bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BIOVERA-Tree: tree diversity, community composition, forest structure and functional traits along gradients of forest-use intensity and elevation in Veracruz, Mexico
Authors: Monge González María , Weigelt Patrick , Guerrero-Ramírez Nathaly , Craven Dylan , Castillo-Campos Gonzalo , Krömer Thorsten , Kreft Holger
Published: June 2021

Here, we describe BIOVERA-Tree, a database on tree diversity, community composition, forest structure, and functional traits collected in 120 forest plots distributed along an extensive elevational gradient in Veracruz State, Mexico. BIOVERA-Tree includes information on forest structure from three levels of forest-use intensity, namely old-growth, degraded, and secondary forest, replicated across eight elevations from sea-level to near the tree line at 3500 m and on size and location of 4549 tree individuals with a diameter at breast height ≥ 5 cm belonging to 216 species, 154 genera, and 80 families. We also report measurements of eight functional traits, namely wood density for 143 species, maximum height for 216 species and leaf traits including: specific leaf area, lamina density, leaf thickness, chlorophyll content, and leaf area for 148 species and leaf dry matter content for 145 species.

BIOVERA-Tree is a new database comprising data collected in a rigorous sampling design along forest-use intensity and elevational gradients, contributing to our understanding of how interactive effects of forest-use intensity and elevation affect tree diversity, community composition, and functional traits in tropical forests.
Two important karst books written in less spoken languages
Authors: Kranjc Andrej
Published: June 2021

Nowadays we are commonly used that important books, containing new data, new theories, new karst and cave descriptions, etc are published in English. This is why a publication in a less familiar language may be less important from the global point of view but may be much more important; of a key importance even, in the community of its language. Hence we are very glad to highlight the importance of two books, one in the (Brazilian) Portuguese which in fact is not at all less spoken language, and another one in the Croatian language; both authors are former students of the Karstology doctoral programme at the University of Nova Gorica (Slovenia).
Nothing has a sense in speleobiology, without a comparison of cave animals with the 'normal' epigean ones
Authors: Lučić Ivo
Published: June 2021

The series of Interviews continues Slovenian, Yugoslav, and Dinaric speleobiologist Boris Sket. His interest in subterranean fauna started in childhood. Professor Sket is one of the pioneering speleobiologists in Slovenia. As a professor at University of Ljubljana, he has been exploring all aspects of cave fauna since 1950s. He also brought speleobiology to University curriculum. He can be considered as a founder of SubBio Lab, a progressive group of speleobiologists from the University of Ljubljana.
DistoX calibration tools and the need for calibration checking
Authors: Perne Matija
Published: June 2021

For proper cave surveying using DistoX, the device needs to be calibrated with adequate accuracy. Calibrating does not require any tools; but, tools to make calibration easier have been developed. Theoretical consideration shows that the use of certain tools enables one to introduce a type of calibration error that goes undetected by the calibration software. In this study, the existence of such errors is experimentally confirmed and their magnitude is estimated. It is demonstrated to be crucial that the DistoX is calibrated and that the calibration is valid, that is, that the device has not changed since it was last calibrated. No part of the DistoX must have moved or changed its magnetization since calibration, not even the battery. The calibration method used and the quality of the resulting calibration are important too. It is highly recommended that the DistoX be checked immediately before surveying a cave and thus avoid the possibility of using an uncalibrated, not validly calibrated, or poorly calibrated device. To complete the check, a few survey shots are measured multiple times with the device at different roll angles, and the back shot of one of the shots is measured. If the device is properly calibrated, the measurements will agree with each other within the acceptable measurement error. This is not the case for a device that is not properly calibrated.
Physicochemical properties of red palm oil extruded potato and sweet potato snacks
Authors: Liu Y.Y. , Olajide T.M. , Sun M. , Ji M. , Yoong J.H. , Weng X.C.
Published: June 2021

Extruded potato (P) and sweet potato (SP) products with red palm oil (RPO) were prepared under different conditions. Superior product characteristics such as sensory score, expansion ratio, and water solubility index, among others, were obtained at high extrusion temperature (150-155 °C) and low water feed rate to the extruder (50.4-50.8 mL/min). The optimal products, P1 and SP1, had high micronutrients as their total contents of β-carotene, squalene, tocopherols, and tocotrienols were 883.2, 304.4, 262.4, and 397.0 mg/kg of oil, respectively. The average peroxide value was 4.3 meq O2/kg oil, p-anisidine value 3.3, and induction period (100 °C) 11.4 h. Moreover, RPO extruded with P showed a better extrusion behavior but lower micronutrient retention and oxidative stability than that extruded with SP. Thus, the finding herein is important for investigating extrusion conditions, increasing variety, improving nutritional quality, assessing applicability and predicting the shelf-life of RPO-P/SP-extruded food.
Le potentiel d’apprentissage des situations : une perspective pour la conception de formations en situations de travail
Authors: Mayen Patrick , Gagneur Charles-Antoine
Published: June 2021

