bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Test de Kleihauer : recommandations du Centre National de Référence en Hémobiologie Périnatale
Authors: Toly-Ndour C. , Huguet-Jacquot S. , Delaby H. , Beaud J. , Mailloux Agnès
Published: February 2025

Le test de Kleihauer permet de détecter et de quantifier une hémorragie fœto-maternelle. Bien que souvent décrié pour son manque de reproductibilité et ses difficultés d’interprétation, cet examen biologique est réalisé par près de 200 laboratoires en France, dans un intérêt fœtal ou maternel dans le cadre de la prophylaxie de l’allo-immunisation Rhésus D. Fort de ses 60 ans d’expérience, le Centre National de Référence en Hémobiologie Périnatale diffuse ses recommandations pour la réalisation technique et l’interprétation clinico- biologique du test de Kleihauer. Par ailleurs, la cytométrie en flux, la vérification de méthode et l’évaluation externe de la qualité sont des aides précieuses à ne pas négliger afin d’améliorer la maîtrise de ce test indispensable à une prestation de conseil de qualité.
Root colonization dynamics of alginate encapsulated rhizobacteria: implications for Arabidopsis thaliana root growth and durum wheat performance
Authors: Balla Amel , Silini Allaoua , Cherif-Silini Hafsa , Mapelli Francesca , Borin Sara
Published: February 2025

Bioencapsulation in alginate capsules offers an interesting opportunity for the efficient delivery of microbial inoculants for agricultural purposes. The present study evaluated the ionic gelation technique to prepare beads loaded with two plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB), Bacillus thuringiensis strain B25 and Pantoea agglomerans strain Pa in 1% alginate supplemented with 5mM proline as an osmoprotectant. Capsule morphology, survival rate, encapsulation efficiency, and viability during 24 months of storage as well as the stability of PGP activities were studied. Our results indicate that more than 99% of bacteria were effectively trapped in the alginate beads, which successfully released live bacteria after 60 days of storage at room temperature. A considerable survival of B. thuringiensis B25 throughout the storage period was detected, while the inoculated concentration of 8.72 × 109 (±0.04 ×109) CFU/mL was reduced to 99.9% for P. agglomerans Pa after 24 months of storage. Notably, a higher survival of individually encapsulated bacteria was observed compared to their co-inoculation. The colonization capacity of model plant Arabidopsis thaliana roots by free and encapsulated bacteria was detected by the triphenyltetrazolium chloride test. Moreover, both strains effectively colonized the rhizosphere, rhizoplane, and endosphere of durum wheat plants and exerted a remarkable improvement in plant growth, estimated as a significant increase in the quantities of total proteins, sugars, and chlorophyll pigments, besides roots and shoots length. This study demonstrated that alginate-encapsulated B. thuringiensis B25 and P. agglomerans Pa could be used as inoculants in agriculture, as their encapsulation ensures robust protection, maintenance of viability and PGP activity, and controlled bacterial biostimulant release into the rhizosphere.
Enseigner la transition écologique à l'université, à partir de la fresque du climat, pour un développement soutenable
Authors: Maleval Véronique
Published: February 2025

Dans son rapport de juin 2023, le Ministère de l'Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche donne l'obligation aux formations post-bac, à partir de 2025 au plus tard, de "former à la transition écologique pour un développement soutenable". Cet article présente la progression thématique de la maquette de géographie environnementale de l'Université de Limoges. Le point de départ est la Fresque du climat qui est approfondie pour montrer l'importance des enjeux de la transition pour les sociétés. Ainsi, de la L1 à la L3, les thématiques enseignées concernent les sociétés face à leur milieu, leur démographie et leur économie ; les sociétés face aux changements climatiques, aux risques et leur vulnérabilité. Cette progression qui permet de préciser les processus, les interactions et les implications de la crise écologique sur les populations, révèle l'urgence de mesures et actions concrètes. Celles-ci passent inévitablement par l'engagement des étudiants et des enseignants par le biais d'ateliers permettant d'imaginer de nouveaux futurs et d'une chaire d'excellence pour mettre en place, à l'échelle locale, une dynamique bas-carbone. Le rôle de l'Université est ainsi crucial pour guider la société vers un nouveau monde.
Des peuples aux royaumes ? Nommer les territoires scandinaves dans les textes occidentaux (viie-xie siècle)
Authors: Malbos Lucie
Published: February 2025

Cet article cherche à comprendre quand, comment et pourquoi on passe, dans les textes évoquant le monde scandinave, de noms de peuples à des noms de territoires. Le processus qui mène en Scandinavie des « chefferies aux royaumes » – pour faire simple – est encore mal connu et fait l’objet de nombreux débats : que peut nous apprendre le lexique en la matière ? Le sujet est délicat, en raison des sources, hétérogènes, lacunaires et tardives, mais aussi parce que tout ce qui touche au lexique, aux questions de langage, soulève de nombreux problèmes loin d’être spécifiques à la période médiévale. En tentant d’éviter une approche trop déterministe et téléologique, l’étude des sociétés danoise et norvégienne, très morcelées jusqu’au xe siècle, permet de montrer que les mots employés véhiculent toujours un point de vue sur le monde, tout en s’interrogeant sur les possibles liens entre l’évolution du lexique dans les sources et un éventuel processus de territorialisation.
Peroxide Conditions Modeling for the Combustion Occurrence
Authors: Tregubov Dmytro , Chyrkina-Kharlamovа Maryna , Hapon Yuliana , Zmaha Yana
Published: February 2025

