bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pachymic Acid Protects Hepatic Cells against Oxygen-Glucose Deprivation/Reperfusion Injury by Activating Sirtuin 1 to Inhibit HMGB1 Acetylation and Inflammatory Signaling
Authors: Xue Chengbiao , Xu Zhigao , Liu Zhongzhong , Zeng Cheng , Ye Qifa
Published: June 2023

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is an important cause of liver injury occurring during liver transplantation. It is usually caused by inflammatory response and oxidative stress-induced oxidative damage. Pachymic acid (PA) has various biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer. However, the action mechanism of PA in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury is currently unknown. In this study, liver cells were subjected to oxygen-glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) to simulate a hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury model. The binding relationship between PA and sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) was analyzed by molecular docking. Cell viability was detected by Cell Counting Kit-8. Expression levels of SIRT1 and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) were detected by western blot. Subsequent levels of inflammatory factors were detected by related kits and western blot. Meanwhile, related kits were used to examine levels of oxidative stress markers including reactive oxygen species, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase and cytotoxicity-associated lactate dehydrogenase. Finally, cell apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry and western blot. The results showed that PA significantly ameliorated OGD/R-induced decrease in SIRT1 expression, increase in HMGB1 acetylation and HMGB1 translocation. Moreover, the elevated levels of inflammatory factors, oxidative stress indexes and cell apoptosis upon exposure to OGD/R were reversed by PA treatment. Moreover, the addition of SIRT1 agonist and inhibitor further demonstrated that PA exerted the aforementioned effects in OGD/R-exposed cells by targeting SIRT1. Thus, the present study revealed the mechanism by which PA ameliorated OGD/R-induced hepatic injury via SIRT1. These results might provide a clearer theoretical basis for the targeted treatment of OGD/R-induced hepatic injury with PA.
The effect of reported penicillin allergy on length of stay for patients admitted to internal medicine services
Authors: Evenhouse Susan Linn , Zhang Jingwen , Schumann Samuel Owens
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

Penicillin allergy is the most common medication allergy reported in the United States; however, >90% of these patients can tolerate penicillins. Reported penicillin allergy is associated with increased morbidity and mortality for patients. This retrospective, observational study evaluates the effect of reported penicillin allergy on length of stay (LOS) for adult patients admitted to the internal medicine services of a tertiary care, academic medical center.

Materials and Methods:

We evaluated adult patients admitted to internal medicine services from June 2014 to June 2019 comparing those who reported penicillin allergy to those who did not. Patients who did not receive antibiotics were excluded. Univariate analyses were performed on multiple demographic and clinical variables between patients who do and do not report a penicillin allergy. Multivariable linear regression was used to model the effect of reported penicillin allergy on LOS.

Results:

14,144 patients were admitted to internal medicines services during the study period, with 8697 patients receiving an antibiotic during their admission. 10.5% of these patients reported a penicillin allergy. The unadjusted mean LOS for patients who report penicillin allergy was 10.4 days, while the unadjusted mean LOS for patients who do not report penicillin allergy was 9.3 days. Adjusting for covariates, the estimated LOS for patients who report penicillin allergy was 11.1 days, while the estimated LOS for patients who do not report penicillin allergy was 9.5.

Conclusions:

A reported penicillin allergy is associated with an increase in estimated LOS of 1.6 days.

The following core competencies are addressed in this article:

Systems-based practice, Medical knowledge.
Use of a regression model and a statistical process control method to assess AWaRe classification-based antimicrobial consumption in an Indian tertiary care hospital over 5 years
Authors: Bansal Alka , Jakhar Punam , Trivedi Kamal Kant , Bansal Nidhi , Jain Smita , Sharma Neha
Published: June 2023

Introduction:

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends quality-based “AWaRe classification of antibiotics” for the monitoring of antimicrobial consumption. It classifies commonly used antimicrobials into five main categories: Access, Watch, Reserve, Not-recommended (NR), and Others. At least 60% of total consumption should be from the Access category and <10% should be from the Reserve category to minimize the further development of resistance. However, we do not know how these recommendations compare with current trends in antimicrobial consumption in India. Hence, a study was planned to statistically evaluate the AWaRe classification-based trend of antimicrobial consumption over 5 years.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective study was conducted to retrieve the antimicrobial consumption data of SMS Hospital, Jaipur, from January 2017 to December 2021 as per AWaRe classification. Regression and statistical process control analysis was carried out separately for all five categories of antimicrobials on MATLAB 2016a (9.0.0.341360).

Results:

Regression analysis revealed that the consumption of Access, NR, and Others significantly decreased while that of Watch and Reserve increased between 2017 and 2021. Statistical process control analysis showed that the use of Access, Watch, and Others was within prescribed statistical limits but that of Reserve and NR was higher than statistical thresholds at times.

Conclusion:

The increased consumption of Watch and Reserve antimicrobials combined with surpassing of upper control limit by Reserve and NR antimicrobials at certain times raises concern. Hence, there is an acute need to take measures to generate awareness about the incorporation of the WHO recommendations in practice to support the antimicrobial stewardship program.

