North West Research Articles

Ferric iron in eclogitic garnet and clinopyroxene from the V. Grib kimberlite pipe (NW Russia): evidence of a highly oxidized subducted slab

Abstract Estimates of oxygen fugacity of eclogitic rocks are linked to the redox evolution of the oceanic protolith during subduction and its residence in the lithospheric mantle, and, based on knowledge of pressures and temperatures, allow modelling of the speciation of volatile elements and diamond (or graphite) versus carbonate stability. To date, the oxygen fugacity of mantle eclogites has been shown to vary between -6 (Kasai, Congo and Udachnaya, Siberia) and -0.1 (Udachnaya, Siberia) log units (relative to the fayalite-magnetite-quartz buffer, FMQ), linked to the low Fe3+ contents of garnets. In this study we investigated the Fe oxidation state of coexisting garnet and clinopyroxene hand-picked out of 17 diamond-free high-MgO and low-MgO mantle eclogites (dated at 2.84 Ga) from the V. Grib kimberlite pipe (East-European platform). Measured Fe3+/∑Fe values range between 0.03 and 0.19 for garnet and 0.18 to 0.38 for clinopyroxene, the former being higher than what was measured previously in garnets equilibrated at mantle conditions. The Fe3+/∑Fe of the reconstructed bulk rock ranges between 0.10 and 0.15 for high-MgO eclogites and 0.10 and 0.24 for low-MgO eclogites (with uncertainties of ± 0.02 and ± 0.03 in both cases). Thermobarometric calculations result in equilibration pressures and temperatures of 3.0 - 5.2 (± 0.4) GPa and 720 - 1050 (± 60) °C for both high-MgO and low-MgO eclogites, slightly lower than previous P-T estimates of mantle eclogites from the Udachnaya kimberlite pipe (Siberian craton). At these conditions, ∆logfo2 (FMQ) calculated using the available oxythermobarometric model varies from -1.7 to -0.6 log units for high-MgO eclogites and from -2.9 to 0.9 log units for low-MgO eclogites. Samples recording ∆logfo2 (FMQ) ≤ -1 log units overlap with North Slave, West Africa and Udachnaya eclogites, with no difference among eclogite types. The average values of -1.2 (± 0.4) log units for high-MgO and -0.6 (± 1.1) log units for low-MgO eclogites suggest different redox conditions of basaltic protoliths during subduction worldwide. Previous geochemical studies on the same rock samples reported evidence of cryptic metasomatism in both garnet and clinopyroxene that we demonstrate being not recorded by their major elements, while modal metasomatism evidenced by the presence of phlogopite as a product of interaction with a kimberlitic melt only affects the MgO of the bulk rock. Therefore, we suggest that high Fe3+/∑Fe ratios for garnet (> 0.10) and for reconstructed bulk rocks in the case of both low-MgO and high-MgO samples cannot be due to metasomatic interaction with an oxidized fluid, but rather are the consequence of Fe3+ redistribution in an unusually oxidized mafic protolith upon metamorphism. Our results highlight the redox variability of eclogites of Archaean age at conditions more oxidized than present-day MORBs and imply an oxidizing nature of the convective mantle source where magma was formed with consequent speciation of C in the form of carbonate fluid explaining, therefore, the lack of diamonds in V. Grib kimberlite pipe.

How did the introduction of the measles-containing vaccine second dose (MCV2) affect measles vaccine uptake? – evidence from Nigeria

ABSTRACT Nigeria has the highest burden of measles worldwide, as measles vaccine uptake remains low. Recently, the second dose of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) was introduced as part of the routine immunization (RI) program, and this study examined how it changed the uptake of the measles vaccine and the factors associated with vaccination behavior. The Nigeria Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2021 was used to compare measles vaccination uptake as well as factors associated with vaccination uptake between children before MCV2 introduction (cohort 1) and after the introduction (cohort 2). The overall rate of measles vaccine uptake was higher among cohort 1 (64%–95%) than among cohort 2 (56%–92%) in all zones because of younger age among cohort 2. The dropout from the first to second measles vaccines was similar between the cohorts (around 24%). Higher maternal education levels and higher household wealth levels were both correlated with the vaccine uptake or both cohorts but a positive correlation between the dropout and mother’s education level was observed only among cohort 2, especially in the North West and South West zones. The positive correlation between the dropout and mother’s education level among cohort 2 indicates that the introduction of MCV2 as part of RI might have helped to narrow the disparity in measles vaccine uptake in North West and South West zones. Further study is required to investigate strategies employed to reduce the disparity in these zones to apply nationwide.

