bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prostate Cancer:A Public Health Problem
Authors:   Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, Gutierrez Fitzgerald Osuna , Rodríguez Mariana Partida ,   Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara, Tolentino Karen Ivonne Calderon ,   Universidad del Valle de México, Manzano Quiahuitzin Elizabeth Vazquez ,   Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Aquino Alma Brenda Reyes ,   Universidad Autónoma Benito Juárez de Oaxaca, Herrena Edith Carolina Martonez ,   Universidad Autónoma de Coahuila
Published: October 2022

Prostate cancer is an affectation acquired in old age, men who develop it may have genetic factors, other predisposing diseases such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and bad habits such as alcoholism and smoking that may be the cause of developing the affectation. The identification of risk factors as well as their early treatment can significantly reduce morbidity and mortality
Sleep Quality and Dynmptoms of Depression in Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors:   Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Tlaxcala, México, la Luz León Vázquez María de , Emilio Domínguez San Martín ,   Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Tlaxcala, México, Akin Mejía Hernández Oliver ,   Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Tlaxcala, México, Carmen Galicia Flores María del ,   Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Tlaxcala, México, Monserrat Zamora Lira María ,   Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social, Tlaxcala, México
Published: October 2022

Diabetes mellitus and depression are common comorbidities, a relationship that may indicate a shared autonomic and neurohormonal etiology, which affects the quality of life, including sleep quality. Objective: To determine the relationship between sleep quality and symptoms of depression in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a family medicine unit. Material and method. Observational, analytical, cross-sectional study; patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, older than 18 years, indistinct sex were included, the clinimetric scale was applied to assess depressive symptoms and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, previously validated, descriptive statistics were used, chi-square (X2), Mann Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis H. Results: 308 patients were included, 64% women, between 31 and 87 years, median 64 years, diabetes diagnosis time between 1 and 35 years, 41.9% (129) uncontrolled. According to the clinimetric scale for the diagnosis of depression, 26.3% have mild depression, 6.5% moderate depression, and 12.7% severe depression. 56.8% have poor sleep quality and 43.2% have good sleep quality according to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. Depression was not associated with age (p 3.26), occupation (p .677), education (p= .083), marital status (p = .475), body mass index (p= .083) or job quality. sleep (p= 0.065). Conclusions: Sleep quality is poor in more than half of the population, it is not associated with depression or glycemic control
Causes and Effects of Flooding in Nigeria: A Review
Authors:   2Department of Architecture, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Mfon Ifiok Enobong , Oguike Michael Chukwuemeka , Eteng Salvation Ubi ,   Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, Etim Ndifreke Moses ,   Department of Urban and Regional Planning, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Published: October 2022

Flooding is an environmental hazard that needs appropriate measures to be instituted to stem the tide of occurrence. In recent times, flooding has become a regular feature hence, the study focused on examining the causes and effects of flooding in Nigeria. The study relied on previous academic/scholarly articles in achieving the aim. It was noted in the study that flooding is caused by natural and human activities. For instance, excessive rainfall, terrain and nature of soils are natural causes of flooding. Furthermore, poor environmental planning/monitoring, housing development in flood prone areas, deforestation, haphazard developments resulting in the blockage of drains, poor waste disposal practices, negligence by government in designing and implementing policies at various levels as well as poor environmental planning and weak enforcement of policies contribute to flood occurrence. As expected, the effects of flooding are negative. Notably, flooding results in submerging of farm lands, housing properties and loss the lives of victims. Due to the negative effects of flooding, it can be accepted that flooding is a serious environmental threat that demands the institutionalization of appropriate measures in ensuring its management. To this end, the present study suggested that government should ensure that environmental management policies are properly enforced in the country. Equally, development control activities should be taken seriously to avoid erecting developments on flood plains and flood prone areas. Finally, regular environmental education should be given priority in the society.
Influence of Information Sharing on Performance of Manufacturing Firms in Kenya
Authors:   Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kiprotich Evans Kipchumba
Published: October 2022

Information has emerged as a key resource that improves manufacturing companies' performance and helps a company efficiently satisfy consumers' expectations. The goal of the study was to ascertain how information sharing affected the performance of manufacturing companies. The study was backed by the stakeholder theory and the systems theory. The explanatory research design was used in the study. The sample size was 264 procurement managers from Kenyan manufacturing enterprises, with 766 procurement managers as the target population. Respondents were chosen using stratified, simple random, and purposive sampling methods. The primary data collected using questionnaires. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics (means, standard deviations) and inferential analysis (linear regression analysis) with the aid of SPSS program. The regression model showed that (R2 =0.276), indicating that the information sharing predicted 27.6% of the firm performance. The information sharing (β=0.417, P=0.000) had positive and significant effect on performance of manufacturing firms. The study concludes that information sharing has significant effect on performance of manufacturing companies in Kenya. It has been determined that the implementation of information sharing, the quality of the shared information, the kind of shared information, and the technology used to communicate this information all affect how much information businesses exchange throughout supply chains. According to the report, industry participants in the manufacturing sector should collaborate closely in order to improve the quality of the information that they share with other providers.
Numerical Solutions of Time Dependent Partial Differential Equations via HAAR Wavelets
Authors: Ghafoor Abdul
Published: October 2022

