bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arabic translation and revalidation of the Lacrimal system symptom questionnaire for recording outcome in adult lacrimal surgery
Authors: Ahmed Islam S.H. , Idriss Hesham F. , Ashry Mona H. , Massry Youssef El
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To provide an Arabic translated, cross-culturally adapted version of the Lacrimal System Questionnaire (Lac-Q) and to validate the translated version.

Materials and methods

Arabic translation of the Lac-Q passed four stages: forward translation of the original English version to Arabic, backward translation to English, comparison of the original and the backward translated versions, and then a final review of the created Arabic version by an expert committee. Revalidation involved asking each participant after signing an informed consent to complete the Arabic version of the Lac-Q preoperatively, 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively. The surgical success was assessed 12 weeks postoperatively by Jones test 1 and by asking the patients to complete a satisfaction form with the surgical outcome. The patient reported being ‘satisfied’ or ‘not satisfied’ according to the improvement of the symptoms and if he/she believed further treatment was required.

Results

The Arabic version of the questionnaire was completed by 39 patients, where 11 of them had bilateral surgery done in the same sitting. We found a statistically significant positive correlation between patients’ social and eye symptom scores (preoperatively and 6 and 12 weeks postoperatively). Good internal consistency and test–retest reliability were confirmed by calculated Cronbach’s alpha and intraclass correlation coefficient, respectively. In addition, good discriminative validity was confirmed by a statistically significant difference between the scores of the diseased eye before the surgery and the eyes treated surgically. The score difference between the patients with successful and failed surgeries was statistically significant confirming good responsiveness of the studied version.

Conclusion

The Arabic version of the Lac-Q is a valuable tool to assess the lacrimal symptoms.
Refractive changes following yttrium aluminum garnet laser capsulotomy in pseudophakic patients
Authors: Alkassaby Maie H. , Elbakry Amr A. , Salah Yehia M. , Moussa Rasha M. , Sidky Mohamed K.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

To study the effect of neodymium-doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd : YAG) laser posterior capsulotomy on refraction and best-corrected visual acuity in pseudophakic eyes.

Patients and methods

This retrospective nonrandomized analytic study included 110 eyes (n=100 patients) with posterior capsular opacification following a phacoemulsification with foldable hydrophobic intraocular lens implantation surgery. Thorough ophthalmological examinations were performed for all subjects before and after YAG capsulotomy. The best-corrected visual acuity, refractive sphere, and refractive cylinder calculations before and one month after the capsulotomy were recorded.

Results

Patients’ mean±SD age at the time of surgery was 61.35±14.46 years. The mean±SD refractive sphere changed toward a myopic shift from 0.04±1.78 before capsulotomy to −0.40±1.43 after capsulotomy. The mean±SD refractive cylinder was −1.67±1.45 before capsulotomy and changed to −1.42±1.16 after capsulotomy, making a mild hyperopic shift. Changes in the axis of the cylinder were not statistically significant. A significant improvement was seen in the best-corrected visual acuity from 0.49±0.33 before capsulotomy to 0.23±0.22 after capsulotomy (P<0.001).

Conclusion

Visual acuity (best-corrected visual acuity) was significantly enhanced following the Nd : YAG laser capsulotomy, and therefore, it is suggested that Nd : YAG laser capsulotomy is a safe and effective alternative treatment for posterior capsular opacification. There are significant changes in the refractive sphere toward a myopic shift following the YAG laser capsulotomy and a significant change in the refractive cylinder toward a hyperopic shift, whereas there were no significant changes in the cylinder axis.
Occurrence of syphilis in the young patient who coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus: A dangerous combination case report
Authors: Wanjari Mayur , Late Sampada , Lohakare Tejaswee
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Several complications can occur if syphilis is not treated at an early stage. Several developing countries recently remerged the high cases of syphilis with human immunodeficiency. We reported the case of 26-years-old male infected with syphilis with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The patient sole and palm contain lesions. In our patient, HIV was diagnosed 2 years earlier in the prophylactic studies but had not taken any medical management. The penicillin G was taken to the patient to reverse the lesions, and it was successfully treated. The patient also was on antiretroviral therapy for the improvement in immune status. This case highlighted the importance of early management of any inflammatory cutaneous disease with HIV infections that can prevent the severity of the disease condition.
Assessment of frontline health workers in providing services for malaria elimination in the tribal district of Mandla, Madhya Pradesh
Authors: Rajvanshi Harsh , Islam Farzana , Kashyap Varun , Pathak Rambha , Agarwalla Rashmi , Gupta Ekta , Lal Altaf A.
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

The Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) are the frontline health staff that provide essential health care services, including diagnosis and treatment of malaria. To support India’s malaria-free goal by 2030, a project known as the Malaria Elimination Demonstration Project (MEDP) in the tribal district of Mandla was initiated. This study assessed the capabilities of ASHAs and ANMs of Mandla district to diagnose and treat malaria.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was conducted in the 71 sub-centers and their villages where at least one positive malaria case was diagnosed in 2019. Pre-designed and validated tools were used to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practices of ASHAs and ANMs. Analysis was performed using descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regressions.

