bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial contamination of protective lead garments in an operating room setting
Authors: Gilat Ron , Mitchnik Ilan , Beit Ner Eran , Shohat Noam , Tamir Eran , Weil Yoram A , Lazarovitch Tsilia , Agar Gabriel
Published: August 2020

Background:

Protective lead garments (PLG) worn in the operating room are a potential source for bacterial colonisation and thus may increase the risk of intraoperative infection. The clinical significance of such bacterial contamination has yet been established. Although disinfection protocols have been employed, their effectiveness is also unknown.

Objective:

We sought to describe and compare the bacterial profile of PLGs with a focus on common pathogens involved in surgical site infections (SSI) and prosthetic joint infections (PJI).

Methods:

We studied body aprons and neck-thyroid protective shields. We sampled 20 body aprons and 21 neck PLGs, swabbing the inside and outside of the PLGs. Swabs were cultured on different media and the results were assessed and compared.

Results:

Of PLGs, 87.8% were contaminated. The neck-thyroid shield PLGs was generally more contaminated than body apron PLGs and exhibited significantly higher loads of Staphylococcus epidermidis ( P = 0.048). Other pathogen cultured were Micrococcus spp., Acinetobacter lwoffii ( A. lwoffii), Bacillus species ( Bacillus spp.), Moraxella osloensis ( M. osloensis) and Pseudomonas stutzeri ( P. stutzeri). No other common pathogens associated with SSI or PJI were detected.

Conclusions:

PLGs are heavily contaminated despite regular cleaning protocols. Neck PLGs are highly contaminated with potentially infectious agents. As neck PLGs are often directly exposed above the surgical sterile gown and the surgical field, measures should be undertaken to reduce their exposure and bacterial load, perhaps by suggesting users consider avoiding the use of intraoperative fluoroscopy when possible or alternatively supporting the use of body exhaust suits when PLGs are needed.
Predictive Low Glucose Suspend Algorithm in Real Life: A Five-Year Follow-Up Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Tubili Claudio , Pollakova Daniela , Nardone Maria Rosaria , Di Folco Ugo
Published: August 2020

Aim:

Sensor-augmented pumps with predictive low glucose suspend function (PLGS-SAP) help patients avoid hypoglycemia and improve quality of life: in this retrospective study, we investigated long-term effects of PLGS-SAP on metabolic outcomes, acute and chronic diabetic complications, in particular cardiovascular events.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred thirty-nine adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) treated for more than 10 years with continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) were followed for 5 years; 71 (Group 1) started to use PLGS-SAP, and 68 (Group 2) maintained on their non-PLGM insulin pump. Glucose control measures (hemoglobin A1c [HbA1c], acute diabetic complications), clinical outcomes (body mass index [BMI], arterial hypertension, dyslipidemia), chronic diabetes-related complications, and device utilization (continuous glucose monitoring utilization, use of temporary basal rates or special boluses, carbohydrate counting usage) were assessed.

Results:

The reduction of HbA1c was significant in Group 1 (from 7.5% ± 1.1% to 7.0% ± 1.0%, P = .02), while in Group 2 it did not reach statistical significance (from 7.5% ± 1.1% to 7.4% ± 0.9%, P = .853). BMI increased significantly in Group 2 (from 25.3 ± 2.8 to 25.7 ± 3.4, P < .001), but not in Group 1 (from 25.2 ± 3.5 to 25.2 ± 2.8, P = .887). There were no statistically significant differences in occurrence of acute diabetes complications, other clinical outcomes, prevalence of diabetes-related complications, or device utilization between the groups.

Conclusions:

In our five-year follow-up experience with T1D CSII users, PLGS-SAP has resulted efficient in improving metabolic control and maintaining the body weight.
Survival and associated factors of mortality of preterm neonates admitted to Felege Hiwot specialized hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia
Authors: Tamene Ayanaw , Abeje Gedefaw , Addis Zelalem
Published: August 2020

Background:

The complication of prematurity is the second commonest cause of under-five mortality in Ethiopia. Amhara region has the highest neonatal mortality rate in the country. There was no previous study and this study aimed to assess the survival of preterm neonates and its associated factors of preterm neonatal mortality admitted to Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital, Bahir Dar, Ethiopia, to take necessary action to maximize survival of preterm babies in developing countries.

Methods:

A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 686 preterm neonates admitted in Felege Hiwot Specialized Hospital from 1 August 2017 to 30 July 2018. Kaplan–Meier survival curve was used to show the survival rate of preterm neonates and the multivariate Cox proportional hazards model was used to identify covariates of survival of preterm neonates. Those variables having a p-value less than 0.05 were statistically significant for the survival of preterm neonates.

