bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An ALMA 1.3 millimeter Search for Debris Disks around Solar-type Stars in the Pleiades
Authors: Sullivan Devin , Wilner David J. , Matrà Luca , Wyatt Mark C. , Andrews Sean M. , MacGregor Meredith A. , Matthews Brenda
Published: August 2022

Millimeter emission from debris disks around stars of different ages provides constraints on the collisional evolution of planetesimals. We present ALMA 1.3 millimeter observations of a sample of 76 Solar-type stars in the ∼115 Myr old Pleiades star cluster. These ALMA observations complement previous infrared observations of this sample by providing sensitivity to emission from circumstellar dust at lower temperatures, corresponding to debris at radii comparable to the Kuiper Belt and beyond. The observations obtain a beam size of 1.″5 (200 au) and a median rms noise of 54 μJy beam−1, which corresponds to a fractional luminosity L
dust/L
star ∼ 10−4 for 40 K dust for a typical star in the sample. The ALMA images show no significant detections of the targeted stars. We interpret these limits in the context of a steady-state collisional cascade model for debris disk evolution that provides a good description of observations of the field population near the Sun but is not well-calibrated on younger populations. The ALMA nondetections of the Pleiades systems are compatible with the disk flux predictions of this model. We find no high fractional luminosity outliers from these ALMA data that could be associated with enhanced collisions resulting from activity not accounted for by steady-state evolution. However, we note that two systems (H ii 1132 and HD 22680) show 24 μm excess much higher than the predictions of this model, perhaps due to unusually high dust production from dynamical events involving planets.
Foraging with MUSHROOMS: A Mixed-integer Linear Programming Scheduler for Multimessenger Target of Opportunity Searches with the Zwicky Transient Facility
Authors: Parazin B. , Coughlin Michael W. , Singer Leo P. , Gupta Vaidehi , Anand Shreya
Published: August 2022

Electromagnetic follow-up of gravitational-wave detections is very resource intensive, taking up hours of limited observation time on dozens of telescopes. Creating more efficient schedules for follow-up will lead to a commensurate increase in counterpart location efficiency without using more telescope time. Widely used in operations research and telescope scheduling, mixed-integer linear programming is a strong candidate to produce these higher-efficiency schedules, as it can make use of powerful commercial solvers that find globally optimal solutions to provided problems. We detail a new target-of-opportunity scheduling algorithm designed with Zwicky Transient Facility in mind that uses mixed-integer linear programming. We compare its performance to gwemopt, the tuned heuristic scheduler used by the Zwicky Transient Facility and other facilities during the third LIGO–Virgo gravitational-wave observing run. This new algorithm uses variable-length observing blocks to enforce cadence requirements and to ensure field observability, along with having a secondary optimization step to minimize slew time. We show that by employing a hybrid method utilizing both this scheduler and gwemopt, the previous scheduler used, in concert, we can achieve an average improvement in detection efficiency of 3%–11% over gwemopt alone for a simulated binary neutron star merger data set consistent with LIGO–Virgo’s third observing run, highlighting the potential of mixed-integer target of opportunity schedulers for future multimessenger follow-up surveys.
Magnetic Field Dropouts and Associated Plasma Wave Emission near the Electron Plasma Frequency at Switchback Boundaries as Observed by the Parker Solar Probe
Authors: Rasca Anthony P. , Farrell William M. , Whittlesey Phyllis L. , MacDowall Robert J. , Bale Stuart D. , Kasper Justin C.
Published: August 2022

The first solar encounters by the Parker Solar Probe revealed the magnetic field to be dominated by short field reversals in the radial direction, referred to as “switchbacks.” While radial velocity and proton temperature were shown to increase inside the switchbacks, ∣B∣ exhibits very brief dropouts only at the switchback boundaries. Brief intensifications in spectral density measurements near the electron plasma frequency, f
pe, were also observed at these boundaries, indicating the presence of plasma waves triggered by current systems in the form of electron beams. We perform a correlative study using observations from the Parker FIELDS Radio Frequency Spectrometer and Fluxgate Magnetometer to compare occurrences of spectral density intensifications at the electron plasma frequency (f
pe emissions) and ∣B∣ dropouts at switchback boundaries during Parker’s first and second solar encounters. We find that only a small fraction of minor ∣B∣ dropouts are associated with f
pe emissions. This fraction increases with ∣B∣ dropout size until all dropouts are associated with f
pe emissions. Brief spikes in the differential electron flux measured by the SWEAP Solar Probe Analyzer for Electron sensors also occur in conjunction with nearly all f
pe emissions. This suggests that in the presence of strong ∣B∣ dropouts, electron currents that create the perturbation in ∣B∣ along the boundaries are also stimulating plasma waves such as Langmuir waves.
Tobacco Consumption Among Young Population in Rural Indonesia: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Effendi Diyan Ermawan , Nugroho Arief Priyo , Handayani Sri , Novita Risqa , Purwoko Sidiq , Agustina Zulfa Auliyati
Published: August 2022

