Microsoft Excel Research Articles

Excel as an optimization tool applied to multicomponent distillation column sizing

The unit operation of distillation is a method of significant importance for industrial separation processes, as it enables the fractionation of a mixture based on the differences in volatility among its components. Considering that a typical initial mixture generally contains three or more products of interest, studies aimed at optimizing multicomponent distillation, although scarce in the literature, are increasingly imperative to ensure efficiency and reduce operational and energy costs associated with the process. Since sizing multicomponent distillation columns using the Fenske-Underwood and Gilliland (FUG) and Kirkbride methods involves extensive and complex calculations to obtain operational parameters, the objective of this study was to develop a computational method using Microsoft Excel® software to make them more practical and enhance the accuracy of the results obtained. The functionality of the developed spreadsheet was verified through the resolution of an example of application, both manually and electronically. In both cases, the results obtained were identical, but with significantly lower time consumption and probability of error by the electronic method, demonstrating its potential for use in academic and industrial settings.

Research on internet of things (IoT) indexed in Web of Science from 2011–2022

Academic publications have increased geometrically in the rapidly developing field of Internet of Things (IoT). Using the keywords “Internet of Things” in titles and abstracts, a large collection of scientific publications from 2011 to 2022 that were indexed in the Web of Science were examined in this study. Several software tools, including VOSviewer, ScientoPy, Biblioshiny and MS Excel, were used to analyze the data. According to the study's findings, the majority of publications in the field of IoT are written in English, and publications in this area are steadily rising. Rodrigues, Joel J. P. C. is the most prolific author. The most productive nation was found to be China, the Beijing University Posts & Telecommunication, a thriving institution. After the US and India, China has produced the greatest number of articles and received the greatest number of citations. The IEEE was found to be the most prolific publishing source, and the IEEE Internet of Things Journal was the most productive journal.

Socio-Demographic and Clinical Profile of Patients Attending Geriatric Clinic Over Five Years: A Retrospective, Hospital Based Study

Background: Population ageing is an inescapable and irreversible phenomenon, increasing the burden on the health care system. Mental illnesses in the geriatric population are unique and identification of the same amidst the co-morbidities is a challenging task. Objectives: To assess the difference in the clinical and sociodemographic profile of patients attending Geriatric Clinic in a tertiary care centre over five years. Materials and Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients, who attended the Geriatric Clinic of a tertiary care centre in 2012 and 2016 was conducted. The psychiatric diagnoses were made according to the ICD-10 diagnostic guidelines. Sociodemographic variables and clinical variables including social support were assessed. Data were analysed by Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) 16 version and Microsoft Excel Version 2007. Results: The total number of patients attending Geriatric clinics were 31 and 147 in 2012 and 2016 respectively. The mean age of patients attending the geriatric clinic was 74.32±7.89 in 2012 and 71.88±6.76 in 2012. The difference between the study group was statistically significant with regard to religion, marital status, socio-economic status and location of residence.64.52% of the study population had average social support in 2012 and a statistically significant decline was noticed in 2016.The most common psychiatric diagnoses were organic mental disorders (93.55%) in 2012 and mood disorders (40.82%) in 2016. Cardiovascular diseases were most common medical co-morbidity seen among the geriatric patients in both the years. Conclusions: Psychiatric illness in geriatric population is often associated with medical co-morbidities. With the increase in longevity, awareness and identification of symptoms can decrease significant morbidity and improve the quality of life. Keywords: Ageing, psychiatric disorders, medical comorbidity

Evaluation of the immune system status and hematological dyscrasias, among amphetamine and cannabis abusers at Eradah Hospital in Qassim, Saudi Arabia