The core competencies addressed in this article are:

Medical knowledge, Systems-based practice, Practice-based learning and improvement, Professionalism.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Authors: Bello Surajudeen O. , Ayinor John , Ozhe Sunday I. , Ibrahim Tajudeen L. , Hassan Ikrama I. , Ogunkunle Taofik O.
Published: June 2023

Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning is a common indoor pollutant that is quite dangerous if inhaled. It is a “silent killer”, as it is extremely hazardous to people when emitted in an enclosed area as it gets absorbed into the bloodstream and displaces oxygen due to a much higher affinity, resulting in cellular hypoxia. Children are vulnerable as they are less likely to take preventive measures and have higher oxygen requirements due to higher metabolic demands. We reported this case series among five siblings aged between 4 – 16 years (two boys and three girls) in Lafia Nasarawa State. The parents are petty traders, with secondary level of education. The children live with their parents in a one-bedroom apartment and the family possesses a small petrol generator usually situated outside the house when in use and kept within the apartment after use to avert theft. The children bought fuel from a local vendor (a black marketer) to watch a movie on a day the parents are away. They kept the generator within the apartment in a space between the bathroom and their store while keeping all windows and other air outlets closed so as to circumvent the noise from getting to neighbours. The children got exposed to CO fumes which had engulfed the apartment and were met unconscious by the mother when she came back from night vigil. They were rushed to a nearby hospital, before eventual referral to our facility after the demise of one of them aged 12 years. We reported CO poisoning among siblings with death in one of the five. Oxygen administration plays a vital role in the successes recorded.
Effect of Open Book Management and Teamwork on Productivity among Staff of Teaching Hospitals in Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Nnaji Precious A. , Ujunwa Fortune A. , Agbaeze Emmanuel , Christian Iyiani C.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Open book management (OBM) is a style of management in which employees learn about an organizational operation, contribute to it, and get rewarded for meeting financial targets. A method of running an organization in which the information received by employees should not only help them operate effectively but also assist them to understand how the company is run.

Objectives:

The aim of this article is to determine the effect of OBM and teamwork on productivity among staff in public tertiary hospital in Southeast Nigeria.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional analytic study was done among 500 staff of 5 public tertiary hospitals in Southeast Nigeria. The respondents were selected using a multistage sampling technique. Information obtained includes sociodemographic profile, staff disposition, knowledge of hospital policy and management, level of cooperation among staff, level of teamwork, productivity, and employees’ job satisfaction, and these were assessed using 5-point Likert scale. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0; chi-square and Pearson's correlations were used to test the level of relationship.

Results:

Five hundred respondents participated in the study. All respondents had tertiary education; 38.8% had work experience ranging from 1 to 5 years, whereas 61.2% had more than 5 years of experience. About 53% of the respondents at least agreed that there is transparency in information flow in the hospital with a response score of more than 3.0. The practice of teamwork had a response rate of less than 3.0. More than 60% of the respondents attested to a lack of teamwork. The response score of organizational productivity was 3.78, with 74.8% of the respondents at least agreeing that the institutions are productive in their activities.

Conclusion:

Teamwork is lacking in our health institutions and affects organizational productivity of teaching hospitals. Hence, workplace harmony should be encouraged in order to improve productivity.
Cardiac Dysfunction Among Nigerian HIV-Infected Children on Antiretroviral Therapy in a Tertiary Center
Authors: Arodiwe Ijeoma O. , Ujunwa Fortune A. , Chinawa Josephat M.
Published: June 2023

Background:

Cardiac dysfunctions have been seen in HIV/AIDS children on antiretroviral therapy (ART). This contributes to increased mortality. There is a dearth of information on cardiac dysfunctions in African children.

Objectives:

We investigated the types of cardiac dysfunctions in HIV/AIDS and its associated factors in children on ART.

Materials and Methods:

Echocardiography was performed on 90 children with HIV/AIDS using SONO 2000 machine with 5.5—12 MHz transducer. The reliability score of the machine is 95%. The prevalence of cardiac dysfunctions was determined using proportions and associated factors using logistic regression. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 was used for data analysis.

Results:

Cardiac dysfunctions were significantly higher in the anti retroviral therapy group than the ART-naive group. It was seen in 52.0 (81.0%) of patients on anti retroviral therapy and in 10.0 (38.1%) of ART-naive patients, P = 0.01. The significant ones were left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction in 38.5% (P = 0.02); LV systolic dysfunction in 19.2% (P = 0.03); LV dilatation in 15.4% (P = 0.01), pericardial effusion 7.7% (P = 0.04), and dilated cardiomyopathy in 3.8% (P = 0.13). A linear relationship between cardiac dysfunctions and CD4+ cell counts and age of patients was noted. The highest coefficient of determination (R
2) = 0.8642 was associated with CD4+ cell counts, followed by the age of patients R
2 = 0.4203.