Result:

Out of 686 preterm neonates admitted from 1 August 2017 to 30 July 2018, 49.1% neonates were improved and discharged and 36.1% died. The survival rate was 0%, 19.4%, 46.7% and 75% for gestational age <28 weeks, 28–31 + 6 weeks, 32–33 + 6 weeks and 34–36 + 6 weeks, respectively. In the multivariate Cox regression model, respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, asphyxia, hospital-acquired infection, birth weight, gestational age and place of delivery were significantly associated with time to death of preterm neonates at 95% confidence level (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The mortality rate (36.1%) of preterm neonates is unacceptably high in Felege Hiwot hospital compared to other similar hospitals in Ethiopia. More than 50% of preterm neonatal deaths can be prevented with available resources. Neonatal units with adequate and committed manpower, using a strict aseptic technique, proper follow-up, early detection and timely management of complications, are recommended to improve the survival of preterm neonates.
Surgical pulmonary embolectomy in a multi-trauma patient: One-center experience in the resource-limited setting
Authors: Hong Son Phung Duy , Uoc Nguyen Huu , Lu Pham Huu , Hung Doan Quoc , Vo Hoang-Long
Published: August 2020

Pulmonary embolism, a serious complication after trauma, may cause sudden death. We discuss an unusual case of 65-year-old woman who had traffic accident with liver injury and open fracture of both tibia and fibula on the right side. She was diagnosed with massive pulmonary embolism on the second day after accident and successfully underwent emergency surgical embolectomy from bilateral pulmonary arteries. There were no postoperative complications. The patient’s good state of health was recorded after 13 months of surgery. Surgical pulmonary embolectomy for such a multi-trauma patient provides valuable experience not only for our institution but also for the countries having similar resource-limited conditions.
Telemedicine: An Innovative Twist to Primary Health Care in Rural Bangladesh
Authors: Iqbal Md. Hafiz
Published: August 2020

Background:

Health care service is worsening in the remote villages due to less complete and further away of healthcare facilities and service and makes this service costs compared to those of urban people. Telemedicine service provides a potential solution regarding this particular issue. This study provides empirical evidence of the benefits package consists of hypothetical telemedicine service and evaluates the economic benefit of telemedicine service.

Methods:

The study measures marginal willingness-to-pay (MWTP) responses to policy change on a sample (n = 203) observations. A randomized conjoint experiment has conducted in 7 remote villages of 3 coastal districts of the southwest coastal region of Bangladesh. Each respondent ranks 3 options-two hypothetical alternatives and the telemedicine status quo scheme. The level of attributes-payment for telemedicine service, sample collection from home, medicine delivery to home, capitation through online technology, service delivery frequency, and blood pressure and glucose measure at home-are randomly and jointly assigned to the 2 alternatives.

Results and Conclusions:

Coastal villagers would like to pay more in option 4 and above. The lower payment for telemedicine service does not necessarily imply low demand for telemedicine, as the findings from MWTP illustrate potential demand for telemedicine in coastal villages in Bangladesh.
Long-Term Control of Macular Edema With Adalimumab After Cataract Surgery in a Japanese Child With Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: Case Report and Review of 26 Japanese Patients
Authors: Matsuo Toshihiko , Yashiro Masato
Published: August 2020

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated uveitis is rare in the Japanese population. In this article, we report a child whose macular edema was controlled for years after cataract surgery with adalimumab, and reviewed 26 Japanese patients in the literature. In this case report, a 4-year-old boy developed band keratopathy, posterior iris synechiae, and complicated cataract in both eyes. Oral prednisolone prescribed at another hospital was discontinued due to high intraocular pressure in both eyes as a steroid responder. At the age of 5 years, he started oral methotrexate 8 mg weekly for recurrent bilateral iridocyclitis and then underwent lensectomy with core vitrectomy in both eyes. Planned intraocular lens implantation was cancelled at surgery because the anterior vitreous had severe inflammatory opacity with diffuse retinal edema in both eyes. Due to persistent macular edema in both eyes 5 months postoperatively, at the age of 6 years, he began to use adalimumab injection 20 mg every 2 weeks. The macular structure depicted by optical coherence tomography became normal in 2 months. At final visit at the age of 11 years, he had the best-corrected visual acuity of 0.8 in the right eye and 0.4 in the left eye, with adalimumab 40 mg every 2 weeks and methotrexate 8 mg weekly. In conclusion, macular edema persistent despite oral methotrexate after cataract surgery could be controlled for long term by adalimumab in a child with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. In the Japanese literature, only 26 additional cases with juvenile idiopathic arthritis–associated uveitis have been reported so far.
Facilitating Transfer of Learning in Professional Development Programs: A Cognitive-Behavioral Tool
Authors: Burke-Smalley Lisa A. , Mendenhall Mark E.
Published: August 2020

Cognitive-behavioral theories offer a long-standing theoretical approach in clinical psychology that has wide-ranging implications for management education. We designed a cognitive-behavioral–based learning transfer tool for executives to enhance their application of leadership skills from professional development programs. We summarize the primary research-based principles underlying this transfer tool for leadership development, provide a template, describe how the tool is used, and offer evidence of executives’ reactions to the tool at the beginning and end of a 9-month program.
Assessment of parental nurturing and associated social, economic, and political factors among children in the West Bank of the occupied Palestinian territory (WB/oPt)
Authors: Harsha Nouh , Ziq Luay , Lynch Margaret A. , Giacaman Rita
Published: August 2020

Background

Parental nurturing expressed through love and affection is a broad concept that entails caring for children and their activities, encouraging them and praising their achievements. Lack of love and affection makes children more susceptible to psychological problems such as stress, anxiety and depression across their life time. This study aims to evaluate parental nurturing and associated social, economic, and political factors among Palestinian children living in the West Bank (WB).

Methods

Secondary data representative of the Palestinian children living in the WB was used to estimate parental nurturing for children aged 0–12 years as reported by their mothers. Univariate and bivariate analyses were conducted, followed by multivariate analysis for all predictors found significant in the bivariate analysis using SPSS® version 20.