An effective wavelet based scheme coupled with finite difference is used for the solution of two nonlinear time dependent problems namely: Burgers' and Boussinesq equations. These equations have wide-spread application in many fields such as viscous medium, turbulence , uid dynamics, infiltration phenomena etc. The proposed scheme convert the partial differential equations (PDE) to system of algebraic equations. The obtained system can be solved easily. In this paper convergence of the scheme is also discussed to show validity of the technique. Effectiveness of the scheme is shown with the help of test problems. Numerical results verify that the suggested scheme is more accurate, convenient, fast and require low computational cost.
Determination of heavy metals in the dates (P. dactylifera L.) of Balochistan (Panjgoor and Turbat)
Authors: Achakzai Rozia , Khan Naqeebullah , Kakar Attiq-Ur-Rehman , Khan Samiullah , Tareen Abdul Hakeem
Published: October 2022

Background and objective: Dates are a high-nutritional-value food that is suitable for humans since they contain major nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and dietary fibers. The current study aimed to determine the level of some heavy metals such as Fe, Pb, Co, Mn, Cd, Cu in the dates (P. dactylifera L.) taken from various regions of Balochistan (Panjgoor and Turbat).
Method: The analysis was performed using the atomic absorption spectrophotometer.
Results: The results indicated the presence of all the analyzed heavy metals in the samples. The mean detected concentration order of heavy metals is Fe > Pb > Cu > Mn > Cd > Co. The highest average level of Fe was detected and the least average level of Co was determined in dates.
Conclusions: It is concluded that the levels of all the detected heavy metals in all varieties of dates were found within the admissible limit of WHO/FAO and ATSDR.
Development of guidelines for the control of lead content in paint and varnishes
Authors: Fedorova Nataliya Evgenevna , Egorova Marina Valentinovna , Rodionov Aleksandr Sergeevich , Bogdanova Yuliya Yurevna , Khamidulina Khalidya Khizbulaevna , Tarasova Elena Vladimirovna , Nazarenko Andrey Konstantinovich
Published: October 2022

Introduction. Determination of low concentrations of lead in paint and varnishes is one of the actual problems in ensuring the safety of these products. The requirements set out in the draft Technical Regulation of the Eurasian Economic Union «on the Safety of Paint and Coating Materials» for a standard of 0.009% lead on a dry weight basis stipulate the availability of precision methods for determining lead in paint and varnishes with low detection limits. Materials and methods. Nine different types of paint samples were selected as test objects. The study was carried out by atomic absorption spectrometry with electrothermal atomisation with pre-microwave sample preparation. Paint samples were preliminarily applied on a sheet of sanded FC plywood, dried and taken from the surface with a spatula in the form of fine shavings. The absolutely dry chips were microwaved, centrifuged to separate the undecomposed sludge and analysed. The efficiency of the developed approach was proven by validating the method on 20 model samples of one of the paint types investigated. Results. Validation of the proposed method of lead determination in paints gave satisfactory results in terms of recovery rate and repeatability, so it can be concluded that the method is suitable for the solution of the posed analytical problem. Having analysed the results obtained by measuring lead content in 9 samples of paint products according to the proposed scheme in the described methodology, one can make a confident conclusion about the absence of exceeding the maximum permissible lead content, considering the expected reduction of the standard to 0.009%. Conclusion. The usage of the proposed method will make it possible to successfully control the lead content in paintwork materials at levels that comply with international standards and, in the long term, ensure that the requirements of the Technical Regulation of the Eurasian Economic Union «on the Safety of Paint and Coating Materials» are met in terms of reducing the regulatory indicator to 0.009%.
Do Earnings Quality and Audit Quality Add Value to Foreign Investors in Oman?
Authors: Ani Mawih Kareem Al
Published: October 2022

Using a sample of 726 firm year observations from 2008 to 2018, the purpos of this study is to investigate the relationship between earnings quality (EQ), audit quality (AQ), and luring more international investors to Oman. Persistence and value relevance are two EQ metrics used in this study, while auditor size is used to assess audit quality (Big 4 audit firm). The data for this analysis was extracted from the Capital IQ database, while some additional data was personally computed from Omani capital markets and enterprises. The study employs a quantitative methodology, and ordinary least squares (OLS) regression is employed to examine the connections between EQ measurements, aptitude, and luring foreign investors. Results show that in Oman, perseverance, value relevance, and audit quality are beneficial. Furthermore, the data shows that combining earning persistence with AQ adds value and helps attract additional FI, but combining AQ with value relevance does not.
A Proposed Framework for Identifying the Impact of Adopting Lean Tools on Enterprise’s Environmental Sustainability Performance
Authors: Badroos Ywana Maher Lamey , Zaghloul Gouda Abd El-Raouf , Musa Ahmad Abd El-Salam Abu
Published: October 2022

