bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of Whole Slide Imaging for primary surgical pathology diagnosis of prostate biopsies
Authors: Rao Vidya , Subramanian Pavitra , Sali Akash P. , Menon Santosh , Desai Sangeeta B.
Published: May 2024

Context:

Whole slide imaging (WSI) is an important component of digital pathology which includes digitization of glass slides and their storage as digital images. Implementation of WSI for primary surgical pathology diagnosis is evolving, following various studies which have evaluated the feasibility of WSI technology for primary diagnosis.

Aims, Settings and Design:

The present study was a single-center, observational study which included evaluation by three pathologists and aimed at assessing concordance on specialty-specific diagnosis and comparison of time taken for diagnosis on WSI and conventional light microscopy (CLM).

Materials and Methods:

Seventy prostate core biopsy slides (reported between January 2016 and December 2016) were scanned using Pannoramic MIDI II scanner, 3DHISTECH, Budapest, Hungary, at 20× and 40×. Sixty slides were used for validation study following training with 10 slides.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Intraobserver concordance for diagnosis between the two platforms of evaluation was analyzed using Cohen's κ statistics and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC); observation time for diagnosis was compared by Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Results:

Interpretation on WSI using 20× and 40× was comparable with no major discordance. A high level of intraobserver agreement was observed between CLM and WSI for all three observers, both for primary diagnosis (κ = 0.9) and Grade group (κ = 0.7-0.8) in cases of prostatic adenocarcinoma. The major discordance rate between CLM and WSI was 3.3%–8.3%, which reflected the expertise of the observers. The time spent for diagnosis using WSI was variable for the three pathologists.

Conclusion:

WSI is comparable to CLM and can be safely incorporated for primary histological diagnosis of prostate core biopsies.
Ataxia-telangiectasia and combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma: A case report
Authors: Singh Tej P. , Patkar Shraddha , Goel Mahesh , Menon Munita Bal
Published: May 2024

Ataxia-telangiectasia (A-T) is a rare autosomal recessive disease characterized by ataxia, cutaneous and ocular telangiectasia, impaired immunity with susceptibility to sino-pulmonary infections, radiation sensitivity, and cancers particularly of hemato-lymphoid origin. Liver function tests abnormalities and elevated alfa feto-protein have been reported in A-T; however, there is no reported case of combined hepatocellular-cholangiocarcinoma (cHCC-CC) in literature. These tumors should be treated in similar fashion as in general population; however, reduction of chemotherapy dose might be helpful in decreasing chemo-toxicity.
Correlation of cyclin D1, HER2, and AMACR expressions with histologic grade in bladder urothelial carcinomas
Authors: Karakaya Yeliz Arman , Oral Esin
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective:

Bladder cancer is the ninth most common type of cancer worldwide. We aimed to investigate the relationship between tumor grade, lamina propria invasion, muscularis propria invasion, and lymphovascular invasion and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2), cyclin D1, and alpha-methyl-CoA racemase (AMACR) expressions in bladder cancer.

Materials and Methods:

The study included patients who underwent complete TURBT. In total, 72 cases of bladder cancer diagnosed by two pathologists were selected. AMACR, HER-2, cyclin D1 expressions were detected immunohistochemically.

Results:

The study population comprised 80% (57) males and 20% (15) females (mean age, 68 years). Further, 35 cases were noninvasive and 37 invasive urothelial carcinoma and 38 patients had low-grade tumor and 34 high-grade tumor. Intense immunostaining was observed with cyclin D1 for 75% tumors, AMACR for 39%, and HER-2 for 86%. High expressions of cyclin D1 and AMACR were observed in high-grade tumors (P < 0.05 and P < 0.005, respectively). High expression of HER-2 (2 and 3 positive) was found both at low- and high-grade tumors (84% and 88%, respectively).

Conclusion:

Cyclin D1, AMACR expressions were found to be significant predictive factors of high-grade tumors. High Her-2 expression in patients with bladder carcinoma may indicate that they are potential targets for treatment. These markers may be important in determining prognosis of tumors and may be valuable for guiding treatment options.
Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Coronavirus Disease-2019
Authors: Lye Meng Hon , Lin Carren Teh Sui , Othman Nik Adilah Binti Nik
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) is an ongoing global pandemic exerting considerable strain on the health-care system. Sudden-onset sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) among patients with COVID-19 had been reported sparingly in the literature. Hearing loss can be easily overlooked in intensive care settings and establishing diagnosis can also be challenging. Proposed causes include injury to inner ear structures, cochlear nerve, or auditory brainstem. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is recommended to avoid long-term morbidity. All patients presenting with sudden-onset hearing loss should be screened for COVID-19. Here, we report a case of COVID-19 patient with SSNHL and how the hearing level is determined.
A randomised control trial to assess the efficacy of platelet rich fibrin in type 1 tympanoplasty
Authors: Mathew Nikhil V. , Menon Shalini Sandeep , Ramaswamy Balakrishnan , Nayak Dipak Ranjan
Published: May 2024

Objective:

The objective was to assess the efficacy of platelet-rich fibrin in increasing graft uptake and improved hearing outcome following Type I tympanoplasty by postauricular underlay technique.

