bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A scoping review of shoulder kinesthetic function in individuals with diabetes mellitus, with and without frozen shoulder
Authors: Varghese Neena , Shetty Mamta S. , Mullerpatan Rajani Prashant
Published: June 2024

Background:

Kinesthesia, the ability to perceive movements, is diminished in individuals with type II diabetes mellitus. People with frozen shoulders also experience kinesthetic deficits. Thus, obtaining accurate information on shoulder kinesthetic function in individuals with diabetes mellitus, both with and without a frozen shoulder, will aid in developing preventive and therapeutic strategies to optimize shoulder function.

Aim:

The study aims to investigate kinesthetic deficits in the shoulder among individuals with diabetes mellitus, both with and without frozen shoulder.

Materials and Methods:

A thorough literature search was performed using PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, and Science Direct. Free full-text articles in English, published from 2010 to October 2020, were identified using keywords and MeSH terms. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed based on the PICO format. The search results were then screened to identify relevant articles for this scoping review.

Results:

This review included fourteen articles, encompassing systematic reviews, cross-sectional studies, and prospective studies. Six studies examined the impact of diabetes mellitus on shoulder kinesthesia. These kinesthetic deficits adversely affected basic daily activities, recreational pursuits, and occupational tasks.

Conclusion:

Reduced kinesthetic function in the shoulder is attributed to structural changes such as capsular tightness, alterations in the fascicle length of rotator cuff muscles, the long head of the biceps, and glenohumeral joint laxity. Factors contributing to the loss of kinesthetic function include muscular fatigue from repetitive shoulder motion, limited joint mobility, blood glucose levels, and decreased muscle strength. This study provides valuable insights for clinicians to design rehabilitation programs, enhance shoulder function, and prevent re-injury risk.
Aging gracefully: navigating the journey of growing older
Authors: Olorunfemi Olaolorunpo , Irinoye Oluwapelumi Kehinde
Published: June 2024

This study aims to explore the concept of aging gracefully, probing beyond just physical appearance to embrace the acceptance of changes that come with age and leading a fulfilled life. This study was conducted through a review of literature from 2018 to 2023 using Google Scholar and other databases and focused on keywords such as “aging gracefully,” “navigating,” and “journey of growing older.” It identified various themes, including the journey of aging, the steps involved in aging gracefully, the significance of embracing aging, and the epigenetic theory of aging, shedding light on how individuals can traverse this path. In conclusion, aging gracefully entails preserving physical health, emotional well-being, and having a good attitude as you age. To accomplish this, we need to stay active with different kinds of workouts, eat a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, maintain social connections, and stimulate our brain by engaging in hobbies such as reading and puzzles. Regular check-ups, stress management, skin protection, and healthy behaviors such as getting adequate sleep, reducing alcohol consumption, and quitting smoking are all vital. We should embrace the changes that come with aging and focus on the positive aspects of life to traverse this path gracefully. With this awareness, individuals can face aging with acceptance and vitality, leading life with grace and fulfillment.
A comparative study on the efficacy of over-the-counter wax solvents versus distilled water for managing ear cerumen
Authors: Ahmad Syed. Mohd. , Suman Rajesh Kumar , Pal Simran Kaur , Agrawal Ayush
Published: June 2024

Background:

Ear wax, or cerumen, is a naturally occurring hydrophobic waxy substance frequently encountered in otorhinolaryngology practices. Despite the abundance of water- and oil-based ceruminolytic agents available nowadays, there remains a lack of consensus regarding the preferred agent type, composition, or ideal treatment duration.

Aims and Objectives:

The study aimed to assess the efficacy of using distilled water as a wax-softening agent for ear wax removal and determine its advantages compared to over-the-counter (OTC) ceruminolytics.

Materials and Methods:

This double-masked, randomized prospective cohort study enrolled 236 patients seeking treatment for ear wax-related concerns at the Ear, Nose, Throat outpatient department. The cohort exclusively consisted of cases involving right ear wax, which were then randomly allocated into two groups: group A received distilled water ear drops, whereas group B received OTC ceruminolytic ear drops containing a combination of paradichlorobenzene with turpentine oil, benzocaine, and chlorbutol. Evaluation of patients took place pre- and post-intervention, focusing on three key parameters: the total duration required for ear suctioning, any additional instrumentation employed, and the occurrence of pre-procedure and post-procedure complications.

Results:

Out of the total 118 participants in the study, they were randomly distributed with 67 males and 51 females in group A and 63 males and 55 females in group B. During the pre-intervention complication assessment, nine subjects in group A reported ear blockage, whereas four subjects in group B did so. Additionally, two subjects in group A complained of pain, whereas none in group B did. Furthermore, five subjects in group A developed otitis externa, compared with three in group B. The average time required for ear suctioning to visualize the tympanic membrane was 9.24 ± 2.50 min in group A and 9.68 ± 2.18 min in group B. During the intervention, nine subjects in group A experienced pain during wax removal, whereas only six patients in Group B reported pain. After the interventions, five patients in group A complained of increased ear pain compared with seven in group B. Mild post-interventional pain was managed with an as-needed dosage of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs Statistically significant differences were observed in the study parameters between the subjects of the two groups.