Conclusion:

The prevalence of cardiac dysfunctions was high. Using echocardiography, cardiac dysfunctions were more likely to be detected early. It is, therefore, recommended that baseline and periodic echocardiography should be part of the management of these children.
Easy-to-treat and difficult-to-treat radiological phenotypes in coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia
Authors: Patil Shital , Dhumal Uttareshvar , Patil Deepak , Acharya Abhijit
Published: June 2023

INTRODUCTION:

Radiological phenotypes are observable radiological patterns or characteristics. Robust data are available regarding the role of high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pneumonia. We evaluated the role of radiological phenotyping in assessing severity and predicting the response to therapy, as well as its association with outcomes in COVID-19 pneumonia.

METHODS:

This prospective observational study included 3000 COVID-19 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction-confirmed cases with lung involvement who underwent thoracic HRCT on hospital admission and were categorized as mild, moderate, or severe according to lung segment bilateral involvement (mild 1–7, moderate 8–15, and severe 16–25). Follow-up thoracic CT imaging was also conducted 6 months after hospital discharge. Response to treatment phenotypes was categorized as “easy to treat” or “difficult to treat” based on the response and interventions required in indoor settings, including ventilatory support. Age, gender, comorbidities, laboratory parameters, the use of bilevel-positive airway pressure/noninvasive ventilation, and outcomes (with or without lung fibrosis) were key observations. The Chi-square test was used for statistical analysis.

RESULTS:

Easy-to-treat and difficult-to-treat radiological response phenotypes were observed in 20% and 80% of the cases, respectively. There were significant associations between the radiological phenotypes and the duration of illness at hospital admission. The duration of illness (<7 days, 7–14 days, and >14 days) could predict the radiological phenotype (P < 0.00001). Laboratory parameters at hospital admission (C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, and D-dimer) were significantly associated with the radiological phenotypes (P < 0.00001), as were interventions required in indoor units (P < 0.00001). The HRCT severity score at admission was significantly correlated with the radiological phenotype (P < 0.00001). Post-COVID lung fibrosis or sequelae were also significantly associated with the radiological phenotype (P < 0.00001).

CONCLUSION:

Easy-to-treat and difficult-to-treat phenotypic differentiation had a crucial role during the initial assessment of COVID-19 cases on hospitalization and was used for planning targeted intervention treatments in intensive care units. In addition, phenotypic differentiation had an important role in analyzing the radiological sequelae and predicting final treatment outcomes.
Comparing the clinical effects of balanced electrolyte solutions versus normal saline in managing diabetic ketoacidosis
Authors: Tamzil Rozinadya , Yaacob Normalinda , Noor Norhayati Mohd , Baharuddin Kamarul Aryffin
Published: June 2023

The first-line treatment of diabetes ketoacidosis (DKA) involves fluid resuscitation with normal saline infusion to correct hypovolemia. Hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis from aggressive normal saline administration was associated with worse clinical outcomes in managing DKA. Other choices for normal saline include balanced electrolyte solutions (BESs). This study aimed to compare the clinical effects between BESs and normal saline in managing DKA. This study was a systematic review of probing articles published from inception to October 2021 in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online, Google Scholar, and Scopus. Eight randomized controlled trials with a total of 595 individuals were included. The data were analyzed at 95% confidence level using random-effects models. For the primary outcomes, there was no difference in the duration of DKA resolution. (Mean difference [MD] −4.73, 95% confidence interval [CI] −2.72–4.92; I
2 = 92%; P = 0.180). However, there was a significantly lower postresuscitation chloride concentration in the BES (MD 2.96 95% CI − 4.86 to − 1.06; I
2 = 59%; P = 0.002). For the secondary outcomes, there was a significant reduction in duration for normalization of bicarbonate in the BES group (MD 3.11 95% CI − 3.98-2.23; I
2 = 5%; P = 0.0004). There were no significant differences between groups in duration for recovery of pH, intensive unit admission, and adverse events (mortality and acute renal failure). Resuscitation with BES was associated with decreased chloride and increased bicarbonate values in DKA patients. It suggests that BES prevents DKA patients from hyperchloremic metabolic acidosis.
Selfish Node Detection Scheme based on Bates Distribution Inspired Trust Factor for MANETs
Authors: Janakiraman Sengathir , Priya M. Deva
Published: June 2023

The trustworthiness of mobile nodes is considered as the principal parameter for ensuring significant data dissemination in a Mobile Ad hoc NETwork (MANET). However, the selfish behaviour of nodes minimizes the trust by dropping a considerable amount of data packets in the network. The significant dropping of data packets by the selfish node introduces huge data overhead with increased latency and energy consumption, thus increasing the number of retransmissions. In this paper, Selfish Node Detection Scheme based on Bates Distribution Inspired Trust Factor (SNDS-BDITF) is propounded for predominant detection of selfish behaviour by investigating multiple levels of factors that contribute towards effective selfishness detection. The proposed SNDS-BDITF approach is also potent in enhancing the detection rate of selfishness by multi-perspective analysis of each monitored node’s forwarding characteristics considering the benefits of other cooperating mobile nodes. The simulation results of the propounded SNDS-BDITF method are enhanced on an average by 16% and 14% when compared to the existing selfish node segregation mechanisms prevalent in the literature.
Alcohol, tabaco, comida basura y deporte en series y películas de Netflix: Análisis de contenido y sus posibles impactos en la sociedad
Authors: Peña Sarrionandia Mikel , Sarrionandia Peña Ainize
Published: June 2023