Introduction: Tobacco consumption among youths is increasing in Indonesia and other middle-income countries. In rural areas, its prevalence is even higher compared to urban settings. Understanding the extent and associated factors of tobacco consumption within this population is essential to inform the formulation of appropriate prevention and control strategies.
Aims: This study aims at analyzing the prevalence and associated factors of tobacco consumption among the young population living in rural Indonesia.
Methods: Data were obtained from Indonesia Family Life Survey wave 5 (IFLS-5). A total of 2,786 responses from respondents aged 15-24 years and living in rural areas were taken into analysis. Binary logistic regression was used to examine the association between tobacco consumption with the predictors.
Results: The prevalence of tobacco consumption among youths in rural Indonesia was 26.5%. Binary logistic regression discovered that factors significantly associated with tobacco consumption among young population were aged 20-24 years (AOR = 4.760, 95% CI: 3.557-6.368), less educated (AOR = 5.988, 95% CI: 3.193-11.229), being married (AOR = 2.484, 95% CI: 1.631- 3.782), and having smoking parent (AOR = 1.346, 95% CI: 1.016-1.783). Young males had a much higher tobacco use prevalence (57.1%). Whereas females had significant negative association with tobacco consumption (AOR = 0.001, 95% CI: 0.000-0.002).
Conclusion: A large portion of youth in rural Indonesia were identified to have tobacco-use behavior. Appropriate prevention and control strategies are needed to address the population groups identified in this study. Policymakers should anticipate challenges that may occur resulting from geographical and cultural differences.
Pulmonary Function Tests of Workers at the State Company of Petrochemicals Factory in Basrah City, South of Iraq
Authors: Sajid Azza , Radhi Abdulrutha Abdulhamid , Al-Hashimi Ali H.
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND: Workers who are exposed to chemical and physical elements at work on a regular or continuous basis are more likely to acquire various occupational diseases, particularly respiratory problems.

AIM: This observational study was carried out to determine the impact of exposure to specific industrial pollutants, such as petroleum products, on the pulmonary function tests of workers at a facility in Iraq’s south.

METHODS: The study involved two groups of people: Exposed workers (G1) and non-exposed workers (G2) (G2). Asthmatics, healthy smokers, and healthy nonsmokers were split into three subgroups. All individuals had their pulmonary function tests (PFTs) performed using a medical spirometer.

RESULTS: There were substantial decreases (p0.05) in PFTs of exposed workers, as well as a significant rise in estimated lung age. The effects of exposure were most noticeable in asthmatics and healthy smokers, while healthy nonsmokers were unaffected. In addition, the exposed group had a considerably higher percentage of obstructive and mixed respiratory illnesses.

CONCLUSION: Workplace exposure to some industrial compounds, such as petrochemical products, may impair PFTs, with the impairment being more pronounced in the presence of other risk factors such as smoking or asthma. Asthmatics and smokers should be cautioned against working in industrial settings for more than five years. In general, all workers should be aware of the risks of working at such a location for more than 5 years, and all workers should adhere to occupational safety regulations.
Seroprevalence Surgery of Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Antibodies Based on COVID-19 Vaccine Type in Academy Community, East Kalimantan, Indonesia
Authors: Paramita Swandari , Khotimah Siti , Marwan Marwan , Isnuwardhana Ronny , Fitriany Evi , Nufus A. Z. Syadza Zahratun
Published: August 2022

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY: The implementation of the vaccine on a large scale has almost reached all provinces in Indonesia. East Kalimantan, one of the provinces affected by COVID-19, has also implemented a vaccine program. Seroprevalence surveys are essential to describe the success of vaccine program based on antibody titre test.
AIM OF THE STUDY: This study aims to determine the anti-SARS-CoV-2 antibody titre value based on the type of vaccine received by the academic community in Samarinda, one of the cities most affected by COVID-19 in East Kalimantan.
METHODOLOGY: The study was population-based. The study sampled 100 people from the community. Participants must be in good health, aged 16-60, with a positive COVID-19 test, no comorbid illnesses or other chronic problems, no blood transfusions, and most importantly, have received the least initial dosage of immunization. The data will be analyzed using SPSS 26 and STATA 16. A normality test and Tobit regression test to determine the antibody distribution in each vaccine type. 
RESULTS: The results showed that Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine provided a significant (p=0.001) increase in antibody prediction of 1090 U/ml (95% CI: 764-1416), while Pfizer provided a significant (p=0.000) rise of 766 U/ml (95% CI: 307-1226).
CONCLUSION: According to the results of a seroprevalence survey conducted among the academic community in East Kalimantan, receivers of inactivated vaccinations outnumbered those of mRNA and vector-based vaccines. It can be determined that booster immunizations for students and academic staff are required to guard against COVID-19 infection. As boosters, both Moderna's COVID-19 Vaccine and Pfizer's COVID-19 Vaccine are strongly recommended.
Evaluation of Lung Cancer Incidence Dynamics in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Bazhanova Aliia , Akhunbaev Stalbek , Soodonbekov Enverbek , Nurtazinova Gaukhar , Telmanova Zhansaya , Igissinov Nurbek
Published: August 2022

