bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Rare Case of Late-onset Hemochromatosis Due to H63D Syndrome, a Diagnostic Challenge
Authors: Risly N. M. M. , Jayasinghe I. K. , Athauda N. , Eranga T. , Sahana J. F.
Published: December 2024

H63D Syndrome (linked to a rarer H63D mutation in the HFE gene than the commoner C282Y mutation) despite causing mild iron overload can lead to significant morbidity than typical hemochromatosis. A 60-year-old, presented with Bell’s palsy, on further enquiry, had generalized pruritus, constipation, and neuropsychiatric involvement. Also, examination showed mild jaundice, cogwheel rigidity, and hyperpigmented face. Investigations revealed features of Child B cirrhosis with high transferrin saturation (TSAT) and hyperferritinemia with ultrasound confirmation. Genetics revealed a homozygous H63D mutation. He was treated with ferritin, TSAT, haemoglobin-guided venesections and iron chelation therapy (by deferasirox) with symptomatic management. He significantly improved clinically and biochemically highlighting the need for genetic testing when diagnosing hemochromatosis and ensuring biochemically guided treatment.
Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis in orthopedic surgery: a narrative review
Authors: Gallitto Sarah , Varkey Thomas C. , Lahti Jacob
Published: December 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a major complication of orthopedic surgery and can lead to complications including pulmonary embolism, stroke, or even death. This narrative review aims to summarize current approaches to VTE prophylaxis for patients undergoing orthopedic surgery while also considering current trends in research surrounding potential updates to clinical recommendations and establishing a clear case for the role of patient-centered therapeutic approaches when looking to manage orthopedic postoperative VTE and associated complications. A narrative review was performed based on existing literature published on the topic of VTE prophylaxis in orthopedic surgery between the dates 1.1.2012 and 12.31.2023. Articles were searched for using a com- bination of four key terms combined with Boolean operators and were searched for on three major databases – Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect. Findings were combined with and compared to recommendations from major relevant professional organizations. A wide variety of guidelines for both chemoprophylaxis and mechanical prophylaxis were considered, with findings of particular interest being support for industry-standard low-molecular-weight heparin (LMWH) and direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) chemoprophylaxis, along with increased interest in aspirin. The evidence also supports mechanical prophylaxis in conjunction with chemoprophylaxis. Given that few validated VTE risk prediction score calculators exist, it is the recommendation of the authors to enhance risk stratification and personalized medicine by developing an orthopedic-specific risk assessment model to assist in decision-making, risk factor identification, and overall provision of comprehensive, personalized care designed to optimize quality of life and maximize management of orthopedic postoperative thromboembolic complications.
Analysis of family roles in infant and child feeding based on sociocultural factors and family functions
Authors: Munjidah Annif , Masita Elly Dwi , Novianti Hinda , Dewi Uke Maharani , Majid Norhaini , Hashim Noraini
Published: December 2024

The issue of complementary feeding in developing countries is often marked by poor food quality and quantity, leading to growth failure in children during this critical period. This problem is largely due to insufficient family involvement in managing infant and child feeding. This study examines the effects of sociocultural factors and family functions on family roles in feeding practices. The objective was to analyze how sociocultural factors and family functions influence infant and child feeding roles. This study used an observational analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. The population consisted of families with children under two years old in Surabaya, Sidoarjo, and Gresik, Indonesia, with data collection taking place from March to June 2024. From a population of 250, a sample of 120 participants was selected using a purposive sampling technique. Questionnaires that had been validated for reliability and accuracy were used to measure sociocultural variables, family functions, and family roles. Data analysis was performed using multiple linear regression tests. The findings revealed a significant effect of culture on family roles (P=0.026) and a significant effect of family functions on family roles (P=0.025). Additionally, there was a significant combined effect of culture and family functions on family roles (P=0.000). These results indicate that sociocultural factors and family functions positively influence family roles in feeding practices. In essence, stronger cultural values and well-functioning family dynamics contribute to a more effective family role in feeding infants and children. This research highlights the importance of collaborative efforts to strengthen family values and foster positive family functions, which are essential for supporting optimal feeding practices and child growth.
Impact of frailty on all-cause mortality in older neurosurgical patients with prolonged hospitalization: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Uzoukwu Cynthia , Owodunni Oluwafemi P. , Peter-Okaka Uchenna , Courville Evan N. , Conti Joseph T. , Gagliardi Thomas A. , Schmidt Meic H. , Bowers Christian A.
Published: December 2024

