bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Short Term Ventilation Tube in Children Having Chronic Otitis Media with Effusion
Authors: Al-Alwan Ahmed Mohammed , Kadhim Sura , Alsarhan Haider Wahab
Published: May 2024

Background:

Otitis media with effusion is a collection of fluid inside the middle ear cleft, treatment of this condition include medical and surgical methods. This research goal is to focus and specify the clinical features of OME and the association between the new staging and the postoperative findings after surgery of insertion of ventilation tubes (VTs).

Objectives:

The objective of the study was to assess postoperative sequelae after VT insertion in children.

Patients and Methods:

Thirty two children with OME with surgical insertion of short term ventilation tubes were included in this study and followed up for one year.

Results:

In 22 patients, the fluid aspirated surgically after myringotomy was serous, whereas 10 patients were mucinous; for the patients, 53.12% had recurrence, whereas 46.88% showed no recurrence of OME. Only 6.25% of cases included in this study developed myringosclerosis; no otorrhea was reported during the period of the presence of VT in the tympanic membrane, no persistent tympanic membrane perforation after VT auto-extrusion.

Conclusion:

Even though VT have shown to be very useful in solving conductive hearing loss, its efficacy is a matter of debate in preventing long-term poor effects of the tympanic membrane and delayed onset of hearing loss. Even though ventilation tubes have shown to be very useful in solving the problem of conductive hearing loss.
Hypoxia-inducible Factors: Molecular Basis and Clinical Implications
Authors: Assi Mohammed Hussein
Published: May 2024

Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) are transcriptional factors that have a vital role in regulating a diversity of cell activities in response to cellular and tissue hypoxia. To date, there are three types of HIFs (HIF-1, HIF-2, and HIF-3), all share a common structure and function, and their activations are associated with many pathological conditions, including congenital anomalies, chronic inflammation, infections, and cancer. Furthermore, stimulation and/or inhibition of HIFs can be regarded as an innovative way to prevent and treat various conditions. This review aimed to clarify the knowledge about the function of HIFs in cellular homeostasis. Moreover, it tries to summarize the functions of HIF signaling in human health and diseases and the benefits of different drugs that target HIF signaling.
Chest X-ray Findings in Community-acquired Pneumonia
Authors: Ibrahim Marwan Majeed
Published: May 2024

Background:

Community acquired pneumonia (CAP) is an important subject in pulmonary medicine and chest imaging plays a major role in the diagnosis and chest x ray (CXR) historically are the image of choice in the workup. Aims and objectives: to provide the role of chest X-ray (CXR) in diagnosis of pneumonia.

Materials and Methods:

This study which involves 185 cases of high clinical probability of CAP investigated by CXR and several patterns of infiltrates has been detected mainly lobar pneumonia followed by interstitial infiltrates then lobular and bronchopneumonic pattern. Chest x ray is not only a tool for diagnosis but also can be utilized in the follow up for resolution or development of complications.

Results:

CXR is a good modality for pneumonia diagnosis in which lobar pattern of infiltrate was the most common type 82 patient (44.3%), followed by interstitial pattern which was 57 patients (30.8%), then bronchopneumonia pattern 21 patient (11.3%) and lobular pattern 20 patient (10.8%).

Conclusions and Recommendations:

Chest x ray plays a major role in diagnosis of pneumonia, it can provide information about any structural pulmonary diseases , exclude alternative diagnoses and even giving an idea about the possible underlying pathogen and hence the antibiotic that preferred to be use; so we recommend to use CXR as an initial modality of choice in cases of suspected pneumonia.
A Morphological and Morphometric Study of Talus in Relation to Ankle Implant
Authors: Singh Archana , Singh Arun
Published: May 2024

Background:

The talus is the second-largest tarsal bone. Morphometric analysis of both sides of the talus is necessary to know the right–left symmetry for implant design and for mechanical testing for surgeons and orthopedicians. Hence, this study was done to observe the facets of the inferior surface of the talus and to measure the morphometric parameters of the talus.

Methodology:

This cross-sectional study was carried out on a total of 66 dry adult human tali (33 of the right side and 33 of the left side). Morphologically, the types of articular facets on the head of the talus were assessed and classified as done by Boyan et al. as -Type A1, Type A2, Type A3, Type A4, Type B, and Type C. Morphometric evaluation of talus was done with the help of digital vernier caliper, and anteroposterior distance (length), maximum transverse width, vertical height of talus, length of sulcus tali, width of sulcus tali, depth of sulcus tali, and head–neck length (HNL) of talus were measures. Neck-body angle of the talus was also measured. Statistical analysis was performed, and data were expressed as mean, minimum, maximum values, and standard deviation.