The oscillations presence of the substance condensed state parameters and the n-alkanes combustion process was analyzed. It is shown that the smallest substance structural unit that describes such features is a dimer, a hexamer for methane, and a trimer for ethane. The cluster "equivalent length" based on the framework number atoms in the continuous chain and without taking into account cluster side parts was used as a modulating parameter. Attention was drawn to the dependences similarity for water solubility and the autoignition temperature of n-alkanes. It is proposed to take into account clustering involving water molecules for the water solubility, and oxygen molecules in the peroxide groups form that form similar clusters for combustion processes. It is accepted that the solubility limit is determined by the condition of all water molecules aggregation by the substance, and in combustible mixtures the substance aggregates all available oxygen in the air. Corresponding peroxide proportions allow the burning limits, detonation limits, stoichiometric concentration and cold flame limit to be described. An approximation formula has been developed that describes the general dependence of the n-alkanes and 2-methylalkanes autoignition temperature based on values of the cluster length and the monomer molecular weight.
Characterization of Natural and Synthetic Dyes for Large-Scale Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Kisdina Rifdha Hendianti , Adi Nugroho Firmansyah , Nisa Shofirul Sholikhatun , Subekti Nanda Yudi Shofi , Kisdina Rista Tristanti , Supriyanto Agus , Widiyandari Hendri , Paramitha Tika , Aliwarga Harry Kasuma Kiwi , Purwanto Agus
Published: February 2025

Photosensitizers have an important role in increasing the ability to capture light. One of the main components of dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) is dye. In general, DSSC fabrication uses synthetic dyes such as N719 and DN-F01. However, synthetic dyes have the potential to have negative impacts on human health and the environment. In this research, DSSC fabrication was carried out using natural dyes and synthetic dyes at large sizes (one cell with an active area of 18 cm2 and two cells with an active area of 15 cm2). The natural dyes used are anthocyanin from red dragon fruit (dragon fruit dyes) and curcumin from turmeric powder (turmeric dyes). Natural and synthetic dyes were characterized using UV-Vis and FTIR spectroscopy. Meanwhile, DSSC performance was characterized by the I-V meter. The best electrical performance for natural dyes was obtained with an active area of 15 cm2 which was sensitized using turmeric dyes with a performance of Eff = 0.020%, Jsc = 0.142 mA.cm-2, Voc = 0.372 V, and FF = 0.461. Furthermore, the best electrical performance for synthetic dyes was obtained with an active area of 15 cm2 which was sensitized using N719 with a performance of Eff = 0.264%, Jsc = 1.303 mA.cm-2, Voc = 0.510 V, and FF = 0.398. Based on these results, natural dyes are less effective than synthetic dyes, but natural dyes are more environmentally friendly and cheap.
Research of Fire Extinguishing Efficiency of Binary Mixtures of Pentafluoroethane (HFC-125) and Heptafluoropropane (HFC-227ea) with Nitrogen
Authors: Likhnyovskyi Ruslan , Tsapko Yuriy , Kovalenko Vitalii , Tsapko Oleksii
Published: February 2025

The problem of using gaseous extinguishants to eliminate fire sources is to inhibit the active radicals of the flame, but at the same time it is necessary to take into account the change in the concentration of oxygen. Therefore, the object of research was the value of the extinguishing concentrations of both individual extinguishants and binary mixtures of halocarbons and inert gases during the elimination of heptanes burning. It has been proven that when nitrogen was supplied, gaseous combustion products were diluted and the relative radiation intensity of hydroxyl radicals decreased to 80 %; on the contrary, when pentafluoroethane (HFC-125) and heptafluoropropane (HFC-227ea) were supplied, the process of chemical inhibition of the combustion reaction took place which led to a significant reduction of the burning rate and, accordingly, the intensity of radiation of hydroxyl radicals by more than 4 times. The joint action of the inert gas and the combustion inhibitor in different ratios did not exceed the intensity of the radiation of hydroxyl radicals of the flame of the inhibitor itself. However, when an inert gas was introduced, the flame was being enriched with fuel and the number of hydroxyl radicals decreased, and the additional introduction of an inhibitor led to a more effective reduction of hydroxyl radicals in the flame. On the basis of the derived results of the experimental studies on the elimination of the fire source of a cup burner with binary mixtures of a halocarbon and an inert gas, it was established that a relatively small dilution of air with nitrogen led to a significant decrease in the extinguishing concentration of the combustion inhibitor. In particular, the extinguishing concentration of heptafluoropropane HFC-227ea for extinguishing n-heptane can be reduced by 2.0 times if, by adding nitrogen, the concentration of oxygen in the air is reduced from 20.5 to 19 % by volume, that is, by only 7 % (relative). The practical value lies in the fact that the derived results of determining the extinguishing concentration of halocarbons, nitrogen and their binary mixtures make it possible to establish the conditions for the elimination of fire sources.
Green Synthesis of TiO2 and its Modification with Activated Carbon from Nutmeg Shell for Photodegradation of Chlorpyrifos Pesticide
Authors: Ramadhani Mutiara , Lubis Surya , Maulana Ilham
Published: February 2025