In order to identify the effects of implementing lean tools on an enterprise’s environmental performance, a framework is proposed in this study in order to explain the direct relationship between the two. In order to demonstrate lean and sustainability principles, sustainability’s dimensions, pertinent lean tools, and the influence of adopting lean tools on corporate environmental performance, descriptive analytical techniques are utilised to evaluate the current literature. Additionally, a framework for assessing the effect of using lean technologies on an enterprise’s environmental performance is proposed using a constructive approach. The analysis indicates that there may be a direct or indirect link between the application of lean and environmental performance. Only the direct link between lean implementation and environmental performance was examined in this article. When lean tools are used, environmental performance improves accidentally as a consequence of lower material, water, and energy consumption, waste generation, and emissions into the air, land, or water. On the other hand, future research can examine the indirect relationship between the application of lean and environmental performance. This study offers a novel academic methodology for assessing the influence of lean doption on environmental performance. Additionally, managers can use the framework as a guide to find the best lean tools to apply in order to get rid of lean waste and the associated environmental waste.
ICT Adoption and Performance of Tea Farmers Payment by Co-Operative Societies in Kericho County, Kenya
Authors: Aoko Sharon , Mose Thomas
Published: October 2022

Purpose: The study seeks to establish Information and Communication Technology adoption and performance of tea farmer’s payment by Co-operative Societies in Kericho County that are privately owned with reference to Kericho County.

Methodology: The study used quantitative and qualitative methodology to collect data, analyze and report findings regards to effect of Information and Communication Technology adoption and performance of farmer’s payment Cooperatives in Kericho County, Kenya. The study tested Technology of Diffusion Theory that goes hand in hand with Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) to justify adoption of ICT has a significant impact to performance of farmers payment Cooperatives in Kericho County, Kenya.  The study classified the target population into strata that is groups of 6 based on the villages with farmers that supply tea to 5 private owned tea factories in Kericho County. The total population used in this study was 828 farmers from 5 tea factories in Kericho County. A structured questionnaire was administered to 263 tea farmers who were divided based on 6 villages to collect primary data.

Findings: The study findings indicated that mobile wallet, mobile banking security, quality content service provided by the mobile financial service providers and access to account information contribute positively to payment performance of privately owned tea cooperatives.

Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study recommends utilization of mobile wallet, mobile banking security, quality content service provided by the mobile financial service providers and access to account information to enhance performance of tea farmer’s payment by Co-operatives. This theory may be used by different Cooperatives regarding the utilization of the digital platform and how it can contribute to the maximization of profits in the organizations. It will facilitate individual researchers and scholars to identify gaps in the current research and carry out research in those areas, the work will also be used by academicians who will want to study similar area. Policy makers in the government and Cooperatives may use TAM theory to gain understanding on the effects of adoption of Information and Communication Technology has on performance of farmers payment Cooperatives. This remains instrumental in identifying areas that need reforms and in the making of policies that are favorable in the investment of ICT infrastructure in the country.
Musculoskeletal Disorders in Pakistani Women during Pregnancy: A Population Base Study
Authors: Nabi Muhammad , Habib  Erum , Ahmed Rubina , Yaseen Muhammad , Ali Nasir , Rahim Shah Abdur
Published: October 2022

Introduction: Changes in posture, blood physiology, weight increase, changes in musculotendinous strength, and joints and ligaments laxity are only some of the physical changes that occur during pregnancy. According to several studies, pregnancy-related back discomfort affects 25% to 75% of women. The primary goal of this research is to provide a comprehensive picture of women's musculoskeletal issues during pregnancy and identify the most prevalent triggers of pregnancy-related musculoskeletal discomfort.

Methodology: From Jan 2019 to Jan 2020, the Department of Orthopedic Surgery Territory Care Hospital performed this investigation. In this research, 92 women were enrolled after the IRB (Institutional Review Board) of the Territory Care Hospital approved the study's ethical standards. This research monitored patients throughout their pregnancies to see if they had any musculoskeletal issues. Pregnant women between the ages of 18 and 45 who had a term pregnancy (37-42 weeks) were included in the research. The authors didn't include women with any history of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or SLE, a systemic autoimmune disease.

Findings: Participants in the research were 32.18 years old on average with a standard deviation of 7.82 years. Moreover, half of the participants were college graduates, 71. (76.44%) while pregnant, participants gained an average weight of 14.70 and 7.82 kg. Only four (4 %) of these women engaged in aerobic activity. Most study participants reported musculoskeletal complaints at night with 75 reporting nighttime symptoms (85%). There were 82 (90%) people with low back pain, 10 (10%) participants with arthralgia, 35 (40%) participants with arthritis, and 32 (35%) participants with neck pain in the study. Pregnancy-related musculoskeletal issues substantially drain the health care system's budget. Arthritis and neck discomfort is among the most prevalent musculoskeletal complaints. Pregnancy-related weight gain and inactivity exacerbate these issues. The findings of this research need to be validated in more extensive trials.
SOCIAL-ECONOMIC FACTORS INFLUENCING BLENDED LEARNING AMONG STUDENTS IN KENYA MEDICAL TRAINING COLLEGE
Authors: Tibi George , Regina Bonareri , Okumu Winstone , Musyoka Kainde , Anyango Candy , Mutiria Ben
Published: October 2022