Results:

In the present study, Type A1 facet was found in 51.5% of the talus, in 28.8% of Type A2, in 12.1% of Type A3, in 1.5% of Type A4, in 6.5% of Type B, and none of Type C facet found. The mean length, width, and height of the talus were 52.74 ± 4.39 mm, 31.45 ± 2.74 mm, and 25.93 ± 2.64 mm, respectively. The width, length, and depth of sulcus tali were 5.9 ± 1.02 mm, 21.88 ± 3.07 mm, and 5.52 ± 1.25 mm, respectively. HNL of talus was 15.72 ± 2.73 mm, and neck-body angle of the talus was 153.88° ±4.64°, respectively. No statistically significant difference was found on both sides except neck-body angle, where P = 0.031 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion:

The values of neck-body angle of the right side talus were higher than the left side, and the difference was statistically significant. Hence, the measurement of this study may help the surgeons to choose the appropriate size of the prosthesis for talus implantation surgeries.
Morphometric Study of Fissures of Lung with its Clinical Implications
Authors: Singh Sabita , Baa Jeneeta , Soy Arpita , Sar Mamata , Bara Dibya Prabha
Published: May 2024

Background:

Complete or incomplete fissures divide the lung into lobes. Fissures can also be absent in the lung. Quantitative assessment of the completeness of fissures can be helpful for surgeons and radiologists during invasive procedures related to the lung. Hence, the present study was undertaken to record the extent of completeness of fissures, contour of the fissural surface of lobes, and accessory fissures.

Methodology:

The present study was done on 78 (right-40 and left-38) formalin-fixed random lung specimens obtained from adult cadavers.

Results:

Majority of oblique oblique fissures were incomplete (left-60.5% and right-60%). The absence of fissures was mainly seen in horizontal fissures (25%). Quantitative assessment for the degree of pulmonary fissure completeness showed that G0 and G3 were found more in the right oblique fissure (ROF) and horizontal fissure, G1 and G2 more in the left and ROF, respectively. Fissural surface of lower lobe was concave in the upper part and convex in the lower part, whereas fissural surface of middle lobe was convex in the majority of cases. Accessory fissures were found in 21.8%. Azygos fissure was present in two right lungs. A strong correlation was found between the depth of oblique fissure and the thickness of left lung.

Conclusion:

High frequency of incomplete fissures was found. Accessory fissures were commonly observed in the right lung. A wide range of variations in the completeness of fissures was noticed between the present and previous studies. Hence, surgeons and radiologists should be alert of these variations for surgical planning and interpretation of radiological images.
Rare Anatomic Variant
Authors: Gardner Michael T. , Cawich Shamir O. , Shetty Ramanand , Lodenquai Patrick , Zheng Yuxue
Published: May 2024

Background:

The celiac-mesenteric trunk is an anatomic variant where there is a common origin for the superior mesenteric artery and celiac trunk. We sought to determine the prevalence of this variation in an Afro-Caribbean population.

Methodology:

Anatomic dissections were observed over 5 years, and specimens with celiac-mesenteric trunks were identified for detailed investigation. We measured celiac-mesenteric trunk diameters at their origin from the aorta.

Results:

Dissections were performed in sixty-nine cadavers at a mean age of 68 years (range 55–85). Only one celiac-mesenteric trunk (1.5%) was encountered in an Afro-Caribbean male. This cadaver had no other morphologic anomalies. The celiac-mesenteric trunk had an internal diameter of 13.06 mm at its origin (55% aortic diameter).

Conclusion:

In this Afro-Caribbean population, a celiac-mesenteric trunk was found in 1.5% of unselected cadavers. This formidable vessel was 55% of the aortic diameter. Therefore, healthcare professionals must be aware of this variant to avoid inadvertent injury during clinical interventions.
Ovotesticular Disorder of Sex Development in a Tertiary Care Center in North India: A Single-center Analysis over a 5-year Period
Authors: Chowdhary Sarita , Upadhayaya Maneesha , Rai Gunjan , Kaur Manpreet , Singh Nitish Kumar , Sharma Kanika , Yadav Ritesh , Naik Bitan , Sharma Shiv Prasad , Singh Royana
Published: May 2024

Background:

Disorders of sexual development (DSD) encompass a group of congenital conditions characterized by diverse genotypic and phenotypic variations. Ovotesticular (OT) DSD is a distinctive subtype within this spectrum. Among the array of DSD, OT-DSD stands as one of the most infrequent anomalies, with reported prevalence rates as scarce as 1 in 83,000. This study aims to elucidate the clinical, hormonal, cytogenetic, surgical, and histopathological characteristics of OT disorder of sex development (OT-DSD) within a tertiary center in North India.

Methodology:

A retrospective analysis was conducted, involving a comprehensive review of records pertaining to OT-DSD patients from the years 2018 to 2022, all of whom were incorporated into the study.

Results:

The mean age of presentation in this study was 10 years, spanning from 6 to 15 years. Predominantly, the affected individuals were male, with a solitary patient representing the female category. Clinical manifestations displayed a spectrum encompassing genital ambiguity, inguinal swelling, and primary amenorrhea. The karyotypes observed were 46,XX in four patients and 46,XY in one patient. A holistic assessment, inclusive of clinical evaluation, hormonal assays, pelvic ultrasonography, and surgical intervention when necessary, was administered to all patients. Among these cases, three patients were reared as males, their gender assignment driven by external genital appearance and sociocultural influences. Notably, none of the patients manifested gonadal tumors during the course of the study.

Conclusion:

In cases of ambiguous genitalia, the consideration of OT-DSD should be integral to the differential diagnosis, underscoring the significance of heightened clinical awareness and informed decision-making.
An Observational Study of Human Fetal Acetabulum in Western Tamilnadu
Authors: Mathivanan Dharmalingam , Nirmaladevi Murugesan , Jamuna Meenakshisundaram
Published: May 2024

Background:

Ten percent of congenital dislocation of hip (CDH) is familial. Many previous studies attribute shallow acetabular cavity (dysplasia trait) as the main reason. Anthropological studies revealed different observations of fetal acetabulum, regarding the side and gender involvement of CDH due to varied geographical conditions and genetical traits. With this backdrop, the study was designed to assess the morphological and morphometric parameters of fetal acetabulum in western Tamil Nadu population.

