bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extent of variability in fruit morphological characters of local mango germplasm
Authors: Singh Gurbir , Singh Dr. Sukhdev
Published: January 2021

A study was conducted on twenty five genotypes of seedling Mangoes to examine fruit morphological characters. Fruit shape of the evaluated germplasm varied enormously and fruits of obovoid, elliptic, round and oblong shapes were found. Fruit apex shape in the evaluated plants was round, acute and obtuse. Depth of fruit stalk cavity was either absent, shallow and of medium type, whereas, fruit neck prominence was absent to slightly prominent in the tested plants. Shape of fruit ventral shoulder was varied and found to be slopping abruptly, rising and then rounded and long curve type in the evaluated germplasm. Fruit beak varies from pointed to perceptible type and fruit sinus was absent to shallow type in the fruits from different plants. Fruit attractiveness varies from very good to excellent and fruit colour from greenish yellow to green colour of fruit skin at maturity was noted in fruits from selected trees. Peel colour of AA-15 was different amongst all the genotypes which were green with red blush. Pulp colour varied from light orange, yellow orange, orange yellow, yellow and light yellow, whereas, pulp texture was soft to intermediate in the evaluated germplasm. Key words: Mangifera indica; Genotype susceptibility; Punjab; India.
Vegetative characteristics of elite seedling mango germplasm in two districts of Punjab
Authors: Singh Gurbir , Singh Dr. Sukhdev
Published: January 2021

The present investigations were carried out in full grown mango trees under Amritsar and Gurdaspur conditions of the Punjab. The various vegetative characters were studied. The considerable differences were observed among the germplasm under study. The highest measure for plant height and canopy volume had been exhibited by the genotype AKS-1. Genotype AR-1 exhibited a wide range of tangible diversity in trunk circumference (410.00 cm). The highest tree spread was measured in genotype AKS-1 (15.50m). The petiole length of the evaluated genotypes ranged from 2.00 to 4.50 cm. Conclusively all the genotypes were differ in vegetative character.Key words: Mangifera indica L,vegetative morphology,genotype variability, Punjab.to
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and its Relation to Pre-pregnancy Body Mass Index
Authors: Thamban Veena , Venkatappa Kavana G
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Obesity mediates a systemic inflammatory response in our body which includes insulin resistance and glucose dysregulation. Increased Body Mass Index (BMI) associated with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) leads to a state of insulin resistance additive to insulin resistance of GDM. Aim: To assess the relationship between GDM and pre-pregnancy BMI. Materials and Methods: This case-control study enrolled 64 women with GDM and 64 without GDM, attending antenatal care clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital, after obtaining their informed consent. Obstetric history, pre-pregnancy BMI and Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) values were noted. Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Group in India (DIPSI) criterion was used for diagnosing GDM. The BMI was categorised according to World Health Organisation (WHO) criterion. Data obtained was statistically analysed. Results: Out of 44, 41 (93.2%) women with GDM had pre-pregnancy BMI ≥25 kg/m2 (overweight and obese) compared to 3 (6.8%) in controls (Χ2 value=50.01, p≤0.001). Mean±SD of pre-pregnancy BMI in women with GDM was significantly higher (26.38±2.74 kg/m2) compared to controls i.e., 22.26±1.54 kg/m2(unpaired t-test: p≤0.001). Conclusion: GDM was found to be significantly associated with pre-pregnancy BMI. Appropriate interventions and risk factor modifications are recommended to prevent GDM and its complications.
Estimation of Glycated Haemoglobin by Nephelometry, Ion Exchange Resin and High Performance Liquid Chromatography: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Prathima Mangalore Balakrishna , Reshma Shridhar , Sushith . , Shetty Prathiksha , Janice D'Sa , Kalal Bhuvanesh Sukhlal , Madan Gopal R
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus cases are continually rising all over the world. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) used as a diagnostic test to measure long-term average glycaemic control in diabetic patients. Aim: To assess the precision and reproducibility of the Ion Exchange Column Chromatography Resin (IECR) method and nephelometry in comparison to High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) with respect to the estimation of HbA1c. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional comparative study was conducted on 50 blood samples, collected from the diabetic subjects at the Department of Biochemistry and their HbA1c values were estimated by HPLC based BioRad D-10, nephelometry and IECR techniques. HPLC was used as a gold standard method, to evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of nephelometry and IECR techniques. Data were expressed as mean±standard deviation and intraclass Correlation Coefficient and Pearson correlation were calculated. Results: The mean age of the study subjects was 53.06±7.67 years. The mean plasma HbA1c levels were 8.16±2.9, 7.62±2.5 and 7.84±2.5 and mean estimated Average Glucose (eAG) was 187.00±84.4, 172.0±76.8, and 289.46±199.9 by HPLC, Nephelometry and IECR, respectively. Compared with HPLC, nephelometry had excellent correlation (r-value 0.925); p<0.001) and IECR (r-value 0.869; p<0.001). Conclusion: Nephelometry and IECR both had better performance and showed a greater concordance with gold standard HPLC. Therefore, nephelometry and IECR can be used as an alternative assay for HbA1c estimation.
Association of Nerve Conduction Velocity with Total Body Fat Mass and Body Mass Index in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Rahman Faique , Siddiqui Anwar Hasan , Singhal Sangeeta , Ashraf Hamid , Faraz Ahmad
Published: January 2021