Background: In 2020, more than half of all cases (59.6%) of lung cancer of both sexes and 61.9% of lung cancer deaths were registered in Asia. In Kyrgyzstan, lung cancer is the second most common cancer after stomach cancer (11.2% of all diagnosed malignancies).
Objective: The study is to conduct a component analysis of the dynamics of the incidence of lung cancer (LC) in Kyrgyzstan.
Methods: Primary data were for registered patients with LC (ICD 10 – C34) in the whole country during the period of 2010-2019. Evaluation of changes in LC incidence in the population of Kyrgyzstan was performed using component analysis according to the methodological recommendations.
Results: The study period, 4,931 new cases of LC were recorded. During the studied years an average age of patients with lung cancer was 61.4 years (95%CI=60.9-61.9). Age-related indicators of the incidence of LC had a peak in 65+ years in both sexes (84.9±3.20/0000), male (159.5±6.40/0000) and female (35.5±2.20/0000) population. Trends in the ASIR of LC in the entire population tended to decrease in all age groups. The incidence rate decreased from 8.00/0000 (2010) to 7.20/0000 in 2019 and the overall decline was −0.80/0000, including due to the age structure – ∑ΔA=+1.20/0000, due to the risk of acquiring illness – ∑ΔR=−1.80/0000 and their combined effect – ∑ΔAR=−0.20/0000. The component analysis revealed that the increase in the number of patients with LC was mainly due to the growth of the population (ΔP=+17.9%), changes in its age structure (ΔA=+15.4%).
Conclusion: In the Republic of Kyrgyzstan, the incidence of lung cancer is decreasing. According to the component analysis, in general, the increase in the number of patients was due to demographic factors, while the decrease in morbidity was influenced by a decrease in the risk of acquiring illness. The implementation of the results of this study is recommended in the management of anticancer measures for lung cancer.
Earliest fossil record of Corylophidae from Burmese amber and phylogeny of Corylophidae (Coleoptera: Coccinelloidea)
Authors: Li Yan-Da , Zhang Yu-Bo , Szawaryn Karol , Huang Di-Ying , Cai Chen-Yang
Published: August 2022

The family Corylophidae is a moderately diverse coccinelloid beetle family. The fossil record of corylophid beetles is extremely sparse, with only one species formally described from the Eocene Baltic amber. Here we report a new corylophid genus and species, Xenostanus jiangkuni Li, Szawaryn & Cai gen. et sp. nov., from mid-Cretaceous amber from northern Myanmar (ca. 99 Ma). Xenostanus is most distinctly characterized by the antenna with 10 antennomeres and the presence of metaventral and abdominal postcoxal lines. Our phylogenetic analysis suggested Xenostanus as sister to tribe Stanini. Based on its distinctive morphology and the phylogenetic results, Xenostanus is placed in the tribe Xeno﻿stanini Li, Szawaryn & Cai trib. nov.
Prevalence of chronic rhinosinusitis and its relating factors in patients with bronchiectasis: findings from KMBARC registry
Authors: Yu Iseul , Yong Suk Joong , Lee Won-Yeon , Kim Sang-Ha , Lee Hyun , Na Ju Ock , Kim Deog Kyeom , Oh Yeon-Mok , Lee Ji-Ho ,   on behalf of the KMBARC
Published: August 2022

Background/Aims: Patients with bronchiectasis often present with respiratory symptoms caused by chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS). However, studies on the prevalence of CRS and its relationship with bronchiectasis are limited.Methods: The baseline characteristics of patients with bronchiectasis recruited from the Korean Multicenter Bronchiectasis Audit and Research Collaboration were analyzed. CRS diagnosis was determined by a physician, on the basis of medical records, upper airway symptoms, and/or radiologic abnormalities. Questionnaires for quality of life, fatigue, and depression were administered when patients were stable for a minimum of 4 weeks after the bronchiectasis exacerbation.Results: The prevalence of CRS was 7.1% (66/931). Patients with CRS were significantly younger than those without CRS (60.5 ± 10.7 years vs. 64.6 ± 9.3 years, p = 0.001). Idiopathic bronchiectasis was more common in patients with CRS compared to those without CRS (53.0% vs. 36.0%, p = 0.006). Lung function, inflammatory markers, exacerbations, bronchiectasis severity, and scores for quality of life, fatigue, and depression did not differ between the two groups. In a logistic regression analysis, CRS was associated with age of bronchiectasis diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.94 to 0.99; p = 0.003) and idiopathic bronchiectasis (OR, 1.95; 95% CI, 1.12 to 3.34; p = 0.018).Conclusions: The prevalence of CRS was relatively low. CRS was not associated with the severity or clinical outcomes of bronchiectasis. Early diagnosis and idiopathic etiology were associated with CRS. Our findings reflect the low recognition of CRS in the clinical practice of bronchiectasis and highlight the need for awareness of CRS by adopting objective diagnostic criteria.
A survey of adaptive optimal control theory
Authors: Pei Xiaoxuan , Li Kewen , Li Yongming
Published: August 2022

This paper makes a survey about the recent development of optimal control based on adaptive dynamic programming (ADP). First of all, based on DP algorithm and reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm, the origin and development of the optimization idea and its application in the control field are introduced. The second part introduces achievements in the optimal control direction, then we classify and summarize the research results of optimization method, constraint problem, structure design in control algorithm and practical engineering process based on optimal control. Finally, the possible future research topics are discussed. Through a comprehensive and complete investigation of its application in many existing fields, this survey fully demonstrates that the optimal control algorithms via ADP with critic-actor neural network (NN) structure, which also have a broad application prospect, and some developed optimal control design algorithms have been applied to practical engineering fields.
Cardiac arrest due to coronary vasospasm after sugammadex administration -a case report-
Authors: Boo Ki Yung , Park Sang Hyun , Park Sun Kyung , Na Changrock , Kim Hyun Jung
Published: August 2022