Purpose: The objective was to determine the social-economic factors influencing blended learning among students in Kenya Medical Training College

Methodology: A cross-sectional descriptive study was done. In the KMTC campuses the average student population is thirty thousand (30,000). The research used simple random sampling in the selected campuses. The sample size was 384. Primary data was collected using questionnaires and Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics whereas qualitative data was analyzed using content analysis. Qualitative data was transformed into themes and analyzed with the helped of SPSS version 25. Collected data was edited, sorted, cleaned and coded for data analysis.

Findings: The study concluded that Proficiency in the use of a learning device and cost are major challenges that hinder success of blended learning. Most respondents feel that blended learning is expensive. The study also concluded that students have devices that they can use for online learning and that students can access the college e-learning platform on season basis,

Unique contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study recommends that the institutions should Strengthening of campus internet services to support E learning. The study further recommended that the policy on delivery of learning instructions and materials should be reviewed to reflect the changing times. Further, policy makers need to consider the characteristics of the learners and trainers so as to reduce the barriers to successful implementation of blended learning by applying different strategies to each category of adopters.
The Effect of Work Motivation Model on Nurse’s Stress in Leith General Hospital, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Hemairi Mohammed , Al Harazi Saleh Abdulkareem , Al Yazidi Saleh Marzek , Al Malawi Daifullah Oleyan Mirbad , Al Amary Ahmed Hamdi Mohammed , Al Malawi Mustafa Saad , Hakami Ibrahim Yahiya
Published: October 2022

Purpose: Nursing is a stressful occupation, it had been theorized that work motivation influences the degree of job stress. However, there is lack of research about the relationship between motivation and stress in health organizations. Therefore, the current study aims to explore the impact of organization motivation on work stress among nurses working in a public hospital in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Methodology: Through a cross-sectional study, all nurses in Al-Leith hospital which is a semi-urban general public hospital were invited to be included in the study. They had been requested to a predesigned valid self-administered questionnaire including demographic variables, Motivation at work questionnaire (MWQ) and Workplace Stress Scale. SPSS ver 26 was used for data entry and statistical analysis; Pearson correlation coefficient was used and statistical significance was set at P-value <0.05.  

Findings: Out of all interviewed nurses (n=204), non-Saudis formed 78.9% and the majority were female (86.8%), and two thirds had bachelor qualification (66.2%). The overall mean scores for the domains of the organization motivation were highest in shared values (Total mean±SD; 3.8±0.85) and intrinsic job motivation (Total mean±SD; 3.8±0.79), while the lowest was on influence on work (Total mean±SD; 3.3±0.94). The total work stress score accounted for 2.7±0.73. The correlation matrix displayed showed that the work stress showed significantly negative correlation with all domains of the work motivation p<0.05.

Recommendations: Work motivation, through its all domains, is inversely correlated with work stress. Stakeholders and policy makers of health organizations should take these findings in account when planning for improving occupational environment for nurses.
Relationship between Attachment Styles and Delinquent Behaviour among Adolescents in Foster Care Centers in Nairobi Kenya
Authors: Nyaboke Nyambega Lilian , Asatsa Stephen , Koros Peter
Published: October 2022

The purpose of this study was to examine attachment styles and delinquent behaviours of children brought up in foster care centers in Njiru Ward, Kasarani Sub-County, Nairobi County, Kenya. The study was guided by the following research questions: What are the attachment styles and delinquent behavior patterns among foster children in Njiru Ward? What is the relationship between attachment styles and delinquency among foster children in Njiru Ward, Kasarani Sub-County? This study was informed by the Attachment Theory, Sub-culture and differential opportunity theories. A descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was used in this study. The target population included 19 foster care centers in Njiru Ward, with a total population of 1,117 and a sample of 336 (318 children, caretakers, and 6 directors) was selected for the study. Proportionate random sampling technique was used to select the children whereas purposive sampling was used for selecting the caretakers and directors in the foster care centers. The data was collected using questionnaires. Quantitative and qualitative approaches of analysis were used in the study. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used in analysing quantitative data. The study established that there was a statistical significant relationship between attachment styles and delinquent behaviour among children in foster homes in Njiru Ward. The study recommends assessment of attachment styles in children with delinquent problems to aid in understanding and establishing holistic correctional measures.
Kumar Oynama Bozukluğunda Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi: Bir Olgu Sunumu
Authors: ÇEBİ Zeynep , KARAAZİZ Meryem
Published: October 2022