Hospital performance is increasingly measured by length of stay, which accounts for 90% of inter-patient cost variations. We examined the impact of frailty on all-cause mortality in neurosurgical patients with length of stay > 30 days and analyzed the discrimination and independent association of the risk analysis index, 5-factor modified frailty index, and advanced patient age for predicting all-cause mortality. The older patients who underwent neurosurgical procedures between 2012 and 2020 in the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program, with length of stay > 30 days were included in this retrospective observational study. Receiver operating characteristic curves were employed to compare the discrimination and multivariable analyses for associations of the risk analysis index, 5-factor modified frailty index advanced patient age and all-cause mortality. Secondary analyses were performed for spine and cranial procedures. Overall, 3474 patients were included, patients had a median age of 60 years (IQR: 49–70), were male (58.6%), white (47.9%), and underwent spine (46.4%) and cranial (51.9%) procedures. Major complications (33.9%), and median length of stay 38 days (IQR: 33–48) were observed. Risk analysis index demonstrated superior discrimination (C-statistic 0.72, 95% confidence interval 0.69–0.74) than 5-factor modified frailty index (C-statistic 0.57, 95% confidence interval 0.54–0.60) and advanced patient age (C-statistic 0.59, 95% confidence interval 0.55–0.62). Risk analysis index also demonstrated a dose-dependent relationship and larger effects in multivariable analysis (P < 0.001). Similar trends were observed for spine and cranial procedures in both Receiver operating characteristic and multivariable analysis. Taken together, frailty increased all-cause mortality dose-dependently, and risk analysis index exhibited a higher discrimination threshold and larger effect estimates than the 5-factor modified frailty index and advanced patient age. This study reflects the importance of preoperative assessment of frailty in the management of older neurosurgical patients and supports the use of risk analysis index in preoperative assessment to improve clinical outcomes of older patients. By identifying and assessing frailty, healthcare professionals can better personalize treatment plans for older patients to address age-related changes and challenges.
The impact of aging on outcomes in acute respiratory distress syndrome: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Huang Alexander A. , Huang Samuel Y.
Published: December 2024

Advanced age significantly influences outcomes in acute respiratory distress syndrome, with implications for intensive care unit-free days, ventilator-free days, and mortality. Understanding these relationships is essential for optimizing care in elderly populations. This retrospective multicenter cohort study included 1992 patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome from the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome Network trials, specifically the ALTA (Albuterol for the Treatment of Acute Lung Injury), EDEN (Early vs. Delayed Enteral Nutrition), Omega (Omega-3 Fatty Acid, Gamma-Linolenic Acid, and Anti-Oxidant Supplementation), and SAILS (Statins for Acutely Injured Lungs from Sepsis) studies, categorized into four age groups: < 40 years (n = 450, 22.6%), 40–60 years (n = 915, 45.9%), 60–80 years (n = 536, 26.9%), and > 80 years (n = 91, 4.6%). Key demographic characteristics, including gender, race, and ethnicity, were analyzed. Regression models adjusted for driving pressure and PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio examined associations between age and intensive care unit-free days, ventilator-free days, and mortality at 60 and 90 days. The results showed that older age was correlated with significantly fewer intensive care unit-free days and ventilator-free days and higher mortality. Patients > 80 years experienced 8.47 fewer intensive care unit-free days (95% CI: –11.24 to –5.69) and 9.26 fewer ventilator-free days (95% CI: –12.22 to –6.31) compared to those < 40 years. Mortality increased with age; 60-day mortality odds ratios were 1.44 (95% CI: 1.02–1.88) for 60–80 years and 2.32 (95% CI: 1.66–3.00) for > 80 years. Results persisted at 90 days. Subgroup analysis revealed demographic disparities: non-Hispanic White patients comprised 77.3%, Black patients 15.4%, and Hispanic ethnicity 11.6%. Men accounted for 50.9% of the cohort. The findings suggest that aging significantly worsens acute respiratory distress syndrome outcomes, with reductions in intensive care unit-free days, ventilator-free days, and survival. Older patients warrant targeted management strategies, emphasizing ventilatory optimization, particularly driving pressure and oxygenation indices, to improve outcomes. These findings underscore the need for personalized approaches to acute respiratory distress syndrome management in elderly populations.
Pemphigus vulgaris and lichen planus pigmentosus in an HIV-positive patient
Authors: Muna Bushra , Shanmugam Srikanth
Published: December 2024

Pemphigus vulgaris is a rare autoimmune blistering disorder which can occur with other disorder with autoimmune etiology like lichen planus pigmentosus. The concurrence of pemphigus vulgaris and HIV infection has been rarely reported in literature. Here we report a 31 year old patient who came with oral and skin erosions suggestive of pemphigus vulgaris and later developed HIV infection with lichen planus pigmentosus.
Behcet syndrome: A rare cause of recurrent genital ulceration
Authors: Narang Sanya Kamal , Shah Hiral A.
Published: December 2024