Results:

Malaria is the fifth priority of the ASHAs and ANMs of Mandla district. Good level of knowledge regarding malaria etiology, diagnosis, and prevention was found, but the ability to treat a malaria case as per the national drug policy was below expectations. Frequent and prolonged stockouts of drugs and diagnostics were found. Logistic regressions revealed better capacity of ANMs to dispense correct treatment as compared to the ASHAs. Improvement was seen in the ASHAs ability to interpret rapid diagnostic test (RDT) results following trainings by MEDP Mandla.

Conclusion:

There is a need to increase the capabilities of the frontline health staff of Mandla for malaria diagnosis and treatment. Continuous trainings and a robust supply chain management system is required to equip the ASHAs and ANMs to effectively deliver malaria diagnosis and treatment services.
Utility of Flow Cytometry in Diagnosis of Acute Leukemias: A Study at RIMS, Ranchi, India
Authors: Mahto Sunil K. , Prasad Niraj
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

Leukemia is a neoplastic disorder originating in a hematopoietic cell that has undergone an intrinsic change, causing it to escape from the normal restraints imposed on proliferative activity. Immunophenotyping is now the preferred method for diagnosing, classifying, staging and monitoring the disease progression as well as response to therapy.

Material and Method:

The material of the present study consisted of 51 patients suffering from hematological malignancies who attended and /or were admitted in Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences, Ranchi during the period from March 2018 to August 2019.

Results:

A total of 51 cases were diagnosed as acute leukemia on microscopic examination. On immunophenotyping, 36 cases (70.6%) were diagnosed as Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML), 15 cases (29.4%) were diagnosed as Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL). ALL cases were further divided into B-Cell ALL and T-Cell ALL with 8 cases (15.7%) and 7 cases (13.7%) respectively. Cytogenetics could not be done for these cases due to non-availability of the set-up for the same at the institute.

Conclusion:

Flowcytometry can be a great tool in diagnosis and categorisation of leukemia especially at centres where cytogenetics is not available.
A case series of coagulopathy in preterm or growth-restricted term neonates born to mothers with antenatal SARS-CoV-2 infection: Neonatal post-COVID-19 coagulopathy?
Authors: Roy Shambhawi , Jha Vijendra N. , Ranjan Binay
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Paediatric multi-system inflammatory syndrome in the form of multi-system inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) and neonatal multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS-N) are being reported all over the world. While MIS-C is seen few weeks after active severe acute respiratory syndrome-coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in the same child, MIS-N is proposed to be occurring in neonates after active SARS-CoV-2 infection in the mother in antenatal period and hyperimmune response to the transplacentally transferred maternal IgG antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2. Most of the cases which develop MIS-N present with cardiac findings in the form of rhythm disturbances. In this article, we report data, clinical presentation and management of 15 preterm and growth-restricted term neonates who presented with bleeding in the first 2 days of life. The coagulopathy could not be explained by the common causes of bleeding in this population and was refractory to the general line of management. Laboratory results had signs of hyperimmune response (raised procalcitonin [PCT], C-reactive protein [CRP]) and remarkably deranged coagulation profile (very high d-dimer levels with normal platelet counts and normal-to-high fibrinogen values). Most of the mothers had history of symptomatic COVID-19 infection in the antenatal period, and although all (including neonates) were negative by real-time polymerase chain reaction for SARS-CoV-2, serological testing showed positivity for IgG fraction of antibodies specific to SARS-CoV-2, but negative for IgM antibodies. This observation was similar to the phenomenon of MIS-N; however in our study, the hyperinflammatory response primarily affected the coagulation system. Although COVID-19 coagulopathy has been described in adults, it has been reported in the presence of severe active SARS-CoV-2 infection, unlike a delay of several weeks seen in our study. Hence, the term ‘Neonatal post-COVID-19 coagulopathy’ as proposed in this article needs further research and validation.
A community-level educational intervention trail to study the impact of life style modification in control of hypertension and diabetes- A non-randomized trial (Before and after intervention study without control)
Authors: Kundapur Rashmi , Modi Bhavesh , Mary Lavanya , Manjula R , Santhosh P , Saxena Deepak
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Dietary habits and physical inactivity are related to the risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases, Diabetes and Hypertension, of which burdens are increasing all over the world. . It is essential that lifestyle modification and nondrug treatment measures such as health education, reduction in weight through regular exercise, changing in eating patterns is essential to control of Diabetes and Hypertension. Hence the present study is taken up with objectives.

Objectives:

1. to assess and compare the impact of health education on life style modification (diet modification) on control of hypertension and diabetes of intervention group. 2. To assess and compare the practice of changed pattern of life style modification (diet modification) of known hypertensives and diabetics with continuous health education module and follow up.

Methodology:

This community-level education intervention trial to reduce the burden of Non communicable diseases (hypertension and diabetes) was conducted in coastal Karnataka. The study was taken up in a rural area of coastal Karnataka . A specific module for physical activity, diet modification separately for hypertension and diabetics was prepared by experts and this specific module trained social worker introduced diet modification, exercise pattern and habits to the village enrolled participants with involvement of family member who actually cooks at home for 2 months.