Methodology:

Thirty fetuses (15 males and 15 females) were obtained from the O and G Department of PSG Institute of Medical Sciences and Research. Fetuses were grouped into three groups under the age criteria as 12–20 weeks, 21–30 weeks, and 31–40 weeks. The diameter, depth, and shape of the acetabulum were observed and documented for gender and side variations.

Results:

In our study, there was a significant correlation between the parameters taken. With advance in the gestational, there was a significant increase in diameter of the acetabulum. The acetabular cavity had become shallower with an increase in age of the fetus.

Conclusions:

In our study, there were no significant differences observed in the morphology & morphometry of acetabulum wrt side and gender of the fetuses.
Novel Finding: Hyo-mandibular Ligament- A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Neill Meghan , Nation Haley
Published: May 2024

Background:

Many anatomical variations have been described in the deep neck; several of these are associated with the hyolarynx complex, consisting of the styloid process, hyoid bone, stylohyoid ligament, and thyroid, cricoid, and arytenoid cartilages as well as their associated ligaments.

Methodology:

An anterolateral deep dissection of the neck was performed bilaterally in 37 donors.

Results:

A novel ligament was found to connect the lesser horns of the hyoid bone to the angle of the mandible bilaterally in seven body donors (a total of 14 sides). To the best of our knowledge, the presence or function of a ligament connecting the lesser horns of the hyoid bone to the mandible has never been previously described or reported. Due to its proximal and distal attachment sites, we have termed this finding a “hyomandibular ligament.”

Conclusion:

This unique finding is clinically relevant and may add insight into the structural and functional variations of the deep neck. Knowledge of this structure and similar anatomical variations may provide an explanation for idiopathic difficulties, chewing or swallowing as a by-product of limited hyoideal mobility.
Prediction of the survival status and tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer through genotyping analysis based on toll-like receptors
Authors: Peng Huaidu , Zhang Junshuo , Yang Zehuang , Chen Lixin , Chen Jinhong , Cai Chudong
Published: May 2024

Background:

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks third in both the incidence and mortality rates among male and female cancers, and it is the leading digestive system cancer. Due to the inter- and intratumor heterogeneity of cancer, the TNM system is insufficient for predicting prognosis, necessitating the use of molecular biomarkers for prognostic prediction. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) have been associated with CRC survival rates. This study focused on the investigation of the role and potential value of TLRs in CRC genotyping to aid in immunotherapy for CRC patients.

Methods:

Differential gene expression analysis was performed on CRC transcriptomic data from The Cancer Genome Atlas database. TLRs were referred from the literature, and their intersection with differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in CRC yielded TLR-DEGs. The expression patterns of TLR-DEGs were predicted using the STRING website, and copy number variations of TLR-DEGs were analyzed. Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were conducted on TLR-DEGs. ConsensusClusterPlus R package was used for clustering CRC patients, and ESTIMATE and GSEAbase were employed to analyze immune characteristics of different subtypes. Immune phenotyping scores and tumor immune dysfunction and exclusion scores were evaluated. DEGs of different subtypes were analyzed, followed by GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, the protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis, and further selection of hub genes. The sensitivity of drugs was assessed using the identified hub genes.

Results:

We identified 37 TLR-DEGs, and the PPI analysis revealed their coexpression, although they were distributed on different chromosomes. Enrichment analyses indicated that the 37 TLR-DEGs were linked to cancer cell immune response. Based on these TLR-DEGs, CRC patients were classified into three subtypes. Cluster2 exhibited lower survival rates and higher immune infiltration levels and predicted poorer response to immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy. The intersection of DEGs from cluster2 and cluster1 with DEGs from cluster2 and cluster3 yielded a set of 426 commonly shared DEGs. Enrichment analyses revealed that these shared DEGs might regulate immune cell viability. Eight common hub genes for different subtypes were further identified to predict drug-related correlations.

Conclusion:

The developed TLR genotyping was used to predict the survival status and tumor microenvironment of CRC, providing a foundation for understanding the molecular mechanisms of TLR signaling and deepening its clinical significance.
Ratio of oxygen saturation index for predicting high-flow nasal cannula outcomes in emergency department for COVID-19 patients with severe hypoxemia
Authors: Karam Cynthia , Oseili Ahmad , Shebbo Fadia M. , Fakih Mohamad , El-Khatib Mohamad F.
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES:

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy has been used as an initial ventilatory support for coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients with mixed levels of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure (AHRF). However, the effectiveness of HFNC when used as initial ventilatory support in COVID-19 patients with severe AHRF exclusively is not well documented. Ratio of oxygen saturation (ROX) index (ROX = [SpO2/fraction of inspired oxygen]/respiratory rate) was shown to predict the outcome of HFNC in intensive care unit patients. Our study aimed to evaluate the utility of the ROX index for predicting HFNC therapy success/failure in COVID-19 patients with severe AHRF when HFNC is used as the first line of ventilatory support.