Conclusion:

This study confirms that distilled water can serve as a viable method for dispersing wax, proving its efficacy comparable with commercially available OTC ceruminolytics.
Progress in Managing Heart Failure: an in-depth Review of Sacubitril/Valsartan Combination Therapy
Authors: Hiremath Neeraj , Hiremath Jayasheela S. , Nyamagoud Sanatkumar B. , Viswanatha Swamy Agadi Hiremath
Published: June 2024

Heart failure is a severe cardiovascular condition when the heart fails to adequately pump blood or oxygen to support the body’s organs. Sacubitril/valsartan, an emerging angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) known for its superior efficacy to conventional treatments, has revolutionized the management of heart failure. The United States Food and Drug Administration has approved the drug’s use in treating patients with chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). Clinical trials have demonstrated its effectiveness in reducing hospitalizations and mortality rates associated with heart failure across various patient populations, including those with low ejection fraction. Numerous significant clinical trials have investigated the drug’s safety and efficacy in treating individuals with heart failure and a failing systemic right ventricle. This review delves into the current landscape of cardiovascular medicine, the role of pharmacology, and the safety profile of this medication.
Cardiac amyloidosis – A rarely acknowledged cause of heart failure: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Papani Sridhar , Reddy V. Nihanth , Gudala Stitha Pragna , Vidya K.
Published: June 2024

Amyloidosis is characterized by the precipitation of insoluble, misfolded, fibrillary proteins in the extracellular matrix in the form of beta-pleated sheets, leading to the loss of normal tissue architecture and ultimately organ dysfunction. The manifestations of the disease are due to the noxious effects of aggregated proteins (Amyloid) deposited in the tissues. Amyloidosis involves multiple organs, including the heart, kidneys, liver, soft tissues, peripheral and/or autonomic nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract. Cardiac amyloidosis is one of the myriad manifestations of systemic amyloidosis. It is characterized by extracellular deposition of amyloid fibrils, leading to progressive cardiac failure. We report a case of a 54-year-old male, who presented to us with a history of exertional dyspnea for the past 2 years with left ventricular systolic and diastolic dysfunction unexplained by the coronary anatomy. The findings on cardiac imaging led us to the suspicion of cardiac amyloidosis. Further, evaluation with an abdominal fat pad and rectal mucosal biopsy confirmed amyloidosis.
Primary small-bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumor presenting with severe anemia: A report of two cases
Authors: Avula Sarath Kumar , Lingudu Chaitanya , Puligilla Akhil , Joshi Nivedita , Challa Anusha R. , Reddy M. N. Lakshmikanth
Published: June 2024

Gastrointestinal stromal tumors are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that commonly occur in the stomach and small intestine and can occur anywhere from the esophagus to the anus. We are reporting two cases with identical presentations of severe anemia and abdominal discomfort, which revealed the diagnosis of primary small-bowel gastrointestinal stromal tumour (GIST), on computed tomography (CT), as standard endoscopy investigations failed to reveal the cause for the anemia. Both patients underwent surgical resection for the lesions and histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of GIST. After surgical management, hemoglobin levels of both patients improved, and were discharged with uneventful postoperative course. These case reports stress the importance of contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) scans, for investigating anemia, along with the standard endoscopy tests.
Congenital muscular torticollis
Authors: Basarahalli Madhu Mohan Reddy , Keerthi Suna
Published: June 2024

Torticollis is a clinical condition in which there are head tilt on the affected side and chin lift toward the contralateral side. Congenital muscular torticollis is the second most common cause of congenital musculoskeletal deformities. Torticollis is one of the most common causes of postural deformity. Congenital muscular torticollis is the most common cause of torticollis, others being nonmuscular causes. The incidence of congenital muscular torticollis is ranging from 0.2% to 3%. We report a 3-year-old female child with muscular torticollis with facial asymmetry. The child was investigated. Computed tomography was normal. The child was treated with sternocleidomastoid release. In this case, we emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and early intervention.
Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Organ Donation among Students of Jazan University: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Ahmed Anas E. , Shajeri Mohammed Abulghaith , Ayashi Salem M. , Hurubi Mohammed Y. , Moafa Fahad H. , Sumayli Ahmed H. , Awadalla Sarah M.
Published: July 2024

For several end-stage diseases, the only treatment option is organ transplantation, but the availability of organs is a challenge. More thorough knowledge and more positive attitudes toward organ donation among university students may encourage greater willingness to donate an organ. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding organ donation among students of Jazan University, Saudi Arabia, via a 30-item questionnaire. Of the 558 respondents, 71.1% were males, 28.9% were females, and 92.1% were <25 years old. The participants were categorized as either in health-related colleges or other colleges. Differences in the level of knowledge were significant among age groups, with 19.5% of those aged 21–25 years having a high level compared with 2.3% of those aged 26+ years. Participants in health-related colleges had significantly higher levels of knowledge than those in other colleges. Differences between males and females were not significant. Regarding attitudes toward organ donation, some factors were significant (P ≤0.05). Positive attitudes were reported by 72% of males compared with 58% of females. Students in a health-related specialty and those in other specialties showed significant differences, but these were not found for educational level. In practice, 9.86% had an organ donation card; the only significant factors were age and specialty. Here, the participants’ level of knowledge was low to medium, attitudes were negative, and most were not ready to donate organs. We recommend establishing educational campaigns on organ donation to increase knowledge, attitudes, and willingness to participate in this vital public service.
The Prevalence and Clinicopathological Spectrum of Nondiabetic Renal Disease in Patients with Diabetes in a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Anbuselvam Bharathisezhian , Panneerselvam Senthilkumar Ramaiah , Thoppalan Balasubramaniyan , Kumar Manoj
Published: July 2024