Cet article a pour but de développer la notion de potentiel d’apprentissage des situations de travail et de mettre en évidence un certain nombre de conditions et processus d’apprentissage comme instruments pour la conception de formations en situations de travail. Sur un plan plus large, il vise à replacer l’apprentissage comme intermédiaire entre travail et formation dans le cadre conceptuel et méthodologique de la didactique professionnelle.
Littératie et activités médiatisantes à l’école primaire : pour reconsidérer les modalités d’enseignement et d’apprentissage
Authors: Dupont Pascal
Published: June 2021

En s’appuyant sur les grandes orientations épistémologiques du concept de littératie et de son approche francophone, il s’agira, dans cet article, d’examiner en quoi ce concept peut contribuer à l’étude des activités médiatisantes et au renouvellement des modalités didactiques d’enseignement et d’apprentissage à l’école primaire. Dans cette perspective nous nous interrogeons sur les différents oraux et écrits réflexifs et sur les principes de leur organisation et de leur utilisation dans un cadre participatif pour focaliser l’attention des élèves sur des objets de savoir. L’objet plus particulier de notre étude est de comparer leur rôle au cycle 1 et au cycle 3 dans des séquences de français pour déterminer s’ils peuvent avoir des rôles similaires, quel que soit le niveau de classe.
La faute à DEWEY. À propos de quelques contresens sur sa philosophie de l’éducation
Authors: Fabre Michel
Published: June 2021

Lors de la crise de l’éducation des années 1960 aux États-Unis, des intellectuels comme Hannah Arendt mettent en cause la pensée éducative de John Dewey. On l’accuse ainsi d’encourager l’autonomisation du monde des enfants, de privilégier la démarche pédagogique aux dépens des contenus, de substituer le savoir-faire à l’apprendre. Ces accusations sont indéfiniment reprises par la critique anti-pédagogique qui sévit en France depuis les années 1980. Cet article tente ici de faire le partage entre la véritable pensée pédagogique de Dewey et les dérives de certains de ses disciples, dérives qu’il a lui-même condamnées, mais qui ont sans doute contribué à l’incompréhension de la philosophie pragmatiste de l’éducation. Il s’agira également de mettre en évidence les ressources critiques de la pensée de Dewey à l’égard d’un certain nombre de présupposés pédagogiques passés et présents qui se réclament pourtant du bon sens.
Sex Trafficking and Forced Sex Work Amongst Girls and Women in Namibia
Authors: Pashkovskiy Igor , LaFont Suzanne , Chaney Ryan
Published: June 2021

The main objective of this chapter is to examine sex trafficking amongst girls and women in Namibia. In 2019 the United States Department of State deemed Namibia a Tier 2 country in terms of its effort to fight trafficking. Thus, while Namibia is not considered a nation where the massive expoitation of girls and women for international sex trafficking occurs, there is research indicating that there is significant intranational sex trafficking. Impoverished rural women and girls, often from ethnic minorities, are coerced or forced to move to border towns, urban areas, and tourist destinations to engage in sex work. This form of trafficking is frequently under-reported, if reported at all. The material presented in this chapter is based on research from recent reports regarding the situation. This information will be augmented with data and excerpts from transcribed interviews conducted in 2013 with 73 self-identified sex workers and ex-sex workers, many of whom were forced to relocate for the purpose of engaging in sex work.
eLearning Environments as Engaging Invitations to Elementary Age Learners
Authors: Neal Allyson Ward , Simons Melissa A. , Moffett Noran L.
Published: June 2021

This discussion shares one working parent's experiences, as a parent aiding her daughter in an eLearning environment. In March 2019, the daughter's elementary school shut down due to COVID-19. Soon after, the schools began using Zoom and Schoology to help maintain a semblance of normalcy and a semblance of attempts towards continuing the learning process within a challenging cultural and sociological situation. What is shared is the parent's journey through which the parent struggled to sustain levels of normalcy in the home and the community. The focus of the discussion revolved around the school week, the school day, and school-based relationships, while also emphasizing the parent's voice through her perspective.
Bandwidth and Online Course Design
Authors: Michael Timothy B. , Williams Melissa A.
Published: June 2021

This chapter is designed to provide resources and answer questions on two levels. In the first part, the authors present a menu of considerations and challenges that they have experienced when shifting an accredited undergraduate program to a parallel online modality over the past several years. In addition, they offer suggestions for working within the BlackBoard learning environment and give a glossary of commonly encountered online instruction terms. They identify some commonalities between online and traditional instruction that can serve to make newcomers more comfortable adding online teaching to their skill set.
Determinant Attributes of Store Choice in Organized Retail
Authors: Singh Dilpreet , Sandhu Namrata
Published: June 2021