Results

19.90% (231/1162) of children experienced low levels of parental nurturing. No statistically significant differences were detected by the child’s gender. Children with high levels of parental nurturing were those aged 0–6 years, children who were last in the family index, children with no disability, children exposed to low to medium levels of disciplinary methods, children from urban areas, children living in North WB, and children whose families were not subjected to political violence.

Conclusions

Overall, Palestinian mothers reported high levels of parental nurturing towards their children. However, about one-fifth of Palestinian children are at risk of experiencing low levels of parental nurturing. Efforts should be placed in addressing the health and welfare needs of these high-risk children’s groups.
CRID3, a blocker of apoptosis associated speck like protein containing a card, ameliorates murine spinal cord injury by improving local immune microenvironment
Authors: Chen Yu-Qing , Wang Sai-Nan , Shi Yu-Jiao , Chen Jing , Ding Shu-Qin , Tang Jie , Shen Lin , Wang Rui , Ding Hai , Hu Jian-Guo , Lü He-Zuo
Published: August 2020

Background

After spinal cord injury (SCI), destructive immune cell subsets are dominant in the local microenvironment, which are the important mechanism of injury. Studies have shown that inflammasomes play an important role in the inflammation following SCI, and apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a card (ASC) is the adaptor protein shared by inflammasomes. Therefore, we speculated that inhibiting ASC may improve the local microenvironment of injured spinal cord. Here, CRID3, a blocker of ASC oligomerization, was used to study its effect on the local microenvironment and the possible role in neuroprotection following SCI.

Methods

Murine SCI model was created using an Infinite Horizon impactor at T9 vertebral level with a force of 50 kdynes and CRID3 (50 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally injected following injury. ASC and its downstream molecules in inflammasome signaling pathway were measured by western blot. The immune cell subsets were detected by immunohistofluorescence (IHF) and flow cytometry (FCM). The spinal cord fibrosis area, neuron survival, myelin preservation, and functional recovery were assessed.

Results

Following SCI, CRID3 administration inhibited inflammasome-related ASC and caspase-1, IL-1β, and IL-18 activation, which consequently suppressed M1 microglia, Th1 and Th1Th17 differentiation, and increased M2 microglia and Th2 differentiation. Accordingly, the improved histology and behavior have also been found.

Conclusions

CRID3 may ameliorate murine SCI by inhibiting inflammasome activation, reducing proinflammatory factor production, restoring immune cell subset balance, and improving local immune microenvironment, and early administration may be a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI.
Interrogation of highly structured RNA with multicomponent deoxyribozyme probes at ambient temperatures
Authors: Reed Adam J. , Sapia Ryan J. , Dowis Charles , Solarez Sheila , Gerasimova Yulia V.
Published: August 2020

Molecular analysis of RNA through hybridization with sequence-specific probes is challenging due to the intrinsic ability of RNA molecules to form stable secondary and tertiary structures. To overcome the energy barrier toward the probe–RNA complex formation, the probes are made of artificial nucleotides, which are more expensive than their natural counterparts and may still be inefficient. Here, we propose the use of a multicomponent probe based on an RNA-cleaving deoxyribozyme for the analysis of highly structured RNA targets. Efficient interrogation of two native RNA fromSaccharomyces cerevisiae—a transfer RNA (tRNA) and 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA)—was achieved at ambient temperature. We achieved detection limits of tRNA down to ∼0.3 nM, which is two orders of magnitude lower than that previously reported for molecular beacon probes. Importantly, no probe annealing to the target was required, with the hybridization assay performed at 37°C. Excess of nonspecific targets did not compromise the performance of the probe, and high interrogation efficiency was maintained by the probes even in complex matrices, such as cell lysate. A linear dynamic range of 0.3–150 nM tRNA was demonstrated. The probe can be adapted for differentiation of a single mismatch in the tRNA–probe complex. Therefore, this study opens a venue toward highly selective, sensitive, robust, and inexpensive assays for the interrogation of biological RNA.
Frequency of gastroesophageal reflux disease in adolescent girls with anorexia nervosa
Authors: Weterle- Smolińska Katarzyna , Dziekiewicz Marcin , Liber Anna , Banasiuk Marcin , Wolańczyk Tomasz , Szymańska Urszula , Banaszkiewicz Aleksandra
Published: August 2020

Cel pracy

Celem pracy była ocena częstości występowania choroby refluksowej przełyku (ChR) u dziewcząt z jadłowstrętem psychicznym (JP)

Metoda

Udział w badaniu zaproponowano dziewczętom z JP w wieku 12-18 lat hospitalizowanym w Klinice Psychiatrii Wieku Rozwojowego Warszawskiego Uniwersytetu Medycznego. Kryteriami wyłączenia były: obecność innych niż JP zaburzeń psychicznych oraz leczenie lekami prokinetycznymi i(lub) lekami zobojętniającymi np. inhibitorami pompy protonowej lub antagonistami receptora histaminowego w trakcie ostatnich 2 tygodni. Od pacjentek zebrano wywiad dotyczący objawów ze strony przewodu pokarmowego mogącym odpowiadać ChR. Wykonano pomiary antropometryczne w celu oceny stanu odżywienia. U wszystkich pacjentek wykonano 24-godzinną pH-impedancję. Zapis pH-impedancyjny uznawano za nieprawidłowy, gdy ogólna liczba epizodów przekraczała 70 i/lub wyrażony w procentach ogólny czas ekspozycji błony śluzowej przełyku na kwaśną treść przekraczał 6%.