Predicting the dynamics of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances in coastal regions of Africa: vulnerability index and adverse ecological pathways from remote-sensed variables.

This study aimed to predict the dynamics of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination and ecological vulnerability within coastal regions of Africa utilizing time-averaged remote-sensed data patterns from 2020 to 2023. The analysis identified PFAS contamination hotspots along the coast of Africa, particularly in western Africa around Nigeria and in areas spanning Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, with risk influenced by eastward wind patterns, overland runoff, and elevated aerosol optical depth (AOD) values. Regional trends indicated that variations in solar energy absorption and surface air temperature could influence PFAS dynamics in North Africa, South Africa, East Africa, and West Africa. In North Africa, intermediate overland runoff and lower sea-surface temperatures were observed. In South Africa, there were intermediate runoff levels and warmer sea-surface temperatures. East Africa experienced intermediate runoff as well. In West Africa, there was increased susceptibility to high overland runoff and aerosol-related PFAS contamination. From the weighted vulnerability index, significant disparities in environmental conditions across African coastal regions revealed that North Africa had relatively lower vulnerability, while West Africa had the highest susceptibility to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) contamination. This study emphasizes the necessity for region-specific vulnerability index models and targeted mitigation strategies to address diverse ecological and health risks from PFAS contamination along the African coast. Regional and international collaboration, spearheaded by organizations such as the AU and ECOWAS, is essential, with tailored policies aligned with the SDGs, Agenda 2063, and NEPAD crucial for effective environmental management, urging policymakers to prioritize cooperation and resource sharing for comprehensive sustainability goals.

Climatic Variations and Challenges to Socio-economic Development amongst Mbororo Communities in Mbum Plateau, North West Region of Cameroon

This study sets out to investigate the challenges hindering Mbororo sources of livelihood in Mbum Plateau, North West Region of Cameroon. Explanatory research was used where it specify the nature and direction of the relationships between the studied variables. The study used mixed methods of qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study employed the primary and secondary data sources to bring out realistic results. Rainfall Seasonality Index (SI) and Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) were employed to assess the vulnerability of the agro-hydrological system to climate variation. The major primary data sources used were field survey, interviews and questionnaires. A total of 200 questionnaires were distributed using stratified random and snow ball sampling techniques. The data obtained was complemented by secondary sources from published and unpublished materials. Data collected during the field survey were analyzed through two statistical techniques. The qualitative data obtained was analyzed through the content analysis whereas themes and codes were given to the different opinions and perceptions of the informants and their frequencies and percentages were being determined from there. Data were presented in tables, charts, maps, and graphs with some attempted interpretations. Data were analyzed using the chi-square and multiple regression models. The findings revealed that climate variability, dwindling pasture and low streams discharge are having negative effects on Mbororo communities. It was observed from satellite images that, land use over the years has been changing with reducing aerial extent and quality of pasture, reducing water points in Mbum Plateau. In order to adapt the decreasing cattle numbers on the side of the Mborroro, they have taken farming, diving, hawking arm rubbery, and schooling as new livelihoods sustenance. The study recommends a sustainable pastoral activity by encouraging the introduction of drought resistant cattle species, Bracharia and Guatemala grass to supplement the natural pasture. MINEPAI should regularly control herd size so as to ensure ecosystem balance and avoid overgrazing. Transhumance tracts and areas should be well demarcated to avoid frequent farmer-grazers’ conflicts and frequent cattle theft observed in the region.

