaculation; however, the efficacy of such therapies is not always supported by high-quality randomized control trials. To bridge the traditional holistic, individual-targeted perspective of TCM with Western biomedical approaches, we present the paradigm of the new Systems Sexology, derived from the well-known systems medicine, which may fill this gap by perfectly blending the most advanced technologies for an innovative, integrative, and interdisciplinary approach.
Quality of Life Post Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Alomran Abdallah S.
Published: July 2022

Background and Objective:

Osteoarthritis of knee is quite common in Saudi Arabian population. Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was reluctantly accepted in Saudi Arabia about 2 decades ago but there are few small number reports on quality of life (QOL) postsurgery. The objective of this study was to investigate the QOL and overall satisfaction postTKA.

Methods:

We retrospectively studied 200 patients’ consecutive patients who underwent primary TKA at King Fahd Hospital of the University, AlKhobar, Saudi Arabia. Patient's age, sex, weight, height, body mass index, and range of movements at the time of surgery were extracted from the QuadraMED patients Database. The minimum follow-up was 24 months. At the last visit of 24 months, patients were evaluated using modified Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (MWOMAC), QOL using Short Form-36 Health Survey (SF-36), and patient satisfaction was assessed.

Results:

Among the 212 TKAs performed, 52 were male and 148 were female. One hundred and twenty two were right side and 90 were left side and 22 were bilateral. The mean age was 62.7 ± 5.1 years. There were no intraoperative complications. Nearly 95% resulted in patient satisfaction. SF-36 and all the parameters assessed significantly improved (P < 0.001). MWOMAC scores of the patients, which show all functions, had statistically significantly improved to (P < 0.001) except prayers before and after surgery did not change which was expected. The overall level of satisfaction was observed 95% of patients.

Conclusions:

Our study shows that TKA has a positive effect on pain, mobility, QOL, and ultimate satisfaction.
The Biphasic Phenomenon of Cytokine Storm in COVID Pneumonia
Authors: Shah Nehal M. , Khambholja Janakkumar R. , Suthar Nilay N. , Purohit Hemang M.
Published: July 2022

COVID-19 is a viral disease that commonly presents with mild symptoms with predominant respiratory system involvement. However, it can cause serious complications such as acute respiratory disease, multi-organ dysfunction, especially in patients with comorbidities. As it is a new disease, the full picture of the disease and its complications are not yet fully understood. Moreover, the patients at risk of complications are not well identified, and the data about the biphasic pattern of cytokine storm syndrome are limited. Here, we report the case of a 64-year-old male having diabetes mellitus, hypertension, ischemic heart disease with triple-vessel coronary artery disease tested positive for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, then complicated with acute respiratory distress syndrome and two waves of cytokine storm in 28 days.
Anesthesia for Inguinal Hernia Repair
Authors: Nnadozie Ugochukwu Uzodimma , Sunday-Nweke Nneka Alice , Maduba Charles Chidiebele , Madu Chinedu Ignatius , Nnamonu Michael Ikechukwu , Akunekwe Mishack Ikechukwu , Igboanugo Arinze Aetelbert , Okeke Valentine Uche
Published: July 2022

Background:

The dearth of adequate facilities and anesthetists limits the number and extent of surgical cases that can be attended to in surgical outreach programs. Inguinal hernia remains a common health burden in the developing world. Tertiary hospitals provide good anesthetic complements to safe surgeries and will be a veritable tool in surgical outreaches.

Objectives:

The objective of the study is to assess the types/techniques of anesthesia used in uncomplicated open inguinal hernia repair in a tertiary hospital-based surgical outreach program.

Materials and Methods:

This study was a prospective analysis of anesthetic techniques used in all uncomplicated inguinal hernia repairs performed in outreach program over 1 week in May 2018. Data were collected with a pro forma, analyzed with SPSS, and presented in tables and figures.

Results:

One hundred and ninety-five patients with uncomplicated inguinal hernias were recruited for the study. The patients’ age ranged from 0 to 89 years, with a mean age of 33.62 ± 22.75 years. Most cases occurred in children. The male-to-female ratio was 7:1, and the majority were primary hernia repairs. Eighty-seven (44.6%) patients had local anesthesia (LA), 65 (33.3%) had general anesthesia (GA), while 43 (22.1%) had spinal anesthesia (SA). One hundred and sixty-two (83.1%) patients needed intraoperative analgesic augmentation. One hundred and sixty-nine (86.7%) patients were operated as day-case surgeries, while 26 (13.3%) patients were discharged the day after surgery. The failure rate of LA and SA put together was 74.6%, but there was no conversion to GA. Anesthetic complication was observed in 3.4% of cases.