Wyniki

Do badania włączono 23 pacjentki. Dziewczęta zgłaszały liczne dolegliwości tj. ból w nadbrzuszu, nudności, wymioty, zgagę, ból w klatce piersiowej, nadmierne odbijanie. Jedynie u 2 (8,7%) dziewcząt z JP zdiagnozowano ChR na podstawie 24-godzinnej pH-impedancji. Pacjentki z ChR prezentowały restrykcyjny typ anoreksji.

Wnioski

Częstość ChR u dziewcząt z JP jest relatywnie niska mimo bardzo powszechnego zgłaszania przez nie objawów sugerujących to rozpoznanie. W związku z tym rozpoznanie ChR u pacjentów z JP nie może opierać się tylko na objawach, ale powinno być potwierdzone badaniem obiektywnym, najlepiej pH-impedancją.
Risk factors and predictors of angiostrongylosis in naturally infected dogs in the southeast of England
Authors: Holmes Sarah , Paine Phillip , Wright Ian , Morgan Eric R. , Elsheikha Hany M.
Published: August 2020

Canine pulmonary angiostrongylosis is a snail-borne parasitic infection caused by the nematode Angiostrongylus vasorum. The spread of A. vasorum across the UK in recent years, alongside the launch of new pharmaceutical products licenced for its treatment and prevention, has led to raised awareness of this parasite among veterinarians and the public alike. This raised profile has been beneficial in reducing canine morbidity and mortality associated with infection, especially in parts of the country where it had not previously been routinely diagnosed. It is vital, therefore, given raised public awareness and geographical spread of the parasite, that the veterinary professionals have demographic data to help give accurate risk-based advice. This study retrospectively evaluated demographic factors (age, gender and breed) and clinical presentation of 100 dogs with natural A. vasorum infection by reviewing the clinical record database at private practices, spanning the period from 2003 to 2009, alongside 100 dogs presenting for other reasons as a control sample. A significant relationship was detected between young age and A. vasorum infection (P<0.001), with dogs less than 1 year of age 4.2 times more likely to fall into the infected group. Gender was not identified as a significant risk factor for A. vasorum infection in dogs. Breed was a significant risk factor, with Cocker Spaniels over-represented in the infected group, and Staffordshire Bull Terriers and cross-breeds under-represented. The strongest contrast was between cross-bred and pure-bred dogs as a whole, with the latter 23 times more likely to present with angiostrongylosis. Significant associations were found between A. vasorum infection and dogs presenting with cough, coagulopathy, vomiting/diarrhoea and/or lethargy (P<0.05). The diagnostic value of clinical signs for the presence of disease, expressed by area under the receiver operating characteristic curve, was >0.7, indicating that correct diagnosis (discrimination between dogs with or without the disease) can be achieved in 70% of the clinical cases by accurate history taking. These findings provide important clues regarding the risk of infection to an individual dog, and thus may facilitate improved recognition of infection based on clinical presentation, and implementation of preventative strategies to combat A. vasorum infection.
Rehabilitating the canine shoulder: a practical guide
Authors: Corral Cheryl
Published: August 2020

This is the first in a series of practical guides to rehabilitation of the shoulder, elbow, hip, stifle and spine of the dog. This article looks at the shoulder joint, including a brief overview of the functional anatomy and assessment for common conditions followed by a more in-depth focus, forming a practical guide on rehabilitating the shoulder following injury or surgery, or for the management of long-term conditions affecting the joint.
Small animal Review
Authors: Tennant Bryn
Published: August 2020

Antimicrobial use is influenced by vaccination status, neutering and membership of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons practice standards scheme. Responsible antimicrobial use is promoted through use of preventative medicine and client engagement.
Human babesiosis and tick-borne encephalitis
Authors: Wright Ian
Published: August 2020

The first case of babesiosis has recently been recorded in the UK alongside only the second case of tick-borne encephalitis. Ian Wright reminds people to be tick aware.
ANALYTIC HIERARCHY PROCESS MODEL FOR THE SELECTION OF OPTIMAL INTERNET ACCESS TECHNOLOGIES IN RURAL PAKISTAN
Authors: Ibrar Ibrar , Kim Suk Kyoung , Lee Jongsu , Rho Jae Jeung
Published: August 2020

Information and telecommunication technologies are considered significant for the economic and social development of isolated and remote areas. Internet technologies create links between urban and rural areas that can overcome the barrier of distance that typically hinders development. In rural areas of Pakistan, Internet penetration is low due to high cost, lack of manageable infrastructure, public issues and many other factors that disturb sustainable Internet provision; however, the choice of access to technology in rural areas is a complex process. In this paper, we used the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) method, which is a powerful multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach and is a structured procedure for organizing and analyzing complex decisions. Furthermore, we proposed an AHP model for the selection of an ideal Internet access technology, which would facilitate access to Internet services to the 61% of the population who live in Pakistan’s rural areas. Data were collected from 38 respondents, from both academia and the telecom sector IT professionals. The relative weights of each factor and technology alternative were synthesized with Expert Choice 2000. This paper can provide comprehensive recommendations to telecommunication policymakers for Internet deployment and the selection of optimal Internet access technology in rural Pakistan.
RANKING DIFFERENT ENABLERS/DRIVERS OF SUSTAINABLE SUPPLY CHAIN MANAGEMENT BY USING AHP IN INDIAN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRIES
Authors: Chaudhari Jayant Suresh , Wasu Renu , Sarode Avinash D.
Published: August 2020

