bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barbashin type characterizations for nonuniform h-dichotomy of evolution families
Authors: Yue Tian
Published: September 2023

The aim of this paper is to give some Barbashin type characterizations for the nonuniform h-dichotomy of reversible evolution families in Banach spaces. Two necessary and sufficient conditions for the nonuniform h-dichotomy are pointed out using some important sets of growth functions. Additionally, as particular cases, we obtain a Barbashin type characterization for nonuniform exponential dichotomy and a necessary and sufficient condition for the nonuniform polynomial dichotomy.
A new distance measure and corresponding TOPSIS method for interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets in multi-attribute decision-making
Authors: Qin Ya , Hashim Siti Rahayu Mohd. , Sulaiman Jumat
Published: September 2023

Strengthening the evaluation of teaching satisfaction plays a crucial role in guiding teachers to improve their teaching quality and competence, as well as in aiding educational institutions in the formulation of effective teaching reforms and plans. The evaluation process for teaching satisfaction is usually regarded as a typical multi-attribute decision-making (MADM) process, which inherently possesses uncertainty and fuzziness due to the subjective nature of human cognition. In order to improve the subtle discrimination of evaluation information data and enhance the accuracy of the evaluation results, we have developed an integrated MADM method by combining a new distance measure and an improved TOPSIS method for interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy sets (IvIFSs). First, a novel distance measure for IvIFSs based on triangular divergence is proposed to capture the differences between two IvIFSs, and some properties of this distance measure are investigated. Then, the superiority of this new distance measure is compared with some existing distance measures. Afterward, an improved TOPSIS method is also established based on the proposed triangular distance under the interval-valued intuitionistic fuzzy setting. Besides, to illustrate the practicality of the new method, a numerical example is presentedto evaluate mathematics teaching satisfaction. Moreover, a comparative analysis that includes existing TOPSIS methods, is presented to demonstrate the superiority of the given method. The comparison outcomes show that the proposed technique can effectively discern uncertainties or subtle differences in IvIFSs, resulting in more accurate and comprehensive evaluation results for teaching satisfaction. Overall, the findings of this study emphasize the importance of incorporating the new distance measure in MADM. The proposed approach serves as a valuable tool for decision-makers to compare and evaluate alternatives effectively.
Boundedness of an intrinsic square function on grand $ p $-adic Herz-Morrey spaces
Authors: Sultan Babar , Sultan Mehvish , Khan Aziz , Abdeljawad Thabet
Published: September 2023

This research paper focuses on establishing a framework for grand Herz-Morrey spaces defined over the $ p $-adic numbers and their associated $ p $-adic intrinsic square function. We will define the ideas of grand $ p $-adic Herz-Morrey spaces with variable exponent $ {M\dot{K} ^{\alpha, u), \theta}_{ s(\cdot)}(\mathbb{Q}^n_p)} $ and $ p $-adic intrinsic square function. Moreover, the corresponding operator norms are estimated. Grand $ p $-adic Herz-Morrey spaces with variable exponent is the generalization of $ p $-adic Herz spaces. Our main goal is to obtain the boundedeness of $ p $-adic intrinsic square function in grand $ p $-adic Herz-Morrey spaces with variable exponent $ {M\dot{K} ^{\alpha, u), \theta}_{ s(\cdot)}(\mathbb{Q}^n_p)} $. The boundedness is proven by exploiting the properties of variable exponents in these function spaces.
Desinformación e islamofobia en tiempos de infodemia. Un análisis sociológico desde España
Authors: Ruiz Andrés Rafael , Sajir Zakaria
Published: September 2023

El presente artículo realiza una exploración sociológica de la desinformación a partir del análisis de bulos de carácter islamófobo en España durante los primeros meses de la irrupción de la COVID-19. Nuestra hipótesis sitúa el foco de la investigación en las dinámicas sociológicas surgidas a partir de la interacción entre las networked connections, el entorno informativo asimétrico y la irrupción de la derecha radical. Tras la explicación de la metodología escogida -de carácter cualitativo- y a la luz de la hipótesis planteada, el artículo identifica y expone tres narrativas principales extraídas del análisis de 17 noticias falsas de carácter islamófobo, que corroboran los resultados de estudios previos y posibilitan el análisis tanto del contenido islamófobo de la muestra escogida de bulos como de las dinámicas sociológicas que explican la génesis y expansión del fenómeno desinformativo a partir del estudio de caso seleccionado.
Empirical Evidence on the Relation Between Progress on Sustainable Development Goals and Adaptation of Islamic Finance
Authors: Emin Dogus , Emin Aysegul Aytac
Published: September 2023

In this study, the authors aim to investigate the dynamic correlation and lead/lag relation between the progress of the countries on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and adaptation of Islamic finance. As the proxy of progress level on SDGs, SDG Index of the Bertelsmann Stiftung and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) are used. To be able to determine the adaptation level of Islamic finance, Islamic Finance Adaptation (IFA) Index is introduced. The data set is formed with top eight countries according to Islamic finance assets and top eight countries according to the SDG Index for the period of 2012 and 2021. To assess the relation between progress level on Sustainable Development Goals (SDG Index) and Islamic finance adaptation level (IFA Index), the Dynamic Conditional Correlation Model (DCC Model) of Engle and Sheppard and Geweke Feedback Measure of Geweke are used.
Characterising a Green Supply Chain Using Multi-Dimensional Construct
Authors: Hiremath Chetan V. , Chavadi Chandan , Nanda Sudhansu Sekhar , Patil Shankargouda C.
Published: September 2023