Behcet syndrome (BS) is a chronic relapsing multisystem vasculitis with skin findings with an important contribution of genetics. Here, we present a case of a 16-year-old male with a complaint of recurrent genital, and oral ulceration with skin lesions and a history of recurrent thrombophlebitis at the sites of venepuncture. There were no systemic manifestations. Pathergy test and HLA-B51 were negative. The diagnosis was confirmed based on the International Criteria for Behcet disease (ICBD) for BS. Tapering doses of systemic corticosteroid and colchicine showed promising response and regression of lesions.
Thyroid Mutations and Implications for Clinical Treatment
Authors: Zhang Emily S. , Scharpf Joseph
Published: December 2024

This article provides an overview of the evolving paradigm in the management of aggressive thyroid cancer. While differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) generally has a favorable prognosis, subsets such as radioactive iodine-refractory DTC, medullary thyroid cancer, and anaplastic thyroid cancer present significant challenges with high mortality rates. The identification of aggressive diseases through molecular testing has revolutionized risk stratification and treatment options, allowing for targeted therapies that match-specific genetic alterations. DTCs can have BRAF-like or RAS-like pathways of driver mutations with strong genotype–phenotype correlations, which are targetable through multikinase and tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Case studies illustrate how molecular profiling can guide clinical decisions and enhance treatment outcomes. Ultimately, the incorporation of genetic insights into clinical practice is essential for improving management strategies, minimizing overtreatment, and optimizing patient care in advanced thyroid cancer.
Emerging ethical concerns: Unfair redecision and unfair retraction in predatory journals
Authors: Mungmunpuntipantip Rujittika , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: December 2024

The ethical issues surrounding academic publishing are covered in this manuscript, with a particular emphasis on predatory journals’ unethical retraction and redecision policies. It is crucial to provide examples of dubious editorial choices and possible conflicts of interest. Serious questions concerning the integrity and credibility of the participating journals are raised by the lack of openness, the way conflicts of interest are handled, and the possibility of bias in the retraction decisions. To keep the trust of the scientific community, fairness, responsibility, and ethical behavior must be given top priority in academic publishing.
Exploring the frontiers of neurostimulation: The role of transcranial direct current stimulation in modern neuroscience
Authors: Saran Brijesh
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation technique that has gained significant interest in both clinical and research settings. It involves applying a low, constant electrical current to the scalp to modulate neuronal activity. tDCS is valued for its cost-effectiveness, portability, and simplicity compared to other brain stimulation methods such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). This article explores the historical context, mechanisms, and clinical applications of tDCS, highlighting its potential in treating neurological and psychiatric disorders and enhancing cognitive functions.

Objectives:

The noninvasive brain stimulation method known as tDCS has drawn a lot of attention in both clinical and scientific contexts. To alter neuronal activity, a low, steady electrical current is applied to the scalp. When compared to other brain stimulation techniques such as TMS, tDCS is prized for its affordability, mobility, and ease of use. The historical background, workings, and clinical uses of tDCS are examined in this article, with an emphasis on how it may be used to cure mental and neurological conditions as well as improve cognitive abilities.

Methods:

tDCS, a noninvasive brain stimulation technique, has garnered significant interest in both clinical and scientific settings. A low, constant electrical current is given to the scalp to change neural activity. tDCS is valued for its cost, portability, and simplicity of usage in contrast to other brain stimulation methods such as TMS. This article explores the history, mechanism, and clinical applications of tDCS, focusing on its potential for treating neurological and mental disorders and enhancing cognitive function.

Results:

Participants’ depression levels significantly decreased, according to the study. By the end of the intervention, over 50% of the participants had responded, and at the 1-month follow-up, this percentage had risen to almost 77%. Only minor, self-limiting adverse effects, such as tingling and soreness at the stimulation site, were experienced during the well-tolerated treatment. These results show that tDCS is effective in treating depression and is in line with international research.

Conclusion:

The tDCS significantly reduces depression symptoms and is a well-tolerated and successful supplementary treatment for treatment resistant depression. The study encourages more research into the therapeutic uses of tDCS, especially for people who do not react to conventional antidepressant drugs. Notwithstanding the encouraging outcomes, the study admits its shortcomings, including its limited sample size and lack of a control group. To maximize the use of TDCS in clinical practice, future studies should concentrate on maintenance procedures, long-term effects, and customized treatment strategies.
Analysis of blood donor deferral pattern in a tertiary care hospital in Northern India
Authors: Chaurasiya Priyanka , Tyagi Mayurika Subodh Kumar , Singh Swati , Kumar Sachin
Published: December 2024

Introduction:

The blood donor deferral patterns refer to the various reasons or criteria that may result in a person being temporarily or permanently deferred from donating blood. These deferral patterns are put in place to ensure the safety of both the donor and the recipient of the blood.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to study aims to analyze the various causes responsible for blood donor deferral and their rates in a tertiary care hospital in northern India.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis of the blood donor deferral data of a tertiary care hospital attached to a medical college during the period of January 2019 to June 2023 (4 year and 6 months) was conducted. Data were extracted from the donor register and analyzed.