Backgroud: Sugammadex is a widely used medication for the reversal of aminosteroid neuromuscular blockades. Although sugammadex is generally regarded to be safe, concerns about the risk of serious complications have emerged. Case: A 57-year-old man without a history of coronary disease was scheduled for general anesthesia to undergo cardiac radiofrequency catheter ablation due to symptomatic persistent atrial fibrillation and flutter. At the end of the procedure, he was given 400 mg of sugammadex. A little later, the electrocardiogram showed a sudden ST elevation on the inferior leads, followed by cardiac arrest. The urgent coronary angiography demonstrated total collapse of the right coronary artery. After two injections of intra-coronary nitroglycerin, the vasospasm of the right coronary artery was completely resolved. The patient recovered without sequelae and was discharged on postoperative day 5. Conclusions: Clinicians should pay close attention to the potential risk of coronary vasospasm, even cardiac arrest, after sugammadex administration.
FOXP4 promotes proliferation of human spermatogonial stem cells
Authors: Luo Shu-Wei , Tang Le , Zhou Dai , Bo Hao , Fan Li-Qing
Published: August 2022

Continuous self-renewal and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) is vital for maintenance of adult spermatogenesis. Although several spermatogonial stem cell regulators have been extensively investigated in rodents, regulatory mechanisms of human SSC self-renewal and differentiation have not been fully established. We analyzed single-cell sequencing data from the human testis and found that forkhead box P4 (FOXP4) expression gradually increased with development of SSCs. Further analysis of its expression patterns in human testicular tissues revealed that FOXP4 specifically marks a subset of spermatogonia with stem cell potential. Conditional inactivation of FOXP4 in human SSC lines suppressed SSC proliferation and significantly activated apoptosis. FOXP4 expressions were markedly suppressed in tissues with dysregulated spermatogenesis. These findings imply that FOXP4 is involved in human SSC proliferation, which will help elucidate on the mechanisms controlling the fate decisions in human SSCs.
Transcatheter management of proximal stent migration in coarctation of the aorta
Authors: Faim Diogo Remi Oliveira , Silva Patrícia Vaz , Francisco Andreia , Pires António
Published: August 2022

Proximal stent migration in setting of transcatheter management of coarctation of the aorta is a rare complication, which may require emergency surgery. Herein, we report a successful transcatheter management of proximal stent migration in a high surgical risk, a 14-year-old girl, which caused partial occlusion of both the descending aorta and the left subclavian artery.
Evaluation of patients for potential compression of anomalous coronaries coursing behind the aortic root before device closure of secundum atrial septal defects
Authors: Mumtaz Zeeshan Ahmed , Sivakumar Kothandam
Published: August 2022

Coronary arteries coursing behind the aortic root may get compressed when nitinol septal occluders are used to close an atrial septal defect. Hence, echocardiographic recognition of a retroaortic linear vessel is important during preinterventional evaluation. While the left circumflex arising from the right coronary artery is the most common cause, a similar finding is sometimes observed in a single left or right coronary artery and rarely with small sinus nodal branches from the left circumflex artery. Complex three-dimensional relations between the defect and the aortic root may be understood only after a postdeployment selective coronary angiography. Two patients with anomalous retroaortic left circumflex from the right coronary artery underwent uneventful device closure with clearly documented separation between the edges of the occluder and the anomalous vessel. Follow-up imaging and exercise testing confirmed the safety of the intervention. A selective postdeployment and postrelease coronary angiography are mandatory in every patient with retroaortic coronaries.
Midterm safety and outcome of balloon angioplasty of native aortic coarctation in neonates and young infants and initial experience of prepartial dilatation using high-pressure noncompliant balloon
Authors: Arora Harmeet Singh , Vidya PL , Ghosh Arijit Kumar , Mishra Satish Chandra , Shouche Sachin , Sethi Brijindera Singh , Mishra Satish Kumar , Nagi Gagandeep Singh
Published: August 2022

Background:

Balloon angioplasty (BA) for aortic coarctation in neonates and infants remains controversial due to high recurrence rate and vascular complications.

Aim:

This study aimed to determine the safety and outcome of percutaneous treatment of coarctation in neonates and infants and to share the initial experience of strategy of prepartial dilatation with high-pressure noncomplaint balloon before final targeted dilatation using low-pressure compliant balloon.

Materials and Methods:

Retrospective analysis of records of all neonates and infants aged <6 months who underwent BA either using only low-pressure balloon (Group A) or those with prepartial dilatation using high-pressure noncomplaint balloon followed by low-pressure compliant balloon (Group B) between July 2017 and February 2020 was performed. Demographic, clinical, echocardiographic, interventional, and follow-up data were collected for all.

Results:

A total of 51 patients (41.2% neonates) were included in the study. Median age was 1 month 14 days (60.8% girls) and mean weight was 3.6 ± 1.5 kg. The mean peak trans-coarctation gradient was 53 ± 12 (34–80) mmHg. The final pressure gradient dropped to <10 mmHg in all cases of Group B and only in 26.3% (5) patients of Group A (P < 0.001). Recoarctation rate was 25.5% (13) overall and was significantly higher in Group A patients (P < 0.001), in those with borderline/mildly hypoplastic arch (P = 0.04) and in those with postprocedure gradient between 10 and 20 mmHg (P = 0.02). Median time to re-coarctation was significantly delayed in Group B (P < 0.001). There were no major complications or mortality in either group.