Intense competition and price wars in the retail sector provide the impetus to examine consumer behavior in the retail industry. It has become increasingly important to scrutinize what drives consumer choice of retail stores. This chapter addresses this need and aims to establish the factors that drive consumer retail choice behavior. The empirical setting for the study was five organized Indian retail stores: Easy Day, Big Bazaar, More, Reliance Fresh, and Freshmart. Data were collected with the help of a questionnaire (n=700) in a store-intercept survey. Data were analyzed using multivariate data analysis techniques. A model identifying the variables that predicts retail store choice probabilities was developed and tested. Results establish that atmospherics, merchandise assortment, and customer satisfaction have a significant positive impact on retail store choice. On the other hand, price has a significant negative impact on retail store choice. Implications are discussed.
An Empirical Study on Pharmaceutical and Personal Care Stocks Using Sharpe's Single-Index Model
Authors: Bansal Divya , Rao Srilakshmi , T. Karpagam
Published: June 2021

As the various avenues for better returns in India are slowly dwindling due to various global scenarios as well as due to domestic government policies, more and more people are turning towards stock market for better returns. This poses a challenge to the fund managers when they have to construct a portfolio, which maximizes return and minimizes risk. This has become more and more challenging in the recent years as the investors are also becoming more knowledgeable. Timely and correct investment decision on the part of the investor requires an in-depth knowledge of the stock that he intends to procure and the theories behind portfolio management. This chapter mainly focuses on construction of an optimal portfolio comprising of top pharmaceutical companies and FMCG companies in India. Sharpe ratio return analysis is the tool that is used to construct the optimal portfolio. Monthly returns data of last 10 years of the said companies are regressed against monthly return data of Nifty for better comparison.
FOREX Risk Administration in Sinaloa's Micro-Industries
Authors: Sánchez Jéssica Frías , Domínguez Deyanira Bernal , Vargas-Hernández José G.
Published: June 2021

The present work is related to the administration of the exchange risks in an industrial microenterprise of Sinaloa. Its objective is to contrast the effect obtained on the decision-making process by managing the exchange risks inherent in the businesses that buy imported raw materials in order to be able to produce their goods that they commercialize. For this reason, it is based on a literature review contained in scientific articles, books, and theses where evidence was found that it is possible to reduce risk through the use of derivative instruments such as European futures and options contracts. The methodology is qualitative with the case study. The results indicate that it is possible to manage the exchange risk using derivative products in the microenterprise studied.
Prioritization of Bank Selection Decision in Pandemic Process Using a Novel Decision-Making Model
Authors: Çalık Ahmet , Afşar Bilge
Published: June 2021

In Turkey, since March 2020, the pandemic process caused changes in the bank selection of consumers as it affected all other activities. Prioritization of bank selection criteria is a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) problem with conflicting criteria. In this study, the Pythagorean fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (PFAHP) is used to prioritize the selection criteria, it is aimed to provide more freedom for decision-makers in expressing their opinions. Not only quantitative criteria such as interest rate, ATM, and number of branches, but also the environmental and social impacts of the pandemic, the nine main criteria have been determined. As a result of interviews with different sectors, it was found that the loan interest rate is the most important criterion. The results were compared with different classical and fuzzy AHP methods, and it was found that the PFAHP method produced reliable and informative results that better represented the uncertainty of the decision-making process.
Strategies for Critical Sector Development Post-Pandemic
Authors: Chauhan Mukesh
Published: June 2021

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) emerged in the world in the month of Dec. 2019 in China and rapidly spread all over the world. The major issue with the disease is that it spread just by coming into contact with the infected person or infected object, and therefore, it is very difficult to operate day-to-day operations, jobs, and various economic activities in a country. The most damaging impact of this pandemic is that it has disturbed various economic activities all over the world. Many people lost their jobs, many businesses shut down, and many services stopped. Now the point is how to operate these various activities in more strategic ways so that negative impacts of the same can be minimized. Every economic activity has its own parameters and system of operations, and therefore, every activity has to be dealt with in a unique way. This chapter discusses post-pandemic strategies for critical sectoral development to resume their development. The required data for the present study was collected from both primary and secondary sources.
Effective Strategies for Managing Communication in a Project
Authors: Albuali Murtadha
Published: June 2021

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of using strategic approaches for managing communication in project, especially when the communication is required between top-level managers and lower-level employees. The gap of communication could be resolved by implementing strategic approaches of communication management that are thorough to include all personnel in the organization. To overcome any commination problem, the author uses the most effective strategies for managing communication in a project. The author believes that the most effective strategies are four, which are PMI communication strategy, six main steps of communication strategy, understanding the direction of communication strategy, and choosing the right communication channel strategy.
ROP Defense Using Trie Graph for System Security
Authors: Zhu Alex Yao Chu , Yan Wei Qi , Sinha Roopak
Published: June 2021