The study proposed a construct for a green supply chain, which aims to analyze the different elements that contribute to a network being considered “green.” The study found that there are many types of research done on green products, but very few on green corporations and supply chains. Also, there is a lack of consensus in definitions and previous studies have not examined the inter-relations among the variables that contribute to a supply chain being considered green. The review of the literature reveals the range of factors, from the procurement of raw materials to end customer perceptions which make the supply chain green. In a simple random sampling, 125 responses were collected from Karnataka to explore the interrelations between the factors. The analysis evaluates whether the underlying structure of a green supply chain is uni-dimensional or multi-dimensional. Whether the factors have a hierarchical relationship and are factors independent or correlated, the analysis found that there are four correlated factors without any higher order.
A Study On Performance of Breast-feeding by Employed mother
Authors: Byun Soo Ja
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this research was to obtain information about the performance of breast-feeding by employed mother and the supportive accommodation in the work place. The survey questionnaire was answered by 323 employed mothers who had child over the six months and visited the pediatric clinic in the hospital and the public health center in Seoul.The results were as follows : 1. Of the 323 employed mothers, 4.7% of mothers performed breast-feeding, 58.3% of mothers did artificial-feeding and 37% of mothers did mixed-feeding during the six months after birth of baby.2. The characteristics of employed mothers found to be related breast-feeding include Age, Education, Number of Baby, Type of Delivery, Place of Delivery, Obtaining Information On Breast-Feeding.3. The performance of breast-feeding during the work was different significantly according to the mother's job(medical and non-medical) and the method of feeding.4. The reasons why they could not perform the breast-feeding include not enough time because of working(80.4%) and lack of knowledge about breast-feeding method with combining employment.5. The results showed that the rest supports of the work environment was insufficient to perform breast-feeding in he workplace except maternal leave.
An Analysis of the Relationship between Menopausal Symptoms and Depression
Authors: Kwon Sook Hee , Kim Yung Ja , Moon Guil Nam , Kim In Soon , Park Geum Ja , Park Choon Hwa , Bai Jeung Yee , Song Ae Ri , Yoe Jung Hee , Chung Eun Soon , Jung Hyang Mi
Published: September 2023

This study was done for the purpose of analyzing the relationship between menopausal symptoms and depression. Data were collected by a questionnaire from November 28 to December 30, 1995. The subjects were 134 women between 40-61 years of age.The instruments used for this study were The Menopausal symptom scale by Neugartom and Depression scale by Zung. The results of the study were as follows.1. Mean score of menopausal symptoms was 1.59. Mean score orders of experienced symptoms were "Rack pain and joint pain"(2.02), "General weakness"(1.98), "Nervousness"(1.96). The most serious menopausal symptom was psychosomatic symptom.(1.88) Total score orders of experienced symptoms was 27.9 and over 90.3% of women complained menopausal symptom.2. Mean score orders of depression was 39.13. It was normal range of depression. 85.1% of the women were normal range of depression and 14.2% of women mild depression.3. The relationship between menopausal symptoms and depression was statistically significant(r=0.5307, p=0.000). When the relationship among three dimensions of menopausal symptoms were explored the psychosomatic symptom(r=0.4090, P=0.000), Physical symptom(r=0.319, P=0.000), Physical symptom(r=0.319, P=0.000) were statistically significant.4. General characteristic variables were significantly related to the level of menopausal symptoms as follows ; environment of living(F=2.89, p=0.038), religion(F=4.18, P=0.007), times of birth(F=2.66, p=0.043). The analysis of this study have implication for management of middle aged women's health, to solve the nursing problems, and to prevent and relieve climacteric symptoms.
Experience of Mothers who Gave Birth to Congenitally Anomalic Babies
Authors: Choi So-Young , Lee Mila
Published: September 2023

Recently, the birth rate of congenitally anomalic babies is increasing in Korea. But there are few studies and articles in nursing field. So nurses are having difficulties in caring those mothers. This study is to reveal experiences of the mothers with congenitally anomalic babies. Subjects were six and data were gathered by interviews. Data were analyzed by Giorgi's method. Mother's responses were organized into five categories-shock, sadness, expectation, attribution and loss of confidence on future pregnancies. Loss of confidence on future pregnancies were categories which were not found in foreign articles. Based on the result of this study, author recommend that another studies which deal only same anomaly will be done, and genetic counseling system will be organized in hospitals.
The Effect of Dance Movement Program on Psychological Health in Middle Age Women
Authors: Lee Kyu Eun , Choi Euy-Soon
Published: September 2023