Materials and Methods:

Adult patients without any comorbidities in the age group 20–40 years with chronic otitis media-mucosal (inactive) enrolled for type I tympanoplasty were included in this randomized control study. Sixty eligible patients were randomly grouped by lottery method into test (application of platelet-rich fibrin, n = 30) and control groups (without application of platelet-rich fibrin, n = 30). Postoperative closure of the perforation was compared on 1st month and 3rd month follow-up. Postoperative graft uptake was compared in both the study groups. Pre- and postoperative comparison of pure tone average (PTA) and air-bone gap (ABG) closure were measured in all patients.

Results:

The graft uptake rate in the test group was 100%, and for the control group was 86% on 3rd month follow-up. PTA and ABG closure in patients did not show any comparable improvement in either group. The results were not statistically significant for graft uptake (P = 0.112), PTA (P = 0.221) and ABG (P = 0.931).

Conclusion:

The use of platelet-rich fibrin did not have significant improvement in postoperative outcome both in terms of tympanic membrane closure and hearing improvement statistically. However, we did notice better graft closure in patients where we used platelet-rich fibrin.
A Study on Clinical Presentation of Pseudocyst, Dermoid Cyst, and Sebaceous Cyst of Pinna and its Management at a Tertiary Care Center
Authors: Sinha Vikas , Parmar Bhagirathsinh D. , Chaudhary Nitin , Jha Sushil G. , Yadav Sandeep Kumar
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

Swellings of pinna are common but various cystic lesions encountered in clinical practice are not reported too often. Management of these lesions if not done at the earliest may lead to disfigurement and change the entire appearance of the face.

Aim and Objective:

The aim and objective of the study was to determine the clinical presentation, relevant investigations, appropriate treatment, timing of surgical intervention, and prevention of complications.

Materials and Methods:

Our study comprised 38 cases; male and female patients presented with different types of pinna swellings.

Results:

A total number of pseudocyst patients were 30 and of which only four were females. Recurrence seen in pseudocyst was 13.33%. Complete resolution was seen after excision in all cases of dermoid and sebaceous cyst.

Conclusions:

Aspiration and drainage followed by splinting is a simple, safe, and effective surgical treatment of pseudocyst. Simple excision is the most effective surgical treatment of dermoid cyst and sebaceous cyst.
ISP good clinical practice recommendations for gum care
Authors: Kumar Ashish , Grover Vishakha , Satpathy Anurag , Jain Ashish , Grover Harpreet Singh , Khatri Manish , Kolte Abhay , Dani Nitin , Melath Anil , Chahal Gurparkash Singh , Thomas Biju , Pradeep Avni Raju , Pandit Nymphea , Pillai Baiju Radhamoni Madhavan , Manjunath R. G. Shiva , Nandkeoliar Tanya , Puri Komal , Singhal Rameshwari , Dodwad Vidya , Bhardwaj Amit , Thakur Roshani , Jalaluddin Mohammad , Boyapati Ramanarayana , Singh Manoj Kumar , Bansal Mansi
Published: May 2024

Oral health is vital for the general well-being, overall body health and the quality of life throughout our lifetime. Most of the oral diseases and conditions are largely related to the maintenance of oral hygiene, lacking that people suffer from diverse oral diseases at different times in their life. With greater life expectancy, the individuals have teeth involved with periodontal diseases that would not only require professional care but also home gum care for them to last a lifetime. Indian Society of Periodontology (ISP) has recognized the need for systematic documents to update everyday clinical practice of general dental practitioners and have provided evidence-based consensus documents, namely good clinical practice recommendations from time to time to raise the oral health-related awareness and standards of oral healthcare delivery across the country. The current set of clinical practice recommendations focused to “Gum Care for All”, is aimed at emphasizing and enhancing the awareness regarding oral health promotion, maintenance, and disease prevention. Twenty-five subject matter experts from across the nation, prepared these recommendations after a thorough literature review and group discussions. The document has been prepared in three distinct sections, namely pretherapeutic, therapeutic, and post therapeutic, to provide guidance during the respective phases of patient management and may serve as a quick and concise reference to the readers. The guidelines shall provide the distinct definitions, signs and symptoms, treatment required; recall visit specifications for plausible clinical case situations, home care advice regarding maintenance of oral hygiene including information on brushing technique, care and change of brush, use of interdental aids, and mouthwashes, etc. The document should advocate and guide the combined efforts of general dentists, and the population at large toward an empowered, evidence based, integrated, and comprehensive oral health care, which shall enhance the healthful functioning and longevity of the dentition and general health of the individual.
Dynamic Air Bronchogram Ultrasound Sign in a Noninvasive Ventilated Patient
Authors: Coelho Telmo Borges , Mariz José António
Published: May 2024