This cross-sectional study aims to evaluate the immune system status and hematological disturbances among individuals who abuse amphetamines and cannabis. Substance abuse, particularly of amphetamines and cannabis, has been associated with various adverse effects on the body, including potential impacts on the immune system and hematological parameters. However, limited research has been conducted to comprehensively assess these effects in a cross-sectional design. Additionally, fungal infections are on the rise internationally, and immune-compromised people are particularly susceptible. The study will recruit a sample of amphetamine and cannabis abusers (n = 50) at the Eradah Hospital in the Qassim Region of Buraydah and assess their sociodemographic and biochemical variables, including blood indices and differential WBC indices, liver, and kidney profiles. Additionally, 50 sputum samples in total were cultured for testing for fungus infections. To obtain the descriptive statistics, the data was imported into Microsoft Excel and subjected to statistical analysis using SPSS 22.0. Amphetamine and cannabis abuser's sociodemographic variables analysis observed that the majority (52%) were aged 18–30, with 56% in secondary school. Unemployment was a significant issue, and most had no other health issues. The majority (50%) had 5–10 years of abuse, while 32% had less than 5 years, and only 18% had been drug abusers for more than 10 years. There were significant changes (p < 0.001) in all different leukocyte blood cells, including neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils. Furthermore, a microscopic examination of blood films from individuals who misuse the combination of the medications "amphetamine and cannabis" reveals hazardous alterations in Neutrophils. Out of 50, 35 sputum samples showed positive growth on Sabouraud dextrose agar (SDA) with chloramphenicol antibiotic, indicating a unicellular fungal growth. The present study explores the immune system and hematological disturbances linked to amphetamine and cannabis abuse, providing insights into health risks and targeted interventions. The findings complement previous research on drug users' hematological abnormalities, particularly in white blood cells. Routine hematological tests help identify alterations in homeostatic conditions, improving patient knowledge and preventing major issues. Further research is needed on multi-drug abuse prevention, early detection, and intervention. The cross-sectional design allows for a snapshot of the immune system and hematological status among abusers, laying the groundwork for future longitudinal studies. Key Words: Drug Effect, Immunity, Epidemiology, Oxidative Stress, Inflammation.

Factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers: A systematic review.

Workers in the construction industry frequently work in construction sites with numerous areas that can potentially accumulate water, such as tanks, wet cement surfaces, or water puddles. These water collection sites become ideal breeding grounds for mosquito infestation, which leads to a higher prevalence of mosquito-borne diseases, especially malaria and dengue among construction workers. Despite that numerous factors have been identified in controlling vector-borne diseases, the specific factors that influence mosquito control at construction sites have yet to be explored. This systematic review aims to determine the factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers. Primarily, articles related to factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers were collected from two different online databases (ScienceDirect and EBSCOhost). Two independent reviewers were assigned to screen the titles and abstracts of the collected data, stored in Microsoft Excel, against the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Afterwards, the quality of the included articles was critically assessed using the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Of the 171 articles identified, 4 were included in the final review. Based on the thorough evaluation, mosquito-related knowledge, practical mosquito prevention measures, and Larval Source Management (LSM) were identified as vital factors associated with mosquito control among construction workers. The significant association between mosquito-related knowledge and control practices indicates higher knowledge linked to effective practices, particularly among female workers and those who were recently infected with malaria. Concurrently, there were notable challenges regarding sustainable preventive measures and larval control methods in construction settings. Implementing effective mosquito control, including knowledge and practice on mosquito control together with vector control, is highly required to suppress the expanding mosquito population. It is recommended that employers provide continuous mosquito control education and training to their employees and reward them with incentives, while employees should comply with the guidelines set by their employers to ensure successful mosquito control and reduce the spread of mosquito-borne diseases in the construction industry.

Clinicopathological Evaluation of Thyroid Dysfunction in Women with Abnormal Uterine Bleeding