Results:

A total of 5051 donors presented to our blood bank during this period out of which 306 (6.05%) were deferred. The percentage of total registration deferrals was higher in males (62.7%) than in females (37.3%). Donor deferral due to temporary reasons, i.e., (84.31%) was much higher than for permanent reasons, i.e., (15.7%) according to the data obtained. Anemia (34.1%) is the most common cause of temporary reasons in both males and females while in permanent deferrals, the most common reason for female deferral was chronic hypertension (14.6%) and in males, the most common reason for deferral was diabetes on insulin (12.5%).

Conclusion:

The pattern of donor deferral helps to identify specific risk factors or behaviors that may pose a threat to the safety of donated blood. By understanding these patterns, blood banks can focus on targeted interventions to minimize potential risks and ensure the safety of the blood supply.
Birth of a discipline?
Authors: Baer Brian James
Published: December 2024

This article proposes four characteristics that define a field of study as an academic discipline and then applies them to early Soviet efforts regarding the study of translation, referred to as perevodovedenie. The article focuses on the scholarly activity of two Soviet cultural institutions of the 1920s, the State Academy for Artistic Sciences, in Moscow, and the State Institute for the History of the Arts, in Petrograd, then Leningrad. Both institutes created subcommittees on translation, which hosted lectures as well as other scholarly activities, such as the creation of a Translation Studies bibliography. Key figures in the promotion of perevodovedenie at this time are also discussed. The article challenges the dominant narrative of the field, as consolidated in the many English-language handbooks and encyclopedias, that situates the emergence of Translation Studies in the post-World War II West and that construes writings from before the war as non-scholarly.
The legal status of legal translators within the community of Portuguese speaking countries
Authors: Coelho Ariadna
Published: December 2024

The Community of Portuguese Speaking Countries (CPLP) encompasses nine countries across Asia, Africa, Europe and South America, with their own set of rules governing legal translators and interpreters. To study the legal status of those professionals within the CPLP, we analyze both international recommendations, and national legislation from each CPLP member state, and deontological and ethical codes from associations of translators. Our focus is to understand the rights, duties, and obligations of legal translators as defined by these instruments. The findings reveal that not all these nine countries follow international recommendations, nor do all have a regulated professional status. It is thus recommended in the conclusion that common efforts should be pursued to improve the legal status of this profession.
The intricacy of religious indoctrination and girl-child marriages in the Johanne Marange Apostolic Church: the case of Memory Machaya in Zimbabwe
Authors: Hlonie Mafa Itai
Published: December 2024

Traditionally, religion was considered a haven where the heavy-hearted and broken would find solace and hope from unfortunate events such as violence, poverty and death. In recent years, literature has documented various cases where spiritual language has been used to normalize and persuade congregants into sexual relations that constitutionally translate to one form ofsexual abuse or the other. This study employs a document review methodology augmented by key informants to interrogate how religious indoctrination has contributed to the sustenance of child marriages in Zimbabwe. Using the 2021 Memory Machaya’s “14-year-old dies giving birth in a shrine” case, the study unearthed the abuse of spiritual authority by clergymen to manipulate congregants into child marriages. Further, supposed prophecies were used tofacilitate clergy sexual abuse. Some indigenous Apostolic sects were protective of their doctrine. While the government was reluctant to deal with Johanne Marange church, victims’ guardians also played a leading role in facilitating child marriages, making it difficult to seek justice for the victims. From a human rights perspective, the paper argues for regulation of religious sects to ensure compliance with the dictates of the constitution. Since laws are reactive, the author also advocates for robust sexual and reproductive health rights education to ensure an attitudinal change which desists from viewing women and the girl child simply through sexual and reproductive lenses. This aligns with the tenets of developmental social work, a profession credited as the legal vanguard for all children in Zimbabwe.
Assessing perceived benefits of sustainable land management practices among smallholder crop farmers in Southeast, Nigeria
Authors: Chukwuma Odii, Okereke , Victor Amoge Chukwu , Emmanuel Ejiofor Omeje
Published: December 2024

Sustainable land management (SLM) has been identified as a veritable tool in ensuring a sustainable global food production system. This study assessed the benefits of sustainable land management practices based on the perceptions of smallholder crop farmers in Southeast Nigeria. The sample for the study comprised 360 respondents selected using a combination of purposive and random sampling from a sampling frame of Fadama III project Fadama User Groups FUGs involved in crop production. Primary data obtained from field survey using questionnaire and interview schedule were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics. General effects of SLM were found to include reduction in soil erosion (99%), improvementin soil fertility (99%), increased yield and income (96%) and improvement in climate change adaptation (79%). Mean Benefit Indexes (MBI) of major specific SLM practices were 0.97, 0.89, 0.85, 0.88, 0.90 and 0.82 for mulching, improved fallow, zero tillage, zero burning and agro-forestry respectively which all tested highly significant. Constraint to the utilization of SLM practices by the farmers included institutional/environmental, socio-economic and technical factors. It was recommended that policies aimed at enhancing the application of SLM practices should address the identified constraints.
Raising awareness on antimicrobial resistance: a case study of top-down and bottom-up engagements with livestock farmers’ in Dormaa districts, Ghana
Authors: Eric Koka , Audrey Gadzekpo
Published: December 2024