Acute dyspnea is one of the most common complaints in any emergency department. Physical examination and chest radiography have been insufficient to diagnose these patients accurately and quickly. We present a clinical case of a dyspneic patient presenting to the emergency department, who was promptly diagnosed with lobar pneumonia by point-of-care pulmonary ultrasonography. This permitted the rapid onset of adequate treatment. Furthermore, we describe a dynamic air bronchogram sign in a noninvasive ventilated patient. Chest computed tomography scan was performed confirming consolidation of the middle lobe. The advent of handheld point-of-care ultrasonography is revolutionizing practical care enabling physicians with a high-accuracy, low-cost, fast, safe, and repeatable diagnostic tool.
Prevalence of Otorhinolaryngological Manifestations of COVID-19 Infection during Third Wave and Comparison from Seasonal Flu and Allergic Rhinitis in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Singhal Aditya , Agrawal Pooja , Agrawal Vijender Kumar
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ever since the cluster of COVID-19 cases seen in Wuhan, China, the animal-origin virus has created havoc. These changes in clinical manifestations have been tracked in different waves, in different countries, also the virus behaving differently according to race and culture. To assess the prevalence of symptoms of COVID-19 infection during the third wave and compare it with seasonal flu and allergic rhinitis.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional, comparative study was conducted at a tertiary hospital in Bareilly. A close-ended questionnaire was prepared to assess the otorhinolaryngological symptoms of COVID-19, seasonal flu, and allergic rhinitis. ENT findings were further confirmed by a suitable test.

Results:

A total of 145 tested positive for COVID-19 infection, 121 patients were diagnosed with seasonal flu, and 124 patients were diagnosed as cases of allergic rhinitis. Fever was the most common symptom in seasonal flu (100%) and COVID (93.8%) patients. Rhinorrhea (100%), lacrimation (100%), and sneezing (100%) were common symptoms in the allergic rhinitis group. A Chi-square test with Bonferroni correction showed a significant difference in the prevalence of symptoms in all three groups (P < 0.0001). Vaccination also contributed to less severity of COVID-19 disease.

Conclusion:

Involvement of otorhinolaryngology is considered a biomarker in all three groups with less frequent pulmonary features. It becomes necessary to correctly differentiate COVID-19 from the other two diseases for the proper treatment of patients.
District Medical Colleges in India – Addressing the Rural Health-Care Needs
Authors: Kumar Raman
Published: May 2024

The shortfall of human resources in health has resulted in skewing the distribution of health workers such that vulnerable populations in rural, tribal, and hilly areas continue to be extremely underserved. To address the regional disparities in medical education and availability of human resources in health, the policy of establishing one medical college at each district in India was initiated. The situation of human resources in health remains inadequate. To address the regional disparities in medical education and availability of human resources in health, the policy of establishing one medical college at each district in India was initiated. Impressive progress has been made during the past few years with respect to opening new medical colleges in the area of need across geographical coverage.
Thyroid Gland Basics: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Assi Mohammed Hussein
Published: May 2024

The thyroid gland is the largest and one of the most important endocrine glands in the body. It plays an important role in maintaining body metabolism and it can be affected by various disorders, for instance, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, goiter, inflammations, and tumors. Therefore, comprehensive knowledge of thyroid gland basics (embryogenesis, histology, gross anatomy and physiology) is regarded as vital to every physician for the identification and management of these different conditions, for surgeons for the outcomes of thyroid surgery, for pathologists during their work in histopathological examination as well as forensic pathologists for identification of potential thyroid-related deaths and accidental autopsy findings.
Variations in Nutrient Foramina of Clavicle – A Descriptive Study
Authors: Aggarwal Prerana , Ghorai Sumi
Published: May 2024

Background:

Human clavicle, an important bone of the pectoral girdle connects the upper appendicular skeleton to the axial skeleton. The nutrition and growth of the bone depend mainly on the nutrient artery. It enters the bone through the nutrient foramen.

Hence this study aimed to

study the number, position, location, direction, and distance of nutrient foramina of the clavicle from the sternal end.

Methodology:

In a descriptive study 79 dry adult human clavicles (40 right, 39 left) were studied, and mean foramen index (FI) was calculated. The data obtained were tabulated, results obtained and the inference was drawn.

Results:

The mean length of clavicles studied was 141.36 ± 11.11 mm (right 140.51 ± 11.10 mm, left 142.36 ± 11.14 mm). The average distance of foramina (DNF) from the sternal end was 61.48 ± 15.82 mm (right 62.88 ± 16.28 mm, left 59.96 ± 15.12 mm). Nutrient foramen was found in all the studied bones. The total foramina observed are 120. Forty-four bones have single (55.70%), 29 double (36.71%), and 6 triple (7.59%) foramina. Foramina were distributed on all four surfaces of the clavicle, predominantly on the posterior surface (52.50%). Most foramina were present on the middle third (67.50%) with an average FI% of 43.82 ± 11.85 (right 44.99 ± 12.09, left 42.43 ± 11.41). The foramina were directed toward the acromial end in all cases.