Introduction: Abnormal uterine bleeding describes any variation from normal bleeding patterns in nonpregnant, reproductive-aged women beyond menarche lasting for at least 6 months. Regular cyclic menstruation results the choreographed relationship between the endometrium and its regulating factors. Any type of disturbance between the regulatory mechanism of pituitary ovarian axis or pelvic diseases results in abnormal uterine bleeding. Thyroid hormones play a key role in the menstrual and reproductive function of women. It is recognized universally that menstrual disturbances may accompany clinical alterations in thyroid function. Objectives: To evaluate the thyroid dysfunction in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study was conducted in Department of obstetrics &amp; gynaecology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU), Shahbag, Dhaka from April 2023 to December 2023. Women with abnormal uterine bleeding were included in the study. Sample was selected by purposive sampling. Sample size was 100. Detail demographic data were collected from the informant and recorded in structured case report form. Clinical examination and relevant investigation were done meticulously. Data was collected by using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data was processed and analysed with the help of computer program SPSS and Microsoft excel. Quantitative data expressed as mean and standard deviation and qualitative data as frequency and percentage. Result was presented in the form of tables, pie chart, graphs, bar diagrams, histogram &amp; charts etc. Results: In this study, the maximum numbers of cases (43.0%) were between 26-35 years age group. Mean age was 29.57 ± 8.27 years. Large numbers of respondents came from urban area (58%). On evaluation of types &amp; causes of AUB, maximum patient belongs to AUB-L (leiomyoma) group (53%) followed by AUB-A (adenomyosis) (28%); AUB-P (polyp) (8%); AUB-O (ovulatory) (9%) and AUB-M (malignancy) (2%). Present study showed that prevalence of thyroid disorders is 26% in AUB patients. The prevalence of Hypothyroidism was 18% and Hyperthyroidism was 8%. Thyroid dysfunction is associated with menstrual abnormalities in females of all age groups. Conclusion: Abnormal uterine bleeding has a strong association with thyroid disorders. The most common type of disorder is subclinical hypothyroidism. Thus, all patient of AUB must be evaluated for thyroid dysfunction. Medicine Today 2023 Vol.36 (1): 1-6

Evaluation of Knowledge among Nurses about Pressure Ulcer in a Tertiary Care Hospital, Lahore

Background: Pressure ulcers are a prevalent issue in healthcare settings, leading to significant morbidity and increased healthcare costs. Nurses play a crucial role in the prevention and management of these conditions, yet gaps in knowledge can affect patient outcomes. The study aimed to assess the knowledge of nurses at a tertiary care hospital in Lahore, Pakistan, a setting where pressure ulcer management is critical yet understudied. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the current level of knowledge among nurses regarding pressure ulcer prevention and management, and to identify any significant differences in knowledge across various critical care settings within the hospital. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted at Shalamar Hospital, Lahore, involving 125 staff nurses and nursing interns selected via simple random sampling. Participants were required to have at least six months of experience in general wards. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire, assessing knowledge of pressure ulcer management. Ethical approval was obtained from the Shalamar College of Nursing's ethical committee. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25 and Microsoft Excel, applying descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Chi-square test, with a significance level set at p&lt;0.05. Results: The study revealed that 68.8% (86/125) of nurses had average knowledge, 29.6% (37/125) demonstrated good knowledge, and only 1.6% (2/125) exhibited poor knowledge regarding pressure ulcer management. Notably, nurses in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) and High Dependency Unit (HDU) displayed the highest levels of knowledge, whereas those in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), Cardiac Care Unit (CCU), and Emergency Room (ER) had comparatively lower knowledge levels. Conclusion: The majority of nurses at Shalamar Hospital possessed an average level of knowledge concerning pressure ulcer management. There is a critical need for targeted educational interventions to enhance knowledge and practices, particularly in units where nurses showed lower knowledge levels. Improving nurse education in pressure ulcer management could significantly impact the quality of patient care and reduce the prevalence of these injuries.