The green synthesis of TiO2 nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) and their modification with activated carbon (AC) derived from nutmeg (Myristicafragrans) seed shell as photocatalyst for photodegradation of chlorpyrifos pesticide has been successfully conducted. TiO2 NPs were synthesized using orange peel extract that play a pivotal role as bioreductor, stabilizers and capping agent in synthesis of TiO2 NPs with titanium tetraisopropoxide as a precursor. The carbonized nutmeg shell was activated using NaOH solution and the activated carbon/TiO2 (AC/TiO2) nanocomposite was prepared by hydrothermal method. The crystallinity, average crystallite size, and anatase structure of TiO2 are established by X-ray diffraction (XRD), while the morphology and optical property of synthesized materials was analysis by using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV-Vis DRS). The average crystallite size of 7.5 wt%-AC/TiO2 nanocomposite was a little bigger than that of TiO2 NPs. Photodegradation of chlorpyrifos was selected as a model reaction to evaluate the photocatalytic activity of 7.5 wt%-AC/TiO2 nanocomposite. The results showed that 7.5%-AC/TiO2 nanocomposite can degrade the chlorpyrifos solution up to 81% after irradiated under UV light for 6 hours at the initial mass of photocatalyst was 250 mg and initial chlorpyrifos concentration was 6 ppm. The photocatalytic activity of 7.5%-AC/TiO2 nanocomposite was higher than that of bare TiO2 NPs.
The Effect of Dark and Light Pre-Treatment on the Photodegradation Efficiencies of Methylene Blue Using TiO2 Nanoparticle under Mercury Light Irradiation
Authors: Edivtaputri Damacasta Ardeliapta , Khoiriyah Fadilah Hasna , Putri Nova Septi Widyaning , Syams Farah Ramadhani Muhammad , Riyadi Fajar Jelang , Saraswati Teguh Endah
Published: February 2025

The textile industry in Indonesia is currently rapidly growing. However, this increase harms the environment because dyes from textile production are generally released into the environment without prior processing. Photocatalysis is one effort that can be used to overcome this problem. TiO2 has been proven to be highly efficient in its work as a photocatalyst material. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of methylene blue (MB) photodegradation using TiO2 with steady pre-treatment optimizations. The pre-treatment was carried out by leaving the mixture of TiO2 and methylene blue in various conditions under dark and room light conditions, resulting in ⁓37% and ⁓50% degradation efficiencies, respectively. Higher total percent MB degradation efficiencies (%Eff) were reached after visible light irradiation using mercury lamp in the post-treatment of more than 75%, concluding that the pre-treatment both in dark and room light storage optimized the MB degradation process. Therefore, these pre-treatment methods are potentially suitable for industrial wastewater treatment before the photocatalysis process to lower the waste management cost.
Synthesis of Activated Carbon/ZnO Nanocomposite Using Melinjo (Gnetum gnemon) Seed Shells for Enhanced Photocatalytic Degradation of Chlorpyrifos Pesticide
Authors: Lubis Surya , Mustafa Irfan , Sheilatina Sheilatina , Rahmi Wilda
Published: February 2025

Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using ethanol extract of avocado fruit (Persea americana) peel with zinc nitrate hexahydrate as ZnO precursor has been conducted. Phytochemicals contained in the ethanol extract of avocado fruit peels such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, saponins and phenolics acted as reducing agents, stabilizers and capping agents in green synthesis of ZnO NPs. ZnO NPs further were modified with 1 wt% of activated carbon (AC) derived from melinjo seed shell using hydrothermal method and was evaluated on degradation of chlorpyrifos pesticide. The structural, morphological and optical properties of ZnO NPs, activated carbon and 1 wt % of activated carbon/ZnO (1 wt %-AC/ZnO) nanocomposite were characterized by using the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) instrument, Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy-Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (SEM-EDS), Diffuse Reflectance Spectroscopy UV-Vis (DRS UV-Vis) and Brunaeur Emmet Teller (BET). The result showed that the synthesized ZnO NPs were in the zincite crystal phase, while the activated carbon obtained was in amorphous phase. The addition of 1 wt% activated carbon into ZnO NPs caused a decrease in the band gap energy of ZnO NPs. The photocatalytic activity evaluation showed that 1 wt %-AC/ZnO nanocomposite has higher activity than that of bare ZnO NPs. The 1 wt %-AC/ZnO nanocomposite can degrade 90.11% of chlorpyrifos compare with bare ZnO NPs that only degrade 79.30% of chlorpyrifos. The photodegradation evaluation of chlorpyrifos were conducted in the same condition by using 300 mg of 1 wt %-AC/ZnO nanocomposite, the initial pH of chlorpyrifos solution was 7, the initial concentration of chlorpyrifos was 6 mg/L, and the irradiation time under UV light was 4 hours.
Effect of Nickel and Lanthanum Co-Doping on Photocatalytic Activity of Strontium Titanate
Authors: Lestari Ira Dwi , Iriani Yofentina , Suryana Risa , Sandi Dianisa Khoirum , Ardi Emelia Kristin Apriliana
Published: February 2025