Conclusion:

The nutrient artery of the clavicle needs to be preserved for maintaining its vitality. Hence, the morphometric and topographic knowledge related to nutrient foramen and its variations is of immense importance to orthopedic surgeons and radiotherapists while treating clavicular pathologies.
Accessory Nutrient Foramen in the Mandibular Ramus
Authors: Nation Haley L. , Adams Kevin P. , Agu-Udemba Chinonye C.
Published: May 2024

While numerous anatomical variations in the osteology of the mandible have been reported, the current case describes a unique nutrient foramen in terms of its location and function. During an anatomical dissection of the infratemporal fossa, an accessory nutrient foramen was found in the mandibular ramus of a 93-year-old male dentulous cadaver. An anomalous vein draining the masseter muscle traversed the foramen. This venous structure was traced into a nutrient canal located anterior to the mandibular canal. To our knowledge, the location and function of the accessory nutrient foramen and anomalous vein have never been previously reported. These unique characteristics make this accessory nutrient foramen clinically relevant. Knowledge of accessory foramen in the mandibular ramus and similar anatomical variations may reduce the risk of injury to traversing structures during numerous surgical procedures.
A Cadaveric Series on Urovascular Anomalies
Authors: Jacob Jenny , Sam Femina , Rajeswari Aishwarya Jayakumaran , Stephen John Bino , Thandayuthapani Vithya
Published: May 2024

Congenital anomalies of the urogenital system are a wide spectrum of variations. The multiplex embryogenesis of the kidney can lead to variations in the excretory system and vascularity to it. It poses a risk to conditions such as vesicoureteral reflux, obstruction, stenosis of one or both orifices, ureterocoele, and in surgical and radiological procedures. Vascular variations such as aberrant or accessory renal vessels can cause possible compression on the ureters and is important clinically. Hence, this case series was aimed to bring out various urovascular anomalies noticed for 2 years during dissection for 1st-year medical students. Of the four cases, accessory renal arteries were noted in two, whereas aberrant renal arteries were seen in the other two. The accessory and aberrant renal arteries had a smaller caliber when compared with the main renal arteries. Variations with a preponderance to arterial origin were seen with notable differences in the size of the kidney. When these arteries are present, the size of the kidney on that side is greater than the other side. In addition, they were also associated with other anomalies such as complete bifid ureter, incomplete rotation, retroaortic left renal vein, and abdominal aortic aneurysm. Developmental anomalies may not confine to a single anomaly but a heterogeneous deviation in a single case per se, which must be identified and explored. This might help the surgeons in transplantation procedures and endovascular interventions.
A note on Mal’tsev objects
Authors: Clementino Maria Manuel , Rodelo Diana
Published: May 2024

The aim of this work is to compare the distinct notions of
Mal’tsev object
in the sense of Weighill and in the sense of Montoli–Rodelo–Van der Linden.
Монополи, спектры overlap-фермионов и эта-штрих-мезон во внешнем магнитном поле
Authors: Hasegawa Masayasu
Published: May 2024

С помощью решеточного моделирования квантовой хромодинамики исследовано влияние внешнего магнитного поля на монополи, спектры overlap-оператора Дирака, инстантоны и массу эта-штрих-мезона. Однородное внешнее магнитное поле прилагается к конфигурациям калибровочного поля с $N_f=2+1$ кварковыми ароматами. Массы голых кварков настраиваются так, чтобы получились физические значения массы пиона и отношения $m_s/m_{u,d}$. Стандартные конфигурации и конфигурации с приложенным внешним магнитным полем генерируются в фазах конфайнмента и деконфайнмента. Напряженность внешнего магнитного поля варьируется от $e|B|=0.57$ ГэВ$^2$ до $e|B|=1.14$ ГэВ$^2$. Рассчитаны плотность монополей, а также длины монопольных петель, которые сравниваются с модулем петли Полякова. Затем с использованием полученных конфигураций вычислены собственные значения и собственные векторы overlap-оператора Дирака, который сохраняет точную киральную симметрию. Вычислены спектральные плотности, проведено сравнение флуктуаций собственных значений overlap-оператора Дирака с предсказаниями теории случайных матриц, из топологических зарядов найдена оценка числа инстантонов. Кроме того, проанализированы влияние размытия на эти наблюдаемые и нарушение киральной симметрии. Наконец, с использованием собственных значений и собственных векторов оператора Дирака вычислены константа распада псевдоскалярного мезона, киральный конденсат и квадрат массы эта-штрих-мезона. Проведена экстраполяция численных результатов в киральном пределе и показано, как магнитное поле влияет на результаты экстраполяции. Полученные результаты носят предварительный характер.
К вопросу о решениях решеточных уравнений Адлера-Бобенко-Суриса и решеточных уравнений типа Буссинеска
Authors: Zhao Songlin , Yan Ke , Sun Yingying
Published: May 2024

C использованием подхода матриц Коши заново рассматриваются решения всех решеточных уравнений из списка Адлера-Бобенко-Суриса, за исключением уравнения Q4, а также решения некоторых решеточных уравнений типа Буссинеска. Путем введения "ложного" неавтономного плосковолнового множителя получены солитонные, осциллирующие и частично осциллирующие решения рассматриваемых решеточных уравнений. В отличие от обычных солитонных решений осциллирующие решения принимают постоянные значения на всех элементарных четырехугольниках в плоскости $\mathbb{Z}^2$, что показывает их периодическую структуру.
Упрощение разложения фейнмановских интегралов при большой массе
Authors: Smirnov Vladimir Aleksandrovich
Published: May 2024

Показано, как можно упростить хорошо известное разложение фейнмановских интегралов при большой массе, чтобы получить больше членов разложения
в аналитической форме. В качестве примера используется разложение двухпетлевых четырехточечных интегралов Фейнмана, которые дают вклад в процесс $H \to ggg$.
Assessing food security profile of beneficiary and non-beneficiary farming households under Gurara irrigation scheme in Kaduna State, Nigeria
Authors: Akinmulewo B.O. , Idisi P.O. , Aiyedun E.A. , Oladimeji Y.U.
Published: May 2024