Most Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) / Intrusion Prevention Systems (IPS) cannot defend the attacks from a Return Oriented Program (ROP) which applies code reusing and exploiting techniques without the need for code injection. Malicious attackers chain a short sequence as a gadget and execute this gadget as an arbitrary (Turing-complete) behavior in the target program. Lots of ROP defense tools have been developed with satisfactory performance and low costs overhead, but malicious attackers can evade ROP tools. Therefore, it needs security researchers to continually improve existing ROP defense tools, because the defense ability of target devices, such as smartphones is weak, and such devices are being increasingly targeted.  Our contribution in this paper is to propose an ROP defense method that has provided a better performance of defense against ROP attacks than existing ROP defense tools.
Influence of Chemical Reaction and Arrhenius Activation Energy on Hydromagnetic Non-Darcian Casson Nanofluid Flow with Second-Order Slip Condition
Authors: Titiloye Emmanuel Olurotimi , Adeosun Adeshina Taofeeq , Gbadeyan Jacob Abiodun
Published: June 2021

This article investigates the combined effect of second-order velocity slip, Arrhenius activation energy and binary chemical reaction on reactive Casson nanofluid flow in a non-Darcian porous medium. The governing equations of the problem were first non-dimensionalized and later reduced to ordinary nonlinear differential equations by adopting a similarity transformation. The emerging nonlinear boundary value problem was solved by using Galerkin weighted residual method (GWRM). The obtained results were compared with those found in the literature to validate our method. The impact of pertinent parameters on the velocity component, temperature distribution and concentration profile are presented using graphs and were discussed. The computational results show that an increase in second order slip parameter significantly results to an increase in the temperature as well as nanoparticle concentration profiles, while it reduces the velocity profile.
The Effect of Viscous Dissipation and Thermal Radiation in Siskoferronanofluid Flow over a Porous Medium
Authors: Saritha K. , Muthusami R. , Rameshkumar M.
Published: June 2021

This Paper contributes heat transfer phenomena in mixed convection flow of Siskoferronanofluidover a porous surface in the presence of a temperature gradient heat sink with prescribed heatflux. The effect of viscous dissipation and thermal radiation on the flow field is also taken in to consideration. The three types of ferromagnetic particles Nickel Zinc ferrite (Ni–ZnFe2O4), ManganeseZinc ferrite (Mn1/2Zn1/2Fe2O4) and Cobalt ferrite (CoFe2O4) are considered with water (H2O)and Ethylene Glycol (C2H6O2) as conventional base fluids. The RungeKuttaFehlberg method of numerical methodology is used to solve momentum and energy equations. With the help of graphs andtables, the effect of various associated physical parameters on the velocity, temperature, Skin frictioncoefficient and Nusselt number is studied. The present results indicate that the heat transfer rate ofEthylene Glycol based Siskoferronanofluid is higher than that of water based fluid and also waterbased Siskoferronanofluid reduces shear stress of the fluid flow rapidly than Ethylene glycol basedfluid. The accuracy of the results comparison table is validated with the current data.
Development of a Modal-Based Turbomachine Blade-Disk Attachment Inspection Technique
Authors: Mantsha Khathutshelo Kentridge , Desai Dawood Ahmed , Heyns P. Stephan
Published: June 2021

Turbine blade failures are among the leading causes of steam turbine failure. Failure types typically include cracking, rubbing, blade fouling, and foreign object damage. There is currently a range of non-destructive testing methods used to detect damage at the blade-disk attachment zone, all of which involve disassembling of the blade from the disk for periodic inspection. Evidence indicate that a method to detect damage at the blade-disk attachment zone using a non-contact, non-destructive in-situ off-line modal-based structural health monitoring technique could be useful under some circumstances. Such a technique would have the advantage of eliminating the necessity to disassemble blades during inspection. This would result in significant cost savings. Also, defects associated with the disassembly and reassembly of blades would be avoided. Thus, the aim of this study was to develop a modal-based turbomachinery blade disk attachment inspection technique. Modal parameters were acquired from a robust experimental modal analysis of freely supported low-pressure steam turbine blade-disk segment assemblies. Artificial single-location cracks were intentionally introduced into the turbine blades by cutting a 1 mm thickness notch at three probable damage locations, namely, at the upper pinhole on the leading-edge pressure side, above the root at the base of the aerofoil on the leading-edge and on the trailing-edge. In this work, a finite element analysis of the bladed disk segment assemblies was carried out with and without damage. To validate the reliability of the numerical models, the numerical results were correlated with the measured values, the results of which showed a strong correlation. Finally, a parametric study was conducted in which various healthy and damaged blade-disk cases were systematically investigated. This was done to examine the sensitivity of the blade natural frequency to damage. The artificial damage above the root was found to cause the largest changes in natural frequency. These changes were even more pronounced for assemblies with two blades. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to assess the discriminatory ability of the results. Each damage case was found to be unique and therefore identifiable from its corresponding healthy case.
Exploratory Study of the Role of Logistics Service Providers in Terms of Traceability in the Process of Outsourcing of Logistics’ Activities: Case of Moroccan LSP
Authors: Azzouz Khaoula , Arif Jabir , Benboubker Mohamed Badr
Published: June 2021