In a global economy characterized by environmental, social and economic factors, environmental sustainability is currently one of the main concerns of industry and the economic sector. A large number of periodicals and special volumes related to the sustainable supply chain have been published. This paper intends to identify the drivers for sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) implementation. Twenty-eight enablers were identified and categorized using an extensive literature survey to improve the effectiveness of SSCM implementation. The authors attempted to identify the drivers/enablers and constructed a framework, which analyzed the SSCM using the AHP.
AHP AND WAFGP HYBRID MODEL FOR INFORMATION SYSTEM PROJECT SELECTION
Authors: Bellahcene Mohammed , Benamar Fatima-Zohra , Mekidiche Mohammed
Published: August 2020

The aim of this study is to propose an integrated Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Weighted Additive Fuzzy Goal Programming (WAFGP) method for the selection of information system projects that can use all types of linear membership functions and offer more flexibility. The proposed methodology includes three steps. First, an expert team was formed to identify the decision criteria and build a hierarchical model for the information system project selection. Then, the AHP was used to estimate the relative weights of the criteria. Finally, a WAFGP model was formulated and used to select the projects. A hypothetical example is given to show how to use this methodology and its advantages.  In comparison to other approaches, the AHP-WAFGP hybrid model gives better support for information system project selection by selecting projects that make the best use of available resources and better satisfy the decision goals. Furthermore, the sensitivity analysis reveals that the proposed model is robust, adaptable, and not sensitive to small changes. Nevertheless, the proposed methodology does not include interdependencies among criteria and alternatives.
CONSTRUCTING A MAQASID (OBJECTIVE) BASED PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENT INDEX FOR ISLAMIC BANKS
Authors: Tarique Kazi Md. , Islam Rafikul , Mohamed Mustafa Omar , Razak Dzuljastri Abdul , Hamdan Hamdino bin
Published: August 2020

The current study aims to develop a Maqasid al-Shari’ah (objective of Islamic Law) based a new performance evaluation index for Islamic banks. In order to achieve the objective, the current study conducted twelve semi-structured interviews of academics and practitioners who specialize in Islamic banking and finance (IBF) to select the variables for the index. In order to validate the selected variables, a focus group discussion was arranged that consisted of five experts in IBF. Then, in order to prioritize the selected Maqasid variables, items and sub-items, the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) was employed. The thirty respondents included industry experts, Shari’ah scholars and academics. Lastly, an index was developed and tested on some selected Islamic banks in Malaysia and Bangladesh to rank their Maqasid based performance. The findings revealed that RHB Islamic bank ranked first among the sampled Islamic banks. Overall, Malaysian Islamic banks performed better than Bangladeshi Islamic banks. The novelty of this study lies in its contribution to the theory of Maqasid al-Shari’ah with respect to banking performance evaluation. The index is expected to assist policy makers, practitioners and other stakeholders to determine whether the performance of Islamic banks is in line with Maqasid al-Shari’ah and therefore adopt necessary policy changes accordingly.
Best Practices in Analytic Network Studies: Interview with Enrique Mu and Orrin Cooper
Authors: Saaty Rozann W.
Published: August 2020

Enrique Mu, IJAHP Editor-in-Chief, Orrin Cooper, IJAHP editorial board member and Michael Peasley, AHP/ANP researcher, have recently published the paper “Best Practices in Analytic Network Studies” (Mu, Cooper, & Peasley, 2020). This study provides a set of guidelines to improve the validity of the ANP model and report. Given the importance of this study, I decided to interview the leading authors about this important subject for the benefit of  IJAHP readers. The interview follows:
Virtual ISAHP2020 will take place on December 3-6, 2020
Authors: Mu Enrique
Published: August 2020

It is a pleasure to announce that the International Symposium of the Analytic Hierarchy Process will have its first virtual meeting, ISAHP2020, on December 3 – 6, 2020. The theme for this symposium is “AHP/ANP: The Next Generation” and the focus will be to socialize the new generation of AHP/ANP researchers/practitioners within our community.
Van der Waals contacted MoOx staked ZnO/GaN vertical heterostructured ultraviolet light emitting diodes
Authors: Krishnamurthy Manjunath Nallappagari , Lu Yanghua , Lin Shisheng
Published: August 2020

Since the discovery of two dimensional (2D) materials, there has been a gold rush for van der Waals integrated 2D material heterostructure based optoelectronic devices. Van der Waals integration involves the physical assembly of the components of the device. In the present work, we extended van der Waals integration from 2D materials to three-dimensional (3D) materials, and herein we uniquely designed a van der Waals contacted light emitting diode based on MoOx staked ZnO/GaN heterostructure. The presence of the MoOx layer between n-type ZnO and p-type GaN leads to the confinement of electrons and an increase in the electron charge density at n-type ZnO. The n-type MoOx, a well-known hole injection layer, favors the availability of holes at the ZnO site, leading to the efficient recombination of electrons and holes at the ZnO site, which results in predominant high-intensity UV-EL emission around 380 nm in both forward and reverse bias.
Secondary peak of downstream light field modulation caused by Gaussian mitigation pits on the rear KDP surface
Authors: Yang Hao , Cheng Jian , Liu Zhichao , Liu Qi , Zhao Linjie , Tan Chao , Wang Jian , Chen Mingjun
Published: August 2020