This study was designed to confirm the effects of the Dance Movement Program on psychological health in middle-age women with depression tendency. 67 women with mile to moderate depression scoring between 16-25 were selected among 235 responded to CES-D (Radloff, 1977, Cho and Kim, 1993). The 46 volunteered to participate in the study were assigned the control. 7 attritions occurred during the course of the experiment leaving thirty-nine subject : nineteen experimental and twenty control, for the final analysis. Research subjects revealed to be homogenous demographically and by health-related variables. The 50-minute Dance Movement Program was performed by the experimental group 3 times a week for eight weeks, from October 6 to November 29, 1997. Depression, life satisfaction, self efficacy were measured before and after the course of Dance Movement Program. Plasma serotonin was measured to identify its relationship with depression, Homogeneity tests revealed satisfactory level on relevant research variables. Data were analyzed by chi2-test, paired and unpaired t-tests.The results are as follows : 1) The hypothesis that depresson score of experimental group will decreased than control group was supported by t-test(t=2.20, P=.0021) 2) The hypothesis that life satisfaction score of experimental group will increased than control group was supported by t-test(t=1.42, P=.0049).3) The hypothesis that self-efficacy score of experimental group will increased than control group was not supported by t-test(t=6.20, P=.0616).4) The hypothesis that level of plasma serotonin will increased than control group was not supported by t-test(t=1.88, P=.0524) Thus, the effects of the Dance Movement Program for the improvement of psychological health gram for the improvement of psychological health for the middle-aged women with depression tendency are scientifically confirmed by this study.
Mediastinal lymphadenopathies and skin lesions in a 49-year-old Sinhalese man
Authors: Cefalo Jacopo , Salerni Carmine , Ferranti Giulia , Bimbatti Manuela , Moneghini Laura , Carlucci Paolo , Viganò Ottavia , Marchetti Giulia , Gianelli Umberto , Centanni Stefano , Sotgiu Giovanni , Mondoni Michele
Published: September 2023

Leprosy is a neglected disease sporadically reported in high-income countries. Skin lesion and peripheral nerve involvement represent most common manifestations. Mediastinal lymphadenopathy in the absence of superficial lymph nodes involvement is very rare. Atypical or rare clinical presentations of disease may delay diagnosis and therapy and cause potential life-threatening manifestations and disabilities. We describe the case of a 49-year-old Sinhalese man who was admitted to our hospital with a one-month history of peripheral neurological symptoms and skin lesions on lower limbs. CT scan showed the presence of mediastinal lymphadenopathies without lung parenchymal and superficial lymph nodes involvement. Endobronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial needle aspiration showed the presence of granulomas while skin biopsy revealed dermo-hypodermic granulomas with perineural lymphohistiocytic inflammatory reaction. Fite-Faraco staining demonstrated the presence of acid-fast bacilli in both lymph nodal and skin biopsy and polymerase chain reaction was positive for Mycobacterium leprae. Multibacillary leprosy was then diagnosed.
PERFORMANCE OF OVERSIZED PUMPS CONTROLLED BY VARIABLE FREQUENCY DRIVES IN WATER SUPPLY SYSTEMS
Authors: Mendonça Kamilla Henrique , Gomes Heber Pimentel , Villanueva Juan Moises Mauricio , Bezerra Saulo de Tarso Marques
Published: September 2023

Reducing water and energy consumption is an essential condition for reducing the operational costs of water supply systems (WSS). The use of pumping systems driven by variable frequency drives (VFD) is one of the most suitable alternatives to optimize the pressurization of the distribution networks and, consequently, reduce the consumption of electricity and water losses. This article aims to analyze the performance of oversized pumps, driven with variable frequency drives, from WSS. The work was carried out in two experimental setups that have oversized pumps. The methodology consisted of evaluating data collected in experimental tests using hydraulic and electric meters. Tests were realized for different operating conditions of the systems, with the variation of the rotation of the pumps, in order to obtain the pump efficiency curve according to the VFD output frequency. The results demonstrated that the use of variable frequency drives proved to be an alternative to increase the energy efficiency of the evaluated systems. It was observed that the highest efficiencies were recorded in the lowest frequency bands (30 Hz and 35 Hz), while in the values close to the nominal frequency (45 Hz to 60 Hz) there is little variation in the efficiency values.
Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula
Authors: Chakraborty Partha , Roy Sourav , Mandal Kartik Chandra , Halder Pankaj Kumar , Jana Gunadhar , Paul Kallol
Published: September 2023

Background:

A survey of neonates with esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula (EA ± TEF) to determine additional factors responsible for poor surgical outcomes in our institution where employing an improved standard of care can ameliorate the outcome.

Materials and Methods:

We carried out a retrospective review of 54 neonates, who underwent surgical repair of EA± TEF over a 5-year period. We collected data regarding the patients’ demographics, perioperative findings, records of neonatal intensive care, and ascertained the effects of gender, gestational age, birth weight, age at operation, type of anomaly, coexisting major anomalies, preoperative inotrope therapy, and duration of postoperative ventilation on the surgical outcome.

Results:

The mortality rate was 51.9%, out of which, 42.8% of neonates succumbed to ventilator-associated conditions. Age at the time of surgery, gestational age, preoperative inotrope support, presence of coexisting anomalies, and duration of postoperative ventilation were determined as the significant variables predicting mortality(P < 0.05). The area under the Receiver Operating Curve showed the duration of postoperative ventilation as the best indicator of mortality. The Logistic regression model (χ2 = 11.204, P = 0.019) with the above-mentioned variables showed that neonates who were operated before 2.5 days and who required <74.5 hours of postoperative ventilation were 3.91 and 48.30 times more likely to survive respectively, than their counterparts.