Introducción: Este estudio analiza la forma en la que aparecen contenidos relacionados con el alcohol, el tabaco, la comida basura y el deporte en las 10 películas y las 10 series más vistas de Netflix. Metodología: Para realizar el estudio se utiliza un método de análisis conceptual basado en la codificación de intervalos de 5 minutos. Resultados: Los resultados señalan que el alcohol se muestra en el 32,7 % de las secciones de las películas y en el 29,8 % de las series. El tabaco aparece en el 13,2 % de los intervalos de las películas y en el 14,5 % de las series. La comida basura tiene una presencia del 24,3 % en las películas y del 24,9 % en las series. En cuanto al deporte, el 7,8 % de las secciones de las películas y el 8,5 % de las series mostraron este contenido. Discusión: Entre las conclusiones destaca la necesidad de transformar el imaginario colectivo en lo referente a productos gravemente nocivos para la salud. Al mismo tiempo, se promueve el uso de los medios para impulsar hábitos de vida saludables entre los consumidores.
Electric Vehicle Power Transfer System Using Conductive Automated Connection Devices
Authors:   Hybrid - EV Committee
Published: June 2023

This document covers the general physical, electrical, functional, testing, and performance requirements for conductive power transfer, primarily for vehicles using a conductive ACD connection capable of transferring DC power. It defines conductive power transfer methods, including the infrastructure electrical contact interface, the vehicle connection interface, the electrical characteristics of the DC supply, and the communication system. It also covers the functional and dimensional requirements for the vehicle connection interface and supply equipment interface. New editions of the documents shall be backwards compatible with the older editions. There are also sub-documents which are identified by a SAE J3105/1, SAE J3105/2, and SAE J3105/3. These will be specific requirements for a specific interface defined in the sub-document.

SAE J3105: Main document, including most requirements.

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SAE J3105/1: Infrastructure-Mounted Cross Rail Connection

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SAE J3105/2: Vehicle-Mounted Pantograph Connection

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SAE J3105/3: Enclosed Pin and Socket Connection
Increase in Odontogenic Cervicofacial Infection Requiring Hospitalization in Children During COVID-19 Quarantine
Authors: Çelik Taylan , Karaaslan Lara
Published: June 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) quarantines on children hospitalizedfor odontogenic cervicofacial infection. The data of patients aged 1 month-18 years, who were followed up with the diagnosis ofodontogenic cervicofacial infection in Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Hospital between January 2019 and June 2021 wasexamined, retrospectively. Thirteen patients with a mean age of 8.5±3.8, 7 of whom were male were included in the study. Three of the patients were diagnosed in the pre-COVID-19 period and 10 of them were diagnosed in the second year of COVID-19. Five patients had a known history of dental caries. On physical examination, it was determined that all patients had dental caries in the area corresponding to the infection site. Four patients required abscess drainage, all of whom were presenting in the second year of COVID-19, we isolated Eikenella corrodens, Streptococcus anginosus and Streptococcus intermedius microorganisms in 3 patients. The mean duration of hospitalization was 5.3±3 days. In conclusion, COVID-19 quarantine causes an increase in odontogenic cervicofacial infection requiring intravenous antibiotics and abscess drainage.
Pneumococcal Meningitis with Serotype 7 Who Develops 12. Nerve Paralysis
Authors: Kılınç Fatma , Tapaç Nisa Nur , Çay Ümmühan , Özgür Gündeşlioğlu Özlem , Alabaz Derya
Published: June 2023

Meningitis is an inflammatory disease of the leptomeninges surrounding the spinal cord and brain. Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) is the most common cause of bacterial meningitis in infants and children older than one month. In this report, we present a 13-month-old infant who, after receiving three doses of the 13-valent conjugated pneumococcal vaccine, had nervus hypoglossus paralysis as a result of serotype 7 S. pneumoniae meningitis. She was admitted into our center with complaints of high fever for 2 days, apathy that started in the last 24 hours, and a tendency for sleeping. Penicillin and ceftriaxone susceptible S. pneumoniae grew in cerebrospinal fluid culture. Antibiotic treatment was completed in six weeks as she had a millimetric abscess in MR imaging. Considering common variable immunodeficiency in the patient who was examined for immunodeficiency, intravenous immunoglobulin treatment was started. The physical examination results of the patient were entirely improved. In conclusion, meningitis is a pediatric emergency with a high mortality and complication rate. If meningitis is managed on time and correctly it can heal without sequelae. Vaccination is crucial for prevention. Despite vaccination, although rare, infection with vaccine strains may occur. Patients infected with vaccine strains may require evaluation in terms of immunodeficiency.
Kidney Tumors in Children
Authors: Akyol Şefika
Published: June 2023