Globally, food security has been one of the major focuses of discussion particularly in developing country. This study analyzed and assesses the food security profile of beneficiary and non-beneficiary farm households under Gurara dam irrigation scheme in Kaduna State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study examined food security status, coping strategies and its determinants among the two categories of farming households. A cross-sectional survey which involved a multistage sampling procedure was employed to opt for 340 farming households made up of 170 for each category. Information on food security profile was collected using structured questionnaire during the 2019 cropping season. The analytical tools include descriptive statistics, t-statistics and logit regression models. The mean food security index implied that average food-secure individuals used up 127% above their day-to-day calorie needed while food- insecure individuals expended 26% below when compared to 2,260 needed per capita per day. About 74 and 52% of the beneficiaries and non-beneficiaries were food secure. The beneficiary mean household dietary diversity score of 6.12 falls under high dietary score compared to 4.57 of medium dietary for non-beneficiaries. Logit regression results showed that the odd ratios of marital status (p ˃ 0.05), educational level (p ˃ 0.01), family status (p ˃ 0.10), farming knowledge (p ˃ 0.01), irrigation income (p ˃ 0.01), farmland (p ˃ 0.01) and dependency ratio (p ˃ 0.01) were the major determining factors influencing the food security status of the farming individuals’ beneficiary. The study concluded that farming households should take advantage of the proximity of the dam facilities, for increase farm yield, to enhance income and improve their standard of living.
One-time conventional tillage, crop diversification and mulching enhanced hydro-physical properties of a tropical sandy loam soil
Authors: Parker B.Q. , Logah V. , Opoku A. , Quansah C.
Published: May 2024

Effective soil management is crucial to sustainable crop production in the Anthropocene characterized by intensive and mechanized agrarian activities. This study analyzed integrated measures involving one-time conventional or mechanical tillage followed by no tillage and cereal-legume rotation in the context of conservation agriculture. The aim was to improve the hydro-physical properties of a sandy loam soil located in the semi-deciduous forest zone of Ghana. Twelve treatments arranged in factorial viz. (a) two levels of tillage (continuous conventional tillage of ploughing and harrowing, and one-time conventional to no tillage), (b) three levels of cropping sequence (maize monoculture, cowpea monoculture and cowpea-maize rotation) and (c) two levels of crop residue management (no mulch and mulch) were evaluated. Soil aggregate size distribution and stability, penetration resistance and some hydraulic properties, namely, saturated hydraulic conductivity, infiltration rate and sorptivity, were measured. Interaction between onetime conventional tillage and maize-cowpea rotation increased soil aggregate stability by 34%, with greater proportions in the macro aggregate size range than the interaction of same cropping sequence with continuous conventional tillage. Integrating surface mulch with tillage and maize-cowpea sequence increased mean weight diameter of water stable aggregates from 0.66 to 0.85 mm compared to similar integrated system without mulch. One-time conventional tillage increased cumulative infiltration amount by 45% and sorptivity from 7.51 to 12.24 cm h–1 over continuous conventional tillage. Generally, the interaction of one-time conventional tillage with maize-cowpea rotation or maize monoculture and mulch improved grain yield and the soil hydraulic properties of cumulative infiltration, steady state infiltrability and sorptivity. Diversifying tillage operations within the framework of conservation agriculture holds promise for improving soil hydraulic properties and crop yield in sub-Saharan Africa in the era of climate change.
Effect of ensiling time and browse species on silage mineral interactions in relation to goat’s nutrient requirements
Authors: Ogungbesan A.M. , Fasina O.E. , Eniolorunda O.O. , Olanloye S.A. , Adewusi K.M.
Published: May 2024

Four different browses viz Gmelina arborea Roxb, Gliricidia sepium Jacq, Azadirachta indica A. Juss, and Leucaena leucocephala Lam were used to investigate the effect of browse and sampling time on silage major minerals interactions in relation to nutrient requirements of goats. The four browses were ensiled in air-tight rubber drum for 90 days and samplings were done at day 0, 30, 60, and 90 for mineral analysis. Mineral interactions included calcium and phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, calcium and sulfur, phosphorus and magnesium, sodium and potassium, potassium and magnesium, potassium/calcium + magnesium along with nitrogen and sulfur ratios. All the values/ratios were within range of optimum values for goats. Hence, goats fed with these browses will neither experience any clinical and sub-clinical deficiency symptoms nor the attendant low productivity and reproduction associated with sole feeding, thereby reducing the extra cost of procuring custom or commercial salt supplements.
Physicochemical, functional and pasting properties of cassava starch: Potential of developing flexible packaging film
Authors: Geta Kume Desta , Kuffi Kumsa , Bultum Lemessa Etana , Shumi Raya Shimeles
Published: May 2024