Conclusion:

A delay in surgery due to delayed diagnosis and or delayed transportation to tertiary centres and prolonged ventilatory support have an additional detrimental effect on the surgical outcomes of EA ± TEF.
Prevalence and Predictors of Anxiety Among Surgical Patients in the Preoperative Holding Area of National Orthopaedic Hospital, Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Ossai Edmund N. , Nwosu Arinze D.G. , Onwuasoigwe Okechukwu , Ubboe Kenneth , Ameh Johnson , Alu Lawrence
Published: September 2023

Background:

High preoperative anxiety in surgical patients impacts anesthetic management, postoperative pain scores, patient satisfaction, and postoperative morbidity. The Amsterdam Preoperative Anxiety and Information Scale (APAIS) offers an attractive option for the assessment of preoperative anxiety on account of its brevity and validity.

Aim:

Our aim was to determine the prevalence and predictors of preoperative anxiety in our surgical patients.

Materials and Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study among surgical patients by means of interviewer-administered structured questionnaire. The questionnaire incorporated both the APAIS and numeric rating scale for anxiety instruments, with the patients’ demographic and clinical details. The data collection was carried out from January 2021 to October 2022. Data entry and analysis were done using IBM Statistical Product and Service Solutions, statistical software version 25. Continuous variables were summarized using mean and standard deviation, while categorical variables were presented using frequencies and proportions. Chi square test, Student t test, correlation analysis, and multivariate analysis using binary logistic regression were used in the analysis. Statistical significance was determined by a P value of <0.05.

Results:

A total of 451 patients participated in the study, with a mean age of 39.4 ± 14.4 years. The prevalence of clinically significant anxiety was 24.4% (110/451). The predictors of high preoperative anxiety in our cohort were female gender, tertiary education attainment, lack of previous surgical experience, ASA grade 3, and patients scheduled for major surgery.

Conclusion:

A substantial proportion of the surgical patients experienced clinically significant preoperative anxiety.
Hand Hygiene Knowledge Among Eye Care Workers at an Eye Hospital in Nigeria
Authors: Onyiaorah Adaora Amaoge , Uba-Obiano Chizoba Udoka , Akudinobi Cyriacus Ugochukwu , Okpala Nonso Ejikeme , Ezenwa Adanma Chinyele , Nwosu Sebastian N.N.
Published: September 2023

Aim:

The aim of this article is to determine the knowledge of hand hygiene (HH) practices among eye care workers in a tertiary eye hospital in Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

This was a cross-sectional study of eye care workers at a tertiary eye hospital in Nigeria. Eye care workers, involved with clinical duties, responded to the WHO Hand Hygiene Knowledge questionnaire containing 24 multiple choice questions on HH knowledge. Each correct answer earned one point; zero was given for a wrong answer. Overall scores were expressed in percentage. An overall score of ≥75% was considered as good; 50–74% moderate; and <50% poor knowledge. Data analysis was with SPSS version 23.

Results:

Fifty-eight workers participated. Thirty-nine (67.2%) were females and 19 (32.8%) were males; the age range was 25–68 years; mean 39.6 ± 7.4 years. The average work experience was 15.3 ± 8.9 years; range 1–40 years. The mean knowledge score was 12.0 ± 2.9 (50%) which is moderate knowledge; range 3–18. Workers who had received training in HH had a significantly higher mean knowledge score than those who did not receive training (12.8 ± 2.3 vs. 11.3 ± 3.2; P = 0.04). There was no statistically significant association between knowledge of HH and age, sex, work experience, and professional category (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

HH knowledge of the eye care workers studied is sub-optimal. This has negative implication for hospital infection control. Eye care workers’ knowledge of HH can be improved through formal training and frequent rehearsals.
Prognostic Factors in the Management of Empyema Thoracis in Northern Nigeria
Authors: Alioke Ikechukwuka Ifeanyichukwu , Delia Ibrahim Zira , Edaigbini Sunday Adoga , Etiuma Anietimfon Umoh
Published: September 2023

Background:

Empyema thoracis portrays pleural effusion with demonstrable actively multiplying bacteria. It is a significant cause of morbidity, and commonly complicates parapneumonic effusions. It is important to identify those factors that can be used to prognosticate the outcome of its management in our locality so that those that are modifiable could be applied to improve management outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective cohort study of patients managed for empyema thoracis at the Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital (ABUTH), Zaria, Nigeria from February 2017 to January 2018 was conducted. Eighty-three patients were enrolled for this study and recruitment into the study included all consecutive patients being managed for empyema thoracis in ABUTH, Zaria during the study period. Data collected included age, gender, aetiology, microbial isolates, BMI, initial and total empyema volumes, and duration before hospital presentation. The patients were subsequently managed and observed, and the outcome of management (duration of drainage and hospital stay, percentage of lung expansion, and need for decortication) was noted.