Bu olgu sunumunda, DSM-5 tanı kriterlerine göre kumar oynama bozukluğu belirtileri gösteren 26 yaşında erkek bir danışana bilişsel davranışçı terapi yöntemiyle tedavi süreci uygulanmıştır. Danışan uzun yıllardır kumar oynadığını, sistematik bir hal alan kumar oynama davranışı sebebiyle yaşamının kötü yönde seyrettiğini beliritmiştir. Her ne kadar kendince mantıklı ve işlevsel nitelikte olduğunu düşündüğü birçok yönteme başvursa da, bu bağımlılığını yenemediğini vurgulamıştır. Bu yöntemlerin iyileşme sürecine bir katkı sağlamadığını fark eden danışan kendine olan inancını yitirme noktasına geldiğini ve profesyonel bir desteğe başvurduğunu bildirmiştir. Bunun için danışana ilk olarak hastalıkla ilgili kapsamlı bilgi verilmiş ve kişinin baş etme becerileri, özdenetim, kendi sorumluluğunu alma becerilerini geliştirmesi için psikoeğitim teknikleri uygulanmıştır. Düşünsel boyutun ardından davranışsal boyutta yapılan müdahalelerle kumar oynama davranışını ortaya çıkaran aracı davranışlara vurgular yapılmıştır. Yapılan müdahaleler sonucunda terapi süreci ancak birkaç davranışsal değişiklikle sonuçlanmıştır. Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi’de bu patoloji özelinde müdahaleler ile ilgili daha fazla çalışmaya ihtiyaç duyulmaktadır. Bu sayede Bilişsel Davranışçı Terapi ile kumar oynama bozukluğuna yapılan müdahalelerde yönlendirici ve iyilik halini artırıcı nitelikte kazanımlar sağlanabilecektir.
PELAPORAN BERITA COVID-19 DALAM MALAYSIAKINI DAN THE STAR
Authors: Jing Peng Hooi , Mohamad Saleh Mohamad Saifudin
Published: October 2022

Pandemik COVID-19 yang melanda dunia turut memberikan kesan yang hebat buat negara membangun seperti Malaysia. Sejak awal pandemik ini berlaku, akhbar tempatan di negara ini telah memberikan perhatian yang serius terhadap pelaporan harian mengenai isu ini yang menjadi sumber utama buat pembaca di Malaysia dalam mendapatkan maklumat yang tepat dan terkini. Mengambil kira peranan penting akhbar dalam pelaporan mengenai COVID-19, kajian ini dilaksanakan dengan tujuan untuk meneliti jenis ton, bingkai dan imej yang digunakan dalam pelaporan isu COVID-19 dalam dua akhbar dalam talian terpilih iaitu Malaysiakini dan The Star. Analisis kandungan dipilih sebagai kaedah kajian dan sampel artikel berita COVID-19 diambil untuk dianalisis dari 18 Mac 2020 hingga 31 Mac 2020 iaitu semasa tempoh Perintah Kawalan Pergerakan fasa pertama negara. Hasil kajian mendapati bahawa sebanyak 1305 berita berkenaan COVID-19 telah dilaporkan sepanjang tempoh tersebut dan corak pelaporan kedua-dua akhbar adalah sama iaitu majoriti daripada pelaporan COVID-19 adalah menggunakan ton yang positif dengan bingkai tanggungjawab dan foto telah digunakan dalam setiap pelaporan. Diharapkan dapatan kajian ini dapat menyumbang kepada korpus ilmu bidang komunikasi kesihatan khususnya berkenaan media dan pandemik di Malaysia.
Preliminary observation of microplastic contamination in some spice-salt samples purchased in Hanoi city
Authors: Le Nhu Da , Phung Thi Xuan Binh , Hoang Thi Thu Ha , Duong Thi Thuy , Nguyen Thi Anh Huong , Nguyen Thi Minh Loi , Le Thi Phuong Quynh ,   Institute of Natural Product Chemistry, VAST, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Electric Power University, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Institute of Natural Product Chemistry, VAST, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Institute of Environmental Technology, VAST, Hanoi, Vietnam,   University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Quang Binh University,   Institute of Natural Product Chemistry, VAST, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

Currently, plastic and microplastic pollution have become a common problem in many countries around the world, especially in developing countries, including Vietnam. Salt is the main ingredient in most of the spices used, but microplastic contamination has also been reported in seasalt samples in Vietnam. This paper presents the observation results of microplastic concentrations in some spice-salt samples that were purchased in the market in Hanoi, Viet Nam. The analysis results showed that the microplastic concentrations in the spice-salt samples varied in a wide range, from 320 to 1880 items/kg spice-salt. Microplastic fibers accounted for the majority (99%), whereas fragment forms accounted for a negligible proportion (1%). Microplastics were observed with a wide variety of colors, of which blue, red, and black were predominant. The results contribute to assessing the level of microplastic contamination in spice-salts in Hanoi city, Vietnam in order to give warnings and propose solutions to prevent and minimize microplastic contamination in spice-salt, for protecting the health of human consumers.
Safety assessment of useing Ba Kich dried extract for 28 days
Authors: Vuong Duy Tien , Nguyen Thi Lien ,   National Institute of drug quality control, Hanoi, Vietnam,   National Institute of drug quality control, Hanoi, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