METHODS:

Retrospective study in 67 COVID-19 patients with severe AHRF receiving HFNC in the emergency department at a tertiary care academic medical center. ROX index was determined at 0, 2, 6, 12, and 24 h of HFNC onset. The need to escalate to noninvasive or invasive ventilatory support was documented. The receiver operating characteristic curves were performed and areas under the curves (AUCs) were calculated to evaluate the accuracy of ROX index for differentiating between patients who will succeed or fail HFNC therapy.

RESULTS:

HFNC therapy was successful in 19 patients (28.1%) and failed in 48 patients (71.6%). ROX index after 6 h of HFNC initiation had the best predictive capacity for the outcome of HFNC therapy (AUC = 0.78). ROX index >4.4 at 6 h of HFNC onset was significantly associated with HFNC success/failure.

CONCLUSION:

ROX index at 6 h after initiating HFNC therapy in COVID-19 patients with severe AHRF has a good predictive capacity for HFNC success/failure.
A case presented with fever enlightened by cardiac auscultation
Authors: Yavuz Yavuz Fatih , Toprak Nazmi , Kavalci Cemil , Yilmaz Fevzi
Published: May 2024

In the emergency department, there are many symptoms patients present. One of the major symptoms is fever which could be the only symptom, as our patient had. Not only do infections, drugs, trauma, etc., cause fever, but also undetermined cancer types do. In this case, we are presenting a 28-year-old male coming with a 3-week duration of fever and being admitted with the diagnosis of pulmonary artery intimal sarcoma as generally misconceived with pulmonary thromboembolism, to raise awareness of this fatal cancer.
О логиках доказуемости арифметики Нибергалля
Authors: Dvorkin Lev Veniaminovich
Published: May 2024

К. Г. Нибергалль предложил простой пример негeделевой арифметической теории $\mathrm{NA}$, в которой доказуема естественная формализация утверждения о собственной непротиворечивости. В настоящей работе рассмотрена логика доказуемости $\mathrm{NA}$ относительно арифметики Пеано. Для нее описан класс конечных шкал Крипке и установлена теорема о полноте. Для консервативного расширения данной логики в языке с дополнительной пропозициональной константой получена конечная аксиоматизация. Также рассмотрены истинностная логика доказуемости $\mathrm{NA}$ и логика доказуемости $\mathrm{NA}$ относительно самой $\mathrm{NA}$. Описаны классы моделей Крипке, относительно которых данные логики полны. Установлена $\mathrm{PSpace}$-полнота проблемы выводимости в перечисленных логиках и описаны их замкнутые фрагменты. Для логики доказуемости $\mathrm{NA}$ относительно арифметики Пеано установлено отсутствие интерполяционного свойства Крейга.
Библиография: 19 наименований.
Field evaluation of M4 plants obtained from induced mutation of tomato ‘Cobra’ variety with ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS)
Authors: Ilo G.E. , Uguru M.I. , Ogbonna P.E. , Amuji C.F.
Published: May 2024

Crop improvement through induced mutation has resulted in the development of new mutant varieties worldwide. Alkylating agents such as ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) are widely used to induce mutations in plants due to their ability to cause changes in the nucleotide sequence. In this study, a field experiment was conducted at the University of Nigeria Nsukka in southeastern Nigeria to evaluate M4 plants of tomato variety ‘Cobra’ obtained from selections in the third generation (M3) plants in the field. Seeds of the cobra tomatoes were subjected to induced mutation using different concentrations of ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS). Before this study, selections based on desired horticultural traits were carried out in the first-generation mutant (M1), second generation mutant (M2), and third generation (M3). Eight different mutants were selected and evaluated in the field as M4 plants. Variations were bserved in both the qualitative and quantitative traits studied. Average fruit weight of 1.118 kg per plant and 23.60 fruits per plant were recorded for variant 3 as against the parent plant that had 479 g per plant and produced 14 fruits per plant. Other promising mutants in terms of fruit yield per plant were variant 5 (1.079 kg) a variant 2 (1.069 kg). Remarkably, there was no incidence of blossom end rot in all the M4 variants evaluated.
Towards up scaling integrated faba bean gall disease management in South Gondar Zone, Western Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Alemayehu Mulugeta , Awoke Yihenew , Tilahun Daniel
Published: May 2024

Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is a major staple food and an important pulse crop in terms of area coverage and volume of annual production in Ethiopia. However, its productivity is declining due to the newly emerged faba bean gall disease. The disease also occurs under smallholder farmers' conditions in the Amhara region, although the information regarding its status and management practices is limited. Therefore, this pre-scaling up activity was conducted in 2020 and 2021 in South Gonder Zone of the Amhara Region with the objectives promoting improved management of faba bean gall disease, creating and strengthening linkage among stakeholders involved in faba bean production, and enhancing the availability of Wolki and Hachalu improved faba bean varieties with other components of the package. Host farmers were selected in collaboration with development agents and experts of the woreda (district) based on their interest in engaging with diligence and vigor. Training was provided to host farmers, development agents, and agricultural experts. A partial budget analysis was used to compare the benefit of integrated faba bean gall disease management with that of the local variety with local practices. The result shows that the Marginal Rate of Return (MRR) of Wolki was 464% in Ebenat and 435% in Libokemkem, while Hachalu variety has given a MRR of 560 in Farta and 386% in Libokemkem. As the result of the intervention, demand for faba bean gall disease management technology package was created, and linkage among the main actors was established and farmers acquired some amounts of improved seeds for future use. Therefore, as the MRR for the package in the study area is above 100%, it is worthwhile to upscale the packages to ensure the income, food, and nutrition security of rural households in the Amhara region and beyond where the crop is important.
Land management and the Bayaa institution: The enduring impact of Kasena-Nankana mortuary practises
Authors: Aketema Joseph
Published: May 2024