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a major complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), leading to end-stage renal disease. A wide spectrum of nondiabetic renal diseases (NDRDs) is reported in type 2 DM. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with type 2 DM who underwent a kidney biopsy from September 2019 to November 2021 at our center. Patients were grouped as having isolated DN, isolated NDRD, or mixed NDRD with underlying DN. According to the 379 renal biopsies performed during the study period, 57 patients had DM. The prevalence of DN, isolated NDRD, and combined pathologies was 36.8%, 35.1%, and 28.1%, respectively. The most common NDRD was infection-related glomerulonephritis (IRGN) (50.0%), followed by membranous nephropathy (3.0%), focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (10%), pyelonephritis (10%), minimal change disease (1.8%), fibrillary glomerulonephritis (1.8%), and ANCA-associated vasculitis (1.8%). The most common pathological finding of NDRD in the mixed group was IRGN (56.3%), followed by acute tubular injury (31.3%). The duration of DM was significantly shorter (4.8 ± 2.3 years vs. 9.7 ± 3.3 years, P = 0.035) in NDRD patients compared with patients with DN. NDRD was observed in 15% and mixed lesions in 25% of patients, with concomitant diabetic retinopathy (P = 0.029). We conclude that with increasing evidence of NDRD even in patients with DN, careful application of renal biopsies in diabetic patients would assist in the early diagnosis and institution of specific therapy for NDRD to ensure better patient and renal survival.
Quality of Life among Hemodialysis Patients: Role of the Dialysis Shift
Authors: Nowrooz Safa , Alanazi Turki , Al-Ghamdi Abdulmohsen , Alzahrani Abdulaziz , Alshammari Abdulrahman , AlYaqoot Neda , Almutraid Mana , Jaradat Ahmed , El-Agroudy Amgad
Published: July 2024

This study examined the effects of the time of hemodialysis (HD) on patients’ quality of life (QOL). This study included 175 HD patients (116 males, 59 females), aged 18–80 years (mean = 58.1 ± 11.3 years). Shift 1 was 7:00–11:00 AM, Shift 2 was 12:00–4:00 PM, Shift 3 was 5:00–9:00 PM, and Shift 4 was 10:00–2:00 AM (38, 38, 43, and 56 patients, respectively). Those on Shift 4 had a higher mean age compared with the other shifts, with a higher number of widowed people (8.6%). The proportions of males and females showed no significant differences among the shifts. The mean duration on dialysis was 42.1 ± 39.3 months, with a shorter duration for Shift 4. We observed the highest QOL score for the psychological and spiritual subscale, followed by the family subscale. Half the patients were dissatisfied with their jobs and had less satisfaction with their sexual life, their education, and getting a kidney transplant. We found a significant difference in overall QOL among shifts, with the greatest difference between Shifts 3 and 4. Health and functioning, psychological and spiritual, and social and economic scores were lowest in Shift 4, which was significantly different from Shift 1 and Shift 3. We found significant associations between overall QOL and general health, and the scores from different domains. Satisfaction was moderate in all groups. The study revealed poor QOL among Shift 4 patients; hence, they need more support in clinical practice guidelines.
Antihypertensive and Antioxidant Effects of an Aqueous Extract of Asafetida in Renovascular Hypertensive Rats
Authors: Kazemi Farzaneh , Mohebbati Reza , Shafei Mohammad Naser
Published: July 2024

Recently, the effect of an aqueous extract of asafetida on acute angiotensin II hypertensive rats was evaluated. The present study evaluated the antihypertensive and antioxidant effects of asafetida on a rat model of renovascular hypertension (RVH) using four groups. RVH was induced by clipping the renal artery; the sham group underwent surgery but without clipping. The RVH rats received losartan (Los, an AT1 receptor antagonist) or asafetida by gavage for 4 weeks. On the 28th day, the femoral artery was cannulated, and the systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and heart rate (HR) were recorded. Finally, the levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total thiol content in the kidney and heart tissues were measured. In RVH rats, SBP and MAP significantly increased compared with the control. Los and the extract significantly reduced the changes in SBP, MAP, and HR that were induced in the RVH rats (P <0.05–0.001). In RVH rats, levels of MDA significantly increased and the content of total thiol and SOD decreased in both the heart and kidney tissues. Los plus the extract significantly decreased MDA and increased total thiol and SOD in the heart and kidney tissues. We concluded that an aqueous extract of asafetida gum has antihypertensive and antioxidant effects in the RVH rat model. The effect of the extract is similar to that of Los, which suggests that this effect of asafetida is mediated via an effect on the angiotensin Type I receptor.
Staircase patterns in Hirzebruch surfaces
Authors: Magill Nicki , McDuff Dusa , Weiler Morgan
Published: July 2024