Conclusion:

Organizing inguinal hernia repair outreach in a tertiary hospital offers the benefit of a full complement of anesthesia, which ensures safe and smooth surgery with low anesthetic complications. Most cases were done as daycare surgeries despite the high failure rate of LA and SA.
Comparison of Hemodynamic Changes in Patients Undergoing Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy using rocuronium and vecuronium for Intubation and Maintenance under General Anesthesia
Authors: Juneja Nikhita , Alam Md Shahbaz , Varshney Vipin Kumar , Gogia Pratiksha , Prasad Mukesh Kumar , Jheetay Gurdeep Singh
Published: July 2022

Context:

The context of the study is to compare and find better muscle relaxant between rocuronium and vecuronium for intubation and maintenance under general anesthesia in patients undergoing laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Aims:

The aim of the study is to measure intubating condition, hemodynamic changes during intubation and also during maintenance of general anesthesia and to record complications, if any.

Settings and Design:

A prospective clinical study conducted in the Department of Anesthesiology in tertiary care center.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 100 patients of the American Society of Anesthesiologists Classes Grade I and II were planned for laparoscopic cholecystectomy were divided into two groups of 50 each. The subjects in the control and study group were put under anesthesia using injection propofol 2.0 mg.kg−1 along with injection vecuronium 0.10 mg.kg−1 and injection propofol 2.0 mg.kg−1 along with injection rocuronium 0.60 mg.kg−1, respectively. Hemodynamic monitoring and oxygen saturation (SPO2) were recorded at various intervals.

Statistical Analysis Used:

All the collected data were imported into Microsoft Excel, and the statistical analysis was done by using SPSS 25.0 version.

Results:

The mean heart rate before and after carboperitoneum at different time intervals and before and after extubation was significantly lower in vecuronium group. The mean systolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure at 1 and 5 minutes after extubation were significantly more among vecuronium group.

Conclusions:

Rocuronium is reasonably cardiostable, produces excellent intubation conditions, has a shorter duration of action, and shows minimal cumulative effect.
Conjunctival congestion after laparoscopic operation in children: A retrospective case series in a single-centre children’s medical centre
Authors: Gong Hong-Lei , Yang Na , Zhao Qing-Kai , Zhao Ji-Cun , Wu He
Published: July 2022

Objective:

In the present study, we report a retrospective analysis of 23 cases of conjunctival congestion after laparoscopic operation in children and try to explore the causes and intervention measures.

Methods and Results:

This is a retrospective, single-centre and observational study, and all patients with conjunctival congestion after laparoscopic operation admitted to our institution between August 2021 and December 2021 were included in this study. Records of 23 patients including 16 male patients and 7 female patients were retrospectively analysed. These patients were in the age group of 2–12 years. Their primary symptom was different degrees of conjunctival congestion, and the symptom onset was between 2 and 7 days after laparoscopic operation, including laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair, laparoscopic appendectomies, laparoscopic Meckel’s diverticulectomy, laparoscopic removal of foreign body ingestions and laparoscopic choledochal cystectomy, and the duration of operations varies from 20 min to 255 min. The symptom disappeared from 5 to 21 days after the operation, and the duration of the symptom ranged from 2 to 14 days. A total of 1718 operations were performed, of which 461 were laparoscopic and 1257 were general operations, the incidence of conjunctival congestion after laparoscopic surgery was 23/461, and compared with 0/1257 after ordinary surgery, there was a significant difference between them. Of these 23 patients, 5 patients received no treatment and the other 18 patients were intervened with steroid-containing eye drops. Although eye drops containing steroids can significantly relieve eye discomfort, the duration of conjunctival congestion between the two groups (i.e. steroid-containing eye drop treated vs. non-steroid-containing eye drop treated) did not differ significantly. All patients recovered well. In the follow-up till the end of February 2022, no serious complications had occurred.

Conclusion:

Conjunctival congestion after laparoscopic operation is extremely rare in children, and the underlying causes are still unclear. We speculate that the pressure of pneumoperitoneum may be the main cause of this phenomenon. Symptoms may be self-limiting, and steroid-containing eye drops can relieve effectively the discomfort.
Prevalence, severity, and risk factor of breakthrough infection after vaccination with either the Covaxin or the Covishield among healthcare workers: A nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: Krishna Bhavya , Gupta Anju , Meena Kaushal , Gaba Astha , Krishna Shreya , Jyoti Ruchika , Aeron Neha , Prashanth Shruti , Samriti  , Ganapathy Usha
Published: July 2022

Background and Aims:

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has grappled the entire globe since the beginning of 2020. In India, two vaccines were released in January 2021, the Covaxin® and the Covishield™. However, despite vaccination, many breakthrough infections were reported during the second wave in India. The present cross-sectional study aimed to find out prevalence, severity, and associated risk factors of breakthrough infection among healthcare workers (HCWs) vaccinated against COVID-19.