Educational Programme to Implement Skin-to-skin Contact for Preterm Infants in the Intensive Care Units: Qualitative Study Proposal

Introduction Skin-to-skin contact (SSC) has been widely adopted as an efficacious and useful approach to neonatal care. Despite the endorsement of this practice by the World Health Organization (WHO) over a decade ago, healthcare institutions in South Africa, particularly in the North West Province (NWP), have shown limited progress with regard to its implementation. Of particular concern is the fact that South Africa accounts for 60% of the global mortality rate among low birth weight (LBW) preterm infants. Therefore, an educational programme can be beneficial for both parents and nurses in implementing SSC for preterm infants in intensive care units, with the aim of reducing the neonatal mortality rate. Aim The aim of this research is to develop an educational programme to implement SSC for preterm infants in intensive care units of the NWP. Methods This study will be conducted in three phases. Phase 1: An integrative literature review (ILR) will be conducted by following these five steps: formulation of the review question, search strategy, critical appraisal, data analysis, synthesis and conclusion. Phase 2 represents an empirical study using a qualitative exploratory and descriptive design. Purposive sampling will be used to select two populations. Population one will be parents of preterm infants and population two will be registered nurses and midwives. Semi-structured focus group discussions (FGDs) with a minimum of six participants will be used to collect data in both populations until reaching data saturation. Data will then be analyzed using steps proposed by Creswell and Clark. Phase 3 consists of the development of an educational programme to implement SSC for preterm infants in intensive care units, using Kellogg’s Logic Model (KLM). The following three KLM steps will be used for the development of an educational programme: inputs and activities, identifying outputs, outcomes, and outcomes indicators. Conclusion The study furnishes an introduction to the research, the aim and objectives of the research as well as the research methodology that will be adhered to. The results obtained from phases 1 and 2 will be used to form the basis for the development of an education programme in phase 3.

Distribution of antibiotic resistance genes and antibiotic residues in drinking water production facilities: Links to bacterial community.

There is a rapid spread of antibiotic resistance in the environment. However, the impact of antibiotic resistance in drinking water is relatively underexplored. Thus, this study aimed to quantify antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and antibiotic residues in two drinking water production facilities (NW-E and NW-C) in North West Province, South Africa and link these parameters to bacterial communities. Physicochemical and ARG levels were determined using standard procedures. Residues (antibiotics and fluconazole) and ARGs were quantified using ultra-high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) chemical analysis and real-time PCR, respectively. Bacterial community compositions were determined by high-throughput 16S rRNA sequencing. Data were analysed using redundancy analysis and pairwise correlation. Although some physicochemical levels were higher in treated than in raw water, drinking water in NW-E and NW-C was safe for human consumption using the South African Water Quality Guideline (SAWQG). ARGs were detected in raw and treated water. In NW-E, the concentrations of ARGs (sul1, intl1, EBC, FOX, ACC and DHA) were higher in treated water than in raw water. Regarding antimicrobial agents, antibiotic and fluconazole concentrations were higher in raw than in treated water. However, in NW-C, trimethoprim concentrations were higher in raw than in treated water. Redundancy analysis showed that bacterial communities were not significantly correlated (Monte Carlo simulations, p-value >0.05) with environmental factors. However, pairwise correlation showed significant differences (p-value <0.05) for Armatimonas, CL500-29 marine group, Clade III, Dickeya and Zymomonas genera with environmental factors. The presence of ARGs and antibiotic residues in the current study indicated that antibiotic resistance is not only a clinical phenomenon but also in environmental settings, particularly in drinking water niches. Consumption of NW-E and NW-C treated water may facilitate the spread of antibiotic resistance among consumers. Thus, regulating and monitoring ARGs and antibiotic residues in drinking water production facilities should be regarded as paramount.

Compound mortality impacts from extreme temperatures and the COVID-19 pandemic

Extreme weather and coronavirus-type pandemics are both leading global health concerns. Until now, no study has quantified the compound health consequences of the co-occurrence of them. We estimate the mortality attributable to extreme heat and cold events, which dominate the UK health burden from weather hazards, in England and Wales in the period 2020-2022, during which the COVID-19 pandemic peaked in terms of mortality. We show that temperature-related mortality exceeded COVID-19 mortality by 8% in South West England. Combined, extreme temperatures and COVID-19 led to 19 (95% confidence interval: 16–22 in North West England) to 24 (95% confidence interval: 20–29 in Wales) excess deaths per 100,000 population during heatwaves, and 80 (95% confidence interval: 75–86 in Yorkshire and the Humber) to 127 (95% confidence interval: 123–132 in East of England) excess deaths per 100,000 population during cold snaps. These numbers are at least ~2 times higher than the previous decade. Society must increase preparedness for compound health crises such as extreme weather coinciding with pandemics.