DEVELOPMENT OF THE DERMAL EFFECT OF PESTICIDES ON PROFESSIONAL CONTINGENTS USING INNOVATIVE 3RIVE 3D TECHNOLOGY

The skin is the most vulnerable organ when spraying pesticides on fields. Farmers are also exposed to pesticides during mixing, loading of pesticides, and when cleaning equipment and disposing of empty containers. The aim. To study and analyze the features of the risk of pesticides dermal exposure to professional contingents during treatments using the innovative 3RIVE 3D pesticide application technology. Materials and methods. The 3RIVE 3D innovative technological system of introducing was used to applicate Brigade 3Rive 3D, SC formulation. Field experiments on the study of working conditions when using the pesticide were conducted in various soil and climatic regions of Eastern Europe. Statistical processing of the results was carried out using a package of licensed statistical programs IBM SPSS StatisticsBase v.22 and MS Excel. Research results and discussion. During the conducted research, no bifenthrin contamination was found on the open skin of the operator and the tractor driver, who were processing corn crops with the Brigade 3Rive 3D, SC formulation. However, the operator's gloves were found to contain 0.025 mg of bifenthrin. Calculation of the unitless CASd value on the possibility of skin acute effects when applying the formulation showed that bifenthrin and the Brigade 3Rive 3D, SC formulation based on it are characterized by sufficient selectivity of action on the target object (CASd – 645 and 162, respectively, i.e. &gt; 100) and a low level of danger acute dermal toxic effects for workers, which is due to low values of effective consumption rates. The real dermal risk of bifenthrin exposure when using the Brigade 3Rive3D, SC formulation was significantly lower compared to the risk of workers involved in “traditional” air treatment and treatment with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) (p=0.009-0.048 according to Wilcoxon's W-criterion); in comparison with rod and fan processing – it is non-significantly lower (р=0.262-1.000). There was a similar picture in comparison with the dermal aggravated risk – significantly lower in comparison with the risk of workers involved in “traditional” air treatment and processing with the help of UAVs (p=0.009 according to Wilcoxon's W-criterion); in comparison with rod and fan treatment – non-significantly lower (р=0.262-1.000). Conclusion. It was established that the studied active substance bifenthrin and the Brigade 3Rive 3D, SC formulation based on it are characterized by sufficient selectivity of dermal action on the target object and a low probability of acute dermal effects. A higher probability of acute inhalation poisoning than dermal exposure was revealed.

Needs Analysis of English Skills for Logistics Business Among Thai University Students

Logistics plays a vital role in driving the global economy forward. Within this profession, English serves as the primary means of communication. However, not all logistics personnel, especially those for whom English is a second language, find it easy to use. The aim of this research is to conduct a needs analysis for English skills in the logistics industry. A questionnaire was distributed to 156 Thai logistics management students and employed Google Forms together with Microsoft Excel for quantitative analysis. The findings revealed the following: 1) The four core skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) and vocabulary were reported extremely important, while grammar was rated as important. 2) The most frequently utilized English skill was reading, the skill most desired to improve was speaking, the skill that lacked the most was grammar, and the skill requiring the greatest development in their future were reading, listening, speaking, and writing, respectively. The implications of this study are significant for the development of English for Specific Purposes (ESP) courses.

Anthropometric and Physical Attribute Profile for Elite Female Ice Hockey Players in China

The performance of ice hockey players is greatly influenced by their physical fitness and strength. This study set out to use various parameters to measure the physical strength of a player. The parameters include body mass (kilograms), height (centimeters), 30 m sprinting, vertical jump (centimeters), standing long jump (centimeters), 1 RM back squat (kilograms), 1 RM bench press (kilograms), pull-ups, 3 km running and body composition. The performance of a sample of 31 ice hockey players from China on the mentioned parameters was compared to the world’s top performers in ice hockey games, USA, and it was realized that players with generally lower scores on the factors tend to perform dismally in the game. China has been behind the USA in the world’s rankings, and their performances were generally lower compared to their US counterparts. Data was collected by trained experts and analyzed through Microsoft Excel software. The information from this research is basically an eye-opener to the Chinese female ice hockey stakeholders, including players, coaches, and medical personnel, on the areas that need attention to maintain world-class performances.

Innovation and Family Business in the Digital Age: A Systematic Literature Review

Objective: Identify the factors, characteristics, strengths, challenges, and opportunities that are required in family businesses (FB) to face innovation in the digital age. Theoretical Framework: Reviewed information on the development of family businesses in the digital age and the needs for innovation. Method: An exploratory study was carried out, for the analysis and selection of information, the PRISMA method and hermeneutics were used; In addition, publications from the last five years (2019-2023) from repositories such as Web of Science, Scopus, ScienceDirect, among others, were included. Likewise, the review of 55 scientific articles has been systematized using MS Excel software. Results and discussion: The factors were trends, consumer preferences, increasing competition, internal competencies and business model knowledge. Characteristics highlighted were transgenerational entrepreneurship, values and new forms of digital integration at kinship and genealogy level. Strengths were the ethical attitude, trust, identification and involvement of family management. Challenges were the digitalization of companies, the use of ICT, unlocking the conservative mentality and the defamiliarization of the company. Research Implications: It demonstrates the need to include FBs in the economic theory for study, as well as the consideration of practical specificities for their sustainable development. Originality/value: This study contributes to the literature to proceed with the innovation of a family business in the digital age, considering factors, characteristics, strengths, challenges and opportunities within an innovation ecosystem.