Material and Methods:

After ethical approval and CTRI registration, a validated questionnaire was circulated as Google form-based survey to HCWs across the nation through e-mail over 3 weeks. Biweekly reminders were sent to nonresponders till the desired sample size was attained, after which the survey was closed, and responses were charted. Data obtained from the responses were collated and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 1096 HCWs responded to the survey (54.8% response rate) and 23.36% had breakthrough infection. The severity of infection was more in the 30–50 years age group (P = 0.0170) and doctors belonging to clinical branches (P = 0.0005). The point estimate for effectiveness in preventing infection was significantly better with Covishield™ (78.5% vs. 72.4%) (P = 0.0260). Nearly all those who were infected after vaccination thought that vaccination decreased disease severity.

Conclusion:

Breakthrough COVID-19 infection still occurred after vaccination though the prevalence of severe infection was low. Covishield™ performed significantly better than Covaxin® in terms of preventing the disease. Clinical branches of medicine were found at a higher risk and younger HCWs or those with comorbidities had a higher severity of the disease.
A Review of Airborne Contaminated Microorganisms Associated with Human Diseases
Authors: Hussain Hazim H. , Ibraheem Nagham T. , Al-Rubaey Niran Kadhim F. , Radhi Mohammed Malih , Hindi Nada Khazal Kadhim , AL-Jubori Rusull Hamza Kh.
Published: July 2022

Biological contaminants refer to environmental contamination and food source with living microorganisms such as bacteria, molds, viruses, and fungi, in addition to mites, house dust, and pollen. Temperature, relative humidity, movement of air, and sources of nutrients have influenced the presence and spread of biological contaminants. Numerous living microorganisms can grow independently on each other, such as bacteria and fungi. Viruses (a small obligate parasite) depend on other living organisms for their development and for performing vital functions. Indoor air can contaminate with biological contaminants by a different status, including living, dead, or debris of the dead microorganisms which were transported through ventilation systems, when the microorganism components dissolve in water. They become aerosolized when the contaminants are physically disturbed, like in renovation or construction, and when the contaminants discharge harmful gases into the indoor environment. Most studies conducted in recent years agree that air pollution rates are increasing, bringing more risks to human health, as pollution is related to the risk of heart and lung disease and its effect on children, especially infants and newborns. Also, environmental pollution may have become the most dangerous disaster faced by humans, because it means environment retrogradation in which humans lives as a result of an imbalance within the compatibility of the constituent elements and loses its ability to carry out its natural role in self-removal of contaminants by the natural factors noticeable within air, land, and water. In some cases, many common infections can spread through airborne contaminated microorganisms such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis, measles virus (MV), influenza virus, Morbillivirus, chickenpox virus, norovirus, enterovirus, less commonly coronavirus, adenovirus, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). When an infected person coughs, talks, sneezes, has throat secretions, and releases nasal into the air, the airborne infection can spread. Bacteria or viruses spread out noticeably in the air or ground and transport to other persons or surfaces. This review provides the conception of biological contaminants and their properties, nature of the indoor environment, and adverse health effects associated with biological contaminants.
Assessing the Prevalence and Socio-Demographic Determinants of the Unsolved Problem of Perceived Social Stigma
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Alapan , Samanta Sampriti , Mukherjee Abhijit , Bhattacherjee Sharmistha
Published: July 2022

Background:

Leprosy has been affecting the human race since millennia, characterized by widespread, slow-healing lesions that lead to severe physical deformities. Along with its communicability, leprosy patients have therefore been subjected to widespread social stigma all over the world. Even though a largely effective national program has reduced the incidence of cases substantially in India, stigma has persisted. The present study aimed to assess the perceived stigma among leprosy patients living in rural areas and receiving care in a rural leprosy clinic of Northern West Bengal, India and to determine different factors associated with it.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 61 leprosy patients over the month of January 2021. The Explanatory Model Interview Catalog (EMIC) stigma scale was used to measure the perceived social stigma. Descriptive statistics and a multivariable linear regression analysis were used to present and explain the data.

Results:

Illiteracy and low socio-economic status were prevalent among the patients. The perceived stigma scores ranged from 4 to 35, with a mean of 23.36 ± 9.13. When adjusted for predictor variables such as age, sex, marriage, education, and socio-economic status, it was seen that perceived social stigma increased significantly (P-value=0.029) with increasing age. Female sex (P-value=0.022), illiteracy (P-value=0.017), and Grade 2 disability (P-value=0.009) were also significantly associated.