Developing multipurpose flexible packaging mainly from starch film is essential both from food safety and environmental issues. Starch has various functional, pasting, and physicochemical properties. A study was conducted to evaluate the physicochemical, functional, and pasting properties of Qulle (Q) and Kello (K) cassava starch and develop plastic film. A Completely Randomized Design with the main responses such as vital proximate composition, viscosity profiles, water absorption capacity, oil absorption property, and film strength was employed. All data analysis were performed using Design Expert software version 7.0.0. The result showed K starch moisture of 11.4%, ash 1.1%, fat 0.11%, protein 0.52%, fiber 0.01%, and carbohydrate 86.85%. Q cassava starch moisture was 10.6%, ash 0.13%, fat 0.13%, protein 0.35%, fiber 0.09%, and carbohydrate 88.7%. The proximate parameters showed a significant difference between Q and K’s starches at p < 0.05. The amylose of Q starch was 26.29 % and K was19.16%, which were significantly different (p < 0.05). Variations in amylose affected the functional properties of starches. The peak and breakdown viscosities of K starch were higher indicating that the final viscosity and peak temperature of Q starch affects its application. The functional and pasting parameters of Q and K starches varied significantly (p < 0.05). The plastic film developed from Q starch had low moisture, water absorption capacity, high transparency, tensile strength, and water solubility. It is concluded that Q cassava starch-based film is recommended for multipurpose flexible packaging. Overall, the functional and pasting properties of Q and K starches are influenced by amylose and proximate composition which impact their applications.
Comparative evaluation of localization range-free algorithms in wireless sensor networks
Authors: Edam Salaheldin , Abubakr Doaa , Rahma Roaa , Yagoub Roaa
Published: May 2024

Localization in wireless sensor networks is essential not only for determining the location but also for routing, managing density,  tracking, and a wide range of other communication network functions. There are two main categories of localization algorithms in  wireless sensor networks: range-based algorithms and range-free techniques. Localization based on range-free algorithms has benefits  in terms of requiring less hardware and energy, making it cost-efficient. This paper examines the impact of beacon nodes on range-free  localization algorithms. The findings indicate that ADLA has intermediate localization errors and the best detecting nodes. It also  addresses the effect of the number of locators on the algorithm’s efficiency. The findings demonstrate that as the number of locators  increased, the number of detected nodes in Centroid also increased. Compared to Centroid, ADLA has the second-best detecting nodes  but with better average error. Moreover, it considers the impact of the number of static nodes on range-free localization algorithms, and  ADLA achieved the best detection nodes. According to the evaluated results, this paper proposes a hybrid algorithm that combines the  Centroid algorithm and Active Distributed Localization Algorithm (ADLA) algorithm. However, combining these two algorithms results in  less localization error.
Assessment of Particulate Matter Concentrations in Aerosols from Selected Location of Kastina, Batagarawa, Kaita and Jibia Local Government Areas of Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Joseph E. , Maiwada S. S. , Baba-Kitugi A. N.
Published: May 2024

Particulate Matter have propensity to penetrate deep into the lungs, bloodstreams, and brain, making it the most dangerous kind of air pollutants, causing health concerns such as heart attacks and respiratory disorders. Thus, this research is focused on investigating the concentration of Particulate Matter (PM2.5 and PM10) in μg/m3 of Aerosols in some locations in Katsina Metropolis using energy dispersive X-Ray Fluorescence (EDXRF) Analysis. Results obtained reveal that the average PM 2.5 concentration for Katsina Metropolis ranged from 19-67 μg/m3, while the average PM10 concentration ranged from 112-192 μg/m3, revealing that about 80% of the Particulate Matter loads in Katsina is above the WHO recommended limit. The PM2.5/PM10 ratio of Katsina metropolis (0.28) are below the WHO recommendation (0.5-0.8). Lower ratio implies higher PM10, hence, Katsina Metropolitan Area is polluted with PM. Higher limits of Particulate matter in Katsina metropolis could be as a consequence of urbanization and other economic activities without due regulation and the dust particles from the Sahara blowing North to South. Therefore, relevant agencies could periodically access the levels of PM in Katsina State in other to take proactive measures for safeguarding the populace.
Determination of Baseline Data of Physicochemical and Microbiological Quality of Surface Waters in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Akpan B. P. , Udo A. L. , Akpan E. S.
Published: May 2024

Surface waters in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State are the predominant sources of potable water for the rapidly increasing population in the area with the presence of three tertiary institutions. Hence, the objective of this paper was to determine baseline data of the physicochemical and microbiological quality of surface waters in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria using standard microbiological and analytical procedures and values compared to the World Health Organization WHO and Nigerian Standard for Drinking Water Quality (NSDWQ) recommended levels. Results showed that water from streams 3, 4, 5 and 7 were good as source of drinking water. Water from Ikot Oku Nsit and Anyam streams had high levels of 28.46 mg/l and 23.05 mg/l, 46.14mg/l and 46.51 mg/l, 51.85 mg/l and 56.42 mg/l for Chemical Oxygen Demand, Total Suspended Solids and nitrates respectively, making it necessary for treatment. Water from stream 6 had high values of Nitrates and Fecal Coliform well above the WHO recommended levels rendering it not good for human consumption without treatment. Proper sensitization of the populace on water management, regular assessment of the surface waters and the revamping of the public water works at Afaha Nsit, have been recommended.
Bacteriological Analysis of Ready to Eat Suya Meat Sold In Adolor and Oluku Area of Benin City, Nigeria
Authors: Osunde D. O. , Isoah G. O. , Obasuyi C. , Akpoghelie P. O. , Oshoma C. E.
Published: May 2024