Wilms tumor (WT) is an embryonal tumor of the kidneys. It is associated with many oncogenic genetic aberrations and congenital anomalies. Owing to worldwide clinical research and optimized patient care, curative therapy can be obtained in 90% of diagnosed children with WT. The decision of treatment mainly depends on stage, age, histological type, and genetic markers. Except for WT; congenital mesoblastic nephroma, clear cell sarcoma, malignant rhabdoid tumor, and renal cell carcinoma constitute 5% of kidney tumors. Herein, WT and other tumors of the kidney will be emphasized.
Variétés histologiques des tumeurs bénignes du septum nasal : une série documentaire de 30 cas
Authors: Kharoubi Smail
Published: June 2023

Context and objectives. Histological varieties of nasal septal tumors are poorly documented in African countries. The objective of the present study was to describe the histological varieties of benign septal tumors. Methods. This was a retrospective analysis of records of patients admitted for benign septal tumors between January 1998 and August 2021 at the Dr. Dorban Hospital in Algeria. The variables of interest included clinical and histopathological data. Results. In 23 years, only 30 cases of benign nasal septal tumors were collected. Their mean age was 36.2 years with extremes between 13 and 70 years with a predominance of the female sex (63.3%). Vascular tumors were predominant (83.3 %), in particular capillary hemangiomas (92 %) followed by epithelial varieties (13.3 %) and a single pleomorphic septal adenoma. The clinical evolution was marked by 3 recurrences for the hemangiomas, and no recurrence for the pleomorphic adenoma after 120 months of follow-up. Three other cases were lost. Conclusion. Benign tumors of the nasal septum are rare and histologically diversified. Besides the classical and common forms (hemangiomas, papillomas, adenomas), there are rare varieties that require a specific study and a dedicated expertise.

Contexte et objectif. Les variétés histologiques de tumeurs du septum nasal sont peu documentées dans les pays d’Afrique. La présenté étude avait pour objectif de décrire les variétés histologiques de tumeurs septales bénignes. Méthodes. C’était une analyse rétrospective de dossiers des patients admis pour tumeurs septales bénignes, entre janvier 1998 et aout 2021 ; à l’hôpital Dr Dorban en Algérie. Les variables d’intérêt englobaient les données cliniques et histopathologiques. Résultats. En 23 ans, seulement trente dossiers de tumeurs bénignes du septum nasal ont été colligés. Leur âge moyen était de 36,2 ans avec les extrêmes entre 13 et 70 ans avec une prédominance du sexe féminin (63,3 %). Les tumeurs vasculaires étaient prépondérantes (83,3 %) en particulier les hémangiomes capillaires (92 %) suivies des variétés épithéliales (13,3%) et un seul adénome pléomorphe septal. L’évolution clinique était émaillée par récidives pour les hémangiomes, et absence de récidive pour l’adénome pléomorphe après 120 mois de recul. Trois autres cas étaient perdus. Conclusion: Les tumeurs bénignes du septum nasal sont rares et diversifiées sur le plan histologique. A coté des formes classiques et communes (hémangiomes, papillomes, adénomes), il existe des variétés rares et qui nécessitent une étude spécifique et une expertise dédiée.
Lymphome B diffus à grandes cellules splénique primitif : une cause rare de splénomégalie isolée
Authors: Benmoussa Amine , Tlohi Kawtar , Qachouh Maryam , Khoubila Nisrine , Cherkaoui Siham , Lmchaheb Mouna , Rachid Mohamed , Madani Abdellah
Published: June 2023

Primary splenic non-Hodgkin lymphoma is extremely rare, characterized by isolated splenic disease without other lymphoma locations. It’s most often revealed by isolated splenomegaly. We report the case of a 43-year-old female patient with an isolated massive splenomegaly. The etiological investigations were normal, however the diagnostic and therapeutic splenectomy was performed and revealed a diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The patient received a post-splenectomy chemotherapy that had a favorable outcome after two years of follow-up.

Le lymphome non hodgkinien splénique primitif est une entité extrêmement rare rapportée dans la littérature. Il est caractérisé par une atteinte splénique isolée sans autres localisations lymphomateuses au diagnostic, d’où l’intérêt d’y penser quand elle est d’origine indéterminée. Nous rapportons le cas d’une patiente âgée de 4 ans présentant une volumineuse splénomégalie isolée, les investigations à visée étiologique sont normales, une splénectomie dans un but diagnostique et thérapeutique est réalisée, objectivant un lymphome non hodgkinien à grandes cellules B. Une chimiothérapie post splénectomie est administrée. L’évolution est favorable après 2 ans de recul.
Association entre pancréatite aigue et hyperparathyroïdie : à propos de deux cas observés à Antananarive
Authors: Ernestho-ghoud Indretsy Mahavivola , Rasoaherinomenjanahary Fanjandrainy , Narindra Ny Ony , Rajaonarison Lova Hasina , Samson Luc Hervé , Ahmad Ahmad
Published: June 2023

Acute pancreatitis (AP) associated to the hyperparathyroidism (PHPT) has been rarely reported, particularly from Sub-saharan Africa. So, we aimed to report a case that illustrates interactions between AP and PHPT. The case consists of a 23-year-old woman who developed AP, primary hyperparathyroidism and hypercalcemia. And the second case consists of 30 years old woman who developed AP, secondary hyperparathyroidism and hypocalcemia. AP and hyperparathyroidism were considered unrelated and their coexistence was attributed to independent hypercalcemia and high level of parathormone.