Results:

Patients in the paediatric age group correlated positively with an earlier presentation to the hospital. The duration before presentation correlated positively with the stage of the disease. The duration before presentation and the total empyema volume indexed to body surface area could prognosticate all four outcome parameters assessed. The age and stage of the disease prognosticated the lung expansion and the need for decortication. The initial empyema volume indexed to body surface area prognosticated the length of hospital stay. The presence of complications was a determinant of the need for decortication. Adolescents and adults had 2.1 times increased probability of requiring a decortication for successful management.

Conclusion:

The age, stage of the disease, duration before presentation, initial empyema volume indexed to body surface area, and total empyema volume indexed to body surface area can be used to prognosticate the outcome of empyema thoracis. With the onset of complication comes a higher chance of requiring decortication. Children are less likely to require decortication for satisfactory management of empyema thoracis.
Metachronous Contralateral Breast Cancer in Ahmadu Bello University Teaching Hospital, Zaria, Northwestern Nigeria
Authors: Abur Peter Pase , Yusufu Lazarus M. , Odigie Vincent I. , Emeka Nwabuoku Stanley
Published: September 2023

Background:

Breast cancer is the most frequent cancer of women. Metachronous contralateral breast cancer (MCBC) is a cancer in the contralateral breast after 6 months of the initial diagnosis of the first breast cancer. It is an important public health issue because of an increased incidence of a primary breast cancer and improved survival. There is a paucity of data in the Northwestern region of the country. The study was to document the incidence, the method of detection, clinicopathological features, and the treatment of MCBC in our hospital.

Patients and Methods:

It was a 7-year prospective study from January 2011 to December 2017. Patients who had treatment for nonmetastatic breast cancer, American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) Stages 1–111, were followed up. Those that developed MCBC were studied. Age, the method of detection, stage at presentation, pathological types, hormone receptor status, and treatment were documented. Data obtained were analysed using SPSS version 21.0. Results were presented as simple percentages and charts.

Results:

Of 1285 women with nonmetastatic breast cancer, 47 had MCBC (incidence of 3.7%); 30 (63.8%) were aged 21–50 years; 23 (48.9%) detected by self-breast examination; 13 (27.7%) by clinical breast examination; seven (14.9%) by mammography; and four (8.5%) by breast ultrasound scan. Fourteen (29.8%) were AJCC stage I; 23 (48.9%), stage II; seven (14.9%), stage III; and three (6.4%), stage IV. Thirty-nine (83%) were invasive ductal carcinoma; 22 (50.0%) were estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor (ER/PR) positive, human epidermal receptor (HER)-2 neu negative; nine were (20.5%) ER/PR and HER-2 neu positive; six (13.6%) were ER/PR negative, HER-2 neu positive, whereas seven (15.9%) were triple negative. Forty-three (91.5%) had modified radical mastectomy and 19 (40.4%) had cytotoxics.

Conclusion:

With an average of six cases in a year, MCBC is common in our hospital. Majority (63.8%) were young. The commonest method of detection was by self-breast examination. Majority (78.3%) presented at an early stage. Most (91.5%) still had modified radical mastectomy.
Bland–Altman Plot
Authors: Olaleye Omolara Adepate , Olatunji Olubunmi O. , Jimoh Kamaldeen O. , Olaleye Abiola O.
Published: September 2023

Purpose:

The aim of this article is to evaluate the agreement of placenta thickness (PT) with other foetal biometric parameters in the determination of gestational age (GA) in normal singleton foetuses.

Materials and Methods:

The study was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 406 consecutively recruited pregnant women with singleton foetuses at 15–40 weeks of gestation at the National Hospital, Abuja, Nigeria from October to December 2019. Biparietal diameter (BPD), femur length (FL), head circumference (HC), abdominal circumference (AC), and PT were measured using standard measurement protocols. Bland and Altman (BA) plots were used to compare PT and other foetal biometric parameters. The significant statistical level was determined at a critical value of P < 0.05.

Results:

The mean age of study participants was 31.8 ± 4.8 years. The BA plot of PT and HC demonstrated a normal distribution; the mean difference was around zero (3.968) and 95% of the measurements fell within 2SD of the mean. The BA plot of HC and AC measurements also showed that the 95% limits of agreement for differences fell within 10% of the mean of the measurements (-4.236 to 15.987 with a mean difference of 5.876), indicating good agreement between the two pairs of variables. However, BA plots between PT and BPD as well as PT and FL showed no agreement.

Conclusion:

This study indicates that there is good agreement or comparability between PT and HC measurements as well as between PT and AC measurements. Hence, either HC or AC measurements may be interchangeable with PT measurements in the ultrasound determination of GA. However, PT measurements did not agree well with BPD and FL measurements, respectively.
Postpartum Multiple Colon Perforation After Cesarean Section in COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Mirzaie Monireh , Lotfi Sara , Yazdi Zahra , Asgarian Azadeh , Savari Marzieh
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Gastrointestinal symptoms are present in 50% of polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-positive COVID-19 patients. In addition, bowel abnormalities are a common finding of COVID-19, and bowel-wall disorder is reported in 31% of computed tomography images of COVID-19 patients.

Case History:

We report three postpartum cases with colon perforation after Cesarean section and positive PCR for SARS-CoV-2-RNA and during the main peak of COVID-19 pandemic, who were managed by early detection, laparotomy, and effective treatment and were discharged and followed up.