The ellipsoidal capacity function of a symplectic four manifold

X

measures how much the form on

X

must be dilated in order for it to admit an embedded ellipsoid of eccentricity

z

. In most cases there are just finitely many obstructions to such an embedding besides the volume. If there are infinitely many obstructions,

X

is said to have a staircase. This paper gives an almost complete description of the staircases in the ellipsoidal capacity functions of the family of symplectic Hirzebruch surfaces

H_{b}

formed by blowing up the projective plane with weight

b

. We describe an interweaving, recursively defined, family of obstructions to symplectic embeddings of ellipsoids that show there is an open dense set of shape parameters

b

that are blocked, i.e. have no staircase, and an uncountable number of other values of

b

that do admit staircases. The remaining

b

-values form a countable sequence of special rational numbers that are closely related to the symmetries discussed in Magill–McDuff (arXiv:2106.09143). We show that none of them admit ascending staircases. Conjecturally, none admit descending staircases. Finally, we show that, as long as

b

is not one of these special rational values, any staircase in

H_{b}

has irrational accumulation point. A crucial ingredient of our proofs is the new, more indirect approach to using almost toric fibrations in the analysis of staircases by Magill (arXiv:2204.12460). In particular, the structure of the relevant mutations of the set of almost toric fibrations on

H_{b}

is echoed in the structure of the set of blocked

b

-intervals.
Compressed decision problems in hyperbolic groups
Authors: Holt Derek , Lohrey Markus , Schleimer Saul
Published: July 2024

We prove that, for any hyperbolic group, the compressed word and the compressed conjugacy problems are solvable in polynomial time. As a consequence, the word problem for the (outer) automorphism group of a hyperbolic group is solvable in polynomial time. We also prove that the compressed simultaneous conjugacy and the compressed centraliser problems are solvable in polynomial time. Finally, we prove that, for any infinite hyperbolic group, the compressed knapsack problem is

\mathrm{NP}

-complete.
On homology torsion growth
Authors: Abert Miklos , Bergeron Nicolas , Frączyk Mikołaj , Gaboriau Damien
Published: July 2024

We prove new vanishing results on the growth of higher torsion homologies for suitable arithmetic lattices, Artin groups and mapping class groups. The growth is understood along Farber sequences, in particular, along residual chains. For principal congruence subgroups, we also obtain strong asymptotic bounds for the torsion growth. As a central tool, we introduce a quantitative homotopical method called effective rebuilding. This constructs small classifying spaces of finite index subgroups, at the same time controlling the complexity of the homotopy. The method easily applies to free abelian groups and then extends recursively to a wide class of residually finite groups.
Vitamin D Levels in Growth-Paining Children
Authors: Günbey Ömer , Gürgöze Metin Kaya , Günbey Fatma Betül
Published: July 2024

The most common cause of non-inflammatory recurrent musculoskeletal pain in children is growing pains. History and physical examination are often sufficient to diagnose these patients. Since the exact etiology is not known, different treatments can be applied. The effect of vitamin D levels on children with growing pains was investigated. Clinical and laboratory findings of 138 pediatric patients with growing pain and 30 healthy control subjects were examined and then the changes in pain scores of children and their families with follow-up and treatment were evaluated. The pain was most commonly seen in the form of lower extremity pain at night and in girls. Although growing pains can be treated with nonpharmacological methods, there were also patients who required pharmacological treatment. Vitamin D deficiency was observed in children with growing pain. Vitamin D treatment was given to 46 patients with vitamin D deficiency. Pain scores made by both themselves and their families decreased in 91.4% of the patients who came for control. After the use of vitamin D in children with growing pains, the mean pain score reported by the children decreased from 7.26±1.757 to 2.46±2.38. The mean pain score reported by families about their children decreased from 7.56±1.97 to 2.51±2.53 after vitamin D supplementation. Although most of the time growing pain is a self-limiting clinical picture, vitamin D supplementation may be necessary after a differential diagnosis was made because of the high level of anxiety in the families of children who do not respond to non-pharmacological approaches.
Macrophage activation syndrome revealing Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Maataoui-Belabbes Hajar , Bencharef Hanaa , Oukkache Bouchra , Madani Abdellah , Lamchahab Mouna
Published: July 2024

Macrophage activation syndrome is an anatomo-clinical entity due to inappropriate stimulation of macrophages. It can be of primary or  secondary origin. Blood diseases responsible for reactive macrophage activation syndrome are mainly T or NK lymphomas. The  association with Hodgkin lymphoma is exceptional. We report a case of a young adult whose macrophage activation syndrome revealed  Hodgkin lymphoma. The diagnosis of macrophage activation syndrome was assured in the light of compatible clinical, biological, and  cytological signs. The etiological diagnosis was guided by the bone marrow biopsy and confirmed by the anatomopathological study of a  lymph node biopsy. The prognosis remains more pejorative compared to macrophage activation syndromes related to infections or  autoimmune diseases. 
 