Results:

In the study subjects, it was observed that, the subjects who had higher systolic and diastolic pressure before intervention, changed to the lower levels after intervention. Though the change in blood pressure is not statistically significant. The intervention of overall lifestyle intervention, there was increased subjects with Hb1Ac in the range of 7-9% and reduced subjects with Hb1Ac of >9.1%. Though it was not statistically significant. There was significant improvement in the mean duration of physical activity in order to control the hypertension and Diabetes mellitus. We also noticed that there was reduction in the sedentary hours, though the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

Life style intervention with continuous monitoring is essential to bring down the blood pressure and diabetic sugars. We donot need doctors alone to bring the life style modifications and the health workers can initiate it in the villages. The intervention of life style modifications have brought in better care and quality of life in the villages compared to control village.
Reasons and solutions for unhealthy food consumption and physical inactivity among school-going adolescents: A sequential mixed-methods study in Puducherry, South India
Authors: Nancy S. , Rahman K. Mujibur , Kumar S. Sathish , Sofia S. , Robins M. Amala
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Unhealthy food consumption and physical inactivity in adolescents play a key role in the development of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Objectives: The study was planned to capture the reasons and solutions for unhealthy food consumption and physical inactivity among school-going adolescents.

Methods:

A school-based sequential mixed-methods study was conducted in Puducherry for six months. In Phase I, a survey (QUAN) was carried out among 405 representative students from 9th to 12th standards to identify the reasons for unhealthy behaviors. Then, Phase II compromised two focus group discussions (FGDs) (QUAL) with 20 purposively selected school staff, parents, and healthcare professionals to explore the solutions for unhealthy behaviors. In Phase III, the key action points were ranked (QUAL) by 60 teachers. Quantitative data was analyzed in Epi_Info 7.1.5.0 software (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; Atlanta, Georgia, US). Thematic content analysis was done for the qualitative data in Atlas.ti.9 software (Scientific Software Development GmbH, Berlin). Further, mean rank and Kendall’s concordance coefficient (W) were calculated for the ranked data in SPSS 24 software (SPSS Inc; Chicago, Illinois, USA).

Results:

About 70.1% of students had unhealthy food consumption and 61% of students lacked physical activity. Notably, 59.9% of males preferred unhealthy foods, and 65.2% of females were physically inactive. The leading reasons for unhealthy eating habits were taste (78.9%), increased online food delivery (75.7%), and attractive advertisements (74.3%). Whereas, the prime reasons for sedentary behaviors were increased study load (81.8%), high-density traffic (74.9%), and insufficient recreational facilities (71.7%).

Conclusion:

The prioritized feasible action points would help in the development of context-specific behavior change communication strategies for future health promotion interventions in resource-poor settings.
Effect of negative pressure wound therapy on wound thermometry in diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Srivastava Vivek , Meena Ram Niwas , Pratap Arvind , Verma Awgesh Kumar , Ansari Mumtaz Ahmad , Mishra Shashi Prakash
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT

Background:

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is the treatment of choice for diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), and the role of NPWT in the management of DFU is limited. The aim of the study was to compare the effects of NPWT versus conventional dressing (CD) on wound healing in DFU.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 55 patients were included and divided into two groups: 23 patients were treated with NPWT and 32 patients with CD. The NPWT dressings were changed every 7 days, while the CDs were changed daily. Wound culture sensitivity, wound size, granulation tissue, and pain evaluation (assessed by Visual Analog Scale) were all measured at the start and 3 weeks or until the ulcer was healed. The wound margin temperature was measured at four random sites for thermometric evaluation, and normal limb temperature was also measured for comparison. Patients’ satisfaction and treatment costs were also compared.

Results:

On days 14 and 21, the wound size was reduced significantly in the NPWT group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). The percentage reduction in wound size from baseline to days 7, 14, and 21 was significantly higher in the NPWT group (P = 0.013, P = 0.001, and P = 0.029, respectively). On days 7, 14, and 21, the granulation tissue score was significantly higher in the NPWT group (P = 0.001, P = 0.001, and P < 0.001, respectively). On days 14 and 21, the mean VAS score was significantly low in the NPWT group (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001, respectively). The majority of wounds in the NPWT group were sterile on day 21 compared to those in the CD group (P = 0.008). The majority of patients in the NPWT group had excellent patient satisfaction (P < 0.001). The average material cost was significantly higher in the NPWT group (P = 0.001). The mean wound temperature of the affected limb was significantly higher compared to that of the unaffected limb (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

In terms of early formation of granulation tissue, faster wound size reduction, less discomfort, and patient satisfaction, the study indicated that NPWT appeared to be superior. An initial rise in temperature in a DFU may indicate the presence of a pre-ulcerative lesion.
Unsuspected systemic Epstein-Barr virus–positive T-cell lymphoma of childhood diagnosed at autopsy in a potential homicide case
Authors: Robbins Daniel J. , Ranheim Erik A. , Kallan Jamie E.
Published: December 2022