Utility of a multiplex pathogen detection system directly from respiratory specimens for treatment and diagnostic stewardship.

The availability of syndrome-based panels for various ailments has widened the scope of diagnostics in many clinical settings. These panels can detect a multitude of pathogens responsible for a particular condition, which can lead to a timely diagnosis and better treatment outcomes. In contrast to traditional identification methods based on pathogen growth on culture, syndrome-based panels offer a quicker diagnosis, which can be especially beneficial in situations requiring urgent care, such as intensive care units. One such panel is the Biofire Filmarray Pneumonia plus Panel (BFP), which we have compared against microbiological culture and identification. The lower respiratory samples from patients were tested with BFP, culture, and identification with culture considered the gold standard. The phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility results (Vitek 2) were compared with the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes detected in BFP. Statistical analysis was carried out using GraphPad 7.0 and MS Excel (Microsoft Inc.). The results showed a positive percent agreement of 100% and a negative percent agreement of 47.8% with an overall agreement of 76.72% compared to culture. BFP was better at identifying fastidious bacteria, and the agreement with culture was higher for high bacterial identification numbers (107 and 106). There was also a correlation between the number of pathogens detected and growth in culture. Carbapenemase genes were detected in around 80% of phenotypically resistant samples and correlated with in-house PCR 60% of the time. Hence, BFP results need to be interpreted with caution especially when multiple pathogens are detected. Similarly, the presence or absence of AMR genes should be used to guide the therapy while being watchful of unusual resistance or susceptibility. The cost constraints and low throughput call for patient selection criteria and prioritization in emergency or resource-limited conditions.IMPORTANCEApplication of syndrome-based panels in clinical microbiology is of huge support in infectious conditions requiring urgent interventions, such as pneumonia. Interpreting the results requires caution; hence, we have compared the results obtained from Biofire Filmarray Pneumonia plus Panel with standard microbiological methods.

Determinants of Parental Attitudes towards Children’s Vaccination in Lithuania: An Online Survey

Background: Data from recent years show that the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly reduced the scope of child immunisation worldwide. If the numbers continue to fall, we may have a vaccination crisis. In order to understand the local factors of this phenomenon, we studied parents‘ viewpoint towards childhood vaccination in Lithuania. Therefore, the aim of our study was to determine the impact of parental attitudes on children’s vaccination.Materials and Methods: A web-based cross-sectional study was made in Lithuania from October 20th to November 3rd, 2020, using Google Forms. An anonymous questionnaire included both quantitative and qualitative questions. The questionnaire was distributed to the general population in Lithuania via social media and a snowball sampling. Only parents who have at least one child under 18 years old were involved in the study. We analysed the parents’ attitudes towards vaccination by their socioeconomic and demographic determinants using MS Excel and OpenEpi tools. The respondents were considered vaccine supporters if they vaccinated all their children with state-reimbursed vaccines or only vaccinated some of their children, and vaccine sceptics if they did not vaccinate their children with state-reimbursed vaccines.Results: The population of our research consisted of 775 parents. There were more males against vaccination than females, respectively, 59.6% and 33.2%. 65.0% of all respondents stated that they vaccinated their children with the full course of vaccines, while the remaining 35.0% did not vaccinate. University-level education dominated in both pro-vaccine and anti-vaccine groups. We found that 16.9% of parents who were unvaccinated as children themselves tend not to vaccinate their children. However, in the pro-vaxx group, only 0.7% of parents were unvaccinated during childhood. 50.8% of vaccine sceptics were not fully informed by healthcare professionals about the benefits and risks of vaccination, while only 31.6% of vaccine supporters were not informed. Social environment did not have an impact on the decision whether to vaccinate or not to vaccinate a child among both vaccine advocates and vaccine deniers (accordingly, 51.2% and 42.9%). 29.3% of respondents stated that the cost of paid vaccinations was too high. Open-text survey responses gave us more in-depth insight about the parental decision-making process. Protection of children and society from infectious diseases (31.7%) was mentioned as the main reason for vaccination. Whereas vaccine-hesitant parents were mostly concerned about already-occurring side effects or their risk (43.4%).Conclusions: Our findings confirmed that vaccine hesitancy was associated with not being vaccinated in childhood themselves, lack of information from medical practitioners and male gender. The price of vaccines also had an impact on immunisation rates – more than one-third of the vaccine supporting parents indicated that the cost of paid vaccinations was too high. The main incentive for vaccine compliance was parents’ desire to protect their children and society from infectious diseases. Whereas vaccine-hesitant parents were mostly concerned about already occurring side effects or their risk. There was no consensus, whether vaccination of children should be mandatory in Lithuania, as the answers to the question were almost evenly distributed. The formation of parents‘ attitudes towards children‘s vaccination is a complex process that is determined by parents‘ attitudes towards the health care system, lack of trust in doctors, and gaps in communication about the benefits and risks of vaccination. All of this information should be taken into account in health policy-making.