French title: Un syndrome d’activation macrophagique révélant un lymphome hodgkinien
Le syndrome d'activation macrophagique est une entité anatomo-clinique due à une stimulation inappropriée des macrophages. Elle peut être d'origine primaire ou secondaire. Les hémopathies responsables du syndrome d'activation macrophagique sont  principalement les lymphomes T ou NK. L'association avec le lymphome hodgkinien est exceptionnelle. Nous rapportons un cas d'un  jeune adulte chez qui le syndrome d'activation macrophagique a révélé un lymphome hodgkinien. Le diagnostic du syndrome  d'activation macrophagique a été posé devant des arguments cliniques, biologiques et cytologiques compatibles. Le diagnostic étiologique a été guidé par la biopsie ostéomédullaire et confirmé par l'étude anatomopathologique d'une biopsie ganglionnaire. Le  pronostic reste plus péjoratif par rapport aux syndromes d'activation macrophagique secondaires aux infections ou aux maladies auto- immunes.
Dissection aortique secondaire au syndrome d’apnée du sommeil : à propos d’un cas
Authors: Ernestho-ghoud Indretsy Mahavivola , Rakotonaivo Andoniaina , Rajaonarison Ny Ony Narindra Lova Hasina , Ahmad Ahmad , Vololontiana Hanta Marie Danielle
Published: July 2024

La dissection aortique était rarement décrite au cours du syndrome d’apnée du sommeil, en particulier en Afrique Subsaharienne. Dans  cet article, nous rapportons le cas d’un patient âgé de 67 ans, présentant une désaturation spontanée de découverte fortuite. La seule  cause mise en évidence était le syndrome d’apnée du sommeil compliqué de la dissection aortique. Le traitement du syndrome d’apnée  du sommeil par pression positive continue permettait de prévenir la progression de la dissection aortique.
 
English title: Aortic dissection secondary to a sleep apnea syndrome: a case report
Aortic dissection has been rarely reported in sleep apnea syndrome, particularly from Subsaharan Africa. Here, we report a case of a 67- year-old man with a fortuitous spontaneous desaturation. The only highlighted cause was sleep apnea syndrome complicated by aortic dissection. Continuous positive airway pressure can be useful to prevent the progression of aortic dissection with sleep apnea syndrome.
Females’ engagement in Galamsey and its effects on household livelihoods in Ghana: A case of Manso Ayirebikrom in Amansie South District
Authors: Mensah Joseph Nti , Bukari Francis Issahaku Malongza
Published: July 2024

Intensive measures to stop galamsey are still effective. However, these measures havenotconsidered the livelihoods of those engaged, particularly females and are thereforequestionable in mainstream literature. Hence, this study assessed the effects of females' engagement in galamsey on their household livelihoods. The study employedamixedresearch approach. It included semi-structured interview questions, primary data fromasample of 50 females, and relevant literature. The study identified that females, tomeethousehold needs but lack sufficient income resulting from a lack of productive employmentand other factors, enter into galamsey, with their income, substantially contributingtohousehold needs. However, the study further disclosed that galamsey is unstableandinsecure as females hardly cope with ban enforcement, health and safety concerns, andgender marginalization, which challenge females’ households. The study recommendedthatpolicymakers and development organizations, including the government, Ministry of Labour, Rural Development, Gender and Social Protection, and NGOs, create job opportunities, provide credit facilities and affordable loans to support female entrepreneurs, anddiversifytheir income sources. Furthermore, the government is advised to empower females througheducation, gender awareness, leadership, and livelihood programmes to enable themtoleverage several livelihood opportunities to improve their households.
Effect of Industrial Harmony and Community Development in Nigeria: A study of the Enugu State Local Government System (2017-2022)
Authors: Ude Adaora , Ugwu Sam , Ibeh Chinedu
Published: July 2024

The study evaluated the relationship between industrial harmony and community development in Enugu State Local Government System from 2017 to 2022. The study used both primary and secondary source of data. Data were presented and analyzed using Likert Scale and the hypotheses using t - test. The findings revealedthat Workers’ participation in decision making had significant positive relationship with social support; t (95, n = 264), 10.722, P. < .05.Collective bargaining had significant positive relationship with community safety, t (95, n = 264), 15.334, P. < .05. The study concludes thatworkers’ participation in decision making and Collective bargaining had significant positive relationship with the social support and community safety of Enugu State Local Government systems. The study recommended among others that the management of Enugu State Local Government system should encourage workers’ participation in decision making as providing opportunities for feedback and input, and engagement, improve decision-making, and build a positive organizational culture.
Characterization And Impact Of Cutting Parameters On Face-Milled Surfaces Of Pearlitic Ductile Iron
Authors: Ilori O.O. , Oyewusi T.F. , Fadare O.A. , Adeyemi F.F.
Published: July 2024

In an attempt to enhance the surface integrity of machined parts in the manufacturing industries, facemilled surface profiles of pearlitic ductile iron were characterized and analysed based on the effects of some cutting parameters. The pearlitic ductile iron used was locally  prepared. Atomic Force Microscope and Scanning Electron Microscope were used to characterizing the roughness profile of the machined  workpiece. The results showed increase in depth of cut from 400.37 to 652.37 nm at constant cutting fluid flow rate, cutting  speed and feed rate. Also, at varying cutting fluid flow rate, the roughness parameter decreased from 733.56 to 272.84 nm at constant  feed rate, depth of cut and cutting speed. Similar result was obtained with varying feed rate. However, there exists no definable course as  cutting speed increases at constant cutting fluid flow rate, depth of cut and feed rate. In conclusion, it was found that machining at  cutting fluid flow rate of 4 l/min, feed rate of 30 mm/rev, depth of cut of 0.2 mm and cutting speed of 1000 rev/min produced better  quality surfaces. Therefore, the findings in this study will be useful for the manufacturing industries to improve on the surface reliability  of the face milling process.
Assessment of Onshore Wind Farm Performance to Geometric Layout Choices by Utilizing Mesoscale Modelling Techniques
Authors: Mangara Rajabu Juma , Kebacho Laban Lameck
Published: July 2024