Conclusion:

The study observed that the overall perceived stigma levels among leprosy patients in this region were still high. This signals an enduring persistence of the problem. It is of urgent need to develop and implement stigma reduction strategies.
Bavard’s duality theorem for mixed commutator length
Authors: Kawasaki Morimichi , Kimura Mitsuaki , Matsushita Takahiro , Mimura Masato
Published: July 2022

Let

N

be a normal subgroup of a group

G

. A quasimorphism

f

on

N

is

G

-invariant if

f(gxg^{-1}) = f(x)

for every

g \in G

and every

x \in N

. The goal of this paper is to establish Bavard’s duality theorem of

G

-invariant quasimorphisms, which was previously proved by Kawasaki and Kimura for the case

N = [G,N]

Our duality theorem provides a connection between

G

-invariant quasimorphisms and

(G,N)

-commutator lengths. Here, for

x \in [G,N]

, the

(G,N)

-commutator length

\operatorname{cl}_{G,N}(x)

of

x

is the minimum number

n

such that

x

is a product of

n

commutators, which are written as

[g,h]

with

g \in G

and

h \in N

. In the proof, we give a geometric interpretation of

(G,N)

-commutator lengths. As an application of our Bavard duality, we obtain a sufficient condition on a pair

(G,N)

under which

\operatorname{scl}_G

and

\operatorname{scl}_{G,N}

are bi-Lipschitz equivalent on

[G,N]

.
Muscle Growth and Anabolism in Intensive Care Survivors (GAINS) trial: a pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Anstey Matthew H , Rauniyar Rashmi , Fitzclarence Ethan , Tran Natalie , Osnain Emma , Mammana Bianca , Jacques Angela , Palmer Robert N , Chapman Andrew , Wibrow Bradley
Published: July 2022

cataBackground:To explore the feasibility, safety, and potential benefits of administration of the anabolic steroid nandrolone to patients in the recovery phase from critical illness weakness.Methods: In this phase II, double blind, randomized, controlled trial, adult critically ill patients admitted to one of two tertiary Intensive Care Units in Western Australia for longer than 7 days with significant weakness were enrolled. Patients received nandrolone (200 mg males, 100 mg females) intramuscularly or placebo weekly for up to 3 weeks in addition to standard care. The primary outcome measures were improvement in grip strength, Medical Research Council muscle strength sum score, and functional activity level (Chelsea critical care assessment tool [CPAx]).Results: A total of 22 patients was enrolled between September 2017 and May 2019. No significant adverse events were detected. Median grip strength change was non-significantly greater in the nandrolone group (8.5 vs. 13.0, P=0.185), while hospital length of stay (36 vs. 26 days, P=0.023) and duration of mechanical ventilation (377 vs. 168, P=0.032) were lower. The discharge CPAx and intensive care unit mobility scores were higher in the nandrolone group, although there was no difference in the change in CPAx score (17.0 vs. 17.7, P=0.865). There were no changes in ultrasound-detected muscle thickness between the two groups.Conclusions: In patients with prolonged critical illness, nandrolone appears to be safe. However, a larger study, potentially combined with resistance exercise, is needed to definitively address the potential benefits of nandrolone.
Myélome multiple anaplasique : à propos d’un cas clinique
Authors: Mechtoune Mustapha , Lahlimi Fatima Zahra , Tazi Illias , Krifch Mouad , Chakour Mohamed , Elbaroudi Oussama , Amer Ohamed Ait , El Yahyaoui Hicham
Published: July 2022

Le myélome multiple anaplasique (MMA) est une forme rare et très agressive, caractérisée par le développement d'un clone de plasmocytes  tumoraux immatures et peu différenciés avec une atteinte extra médullaire fréquente. La morphologie anaplasique peut être présente lors du  diagnostic initial ou peut apparaître plus tard au cours de la maladie. Le MMA est très résistant à la chimiothérapie et se caractérise par une  mauvaise réponse aux nouvelles thérapies et un pronostique sombre. Nous rapportons, le cas d’un patient âgé de 57 ans suivi pour myélome  multiple à IgG Kappa, qui présente une rechute extra médullaire en post autogreffe en myélome multiple anaplasique.

 

English title: Anaplastic multiple myeloma: a case report

Anaplastic multiple myeloma (AMM) is a rare and very aggressive form of myeloma, characterized by the development of an immature and poorly  differentiated tumor plasma cell clone with frequent extra marrow involvement. Anaplastic morphology may be present at initial diagnosis or may  appear later in the course of the disease. AMM is highly resistant to chemotherapy and is characterized by a poor response to new therapies and a  poor prognosis. We reported the case of a 57-year-old patient followed for IgG Kappa multiple myeloma who presented with an extramedullary  relapse post autologous bone  marrow transplantation into anaplastic multiple myeloma.
A Geoeconomic Planning and Evaluation Model for Artisanal Small-Scale Gold Mining in Ghana
Authors: Gyebuni R. , Ansah K. O. , Mireku-Gyimah D.
Published: July 2022