The paper focuses on Information and communication technologies (ICT) deployed by Logistics service providers (LSP), particularly for the monitoring and companies. Indeed, nowadays ICT are essential for any implementation of efficient traceability, notably for the outsourcing of logistics activities. This paper is structured around two parts: the first part presenting the state of the art in terms of outsourcing logistics activities and traceability. The second part concerns a comparative study combining a set of LSP operating in Morocco and those operating abroad through several criteria. These criteria include the services offered and the technology deployed for rigorous traceability. The comparative study will determine the profile of the LSP operating in Morocco and adopting an effective and efficient traceability strategy based on innovative technology.
Engineering Properties of Concrete with a Ternary Blend of Fly Ash, Wheat Straw Ash, and Maize Cob Ash
Authors: Bheel Naraindas , Awoyera Paul O. , Olalusi Oladimeji B.
Published: June 2021

In recent years, recycled materials mostly available in abundant quantities in local agricultural fields are considered as potential constituent material for concrete production. Also, cement production emits many toxic gases in the atmosphere, which causes environmental pollution and greenhouse gases. Thus, recyc;ed materials, such as fly ash (FA), wheat straw ash (WSA), and maize corn ash (MCA) are condered as cementitious binders in concrete for sustainable development. This study aims to determine the engineering properties of concrete with a ternary blend of fly ash, wheat straw ash, and maize cob ash. A total of 73 concrete cubes, 42 reinforced concrete prisms and 42 concrete cylinders were cast to examine mechanical properties of concrete at 7, 28, and 56 curing days. At 28 days (maturity period), the experimental results showed an increase in compressive, tensile, and flexural strength by 12.28%, 9.33%, and 9.93%, respectively, at 9% substitution of ternary cementitious materials (TCM). However, the density of concrete was reduced by 9.92%, with an increase in the TCM content after 28 days. Moreover, the modulus of elasticity was improved by 14.23% with an increase in the content of TCM up to 18% after 28 days, and drying shrinkage of concrete was reduced with the introduction of TCM content after 50 days. However, the workability of fresh concrete decreased as the percentage of TCM increased. Results of this study proved that agricultural materials investgated could be good fit as binder in cementitious composites.
Effectiveness of Pile Relief Device with Special Reference to Hemorrhoids and Fissure in Ano among General Population - A Clinical Study
Authors: Suri Hitender , Suri Deepika , Bansal Kamalpreet , Suri Sauvik , Ghodke Virendera , Kaur Gurjeet
Published: June 2021

Background:

Hemorrhoids and fissure are one of the most common anorectal problems. It is reported that 1 in 5 patients suffers hemorrhoids and fissure during their lifetime.

Aim and Objectives:

To study the effectiveness of “pile relief device” in the management of hemorrhoids and fissures among patients attending outpatient department.

Methodology:

Hence, a clinical study has been carried out among 1000 patients at Rana Piles Hospital, Sirhind (Punjab), to treat the fissures and hemorrhoids by a cryotherapy device called Pile Relief Device.

Results:

The result shown that there is significant regression of haemorrhoidal pile mass, healing of fissure mucosa, and no anal stenosis.

Conclusion:

The results were shown that the Pile Relief Device is effective over today's conventional line of treatment.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Muscle Recovery after Skeletal Muscle Injury in Rats
Authors: El-Sheikh Amal Ahmed , El-Kordy Eman Ali , Issa Sara Alaa
Published: June 2021

Background:

Muscle injuries represent a great part of athletic injuries. The repairing of skeletal muscle after injury is highly influenced by its regenerative response that may be affected by thermotherapy.

Aim:

This research examined the consequence of heat therapy on muscle recovery after skeletal muscle injury in rats.

Materials and Methods:

Forty-five male adult albino rats were classified into three groups: control, cardiotoxin-injected without heat (nonheating group), and cardiotoxin-injected with heat (heating group). Muscle injury was caused by the injection of cardiotoxin intramuscularly into the tibialis anterior muscles. Heating treatment (40°C for 20 min) was started immediately after the injury. Subsequent observations were performed at day 1, 3, and 7 after injury, including histological imaging and vimentin immunostaining expression.

Results:

In the heating group, the regenerating myotubes, having two or more central nuclei, first looked at 3 days after muscle injury, while in the nonheating group, the regenerating fibers were first observed at 7 days after muscle injury. Immunohistochemically, the vimentin reactions were absent in control muscle fibers but were identified in regenerating muscle fiber of the heating group earlier than in the nonheating group.