Conclusions:

BA in neonates and young infants has an excellent short and mid-term safety and efficacy. The recoarctation rate is significantly reduced as well as delayed with prepartial dilatation using high-pressure noncompliant balloon.
Percutaneous transhepatic and transseptal dilatation of a surgically implanted Melody® Valve in the mitral position in a 2-year-old child
Authors: De La Torre Leticia Albert , Vázquez Belen Toral , Linde Dolores Herrera , Soto Alberto Mendoza , Torres Enrique García
Published: August 2022

The use of the Melody® (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) biological prosthesis in mitral position has shown acceptable short-term results. Furthermore, it allows its expansion with a balloon when the patient grows up, and this procedure can be performed by a venous catheterization through transseptal approach through an interatrial communication or puncturing the septum. Patients with complex congenital heart disease undergoing multiple surgical and percutaneous interventions may present with vascular complications such as thrombosis of the femoral venous system that make percutaneous access impossible. In this situation, the transhepatic approach is a very useful alternative to access the heart.
Transhepatic device closure of atrial septal defect in children associated with interrupted inferior vena cava
Authors: Dhulipudi Bhargavi , Bakhru Shweta , Singh Jagadeesh R. , Koneti Nageswara Rao
Published: August 2022

Percutaneous transcatheter closure of fossa ovalis atrial septal defect (FOASD) is an established procedure. When femoral venous approach is unfeasible due to interrupted inferior vena cava (IVC) or occluded femoral veins, other interventional methods through transjugular, transhepatic approach, or surgical closure can be performed. We report two cases of transhepatic device closure of FOASD associated with IVC interruption successfully performed without any complications.
Perception of Health Professionals and the General Population Regarding the Use of Antibiotics and Antibiotic Resistance in Puducherry, South India
Authors: Palanisamy Priyadharsini Raman , Ananthy Vimala , Subramanian Umamaheswari
Published: August 2022

Objective:

The present study aims to evaluate the awareness of a sample of the general population and health-care professionals regarding the use of antibiotics and antibiotic resistance and identify the factors associated with antibiotic resistance.

Methods:

This prospective questionnaire-based study was conducted for 3 months, from July to September 2020, in Karaikal, Puducherry (India). The health professionals included doctors in pre- and paraclinical teaching departments (those not involved in clinical practice), laboratory technicians, and PhD students pharmacists. The questionnaire had two parts which health professionals answered, whereas the general population answered only the second part.

Findings:

About 38.5% of the population reported using antibiotics frequently among the responses obtained. Around 66.5% of the general population usually stop the antibiotic within 1 or 2 days after they feel better, and 11% of the people believed that adding an extra antibiotic would make them better. Among the health professionals, more than 90% responded that self-medication is the major reason for antibiotic resistance and was unsure of the overprescription of antibiotics.

Conclusion:

The results show variable responses and suggest the need for intervention programs to increase the knowledge among the general population regarding the rational use of antibiotics.
A study of risk factors contributing to the occurrence of excess weight with concurrent stunting in preschool children in Egypt
Authors: Hammoda Amira B.F. , El Sallamy Rania M. , Atlam Salwa Abd-Elmagid , Alshishtawy Moeness M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Many low-income to middle-income countries are facing the dual burden of undernutrition combined with overnutrition. The legacy of malnutrition, especially among preschool children, is a huge obstacle to overall national development, so the ultimate aim for all children is to be free of malnutrition in all forms.

Aim

To assess the prevalence of concurrent stunting and overweight/obesity (OW/OB) among preschool children in Itay Albarud City, El Beheira Governorate, Egypt, and to reveal risk factors associated with the condition.

Patients and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 445 children aged less than 6 years in Itay Albarud, El Beheira, Egypt, during the academic year 2019/2020. Tools of the study were as follows: (a) a predesigned questionnaire containing sociodemographic data, feeding pattern, and health conditions of the child during infancy and childhood, and (b) weight and height measurement to calculate BMI for the child and parents.

Results

The prevalence of concurrent stunting and OW/OB was 2%. Concurrent stunting and OW/OB was more common in girls and children living in rural settlements (66.6%) than boys and urban ones (33.4%). Maternal age at child birth and nutritional status of mothers were also important factors contributing toward the condition.