Following calls for comprehensive National Action Plans (NAPs) that outline training programmes for the handling of mercury and strategies for reducing emissions from artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) under the Minamata Convention, other follow-up calls intensified the need for the formalisation or regulation of ASGM in the sector. Aside from the precarious emission of mercury and hazards to the environment, the ASGM sector resorts to unsafe methods for exploiting minerals due to inadequate funding. It is not surprising that anti-mining groups constantly advocate against mining in general as a result of the harm unprofessional ASGM operators expose man and the environment to. In this light, several studies have been conducted to propose safe techniques of exploiting minerals by ASGM operators and the need for governments to regulate the sector through legal instruments. Unfortunately, the problems of ASGM seem to linger on. Notwithstanding, much attention has not been given to the formulation of procedures for accurate resource estimation and subsequent feasibility studies of ASGM, which could probably be a major cause of ASGM challenges. This study proposes Inverse Distance Weighting (IDW)  technique for estimating the concentration of alluvium gold. The IDW method was successfully applied to the alluvial deposit of the Mpeasem Gold Project, and practical results were obtained for economic evaluations. The total volume of alluvial gold deposits was 3.4 Mm3 at an average grade of 0.46 g/m3. Economic evaluation yielded a net present value (NPV) and internal rate of return (IRR) of USD 2.8 M and 48%, respectively. The results indicate that reasonable data from outcrop sampling, pitting and trenching, and detailed cost estimates can present a more compelling case for funding. This way, the funding inadequacies which contribute to the use of shortcuts and unsafe tools, materials, and methods can be minimised.
Evaluation of Improved Bioremediation Strategy for the Treatment of Abattoir Wastewater using Bacillus licheniformis ZUL012
Authors: Ajao A. T. , Yusuf-Salihu B. O.
Published: July 2022

The abattoir generates a large volume and variety of biowastes, posing a high risk of environmental contamination, disease outbreaks, and contaminated food. The purpose of this research was to characterize and remediate abattoir wastewater (Aww). The physicochemical characterization of the Aww revealed high level of pollution which served as a baseline for monitoring treatment efficacy. The B. licheniformis ZUL012 isolated from textile wastewater was primed with H2O2 and used to remediate Aww waste water in the current study. This study revealed Aww high pollution level which necessitated a need for the Treatment with this bacterium resulted in a significant decrease in some of the waste water parameters tested. The induced cell reduced the parameters to 155 41 mg/L, 75 mg/L, 454 mg/L, 1750 mg/L, and 1000 mg/L, whereas the naive cell reduced them to 375 mg/L, 776 mg/L, and 3122 mg/L, respectively. This equates to an average reduction of 95 percent (COD), 95 percent (BOD5), 77 percent (TOC), and 71% (TDS) compared to raw wastewater. These novel strategies show that H2O2-induced B. licheniformis ZUL012 could be a viable hybrid-bioremediation option for reducing or transforming the pollutants present in Aww, thereby contributing to compliance with wastewater discharge regulations into bodies of water.
Influence of Plant Spacing and Time of Fertilizer Application on the Growth and Grain Yield of Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merril)
Authors: Falodun E. J. , Asanga P.
Published: July 2022

Time of fertilizer application and proper spacing increases yields, nutrient use efficiency, reduces nutrient losses and prevents damage to the environment. The objective of this study was to determine the optimum plant spacing and time of fertilizer application for growth and grain yield of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merril) using a 3 x 5 factorial in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and several parameters measured. Results obtained show that plant height increased significantly with earliness to times of fertilizer application up to 6 WAP and decreased at 8 WAP and this trend was observed to be similar for the number of leaves, branches and leaf size. Total dry matter and grain yield increased at the earliest time of fertilizer application from planting to 4 WAP, a decrease in plant spacing from 20 cm x 50 cm to 10 cm x 50 cm increased the grain yield (18.45% and 28.08%) and total dry matter (15.30% and 23.89%) in both cropping seasons. To maximize grain yield of soya bean, farmers in this locality should adopt narrower spacing of either S1 (10cm x 50cm) or S2 (15cm x 50cm) and early application of fertilizer at T 0 (at planting) to T 2 (4 WAP).
Anthropogenic and Natural Influences on Soil Organic Carbon Fractions: A Case Study on Soils of Meyghan Lake in Arak, Iran
Authors: Safari-Sinegani A. A. , Safari-Sinegani M.
Published: July 2022