The significantly enduring traditional Kasena-Nankana Bayaase or Bayaaro institution is one of the profound cultural institutions that serve its communities' spiritual and mortal needs in diverse ways. A pall-bearer ritually fortified to execute indigenous morturary and burial practices. This ritual, per its very nature and function, may appear unenticing but is indispensable when it comes to preparing the dead for final travel, and the appeasement of Mother Earth. This institution has since not received deeper scholarly attention and is currently facing challenges resulting from enculturation, sheer neglect, and conflict with adherents of the Christian faith. While the expected harm to face when a deceased person’s mortals and spirits are not properly and customarily interred has been the major discussion of some scholars, there is still the need to offer deeper traditional and cultural insights into this institution, considering the increasing erosion of most indigenous cultural institutions and with that, the unpalatable resultant effects. The paper scrutinises some of the key traditional practices, challenges, and services of the Bayaa institution through a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) of six seasoned Bayaase of high ranks within the Kasena-Nankana speaking areas of Navrongo. The study shows that the increasing Christian population and its ‘strange’ doctrines regarding traditional burial rites conflict with the age-long traditional practices of the Bayaase. The paper will show that from the dialogue with the Bayaase, it emerged that being subservient to traditional authority and incorporating elements of traditions that do not require traditional sacrifices are seen as one of the means for peaceful co-existence.
Re-imagining indigenous African epistemological entanglement and resilience adaptation in the Anthropocene
Authors: Amo-Agyemang Charles
Published: May 2024

This paper examines how indigenous African communities have become critical for developing epistemologies of relation and entanglement in the dominant problem of contemporary resilience understandings of adaptation in the Anthropocene imaginary. Grounded in the indigenous African epistemological philosophies, this paper explores critical alternative futural framings that directly oppose the modernist epistemological understandings of resilience imaginaries in the Anthropocene. The analysis presented here is based on understanding indigenous non-modern ways of knowing as key in the context of ecological crisis in the Anthropocene resilience. This paper argues that reductionist modernist epistemology fails to fully acknowledge how alternative futural imaginaries of indigenous non-modern ways of knowing have become central to critical Anthropocene resilience approaches in the discipline of International Relations. In contrast, this paper explores indigenous African epistemologies of relation and entanglement as alternative futural imaginaries that better capture resilience climate adaptation in the Anthropocene. The paper concludes that focusing on resilience and understandings of adaptation in the Anthropocene opens other possibilities for the development of indigenous non-modern ways of knowing.
Optimization of Material Removal Rate in Computer Numerical Control Lathe Machine in Turning AISI 1040 Steel
Authors: Ntukidem B. I. , Achebo J. I. , Ozigagun A. , Uwoghiren F. O. , Obahiagbon K. O.
Published: May 2024

The Computer Numerical Control (CNC) of a Lathe Machine helps in shaping hard materials like metal and wood, while rotating on two axes and the amount of materials removed per unit time during the production process provides the material removal rate (MRR). Hence, the objective of this paper was to optimize the Material Removal Rate in a Computer Numerical Control Lathe Machine in Turning AISI 1040 Steel while focusing on cutting parameters such as depth of cut, cutting speed, and feed rate. Employing a central composite design with twenty experimental runs, ANOVA analysis revealed cutting speed (F-value: 80.40) as the most influential parameter on MRR. Initially, Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) predicted MRR, yielding optimal parameters: depth of cut (0.25 mm), cutting speed (250 m/min), feed rate (0.20 mm/rev), resulting in MRR of 27.88 mm3/min. Genetic Algorithm (GA) optimization surpassed ANN, yielding higher MRR (29.07442 mm3/min) with optimal parameters: depth of cut (0.65 mm), cutting speed (221.09 m/min), and feed rate (0.21 mm/rev). Confirmatory tests validated predictions. This study provides insights into enhancing CNC turning efficiency and productivity.
Physicochemical Analysis of Untreated Municipal Wastewater for Irrigation Purposes in Chiro Town, West Hararghe, Ethiopia
Authors: Amensisa Y. E. , Lenjiso A. H. , Abdeta B. A. , Gobosho A. A.
Published: May 2024