A cluster randomised controlled trial of a targeted distributed toothpaste and toothbrushing programme.

The aim is to assess the effectiveness of a distributed, targeted toothbrush and toothpaste programme on referrals for tooth extraction under Dental General Anaesthetic (DGA), in children of high-risk families compared to usual care. A recruiter and assessor-blinded, clustered parallel randomised control trial (RCT). Families with one or more children aged between 3 and 10 years having undergone a DGA operation for extraction of carious teeth, were approached within hospitals in the North West of England. Families were randomised at the cluster level in a 1:1 ratio. All eligible children within the family were consented into the study. The primary outcome was participant referral for a DGA 6 to 24 months post randomisation. A total of 961 families (1671 children) were randomised, 482 families (832 children) to the intervention, and 479 families (839 children) to the control group. Families (1662 children, 955 families) were included in the final analysis (825 intervention, 837 control). Marginal regression models (generalized estimating equation approach) taking into account cluster membership were used to model the effectiveness of the intervention at 24 and 48 month follow-up, including the variables, age, sex and IMD quintile. Seventy-six children (9.2%) in the intervention group had a DGA referral within 2 years compared to 57 children (6.8%) in the control group. The study found no effect of a clinically meaningful difference between the intervention group and usual care (Risk Ratio 1.36, 95% CI 0.98 to 1.89) in reducing referral for DGA for a targeted postal toothpaste/toothbrush program in a contemporary, population with previous family experience of DGA residing in an area of high deprivation. The target of the intervention (families of children with a DGA) was the correct focus given the referrals observed over 2 and 4 years. The study can aid policymakers, local authorities and commissioners to understand repeat DGA within families and further need for intervention.

Healthcare interactions prior to first hospital admission with alcohol-related liver disease.

To examine the healthcare contacts of patients in the year before an index admission to hospital with alcohol-related liver disease (ArLD) to identify where opportunities for earlier identification of alcohol use disorders (AUD) and ArLD and intervention may occur. A retrospective cohort study using the regional database encompassing NHS organisations across North West London (344 general practitioner [GP] practices, 4 acute hospital trusts and 2 mental health and community health trusts). Patients who had an index admission with ArLD were identified through healthcare coding and compared with a control cohort. Healthcare contacts, blood tests and AUD testing in the year preceding admission were measured. The ArLD cohort had 1494 participants with an index hospital admission with ArLD. The control cohort included 4462 participants. In the year preceding an index admission with ArLD, 91% of participants had at least one contact with primary care with an average of 2.97 (SD 2.45) contacts; 80% (n = 1199/1494) attended ED, 68% attended an outpatient clinic, and 42% (n = 628/1494) had at least one inpatient admission. Only 9% of the ArLD (137/1494) had formal testing for AUD. Abnormal bilirubin and platelets were more common in the ArLD than the control cohort 25% (138/560) and 28% (231/837), respectively, v 1% (12/1228) and 1% (20/1784). Prior to an index admission with ArLD patients have numerous interactions with all healthcare settings, indicating missed opportunities for early identification and treatment.

Effect of Zero Tillage and Different Weed Management Practices in Direct Seeded Rice (Oryza sativa L.) in Indo Gangetic Plains: A Review