Monitoring and assessment of soil organic carbon (SOC) in the soils of arid areas are very important. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the responses of extractable and particulate organic matter in soils around Meyghan Lake in Arak (Iran) to surface water-inflows. Two layers (0-30 cm and 30-60 cm) of soils were sampled in the release sites of municipal wastewater and 3 rivers. Different fractions of SOC were measured and statistically analyzed. The soil sampled from the release sites of municipal wastewater had the highest total organic carbon (14.1 mg TOC g-1 topsoil) and free particulate organic matter (8.07 mg FPOM g-1 topsoil) due to better soil condition for plant growth. In contrast, the soil sampled from the release sites of wastewater of sodium sulfate plant had the lowest the total organic carbon (3.50 mg TOC g-1 topsoil) and all of the fractions. The cold water extractable OC (CWEOC), occluded particulate organic matter (OPOM) and the heavy fraction (HF) as slow fractions responded to soil sampling time better than active fractions. They significantly increased in the soils sampled in fall. The means of CWEOC, hot water extractable OC (HWEOC) and OPOM were higher in the soils sampled from the eastern part of the lake with higher clay and moisture contents and lower elevation. They responded better to the soil properties controlling the biological activity and biodegradation. The best fraction for the study of short-term changes of SOM by anthropogenic and natural effects was FPOM in these non-agricultural lands.
Sufficient informed consent to medical treatment of adults: legal and ethical perspectives from Malawi
Authors: Mfutso Bengo Eva Maria , Muula Adamson , Mfutso Bengo Joseph
Published: July 2022

This special communication discusses the current legal and ethical requirements for informed consent to medical treatment of adults in Malawi. It analyzes the scope of the laws and code of ethics on professional discipline, including criminal privilege for surgeries and clarifies when insufficient disclosures entitle patients to compensation under civil law. Inconsistencies and uncertainties in the law are made apparent.It evaluates to which degree disclosure standards of other Commonwealth jurisdictions (e.g. the case of Montgomery) would be suitable for the health care setting of a country like Malawi that is characterized by shortages of resources, high illiteracy rates and a communitarian cultural context. Doctor-patient communication is not alien to African culture and part of sufficient informed consent. In order to balance the need for efficiency in health care delivery, accountability for quality care, fairness and effective patient-doctor communication the authors suggest to adopt the reasonable patient test only, if a defence of heavy workload on case-to-case basis is introduced at the same time. This does not dispense the need for organisational diligence on part of the institutional health care provider within its capacity.
Trends and patterns of stunted only and stunted-underweight children in Malawi: A confirmation for child nutrition practitioners to continue focusing on stunting
Authors: Clara Chikhungu Lana
Published: July 2022

AimTo analyse the trends and patterns of stunted only and stunted-underweight children in Malawi between the 2000 and 2015. MethodsThe study used the 2000 and 2015 Malawi Demographic and Health Survey data and employed bivariate and multivariate statistical analysis techniques to explore the difference in the levels of stunted only and stunted-underweight children and key socio-economic factors between 2000 and 2015 and identify key attributes of being stunted only and being stunted-underweight. ResultsThe percentage of stunted only was 37.2% in 2000 and 26.8% in 2015 and the stunted-underweight percentage was 14.5% in 2000 and 8.8% in 2015. Out of the 6.9% children classified as wasted, 2.4% were also underweight and stunted, 2.4% were underweight and 2.1% did not have any other forms of undernutrition. The analysis did not identify any children that were both stunted and wasted. Only 0.7% in 2000 and 0.4% in 2015 were underweight and free of any other forms of undernutrition. There were improvements in mother education level and mother weight during this time-period which may explain the improvements in child nutritional status. ConclusionThe most common form of undernutrition is stunting and nearly all children that are underweight are also stunted. Child nutrition practitioners and health professionals should consider focusing on tackling child stunting.
Novice Principals Speak Out: A Qualitative Analysis of the Transition from Teacher to Principal in Barbadian Primary Schools
Authors: Marshall Ian
Published: July 2022

This qualitative study investigated the factors influencing the transition from teacher to principal, the challenges encountered, and the impact of mentorship and prior leadership experiences. A convenience sample of 20 newly appointed principals was interviewed. The factors which influenced smooth transitions included mentorship from former principals, previous leadership experience, and cooperative staff; while difficult transitions were blamed on poor school plant, strained interpersonal relations, and lack of buy-in for the principals’ vision. Mentorship and prior leadership experiences contributed significantly to the type of transition experienced by principals. Institutionalised mentorships and internships for principals as well as preparatory in-service training should be core aspects of principal preparation programs. The results suggested that there was a need for a review of the principal selection processes, to include principal portfolios and opportunities for the onboarding of new principals, along with greater financial autonomy for principals along the lines of Site Based Management.
Arduino UNO Based Wheelchair Control using Bluetooth and Android Mobile
Authors: Mahendra Jagadurti , Maheswari K Uma , Basha Shaik Munawar , Rajanna Puduru , Ravi Kamalapuri , Rangs B
Published: July 2022