The “Ba kich” (Extractum Morinda ofcinalis) dried extract was evaluated for repeated dose toxicity at 28 days in rabbits. In a repeat dose toxicity test, rabbits were given oral solution of dry extract of Ba kich at the level of 0.2 g/kg and 1.0 g/kg for 28 days. Blood samples were taken on days 0, 14 and 28 to check biochemical and hematological parameters. Liver and kidney samples were obtained on day 28 for histopathology. The results of the 28-day repeated dose toxicity assessment showed that the dried Ba kich extract did not have a statistically significant effect on the biochemical and hematological indices, and did not cause damage to the histopathology of the kidney. However, dried Ba kich extract at both dose levels caused fatty degeneration and congestion in the liver of experimental rabbits.
Colistin-resistant and Extended-Spectrum 𝛽-Lactamase producing Escherichia coli from healthy people and clinical specimens in Ho Chi Minh city
Authors: Nguyen Do Phuc , Nguyen Ly Hoang Ngan , Nguyen Ngoc Toan , Huynh Thi Thanh Truyen , Vu Thi Thanh Thuy , Ngo My Lan , Nguyen Pham Ngoc Dung , Lam Thanh Nha , Nguyen Thi Thao Ly ,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City,   Institute of Public Health Ho Chi Minh City
Published: October 2022

Multidrug resistant bacteria have become a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Resistance to last resort antibiotics such as: colistin, newer generation cephalosporins is one of the most important current public health problems. Escherichia coli is the member of the normal microbiota of the human intestine and the intestinal and extra-intestinal pathogenic strains. Treating E. coli infection become difficult because of their resistance to different antibiotics, even to last resort antibiotics. The present study aimed to investigate the phenotypic and genotypic resistance against colistin in 181 extended-Spectrum β-Lactamase (ESBL) producing E. coli isolated from healhthy people and clinical specimens, (28 from healthy people, 153 from clinical specimens). The results showed: Out of 181 E. coli isolates, 13 (7.2%) were identified as colistin resistant phenotype in which 3.6% isolates from healthy people and 0.65% from clinical specimens was positive for the mcr-1 gene. Non of the ESBL producing E.coli isolates had the mcr-3 or mcr-5 genes.
Survey on infection and antibiotic resistance rates of Escherichia coli in pork and chicken meat at some markets in Buon Ma Thuot city in 2021
Authors: Tuong Quoc Trieu , Do Thi Thu Huong , Nguyen Thi Kim Hue , Truong Thi Thu ,   Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology of Tay Nguyen,   Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology of Tay Nguyen,   Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology of Tay Nguyen,   Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology of Tay Nguyen
Published: October 2022

To find out the infection rate, and the rate of resistance to common antibiotics of E. coli strains in some types of raw meat, contributing to the prevention of food poisoning and foodborne diseases, we conducted the study: “Survey on infection status and antibiotic resistance rate of E. coli in pork and chicken meat at some traditional markets in Buon Ma Thuot city in 2021”. The study aimed to determine the infection rate of E. coli strains in pork and chicken meat at markets in Buon Ma Thuot city in 2021, and determine antibiotic resistance rates of isolated strains of E. coli. The rate of E.coli infection on fresh meat was 90.59%, of which 42.35% of samples exceeded the maximum level. The rate of E.coli infection on fresh pork and chicken meat at traditional markets was 95.00% and 86.70%, respectively. The overall rate of antibiotic resistance was 96.75%; Amoxicillin was resistant with the highest rate (93.51%) and the lowest rate was ceftazidime (19.48%). General antibiotic resistance by sample type was 91.56%, from pork was 87.18%, from chicken was 96.05%.
Determination of ethylene oxide and 2-chloroethanol in food by triple quadrupole GCMS/MS, combined with QuEChERS extraction
Authors: Nguyen Duong Nguyen Nu , Truong Van Nhan , Le Thanh Tam , Nguyen Thanh Duy , Ly Tuan Kiet , Nguyen Van Dong ,   Center of analytical services and experimentation HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Center of analytical services and experimentation HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Center of analytical services and experimentation HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Center of analytical services and experimentation HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Center of analytical services and experimentation HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   University of Science - VNUHCM, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