Reuse of wastewater for irrigation is certainly an effective substitute, especially in developing countries where there is a scarcity of fresh water, depletion of groundwater, the cost of pumping underground water, and the supply of some valuable plant nutrients. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to assess the suitability of untreated municipal wastewater (UMWW) for irrigation purposes in Chiro town, west Hararghe zone, Ethiopia using relevant standard methods. The results obtained show that the average values of hydrogen ion concentration (pH) and electrical conductivity (EC) in the sample were 7.48 and 2.54 dS/m. The average values obtained for the principal cations (Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, and Na+) and anions (Cl-, CO32-, SO42-, HCO3-) were (119.56, 38.10, 13.00, and 58.00) mg/L and (88.75, 0.00, 11.91,705.6) mg/L, respectively.  The experimental results obtained for other miscellaneous factors, such as total suspended solids (TSS), total dissolved solids (TDS), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), are 90.0, 695.0, and 136.0 in mg/L. Throughout this study, the salinity hazard was assessed by analyzing the combination of TDS and EC values. The sodium hazard was evaluated by analyzing crucial factors such as sodium adsorption ratio (SAR), soluble sodium percentage (SSP), and residual sodium carbonate (RSC). Finally, the study findings of all relevant quality parameters for irrigation water revealed that the tested UMWW sample can be used in irrigation with a slight to moderate degree of restriction of use.
Socio-Economic Factors Influencing the Use of Information and Communication Technology for Accessing Agricultural Information among Cowpea Farmers in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Makwin M. F. , Bako S. A. , Selzing P. M. , Dalla A. A.
Published: May 2024

The objective of the study was to determine socio-economic factors influencing the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for accessing agricultural information among cowpea farmers in Alkaleri Local Government Area of Bauchi State, Nigeria using using structured questionnaire. The result of the study showed that 83.33% of the respondents were males and about 77.50% of the cowpea farmers were married. Findings from the study also revealed that the mean age of the respondents was 39 year while the mean farming experience of the cowpea farmers was 18.60 years. Findings on educational status show that majority of the farmers had one form of formal education or another. The result also reveals that 70% of the cowpea farmers had no contact with an extension services. The co-efficient of gender and education were both positive and significant at 1% level and the co-efficient of farming experience was significant at 5%. Some of the major problems identified include unstable power supply, unaffordable cost of ICT tools, and lack of technical know-how and lack of confidence to operate ICTs. It was concluded that education, gender and farming experience were the socioeconomic variables that determine the use of ICTs for agricultural information on cowpea production among small holder farmers in the study area. It was recommended that trainings should be organized to help small holders cowpea farmers acquire the skills needed to operate ICTs tools, help them gain confidence on how to use ICTs, thereby facilitating adoption and use of ICTs for agricultural information.
Assessment of Physicochemical Properties of Laundry Soaps Prepared From Mango and Avocado Seed Oils and Their Blends: Giving Attention to Fruit Left Overs
Authors: Legesse A. , Mengisteab M.
Published: May 2024

It is a common practice to use oils extracted from fruits seeds for soap making. The oils are non-edible to avoid food competition. The objective of the present study was to assess the possibility of preparing a soap of acceptable quality from oils extracted from seeds of Avocado and Mango. The ground Avocado and Mango seeds were subjected to Soxhlet extraction technique using n-hexane as an organic solvent. The oil yield of 2.43% and 1.32% were obtained for Avocado seed and Mango seed samples, respectively. The analyses of the physicochemical properties such as saponification value, acid value, percent free fatty acid, and relative density were found to be 25.245 and 84.15, 30.86 and 30.85, 6.26 and 6.26, 0.87 and 0.83, respectively, and the data were in favor of utilization of the oils in soap making. Moreover, the blends of extracted Avocado and Mango seed oils in a 1:1, 3:1 and 1:3 ratios (by mass) revealed Saponification values of 151.47, 162.69, 214.62, respectively; total fatty matter contents of 59±1.41, 63 ± 1.41, 67±1.41, respectively; total alkali contents of 1.44 ± 0.03, 1.715 ± 0.08, 1.77 ± 0.13, respectively. The pH values of soaps prepared from the two oils and their blends were found to be in the range of 9.6-10.15. The data are comparable to commercial soaps and also suggest that the prepared soaps from the extracted oils can be used for cleaning purpose without any harm on human skin.
Morphological and microchemical signatures of alluvial gold and electrum grains from the Tcholliré gold district, northern Cameroon: Insights to potential epithermal gold system in the area
Authors: Ngatcha Ralain Bryan , Ateh Kevin Ijunghi , Vishiti Akumbom , Ntantan Ephesians Nchinda , Nsake Ngum Nelson , Njoh Olivier Anoh , Suh Cheo Emmanuel
Published: May 2024

The Tcholliré district, located in the Adamawa-Yadé Domain (AYD) of the Neoproterozoic Fold Belt of Cameroon (NFBC), hosts some alluvial gold mining sites. The morphological and chemical signatures of the alluvial gold grains from these mining sites are yet to be described. Thus, we describe for the first  time the morphology, microtexture, and chemical features of gold and electrum grains and other heavy minerals, notably cassiterite, recovered from stream sediments from the Tcholliré district drainage system, discuss distance-to-source, and trace the possible source(s) of gold mineralization and type. A total of 33 gold-electrum grains recovered from the gravel layer in two pits dug along stream channels were analysed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM)-energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) and electron probe microanalyses (EMPA). The gold grains display angular, irregular to sub-rounded morphologies,  ndicating a close distance hypogene source. Gold in the concentrate is associated with phases such as zircon, cassiterite, and sulfides (e.g., anglesite and tetrahedrite). Inclusions such as quartz, clay minerals, and ilmenite occur in the gold grains and point to a granitoid-related host. Gold grains are mainly alloyed with Ag and Cu with contents as high as 67.17 wt. % Ag (electrum) and 23.54 wt. % Cu. These are thehighest combined Ag and Cu values reported in gold grains in Cameroon thus far. The variation in the concentration of Au and Ag from core to rim is slightly heterogeneous. Such elevated Ag contents in the rim section reflects recently liberated grains from the source. The compositional range of Ag and Cu coupled with the presence of electrum and cassiterite are consistent with a single high-sulfidation and high- temperature magmatic-hydrothermal origin possibly linked to epithermal activity of the Cameroon Volcanic Line.
Effects of interest and exchange rate volatility on stock returns: Evidence from the financial sector of Tanzania
Authors: Komba Coretha , Sobe Peter Anton , Mwakujonga Joshua
Published: May 2024