The main goal of this project is to design and construct a low-cost wheelchair control system that uses an Android phone. Patients with diverse physical limitations have relied on wheelchairs to assist them with movement and to meet their day-to-day prerequisites. However, in other circumstances, the mobility of a wheelchair is dependent on another person. It includes people who are unable to lift their arms or push the wheels forward, such as paraplegics, quadriplegics, stroke patients, the elderly, and others. Joystick-oriented wheelchairs, which are supposed to be a solution for these people, might cause a variety of issues since they demand fundamental shoulder mobility. For the categories described above of patients, this is not always practicable. Furthermore, because it is wireless and can be worn on either hand, this solution does not have the positioning restrictions that a joystick wheelchair could have, allowing the user to sit in their preferred posture for the least amount of pain. The goal of this initiative is to enable autonomous mobility for people with disabilities. Thus, this research study provides a Bluetooth-based wheelchair prototype that maybe operated by an Android smartphone application. A transmitter and a receiver that can communicate wirelessly makeup the framework. The 433 Mhz RF Transmitter and Receiver Unit was utilized for wireless transmission since it delivers data through an antenna at speeds ranging from 1Kbps to 10Kbps and has a range of up to 100 metres, The wheelchair's receiver unit receives signals from the transmitter unit through an Arduino Uno micro-controller, which causes the wheels to turn in the desired direction. Motor drivers that convert electricity as needed by the wheels makeupmakeup the reception unit. This technology offers an alternative to commercial wheelchairs since it is more effective, less expensive, and simpler to control.
PRAVNI OKVIR REGULISANjA PAMETNIH UGOVORA
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Law, Glušac Danijela
Published: July 2022

In the 21st century, the connection between law and information technology is attracting a lot of attention. With the development of cryptocurrencies, smart contracts came to life, the concept of which was conceived in 1996 by Nick Sabo. He described smart contracts as a set of promises, specified in digital form, including protocols within which the parties perform on these promises. A key aspect of the smart contract debate is the ability of European and national legislators to create rules that would allow the efficient use of new technology. Smart contracts may change the way contracts are drawn up, administered and executed, but it remains doubtful that this type of contract may completely replace classic contracts in the near future. The subject of the research also consists in the answer to the disputable questions regarding smart contracts in order to put a light on significant segments of the regulation of these contracts, as well as to propose their further improvements. In the following text, having in mind the complexity of the topic, and the limited scope of work, a review of the main specifics of smart contracts will be made.
EKSPERTSKE USLUGE STRUČNOG LICA U PARNIČNOM POSTUPKU
Authors:   University of Niš, Faculty of Law, Stanković Gordana , Dukić Mijatović Marijana ,   University of Novi Sad, Faculty of Technical Sciences
Published: July 2022

In this paper the authors analyze the provisions of the Law on Civil Procedure (2011) and opportunities for parties in litigation to hire an expert. The role of the expert is to provide professional services and prepare a private document, which contains finding and conclusions on the crucial facts for passing the sentence. The authors point out this possibility in situation when the court does not have the expertise to establish or to clarify facts or which will be useful for preparing objections to the findings and opinion of a forensic expert or expert when summoned by another party. The service of an expert may also implie taking role in the process with the permission of the court or either a court expert or another expert. The authors analyze the procedural position of an expert in civil proceedings, the differences between an expert and a court expert and certain legal solutions.
NEPATENTIBILNE INTELEKTUALNE TVOREVINE I IZUMI
Authors:   University of Rijeka, Faculty of Law, Jurić Dionis , Erman Sara
Published: July 2022

Subject of the patent protection is an invention, in all fields of technology, provided that it is new, involve an inventive step and is susceptible of industrial application. Main feature of the invention is its technical character. With regard to the monopoly of the patent holder on the exploitation of the patented invention, patent law provides numerous mechanisms for the protection of social interests, manufacturing activities in development, individual manufacturers, scientists, physicians and the public. Basic protective mechanism is setting of exceptions to patentability. These exceptions can be divided into two categories: intellectual creations that are non-patentable because they are either non- technical and/or abstract, and inventions that are non-patentable because their commercial or industrial use would be contrary to public order and morality or because this would be unethical. The Patent Act allows filing of mixed patent claims for inventions that have technical and non-technical characteristics and prescribes exceptions from the list of non-patentable inventions.
VEŠTAČKA INTELIGENCIJA I PATENTNO PRAVO
Authors:   University of Kragujevac, Faculty of Law, Lučić Sonja
Published: July 2022