Forecasting technique of transport need for population of cities with high tourist potential during peak seasons

Introduction. One of the key problems in ensuring the quality of recreation for the population is the provision of transport services that meet the transport needs of vacationers. The study of the transport needs of the population of resort cities during the holiday season is caused by the need to assess changing passenger flows as a result of a multiple increase due to vacationers in accordance with their place of attraction and possible adjustments to the routes of regular passenger transportation by road. This determines the relevance of the topic of this article. The purpose of the article is to develop a methodology for determining the needs for transport services for the population and vacationers in cities with high resort potential during the busiest periods, which makes it possible to design transportation processes along regular routes.Materials and methods. General scientific methods of analysis and synthesis, the provisions of probability theory and mathematical statistics, mathematical modeling, as well as the provisions of the technology of transport processes were used as the main research methods. The work carried out the zoning of the city into transport areas with a center of gravity at stopping points of urban passenger transport. Calculations of potential transport needs were carried out on the basis of a survey of vacationers and field observations, which were processed using standard Microsoft Excel and Statistika software.Results. The main result of the work is a methodology for determining the potential transport needs of the population and vacationers in cities with high tourism potential for the development and adjustment of routes for regular passenger transportation by road during the holiday season, which represents the scientific novelty of the research. The technique contains a mathematical model and algorithm.Discussion and conclusion. The use of this methodology will enable the organizer of transportation in resort cities to optimize the organization of regular passenger transportation by road during peak seasons.

Frequency and immediate neonatal prognosis of low birth weight neonates in Parakou (Benin) in 2018

Introduction: Infant and child mortality remains high in Benin and is sustained by neonatal mortality which has stagnated for decades. Low birth weight (LBW) is recognized to be an important risk factor for neonatal death worldwide and serves as an indicator of perinatal death. Objective: The objective is to establish the relationship between LBW and immediate neonatal prognosis in the city of Parakou (Benin). Patients and methods: This was a cross-sectional study with a descriptive and analytical aim. A prospective collection of data on neonates born from pregnancies with a gestational age of at least 22 weeks of amenorrhea was carried out. It was conducted in three health structures drawn randomly from ten structures in the city of Parakou from May 15 to July 14, 2018. The study included all live neonates. The recruitment of neonates was subject to an oral informed consent of their mothers. We excluded from this study any malformed neonate, any neonate who died in utero and any neonate born from a multiple pregnancy. The data collected were processed and analyzed using Epi Data 3.1, Microsoft Excel 2007 and Epi Info version 7.1.5.0 software. Statistical inferences (Chi-Square test, Person test, Yates correction, Ficher's exact test and their confidence intervals) were used to check the level of association between LBW and morbid situations and then immediate mortality. The research protocol was submitted to the local ethics committee of the University of Parakou and obtained its approval under the reference 0121/CLERB-UP/P/SP/R/SA of May 5, 2018. Results: The frequency of LBW was 16.9%. LBW was associated with poor adaptation to extrauterine life (p=0.000), neonatal resuscitation (p=0.000) and early neonatal mortality (p=0.000). Birth weight in neonates with LBW was inversely related to the risk of death within 24 hours of life. Conclusion: One in six neonates had LBW in the city of Parakou in 2018. LBW at birth was a state at risk of neonatal resuscitation and early death. Reducing neonatal mortality requires preventing low birth weight.