Conclusion:

A colonic perforation could be considered as one of the causes of abdominal pain especially in women with a past surgical history as well as patients with infectious diseases such as COVID-19. Therefore, abdominal and pelvic ultrasound or x-ray was strongly recommended for postpartum women with abnormal abdominal distension, gastrointestinal symptoms, and pain to prevent possible fetal complications.
Preoperative Intravenous Dexamethasone and Postoperative Analgesia Following Breast Surgery
Authors: Degraft-Johnson PapaKobina Gyakye , Djagbletey Robert , Baddoo Henry K. , Aniteye Ernest , Aryee George , Essuman Raymond , Amable Faustina , Darkwa Ebenezer Owusu
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Breast surgery may be associated with significant postoperative pain and if not adequately treated, may lead to the development of chronic post-surgical pain. This necessitates the use of effective management, involving the use a multimodal analgesia regimen for the management of post breast surgery pain. The analgesic effect of perioperative use of dexamethasone has been explored but findings have been inconsistent.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine the postoperative analgesic enhancing effect of a single preoperative dose of dexamethasone on patients undergoing breast surgery at a tertiary hospital in Ghana.

Materials and Methods:

This was a prospective, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 94 consecutively recruited patients. Patients were randomized into two groups: dexamethasone (n = 47) and placebo (n = 47). Patients in the dexamethasone group had 8mg (2 mL of 4 mg/mL) dexamethasone and those in the placebo group had 2 mL of saline administered intravenously just before induction of anaesthesia. All patients received a standard general anaesthesia with endotracheal intubation. The numerical rating score (NRS), time to first analgesic request and the total opioid consumed in the first 24 h were recorded.

Results:

Patients receiving dexamethasone had lower NRS scores at all measured time points but this was significant only at 8 h post-surgery (P = 0.037). The time to first rescue analgesia was significantly prolonged in the dexamethasone group (339.26 ± 312.90 min vs. 182.10 ± 166.72 min; P = 0.020). However, the mean total opioid (pethidine) consumed in the first 24 h postoperatively was not significantly different between the dexamethasone and control groups (113.75 ± 51.35 mg vs. 100.00 ± 60.93 mg; P = 0.358).

Conclusion:

A single preoperative dose of 8mg dexamethasone given intravenously, reduces postoperative pain compared to placebo, significantly reduces the time to first analgesia but not the total opioid consumed in the first 24 h post breast surgery.
Conservative Management of Stable, Minimally Displaced Pertrochanteric Fractures
Authors: Mercouris Matthew , Klopper Schalk , Swanepoel Stefan , Maqungo Sithombo , Laubscher Maritz , Roche Stephan , Kauta Ntambue
Published: September 2023

Background:

Hip fractures are common, and account for significant morbidity and mortality. While surgical intervention remains the gold standard, nonoperative treatment protocols are seldom analysed and may be of value in select settings.

Objectives:

We sought to review our conservatively treated pertrochanteric fractures and present a case series that outlined indications, treatment protocol and early outcomes.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective review of medical records and radiographic imaging of all patients who presented with stable pertrochanteric fractures and were treated nonoperatively, from September 2017 to February 2021, at a Level 2 District Hospital in South Africa.

Results:

Of the 242 patients who were admitted with pertrochanteric fractures, 12 (4.9%) fractures were radiographically classified as AO 31A1.2 (stable, minimally displaced) and eligible for active nonoperative management. Within 6 weeks of injury, 10 (84%) of the patients who received active nonoperative treatment achieved union. Two patients (16%) failed the treatment protocol and required surgery, with one failing during the hospital phase of the treatment protocol and the other on follow up. In the group of united fractures, the neck shaft angle was on average within 3 degrees of the contralateral hip with a range of 0 to 5 degrees. At follow-up, two (16%) patients had a measurable shortening of 5 mm at union. There was no medical morbidity associated with this protocol.

Conclusions:

In our case series, the active nonoperative management protocol, involving early mobilisation and serial radiographs, in select cases of stable pertrochanteric fractures yielded acceptable outcomes. This is of relevance in low-middle income countries with limited surgical capacity.
Abdominal Trauma Imaging in a Nigerian Tertiary Hospital—Our Experience with 87 Adult Patients
Authors: Adenuga Adedire Timilehin , Adeyeye Ademola
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Abdominal trauma is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in low- and medium-income countries (LMICs). Abdominal trauma imaging is important in determining the location and severity of organ injury, the need for surgery, and the identification of complications. The choice of imaging in abdominal trauma in LMICs is influenced by peculiar problems, which include the availability of imaging modality, expertise, and cost. There are few reports on options of trauma imaging in LMICs, and this study aimed to identify and characterise the type of imaging done for patients presenting with abdominal trauma at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital.

Materials and Methods:

This was a retrospective observational study of patients with abdominal trauma who presented at the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital from 2013 to 2019. Records were identified, and data were extracted and analysed.