Lanthanum (La) and Nickel (Ni)-codoped Strontium Titanate (SrTiO3) with the formula of Sr1-xLaxTi1-yNiyO3 has been synthesized using the coprecipitation method. This research aimed to determine the effect of nickel and lanthanum co-doping on the photocatalytic activity of SrTiO3. Here, the Ni concentration (y) was constant at 4%, while La concentrations (x) were varied at 1% and 2%. The synthesized samples were tested via X-ray diffraction (XRD) instrument to determine the crystal structure. It exhibited that the crystallite size reduced along with increased lanthanum concentration. The photocatalytic activity of Sr1-xLaxTi1-yNiyO3 was observed under UV and Visible light irradiation against methylene blue (MB) pollutant dyes, and the absorption was measured via a UV-Vis spectrophotometer. It revealed that all samples succeeded in degrading MB solution under the two light sources with exposure times of 1, 2, 3, and 4 hours. Further, it was found that photocatalytic activity with UV lamp irradiation resulted in a better degradation percentage than visible light irradiation. The highest degradation about 60% was achieved by Sr0.99La0.01Ti0.96Ni0.04O3 under UV light exposure for 4 hours.
Effect of Natural Diatomaceous Earth Catalyst on the Catalytic Conversion of Polypropylene into Fuel
Authors: Zulrika Mirna , Husin Husni , Meilina Hesti , Ali Masri , Nasution Fahrizal , Ahmadi Ahmadi , Maulinda Leni , Nurhazanah Nurhazanah , Zikrullah Zikrullah
Published: February 2025

Plastic waste is an environmental problem that is widely discussed in the era of globalization. Catalytic reforming can be applied to improve the quality of plastic waste oil. This study aims to improve the properties of liquid fuel from pyrolysis oil using natural diatomaceous earth (NDE) with independent variables, namely catalytic reforming temperature and catalyst mass. The NDE (100 mesh) catalyst was washed with distilled water and then dried in the oven for 24 hours. The characteristics of liquid fuels were investigated using gas chromatography (GC-MS), while the catalyst was analyzed using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) to better understand the particle size and surface topography. The catalytic pyrolysis process is carried out in a fixed-bed reactor at 300-500 °C with a catalyst mass of 4-6%. The surface morphology of NDE appears to have a microporous structure with a honeycomb shape and 5 μm average size. Liquid products consist of hydrocarbons in the gasoline range, based on GC-MS analysis. This process shows that increasing the temperature and catalyst mass results in higher product yields of 52.12% at 300 °C and 4% catalyst mass. NDE could be applied to the conversion of pyrolysis PP into gasoline. According to the findings, NDE will eventually be one of the options for completing the conversion of PP plastic.
Impact of Digital Payment Systems on Credit Access for Business Clans in SME Sector in Sri Lanka
Authors: Premathilaka S. C.
Published: February 2025

The main research question which the document intends to address is “Does the Usage of digital payment systems lead to better financial traceability; will it impact SME business clans credit access in Sri Lanka?” This study examines the transformative impact of Usage of Digital Payment Systems (UDPS) on Small and Medium Enterprises' (SMEs) credit access, mediated by the traceability of financial data (TFD) and Moderated by Government Intervention (GI) in the evolving financial landscape of Sri Lanka. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) as an analytical framework, derived from a comprehensive literature review, the research rigorously tests hypotheses through meticulous examination of measurement and structural models, enhanced by SEM-PLS Bootstrapping for reliable estimation of standard errors and confidence intervals.Findings reveal a significant positive correlation between UPDS and Credit Access to SMEs (CA2SME), establishing Usage of Digital Payment Systems as pivotal in shaping SME credit access in Sri Lanka. Through mediation analysis, the study elucidates the role of Traceability of Financial Data (TFD) in bridging the relationship between UPDS and CA2SME. Empirical evidence suggests UPDS influence on SME credit access is not solely direct but intricately mediated by perceived transactional benefits. The research introduces a mediating hypothesis, emphasizing the paramount role of TFD in shaping the connection between UPDS and Credit Access to SMEs. Evaluation of model criteria robustly supports the proposed mediation model. Additionally, a systematic moderating analysis examines Government Intervention (GI), highlighting it as a significant moderator partially explaining the relationship. Effect size analysis emphasizes the substantial yet relatively smaller effect size of Government Intervention on CA2SME. The study concludes by exploring the impact of Traceability of Financial Data on Credit Access to SMEs, with SmartPLS Bootstrapping output solidifying TFD's significant positive influence on SME credit access in Sri Lanka.
Traditional values in modern practice
Authors: De Andrade V.M.
Published: February 2025