Traditionally processed meat product is usually done without observing strict hygiene conditions, which could cause foodborne illnesses.  As a consequence of microorganisms exceeding acceptable limits, hence, the objective of this paper was to determine the bacteriological analysis of ready-to-eat suya meat sold in Adolor and Oluku area of Benin City, Nigeria. Freshly roasted suya meat samples were obtained from two randomly chosen suya vendors and carefully wrapped in newspaper and sterile foil paper. Bacteriological analysis was performed using the pour plate method with nutrient agar and mannitol salt agar media. The isolates virulence factors and antibiotic susceptibility profile were analyzed. The results showed that samples obtained from Adolor wrapped with Newspaper had the highest bacterial counts of 4.00 x 109 cfu/g. The highest Staphylococci count of 3.10 ± 0.7 x 104 cfu/g was from a sample wrapped in Newspaper. The identified bacterial isolates were Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, Streptococcus sp., Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Clostridium sp, Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermis. Bacillus subtilis had the highest occurrence, while Staphylococcus epidermidis had the least occurrence, with cumulative values of 29.26 and 2.44 %, respectively. The isolates were resistant to most of the antibiotics tested, with an average antibiotic resistance index of above 50 %, which poses a serious public health concern. This study shows that packaging material and handlers are major sources of contamination in suya. It is recommended that suya be sold in more sterile packaging materials. The handlers should be trained on safe hygiene practices for handling suya
Effect of Pregnancy on Hematological Profile of Female Subjects from a Private Hospital in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria
Authors: Ekhegbesela A. O. , Ekhator C. N. , Emina A.
Published: May 2024

Pregnancy is characterized by important variations in virtually every organ system to accommodate the growing and developing fetoplacental entity. Hence, the objective of this study is to assess the effect of pregnancy on hematological profile of female subjects attending a private hospital in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria using eighty female volunteered individuals comprising sixty pregnant subjects and twenty nonpregnant subjects. The pregnant group was further categorized into three trimesters, each consisting of twenty participants. Results were presented as Mean ± SD and analyzed using GraphPad Prism 5 software (GraphPad Software Inc.), and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Overall, the mean values of lymphocytes, red blood cells, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and platelets were decreased in the pregnant cohort when compared to the nonpregnant cohort, whereas an incremental rise in white blood cell, and granulocytes were observed in the pregnant cohort when compared to the nonpregnant cohort. A statistically significant difference (p < 0.05) in the mean hematocrit and hemoglobin values was observed when comparing the first-trimester participants with the control participants, although white blood cells, granulocytes, lymphocytes, red blood cells, and platelets were not different (p > 0.05). The average values for white blood cells, granulocytes, red blood cells, hematocrit, and hemoglobin between second-trimester individuals and those of nonpregnant individuals exhibited a significant variance (p < 0.05), while the average lymphocyte and platelet counts showed no significance (p > 0.05). the mean white blood cells, granulocytes, lymphocytes, red blood cells, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and platelet counts for the third-trimester subjects were significantly different (p < 0.05) when compared to the control subjects. The study outcome suggests that pregnancy affects hematological indices and may be a risk predictor for pregnancy-associated complications.
Design of Variables Sampling Plan in Agro-Allied Industry for Packed Yam Flour in-view of International Regulatory Standards
Authors: Ezewu K. , Enujeke E. C. , Amagre M. E.
Published: May 2024

To stay competitive in today’s global market, manufacturers must ensure products released to consumers, meet international regulations and standards and this can only be done by putting in place sampling plans to guarantee the release of quality lots of products into the market. Hence, the objective of this paper is to design a variables sampling plan for the released of packed yam flour in view of international regulations on the net content of packaged goods. Probability plots, operating characteristic curves, the average outgoing quality (AOQ), average outgoing quality limit (AOQL) and average total inspection (ATI) were useful measures to evaluate the fitness of the sampling plan using the Minitab 2021 statistical software package. The packing process net weight, was found to be normally distributed with a p-value of 0.075 and a process standard deviation of 2.16. A comparative analysis on sample size, sampling plan measures, such as the AOQ, AOQL, and ATI and in view of best practice, were decisive in selecting a sampling plan with a sample size of 31 packs per lot as the most economic plan for lot sentencing. A practical demonstration on this sampling plan usage was also showcased. This sampling plan elevates and improves the net content of the packed product released into the market in view of international regulatory laws.
Physico-chemical and bacteriological contamination of water from some supply wells in the Mandjou and Kano neighbourhoods, Djadombè subwatershed, Bertoua, East Cameroon
Authors: Assomo Philippe Samba , Lawou Sylvain Kouayep , Bouba Lucas , Akono Daniel Florent , Azapmoh Cynthia , Kamgang Kabeyene Beyala Véronique
Published: May 2024