Previous studies have shown that the average losses of wind power production due to the wind turbine wake effect within operating wind farms is between 10% to 20% of the overall power output. Among other factors, it is reviled that, the wind farm array layout can contribute significantly to both wake effect and power loss at the wind farm site. This study employs mesoscale modelling techniques to assess the effect of geometric layout on the onshore wind farms performance. Geometric layout can be defined by the spacing and alignment (e.g. staggered or aligned) of the wind turbines with respect to the prevailing wind direction. The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model in this study utilised Fitch’s wind farm parameterization to simulate the interaction between wind turbine blades rotation and the atmosphere. To examine a wide range of operating conditions observed within the real-world operating wind farms, two idealised numerical simulations are carried out for each designed wind farm geometric layout, one with the convective condition and another with stable condition. Among the four different designed wind farm geometric layouts, the triangular wind farm layout which offered staggering after every next row was noted to be the easiest method for improving the wind farm performance by increasing the capacity factor from 0.55 to 0.71 and decreasing array losses from 9.15 % to 4.63 %. Comparison between stable and convective regime indicates that the highest capacity factor was obtained during the stable case with the highest power loss owing to increased wake impacts downstream. The lowest value of the capacity factor was obtained during the convective case with the lowest power loss for both four designed wind farms.
Prevalent Chronic Infections Modulate T-Cell Phenotypes and Functions Enhancing HIV Susceptibility, Dissemination, and Persistence in African Population
Authors: Marandu Thomas F. , Chachage Mkunde S.
Published: July 2024

While many studies have associated HIV prevalence with socio-economic status, few have explored the host's immunity status prior to HIV infection. High HIV prevalence in Africa may in part be contributed by a high prevalence of other persistent infections that modulate the host immunity towards phenotypes that promote HIV acquisition. In this narrative review, we examined how four most prevalent pathogens in Africa (human papillomavirus, herpesviruses, Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and helminth infections) modulate immunity to favor their survival and in turn, also influence HIV acquisition. We have described how these pathogens expand the number of memory and activated T cells, increase the expression of HIV entry receptors leading to an increased HIV susceptibility, and show how these pathogens' immunoevasive strategies may favor HIV persistence. A better understanding of the association between immunomodulation caused by other prevalent infections and HIV/AIDS prevalence may improve HIV/AIDS preventive strategies in Africa. We suggest intensifying efforts to control these chronic infections by making drugs or vaccines available in endemic regions. This may act as another indirect strategy to complement current HIV/AIDS interventions in Africa. We also call for more research to understand better the relationship between immunomodulation by other prevalent infections and HIV incidence.
Drivers of bushmeat consumption and perception of zoonotic disease risks in a Nigerian wet market
Authors: Iwajomo Soladoye B. , Ogunsola A. C.
Published: July 2024

Bushmeat trade has been documented as one of the causes of wildlife depletion and population decline and it is also implicated in the transmission of zoonotic diseases. This study investigated the factors influencing bushmeat trade and the perception of zoonotic disease transmission among vendors and buyers of the commodity at the Oluwo Market, Epe, Lagos, Nigeria. Data was collected using 150 structured interviewer-administered questionnaires through the KoboCollect survey tool between February and October 2022. Results revealed that the top three bushmeat sought after were Grasscutter (Thryonomys swinderianus), Pangolin (Phataginus tricuspis) and Antelopes. There was no significant association between household income and bushmeat consumption pattern (p>0.05), rather non-financial factors namely taste, aroma and cultural customs were the main drivers of bushmeat consumption. Most occasional consumers (67%) would choose cheaper alternative protein sources over bushmeat. However, price increase will not deter purchasing in both groups. The lack of knowledge regarding disease transmission through contact and consumption of bushmeat was high among sellers (79%) and buyers (47%). The use of hand protection like gloves was uncommon when handling animals. Establishing safety standards among buyers and sellers is urgently needed, along with public health education to address zoonotic diseases risks.
Prevalence of fascioliasis in slaughtered cattle in six Area Councils in Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbaje Leah J. , Malann Y. D. , Azare B. A. , Njoku M. , Jegede O. C.
Published: July 2024

This study aims to evaluate bovine fascioliasis in cattle slaughtered in abattoirs of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja. Weekly from May 2022 to April 2023, liver and faecal samples collected from cattle slaughtered at the abattoirs were examined and recovered Fasciola preserved in 70% ethanol. The formal ether concentration technique was used for ova detection. Infected livers were further examined for lesions and presence of adult parasite. A total of 584 cattle were sampled and an overall prevalence of 275 (47.00%) was recorded. Out of 584 cattle examined, 294 were males and 290 females with prevalence of 115 (39.00%) in males and 160 (55.00%) in females. Sex related prevalence showed significant relationship (p<0.05). Infection rate was significantly higher in older cattle (≥6years), 36 (70.00%) than younger cows (p<0.05). The highest prevalence was recorded in March, 20 (57.00%) and the least in May, 24 (33.00%). The relationship between season and prevalence of infection was statistically significant (p<0.05). The abattoir, AMAC, 59 (69.00%) had the highest prevalence while Abaji, 8 (32.00%) had the least. The results showed that fascioliasis is still endemic in Abuja, therefore regular inspection and treatment of cows, ranching rather than nomadism and public enlightenment are recommended mitigation measures.
Hydatidosis among ruminants slaughtered in Kafur Abattoir, Katsina State
Authors: Eberemu Nkiru C. , Umar M. , Orpin J. B.
Published: July 2024