In South Africa’s multicultural and multiethnic population, many people consult with traditional health practitioners in order to receive treatment for a variety of problems. However, the semantics around the term “traditional health practitioner” need to be explored. This is because it is argued that allopathic health practitioners are also often traditional health practitioners, not with regard to the health care that they dispense, but in the way in which they engage with their clients. Traditional values of respect for the person, compassion and empathy are, and should be, routinely included in interactions with clients. This introduces a “traditional” character to “modern” interventions. This paper proposes that traditional healing terminology is not only limited to “traditional health practitioners,” but also extends to “modern health practitioners,” and that traditional medicine should not be supercilious in the way it considers itself to be more humane than allopathic medicine.
National Health Insurance: Implications for medical practice
Authors: Prins-Van den Berg E.
Published: February 2025

No abstract available.
Human immunodeficiency virus: Confidentiality and disclosure of information to third parties
Authors: Knapp van Bogaert D. , Ogunbanjo G.A.
Published: February 2025

No abstract available.
Rabies: 100% Fatal, 100% Preventable
Authors: Office Editorial
Published: February 2025

No abstract available.
The knowledge and beliefs of hypertensive patients attending Katleho District Hospital in Free State province, South Africa, about their illness
Authors: Mpinda Justin , Tumbo John , Govender Indiran , Mills Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Hypertension is a common chronic condition. A sound understanding of people’s beliefs is required in this regard. Usually, poor compliance and decisions by patients to stop taking conventional treatment and to use complementary remedies and traditional remedies arise from poor knowledge of hypertension. The complications of hypertension in non-adherent patients are a concern at Katleho District Hospital. This study sought to explore the knowledge of and beliefs held by patients attending Katleho District Hospital in Virginia on hypertension. Method: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was conducted on hypertensive patients attending the outpatient department of Katleho District Hospital. Ten key informants were purposively selected. The exploratory question asked of participants was: “Could you please explain to me your beliefs on, and what you understand about, high blood pressure?” Themes were identified manually and ideas grouped using the cut and paste method. Results: Five themes were identified, namely correct knowledge about hypertension, incorrect knowledge of hypertension, lack of knowledge regarding hypertension, beliefs about it and misconceptions about it. There were 19 subthemes. Participants demonstrated good knowledge of hypertension, its causes, symptoms and management. However, beliefs and misconceptions influenced their interpretation and response to hypertension. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of understanding patients’ knowledge and beliefs in order to forge relationships that promote optimal care and compliance with treatment.
A study of hurdles in mass treatment of schistosomiasis in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Randjelovic A. , Frønæs S. G. , Munsami M. , Kvalsvig J. D. , Zulu S. G. , Gagai S. , Maphumulo A. , Sandvik L. , Gundersen S. G. , Kjetland Eyrun F. , Taylor M.
Published: February 2025

Background: It has been estimated that 700 million people worldwide and 5.2 million people in South Africa are in need of annual treatment for schistosomiasis. In accordance with the current policy the Department of Health (DoH) in KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa, aimed to reach 75% treatment coverage in a mass treatment campaign (MTC) of schools in a schistosomiasis-endemic area. Methods: A cross-sectional study was designed to explore the implementation, coverage, challenges and limitations of a DoH MTC in a middle-income country. The study was conducted by exploring nurses’ and research team records, school enrolment lists and parental consent forms. Results: Slightly more than 10 000 learners in 43 primary and high schools were treated, achieving treatment coverage of 44.3%. A median of two schools per day were visited over the course of 39 days. We found that older learners, being male and attending a large school were independent significant predictors for low treatment coverage. Conclusion: Our results indicate a much lower coverage than recommended by the South African National Department of Health and World Health Organization (WHO). Coverage would likely increase through improved consent procedures and repeated schools visits. Further information is needed on how to increase compliance in older teenagers, males and learners in large schools. (Full text available online at www.medpharm.tandfonline.com/ojfp) S Afr Fam Pract 2015; DOI: 10.1080/20786190.2014.978121
Practice of bio-medical research amongst doctors in Owo
Authors: Omolase Charles O. , Egberongbe A.A. , Komolafe O.O. , Olasinde A.A. , Adeosun O.A.
Published: February 2025

Aim: This study aimed at appraising the practice of bio-medical research amongst doctors working at Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. Barriers to health research were also identified.Methods: This study was conducted over a period of six months between June and November 2012 among different cadres of medical practitioners working at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria. One hundred respondents selected by simple random sampling technique were interviewed with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire. Informed consent was obtained from each of the respondents. The information obtained included their bio-data, previous research training experience, and publication. Views of respondents on bio-medical research and barriers to health research were also sought. The data obtained with the aid of the questionnaire were collated and analysed with SPSS 15.0.1 statistical software version.Results: A total of 85 out of the 100 medical practitioners that collected the questionnaire returned their filled questionnaire. The age range of the respondents is 25–59 years with a mean age of 36.55 years ± 8.4 years. The median age was 34 years, and the mode was 34 years. There were 71 males and 14 females. Most respondents (61; 71.8%) had training in research while the remaining 24 (28.2%) did not. Most respondents (66; 77.6%) had participated in research and few, 19 (22.4%), had not participated in research. Less than half of the respondents (41; 48.8%) had had previous research published, and more than half (43; 51.2%) had not had research published. Most respondents (79; 92.9%) believed that research helped in promoting medical practice. Lack of research funding was a major barrier to research (75; 88.2%).Conclusion: Most respondents had participated in research. The majority of the study participants had training in bio-medical research prior to this study. There is a need for regular training of doctors in bio-medical research, and adequate funding should be provided for research.
A guide for arterial line insertion for the South African primary care practitioner
Authors: Govender Indiran , Okonta Henry I. , Adeleke Olukayode , Okeke Sunday
Published: February 2025