Micro-milling has been proved to be the most effective method to mitigate the growth of laser-induced surface damage on potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystals used in high power laser systems. However, the secondary peak of downstream light field modulation caused by Gaussian mitigation pits on the rear KDP surface would cause potential risk to damage downstream optics. In order to explore the effect of the mitigation pits on the secondary peak, we numerically calculated the downstream light field modulations caused by Gaussian mitigation pits on the rear KDP surface based on the angular spectrum diffraction theory. The results suggest that the secondary peaks are dependent on the parameters of the width, depth, depth error and title error. Among them, the tilt error and depth have greater influence on the mitigation effect. To reduce the laser damage risk caused by the secondary peak, the depth of the pre-designed mitigated contour should be optimized according to the actual operating conditions. The tilt error and depth error are proposed to be controlled within 1′ and 2 μm, respectively, during the micro-milling. Also, the experiments verified the calculation results of downstream modulations and the effects of these parameters on the secondary peak. This work can not only provide available models for evaluating the laser damage risk of secondary peak caused by mitigation pits on the KDP surface but also contribute to the development of optimal micro-milling parameters for laser damage mitigation as well as the installation strategy of optical components employed in the high power laser systems.
Prevalence of bovine tuberculosis in slaughtered cattle and factors associated with risk of disease transmission among cattle handlers at Oko-Oba Abattoir, Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Agbalaya Musiliu Abiodun , Ishola Olayinka Olabisi , Adesokan Hezekiah Kehinde , Fawole Olufunmilayo Ibitola
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim: Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a zoonotic disease of major public health importance, especially in many developing countries, including Nigeria, where control measures are largely not applied, and the risks of human infection are high. This study was aimed at determining the current prevalence of bTB in slaughtered cattle and identifying factors associated with the risk of disease transmission among cattle handlers toward making informed control measures to limit human-animal interface disease transmission.

Materials and Methods: Serum samples at slaughter and lesions suggestive of bTB collected during postmortem examination of 187 slaughtered cattle at the Oko–Oba Abattoir, Agege, Lagos State, Nigeria, were subjected to lateral flow and Ziehl–Neelsen (ZN) techniques, respectively. Furthermore, a structured questionnaire was interviewer-administered to 156 cattle handlers to investigate associated exposure factors to bTB infection. Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

Results: The prevalence of bTB in cattle was 25.7% and 7.0% by lateral flow technique and ZN, respectively. The seropositivity was highest in cattle with poor body condition (50.0%), then with good (36.4%) and fair (25.0%) body conditions. The questionnaire survey revealed that being in livestock handling business for >6 years (p=0.001), not knowing the mode of transmission (p=0.02) and ignoring TB lesions at slaughter (p=0.02) were exposure factors associated with increased risk of bTB infection among the cattle handlers. Further, multivariate analysis showed that those who spent more than 6 years in livestock handling were about 4 times (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR]=3.5; 95% confidence interval [CI]=1.1-7.6, p=0.01) more likely to be exposed to bTB infection than those with lesser years. Again, respondents who called the attention of meat inspectors on seeing lesions in animals were about 4 times less likely to be exposed to bTB infection than those who ignored it (AOR=0.3; CI=0.1-0.8, p=0.01).

Conclusion: This study has reiterated the endemicity of bTB in cattle population in Nigeria, with the prevalence of 25.7% and 7.0% of bTB by lateral flow and ZN techniques, respectively. This portends potential risk for disease transmission at the human-animal interface, particularly at the abattoir setting. The study also identified important knowledge and practice gaps which would enable informed, all-inclusive, and well-directed programs for effective control of the disease in both human and cattle populations.
Hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic activity of combined milk thistle and fenugreek seeds in alloxan-induced diabetic albino rats
Authors: Saadh Mohamed Jamal
Published: August 2020

Background and Aim: Despite the availability of antidiabetic drugs, they are not free from associated adverse side effects. This study aimed to evaluate the hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic effects of oral administration of seeds from two medicinal plants: (1) Milk thistle and (2) fenugreek.

Materials and Methods: Plant seeds were washed in distilled water and ground with a coffee grinder. Alloxan was used to induce diabetes in 20 male albino rats. Diabetic rats were randomly divided into two groups: (1) Group 1 (n=10), diabetic rats fed with 0.5 g/kg milk thistle and 2 g/kg fenugreek seeds per day and (2) Group 2 (n=10), diabetic rats fed standard rodent food for 4 weeks.

Results: Oral administration of milk thistle and fenugreek seeds for 2 weeks resulted in significant improvement in body weight, blood glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in alloxan-induced diabetic rats. After 4 weeks, this ameliorative effect was significantly elevated with respect to blood glucose (155.00±9.70 mg/ dL vs. 427.50±5.70 mg/dL; p<0.001), HbA1c (5.5±0.19% vs. 13.65±1.77%; p<0.001), cholesterol (281.50±10.95 mg/dL vs. 334.30±6.80 mg/dL; p<0.001), triglyceride (239.60±6.87 mg/dL vs. 284.20±9.95 mg/dL; p<0.01), and body weight (265.30±8.10 g vs. 207.40±11.4 g; p<0.01) as compared with non-treated diabetic rats.