Millions of rural and urban residents depend on the rice-wheat cropping system of the Indo-Gangetic plains (IGP) for their food security and means of subsistence. About 18 million hectares (m ha) of rice (Oryza sativa L.) and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) are rotated across Asia, of which 13.5 m ha are in the Indo-Gangetic Plains (IGP) of India. This agricultural system’s viability is currently in jeopardy due to static yields of both wheat and rice and a decline in total factor productivity. The North West IGP's high input crop culture has allowed weeds to dominate the weed flora, including P. minor in wheat and Echinochloa crus-galli L. in rice. Farmers in North West India have largely used zero tillage for growing wheat, and recently, farmers in the eastern IGP have done the same. Perennial weeds in the Eastern Indo-Gangetic Plain, such Cynodon dactylon L. and Cyperus rotundus L. can occasionally be a nuisance under zero tillage. As an alternative to puddled transplanted rice, the focus is currently on dry direct-seeded rice and machine transplanting of non-puddled rice. As a result of changes in tillage, crop establishment techniques, water use, and weed control brought on by the switch from transplanted rice to direct seeded rice, weed composition and diversity frequently vary. In nations where DSR is frequently used, weedy rice has become a significant concern. Using the Zero Tillage DSR system, certified seed, cultivars that are weed-competitive, stale seedbed procedures, living mulches, and chemical and biological weed control might change weed-crop competition in the crop's favour. However, more research on emergence characteristics and mulching effects of different crop residues on key weeds under zero tillage, cover cropping, and breeding crops for weed suppression will strengthen nonchemical weed management programs. In this review, we examine the extent of weed infestation, weed flora shift and the non-chemical alternative weed management in DSR.

Structural framework of the Caswell Sub-basin, North West Shelf, Australia

The Caswell Sub-basin, situated within the Browse Basin in the North West Shelf constitutes one of Australia’s primary hydrocarbon producing regions, with notable gas-condensate producing fields including Ichthys and Prelude. Jurassic syn-rift sandstones are extensively distributed across the basin and serve as one of the major reservoirs. However, reservoir sequences are typically intensely faulted and exhibit heterogeneity in thickness and lithofacies, with some areas experiencing localised erosion on uplifted fault blocks (e.g. Northern Caswell Sub-basin). Hence, understanding the nature of the 3D fault patterns and their growth history is crucial for evaluating the reservoir characteristics for field development and additional exploration activities. This study, therefore, aims to evaluate the structural framework and the tectonic evolution of the Caswell Sub-basin. Detailed structural interpretation of Paleozoic and younger sequences was conducted using multiple 3D seismic datasets extending over Ichthys, Prelude, Lasseter, and Crown fields. Our study focuses mainly on Mesozoic faulting patterns and kinematics evaluated from interpreted structural maps, thickness changes of each stratigraphic interval and fault throw profiles of major bounding faults. The extensional phase during the Early–Middle Jurassic triggered the development of NE–SW trending faults and the deepening of the Brewster Graben. While, from the Late Jurassic to the Early Cretaceous, the development of E–W trending faults in the north of the Crown and Lasseter fields indicate a shift in the regional stress regime. We highlight the importance of evaluating the structural linkage from basement to cover sequences to achieve a comprehensive understanding of reservoirs and associated petroleum systems.

Life of field emission forecast development and reduction option screening for a multi-train LNG hub

The Karratha Gas Plant (KGP) is a complex integrated facility which produces liquified natural gas (LNG), domestic gas (Domgas), condensate, propane and butane products. The multi-train facility has been operating for 40 years with several phases of expansion resulting in a range of gas turbine technology and energy efficiency levels across the facility. The challenge for the next phase of KGP operation is to manage declining North West Shelf (NWS) feed gas levels, and the addition of Other Resource Owners feed gas while reducing emissions and maintaining energy efficiency. A flexible emissions forecasting tool has been developed which allows unit and whole of facility emissions reduction and energy efficiency options to be assessed. The tool builds on current quarterly timestep production forecasts and models ambient temperature, unit turndown and turn-off strategies, and potential implementation of lower emissions technology. The ability to generate and compare life of field emissions profiles for extrapolated operating modes and proposed modifications allows unit strategies and phasing of emissions reduction modifications to be investigated and screened before further economic assessment and creation of marginal abatement cost curves (MACC).

ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT OF PRIMARY SCHOOL PUPILS BETWEEN SPECIALIST AND GENERALIST TEACHING OF SCIENCE / TECHNOLOGY IN THE ANGLOPHONE SUB-SYSTEM OF EDUCATION IN CAMEROON

The study was designed to investigate the academic achievement of primary school pupils between specialist and generalist teaching of science / technology in the anglophone sub-system of education in Cameroon. The study employed a concurrent triangulation mixed – method combining both a quasi - experimental design and a survey design. Two generalist classrooms and two specialist classrooms with 60 students each were equally shared between the North West and South West Regions. The head teachers of the four schools were interviewed. The instruments for data collection was the Achievement Test for Level three Primary School pupils (ATLPS) and an interview guide for school heads. Quantitative Data was analysed with the support of SPSS 21.0 while qualitative data went through thematic analysis. Findings showed that the specialist class had a performance of 75.2 over 100, very significantly higher than the 47.1 over 100 recorded in the generalist class (P=0.000). The hypothesis here stated is then rejected, thus implying that specialist approach of teaching is much more appropriate in enhancing pupils’ academic performance than the currently and unfortunately sustained generalist approach. It was generally perceived that teaching method, assessment and pupils’ academic achievement were more effective in the specialist classrooms. Supervision was perceived more challenging in generalist classrooms. It was recommended that there should be a gradual integration of specialist teaching in the educational system, generalist teachers should be upgraded in subject where they are more comfortable in prospect of specialist teaching, and an improvement on administrative supervision and decision making, Training of specialist teachers to be included in the curriculum of Teacher Training Colleges.

In Pursuit of Equanimity: Managing Change and Adversity in Early Modern English Households, c.1570–c.1670

Abstract This article establishes equanimity as an important emotional ideal in the late sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. In showing how equanimity served to strengthen positive emotions and temper disruptive states, it promotes a more positive view of the era’s emotional landscape. The article employs the pursuit of equanimity as an intimate analytical device for uncovering the agency of ordinary people, and thus offers historians a new perspective on momentous change and adversity in the early modern period. It charts personal experiences of adversity—from physical and spiritual threats to familial disputes, uncertain patriarchal power and economic precarity—alongside individual management of religious, social and political change following the English Reformations and during the Civil War. Where other scholars have examined how different social groups reactively negotiated new realities, this microhistorical study of one gentry family in the North West of England urges historians to refocus their attention on the proactive courses that people took. Through a detailed examination of 541 manuscript letters, domestic decorative schemes, and archaeological evidence of ritual practices of protection, the article uncovers how the Moretons of Little Moreton Hall in Cheshire managed change and mitigated disaster. It discusses instances where equanimity played a persistent role in motivating the family’s actions and behaviours in daily life, and argues that practices designed to promote emotional harmony were crucial for preserving kinship networks and managing personal well-being, as well as gender relations within households, in early modern England.

Mapping the Land Use Changes in Cultivation Areas of Maize and Soybean from 2006 to 2017 in the North West and Free State Provinces, South Africa

Land use practices face significant pressure due to increased demand and conflicting needs. Several factors contribute to this trend, such as the ever-increasing human population, the increased demand for food production, and the expansion of industrial and agricultural areas. This paper, focused on the cultivation patterns and investigating changes in land use of maize and soybean over time (i.e., both genetically modified and non-genetically modified) in two South African provinces. The objective was to determine whether there was a net increase or decrease in land cover age for these two crops between 2006 and 2017 in the selected study areas. Hence, the study utilized ArcGIS (10.8.1) software to quantify and map the land used for the cultivation of maize and soybean from 2006 to 2017 in Free State and North West provinces. The results show both provinces to have minimal expansion or change in cultivation areas for both maize and soybean between 2006 and 2017. We concluded that both maize and soybean cultivation areas in these provinces, did not expand beyond the current agricultural areas (space), and did not encroach onto new land areas. As a result, both maize and soybean do not currently pose a threat to the surrounding landscape (i.e., natural vegetation) and are not in direct competition with other neighboring land use practices. We recommend that data on the annual planting or cultivation area be consistently gathered, analyzed, and mapped to monitor any alterations that could influence the current findings. This will also assist with any land use planning and management practices.