Results:

A total of 87 patients were included in the study. There were 73 males and 14 females. The abdominal ultrasound was the commonest modality done in 36 (41%) patients, whereas abdominal computed tomography was done in five (6%) patients. Eleven patients (13%) had no imaging done, and 10 of these patients proceeded to having surgery. In patients with intraoperative finding of perforated viscus, the sensitivity of radiography was 85% and specificity was 100%, whereas that of the ultrasound was 86.7% and 50% for sensitivity and specificity, respectively. The ultrasound scan was the commonest imaging done for patients who presented with features of haemorrhage (P = 0.04), odds ratio (OR) = 1.29 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08–1.6), and patients with severe injury, P = 0.03, OR = 2.07 (95% CI = 1.06–4.06). Gender (P = 0.64), shock at presentation (P = 0.19), and mechanism of injury (P = 0.11) did not influence the choice of imaging.

Conclusions:

Abdominal trauma imaging in this setting was majorly via ultrasound and abdominal radiographs. Factors suggested to influence the pattern of abdominal trauma imaging in LMICs include the availability of specific imaging modality, cost, lack of standardisation and definite abdominal trauma protocols.
Single Dose Versus 72-Hour Course of Ceftriazone for Antibiotic Prophylaxis in Preventing Post-Caesarean Wound Infection
Authors: Zubairu Usman Danjuma , Abdul Mohammed A. , Bawa Umma Suleiman , Madugu Nana Hauwa
Published: September 2023

Background:

Single dose antibiotic prophylaxis has been established as the standard for prevention of post-caesarean wound infection in most developed centers across the world. However, this is not the case in most developing countries including Nigeria where various multiple dose regimens are still being used due to paucity of locally generated evidence, and anecdotal suggestions of a higher risk of infectious morbidity in our environment.

Objectives:

This study was aimed to determine whether there was a significant difference in the incidence of post-caesarean section wound infection between a single dose and a 72-hour course of intravenous ceftriazone for antibiotic prophylaxis in selected patients undergoing both elective and emergency caesarean section.

Materials and Methods:

A randomized controlled trial was carried out among 170 consenting parturients scheduled for elective or emergency caesarean section who met a set out selection criteria, between January and June 2016. They were divided randomly into two equal groups, A and B, of 85 each using the Windows WINPEPI software version 11.65 (Copyright J.H. Abrahamson, 22 Aug 2016) for randomization. Group A patients received a single dose of 1 g, whereas Group B patients were given a 72-hour course (1 g daily) of intravenous ceftriazone. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of clinical wound infection. The secondary outcome measures were the incidences of clinical endometritis and febrile morbidity. Data were collected using a structured proforma and analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 21.

Results:

The overall incidence of wound infection was 11.2%; Group A had 11.8%, and Group B had 10.6%. Endometritis was 20.6%; Group A had 20% and Group B had 21.2%. Febrile morbidity was 4.1%; Group A had 3.5% and Group B had 4.7%. There was no statistically significant difference in the incidence of wound infection (relative risk [RR] = 1.113; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.433, 2.927; P = 0.808), endometritis (RR = 0.943; 95% CI = 0.442, 1.953; P = 0.850), and febrile morbidity (RR = 0.745, 95% CI = 0.161, 3.415; P = 0.700) between the two groups. Group A showed similar risk of developing wound infection compared to Group B (P > 0.05).

Conclusion:

There was no significant difference in post-caesarean wound infection and other infectious morbidity between patients that received a single dose, and those that received a 72-hour course of ceftriazone for antibiotic prophylaxis. This suggests that single dose antibiotic prophylaxis with ceftriazone is similar to multiple dose regimens in efficacy with likely cost-effective advantage.
Post-operative Analgesic and Opioid-sparing Effect of a Single-dose Pre-operative Oral Pregabalin in Gynaecological Surgeries
Authors: Adegboye K. Adewale , Kolawole I. K. , Bolaji B. O. , Suleiman Z. A. , Adegboye M. B.
Published: September 2023

Background:

Post-operative pain treatment is a major challenge in our environment. Opioids may cause respiratory depression post-operatively. Therefore, any combination of opioid and non-opioid analgesics that provides quality post-operative pain control and reduces opioid consumption with its attendant side effects will be highly desirable.

Objectives:

The aim of this article is to evaluate analgesic benefits and opioid-sparing effects of pre-operative oral pregabalin in patients who undergo abdominal gynaecological surgeries.

Materials and Methods:

A prospective randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study is carried out at University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital, Kwara State, Nigeria. Eighty-two patients scheduled for gynaecological surgeries were randomized into two equal groups. The patients in the control and study groups received a placebo drug and oral pregabalin 150 mg, respectively, 1 h before induction of general anaesthesia. Post-operative pain intensity using a five-point Verbal Rating Scale, time to first request for analgesia, and 24 h post-operative pethidine consumptions were assessed. Mean values were compared using Student’s t-test. Categorical data were compared with the χ
2 test. Level of significance was set at 5% (0.05) and power of the study was 80%.

Results:

Demographic characteristics were comparable between the two groups. The median pain score was 0–2 (no pain–moderate pain) throughout the study. Post-operative static and dynamic pain scores at 1, 4, and 12 h were significantly higher in the placebo group (<0.001). Twenty-four hours post-operatively, there were no significant differences in static and dynamic pain scores between the two groups (P=0.131 and P=0.384, respectively). Time to first analgesic requirement and total pethidine consumed within 24 h post-operative were 47 ± 19 vs. 258 ± 137 min (P=0.001) and 326.19 ± 62.70 vs. 192.86 ± 55.84 mg (P=0.001) in the control and study groups, respectively. The pre-operative use of pregabalin reduced post-operative opioid requirement by 40.9% in the study group. Nausea and vomiting were more common in the placebo group, whereas dizziness, blurring of vision, and sedation were more common in the pregabalin group.