Hydatidosis is an infection caused by the larval stage of Echinococcus. It is among the parasitic diseases that imperil livestock production. This study aims to determine the prevalence of hydatid cysts among ruminants slaughtered in Kafur Abattoir, Katsina State. Post-mortem examination of the visceral organs of 600 ruminants (200 cattle, 100 sheep and 300 goats) was carried out for six months (September 2022-March 2023). The overall prevalence of hydatid cysts was 144 (24%). The prevalence was 46 (23%) cattle, 14(14%) sheep and in 84 (28%) goat. The prevalence of hydatid cysts was significantly associated with goats (OR>1.0, 95% CI>1.0) while in cattle and sheep, it showed no association. The cyst diameter of <5cm was predominant (137 out of 278 cysts) while the cyst diameter of >10cm was the least abundant (32). The liver and lungs harboured the majority of the cysts recovered in the animals. In cattle, only the liver and lungs were infected; the liver, lungs and heart were infected in sheep while in goats all four organs were infected. The study showed a significant prevalence of hydatid cyst infection in the ruminants studied, suggesting the need for public health awareness and control of the disease.
GANTI RUGI PEMBATALAN PERTUNANGAN ANALISIS PUTUSAN HAKIM NOMOR: 5/PDT.G/2019/PN BMS
Authors: Amri M. Saeful
Published: June 2024

Decision Number 5/Pdt.G/2019/PN Bms relates to the case of annulment of the engagement by Agus Suyitno to his fiancé, Sri Subur Lestari. In this case, the Panel of Judges imposed a fine on Agus to pay compensation to Sri Subur Lestari in the form of substantial immaterial losses. This is based on the Jurisprudence of the Supreme Court Number 3191 K/Pdt/1984. This study uses a problem approach in the form of a statutory approach (statute approach) and a case approach (case approach). And the results of this study state that the decision delivered by the judge can be categorized as a progressive decision because it is in accordance with applicable legal procedures and refers to the jurisprudence or the previous judge's decision so that it can be used as a reference by the judge in deciding a case related to the annulment of the engagement.
Keywords: Engagement cancellation fines and progressive verdict
 
ABSTRAK
Putusan No. 5/Pdt.G/2019/PN.Bms berkaitan dengan kasus pembatalan pertunangan yang dilakukan oleh Agus Suyitno terhadap tunangannya bernama Sri Subur Lestari. Dalam kasus ini, Majelis Hakim memberikan sanksi denda kepada Agus untuk membayar ganti rugi kepada Sri Subur Lestari berupa kerugian immateriil yang cukup besar. Hal ini didasarkan pada Yurisprudensi Mahkamah Agung Nomor 3191 K/Pdt/1984. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan masalah berupa pendekatan perundang-undangan (sta-tute approach) dan pendekatan kasus (case ap-proach). Dan hasil penelitian ini menyebutkan bahwa putusan yang disampaikan oleh hakim dapat dikategorikan sebagai putusan yang progresif karena sudah sesuai dengan prosedur hukum yang berlaku dan merujuk pada Yurisprudensi atau putusan Hakim sebelumnya sehingga dapat dijadikan sebagai rujukan oleh hakim dalam memutuskan suatu perkara kaitannya dengan pembatalan pertunangan.
Denda, pembatalan pertunangan dan putusan progresif
Tinjauan Yuridis Terhadap Peningkatan Dispensasi Nikah Pada Masa Pandemi Di Pengadilan Agama Manado
Authors: Hiola Ibrahim , Manggara Fariska , Mahrus Aiman Abdurrahman , Rajafi Ahmad , Suleman Frangky
Published: June 2024