Relationship between dietary fiber content and prebiotic potential of polysaccharides from the seaweeds of the North west coast of India

The macroalgae are a sustainable bioresource that can be harnessed for their functional food and nutraceutical applications. This study characterized the biochemical composition and bioactive potential of natural biological macromolecules, such as macroalgal polysaccharides extracted using a green, aqueous extraction process. The in-vitro antioxidant and antiglycemic activity of these polysaccharides were evaluated using model, free radical and antiglycemic compounds. The prebiotic potential of macroalgal polysaccharides were analysed based on their ability to promote the growth of two potential probiotic bacteria Lactobacillus acidophilus and L. bulgaricus and suppress the growth of enteric bacteria, Escherichia coli. Among the polysaccharides studied, the brown algal polysaccharide MPS8 MPS9 and MPS10 exhibited good antioxidant, antiglycemic and prebiotic activity. Based on infrared spectroscopy, the functional groups sulfation and carboxylation were identified in potential polysaccharides. The monosaccharide composition in the bioactive polysaccharides was determined using High Performance Anion Exchange Chromatography Pulse Amperometric detector (HPAEC-PAD). These bioactive polysaccharides were fractionated using ion exchange chromatography to purify it and further characterized using gel permeation chromatography and NMR spectroscopy. The results these polysaccharides are mainly composed of fucose and glucose which is due to the fucoidan and laminarin, respectively. Such macromolecules with high dietary fiber content and bioactivity are in global demand as functional food, nutraceutical and pharmaceutical formulations.

Analysis of caesarean delivery rates using Robson ten group classification system in North West Amhara referral hospitals, Ethiopia, 2022: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionThe cesarean delivery rate has been consistently rising over time and differs among different hospitals. In order to understand the specific factors contributing to this rapid increase beyond the recommended levels, it is necessary to continuously monitor and evaluate cesarean deliveries using the Robson ten-group classification system. Consequently, the objective of this study was to evaluate the rate of cesarean deliveries within each group by employing the Robson ten-group classification system. MethodA cross-sectional study design was conducted in referral hospitals in the North West Amhara region, involving 721 mothers who gave birth between January and February 2022. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Data collection involved an interviewer-administered, pretested, semi-structured questionnaire, as well as a review of medical charts. The women were allocated into one of the ten Robson groups. The proportion of each group, the contribution of each group to the total caesarean delivery rate, and the caesarean delivery rate within each group were all calculated. ResultThe overall caesarean delivery rate was 277 (38.3 %). The primary factors contributing to the overall cesarean delivery rate were found to be group 1 (23.9 %), group 5 (21 %), group 3 (11.6 %), and group 10 (11%). The most common indication for caesarean delivery included an abnormal fetal heart rate pattern, the presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid, a history of previous cesarean delivery, fetal-pelvic disproportion, and breech presentation. ConclusionGroup 1, 5, 3, and 10 emerged as the major contributor to the overall cesarean delivery rate. Interestingly, this study also unveiled a significant prevalence of cesarean delivery among low-risk groups. These specific groups warrant further investigation to identify potential factors that can be modified and implement targeted interventions to decrease the cesarean delivery rate. It is crucial to evaluate existing management protocols in the study area.

THE NATIONAL PROSTHETIC HIP DISLOCATION (PHD) STUDY

Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA) and Hip Hemiarthroplasties (HA) are successful, cost-effective procedures that improve quality of life. Dislocation is a well recognised complication with a significant health and economic burden. We aim to establish the current management practices across the United Kingdom (UK) for Prosthetic Hip Dislocations (PHD). Our definition of a PHD includes; THA, HA and revision THA.This national study builds on our regional pilot study and records one of the largest datasets of Prosthetic Hip Dislocation management within the UK.A trainee-led collaborative; the North West Orthopaedic Research Collaborative (NWORC). Conducted a retrospective audit, registered as Quality Improvement (QI) projects, collected data from 38 hospital trusts across the UK.Data was collected on patient-related factors, inpatient management, and outpatient follow up of each PHD episode between January and July 2019. Primary outcome measured definitive management, in the form of revision surgery or the consideration for this through a referral pathway.A total of 673 (THA 504, Revision THA 141, HA 28) patients were included with a total of 740 dislocation episodes. Mean age was 75.6 years with female to male ratio 2:1. The majority of PHDs were a result of a low energy mechanism (98.7%) and presented over 6 months post index procedure (80.5%). Over half (53.8%) attended with a first or second time dislocation. Only 29.9% patients received onward revision referral; whereas 70.1% followed diverse management patterns, including local non-arthroplasty and primary arthroplasty surgeon follow-ups. Revision THAs had higher rates of referral for revision (p&lt;0.001) compared to primary THA and HA dislocations.A high number of PHDs present across the UK, with under a third receiving definitive management plans. This variation increases the economical burden to the National Health Service, highlighting the need for national guidance to manage these complex patients.