EFFECTS OF NEUROLEPTICS WITH OR WITHOUT ANTI-CHOLINERGICS AMONG SCHIZOPHRENIC PATIENTS OF SOUTH GUJARAT

Objective: Neuroleptics (or anti-psychotics) indicated for the treatment of schizophrenia have significant dose-limiting extra-pyramidal side effects (EPS). Literature suggests limited evidence for the efficacy of anticholinergics in the treatment of neuroleptic-induced EPS. Thus, the present study was conducted to understand the effects of anti-cholinergics on EPS among schizophrenics already on neuroleptics (typical and atypical). Methods: This prospective, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital in South Gujarat for 15 months. A total of 200 participants were included based on selection criteria and distributed equally among four groups (A, B, C, and D) of 50 participants each. The collected data were analyzed for sociodemographic profile, current treatment regimen, type of neuroleptic drug, present complaints of EPS, and addition of any anti-cholinergic agent. An abnormal involuntarily movement scale score was used for examining movement disorders in all study participants. Descriptive statistical analysis was done using Microsoft Excel 2019 and IBM SPSS software version 28, and p&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Hundred patients who were prescribed typical neuroleptics were divided into groups A (with anti-cholinergic) and B (without anti-cholinergic), whereas the remaining 100 patients being prescribed atypical neuroleptics were divided into groups C (with anti-cholinergic) and D (without anti-cholinergic) by simple randomization. The majority of 56% were young adults (18–35 years) with an overall male pre-ponderance (2.14:1). Out of 50 participants in both groups A and B, a higher number of group B participants experienced tremors, rigidity, difficulty in movements, and tardive dyskinesia (TD) (48/50 vs. 30/50, 36/50 vs. 6/50, 24/50 vs. 1/50, 36/50 vs. 19/50) as compared to group A, respectively. Similar results were noted with groups C and D, where a higher number of group D participants experienced tremors, rigidity, difficulty in movements, and tardive dyskinesia (TD) (15/50 vs. 5/50, 11/50 vs. 3/50, 18/50 vs. 2/50, and 16/50 vs. 4/50, respectively). All the results were statistically significant (p&lt;0.05). Conclusion: There was a significant reduction in EPS among schizophrenia patients who were prescribed atypical over typical neuroleptics. The addition of one anticholinergic to the drug regimen also significantly reduced the frequency of EPS in schizophrenia patients.

Risk-Return Analysis of Select Tax Saving Mutual Funds

The Indian stock market has been in existence since 1875 bestowing lesser range of instruments from companies to invest their money through general public. Since then, the awareness of investment has gained momentum amongst the general public and investors have become curious and intuitive to park their funds in some instrument to attain or gain profit or handsome returns from companies and the market. With the advent of Unit Trust of India (UTI) being formed during 1964 by a special legislature to function under the regulatory and administrative control of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) , it brought an innovative financial thought to the mechanism of investment by investors. Mutual Fund industry boosted the investors’ confidence that upheld capital appreciation, protection, tax burden and promoted financial stability. The researcher attempted to analyse the risk and returns of select tax savings scheme of mutual funds and point out the best tax saving mutual fund amidst the 11 selected funds using parameters like standard deviation, beta, sharpe ratio and treynor ratios for a period of 90 months from 2016 to 2023 taking Net Asset Values published by AMFI and the closing values of Bombay Stock Exchange Standard &amp; Poor (BSE S &amp; P) Sensex and also by using MS Excel for computing all the parameters manually rather than the already published data by many other sources. It was examined that Quant Tax Direct Plan (Growth Option) has good indicators to prove its performance. The research findings can aide investors’ decision with numerous benefits ranging from savings, returns, gains and risk management.

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY ON MALIGNANT TERTIAN MALARIA AMONG CHILDREN BELOW FIVE YEARS ATTENDING THE OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT LABORATORY AT JINJA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL.