In this study, ethylene oxide (EO), a fumigant for agricultural products, and its metabolite (2-chloroethanol, 2-CE), were extracted by QuEChERS method, and then quantified by GC-MS/MS system. Samples were extracted with acetonitrile, and cleaned up with a mixture of dispersive solid phase extraction (d-SPE), including MgSO4, PSA, C18 and GCB, within less than 20 min. The method has been validated on spices, oils, noodle, and food packaging. The results show that this method was high accuracy and precision at spike concentrations, with recovery ranged from 80 to 120%, and RSD lower than 20%. The limit of quantification was 0.01 mg/kg for both compounds, meeting the European (EU) maximum residue limit (MRL) at 0.01 mg/kg. This method has been applied to control the production of instant noodles, with 125 samples of ingredients (seasoning, dried vegetables, oil, flour, food packaging), instant noodles and other food. Among them, 13 ingredients detected 2-CE, and 1 spice detected both compounds, accounting for 11.2%. All 14 samples exceeded the EU MRL.  
Research for the yeast inhibiting ability of sorbic acid and cycloheximide applied to the quantitative analysis of Lactobacillus spp.
Authors: Truong Huynh Anh Vu , Nguyen Hoang Khue Tu , Luong Son Tung , Huynh Yen Ha , Chu Van Hai ,   Microbiology laboratory, Center of Analytical Services and Experimentation HCMC (CASE), Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   School of Biotechnology, HCMC International University, Vietnam National University HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Microbiology laboratory, Center of Analytical Services and Experimentation HCMC (CASE), Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Microbiology laboratory, Center of Analytical Services and Experimentation HCMC (CASE), Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Department of Science and Technology HCMC, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

The ability of sorbic acid and cycloheximide to inhibit yeast was investigated on nine yeast strains isolated from different sources. Sorbic acid was added to MRS agar at two concentrations 0.01 g/L (TCVN 5522:1991) and 1.4 g/L (TCVN 7906:2008). The results showed, at both concentrations; the inhibitory effect of sorbic acid on yeast strains was weak. In contrast, the survey results of MRS agar supplemented with cycloheximide with concentration ranges of 0.02; 0.04; 0.06; 0.08; and 0.10 g/L were inhibited yeast strains. The performance testing of MRS agar supplemented with 0.05 g/L of cycloheximide tested with productivity ratio (0.7 ≤ PR ≤ 1.4) and selectivity factor (SF ≥ 2) according to ISO 11133. Therefore, we determined ability to inhibit yeast from cycloheximide was higher than sorbic acid and suggested using MRS agar-supplemented cycloheximide with 0.05 g/L, pH 6.2 (after autoclaving) to establish the quantitative analysis of Lactobacillus spp. by the pouring plate technique, incubated at 37oC ± 1oC for 72 ± 3 hours. In addition, the research results contribute to improving the quantitative analysis of Lactobacillus spp. in order to ensuring the validity of results and providing scientific evidence for decisions on management of effective probiotic quality in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.  
Knowledge and practice in preventing chemical contamination of food by producers, traders, consumers, and participants in food safety management in Lac Thuy district, Hoa Binh province in 2021
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Hieu , Ninh Thi Nhung , Pham Thi Kieu Chinh ,   Lac Thuy District Medical Center, Thai Binh, Vietnam,   Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Binh, Vietnam,   Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Thai Binh, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

The situation of contaminated food is becoming more and more serious, especially the hazards of chemical contamination. Our study aims to determine the knowledge and practice in preventing chemical contamination of food of producers, traders, consumers and participants in food safety management in Lac Thuy district, Hoa Bình province. The results show that for producers and traders: 52.8% know that alkaline dyes are harmful to health, 13.3% know that there are substitutes for alkaline dyes. 17.1% of producers use food colorants in food processing and 81.6% of traders suspect that food has industrial colorants. For managers: 42.2% received training on food safety. The time of participating as an inspection collaborator was mainly from 1-5 years (58.5%). The tasks performed during the inspection were mainly assessment of sanitary conditions (47.1%) and assessment of raw materials and additives (30.4%). About consumers: 100% have heard of borax and food colorants, 93.3% and 94.6% think that if long-term consumption of food with industrial coloring, borax can cause chronic poisoning, 82.3% said that it is necessary to abolish the entire batch of goods if detecting food with industrial colorants, borax.  
First step in development and evaluation simultaneous determination of mycotoxins in cereals by liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry
Authors: Nguyen Huu Vinh , Nguyen Hong Thao , Nguyen Cong Tuan , Tran Vuong Duc Nghia , Ho Tran Ngoc Quyen , Nguyen Huu Tin , Nguyen Thanh Cong , Ngo Quoc Viet ,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam,   Quality Assurance and Testing Center 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam
Published: October 2022