Study Reviews Multilateral Installation Improvements on the North West Shelf

_ This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper OTC 32910,“A Decade of Multilateral Technology Installation Improvements Down Under,” by Stefano Cappiello and Adam Pasicznyk, SPE, Halliburton. The paper has not been peer reviewed. Copyright 2023 Offshore Technology Conference. _ Multilaterals wells on the North West Shelf of Australia have been installed for over a decade. An overview of the well architecture, technology evolution, reliability, and efficiency of these operations is presented in the complete paper. The study is focused on subsea multilateral campaigns, where multiple global and regional first installations took place in mature fields. Introduction Multilateral developments in Australia mainly have been completed off subsea installations, with fewer performed from jack-up rigs. These multilateral completions mostly have been installed with the junction located in the producing reservoir sands. Technology Advancement of Multilaterals (TAML) Level 5 completions have successfully been deployed. The authors classify related systems as follows, with the most attention paid in the synopsis to the final two classes: - Generation One (Field A) - Generation Two (Field B) - Generation Three (Field C) - Generation Four (Field A) General Multilateral Well Design Because of sand production within the reservoir, these applications typically require a TAML Level 5 completion system. These systems deliver hydraulic and mechanical isolation at the junction through the completion. The junction is isolated above and below by production packers and by swell packers in the lateral. The junctions typically are installed horizontally within the reservoir. The original general requirements to construct Level 5 multilateral junctions included the following: - Ability to construct a Level 5 Junction in the 9⅝-in. casing or liner - Ability to run a landing profile or coupling as part of the 9⅝-in. production casing or liner - Ability to run and orient a premilled window at depth - Drill-out 8½-in. openhole section into the mainbore and into the lateral - Junction installed within the reservoir at high angle - Window milling to be performed in one trip - Lateral completion to be installed in one trip - Compressive strength rating capable of running screen sections over 2 km As the operators began to adopt multilateral technology in Australia, the following requirements were incrementally added: - Ability to deliver a Level 5 multilateral system in an existing well - Ability to deliver a trilateral well - Improve efficiency and reduce installation time

Breast feeding techniques and associated factors among lactating primipara mothers during the postpartum period in Debre Markos health institutions, North West Ethiopia

BackgroundBreastfeeding technique is a combination of positioning, attachment, and breast milk suckling. Breastfeeding problems are caused by incorrect breastfeeding practices, which lead to premature discontinuation of breastfeeding. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the proportion of breastfeeding techniques and associated factors among lactating primiparous mothers during the postpartum period in the Debre Markos town health facility in 2021. MethodsAn institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from November 1st to December 30, 2021. A systematic sampling technique was utilized to select study participants. An observational checklist developed by WHO and an interviewer-administered questionnaire were used to collect data from 409 mothers. The collected data were entered into Epi-Data version 4.6.0.4 statistical software and then exported to SPSS version 24.0 for cleaning and analysis. Binary and multivariable logistic regression was carried out to identify the factors associated with the practice of effective breastfeeding techniques. A variable that has a p-value of ≤0.2 was transferred to a multivariable for further analysis. The strength of association was identified using an adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval, and a p-value <0.05 was taken as statistically significant. ResultsThe proportion of practicing effective breastfeeding techniques among lactating primipara mothers was 29.1% (CI: 24.7, 33.3). Baby aged ≥29 days, mothers who were living in urban, mothers who attended college or higher education, mothers who have heard about BFT practices, mothers who received counseling on BFT after delivery, and mothers whose breast nipples had everted were variables that were significantly associated with the practice of effective breastfeeding techniques. ConclusionThe findings of this study revealed that the practice of effective breastfeeding techniques among lactating primipara mothers was lower in the study area. Therefore, healthcare providers should have to counsel mothers on how to position and attach their infants during breastfeeding. Practice implicationThe provision of breast-feeding method counseling to nursing mothers is one way to enhance the practices of breast feeding.