Conclusion:

A single pre-operative dose of 150 mg oral pregabalin had significantly greater analgesic effects compared with placebo and reduced post-operative opioid requirements in patients undergoing myomectomy or total abdominal hysterectomy. It should be considered an adjuvant in multimodal pain management regimens following gynaecological surgeries.
Evaluation of the efficacy of botulinum toxin pretreatment for the management of radiotherapy-induced salivary gland dysfunction
Authors: Hebish Houssam H. , Megahed Eman M. , Raghib Adel M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Salivary glands intensively deteriorate when exposed to radiotherapy with a resultant reduction in saliva production and developing xerostomia-associated complications. Botox, a commercially available botulinum neurotoxin A performs chemical denervation and degranulation of salivary acinar cells.

Objective

To investigate, histopathologically, whether pretreatment botulinum toxin could potentially protect the gland cells from the deleterious effects of ionizing radiation.

Material and methods

Twenty male Wistar rats were randomly assigned into two equal groups. Submandibular salivary glands were intraglandularly injected by either 2.5 U of botulinum in one group or an equal amount of saline in the other group before being exposed locally to 15 Gy of Cs137 γ-irradiation. Thirty days later, glands were harvested for histopathological assessment and calculation of acinar surface area.

Results

Botulinum-injected glands retained a near normal acinar architecture better than the saline group that showed marked serous atrophy and degeneration. Ductal and mucous cells were more radioresistant. A statistically significant difference existed between both groups in regards to serous acinar surface area P value less than 0.05.

Conclusion

Botulinum neurotoxin protected murine salivary gland acinar cells from ionizing radiation.
Microtensile bond strength of universal adhesive
Authors: AbulAzm AbdelMonem M. , Abdalla Ali I. , Hassan Mostafa M.
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Evaluation of the effect of adhesive mode and CHX application on microtensile bond strength of the universal adhesive to caries-affected dentin.

Material and methods

Twenty human permanent molars with simple occlusal caries were collected. Teeth were randomly divided into two main equal groups according to adhesive mode (Etch and rinse {ER} or Self etch {SE}). Each group was subdivided into two subgroups according to CHX pretreatment with four subgroups obtained; A1: ER, A2: ER+CHX, B1: SE and B2: SE+CHX. Occlusal enamel was trimmed to obtain flat dentin surface composed of CAD surrounded by sound dentin. Universal adhesive was applied according to adhesive mode and CHX application followed by composite resin build-up. Specimens were stored in 5% citric acid for 3 months then subjected to 5000 cycles of thermocycling. Then, all specimens were sectioned into slabs and then bars with cross-section 0.9 ± 0.01 mm2. Bars with CAD were selected for μTBS test until failure. Failure modes analysis was determined using stereomicroscope.

Results

Both adhesive modes with and without CHX application tested on CAD presented similar μTBS (P > 0.05). Subgroup A1 recorded the highest μTBS followed by Subgroup B1 which is statically nonsignificant (P = 0.112). No statistically significant difference was found when comparing the effect of CHX on bond strength for both Subgroups A2 and B2 when compared with control groups (A1 and B1). Predominance of adhesive/mixed failure was noticed for all subgroups.

Conclusion

ER approach could not improve bonding performance of universal adhesives to CAD. CHX did not interfere with bond strength to CAD.
Impact of Diethyl Ether and Methanol Additives on Combustion Performance and Emission Analysis of Mahua Oil Biodiesel Blends
Authors: G Manikandan , Saminathan Sathiskumar , G Bharath , S Narasimmabharathi , S B Praveen
Published: September 2023

There are numerous efforts being made to find an alternate fuel to the ones that are being used in modern technologies. The need for an alternative has arisen as a result of the rising price of petroleum products and the escalating demand for energy. In an experimental study, the effects of adding methanol and diethyl ether to mahua biodiesel on the output and emissions of a direct-injection diesel engine were examined [1]. The objective of this study is to evaluate the performance of a mahua seed oil-based biofuel in a single-cylinder diesel engine. The performance and emissions of the CI engine using Mahua biodiesel are examined in this experimental investigation. The fuels made were virgin diesel (100 percent volume), B5 (95 percent volume, 2.5 percent Mahua oil, 1.25 percent diethyl ether, and 1.25 percent methanol), B10 (90 percent volume, 5% Mahua oil, 3% diethyl ether, and 2% methanol), and B15 (85 percent volume, 10% Mahua oil, 3% diethyl ether, and 2% methanol). Although their characteristics may differ, biodiesel’s common goals are to improve performance, lower emissions, and lower fuel costs. When operating at full load, the B15 Blend’s brake thermal efficiency is almost as high as that of the diesel, and the SFC is 20% lower than it would be with plain diesel. However, B15 blend emissions of HC, NOx, and CO2 are lowered by up to 30%, 10%, and 15%, respectively, but CO emission increased by 22% over clean diesel.