Conclusion

This study showed a relatively high prevalence of concurrent stunting and OW/OB among preschool children (2%). Different factors seem to be predisposing to this problem, for example, sociodemographic factors, some acute and chronic diseases that affected the child, feeding pattern during infancy, and maternal nutritional status.
Magnitude and pattern of facility-based disrespect and abusive treatment of women during childbirth in Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: U. Kalu Kalu , U. Onyeonoro Ugochukwu , N. Nwamoh Uche , I. Amuzie Chidinma
Published: August 2022

Objectives: To ascertain the prevalence and pattern of reported facility-based disrespect and abuse of women during labour in Abia State, South-East, Nigeria.Design: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based studySetting: One urban and one rural healthcare facility in Abia State- Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia and Nigerian Christian Hospital (NCH) Nlagu, respectively.Participants: A total of 312 women who were recently delivered of their babies in the two facilities in Abia State and attending postnatal clinics were sampled for the survey.Main Outcome Measure: Disrespect and abuse D&A) during labour among women who give birth in healthcare facilities in Abia State.Result: In all, over half (54.5%) of the women experienced disrespect and abuse in Abia State (50% urban and 63.5% in rural areas). The commonest form of disrespect and abuse was non-confidential care (22.9%). The commonest disrespectful and abusive care received was lack of privacy in the labour ward (18.3%).Conclusion: The study recorded a high prevalence of reported facility-based disrespect and abuse of women during delivery in Abia State. Training and re- raining healthcare providers to promote respectful care, advocacy to policy makers and healthcare stakeholders on the development of respectful maternal care policies and further research in the area are needed.
Estimation of Load Behaviour, Insulation Capacity and Designing an Optimal Photovoltaic System for Residential Consumption
Authors: Ehi-Eremosele F. , Osadolor A. O.
Published: August 2022

Harvesting energy from renewable sources could assist carbon emission reduction, limiting global warming and mitigate the growing energy demand. The research was set out to estimate the load behaviour, insulation capacity and design an optimal photovoltaic (PV) system for residential consumption, and to carry out an environmental techno-economic analysis of the PV system using cash flow analysis and environmental impact analysis using standard methods. In this research, a Solar PV net capacity of 1,839 kWh was achieved for residential building with total energy consumption of 3258 kWatt-year and the remaining load generated from the grid, due to the limitation posed by roof space. The system was designed for optimal solar energy generation and economic performance such as capital cost, net present value, internal rate of return (considering fuel escalation) and the overall cash flow on investment was established. An estimate of CO2 emissions prevention was conducted to determine and evaluate the environmental impact of the system.  Result showed that investing in a renewable energy alternative such as Solar PV yields comparative economic benefit.
Sources and Functionality of Rural Water Supply in Communities from three Senatorial Zones of Imo State, Nigeria
Authors: Mbuka-Nwosu I. E. , Muoghalu L. N. , Okonkwo A. U.
Published: August 2022

Sustainability of domestic water access in communities is essential for good health, society’s dignity and progress. This study investigated the sources and functionality of rural water supply in nine communities of three local government area (LGA) in three senatorial zones of Imo State, Nigeria using structured questionnaires. The questionnaires were administered on 100 women in each community. Data obtained were analysed using multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) to reveal the frequency of using the various sources of rural water supply, and Wilcoxon’s test for matched pairs to reveal the functionality status of the most frequently used water source. The findings indicate the importance of borehole water facilities in these rural communities and the necessity for intervention programs to strengthen their functionality in tandem with the State’s aspirations in achieving sustainable development goals.
Isolation, Characterization and Heavy Metals Tolerance Indices of Indigenous Fungal Flora from a Tannery located at Challawa Industrial Estate of Kano State, Nigeria
Authors: Sule A. M. , Inuwa B. , Bello S. Z. , Gero M. , Mohammed H. A. , Muhammad Z. A.
Published: August 2022

Seven fungal species (Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus versicolor, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Rhizomucor pusillus, Trichophyton equinum and Rhizopus oryzae) were isolated from the tannery effluent collected at a tannery industry located at Challawa industrial estate of Kano State, Nigeria. Aspergillus niger had the highest percentage occurrence frequency of 36% (31) while Trichophyton equinum had the least percentage occurrence frequency of 4% (5). Consequently, Aspergillus niger recorded the highest mean tolerance indices of 1.175, 0.830, 0.580, 0.780 and 0.630 while Rhizomucor pusillus had the least of the tolerance indices of 0.675, 0.375, 0.346, 0.450 and 0.255 for chromium, cadmium, manganese and lead respectively. Accordingly, furthermore the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and biomass yield of the seven tested fungi isolates cultured in the presence of the five heavy metals used in this study showed different level of growth pattern. Hence the high resistant potentials and tolerance to the selected heavy metals exhibited by the fungal species isolated in this study is an indication that indigenous fungal floral isolated from tannery effluent if properly harnessed may offer a feasible solution to the serious environmental pollution problems associated with the presence of heavy metals in tannery effluent.
Neutral Effect of Coffee Senna (Senna occidentalis (L.) Link Leguminosae) Leaf Ethanol Extract on Reproductive Parameters in Male Wistar Rats
Authors: Alade G. O. , Ugwudike P. C. , Alade T. O. , Ajibesin K. K.
Published: August 2022

Many antimalarial remedies are known for reproductive toxicity in male. Also, several plants are known to have antifertility action in both sexes. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of ethanol extract of Senna occidentalis (L.) Link Leguminosae leaf (EESO) on male reproductive parameters such as sperm count, motility, morphology and the histology of testes in Wistar rats by employing standard procedures. The extract (50% ethanol) was orally administered to male Wistar rats daily, at 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg with distilled water as control, for 20 days after which reproductive parameters were performed on the epididymal sperm and testes. The results show that all features were consistent with normal histology of the testes in the treated and untreated groups, the sperm count (SC), motility (SM) and morphology (MP) were also comparable with the control. The plant has been shown to be devoid of the traditional sperm toxicity associated with antimalarial agents.
Physicochemical Analysis of Potable Water in Baham Community, Western Region of Cameroon
Authors: Akaho A. A. , Tikeri G. B. , David A. O.
Published: August 2022