Background: World Health Organisation estimates that 229 million new cases of Malignant Tertian Malaria in 2019 in the world. 3.3 billion people in tropical regions and Uganda there is still a high mortality rate, especially in children below five years. Purpose of the study: The study was to determine the prevalence of Malignant Tertian Malaria among children below five years at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was used and data was obtained from 146 respondents using an interviewer-administered questionnaire diagnosed, described, analyzed, and presented information on tables and figures using Microsoft Excel. Results: The prevalence of MTM was 48.6% among children below five years. The most common socio-economic factor was household structure with a prevalence of 56.33% and 43.66% for respondents who were staying in completed houses and those whose houses were not in good condition respectively. The knowledge of caretakers about MTM was inadequate most caretakers knew about MTM with a prevalence of 63.38%. Conclusion: Although interventions for the management of MTM were in place, a prevalence of 48.6% was still high and demands for additional efforts from the health workers and the Ministry of Health to lower the heavy disease burden. Recommendation: The health workers should offer health education about MTM to the patients attending the hospital and emphasis on early diagnosis and treatment of MTM infections should be prioritized.

Antimicrobial resistance and ESBL production in uropathogenic Escherichia coli: a systematic review and meta-analysis in Ethiopia.

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious threat to global health systems. Escherichia coli is a major cause of urinary tract infections (UTIs). Understanding the AMR patterns of uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) is crucial for effective public health interventions worldwide. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to consolidate existing research and provide a comprehensive information on AMR UPEC in Ethiopia. We systematically searched databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct, along with including articles from Google Scholar. Data were extracted into Microsoft Excel and analysed using STATA 17.0. Cohen's kappa was computed to assess reviewer agreement, while the I2 statistic evaluated heterogeneity. Egger's tests were conducted to detect publication bias, and random-effects models were utilized to estimate the pooled resistance, with AMR rates for each antibiotic pooled separately. UPEC showed resistance rates, ranging from 3.64% (95% CI: -4.38% to 11.67%) for amikacin to 85.32% (95% CI: 78.6%-92.04%) for ampicillin. Highest resistance was to ampicillin (85.32%), followed by amoxicillin at 82.52% (95% CI: 74.3%-90.74%), tetracycline at 60.67% (95% CI: 51.53%-69.81%) and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole at 57.17% (95% CI: 49.93%-64.42%). Conversely, resistance rates were lower for amikacin at 3.64% and meropenem at 5.26% (95% CI: 2.64%-7.88%). UPEC demonstrated a pooled MDR rate of 79.17% (95% CI: 70.32%-88.01%) and a pooled ESBL production rate of 29.16% (95% CI: 22.36%-38.55%). High levels of AMR were observed in UPEC strains, highlighting a critical public health issue requiring urgent action through robust antimicrobial stewardship and surveillance to preserve effective UTI treatment options.

Perception and Attitude towards Disaster Preparedness among Library Professionals in University of Kerala and University of Calicut: An Investigative Study

Libraries stand as crucial pillars in moulding the future generations of society, playing a foundational role in the socioeconomic development of nations. Recognizing their significance, it becomes imperative to safeguard libraries for the prosperity of the upcoming generations. Central to this responsibility is the need for libraries to be well-equipped and prepared to face potential disasters. The article delves into the study of the perception and attitude of library professionals towards disaster preparedness at the University of Kerala and the University of Calicut. The objectives encompass assessing librarians’ perception levels, examining current disaster precautions, studying awareness about disaster management authorities, evaluating awareness of rules and laws, and determining the existence of structured training programs. To gather relevant literature, diverse resources such as Google Scholar, Emerald, ProQuest, ResearchGate, ScienceDirect, conference proceedings, dissertations and theses in Library and Information Science were consulted. The study utilised a closed-ended structured questionnaire aligned with the defined objectives to collect data. The gathered data underwent tabulation and analysis using Microsoft Excel 2013 and SPSS version 21. The findings of the study revealed that library professionals possess an awareness of disasters and the necessity for preparedness, yet there seems to be a gap in translating this knowledge into practical implementation. The conclusion drawn is a call to action, emphasising the need for libraries to execute disaster awareness and training programs for both staff and users. In a world where natural calamities and unforeseen events pose a constant threat, understanding how library professionals perceive and approach disaster preparedness becomes paramount. As custodians of academic treasures, their perspectives shape the resilience of these institutions against potential disruptions. The study, therefore, serves as a critical exploration into the preparedness landscape, providing insights that extend beyond the immediate scope of libraries to contribute to the broader discourse on disaster management in academic settings.