Currently, solid phase extraction (SPE) with immunoaffinity columns is applied in most standardized methods for mycotoxin determination to purify extracts and analysis by HPLC-FLD, HPLC-UV/VIS or LC-MS/MS. Therefore, sample preparation and analysis by instruments are time-consuming and high operating costs. The novel method allow simultaneously identify nine mycotoxin compounds with selective, stable and accurate results. The new method has been evaluated through three stages including validation as requirements of CEN/TR 16059:2010 (phase 1), comparison with current standard methods (phase 2), evaluate the method using an interlaboratory comparison program (phase 3). Cereal samples were extracted by QuEChERS and analyzed by LC-MS/MS. The limit of quantitation (LOQ) was 0,5 μg/kg for each aflatoxin compound and 40 μg/kg, 25 μg/kg, 1 μg/kg, 75 μg/kg for deoxynivalenol, zearalenone, ochratoxin A, each toxin fumonisin (B1&B2), respectively. The recovery is in the range of 70-120%, relative standard deviation RSD < 20%. The novel method also gives the same results compared to the individual standardized methods, using the immunoaffinity column in the extraction stage. At the present, the method is being evaluated through an interlaboratory comparison program with two rounds: round 1 (for survey) and round 2 (official round), which is expected to be implemented in 2022.  
The situation assessment of Coliform, E. coli contamination in foods at charity kitchen in Thanh Hoa province and related factors
Authors: Le Hong Son , Do Kim Anh , Trinh Le Van ,   Food safety department of Thanh Hoa province, Thanh Hoa, Vietnam,   Food safety department of Thanh Hoa province, Thanh Hoa, Vietnam,   Food safety department of Thanh Hoa province, Thanh Hoa, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 54 samples of instant foods and 216 people (54 managers and 162 person who directly prepares food) at 54 charity kitchens in Thanh Hoa province. The study showed that 14.8% instant foods at 54 the charity kitchens were contaiminated (over the acceptibility limit) Coliform and E. coli; the percentage of food samples contaminated both Coliform and E. coli were 5.6%; only contaminated Coliform were 3.7% and only contaminated E. coli were 5.6%; 55.6% of the charity kitchens meet the requirements about food safety guarantee, in which 51.9% meet the premises conditions, 66.7% meet the equipment, tools, 59.3% meet the food preservation conditions, 70.4% meet the food processing ingredients and 42.6% meet legal records. The awareness rate of general knowledge and practice of food processing of managers and person who directly prepares food were 60.2% and 53.2%, respectively (which awareness rate of knowledge and practice of managers were 61.1% and 53.7%; person who directly prepares food were 59.9% and 53.1%). The relationship between general knowledge and practice of managers and person who directly prepares food, and relationship between condition for food safety guarantee and the percentage of food samples contaminated at charity kitchen there were statistical different (p < 0,01).  
Quality survey of some health supplements containing medicinal herbs tested in Ho Chi Minh in the period of 2015 - 2021
Authors: Phan Van Chung , Ngo Hoa Lu , Pham Thi Ngoc Nhung , Nguyen Thi Huynh Trang , Ha Minh Hien , Do Huu Tuan , Tran Viet Hung ,   HCMC Centre for the Quality Control of Food, Drug and Cosmetics, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   HCMC Centre for the Quality Control of Food, Drug and Cosmetics, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   HCMC Centre for the Quality Control of Food, Drug and Cosmetics, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   HCMC Centre for the Quality Control of Food, Drug and Cosmetics, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam,   Vietnam Food Administration, Hanoi, Vietnam,   Institute of Drug Quality Control Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

Many health supplements containing medicinal herbs such as Ginkgo biloba extract, Turmeric extract were tested for quality in Ho Chi Minh City in the period 2015-2021. Testing methods were non-pharmacopoeia methods that accredited methods by Bureau of Accreditation (BoA) or pharmacopoeia methods. The results showed that there were some samples did not meet the quality criteria such as qualitative, quantitative. The quality criteria for safety have been tested such as microbial limits test or the limit of preservatives, heavy metals, and determination of Aflatoxin.  
Survey on the level of Listeria monocytogenes infection on gotu kola and fresh gotu kola juice in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa province
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thanh Hai , Le Nha Uyen , Pham Thu Thuy ,   Institute of Biotechnology and Environment, Nha Trang University, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam,   Institute of Biotechnology and Environment, Nha Trang University, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam,   Institute of Biotechnology and Environment, Nha Trang University, Khanh Hoa, Vietnam
Published: October 2022

Gotu kola is often used to make fresh juice without heating. In Nha Trang, gotu kola drinks are usually prepared and refrigerated while being traded. Listeria monocytogenes is a bacterium capable of growing at cold temperatures; whereas the pathogenicity is low, mortality rate can be up to 25 - 30%. Therefore, the assessment of the level of L. monocytogenes contamination on raw gotu kola and in gotu kola juice during cold storage is crucial to ensure food safety and hygiene. This study has shown that the prevalence of L. monocytogenes infection on raw gotu kola cultivated in Nha Trang accounted for 15% of the samples with an average infection density of 24.2 MPN/g, in which gotu kola grown in wastewater field had the highest density of bacteria. Soaking raw vegetables in a solution of potassium permanganate 10 ppm/10 minutes has appeared to reduce the amount of L. monocytogenes by 56%. During the first 6 hours of storage, the amount of L. monocytogenes in gotu kola juice was stable at low level. After 24 hours of storage, the number of bacteria increased tenfold (on gotu kola juice without sugar) and twentyfold (on gotu kola juice with sugar) depending on storage temperature. Noticeably, the addition of sugar in gotu kola juice may have increased the growth of bacteria. Test results of forty-five samples of gotu kola juice sold on the streets of Nha Trang have revealed that the infection rate of L. monocytogenes was 6.67% and the average bacterial density was 5.43 MPN/mL. Thus, consumers need to pay attention to the origin and the manufacturing process of crude materials and should not use this herbal beverage from 6 hours after storage to reduce the possibility of disease caused by L. monocytogenes.