La pancréatite aiguë (PA) est rarement associée à l’hyperparathyroïdie, en particulier en Afrique Subsaharienne. Nous rapportons deux cas cliniques épinglant l’interaction possible entre la PA et l’hyperparathyroïdie. Il s’agissait d’une part d’une patiente âgée de 2 ans, présentant une PA et une hyperparathyroïdie primaire associée à une hypercalcémie, et d’autre part une patiente de 30 ans, suivie pour une pancréatite aiguë associée à une hyperparathyroïdie secondaire avec une hypocalcémie. La PA et l’hyperparathyroïdie étaient considérées comme indépendants et leur coexistence était attribuée à des processus indépendants liés à l’hypercalcémie et l’hyperparathormonémie.
Evolutionary trend of the significant decrease in histopathological conditions associated with neglected tropical diseases at the Kinshasa University Hospital in 51 years: Fake or reality?
Authors: Sumaili EK
Published: June 2023

No abstract.
Goutte tophacée Sévère : Une observation clinique particulière
Authors: Chabchoub Imen , Salah Raida Ben , Frikha Olfa , Frikha Faten , Marzouk Sameh , Bahloul Zouhir
Published: June 2023

Tophaceous gout is the osteoarticular and cutaneous expression of chronic hyperuricaemia that can occur years after recurrent attacks of acute inflammatory arthropathies. This metabolic complication is increasingly rare. We report the particular observation of a patient with "historical" tophaceous gout and severely handicapped by polyarticular involvement and skin tophi.

French Abstract

La goutte tophacée est l'expression ostéo-articulaire et cutanée d'une hyperuricémie chronique qui peut survenir des années après des crises récurrentes d'arthropathies inflammatoires aiguës. Cette complication métabolique est de plus en plus rare. Nous rapportons l’observation particulière d’un patient présentant une goutte tophacée « historique » sévèrement handicapé par l’atteinte polyarticulaire et les tophi cutanés.

Mots-clés: Tophus, goutte, arthropathie goutteuse
Information Sources and Needs among Mango (Mangifera Indica L.) Farmers in the Shai Osudoku District, Greater Accra Region, Ghana
Authors: Manteaw S.A. , Folitse B.Y. , Mingle N.A.
Published: June 2023

This paper seeks to examine and understand the information-seeking behaviour of farmers in terms of their information needs, sources and challenges.  Structured questionnaires were administered randomly to 125 mango farmers selected from the Shai Osudoku District of the Greater Accra Region.  Besides, one focus group discussion section with the executives of the District mango farmer-based organisation and one-on-one in-depth interview  session with the Head of Department of Agriculture in the District were held, coupled with farm visits for personal observations to make for triangulation  with the quantitative data. The study showed that radio, leaflets and family/friends remained the first option of choice as sources of information to the  mango famers. On the other hand, the Internet, books, newspapers and extension agents emerged as the least sources of preference to the farmers.  Selection of varieties/hybrids, pests and disease management and pruning of tree crops were perceived by the farmers as the most pressing information  needs, which, to them, were critical to the success of their mango farming business. The study also showed a strong positive relationship (p<0.05)  between age of the mango farmers and the use of information. Furthermore, the results revealed that number of years spent on formal education  positively correlated (p<0.05) with the use of information from family/friends, books, agricultural input dealers, leaflets and radio. These findings will  inform agricultural extension programme planning of the District and the Greater Accra Region, as a whole.
Prediction of Tea Production in Rwanda Using Data Mining Techniques
Authors: Umutoni C. , Ngaruye I.
Published: June 2023

Rwanda's main economic activity is agriculture, and tea is the country's most important cash crop. There has been extensive research on prediction of tea  production in Rwanda but most of the methods applied were the traditional statistical analyzes with limited prediction capability. Data mining  algorithm models, linear regression, K-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Random Forest Regression, and Extremely Randomized Trees are discussed in this study  to identify critical features in different domains to facilitate accurate prediction of tea production in Rwanda. In this study also, an identification of  different factors which are strongly associated with tea production and developed data mining models for predicting tea production using training and  test data from National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) 2010-2019 is performed and PYTHON, R, and SPSS Version 25 softwares used in  this study. The findings reveal that extra tree and random forest are the best model among the others to predict tea production in Rwanda.