Artificial intelligence is a field of technology that is developing intensively. Along with the development of artificial intelligence, the issue of its patent protection has become topical. Artificial intelligence systems are based on highly developed algorithms and mathematical models, phenomena with which patent law is traditionally in conflict. This issue is not just a national or European problem. There is also an intensive debate in the United States about the patentability of artificially intelligent systems. The author deals with the question of whether artificially intelligent systems can enjoy patent protection. The paper analyzes the case of "DABUS" which refers to an international patent application in which the artificially intelligent system DABUS is listed as the inventor. Numerous intellectual property offices around the world (eg American, British, German, Australian, EPO) have rejected such a patent application. On the other hand, the Federal Court of Australia has ruled that under the Australian Patent Act AI could be listed as the inventor. Recognition of AI as the inventor (not the owner) of inventions generated by artificial intelligence can have certain consequences, including in the field of copyright.
Study of cultural popular use of gadget students University of Medan
Authors: Rumapea Murni Eva Marlina
Published: July 2022

The gadget is a kind of sophisticated technology communication tool, which has been equipped with various applications and makes it easier to connect to the internet. The gadget is equipped with various applications, games (games), Facebook, WA, messenger, Instagram, video call, wifi, and others. One of the distinguishing gadgets from other electronic devices is "novelty". This means that day by day the gadget still has new models, brands, and shapes. The majority of students use gadgets based on the attractiveness of social media advertisements, applications in gadgets, sophistication, affordability, and environmental and social culture. The use of positive impact gadgets is to facilitate communication and shorten the time for infrastructure. Negative effects lead to negative behaviour. So to overcome this phenomenon parents are active in educating children, paying attention to behaviour, and stakeholders provide insights using gadgets. Based on the results of this study the use of gadgets on Universitas Negeri Medan students at present has become part of the need. The use of gadgets offers students information both academic and non-academic. Even information that does not support academics is on gadgets. This situation results in students wasting time, so learning activities are not the main focus. In other words, the use of gadgets by Universitas Negeri Medan students has become popular culture. In addition, the use of gadgets for parents and stakeholders (educational institutions and religious leaders) provides views on the use of gadgets.
Green Synthesis of Nano Ag/Cu Hybrid Particles for Repelling Water from Cotton Fabric
Authors: Zolriasatein Ali Akbar , Hosseinkhan Mohsen , Karimnejad Shabnam
Published: July 2022

Nano Cu and Ag have a lot of applications in various industries. From different methods of nano particle synthesis, reduction of metallic salts in presence of ascorbic acid as stabilizer can lead to fabrication of nano particle with specific dimensions. In addition, because of using environmentally friendly and nontoxic substances their green synthesis are very noteworthy. In this study, nano Cu/Ag hybrid simultaneously was synthesized through reduction of Ag and Cu salts in presence of natural reducing agent like maltose. The effect of different concentrations of salts together with reducing agent and stabilizer on dimension of nano particles were also investigated. Theses nano particles were applied on cotton fabric and then water repellency and physical properties of nano treated fabric were analyzed. Statistical data showed a significant difference between samples which were synthesized with different salt, stabilizer and reducing agents. Moreover, some spectroscopy tests like FT-IR, XRD, EDX and SEM were conducted to analyze the results.
A Review on Possible Combination of Solar Dryer Materials for Crops in the Philippines
Authors:   Engineering Graduate Program, School of Engineering, Ateneo de Davao University, Davao City, Philippines, Ligreso Oria Charity
Published: July 2022

Direct sun drying, also known as open sun drying, is the most cost-effective and environmentally beneficial technique of agricultural product preservation, but it degrades crop quality. Solar dryers play an essential part in producing high-quality and hygienic products; however, it is cost and maintenance expensive. Also, it has an inadequate drying performance when off sunshine period, night-time, and especially during different seasons. As a result, this study looks at a variety of low-cost options, high-efficiency materials that have been used in previous studies to give further research, an idea on what would be the ideal combination of cost-effective materials that can be used by small-scale farmers in far-flung areas with off-grid. In addition, this study explores several optimization methodologies, procedures, and processes for efficiently storing energy even when solar radiation is low to further optimize and prolong the solar dryers’ performance.
EXPLORATING THE MAIN ACTORS IN THE ACTUALIZATION OF THE VALUE OF SOCIAL JUSTICE DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Authors: Nugraha Yudha Dwi
Published: July 2022

The World Health Organization (WHO) issued a physical distancing policy that inspires people to engage in contactless activities and ultimately causes a decrease in income for most Indonesians, MSME in particular. Government authorities in various countries have also adopted lockdown policies to prevent the spread of covid-19. This research focuses on describing the actualization of the value of social justice during the Covid-19 pandemic, the constraints on the actualization of the value of social justice during the Covid-19 pandemic, and solutions that can be used to accelerate the actualization of the value of social justice during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research used a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data obtained through literature study techniques. The results showed that there were three main actors in the actualization of the value of social justice during the Covid-19 pandemic, namely government, society, and individuals.