Safe and easily accessible water is important for community health. This paper presents the physicochemical analysis of water in Baham community, western region of Cameroon by collecting water samples from boreholes, well and stream. Physiochemical analysis using gravimetric and titrimetric methods were carried out on the collected samples and they were analysed based on their temperature, pH, colour, odour, total dissolved solid (TDS) and total suspended solid (TSS), sulphate, lead and chloride concentration as well as acidity and alkalinity. The results showed low pH values between 5.39 and 6.11 for all samples, an average temperature of 20°C, agreeable colour and odour for all samples but for the stream, which had colour, odour, very low TDS between 10-20 mg/l, TSS between 10 and 50 mg/l, acceptable for all but the stream and well samples which had a concentration of 30mg/l and 50mg/l respectively, very low chloride concentration level of 8-23 mg/l compared to WHO’s recommended 250 mg/l, very high sulphate contents of 246.9-493.8 mg/l and lead concentrations of 0.27-0.30 mg/l which is about 5 times the recommended 0.05 mg/l WHO permissible limit. The results showed high acidity (60-110 mg/l) and alkalinity (50-150 mg/l) values which fall within acceptable limits. From the results above, it was concluded that the quality of water in Baham is not fit for consumption according to WHO standards. It is acidic, lacks essential minerals, not properly disinfected and has disturbingly high lead concentrations.
Effect of Thermal Treatment on Chemical, Biological and Mechanical Properties of African Whitewood (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. SCHUM)
Authors: Adebawo F. G. , Adegoke O. A. , Adelusi E. A. , Adekunle E. A. , Odeyale O. C.
Published: August 2022

The thermal modification of wood is a potential alternative method for improving wood properties. This paper evaluates the effect of thermal treatment on the chemical, biological and mechanical properties of African Whitewood (Triplochiton scleroxylon K. Schum) by subjecting the wood to three temperature (200, 170, 140 ℃) at three different time (3, 6, 12 h). Fourier Transformed infrared (FT-IR) spectrometer was used to ascertain the effect of heat treatment on the chemical constituent of the wood while mechanical properties were determined by Modulus of Elasticity (MOE) and Modulus of Rupture (MOR). Durability of heat-treated wood against subterranean termites using field test was also investigated.  FTIR results provided information on the chemical constituents after heat treatment revealing the cellulose and hemicelluloses of Triplochiton scleroxylon wood samples. The decreasing intensity of hydroxyl groups stretching at 3341 cm-1 indicated that heat-treated samples have lost some of their hydroxyl groups. The results showed that the MOR of heated-treated wood at 200 ℃ was significantly higher than the untreated samples. There was also a 26% increase in the MOE of the 170 ℃ heat-treated wood relative to untreated samples. Wood samples thermally treated at 170 ℃ and 200 ℃ as well as untreated wood samples were strongly degraded in term of weight loss (WL) by termite though the degree of degradation varied based on temperature and time in which the wood was modified. However, heat-treated wood at 140 ℃ gave the lowest WL of 20.41% compared to other treated and untreated wood samples. Therefore, strength properties and termites’ resistance of African whitewood also known as Obeche wood in Nigeria could be improved when thermally modified at 170 ℃ and 140 ℃ respectively.
Prevalence of Intestinal Parasites among Tuberculosis and Non-Tuberculosis Patients Attending Hospitals in Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Akoko J. S. , Chessed G.
Published: August 2022

Tuberculosis and intestinal parasites are mostly affecting poor people. They are in a vicious cycle since one is the risk factor for the other. A hospital based cross-sectional study was carried out on the prevalence and co-infection of intestinal parasites on tuberculosis and non-tuberculosis patients in Specialist Hospital, Jimeta and Federal Medical Centre, Yola, between April-July, 2021. Demographic data was collected using structured questionnaire, while stool samples was collected and processed using wet mount and formol ether concentration technique for the detection of intestinal parasites. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 26.0 software packages. Chi-squared test at 95% level of significance was used to measure the strength of an association. Out of the 250 participants, 150 (60%) had tuberculosis, while 100 (40%) were non-TB patients. A total of 34 (13.6%) were infected with intestinal parasites: 8.4% of TB patients and 5.2% of non-TB patients were positive for intestinal parasites. There was no statistically significant difference in the prevalence of infection between the patient’s (p>0.05). Ascaris lumbricoides was the highest occurring parasite (4.4%), followed by Schistosoma mansoni and Entamoeba histolytica, both having a prevalence of 2.8% each, Hymenolepsis nana (2.0%), Trichomonas hominis (1.2%) and  Entamoeba coli being the least with a prevalence of 0.4%. Age related infection showed that the 21-30 year old had the highest prevalence of infection (4.0%) with the least among the 11-20 year old age group (0.4%). There was a statistically significant difference in the association between the age groups and infection (p<0.05). Males had the higher prevalence of infection (8.4%) compared to their female counterpart (5.2%), there was no statistically significant difference in the association between infection and gender (p>0.05). With respect to patient’s occupation and level of education, those with tertiary education and farmers had the highest prevalence (6.0%, 5.9%), respectively. The prevalence of intestinal parasites was higher in persons with tuberculosis, and there was evidence that tuberculosis increased susceptibility to intestinal parasites in this study. Though the prevalence in this study is low, the lack of knowledge of the mode of transmission of these parasite can lead to further infection of both those already infected and those not infected.
Analiza wskaźnikowa oraz szacowanie kosztów absencji spowodowanej chorobą własną pacjenta
Authors: Mach Łukasz , Madera Dariusz , Kochańczyk Rafał
Published: August 2022