Ensuring the welfare, health, and overall state of animals produced for food is both a moral duty and an essential aspect of ensuring the safety of food products. The utilisation of antibiotics for the purpose of preserving animal health has been subject to examination most recently as a result of the increase in antibiotic resistance on a global scale. This is a major problem for animal and human health on a worldwide scale since it has increased illness outbreaks and the prevalence of germs that are resistant to antibiotics. The possibility of the transmission of germs impervious to antimicrobials from animals to the environment and food chain is a real concern. One approach to tackle this issue has involved implementing top-downpublic education campaigns with the goal of educating livestock farmers about antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The primary aim of this study was to augment grasp of the unrestricted engagement deeds that most effectively capture information regarding the variables that drive rural livestock farmers to use antimicrobials and their degree ofcognizance regarding antimicrobial resistance. We utilised a case study methodology to examine four different community engagement initiatives (focus group discussions, key informant interviews, public engagement workshops, and media discussion shows) that involved livestock farmers and animal health officials in the Dormaa districts of Ghana. The focus of these activities was on the topics of antimicrobial use and antimicrobial resistance. The study found that empowering farmers through dialogical public interactions, using both top-down and bottom-up techniques, enables them to effectively share knowledge aboutantimicrobial usage and resistance. This empowerment also allows farmers to engage in peer learning through their networks and the media. According to the findings of this study, it is advisable for livestock producers and animal health professionals to collaborate regularly in order to raise awareness through the media about the consequences of using and developing resistance to antimicrobials in livestock production, as well as its impact on humans and the environment.
Socio-economic status of people after covid-19: evidence from a bourgeoning municipality.
Authors: Kuranchie Alfred
Published: December 2024

The outbreak of Covid-19 came as a bolt from the bloom and sparked fears in everyone. Various interventions and programmes were implemented to exterminate it. This study, therefore, sought to garner empirical-based evidence on how people of different social brackets have recovered from the socio-economic effects of the pandemic. The study relied on cross-sectional survey design to gather data from a pool of respondents from a bourgeoning municipality in Ghana. Self-administered questionnaire was used to gather the data after it had been validated. Both descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed to analysis the data. The study revealed that the respondents have not completely come out of the ravages of the pandemic. A disproportionate chunk of them are seen struggling to be on their feet and this situation calls for attention and assistance. The study, however, established gender difference in the socio-economic status of the respondents after the pandemic; more males are doing better than females. The study also revealed that the respondents in the middle and low-income brackets do not seem to be close to normalcy as those in the high-income group. Policy and practical implications of the study have been proffered.
The contribution of digital technology in exacerbating gender based violence against female students in higher learning institutions in Tanzania.
Authors: M. Kavishe Angela
Published: December 2024

Studies indicate that gender-based violence has been practised and sometimes normalised at higher learning institution campuses in Tanzania. Despite various efforts to curb the GBV, at Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy, studies indicate that violent incidences directed at female students persist, and cases are increasing. Inspired by the objectification school of thought, the study aimed to  collect information from female students’ awareness of offline and online gender-based violence as well as their knowledge of the contribution of digital technology to the aggravation of cyber harassment. The study was undertaken at Mwalimu Nyerere Memorial Academy. It involved 343 female students who filled in the online survey questionnaire. Thirty-four (34) of those who were harassed online were interviewed and participated in an FGD while 10 Key informants were interviewed. The results indicate that MNMA female students are aware of gender-based violence but are shallowly knowledgeable on the root causes of online gender-based violence. The study has found that digital technology supports aggravation by concealing the perpetrator; increasing accessibility of victims; multiplying violent incidences; extending aggression in space and time and providing a platform for female students’ self-objectification. It is concluded that still the struggle against gender inequality persists and that digitisation complicates the phenomenon. The study recommends that higher learning institutions should continue their efforts to challenge the prevailing gender inequality gaps and increase awareness to enable students of both sexes.
Agents and challenges associated with the celebration of parallel marriage ceremonies in Winneba township in the Efutu municipality of Ghana
Authors: Odoom Vincent , Dankwa Shirley , Bordoh Anthony , Eshun Isaac
Published: December 2024