Conclusion: Milk thistle and fenugreek seeds possess hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic properties and could be used as natural compounds that are suitable as parent compounds for the development of new antidiabetic drugs.
COVID-19 Vaccine Development: Insights, Prospects and Challenges
Authors: Patel Jainish , Patel Prittesh , Akinmuyiwa Victor
Published: August 2020

This paper explores the trends, issues and challenges confronting the successful vaccine development for the novel Coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Right from the commencement of the COVID-19 pandemic, no drugs or vaccine has been developed nor approved for treating those down with COVID-19. This year, the scientific community and the vaccine industry have been asked to respond urgently to SARS-COVID-2 pandemic. Presently numerous vaccine development platforms are under process and DNA- and RNA-based platforms showing great potential followed by recombinant-subunit vaccines. Through explorative research, it was established that companies involved in COVID-19 vaccine development are facing big challenges in the scientific, economic and logistical perspectives. Amongst these challenges are distrust, misinformation, and about understanding the immune system interaction with the vaccine being developed, as well as with the pathogen itself. Adjudged as insurmountable may be too early a conclusion. The race is on and progresses are being made. Proper understanding of trends, metrics and dynamics revolving around COVID-19 vaccine development is crucial in expanding possibilities for positive results from ongoing vaccine research. In this review, we spotlight on the most recent developments in COVID-19 vaccine, including top 10 early candidates that may hit the market in next few months.
Reducing COVID-19 Risk through Dietary Supplementation of Plant Mannose Binding Lectins
Authors: Lau Kevin K.
Published: August 2020

Increasing consumption of plant lectins (e.g., eating fruits and vegetables) may reduce COVID-19 risks.

Mannose binding lectins (MBL), a key molecule in our innate immune response, contributes to host defense against coronaviruses such as SARS-CoV. This article reviews the role of MBL in the innate immune response against coronavirus infections, highlights evidence of MBL’s significance, and suggests dietary MBL supplementation through increased consumption of fruits and vegetables as an accessible and viable approach to minimizing COVID-19 infection risk.
Study on the insulation characteristics of environmentally friendly CF3I/N2/CO2 mixed gas
Authors: Jiang Renzhuo , He Baina , Zhang Jingru , He Xingmin , Zhou Yuyang , Mao Yazhe , Xie Yadi , Wang Lemiao
Published: August 2020

SF6 gas is a kind of gas medium widely used in the insulation of power equipment. However, due to the greenhouse effect of SF6, new environmentally friendly gas that can instead of SF6 has been the goal for researchers. CF3I gas is one of the most promising alternative gases for SF6. In this paper, two-term Boltzmann equations of CF3I/N2/CO2 ternary gas mixture at 0.1 MPa and 300 K are calculated to obtain an electron energy distribution function (EEDF), an electron drift velocity Ve, a critical fold breakdown field strength (E/N)cr of the ternary mixed gas, and the synergy effect coefficient is used to analyze the synergy effect between the mixed gases. The calculation results show that the CF3I/N2/CO2 ternary mixture has a synergistic effect, and the 50% CF3I/40% N2/10% CO2 ratio scheme makes the mixed gas most likely to replace SF6 from the physicochemical properties. Comparing the calculated data of this paper with the data of other works of literature, the validity of the calculation method and calculation data in this paper is verified, which provides theoretical support for the research of SF6 alternative gas.
Teaching evidence-based nursing practice to student nurses in developing countries: strategies for novice nurse educators
Authors: Wakibi Samson , Ferguson Linda , Berry Lois , Leidl Don , Belton Sara
Published: August 2020

Introduction

Globally, Evidence based nursing practice (EBNP) is becoming an expected norm for nursing practice. The small-scale activities surrounding this practice in African countries indicate a need for better approaches to enhance EBNP. One of these approaches is strengthening nursing education through EBNP education.

Objectives

The purpose of this paper is to provide strategies to African novice nurse educators to teach EBNP, with the ultimate goal of promoting it in clinical settings when the student nurses enter professional practice.

Methods

This is a discussion paper based on the results of a systematic review.

Results

In this paper, the authors create an understanding of EBNP, describe the state of nursing education in Africa, and propose the EBNP content to be taught as well as how to teach it.

Conclusions

Emphasis is on educational strategies that create student engagement, promote critical thinking, unite clinical and classroom settings, and are cost-effective within the context of Africa.
Approximate controllability of nonlinear Hilfer fractional stochastic differential system with Rosenblatt process and Poisson jumps
Authors: Saravanakumar Subramaniam , Balasubramaniam Pagavathigounder
Published: August 2020

This manuscript is concerned with the approximate controllability problem of Hilfer fractional stochastic differential system (HFSDS) with Rosenblatt process and Poisson jumps. We derive the main results in stochastic settings by employing analytic resolvent operators, fractional calculus and fixed point theory. Further, we express the theoretical result with an example.
Comparative crosstalk performance analysis of different configurations of heterogeneous multicore fiber
Authors: Farooque Umar , Ranjan Rakesh
Published: August 2020