Systemic Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)–positive T-cell lymphoma of childhood (SETLC) is a rare, rapidly progressive, and often fatal disease of children and young adults characterized by monoclonal expansion of EBV-positive T cells in tissues or peripheral blood following infection with EBV. Its distinction from other EBV-positive T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders with overlapping features can be difficult, and particular diagnostic features may not be manifest until autopsy examination. We present the case of a 10-year-old boy with significant disability due to remote traumatic brain injury following non-accidental head trauma who died unexpectedly at home. Given the history of physical abuse and the potential for homicide charges, significant medicolegal implications arose with this case. Pathologic investigation ultimately revealed conclusive diagnostic features of SETLC including extensive proliferation of EBV-positive T cells in multiple organs. A natural manner of death was confirmed, thereby excluding delayed homicide related to complications of non-accidental head trauma.
Las unidades fraseológicas en La Rambla paralela de Fernando Vallejo y sus traducciones al esloveno en Vzporedna ulica
Authors: Markič Jasmina
Published: December 2022

El artículo presenta un análisis contrastivo de las unidades fraseológicas presentes en la novela La Rambla paralela del autor colombiano Fernando Vallejo y las traducciones de estas en la versión eslovena Vzporedna ulica, novela traducida por Ferdinand Miklavc. El objetivo del presente trabajo es buscar las posibles correspondencias entre las unidades fraseológicas del español y del esloveno. El análisis muestra, como era de esperar, que son pocas las correspondencias plenas entre estas dos lenguas distantes tanto geográfica como lingüísticamente ya que se trata de una lengua eslava y otra románica habladas en regiones geográficamente lejanas. Se tiene en cuenta también las variedades diatópicas del español, sobre todo referentes al español de Colombia, y el hecho de que se trata de una narrativa, es decir, de un lenguaje literario. Sin embargo, algunas UFS analizadas son equivalentes plenos, es el caso de los paralelismos entre los universos fraseológicos de las lenguas. Llaman la atención las UFS polisémicas y las UFS que aparecen más de una vez en la novela y se traducen de manera diferente.
Za kakšno sedanjost gre v izjavi Še pogleda me ne?
Authors: Derganc Aleksandra
Published: December 2022

V prispevku se razpravlja o tem, ali bi slovenski stavek Še pogleda me ne lahko služil kot zgled za to, da je mogoče v slovenščini aktualno sedanjost izraziti z dovršnim sedanjikom. Čeprav ni mogoče trditi, da je vidsko obnašanje v vseh slovanskih jezikih enotno, pa se zdi, da stara Miklošičeva trditev, da je odgovor na vprašanje Kaj počneš? v slovanskih jezikih praviloma nedovršni sedanjik, še vedno drži. Dovršni sedanjik ima v slovenščini vrsto pomenov, vendar nima pomena aktualne sedanjosti. Kot navajata slovnica avtorjev Bajec, Kolarič, Rupel in Toporišičeva slovnica, imajo nekateri pomeni dovršnega sedanjika modalno komponento sem pripravljen, sem sposoben, nameravam narediti. Modalno komponento ima verjetno tudi ti. prasens effectivum oz. performativna raba tipa obljubim, prisežem. Mogoče je torej trditi, da ima dovršni sedanjik v Še pogleda me ne modalni pomen – ‘še pogledati me noče’, za kar najdemo paralele tudi v drugih slovanskih jezikih, med drugim tudi v starem novgorodskem dialektu (po Zaliznjaku prezens naprasnogo ožidanija).
Alcune osservazioni sull’uso dei paradigmi verbali nell’italiano L2: l’italiano per gli affari
Authors: Lenassi Nives
Published: December 2022

Nella produzione dei testi di corrispondenza italiana i comunicatori sloveni provenienti dal mondo del lavoro spesso affrontano con insicurezza la verbalizzazione dei complessi rapporti aspettuali, temporali e modali previsti dal sistema verbale italiano. Tali insicurezze sono evidenti sia nei testi redatti dai parlanti con un’elevata competenza linguistico-comunicativa sia in quelli composti da comunicatori che possiedono un repertorio linguistico più limitato. Questi ultimi sono anche più propensi a comporre messaggi molto sintetici, con una gamma piuttosto ristretta di paradigmi verbali anche nelle situazioni in cui le esigenze e gli scopi comunicativi richiederebbero la redazione di un testo più esteso.

Visti i disagi dei non madrelingua, ci si è chiesti quanto spazio dedicano vari libri di testo per l’italiano per gli affari alle attività il cui obiettivo è lo sviluppo della competenza relativa alla conoscenza e all’uso dei paradigmi verbali nell’ambito della corrispondenza commerciale. La ricerca dimostra che – in dipendenza da vari parametri quali il livello QCER dei singoli libri di testo, il loro orientamento più o meno comunicativo, l’importanza ascritta alla corrispondenza commerciale ecc. – possiamo constatare notevoli differenze tra i materiali analizzati in quanto alla presenza delle attività e ai paradigmi verbali trattati in esse. Un numero maggiore di attività e una loro distribuzione proporzionata nella prassi glottodidattica potrebbe sensibilizzare gli utenti/apprendenti a un’attenzione più focalizzata e accurata nel riconoscere l’insieme degli elementi che stimolano l’uso di singoli paradigmi verbali nei testi di corrispondenza commerciale. L’obiettivo di tale approccio ovvero sensibilizzazione è quello di giungere prima a una comprensione adeguata dei testi e dopo a una stesura dei messaggi pragmaticamente efficaci.
I Corpora SEAH di comunicazione specializzata nel settore dell’Architettura e delle Costruzioni
Authors: Piccioni Sara , D’Angelo Mariapia , Ferro Maria Chiara
Published: December 2022