 

French title: Prévision de la production de thé au Rwanda à l'aide de techniques d'exploration de données

La principale activité économique du Rwanda est l'agriculture, et le thé est la culture de rente la plus importante du pays. De nombreuses recherches ont été menées sur la prédiction de la production de thé au Rwanda, mais la plupart des méthodes appliquées étaient des analyses statistiques  traditionnelles avec une capacité de prédiction limitée. Les modèles d'algorithmes d'exploration de données, la régression linéaire, le K-Nearest Neighbor  (KNN), la régression Random Forest et les arbres extrêmement randomisés sont discutés dans cette étude pour identifier les caractéristiques  critiques dans différents domaines afin de faciliter la prédiction précise de la production de thé au Rwanda. Dans cette étude également, une  identification des différents facteurs qui sont fortement associés à la production de thé et des modèles d'exploration de données développés pour  prédire la production de thé en utilisant des données d'entraînement et de test du National Agricultural Export Development Board (NAEB) 2010-2019 est  effectuée et les logiciels PYTHON, R, et SPSS Version 25 sont utilisés dans cette étude. Les résultats révèlent que l'arbre supplémentaire et la forêt  aléatoire sont les meilleurs modèles parmi les autres pour prédire la production de thé au Rwanda.
Characterisation and in-vitro Control of Curvularia lunata , the Causal Agent of Brown Leaf Spot Disease of Rice in Ghana
Authors: Honger J.O. , Lomotey T. , Kugblenu-Darrah Y. , Bedu I. , Amankwa N.Y.
Published: June 2023

Irrigated rice production is common in the coastal savannah zone of Ghana. Recent observations have shown the incidence of a new leaf spot disease in  some rice basins in the area. Research was carried out to determine the incidence and severity of the disease in the area, identify the causal agent using  its cultural and morphological features, complemented with phylogenetic studies of the internal transcribed spacer region. Also, the effect of some  selected fungicides and an antagonistic Trichoderma harzianum on the mycelial growth of the fungus was determined in vitro. The disease was found in  all the major rice growing districts in the coastal savannah zone with severities ranging from 22.6 to 50.9%. Curvularia lunata was identified as the causal  agent of the disease. Carbendazim, Nordox and Mancozeb, totally depressed the mycelial growth of the fungus whiles T. harzianum inhibited the growth  of the fungus. These fungicides and antagonistic organism have the potential for the control of the disease in the field.
Effect of Drying Temperature on Proximate Composition and Viability of Maize Dried in a Solar Biomass Hybrid Dryer
Authors: Akowuah J.O. , Mensah L.D. , Obah-Lateo P. , Obeng-Akrof G.
Published: June 2023

Maize is an important cereal produced for food and feed and its nutritional composition and viability could be affected when subjected to inappropriate  drying conditions. This study investigated the effects of drying temperature on the proximate composition and viability of maize grains dried at different  levels in a solar biomass hybrid dryer. Proximate analysis was performed using standard A.O.A.C. methods. Germination test was done using sterilized  Petri–dishes lined with filter papers to determine the viability of dried grains. Overall mean temperature, 43.63 ± 8.6 ˚C in the dryer was 9 ˚C higher than  the average ambient temperature. The moisture content (MC) of grains in the dryer reduced from average 17 % to 11 % (w.b.) in 8 h at an average drying  rate of 0.64 %/h. The overall drying efficiency was 12.7 % compared to 5.7 % for the open-sun drying process. The viability of grains dried in the dryer  (avg. 95%) compared favourably to the viability of sun-dried grains (96%). The results show that, the temperature in the dryer had no adverse effect on  the proximate nutritional composition and viability of dried maize grains. The adoption of solar biomass hybrid dryers for use by smallholder farmers is  encouraged due to its suitability in providing a viable drying option to open-sun drying.
Microbial Quality of Fresh Beef from Different Slaughter Facilities in Oyo State, Nigeria
Authors: Awojimi I. , Adesida O. , Adediran O.A. , Awodoyin O.R. , Omojola A.B.
Published: June 2023

This study was done to assess the microbial quality of fresh beef samples, water and contact surfaces from selected slaughter facilities in Oyo state,  Nigeria. In a completely randomized design, a total of 127 samples were collected from three different slaughter facilities. They were analyzed for  microbial load using standard procedures. Parameters measured were Total Viable Count (TVC), Total Coliform Count (TCC), Total Fungal Count (TFC), Total  Escherichia coli Count (TEC), Total Staphylococcus Count (TSC) and Total Salmonella Count (TSLC). The results showed no significant differences  (P<0.05) between the mean TVC and TFC of the fresh meat samples collected from the slaughter facilities. However, significant differences existed (P<0.05)  between the means of the TCC (log CFU/g) of the beef. The values were 2.30, 1.82 and 10 1.91 for Akinyele central abattoir, Kara Sawmill  slaughter slab and Atenda slaughter slab respectively. The TVC, TFC, TCC values recorded for this study were below the standard threshold levels. The  presence of Staphylococcus spp, Escherichia coli and Salmonella spp on contact surfaces indicates that the hygienic practices of butchers and general  sanitary conditions of the slaughter house facilities are poor, therefore stricter hygiene practices are recommended in Nigerian slaughter houses and  abattoirs to safeguard public health.
Emerging issues around transhumance migration from the Sahel region and Nigeria’s national security
Authors: Abubakar Lawal Adamu
Published: June 2023