The present research focused on the determination of the physical parameters and the biological contamination of water from four wells (MAP1, MAP2 KAN3, KAN4) at the Djadombè sub-watershed irrigating Mandjou and Kano neighbourhoods in the city of Bertoua. The Physical parameters were assessed at the Institute of Geological and Mining Research (IGMR) of Yaoundé, while the Centre Pasteur (CP) of Yaoundé analyzed the bacteriologic status of various water samples. The results showed that water is acidic. Low alkalinity (HCO-3) and low mineralization 35 ≤ EC ≤ 197 were recorded. The values of TDS and TSS did not exceeded WHO (2011) standards (1000 mg/L and 25-40 mg/L). Water is fresh without any salinity. The bacteriological examination revealed a strong bacterial contamination of the water. The microbialcontamination concerns both fecal bacteria (E.coli, Intestinal Enterococci) and sufficiently pathogenic germs (vibrio cholerea, Salmonella ssp). The FS/FC > 2 ratios led to the conclusion that the biological contaminations are human origin. 
La présente recherche a porté sur la détermination des paramètres physiques et de la contamination biologique de l’eau de quatre puits (MAP1, MAP2, KAN3, KAN4) du sous-bassin versant de Djadombè irriguant les quartiers de Mandjou et de Kano dans la ville de Bertoua. Les paramètres physiques ont été évalués à l’Institut de recherche géologique et minière (IGMR) de Yaoundé, tandis que le Centre Pasteur (CP) de Yaoundé a effectué le statut bactérien de divers échantillons d’eau. Les résultats ont montré que l’eau est acide. Une faible alcalinité (HCO-3) et une faible minéralisation 35 ≤ EC ≤ 197 ont été enregistrées. Les valeurs de TDS et TSS n’ont pas dépassé les normes de l’OMS (2011) dont 1000 mg/L et 25-40 mg/L respectivement. L’eau est douce sans aucune salinité. L’examen bactériologique a révélé une forte contamination bactérienne de l’eau. La contamination microbienne concerne à la fois des bactéries fécales (E.coli, entérocoques intestinaux) et des germes suffisamment pathogènes (vibrio cholerea, Salmonella ssp). Les rapports FS/FC > 2 ont permis de conclure que les contaminations biologiques sont d’origine humaine.
Dynamics of proselytization and conversion in the Pentecostals’ healthcare interventions in Urban Tanzania
Authors: Muhoja Mussa Said
Published: May 2024

This paper explores the dynamics of proselytization and conversion in the healthcare services, and healthcare related support provided by Pentecostal organisations in Urban Tanzania. With access to healthcare and health related support remaining a critical challenge in the country, religious organizations have filled the gap left by inadequate state services. Using ethnographic methods such as participant observation, key informant interviews, and focus group discussions, the study examines the various strategies Pentecostal groups employ in their healthcare interventions to facilitate religious outreach and the procedures for supporting new converts. The findings revealed that Pentecostal organizations adopt multiple approaches to intertwine healthcare interventions with religious activities. These include an implicit approach, where religious teams are part of healthcare interventions but refrain from direct evangelization unless specific circumstances arise. Additionally, an invitational strategy is used where healthcare beneficiaries are encouraged to attend religious events such as church services and prayer meetings outside of healthcare activities. The most prevalent strategy is relational, involving the sharing of religious messages by team members and leaders before and after healthcare services and healthcare related support. The study argues that in environments marked by socio-economic instability and personal crises, the integration of healthcare and religious outreach by Pentecostal organizations not only meets immediate health needs but also plays a crucial role in the spiritual and personal transformation of individuals.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor gene expression in ankylosing spondylitis and its correlation with interleukin-17, RAR-related orphan receptor gamma t expression, and disease activity indices
Authors: Ahmadi Maryam , Soleimanifar Narjes , Rostamian Abdolrahman , Sadr Maryam , Mojtahedi Hanieh , Mazari Abeda , Hossein Nicknam Mohammad , Assadiasl Sara
Published: May 2024

Objectives: Considering the role of T helper (Th)17 cells in the pathogenesis of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), the aim of this study was to determine the correlation between aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) gene expression and the expression of Th17-related genes including interleukin (IL)-17 and RAR-related orphan receptor gamma t (RORγt) transcription factor.

Patients and methods: Thirty patients with AS (26 males, 4 females; mean age: 36.1±8.1 years) and 30 age- and sex-matched healthy individuals (26 males, 4 females; mean age: 36.2±14.6 years) were recruited for the case-control study between June 2021 and January 2022. Ribonucleic acid (RNA) was extracted from peripheral blood cells and expression levels of AHR, IL-17, RORγt, and AHR repressor (AHRR) genes were evaluated using real-time polymerase chain reaction technique. The serum level of IL-17 was evaluated with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: The results showed a nonsignificant elevation of AHR, IL-17, and RORγt gene expression in the patient group compared to the control. There was a direct correlation between AHR gene expression and IL-17 and RORγt genes and a negative correlation between AHR and AHRR expression. Moreover, AHR gene expression showed a weak correlation with disease activity indices, including Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Metrology Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Global Score, and Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life. Moreover, the serum level of IL-17 was higher in AS patients compared to the healthy group (p=0.02).

Conclusion: Upregulated expression of the AHR gene in ankylosing spondylitis and its correlation with IL-17 and ROR-γ t gene expression suggests that it could be a potential diagnostic and therapeutic target for AS.