This study explores the various agents that influence the performance of parallel marriage ceremonies and their associated challenges in Winneba Township in the Efutu Municipality of Ghana. The interpretivist paradigm with a qualitative approach was employed for the study. The research design used for the study was a case study. The targeted population for the study were married people who performed parallel marriage ceremonies, adults who have reached their marital age but are not married, parents, opinion leaders (pastors) and marriage counsellors. In all, fifteen individuals were involved in the study. This consists of five (5) married individuals who performed parallel marriage ceremonies, four (4) unmarried individuals who have reached their marital age but are not married, two (2) opinion leaders, two (2) parents and two (2) marriage counsellors. The purposive sampling technique was used to select all the participants. The primary data collection instrument was a semi-structured interview guide. It was revealed that the challenges associated with the parallel marriage ceremonies were linked to three key agents. The agents are the church, the family, and thesociety. It was also revealed that almost all the participants alluded to the huge financial burden on couples who perform parallel marriage ceremonies. It is therefore recommended that the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE) collaborate with the National Christian Council to sensitise the church, the family and the general society through the media to understand the dangers they pose to the would-be couples when they indirectly force them to perform parallel ceremonies.
Suitability location of solid waste collection points for Chanchaga Local Government Area, Niger State
Authors: Baba M. , Musa A.W. , Olaniyi A.M. , Bala M.K. , Tanko F.
Published: December 2024

Population growth and uncontrolled urbanization has made solid waste management an imperative issue for environmental management and sustainability. The study conducted site suitability analysis for solid waste disposal in each wards of Chanchaga Local Government Area (LGA) of Niger State with a view to recommending most suitable sites for solid waste collection in the study area. The data used for the study was Landsat 8 OLI of 30m spatial resolution, soil map was obtained from Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Digital Terrain Model (DTM), Administrative map and the geo-location of the existing solid waste collection points in Chanchaga LGA. The derived factors were reclassified and spatially analysed based on the minimum standard setup by Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 2006 for high, moderate and least suitable waste collection site. The outcome depicted that about 90% of the solid waste collection site does not meet up with the standard setup by EPA, 2006. Furthermore, the study revealed that most residential buildings were located in a confine radius of less than 50m to most of these collection sites, which is inappropriate and unacceptable. Indiscriminate dumping of waste within residential areas, water body, road network and drainage systems should be discouraged. Provision of waste cans for household and frequent evacuation by the relevant authorities should be encouraged. Finally, based on the EPA 2006 minimum standard, suitable solid waste collection sites were determined and recommended for use in the study area.
Assessing green innovation competencies for sustainable construction practices in Nigeria: A Delphi survey
Authors: Soji S.M. , Usman N.D. , Abdullahi U. , Adaji A.A.
Published: December 2024

This study employed a Delphi survey to evaluate the importance of various green innovation competency components identified from the literature. The Delphi method was utilized for its effectiveness in achieving consensus among experts on complex issues. The participants included academics and registered professionals in practice such as Architects, Builders, Engineers, Estate Surveyors, Quantity Surveyors, and Town Planners, with at least 10 years of experience sustainability. A total of 30 experts were purposively selected, with 23 actively participating in both rounds of the survey. Consensus in this study is defined as a substantial majority agreement (70% or more) among the Delphi panel members. The mean score of ≥ 7 on a 10-point scale, a coefficient of variation (CV) ≤ 0.3, and an interquartile range (IQR) ≤ 1.5 were used as statistical measures, analysed with SPSS Version 20. Drawing from existing literature, 38 competencies were identified, encompassing social, environmental, economic, and technical dimensions important for decision-making in green projects. These competencies enhance adaptability, collaboration, and compliance with sustainable development goals. Of the identified components, 26 were rated highly by the experts. The findings showed strong intra-rater reliability (ICC of 0.941) and significant agreement among raters, supporting the validity of the results. The findings show the need for increased focus on these competencies in both academic and professional settings, because of their role in promoting adaptability, collaboration, and alignment with sustainable development goals. The study concludes that these competencies can be positioned as benchmarks for trainings and professional developments within the construction industry.
Statistical analysis of NASA POWER meteorological data for the assessment of climate variability in Adamawa State
Authors: Abubakar I.M. , Idi B.Y.
Published: December 2024

This study addresses the critical need for reliable, long-term meteorological data to assess the impact of global warming on food security and human well-being. The research demonstrates the utility of satellite-based spatial databases, particularly NASA's POWER Data Viewer, in evaluating regional climate trends. We analysed six climatic parameters from 1992 to 2022 across three climatic sub-regions of Adamawa state, Nigeria, using data from fixed stations. Linear regression analysis of the thirty-year trends revealed increases in mean, maximum, and minimum temperatures, along with decreases in precipitation and relative humidity, suggesting regional warming. ANOVA tests validated the linear models for mean temperature in Ganye and Yola, maximum temperature and relative humidity in Ganye, and the all-sky insolation clearness index across all regions. The findings underscore the significance of satellite data in climate assessment and call for further studies to identify the most accurate predictive models for parameters where the linear hypothesis was rejected.
Analysis of the risk factors to cholera outbreaks in parts of Minna, Niger State
Authors: Mamman A.A. , Kuti I.A. , Yisa M.K. , Idris I.M.
Published: December 2024