In order to select the heterogeneous multicore fiber (MCF) configuration with ultra-low crosstalk and low peak bending radius, comparative crosstalk analysis have been done for the three possible core configurations, namely, Configuration 1 - different refractive index (R.I.) and different radius, Configuration 2 - different R.I., and Configuration 3 - different radius. Using the coupled mode equation and the simplified expressions of mode coupling coefficient (MCC) for different configurations of heterogeneous cores, the crosstalk performance of all the heterogeneous MCF configurations along with the homogeneous MCF have been investigated analytically with respect to core pitch (D) and fiber bending radius (

R
b

${R}_{b}$

). Further, these expressions of MCC have been extended to obtain the simplified expressions of MCC for the estimation of crosstalk levels in respective trench-assisted (TA) heterogeneous MCF configurations. It is observed from the analysis that in Configuration 1, crosstalk level is lowest and the rate of decrease in the crosstalk with respect to the core pitch is highest compared to the other configurations of heterogeneous MCF. The values of crosstalk obtained analytically have been validated by comparing it with the values obtained from finite element method (FEM) based numerical simulation results. Further, we have investigated the impact of a fixed percent change (5%) in the core parameters (radius and/or R.I.) of one of the core of a homogeneous MCF, to realize the different heterogeneous MCF configurations, on the variations in crosstalk levels, difference in the mode effective refractive index of the core 1 and core 2 (

Δ

n

e
f
f

=

n

e

f
f
1

−

n

e

f
f
2

$\Delta {n}_{eff}={n}_{eff1}-{n}_{eff2}$

), and the peak bending radius (

R

p
k

${R}_{pk}$

). For the same percent variations (5%) in the core parameters (radius and/or R.I.) of different configurations of cores (Config. 1-Config. 3), Config. 1 MCF has highest variation in

Δ

n

e
f
f

$\Delta {n}_{eff}$

value compared to other configurations of MCF. Further, this highest variation in

Δ

n

e
f
f

$\Delta {n}_{eff}$

value of Config. 1 MCF results in smallest peak bending radius. The smaller value of peak bending radius allows MCF to bend into smaller radius. Therefore, Configuration 1 is the potential choice for the design of MCF with smaller peak bending radius and ultra-low crosstalk level compared to the other configurations of SI-heterogeneous MCF.
What is known and what remains unresolved regarding gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)
Authors: Vince Katja , Perković Pavo , Matijević Ratko
Published: August 2020

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has become a major public health issue and one of the most discussed topics in contemporary obstetrics. Due to rising prevalence of GDM worldwide impact and importance of this medical condition in good quality antenatal care is growing. GDM is associated with serious adverse perinatal outcomes and unfavorable long-term health consequences for both, mother and her child. Despite a great amount of knowledge accumulated regarding GDM, medical community remains indecisive and still debates the most appropriate diagnostic strategy, screening policy, and treatment options for pregnancies complicated with GDM. These unresolved issues generate controversies, motivate further research and contribute to the growing interest surrounding GDM. In this review we will discuss and try to explain some of them.
Couple stress fluid flow due to slow steady oscillations of a permeable sphere
Authors: Aparna P. , Padmaja P. , Pothanna N. , Ramana Murthy J.V.
Published: August 2020

The study of oscillating flow of a Couple Stress fluid past a permeable sphere is considered. Analytical solution for the flow field in terms of stream function is obtained using modified Bessel functions. The formula for Drag acting on the sphere due external flow is evaluated. Pressure field for the flow region past and inside the sphere is obtained. Effects of physical parameters like couple stress parameter, permeability, frequency and geometric parameters on the drag due to internal and external flows are represented graphically. It is observed that the drag for viscous fluid flow will be less than the case of couple-stress fluid flow and hence couple stress fluids offer resistance for flow.
Adsorptive removal of PAR and Arsenazo-III from radioactive waste solutions by modified sugarcane bagasse as eco-friendly sorbent
Authors: Abdel-Galil Ezzat A. , Eid Marwa A. , Shahr El-Din Ahmed M.
Published: August 2020

In this paper, sugarcane bagasse (SCB) was modified using phosphoric acid. The modified sugarcane bagasse (MSCB) has been used to remove 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR) and Arsenazo-III (Ar-III) from liquid radioactive waste. The surface morphology and functional groups of the MSCB were studied using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). Adsorption ability of MSCB has been tested by batch mode through some relevant factors like initial pH, reaction time, initial coloring reagents (PAR and Ar-III) concentrations, and adsorbent weight. At adsorption equilibrium time 180 min and pH values of 3 and 1 for PAR and Ar-III; the maximum removal (%) for both PAR and Ar-III were 93 and 57%, respectively. The adsorption isotherm data are representative well to Freundlich isotherm model. The mean free energy of adsorption, E (kJ/mol), has been estimated as 5.75 and 2.28 kJ/mol for PAR and Ar-III, respectively, which suggests that the adsorption occurred physically. The maximum adsorption capacity of MSCB for PAR and Ar-III is 96.62 and 15.18 mg/g, respectively. The adsorption kinetics are better fitted by the pseudo-second-order model. The partial film along with intra-particle diffusion controlled the diffusion of coloring reagents from the solution bulk to the particle interior pores. Application of MSCB for removing PAR and Ar-III from simulated liquid radioactive waste containing U(VI) and Th(VI) ions has been achieved successfully.