Conclusion:

Starting of heat treatment immediately after muscle injury promoted the regeneration of muscle fibers.
Spectral distribution of symmetrized circulant matrices
Authors: Bourget Alain
Published: June 2021

We provide a description of the spectrum and compute the eigenvalues distribution of circulant Hankel matrices obtained as symmetrization of classical Toeplitz circulant matrices. Other types of circulant matrices such as simple and Cesàro circulant matrices are also considered.
Identification of Self-Propelled Sweepers and Cleaning Equipment Part 2 - Machines with a Gross Vehicle Mass up to 5000 kg
Authors:   MTC2, Sweeper, Cleaner, and Machinery
Published: June 2021

This SAE Standard applies to all self-propelled machines with a gross vehicle mass up to 5000 kg that are utilized to clean material from outside paved areas, parkland, floors in non-residential buildings and areas principally exposed to pedestrian traffic. Primary methods for material removal can be by mechanical, pneumatic, washing and flushing systems, or in a combination of any system.
Antimicrobial resistance patterns of phenotype Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing bacterial isolates in a referral hospital in northern Tanzania
Authors: Kajeguka Debora C. , Nambunga Petro P. , Kabissi Frank , Kamugisha Benjamin , Kassam Nancy , Nyombi Balthazar , Mataro Chacha , Maro Venance , Chilongola Jaffu O.
Published: June 2021

Background: Production of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) by bacteria is a chronic problem in a health care set up. In order to have adequate information for treatment of bacterial infections especially ESBL producing isolates, it is crucial to understand the trends in the antibiotic-resistance pattern, occurrence and their geographical spread.  The objective of this study was to determine the antimicrobial resistance pattern among phenotype ESBL producing isolates in northern Tanzania.Methods: From July 2013 to January 2014, urine, pus and blood samples were collected from patients suspected to have bacterial infections at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre in Moshi, Tanzania. The isolates were identified based on standard laboratory procedures. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests were carried out using various antimicrobial discs as per the recommendations of Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute.Results: A total of 330 specimens were collected. They consisted of 46 urine, 264 pus (from wound) and 20 blood samples. Among isolated bacteria, ESBL producers were 29.7% (98) and non-producers were 70.5% (232).  Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae were the most isolated bacteria and dominant ESBL producers.  ESBL production was highly associated with moderate condition at discharge and longer periods of admission. More than 60% of the ESBL producing E. coli were resistant to ceftazidime, cefpodoxime, cefotaxime, amoxycilin, ciprofloxacin, and gentamycin. More than 80% of ESBL producing K. pneumonia and Proteus mirabilis were resistant to ceftazidime and cefotaxime. Fifty four percent of ESBL producing K. pneumonia were resistant to gentamycin.Conclusion: This study shows that ESLB phenotypes among Gram-negative bacteria are common among patients attending a tertiary hospital in northern in Tanzania. The findings suggest that clinical microbiology laboratories should take into account the diagnosis of ESBL producers in order to define the degree of the problem so as to establish a proper treatment protocol.
HIV and AIDS risk perception among sex workers in semi-urban Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Muula Adamson , Twizelimana Donatien
Published: June 2021

Background: Several health behaviour theories propose that risk perception affects the likelihood of behaviour intentions and practice. The perception of risk to HIV and AIDS among female sex workers in Malawi has not been well described. Yet knowledge of how this most at risk population perceives contagion could help in informing the design, implementation and monitoring of interventions.Methods: A cross sectional, qualitative study was conducted among female sex workers in Blantyre, Malawi between 2013 and 2014. Snowballing technique was used to recruit study participants. In depth interviews were done by six trained female research assistants among 45 female sex workers. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis.Results: There were mixed perceptions of risk to HIV infection among the sampled sex workers. While some of the study participants perceived themselves as at higher risk of acquiring infection, some considered themselves to be at no higher risk than the general population. Some study participants suggested that married women in stable relationship were at higher risk of infection than the female sex workers. Prayer and belief in God were reported to be protective from HIV acquisition while predestination or mere talking about HIV was perceived to result in vulnerability to infection. In terms of overall knowledge about HIV, this was assessed as high. Several barriers to consistent condom use were reported: non-availability at all times, high cost and unacceptable instructions of the female condom, offers of higher pay for unprotected sex by male clients and harassment and forced unprotected sex by police.Conclusions: We have reported expression of dissonance, fatalism and predestination among female sex workers in semi-urban Malawi is responses to the threat of HIV. There is need to develop context-specific safer sex programs among female sex worker in Malawi.
Rift Valley fever potential mosquito vectors and their infection status in Ngorongoro District in northern Tanzania
Authors: Mhina Athanas D. , Kasanga Christopher J. , Sindato Calvin , Karimuribo Esron D. , Mboera Leonard E.G.
Published: June 2021