Most people in Minna, Niger State rely on untreated water from wells for their daily supply and intake while some have no or limited access to water and adequate sanitation facilities. These residents live under the threat of cholera. Approximately one hundred and ninety-nine cases of cholera were recorded during epidemic outbreak in Minna between 2010 and 2021. Hence, the thrust of this study is to analyse the risk factors to Cholera Outbreak in parts of Minna. Purposive sampling was used to select the neighbourhoods in Minna. This study also designed a well-structured questionnaire to collect information on the risk factor causing Cholera outbreak in Minna. Field reconnaissance survey was used to identify the risk causing cholera in the study area. The risks were ranked on the field from severity 1 to 5. The risk factor causing cholera epidemic was determined by multiplying risk frequency with its severity level. Monthly cholera cases were also collected from General Hospital Minna between 2010 and 2021 and Pearson correlation coefficient was used to determine the relationship between cholera epidemic and average rainfall events from 2010 to 2021. The study revealed that the risk factors causing cholera epidemic were source of drinking water with mean risk value of 3.13, followed by mode of water treatment (3.04), refuse disposal /defecation (2.99) and source of food/fruits (2.95); implying that untreated well (open) water is the major cause of cholera epidemic in Minna. The study revealed that positive correlation (0.76) existed between cholera cases and monthly rainfall; implying that the spread of cholera is more during the rainy season and is high. The untreated well (open) water is the major factor causing cholera epidemic across in Minna and its severity is high. The study recommend that the well water should be treated with water guard at source before drinking especially during rainy season.
Discovering the benefits of soybean: an informative half-day nutrition experience among low income women in Vaal region of South Africa
Authors: Sosa-Holwerda A , Oldewage-Theron W
Published: December 2024

In developing countries, women generate about 80% of food production and are in charge of cooking meals for their family. Despite their productivity and contribution in food production, they make up about 70% of the world’s impoverished population. In sub-Saharan Africa, women are more likely to face the triple burden of malnutrition when compared to males, and in South Africa, 42% of households were led by women in 2022. Soy is known for having the most complete nutritional characteristics among legumes capable of addressing the nutritional effects of malnutrition. Theory-based nutrition education is of extreme importance in areas where resources and healthcare personnel are scarce, as it empowers and provides people with knowledge, abilities, and motivation to adopt a healthier diet. When combined with a varied diet, soy consumption has advantages in addressing the adverse effects of malnutrition. Thus, the objective of this study was to inform women in the Vaal region of South Africa about the health benefits of soy and how to prepare soy-based foods. To this end, a registered dietitian implemented a nutrition education intervention with selected participants, and a validated questionnaire was used before and after the intervention to collect participants’ data. Pretest and posttest data were analysed along with sociodemographic information. Over 50% of the women were unemployed, and when asked about their frequency of soy consumption, more than 65% reported never eating soy. Most of the participants (95%) met the minimum dietary diversity score. There was no statistically significant change in the overall perception, knowledge, or self-efficacy total scores after the intervention. However, statistically significant (p = < 0.001) correlations were found between pre total knowledge score and the dietary diversity score, pre knowledge and knowledge about foods containing soy, and knowledge and use of soy for human consumption (ρ = .441, ρ =.614, and ρ = 0.615, respectively). The only statistical significance (p < 0.001) when knowledge questions were analysed separately was found for the change score related to knowledge of the health benefits of soy. Surprisingly, despite these correlations, when asked if they use soy-based foods in their house, 63.3% of participants said they do not use them. This may be explained by the fact that 41.7% reported feeling neutral about (neither disliking or liking) or disliking (21.7%) the taste of soy.
Dietary supplementation with zinc oxide nanoparticles improves growth performance and gut microbiota of broiler chickens reared in the tropics
Authors: Opoola E. , Makinde O.J. , Olobatoke R.Y. , Atte P.O. , Olaniyan O.
Published: December 2024