La mancanza di competenze nel linguaggio accademico-disciplinare costituisce spesso un ostacolo alla mobilità degli studenti. Questo è particolarmente vero nel campo dell’Architettura e delle Costruzioni (AC), in cui il percorso formativo comprende una serie di sotto-domini tecnici che sono spesso definiti da pratiche professionali, tradizioni culturali e quadri giuridici specifici di un dato paese. Con l’obiettivo di favorire la partecipazione ai programmi di scambio, il progetto Erasmus+ SEAH (Sharing European Architectural Heritage: Innovative language teaching tools for academic and professional mobility in Architecture and Construction) mira a creare corpora specializzati nel campo dell’AC e moduli linguistici open access basati sui suddetti corpora in lingua francese, tedesca, italiana, russa e spagnola. Il contributo presenta il quadro teorico di riferimento, le metodologie e le finalità del progetto SEAH, soffermandosi sui criteri e sulle procedure generali del corpus design, con esemplificazioni della compilazione e impiego dei corpora per la lingua spagnola, italiana e russa.
Synthesis of some new thiophene-based compounds and evaluations of their cytotoxic activities
Authors: S. Mehdhar Fatima , Y. A. Alzahrani Abdullah , Abdel-Galil Ebrahim , E. Abdel-Ghani Ghada , Saeed Ali , Abdel-Latif Ehab
Published: December 2022

ABSTRACT. A series of new thiophene derivatives was prepared through nucleophilic substitution reactions of the precursor N-(4-substituted-phenyl)-5-(2-chloroacetamido)-4-cyano-3-methylthiophene-2-‎carboxamides 4a and 4b with different sulfur and/or nitrogen nucleophilic reagents (namely; mercaptoacetic acid, 2-mercaptobenzothiazole, 5-(phenylamino)-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-thiol, 2-mercapto-4,6-dimethylnicotinonitrile, 3-arylazo-4-mercapto-4-(phenylamino)-but-3-en-one derivatives, ammonium thiocyanate, piperidine and/or morpholine). The structures of the prepared thiophene compounds were characterized by spectral analysis. Their cytotoxicity was evaluated against two human cancer cell lines (HepG2 and MCF-7) and indicated promising results. Pretreatment of HepG2 cells with the tested compound 4b sensitized the cells to the cytotoxicity of sorafenib, leading to a significant decrease in the IC50 from 3.9 to 0.5 µM.

 

KEY WORDS: N-(Thienyl)-2-chloroacetamide, Bis-thiophene, Thieno[2,3-d]pyrimidine, Ammonium thiocyanate, Cytotoxicity

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2023, 37(2), 373-389.                                                          

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v37i2.10
Secure document and image transmission through an encrypted network system
Authors: Aliyu Mansur , Nonso Onyia Franklin , Abdullahi Anas , Sani Umar , Hassan Zahriya L.
Published: December 2022

Data communication and networks as a field gives high priority to data and network security. Presently, internet security issues have become very critical in sharing information. Perhaps, there is need for robust techniques for the protection of data shared via unsecured network channels. Since cryptography is a technique for securing plain text messages such as encrypted key exchange and authentication but reveals when and where communication is taking place, while steganography hides the existence of data to be transmitted. Thus, there is need for a tool that combines these two techniques in a single data transmission. As such, this paper intends to develop an application that combines both features of cryptography and steganography techniques for secure communication. The application is a cross-platform tool that can effectively hide information in many different carrier file formats such as image, audio or digital video file. The study adopt the requirements of Advanced Encryption Standard (AES) and Least Significant Bit (LSB) algorithm in order to come up with best technique that is more robust in securing confidential documents and images. The developed App accepts different file formats when hiding plaintext, messages, and images. The App is recommended to government security agencies, financial institutions, e-commerce websites/app, educational bodies, and individuals in sending personal data online.
Prevalence of Coccidiosis among local and exotic breeds of reared chickens in Azare Metropolis, Bauchi State Nigeria
Authors: Usman A.M. , Malann Y.D. , Babeker E.A
Published: December 2022

Coccidiosis is a deadly disease that hampers chickens’ productivity and welfare. The disease is a major menace to the global poultry industry. Coccidiosis is caused by the apicomplexan parasite of the genus Eimeria. This study investigated the prevalence of Coccidiasis amongst the chickens reared in Azare metropolis. A total number of four hundred 400 feacal samples of live and slaughtered chickens were collected and examined using standard parasitological methods between March and June, 2022. The samples comprised of 246 female and 154 male; 300 exotic species and 100 local species. Chi-square test and simple percentage were used to analyze the generated data and p<0.05 was adopted to determine the level of significance. An overall prevalence rate of 173 (43.3%) was recorded. The prevalence rate was higher in female 138 (56.1%) than male with 35 (22.7%). There was statistically significant difference in infection rate between the sexes of the Chickens. The lower age (1-4weeks) had the highest rate of prevalence rate of 64(59.8%) followed by age (5-16weeks) with 97(38.1%) and Adult (16weeks>above) with lowest infection rate of 12(17.6%). Similarly, high infection rates were observed among local breed 64(64%) than exotic breed 109(36.3%). The difference between the age groups and the two breeds in prevalence rate was statistically significant (p<0.05).Coccidiosis is endemic in both local and exotic chickens in the study area due to poor management system. It is therefore, recommended that good management system of rearing the chickens, regular vaccination against Coccidiosis, maintaining good hygienic practice as well as creating awareness among farmers on effect of this disease on their productivity and welfare should be ensured.
Effects of a conventional aphrodisiac: a twenty eight day repeated administration of Sildenafil citrate graded doses on experimental rats
Authors: Ojatula A.O. , Nwanja N.
Published: December 2022