This article provides information on the reasons for inserting an arterial line, how to insert this line, the equipment required to insert an arterial line, and the possible complications that may arise from this procedure. It is hoped this information will guide primary care practitioners working in the South African environment and increase their confidence for inserting arterial lines.
Risk factors for Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales infections: A case-control study
Authors: Mbele Sibongakonke , Vasaikar Sandeep D.
Published: February 2025

Background: Over years, concerning Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) have advanced globally, posing a major threat to global health. Prior studies highlight previous antibiotic use and prolonged hospital stays as paramount risk factors for CRE infections. However, there are limited reports available with a focus on identifying risk factors for CRE infections by comparing CRE cases with controls. The aim is to evaluate factors associated with CRE infections among individuals admitted to hospitals in Mthatha.Methods: A retrospective case-control study among patients who attended Nelson Mandela Academic Hospital (NMAH) and Mthatha Regional Hospital (MRH), Eastern Cape, South Africa. Demographic, medical history and current hospitalisation factors were captured on clinical research forms. GraphPad Prism version 8 software was used for statistical analysis.Results: Out of the 226 participants with CRE infection, CRE cases were more likely than controls to be adults (51.9%, odds ratio [OR]: 1.34, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.72–2.55) and of male sex (54.9%, OR: 1.48, 95% CI: 0,87–2,45). Significant risk factors for CRE infections included underlying illnesses (OR: 2.55, 95% CI: 1.41–4.60, p = 0.002), urine catheterisation (OR: 5.40, 95% CI: 1.45–18.33, p = 0.01), intravascular devices (OR: 2.48, 95% CI: 1.06–6.03, p = 0.05) and prolonged hospital stay (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.01–3.39, p = 0.048). CRE cases compared to controls were almost twice as likely to demise or have an extended hospital stay of more than one month. Klebsiella pneumoniae (62.6%) and Enterobacter cloacae (60.6%) were prevalent Enterobacterales associated with CRE.Conclusion: Significant risk factors for CRE infections are underlying illnesses, urine catheterisation, intravascular devices and prolonged hospitalisation.Contribution: The complicated nature of CRE infections highlights the importance of targeted interventions to mitigate their spread and impact on public health.
Rationalising blood tests in a resource-limited emergency unit: A quality improvement project
Authors: Esterhuizen Renette , Tribelhorn Lilani I. , Thomas Danielle M.J. , Elliott Eugenne , Habib Talat , Nair Arun
Published: February 2025

Background: In resource-limited emergency settings, blood testing is crucial for diagnostics but can lead to financial strain and diagnostic challenges if used indiscriminately. This quality improvement project (QIP) aimed to identify commonly requested blood tests in an emergency department (ED), assess their appropriateness, and establish evidence-based guidelines for judicious use. This project was conducted during the family medicine rotation of interns at a tertiary hospital in a semi-urban area.Methods: The Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) method was employed. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected. An educational intervention, featuring informative visual aids was implemented to help guide the medical practitioners in the unit on appropriate blood test ordering.Results: The intervention led to a significant 48.7% reduction in total daily blood tests ordered, with a notable decrease in full-panel requests and an increase in individual test ordering.Conclusion: Educational interventions, aimed at guiding blood test requests, can significantly reduce unnecessary testing. Long-term data collection is necessary to confirm sustained changes in practice.Contribution: Our findings indicate that clear, evidence-based guidelines for the judicious use of blood tests can positively impact test ordering, particularly in resource-limited settings, and suggest opportunities for further long-term studies.
The Diagnostic Dilemma of Autoimmune Hepatitis-Primary Biliary Cholangitis Overlap Syndrome
Authors: Salooja Ishita , Srivastava Shilpi , Raizada Alpana , Nath Smita
Published: February 2025

Overlap syndrome (OS) in autoimmune liver diseases (AILDs) refers to overlap in features of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) with autoimmune biliary diseases – more commonly primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), and less commonly primary sclerosing cholangitis. The lack of standardized diagnostic criteria and the need for invasive testing to establish diagnosis through current scoring systems like Paris criteria preclude the early recognition of OS. Current management is based on observational data, thus there is a need for establishing evidence-based guidelines through experimental studies. In this case report, we describe a case of AIH-PBC OS, presenting with chronic abdominal pain, jaundice, and laboratory results indicating both hepatocellular injury and cholestatic pathology. We highlight the diagnostic challenges, in terms of delay in seeking care, reluctance to investigational biopsy by the patient, and lack of evidence-based guidelines on management of these rare but challenging cases. Through a review of the literature, we comment on the burden and epidemiology of the syndrome in the Indian context. We also highlight the recent focus on noninvasive and early-in-the-course diagnosis of AILDs, which could provide a new direction to the management of AIH-PBC OSs.
An 18-year Retrospective Study of the Profile of Stroke Survivors at a Tertiary Hospitals in the South-southern Part of Nigeria
Authors: Kanu Favour Chidera , Akinyemi Deborah , Binuyo Overcomer Temiloluwa , Obiekwe Sochima Johnmark
Published: February 2025