Background: Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonotic disease. Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) has been isolated from more than 40 species of mosquitoes from eight genera. This study was conducted to determine the abundance of potential mosquito vectors and their RVFV infection status in Ngorongoro District of northern Tanzania.Methods: Adult mosquitoes were collected outdoors using the CDC light traps baited with carbon dioxide in five randomly selected villages namely, Meshili, Malambo, Osinoni, Endulen and Nainokanoka. The study was carried out towards the end of rainy season in May 2013. The traps were set in proximity to potential breeding sites and cattle kraals. The collected mosquitoes were identified to genus and species using morphological keys. They were tested for RVFV RNA  using  real time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (rRT-PCR).Results: A total of 2,094 adult mosquitoes belonging to three genera and nine species were collected. Most of them (87.5%) were collected in Meshili, followed by Malambo (8.2%) and Osinoni (4%) villages. No single mosquito was collected in Nainokanoka or Endulen. The nine species collected were Culex pipiens complex, Cx. antennatus, Cx. tigripes, Cx. annulioris, Cx. cinereus, Anopheles arabiensis, An. squamosus, An. pharoensis and Mansonia uniformis. No RVFV RNA was detected in the mosquito specimens.Conclusion: Various RVFV potential mosquito species were collected from the study villages. These mosquito vectors were heterogeneously distributed in the district suggesting a variation in RVF transmission risk in the study area.
Predictors of foeto-maternal outcome of patients with abruptio placenta at Bugando Medical Centre, Tanzania
Authors: Matovelo Dismas , Nandonde Kelvin , Massinde Anthony , Rumanyika Richard
Published: June 2021

Background: Abruptio placenta (AP) is one of the life-threatening obstetric complications for both the foetus and mother. We conducted this study to determine the incidence and predictors of adverse outcomes of abruptio placenta at Bugando Medical Centre (BMC) in northwest Tanzania.Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from October 2012 to April 2013. Women with clinical features of abruptio placenta attending BMC were recruited. Data were collected using a structured checklist and analysed with STATA 11.Results: A total of 3,800 deliveries occurred during study period. The incidence of AP was 2.5% (95/3800). Among patients with AP, 49 (51.6%) delivered by Caesarean section. Three (3.2%) maternal deaths occurred. These deaths were strongly associated with the presence of maternal anaemia (p<0.05), and postpartum haemorrhage (p<0.05). The foetal adverse outcomes were prematurity 78 (82.1%), foetal distress 65 (68.4%), low birth weight 46 (48.4%) and intrauterine foetal deaths 30 (31.6%). Perinatal deaths occurred in 52 (54.7 %) of the cases, and were predicted by low birth weight (p<0.001), vaginal delivery (p=0.001), birth asphyxia (p<0.001), and retroplacental clot (>700ml) (p<0.001).Conclusion: The incidence of AP at BMC is high and characterised by poor maternal and foetal outcomes. Patients with AP should be delivered promptly to improve their survival.
Anaemia prevalence and factors associated with haemoglobin change following radiotherapy in individuals with cancers at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Tanzania
Authors: Makubi Abel , Shiyo Andrew , Kahesa Crispin
Published: June 2021

Background: Despite the fact that anaemia is common worldwide, limited studies have been done in most developing countries to estimate its prevalence and factors associated with haemoglobin change in patients with cancers receiving radiotherapy.               Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at the Ocean Road Cancer Institute in Dar es salaam, Tanzania. All individuals with cancers who were admitted in the wards for radiation treatment from August to December 2013 were included. Information on social-clinical characteristics, cancer type and associated factors as well as haemoglobin level before and after radiation were obtained. The prevalence of anaemia was determined as a proportion and linear regression was used to determine factors associated with haemoglobin change.Results: A total of 230 study subjects were available for analysis, of whom 82% were females. The overall mean age was 50±14 years. Most of the subjects (44%) were residing in the coastal regions, 50% had never attended school and 77% had no formal employment. The overall prevalence of anaemia was 77% before and 82% after radiotherapy. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that history of blood transfusion (beta-coefficient= 1.193; p=0.004) was the only factor associated with absolute change in haemoglobin.Conclusion: The prevalence of anaemia was high, regardless of the cancer type. Blood transfusion appeared to have a positive change in haemoglobin following radiotherapy. Awareness should be increased to provide early detection of the condition with appropriate corrective measures.
Prevalence and factors associated with Trichomonas vaginalis infection among pregnant women attending public antenatal clinics in Mwanza city, North-western Tanzania
Authors: Mazigo Humphrey D. , Maufi Augustino J. , Kihunrwa Albert
Published: June 2021

Background: Trichomonas vaginalis is a sexually transmitted parasitic infection known to cause vaginitis especially in women of child bearing age. The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and factors associated with T. vaginalis among pregnant women attending public health facilities in Mwanza City, Tanzania.Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted among pregnant women aged 17-46 years attending three public antenatal clinics in Mwanza City, north-western Tanzania. Wet preparation and Giemsa stained thick smears techniques were used to diagnose T. vaginalis infection. Socio-demographic characteristics and other risk related behaviours were collected.Results: A total of 365 pregnant women participated in this study, 38 (10.41%) and 84 (23.01%) of them had trichomoniasis based on wet preparation and Giemsa stained thick smears respectively. On multivariable analysis, being HIV seropositive (AOR=11.65, 95%CI; 1.15-117.49, P<0.03) and having other sexual transmitted disease such as syphilis (AOR=4.40, 95%CI: 1.32-14.7, P<0.01) were significantly associated with T. vaginalis.Conclusion: The prevalence of T. vaginalis in pregnant women in Mwanza city is high and the infection is associated with sexually transmitted diseases such as syphilis and HIV. Routine screening of T. vaginalis during ante-natal care clinics is highly recommended to reduce pregnancy complications related to T. vaginalis infection.
Prevalence and distribution of oral health knowledge according to sociodemographic, behavioural and clinical characteristics in selected coastal districts of Tanzania
Authors: Minja Irene K. , Astrom Anne N. , Masalu Joyce R.
Published: June 2021