This study analyzes the impact of interest and exchange rate volatility on financial sector stock returns in Tanzania. The study adopted secondary time-series data from 2014 to 2021. In data analysis, the study also utilized the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL)bound test approach to establish the long and short-term effects of the independent variable of interest on stock returns. Results showed a long-term inverse relationship between interest rates and financial sector stock returns. However, during the specific period from June 2014 to April 2021, interest rates were insignificant in affecting stock returns despite the inverse trend. In contrast, exchange rates significantly affected stock return fluctuations, showing a short-term inverse relationship. The study recommends that the government undertake actions to stabilize exchange rate increases and control interest rate volatility to boost investors’ confidence, given their significant influence on stock market volatility.
Demographic Determinants for Owning Bank Accounts: A Case of Tanzania
Authors: Komba Coretha , Mwakujonga Joshua
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the demographic determinants of owning bank accounts among Tanzanians. This study used cross-sectional secondary data from the Tanzania Mainland Household Budget Survey of 2017. Data analysis was performed by using a logistic  regression model because of having a binary dependent variable. The study reveals that age, marital status, education level, employment  status, and place of residence significantly affect ownership of bank accounts among Tanzanians. However, no evidence to  suggest gender influences ownership of bank accounts as both males and females have similar odds of owning bank accounts. The study  recommends banks promote the practice of saving money in banks for individuals not engaged in formal employment, such as the  self-employed, domestic workers, and casual labourers. In addition, banks and the government should participate in enhancing financial literacy education among Tanzanians, especially from lower levels of education. Moreover, the government should create conducive infrastructures in rural areas that will permit banks to provide banking services. This is important as the majority of Tanzania’s   population resides in rural areas.
Biogenic synthesis of silver nanoparticles using leaf extracts of Chromolaena odorata, Tithonia diversifolia and Solenostemon monostachyus
Authors: Olawepo G.K. , Adeniran D.A. , Ekundayo T.O. , Adewumi G.A.
Published: May 2024

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are highly valued across various scientific fields for their diverse applications in daily life. Sustainable and eco-friendly methods are essential for their synthesis. This study demostrated an alternative, safe, cost-effective and environmentally-friendly approach by utilising leaf extracts from Chromolaena odorata (CO), Tithonia diversifolia (TD) and Solenostemon monostachyus (SM) to biogenically synthesise AgNPs. The resulting colours indicating AgNP synthesis were brown, yellow and brown, respectively. Characterisation of the AgNPs was conducted using UV-Vis spectroscopy, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). UV-Vis spectra exhibited strong absorption peaks at 445 nm, 437 nm and 430 nm for AgNPs synthesised with CO, TD and SM leaf extracts, respectively. The synthesised AgNPs displayed predominantly spherical morphology, with some triangular and rod-like shapes observed in CO AgNPs, averaging 27.48 nm, 49.64 nm, and 25.76nm in size for CO, TD and SM, respectively. FTIR analysis revealed absorption bands at specific wavenumbers, indicating the importance of carbonyl stretch of amides and O–H functional group vibrations in the bio-reduction, capping and stabilisation of AgNPs.
Production of seed tubers from true potato seed in Jos- Plateau, Nigeria
Authors: Daniel Blessing Machen , Deshi Kyenpiya Eunice
Published: May 2024

An experiment was carried out to evaluate the growth of seedling tubers produced from true potato seed (TPS) for selection of superior clones to produce seed tubers in Jos, Plateau State, Nigeria. A completely randomised design (CRD) was used. The treatment consisted of 15 seed tuber clones produced from TPS and replicated 3 times; each replicate consisted of five plant stands. The parameters assessed included establishment rate, number of above-ground stems per plant, number of leaves per plant, mean plant height, mean number of tubers, mean tuber weight and dry matter content. Generally, the clones varied significantly in all the vegetative and yield parameters assessed. Clones 1, 2, 3, 5, 6 and 11 had a significantly higher number of tubers than clone 10. Clone 1 had the highest mean tuber weight while clone 4 had the least. Clone 10 which had the lowest number of tubers resulted in the highest dry matter. It is concluded that clones 1,2,3,5,6,7 and 11 can be selected for high multiplication ratio, yield and dry matter content.
"Şiir Hakkında Bazı Mülahazalar" Çerçevesinde Ahmet Haşim'in Şiir Anlayışına Poetik Yaklaşımlar
Authors: Şahin Güngör
Published: May 2024