This study evaluated the effect of zinc oxide (ZnO) on growth performance, serum biochemistry, and gut microbial counts of broiler chickens reared in a tropical environment. A total of 120 one-day-old broiler chicks were assigned using a completely randomized design to four equal groups, with three replicates, containing 10 chicks per replicate. The control group was fed basal diet without ZnO, while the second, third and the fourth groups were fed diets supplemented with 0.60, 90.00, and 120.00 mg of zinc oxide/kg diet, respectively. The diets were formulated to be isocaloric and isonitrogenous, i.e., CP = 23.21%, ME = 2850 kcal/kg for the starter, and CP = 20%, ME = 3009 kcal/kg for the finisher phase. In the starter and finisher phases, dietary treatments had substantial effects on total feed intake, daily feed intake, daily body weight gain, and feed conversion ratio. Broilers fed diets supplemented with 90 mg or 120 mg ZnO/kg had a better weight gain and feed conversion ratio than the control treatment in both phases. Dietary ZnO had no effect on total protein (TP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and alkaline phosphate (ALP) in the blood. Diets with low or no dietary ZnO showed an increase in Escherichia coli and Lactobacillus spp. in the ileum. Chickens fed high doses of dietary ZnO had relatively low cecal total bacterial counts and Lactobacillus bacterial counts. Supplementing broiler diets with ZnO improved growth performance and intestinal bacterial count.
Chia flour as a substitute for pork fat in Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fishburgers
Authors: Rampe M.C.C. , Henry F.C. , Oliveira R.F. , Santos Junior A.C. , Filho A.M.M. , Dardengo M.C.J.D. , Oliveira D.B.
Published: December 2024

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the inclusion of chia flour (Salvia hispanica L.) as a substitute for pork fat in formulations of fishburgers made with Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Five formulations, one control (without the inclusion of the flour) and four with increasing levels of substitution (12.50, 25.00, 37.50, and 50.00 %), were investigated. The inclusion of chia flour provided an improvement in the nutritional profile of fishburgers, with increases observed in the percentages of protein, fibre, and ash, in addition to a reduction in the lipid content and caloric value. In addition to modifying the texture profile, the substitution of dirty fat interfered with the colour of the studied samples, promoting a reduction in luminosity (L*) with increased flour inclusion. There was an improvement in the yield of formulations with higher percentages of chia flour. The lowest reduction in diameter and thickness of the burgers after cooking was observed with more flour. The partial substitution of swine fat with chia flour is a viable alternative to obtain healthier tilapia fishburgers with higher yield.
Degradable protein requirements of beef cattle consuming winter forage hay
Authors: Bareki M.A. , Van der Merwe H.J. , De Brouwer C.H.M.
Published: December 2024

A trial was conducted to determine the total rumen degradable protein intake (RDPI) required to maximise the digestible organic matter intake (DOMI) of beef cows consuming low quality grass hay from the northern variation of Cymbopogon–Themeda pasture type. Thirty-five pregnant (last trimester) Afrikaner × Simmentaler crossbred cows (517.08 ± 53.06 kg) were stratified according to fasted body weight and allocated to five treatments. A rumen degradable protein (RDP) source, calcium caseinate (90% crude protein on dry matter basis and 100% rumen degradable) was used and mixed with a molasses based concentrate. Treatments provided the following supplemental RDP levels/cow/day from casein: (1) control, 0 g, (2) 180 g, (3) 360 g, (4) 540 g, and (5) 720 g. The cows had ad libitum access to low quality grass hay (2.26% CP; 73.94% neutral detergent fibre, NDF). The trial period consisted of 14 d of adaptation, 21 d of the intake study, and 7 d of the digestibility study. No statistically significant influence of RDP on the apparent digestibility of DM, organic matter, or NDF was detected. The grass DM intake, DOMI, and metabolizable energy intake increased in a quadratic manner with increasing supplementary RDP. The single broken-line model predicted DOMI /kg metabolic weight (BW0.75) with higher accuracy than the quadratic regression procedure. According to this model, 4.03 g daily RDPI/kg BW0.75 or 8.07% RDP of digestible organic matter was required to maximise DOMI of pregnant beef cows consuming winter grassveld hay.
Vaccination strategies to curb environmental spread of Porcine Circovirus 2
Authors: Silva D.F. , Silva V.H. , Barros L.M. , Oliveira T.S. , Macedo C.I.S. , Mesquita R.G. , Silvestrini A.R. , Silvestrini I.R. , Ferraz S. , Castro A.M.M.G.
Published: December 2024

Integrated farming is an established agricultural practice aimed at increasing productivity per unit area by utilizing animal manure. However, there has been a growing concern regarding swine manure's potential as a disseminator of pathogens in the environment. Among these pathogens is Porcine Circovirus 2 (PCV2), which can persist in the environment for extended periods. The objective of this study is to demonstrate the impact of introducing two PCV2 vaccination protocols on PCV2 load in faecal samples and the surrounding environment. To achieve this, fifty-seven pigs aged 21 d were divided into three groups (A, B, and Control group) and received intramuscular injections of two different PCV2 vaccines as per the manufacturer's instructions. Faecal and environmental samples were collected using polyester swabs and tested for PCV2 using SYBR green quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). The introduction of vaccination in a PCV2-positive herd led to a reduction in viral load in both faecal samples and the surrounding environment.