Sildenafil citrate (Viagra), a phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (PDE5I), has long been used as a first-line oral treatment for erectile dysfunction. While it has beneficial effects on the erectile organ, it also has some negative effects on other cells and/or tissues related to the reproductive system when exposed for an extended period of time. The purpose of this study was to study the long term effect of Viagra on sperm parameters in male Wistar albino rats. Twenty (20) albino male Wistar rats were selected into four groups (n=5) randomly. The control group was administered 1 mL/kg of distilled water while 50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg, and 200 mg/kg body weight of Sildenafil citrate were administered once in a day for 28 days to three treatment groups of rats. Oral administration was done using oropharyngeal cannula once daily for 28 days. At the end of the trial period animals were sacrificed on the 29th day, and epididymal sperm and testes were collected subject to various analytical assays. Findings showed significant reduction in sperm count and sperm normality, with a significant incremental in sperm malformations/abnormality in 28 days Viagra exposed animal when compared to the control. The testicular assay depicted histopathological alterations in testes of male rats treated with Sildenafil citrate at all dose levels. The current study clearly demonstrated that long-term use of Viagra caused changes in sperm quality and quantity, resulting in a decrease in fertility rate. It also suggested that Viagra had an effect on spermatogenesis and epididymal function. Understanding the molecular downstream events involved in long-term PDE5 inhibitor exposure can be useful for supervising infertility related issues and suggesting corrective measures.
‘Petroleum derivatives’ toxicity: influence on the growth of soil nitrifying bacteria
Authors: Ikuesan Felix Adeleke , Ehuwa Iyanu , Adeleke Bartholomew Saanu
Published: December 2022

Over dependence on crude oil and its derivatives to drive our daily activities for energy and economy results in frequent discharge of petrochemicals into the environment causing pollution of varying magnitude with worrisome ecological and environmental impact of global concern. This study aimed to determine the toxicity of petroleum derivatives on soil nitrifying bacteria. Soil samples were collected into sterile polythene bag and transported to the laboratory for analyses. Microbiological analyses of the soil samples were performed using conventional and standard microbiological techniques. Kerosene, diesel and petrol at 1%, 3%, 5% and 10% concentrations were used as toxicants on nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Results revealed the mean counts of 2.7 x 107 (CFU/g), 4.3 x 106 (CFU/g), 8.7 x 104 (CFU/g) and 1.2 x 103 CFU/g of total heterotrophic bacteria, bacterial growth on Okon red, Ashby medium and Yeast extract mannitol agar respectively. The identities of nitrifying bacteria were Azospirillum spp., Azotobacter spp. and Rhizobium spp. Toxicity results revealed that while Azospirillum spp. exhibited complete cell death to petrol from 3%, all the other bacteria showed log survival of 70.29 – 86% to the toxicants and Azospirillum, spp., Azotobacter spp. and Rhizobium spp. had 76.63%, 79.63% and 86% log survival to diesel and 77.76%, 79.63 and 77.6% respectively to kerosene. Significant difference (p-value = 0.000) was observed among the three toxicants across all concentration levels. Therefore, this study concludes that petroleum derivatives are toxic to nitrifying bacteria at any concentration and the microbial response is dependent on concentration and hydrocarbon types. Soil contaminated with petroleum derivatives should of necessity be treated in order to ameliorate the consequences of pollution and restore soil productive capacity.
Factors that influence acrylamide formation in fried foods: a review
Authors: Jibril H. , Abdulkarim S. M. , Iliyau R , Abubakar S.A
Published: December 2022

Acrylamide (AA) is an industrial chemical used in the production of polyacrylamides: It was discovered in food during the thermal processing (frying, baking, grilling, and roasting, among other things) of a wide range of foods (mostly starchy foods). Frying is one of the pathway for acrylamide formation, in which oil is heated to temperatures above the smoke point, which results in the production of acrolein known as the acrolein pathway. The formation of acrylamide during frying is influenced by a variety of factors. The article examines the factors contributing to the formation of acrylamide in various fried food products. These factors include processing time and temperature, type of oil, size of food, reused oil, food type and brand, storage conditions, presence of antioxidant in oil and so on.
Investigating relationship between using smartphones for learning and academic performance of secondary school students in Nigeria
Authors: Bello Aisha Garba , Aliyu Mansur
Published: December 2022