Ahmet Haşim, Dergâh dergisinin 15 Nisan 1921 tarihli sayısında yayınlanan “Bir Günün Sonunda Arzu” başlıklı şiiriyle edebiyat dünyasında büyük yankı uyandırır. “Göl Saatleri”nden sonra şiir anlayışında dikkat çeken bir safhaya geçen Ahmet Haşim’in bu şiiri üzerine, dergi ve gazetelerde alaycı yazılar ve tenkitler yer alır. Şiirinin müphem, manasız ve vuzuhsuz olduğu savıyla eleştirilir. Bu tenkitler üzerine Ahmet Haşim aynı yıl 5 Ağustos 1921 tarihinde, Dergâh dergisinde “Şiirde Mâna” başlıklı yazısını yayınlayarak şiir hakkındaki görüşlerini ifade eder. Saf şiir taraftarlarının estetik görüşlerinin temelini oluşturan bu yazı bazı değişikliklerle; “Şiir Hakkında Bazı Mülahazalar” başlığıyla 1926 yılında Piyale şiir kitabının mukaddimesi olarak yayınlanır. Ahmet Haşim’in “Bir Günün Sonunda Arzu” başlıklı şiirine karşı eleştirilere bir cevap niteliğindeki yazısı, “mana” ve “vuzuh” kavramları etrafında oluşturulan poetik bir müdafaadır. Haşim’in poetikası daha sonraki dönemlerde saf şiir, sembolizm ve empresyonizm kavramları etrafında değerlendirilerek anlamlandırılmaya çalışılır. Fransız saf şiir ve sembolizm temsilcilerinin Ahmet Haşim üzerindeki etkileri ve ilhamı da Haşim’in şiirinin çözümlenmesinde bir yol haritası teşkil eder. Çalışmanın amacı; Ahmet Haşim’in “Şiir Hakkında Bazı Mülahazalar” başlıklı makalesinden yola çıkarak -şairlerin ve edebiyat araştırmacılarının görüşleri çerçevesinde- Ahmet Haşim’in poetikasını değerlendirmektir. Çalışmada, Ahmet Haşim’in poetikasını oluştururken etkilendiği kaynaklar ve bu etkilenmelerin değerlendirmeleri ele alınmıştır.
Comparison of the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein with hyaluronic acid and corticosteroids on an experimental rat osteoarthritis model
Authors: Emre Gökdemir Cemil , Malik Okuyan Hamza , Karaboğa İhsan , Yusuf Terzi Menderes , Kalacı Aydıner
Published: May 2024

Objectives: This study sought to compare the protective effect of the upper zone of the growth plate and unique cartilage matrix-associated protein (UCMA) with hyaluronic acid (HA) and corticosteroids (CS) in a rat model of osteoarthritis (OA).

Materials and methods: In the experimental animal study, 40 adult male rats were randomly assigned into five groups: control, monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) + vehicle (MIA+V), MIA+HA, MIA+CS, and MIA+UCMA. The OA model was induced by an intra-articular MIA injection to the right knee, and intra-articular injections into the right knee were performed on the treatment groups seven times every three days for 21 days. The knee joints were taken for histopathology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) analyses after the rats were sacrificed. All sections were stained with hematoxylin-eosin, safranin O and fast green FCF, and toluidine blue, and bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP-2) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) expressions were analyzed with IHC. The Mankin scoring was utilized to determine the histopathological changes in the joint tissues.

Results: Mankin score was significantly higher in the MIA group compared to the control group. Histopathologically, in the UCMA-, HA-, and CS-treated groups, degenerations in the articular cartilage were milder than in the MIA+V group. Mankin score was found to be decreased significantly in the UCMA-, HA-, and CS-treated groups compared to the MIA group. Furthermore, IHC analyses revealed that NF-κB and BMP-2 expressions elevated in the MIA-induced OA model, while they were downregulated after UCMA, HA, and CS treatments.

Conclusion: Our data revealed that UCMA could be used as a potential protective molecule in the prevention and treatment of OA. Furthermore, the protective effect of UCMA was similar to HA and CS, and its possible beneficial roles against OA may be linked to the reduced BMP-2 and NF-κB levels. Further experimental research would make significant contributions to a better understanding of the therapeutic effect of UCMA on degenerative cartilage tissues.
Estrategias didácticas para identificar y nutrir el talento de niños superdotados en entornos multiculturales
Authors: Velásquez Mendoza Sandy Esperanza , Pin Posligua Jean Pierre , Marín Martin , Arrobba Cárdenas Ángel Enrique
Published: May 2024

El presente trabajo destaca la importancia de adaptar enfoques pedagógicos a la diversidad cultural en las aulas para identificar y apoyar a niños superdotados. El problema abordado es la falta de estrategias didácticas adecuadas para este fin, lo que puede limitar su desarrollo académico y emocional en entornos multiculturales. El objetivo es explorar estrategias para identificar y desarrollar el talento en niños superdotados, especialmente en contextos multiculturales, brindando herramientas a educadores para reconocer y potenciar sus habilidades. La metodología documental y bibliográfica de los últimos 5 años, realizada en bases de datos científicas como: Dialnet, Scopus, Scielo, Latindex, Redalyc, Web of Science, permitió comprender profundamente las estrategias existentes y proponer mejoras. Los resultados del análisis de la literatura y la tecnología educativa destacan la efectividad de esta última en interactuar con estos niños, fomentando su aptitud imaginativa, investigativa y curiosidad cognitiva. En conclusión, se subraya la necesidad de estrategias inclusivas para identificar y desarrollar el potencial de estos niños en contextos culturalmente diversos, proponiendo recomendaciones para mejorar la equidad y calidad educativa.