Background:

Stroke is the second leading cause of death and a major cause of disability globally, with an increasing incidence in low- and middle-income countries. In Nigeria, stroke is a leading cause of hospital admissions, yet comprehensive national data on the disease are lacking. This study aims to fill this gap by reviewing the profile of stroke survivors over 18 years in a tertiary hospital in South-Southern Nigeria.

Methods:

A retrospective study design was employed. Data from stroke patient records were collected from the Accident and Emergency, Physiotherapy, and Neurology departments of Federal Medical Centre Asaba, Nigeria. The data, documented manually into Excel using an adopted pro forma included sociodemographic information, stroke types, risk factors, and outcomes. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis, employing IBM SPSS Version 21.

Results:

The study included 317 stroke patients (157 males, 160 females) with a mean age of 63.07 ± 16.19 years. The majority were Christians (91.2%), married (76.3%), and traders/business people (97.1%). Ischemic stroke was the most common type (82.6%), followed by hemorrhagic stroke (13.2%) and transient ischemic attack (4.1%). Most patients presented within 24 h of symptom onset. Hypertension (93.7%), diabetes (77%), and alcohol consumption (62.1%) were the predominant risk factors. The discharge against medical advice (DAMA) rate was 33.8%, and the mortality rate was 32.2%.

Conclusion:

Stroke predominantly affects older adults, with ischemic stroke being the most common type. Hypertension, diabetes, and alcohol consumption are significant risk factors. Prompt hospital presentation is crucial for better outcomes, and the high DAMA rate highlights the need for improved patient education and support systems. Overall, there is a need for increased awareness in this part of the country.
A Decade of Excellence: Accreditation’s Long-term Impact on Quality, Safety, and Performance at King Saud University Medical City
Authors: Baksh Maram M. , Amer Yasser S. , Titi Maher A. , Jamal Diana , Al-Muammar Abdulrahman M. , El-Jardali Fadi
Published: February 2025

Background:

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has undergone a healthcare system transformation to improve healthcare delivery and central to this is accreditation of hospitals. This article assesses the long-term effects of national and international accreditations through measuring staff perception after 10 years of participation in multiple accreditation surveys.

Methods:

This mixed-methods study was conducted at the King Saud University Medical City. The tool was adapted from previous studies. Respondents were asked to evaluate their involvement in accreditation and readiness for another survey. A qualitative interview tool was also used to elicit input from key stakeholders, senior leaders, and managers.

Results:

Six hundred and thirty respondents participated, reporting the perception of their own performance, their role in the accreditation process, the hospitals’ overall performance, and the impact of accreditation on quality and safety. Analysis of variance showed a significantly increasing mean score with increasing involvement of respondents in accreditation with the highest scores for the first accreditation survey. Regression showed increases in selected outcomes with increasing subscale scores for patient satisfaction, management, and leadership. Accreditation supported improved and sustained quality of care despite differences in implementing both international and national accreditation standards.

Conclusion:

The long-term assessment of accreditation revealed that staff perception about performance was highest during the first cycle and consistently decreased with consequent surveys. The slight decrease in scale scores reveals that the benefits of accreditation gradually decrease over time but mostly retain a positive impact.
Nutritional Status among King Saud University Male Students, Riyadh City
Authors: Al-Sufayan Thamer Abdullah
Published: February 2025

Background:

The influence of diet and lifestyle on our well-being and health is profound, with a clear connection to the increasing global rates of obesity and chronic diseases. In 2014, more than 1.9 billion adults aged 18 and above were grappling with excess weight. This study aims to assess the dietary habits of male students at King Saud University (KSU) in Riyadh in 2023.

Methods:

A cross-sectional approach was employed, utilizing a self-administered questionnaire. Obesity was determined by calculating body mass index based on self-reported height and weight from the students’ most recent measurements.

Results:

The results indicate that a significant portion of the students fell within a healthy weight range (47.4%), whereas 24.7% were classified as overweight, 14.1% as obese, and 13.8% as underweight. Notably, 92.5% of the students acknowledged consuming fast food on a daily basis, and 70% reported daily consumption of soda. Furthermore, 35% of the participants incorporated carbohydrates into their daily meals.