Students are the primary users and recipients of smartphones and their persuasiveness has an impact on the general public. Several studies have found that there is a strong relationship between the use of smartphones and educational performance, as it led to behaviors that impair students' careers and learning habits. However, these studies only looked at smartphone usage patterns and presented a limited number of them. It is being proposed that the gap can be bridged by integrating smartphone usage and academic performance to keep track of users. The study involved 90 students in selected secondary schools in Sokoto State. According to the study, elements such as design functionality, design appeal, and design navigation influence students’ use of smartphones. Students are more likely to utilize their smartphones if they can quickly download pages, access e-learning systems and navigate between pages. It was also discovered that secondary school students in Sokoto frequently used their smartphones for some school learning activities, enhancing the perceived value of utilizing a smartphone for learning. They use their smartphones to access and share learning resources, chat with classmates and teachers, look up solutions to tasks, and even learn new things at any time from anywhere. In general, the study shows that using smartphones for learning improves general knowledge and has a good impact on secondary school students' academic performance.
Forecasting the exchange rate of Nigerian Naira to United State’ Dollar using ARIMA-GARCH Model
Authors: Magaji Bashir , Garba Jamilu
Published: December 2022

In order to model and forecast exchange rates in both developed and emerging countries, majority of time series analysts have employed various technical and fundamental approaches, the forecast outcome differs depending on the approach chosen or implemented. In this view, this study is about hybridization of Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average (ARIMA) with Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedastic (GARCH) model in forecasting exchange rate using monthly data of the Nigerian Naira against the U.S. Dollar for the period of January 2002 to February 2020. The stationarity of the exchange rate series is examined using unit root test of Augmented Dickey Fuller (ADF) test and Kwaitkowski-Philips-Schmidt-Shin (KPSS) which showed that the series is non stationary. To make the exchange rate series stationary, the data was transformed by first differencing and appropriate ARIMA models were obtained using Box-Jenkins method. ARIMA (0,1,1) and ARIMA(0,1,2) models were selected using AIC criteria and the residuals of these models were found to be serially correlated and heteroscedastic; hence the need for the hybridization of ARIMA with GARCH model. Therefore ARIMA models were hybridized with GARCH(1,1) to form ARIMA(0,1,1)-GARCH(1,1) and ARIMA(0,1,2)-GARCH(1,1). The results of forecast performance indicates that the best model is ARIMA(0,1,1)–GARCH(1,1) which has the lowest Root Means Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error( MAE).
Utilization of modern animal processing facilities among butchers in amosun abattoir, akinyele local government area of oyo state.
Authors: O C Odeyale , O O Abegunrin , O O Olayemi , J O Ogunsola , F T Adelusi , A O Ajanaku
Published: December 2022

To ensure good public health standard, the quality of management of abattoirs in the aspect of compliance to standard practice of meat inspection, sanitation and utilisation of modern facilities is fundamental. This study therefore examined utilization of modern animal processing facilities among butchers at Amosun abattoir in Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State. Simple random sampling was used to select 53% of the butchers out of 212 who use modern processing facilities to give total number of 112 respondents. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency, percentage and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). The result showed that all the respondents were male (100%) and married (90.1%). Also, 81.98% were below 50 years, 45% of them had primary school education and practiced Islamic religion (75.70%). The result further revealed that majority (70.3%) had low utilisation of modern processing facilities as well as unfavourable attitude (55.0%). Majority (64.0%) of the respondents identified some of the constraints to utilisation of modern processing facilities to be high. PPMC showed that there is significant relationship between utilisation of modern processing facilities and attitude (r= 0.221, p = 0.02). Also, constraints and respondents attitude toward utilisation of modern processing facilities was significantly related (r = -0.257, p= 0.007).  It is therefore recommended that government should organize seminar and programmes to create awareness on the importance of utilizing modern animal processing facilities.
Assessment of adoption of improved processing techniques among palm oil processors in ife north local government area, osun state, nigeria
Authors: J O Ogunsola , A B Alarape , O A Adesida , F F Ojo-Fakuade , J T Marizu , T O Anifowose
Published: December 2022

The study was carried out to assess the adoption of improved processing techniques among palm oil processors in Ife North local government area of Osun state, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 120 respondents from the study area and data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire. The data were analyzed through descriptive statistics. The result shows that majority of the respondents (74.2%) are female, 42.5% are between the age range of 31-40 and 54.2% are married. The result also shows that some improved techniques have been introduced to the farmers while some have not been introduced to them. A large number of the respondents have access to information mostly from neighborhood farmers, but there was variation in their level of adoption. Majority (75.8%) adopted hydraulic presser which is the highest technology adopted while Malaysian knife have not been adopted by 100% of the respondent. There was high level of challenges faced by the processors in the study area. Therefore it is recommended that more awareness and sensitization on improved processing technique should be given to palm oil processors and also the materials should be constructed by local crude and less sophisticated materials that can be constructed and repaired locally
Economic analysis of cassava processing in egbeda local government area, oyo state, nigeria
Authors: B H Ugege , A A Tunde-Francis , O C Odeyale , R T Ibode
Published: December 2022