Background: Having knowledge about health issues is necessary for making informed decisions related to practicing lifestyles conducive to good health. The aim of this study was to identify socio-demographic, behavioural and clinical covariates of knowledge related to the cause and prevention of oral diseases among older adults in Tanzania.Methods: A cross sectional household survey was conducted in two regions of Tanzania; Pwani and Dar es Salaam city. A total 1031 older adults aged 55 and above were personally interviewed, before undergoing a full mouth examination.Results: the proportion of older adults with knowledge (total knowledge score≥ 1) on dental caries and gum disease was 14.9% and 2.3%, respectively. Having low education level, belonging to a lower wealth quartile and lack of perceived need to see a dentist, were strongly associated with having no knowledge on dental caries. None of the covariates were significantly associated with knowledge on gum disease.Conclusion: Knowledge on the two oral diseases is low among older adults interviewed. Factors associated with knowledge demonstrate substantial socio economic disparities. Development of policies and health education programs that target behavioural and socio economic determinants is recommended.
Renal dysfunction among adult patients in Mwanza, Tanzania: prevalence, outcomes and associated factors
Authors: Kilonzo Semvua B. , Seiffudin Abdulraassul T. , Bakshi Fatma A. , Gunda Daniel W.
Published: June 2021

Background: The prevalence and mortalities due to renal diseases is estimated to be high in sub-Saharan Africa. Little is known about these conditions among the hospitalized adult-patients in Tanzania. The objective of this study was to determine the magnitude, associated factors and outcomes of renal dysfunction among the inpatients at Bugando Medical Centre in Mwanza, Tanzania.Methods: This was both analytical cross section (for determining the prevalence and predictors) and prospective cohort (for determining the outcomes) study. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected from all adult inpatients. For those patients with initial estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate (eGFR) of <60mls/min/1.73m2, a repeat creatinine test was done after 3-months to diagnose the chronic kidney disease.Results: Out of 637 patients, 48.2% were females and the median age was 45 years. Twenty-eight percent of the study population had renal dysfunction. The prevalence of Chronic Kidney Disease was 41/59 (69.5%).  The odds of having renal dysfunction was strongly predicted by older age (p=0.009), female sex (p=0.004), heart failure (p<0.001), diabetes (p=0.04), decreased urine output (p<0.001) and proteinuria (p=0.004). Mortality, both in-hospital (3.23 [2.19–4.74] p<0.001) and at 1-month post-discharge (3.07[2.13-4.41], p<0.001) was found to be significantly higher in patients with renal dysfunction.Conclusion: Our study has demonstrated a high magnitude of renal dysfunction and associated mortalities. This strongly emphasizes the need to increase awareness among clinicians in sub-Saharan Africa on renal diseases so as to pro-actively screen, prevent, diagnose and early treatment of renal dysfunction among hospitalized patients.
Decline in the prevalence HIV among pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Tanzania, 2001-2011
Authors: Manyahi Joel , Jullu Boniphace S. , Abuya Mathias I. , Juma James , Kilama Bonita , Sambu Veryeh , Nondi Josef , Rabiel Bernard , Makyao Neema , Ramadhani Angela , Somi Geoffrey , Matee Mecky I.
Published: June 2021

Background: The Tanzania National AIDS Control Programme has established HIV sentinel surveillance among antenatal clinic (ANC) attendees as one of the methods for collecting data on HIV prevalence. This article provides trends on HIV prevalence for 92 sentinel sites that have constantly been part of the surveillance system since 2001 and have participated in at least three consecutive rounds.Method: The surveillance population included all pregnant women aged 15–49 years who were attending a selected sentinel ANC site for the first time for any pregnancy between 2001 and 2011. Serial testing for HIV infection was done anonymously by detecting for the presence of IgG antibodies to HIV on dried blood spot (DBS) specimens. HIV trends were calculated taking into account random effects from sites on the following variables:  region, sites and socio-demographic characteristics defined as age, marital status, parity, education level and duration of stay at present residence.Results: Overall, there was a significant decline in HIV prevalence from 9.6% in 2001 to 5.6% in 2011 (p<0.01). Specifically, the HIV prevalence among 15-24 years’ pregnant women significantly declined from 7.8% in 2001/2002 to 4% in 2011 (p<0.01). The decline in HIV prevalence occurred irrespective of residence, marital status, education level or previous pregnancies.Conclusion: There has been a significant decline in HIV infections among young pregnant women attending ANC clinics in Tanzania since 2001. This study also indicates that ANC surveillance among pregnant women over time can provide useful estimates of HIV situation between the population surveys.