Nigeria has recorded in the annals of its historical development monumental internal security challenges occasioned by the activities of non- state actors such as Boko Haram, and in recent past, bandits associated with transhumance and irregular migration into the country. The main discourse is on transhumance migration which revolves around the debates in the public domain that link almost entirely the Nigeria‟s security situation to the activities of herdsmen that migrate through the corridors of the Sahel region. The paper relied on qualitative data collected from secondary sources. Findings in the paper revealed that despite the high-level of violence being perpetrated by non-state actors in Nigeria, pastoralists-perpetrated violence accounts for only 16 %. Pastoralist violence is only one part of the different overlapping conflicts in the country. The paper recommended for review the domestication and full operationalization of the ECOWAS protocol on the regulation of transhumance 1998 by member states.
Empirical analysis of poverty eradication and its determinants in Rwanda: lessons from China
Authors: Bikorimana Gerard , Uwizeye Dieudonne , Ndikumana Celestin
Published: June 2023

This paper analyzed empirically the lessons Rwanda learned on poverty reduction strategies used by China. The simulations were made using the Fixed Effect Model where the coefficients of explanatory variables were constant or the same for both countries to reflect how poverty reduction strategies used by both countries result in the same outcomes and relatively the same output. Outcomes from simulations revealed that Adjusted Net Saving, government spending, citizen‟s empowerment, education for all and Foreign Direct Investments strategies used and drawn from Chinese economy by Rwanda are statistically significant; hence reduced poverty in both economies. In the light of the findings, the study recommended to policy makers a strong review of their empowerment strategies since it was the only explanatory variable which was not statistically significant in the model. It also recommended that women empowerment in political, social and economic aspects must be accompanied by youths‟ empowerment in those domains as the main driving forces of both economies.
A comparative study of work-family balance between male and female academic staff of selected universities in Osun State Nigeria
Authors: Ojo-Ebenezer Osayekemwen Teddy , Olofin Funke Temidayo
Published: June 2023

Maintaining a healthy balance between one's professional and family roles is a growing difficulty for both employees and employers. This study is a comparative study of work-family balance between male and female academic staff of selected universities in Osun state. It was aimed at understanding the significant relationship between work-related experiences and work-family balance among male and female academic staff. A systematically random sampling technique was used to select the respondents. Statistical methods such as percentages, means, standard deviations and regression analysis were used for the study. The findings indicated that the differences in coping strategies and the ability to maintain a healthy work-family balance between male and female academic staff at both universities were not statistically significant. In other words, male academics employed a smaller number of techniques than their female counterparts. It was recommended that universities implement institutional policies in order to demonstrate their commitment to creating a family- and worker-friendly environment.
Curbing cyberbullying on Facebook: An analysis of mitigation strategies in universities in Kenya
Authors: Ogolla Erick , Kwanya Tom , Kibe Lucy , Kogos Angella , Onsare Claudior
Published: June 2023

Cyberbullying is the wilful and repeated use of electronic devices and platforms to harm others. It is becoming increasingly practised amongst university students in digital spaces. This paper examines the mitigation strategies Kenyan university students and administrators adopt to help curb cyberbullying. The study underpinning this paper applied mixed methods research approach employing both qualitative and quantitative studies. The total population of undergraduate students was 610,563, while that of the dean of students was 49. The study used stratified and information-oriented sampling techniques. The study sample comprised 4,770 undergraduate students and 24 deans of students from 16 public and eight private chartered universities in Kenya. Quantitative data was collected from the students using questionnaires. Qualitative data was also collected from the students using focus group discussions and deans of students using key informant interviews. The study's findings indicate that students responded to cyberbullying by enhancing their online security, blocking perpetrators of cyberbullying, flagging and reporting offenders, seeking counselling, and taking legal action against them. The effectiveness of these strategies varied depending on the type of cyberbullying suffered. The authors conclude that cyberbullying is a prevalent socio-technological ill affecting undergraduate students in universities in Kenya. A myriad of strategies to cope with the vice has been adopted. However, this paper recommends concerted efforts of the students, deans of students, universities, government, and society in devising and implementing comprehensive strategies for curbing cyberbullying in universities in Kenya.
Librarians’ ICT skills and service delivery in private universities in Nigeria
Authors: Ilesanmi Titilayo C.
Published: June 2023

This paper examined the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) skills of librarians for service delivery in private universities with particular reference to Southern Nigeria. The study adopted the survey research method. Forty-five (45) private university libraries in Southern Nigeria and their librarians constituted the sample size for the study. The study’s samples consisted of 181 librarians in the private universities, hence, total enumeration was adopted. Questionnaire was used for data collection from the respondents. Out of the 181 copies of the questionnaire distributed, 173 were returned and found valid for analysis. Data gathered was analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) Version 21 and the results were presented in frequency count, percentage, mean and chart. Findings of the study revealed that librarians in private universities in Southern Nigeria delivered various library services to their users. The librarians have acquired basic ICT skills and were versatile in its application for Internet searches, information retrieval, social communication and Microsoft-office related activities with the exception of programming skills. Majority of the librarians acquired their ICT skills through self-learning. The finding revealed that the acquisition of ICT skills by librarians in Southern Nigeria private universities is relevant to their delivery of improved library services. The paper recommended that regular acquisition of relevant ICT skills is essential for librarians and university management should support librarians’ ICT capacity development at national and international levels as this would enhance their relevance and get them abreast of the latest development for effective service delivery.