Cassava is one of the most important crops that can be cultivated all year round yet there is inability to meet the quantity demanded by industries and other end user of the product. This study was carried out to analyse cassava value chain in Egbeda local government area of Oyo state, Nigeria. Primary data needed for the study were collected through the administration of questionnaires.  A total of 85 questionnaires were administered. Descriptive (Table and Frequency) and budgetary analysis was used.  Well-constructed questionnaires were administered to major actors in the chain (farmers/producers, marketers and processors.). The result revealed that there are three major cassava processed products in the study area; garri, cassava dough(fufu) and cassava chip (lafun).The result also revealed that females are more involved in the marketing(71.14% ) and processing(85.71% ) of cassava. Also most of the respondents were betweeen the age range of 31-50. The study also revealed that to every one tonne of fresh cassava 275000(garri), 34500 (wet fufu) and 45000(cassva chip) are produced respectively. While the average gross margin estimated for the producer/farmers was N706111. Also it was discovered that poor marketing information is a major challenge faced by the processors. It is therefore recommended that cassava processors should organize to form an association and a cooperative society to strengthen the marketing network.
Combining Remote Sensing and Space-Time Analysis for Desertification Monitoring in the Semiarid Dryland of Nigeria
Authors: Lawal Olanrewaju , Gbadegesin Adeniyi Sulaiman
Published: December 2022

Desertification has been identified as the resultant effect of dryland loss. Desertification is catalysed by anthropogenic modifications and variations in environmental/climatic conditions. The situation in Nigeria is further exacerbated by the growing demand for land by the population. To this effect, this study performed a space-time analysis of vegetative cover between 2001 and 2020 to unravel patterns and trends across the semiarid region of the dryland system in Nigeria. The dynamics during the rainy season (May and September) were examined using the Terra Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) dataset subjected to space-time analysis. Generalised Difference Vegetation Index (GDVI) was computed to the power of 2 to quantify vegetative cover across the study area. The results showed that the average of the GDVI ranges between -0.40 and 0.94, with a standard deviation of 0.11. Time series cluster analysis revealed that there are two temporal clusters: (1) no statistically significant trend (Statistics= 1.33, p-value = 0.18) and (2) statistically significant downtrend (Statistics = -2.37, p=0.02), with cluster 1 covering 95% of the areas examined. The most dominant (97% of the area) emerging space-time pattern was cold-spots (persistent, diminishing, sporadic, oscillating, and historical types). In conclusion, most of the areas showed no definite temporal pattern of vegetation pattern during the period, while more than 90% of the areas have witnessed a decline in vegetative cover. There is a need for a more coordinated approach to desertification control, constant monitoring is pertinent while new approaches to restoring degraded land are recommended.
Sexual Violence against Children in Rwanda: Prevalence and Associated Factors
Authors: Nyandwi Alypio , Namatovu Fredinah , Rusanganwa Vincent , Munyanshongore Cyprien , Nyirazinyoye Laetitia , Ndola Prata , Nshimiyimana Jean Damascene , Ingabire Marie-Gloriose , Nyirabahinde Anastasie , Salant Natasha , Kamukunzi Mecthilde
Published: December 2022

Background

Information and data on the burden and factors associated with violence against children are critical in designing and implementing preventive strategies and interventions. This study aimed to examine patterns of the prevalence of sexual violence (SV) against children in Rwanda and investigate associated factors to contribute to the knowledge about violence against children in Rwanda.

Methods

A sample of 1,110 children aged 13-17 years from a cross-sectional national survey done in Rwanda in 2015 was analysed. Weighted descriptive statistics were applied to describe the prevalence of SV against children, and weighted logistic regression allowed us to investigate factors associated with it.

Results

Over eight percent (8.4%) of all children, including about three percent (2.8%) of male children and around five percent (5.6%) of female children, reported having experienced SV within the last twelve months. Being a female child, having a romantic partner, and not attending school were some factors associated with SV against children in Rwanda.

Conclusion

Female children reported more SV than male children. Factors associated with sexual violence pertained to the child’s characteristics, family or household background characteristics, and community relations. The study findings call for an urgent need to prevent SV against children through awareness raising about it amongst children and the general public.

Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2022;5(3):302-314
Sounding the polyphonic cacophony of Macbeth with a young Jozi ensemble
Authors: Roberts Sarah
Published: December 2022

Digital theatre-making initiatives that had emerged during Covid-19 lockdowns urged an interrogation of the languages of live theatre when, in South Africa, as the public arena reopened and social interaction resumed, reconfigured notions of theatre-making seemed apt. Reformulating and reimagining the operations of the medium, and the processes through which stage productions evolve, not only applied aspects of successful digital theatre but also aligned with the ideological imperatives of decolonisation. The Joburg Theatre Youth Development Programme production of Macbeth (2021) offered an opportunity to explore soundscape through the interplay of spoken word and non-semantic avian and animal calls. As a point of entry to staging the play, ensemble-based improvisation around developing a soundscape led to a more considered mapping of ornithological images, their connotations and theatrical efficacy. Extended play in generating birdcalls was instrumental in building performers’ confidence in transposition and spontaneous translation from English to vernacular languages to give this rendition of Macbeth an edgy, contemporary, local tone. This article documents and addresses the rehearsal processes and some outcomes of the approach that was adopted.