Undang-Undang No. 1 Tahun 1974 tentang perkawinan, mengatur batas usia pernikahan baik laki-laki dan perempuan, namun sejak 2019 hal tersebut diperbaharui melalui Undang-undang No. 16 Tahun 2019 yang menyatakan bahwa standar minimal pernikahan bagi laki-laki dan perempuan adalah 19 tahun. Namun sejak terjadinya pandemi Covid-19 angka perkara dispensi nikah di Pengadilan Agama Manado meningkat dari 21 perkara ditahun 2019 menjadi 42 perkara ditahun 2020 dan selama tahun 2021 (per agustus 2021) tercatat ada 36 perkara. Penelitian ini dilakukan untuk mengetahui bagaimana latar belakang terjadinya dispensasi nikah di di Pengadilan Agama Manado pada masa pandemi Covid-19 dan Bagaimana tinjauan yuridis terhadap peningkatan dispensasi nikah di Pengadilan Agama Manado. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian lapangan (field research) dengan menggunakan pendekatan sosiologi hukum. Adapun yang menjadi informan penelitian adalah hakim dan panitera Pengadilan Agama Manado serta pelaku dispensasi nikah atau kuasa hukum dengan menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. sedangkan metode yang digunakan dalam pengumpulan data adalah observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi, kemudian dianalisa menggunakan model Miles and Huberman yang dilakukan secara interaktif dan berlangsung secara terus-menerus pada setiap tahapan penelitian hingga tuntas. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa, pertama faktor kehamilan diluar nikah dan faktor ekonomi menjadi latar belakang terjadinya dispensasi nikah di Pengadilan Agama Manado. Kedua, dalam tinjauan yuridis pembaharuan batas usia minimal pernikahan yang diatur dalam Undang-undang No. 16 Tahun 2019 sebagai upaya pemerintah untuk menekan angka pernikahan dini, ternyata tidak cukup untuk menekan angka pernikahan dini atau dispensasi nikah di Pengadilan Agama Manado selama pandemi covid-19.
Design Students’ Affordance-based Messages in an Undesigned Design Studio
Authors: Kucukersen Firat ,   Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Architecture, Interior Architecture Department, Istanbul, Turkey, Gokdemir Gozde , Ucar Ugur Efe ,   Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Architecture, Interior Architecture Department, Istanbul, Turke,   Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Architecture, Interior Architecture Department, Istanbul, Turkey
Published: July 2024

In this study, as PhD candidates and teaching assistants working in the Interior Architecture Department of the Faculty of Architecture at Istanbul Technical University (ITU) we aimed to explore the interrelationship between the students’ messages and the studio’s affordances by using participant observation and photovoice methods in the classes we attended in the same physical space. We used the photographs taken by us during the studio courses as the central data set to explore the messages triggered by the studio affordances, which are formed based on the complex environments and relationships created by the limited physical facilities of our design studio, the high student quotas and the large project groups using the same physical space at different and even the exact times. Through collaborative commentary and reflective writing, we produced written and visual reports on the final themes at the conclusion of the analysis process. Finally, we concluded that the four main themes, namely, direct message, indirect message, transcendent message, and no message but action, guided us in exploring and explaining our studio’s affordances.
Constructional Designs of Architecture Students – Were Building Subsystems Successfully Integrated During the Project Process?
Authors: Edis Ecem ,   Istanbul Technical University, Faculty of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Istanbul, Turkey
Published: July 2024

Integration problems between building subsystems designed by different specialists may arise when not properly coordinated. Alongside their design duties, architects often have control/coordination responsibility to avoid these. Gaining experience in integrating building subsystems is an objective of the Construction Project course in the Istanbul Technical University Bachelor of Architecture Program. Final submissions of the author-led groups were evaluated to determine design deficiencies and integration problems observed and to discuss students’ performance in subsystem integration. Using a classification framework generated for determining the types of subsystem integration, design deficiencies and integration problems based on literature, 20 student projects were reviewed in this respect. Drawings of each project for the architectural, structural, heating and plumbing systems were assessed within themselves and in pairs to find inconsistencies. Regarding the integration problems identified, opinions of a few professionals on their significance in causing rework were taken via a questionnaire to assist the discussions. Students’ performance was assessed using both quantitative findings regarding the number and type of design deficiencies and integration problems identified and professionals’ opinions. In total, 12 design deficiencies and 20 integration problems were identified. Among the deficiencies, the occurrence rate of errors was higher than that of the omissions (i.e. 61% and 39.2% respectively). Among the integration problems, the structural system was always a component of the subsystem pairs with a high occurrence rate of problems (i.e. >50%). Regarding different types of integration problems, omission was the least commonly observed problem followed by error, and soft and hard clashes respectively.
SERVANT LEADERSHIP AND EMPLOYEES’ KNOWLEDGE HIDING BEHAVIOR: TESTING MEDIATING ROLE OF SELF-EFFICACY
Authors: Baş Murat , Ekinci Lokman Onur
Published: June 2024

The fundamental objective of this study was to assess the effect of servant leadership on nurses' tendency to conceal knowledge in the context of a selected healthcare institution in Erzincan, Turkey. In order to evaluate the research hypotheses, we used a convenient sampling technique and collected data at two different time intervals from relevant sources. The initial data collection phase yielded a final sample of 400 valid and complete responses from nurses, which we subsequently analyzed using SPSS version 25. Our findings exposed a important relationship between servant leadership and knowledge withholding behaviour among nurses. Furthermore, the variable of self-efficacy emerged as a partial mediator between servant leadership and knowledge-hiding tendencies. This research donates to the understanding of knowledge-hiding behaviour, a critical component of knowledge management, through the lens of servant leadership, drawing on insights from both social exchange and leader-member exchange (LMX) theories
INFLUENCE OF WOOTZ STEEL MICROSTRUCTURE TO FORGING
Authors: Švanda Pavel
Published: June 2024

Cast (real) damascus steel (so-called “wootz”) is an ancient tool/weapon material. Due to relatively high carbon amounts, the wootz is hard to forge (or other hot-forming shaping). In some cases, the forging of wootz is impossible. During forging, cracks are often created that lead to absolutely disintegration of bulk material. In this paper is given one relationship between wootz microstructure and the forging impossibility.