Przeprowadzone badania pozwoliły na obliczenie indeksu godzinowej absencji, średniego czasu niezdolności do pracy, wskaźnika Bradforda oraz kosztów utraty produktywności związanych z absencją. Analiza została przeprowadzona w wybranych kryteriach podziału, do których zaliczono: wiek i płeć pacjenta, województwo, w którym mieszka, oraz jednostkę chorobową, na podstawie której został wystawiony druk e-ZLA. Badania zostały przeprowadzone dla 2020 roku z uwagi na fakt, że rok ten jest pełnym rokiem pandemicznym, a identyfikacja i analiza absencji chorobowej w sytuacjach nietypowych, niepewnych, nieprzewidywalnych jest niezwykle ważna dla utrzymania i rozwoju pozycji konkurencyjnej przedsiębiorstwa oraz dla prowadzenia zrównoważonej polityki w obszarze ubezpieczeń zdrowotnych i społecznych.

Ratio analysis and cost estimation of absenteeism due to a patient’s own illness
The study calculated an index of hourly absenteeism, average time spent absent from work, the Bradford index, and costs of lost productivity associated with absenteeism. The analysis was carried out on the basis of selected division criteria, which included: the patient’s age and gender, the province in which the patient lives, and the disease unit on the basis of which the e-ZLA form was issued. The research was conducted for the year 2020, due to the fact that it was a full pandemic year and because the identification and analysis of sickness absenteeism in unusual, uncertain, and unpredictable situations is extremely important for maintaining and developing the competitive position of companies and for maintaining a sustainable policy in the sphere of health and social insurance.
Reforming Techniques to Combat Organized Crime in the Context in View of Securing Human Rights and Freedoms
Authors: Khobbi Yuliya , Storozhuk Iryna , Svoboda Ivo , Kuzmenko Serhii , Tymchyshyn Andriy
Published: August 2022

The aim of this research was to detect shortcomings and provide suggestions for the development of new strategic directions in order to make combating organized crime more effective for providing security and comprehensive protection of human rights and freedoms. This aim was achieved through the methods of descriptive statistics, comparison and contrasting, descriptive analysis, pragmatic approach, forecasting. The main strategic directions of reforming measures to combat organized crime include: cooperation between government agencies, in particular, cooperation between government agencies and community representatives; destruction of the economic component of organized crime, criminal markets and criminal links between different types of criminal activities; providing proper level of education and digital literacy of law enforcement and other agencies; involving digital technologies and research findings in combating organized crime; creation of an appropriate national and international legal framework; securing the rights and freedoms of suspects or the accused; establishment and development of international cooperation to combat organized crime. This study is not comprehensive, thus opening up prospects for further research on improving the legal framework and the practical implementation of its provisions in combating cross-border and national organized crime.
Formation of Social Ukraine’s Policy on the Principles of Social Governance in EU Countries
Authors: Sulieimanova Liia F. , Bohdan Yuliia V. , Deliia Oksana V. , Bilousov Yevhen M. , Pavlyuk Tatiana I.
Published: August 2022

The purpose of this article was to identify the characteristics of the development of Ukraine’s social policy in the context of integration into EU standards. The historical method was used to perform analysis of documentary sources in the temporal context and to investigate the genesis of the introduction of social policy and trends towards its further development with Europe. The legal method was also used to investigate Ukrainian and EU legislation and its application in the social field, in order to investigate its gaps, as well as its influence on integration processes. By way of conclusion, it was determined that the processes of European integration and, more precisely, the adaptation of Ukrainian legislation to EU standards in the social field played an important role in the development of the country’s social policy. At the same time, there were differences in terminological approaches to key categories of the legislative systems of Ukraine and the EU, as well as in separate areas of social policy.
Investigation and justice of crimes committed under war conditions in Ukraine
Authors: Ortynska Nataliya , Baranyak Volodymyr , Tsyliuryk Inna , Koniushenko Yana , Krasyuk Ihor
Published: August 2022

The purpose of the article is to review the topic of investigation and administration of justice in relation to crimes committed during the war in Ukraine, as one of the important elements of transitional justice. The authors focus on the possibility of applying the concept of post-conflict solution in Ukraine after the end of hostilities provoked by armed aggression. The article draws attention to the fact that in order to counter these crimes it must be necessary: to develop effective mechanisms and establish communication within universal jurisdiction with other countries that have experience in investigating Russian military aggressions; extensive use of the capabilities of the International Commission on Human Rights established by the UN Human Rights Council to investigate war crimes committed by the aggressor’s armed forces and violations of international humanitarian law, the prepared evidence of which can be used in all international and national jurisdictions. It is concluded that it is urgent to borrow positive international experience in the standardization of current national legislation, aimed at optimizing the process of documentation and investigation of crimes against humanity, bringing the perpetrators to justice.