Conclusion:

The majority of males were healthy weight, overweight, obese, and underweight, respectively. Most of the students consumed fast food, and soda drinking was also high.
Evaluation and Surgical Management of Varicocele in Infertility Treatment with Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Case Report
Authors: Dakre Sudhanshu , More Aakash , Shrivastava Jarul , Choudhary Namrata , Ulhe Shradha
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

This case study reports a couple presenting with primary infertility, the female partner aged 34 and the male partner aged 37. All investigations for the female revealed normal reproductive function, while the male was diagnosed with severe oligoasthenozoospermia and varicocele. After a microsurgical varicocelectomy failed to improve semen parameters, testicular sperm extraction (TESE) procedures, including testicular sperm aspiration (TESA) and micro-TESE, were employed. Despite limited success in retrieving viable sperm, five mature oocytes from the female partner were fertilized via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using motile spermatozoa treated with theophylline. Two blastocysts were successfully cultured and cryopreserved. A frozen embryo transfer (FET) was performed two months later, leading to the implantation of the embryos. This case highlights the challenges of male factor infertility associated with varicocele, the limited improvement in semen parameters following surgery, and the successful use of advanced ART techniques, including micro-TESE and ICSI, in achieving fertilization and embryo development. This case shows a sequential application of surgical, medical, and ART approaches to overcome severe male infertility when conventional treatments do not achieve the desired results.
Prevalence of GERD Symptoms and its Related Risk Factors Among Medical Students in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alotay Abdulwahed A. , Alhajery Mohammad A. , Alsultan Khaled Mohammed , Alanazi Rand Naif , Noman Abdulrahman Saleh Bin , Alshabanat Faris Bander , Almutairi Renad Razen , Alhamzah Hamzah Ali Hamzah , Qutob Rayan A. , Alanazi Abdulrahman Mohammed , Alshammri Mohammad Rediny , Alsolamy Eysa , Alghamdi Abdullah
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Objective:

This study was carried out to assess the prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms and identify risk factors among medical students in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

This cross-sectional study evaluated medical students in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, targeting those aged 18 and above, and was conducted online from March 2024 to July 2024. An estimated sample size of 210 was computed. A convenience sampling technique was employed, with a self-administered survey distributed electronically through social media platforms to reach the target population. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with Chi-square tests determining associations between variables, considering a P value <0.05 as significant.

Results:

The study included a majority of male participants (63.8%) with most participants aged 21–23 years (58.6%). Key risk factors identified were frequent consumption of spicy meals (43.3%) and fried food (49.0%), with 25.2% of participants being obese Gender analysis showed similar GERD symptom frequencies between males and females, but females reported feeling full before finishing a meal more often than males (P = 0.025).

Conclusion:

The study reveals a notable prevalence of GERD symptoms among medical students, with heartburn and stomach bloating being the most frequently reported.
The Impact of a Nurse-Led Physical Activity Program on Reducing Obesity and Enhancing Quality of Life Among Obese Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chakkaravarthi Baby Ilavarasi , Ethiraj Theranirajan , Rajendran Shankar Shanmugam , Kasinathan Kannan , Chinnadurai Johnson , Chandran Thillainayaki , Posan Rathiswari
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Physical activity programs effectively reduce obesity and raise awareness of its consequences. Engaging in 30 minutes of daily exercise helps prevent chronic illnesses like diabetes, leading to lower body fat and improved quality of life for obese adolescents.

Aim:

This study evaluates the impact of a nurse-led physical activity program on obesity reduction and quality of life enhancement among adolescents.

Methods and Materials:

A quantitative randomized control study was conducted at Choolaimedu Higher Secondary School, Chennai, involving 100 adolescents aged 12–14 years. Data were collected using the Physical Activity Questionnaire (PAQ-A) and Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). Pre and posttest scores were analyzed using paired t-tests and Chi-square tests.

Results:

The sample included 18 females and 32 males. The experimental group showed a 31.20% physical activity gain score and a 25.63% quality of life gain score, compared to 14.26% and 2.03% in the control group, respectively.

Conclusion:

Structured physical activity programs significantly reduce obesity and enhance quality of life, warranting further research on their long-term effects and optimal structures.
The Effects of Focused Nurse-Midwife Interventions on Postnatal Discomfort and Quality of Life Among Postnatal Mothers - A Quasi Experimental Study
Authors: Kannan Baby , Ethiraj Theranirajan , Rajendran Shankar Shanmugam , Vijayalakshmi Valveeman , Durairaj Seethalakshmi , Raja Sabari
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Background:

It has been shown that postnatal discomfort is one of the common issues that postpartum women go through and, in most cases, have a low quality of life, thus impairing their recovery and overall well-being. This research study was aimed at establishing the effectiveness of nurse-midwife-specific interventions aimed at reducing postnatal discomfort and enhancing the quality of life among postpartum women.

Methods:

This quasi-experimental study had a control and an intervention group of postpartum women. Standardized questionnaires to assess pain and quality of life data were collected. Statistical analysis by Chi-square test and t-test to compare scores before and after the intervention in both the groups were performed.

Results:

Intervention outcomes were a significant reduction in pain scores and quality-of-life improvements compared to the control group. Therefore, interventions targeted by the nurse-midwife may improve postpartum recovery.

Conclusion:

Focused interventions by the nurse-midwife improved outcomes related to postnatal recovery. The treatment can be useful for inclusion in postpartum care to enhance the quality of life and maternal well-being.