Introduction: There is a close association between obesity and type 2 diabetes as well as its complications. Obesity related changes in nerve conduction assume paramount importance in diabetic patients where the nerve functions are already compromised by other metabolic derangements. Aim: To study any existing correlation of the Nerve Conduction Velocity (NCV) with the Total Body Fat Mass (TBFM) and Body Mass Index (BMI) and to identify which is a better predictor of NCV impairment in type 2 diabetics. Materials and Methods: A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted during April 2018-January 2019 in 90 patients with confirmed diagnosis of Diabetes type 2 of recent onset or not more than 8 years and age between 30 to 60 years. NCV was measured in both upper and lower limbs. Median, ulnar, and posterior tibial nerves were selected for motor nerve conduction study and median, Ulnar and sural nerves were selected for sensory nerve conduction study. Bioelectric Impedance Analysis (BIA) was used to find the TBFM. The correlation of TBFM and BMI with the NCV was assessed by using Pearson’s coefficient of linear correlation. Results: Both BMI and TBFM showed negative correlation with the motor and sensory NCV of both sides of the body. BMI had a significant negative correlation with conduction velocity of two sensory nerve viz., right median (r=-0.388) and left sural (r=-0.356) and two motor nerves viz., right median (r=-0.483) and right posterior tibial (r=-0.305) only. However, the TBFM showed a significant negative correlation with the motor conduction velocity of four motor viz., right median (r=-0.602), right posterior tibial (r=-0.455), left median (r=-0.483) and left posterior tibial (r=-0.288) and four sensory nerves viz., right median (r=-0.411), right sural (r=-0.435), left median (r=-0.461) and left sural (r=-0.408). Conclusion: TBFM as assessed by BIA analysis shows a stronger correlation with the NCV as compared to the BMI and should be used clinically along with electrophysiological studies for the risk factor stratification of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in type 2 diabetes patients.
Detection of Toxoplasma gondii by Loop-mediated Isothermal Amplification in Blood and Urine Samples from Women in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ahmedani Elsamoual Ibrahim , Elagib Atif A , Mohamed Khalil , Alghamdi Jawahir , Ali Akbar , Lai Meng Yee , Lau Yee Ling , AlMohammed Khalid Hassan
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Toxoplasmosis is the disease which is caused by the protozoan parasite Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii), which has the ability to infect all warm-blooded animals. Several molecular techniques for the diagnosis of Toxoplasma gondii includes normal and Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), and gene sequencing. Aim: To apply Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) for the diagnosis of T. gondii infections in urine and blood samples from female population in Saudi Arabia. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, genomic DNA was extracted from 22 blood and urine samples (11 each), two LAMP assays based on B1 and Surface Antigen 2 (SAG2) genes of T. gondii was performed. Conventional PCR was done for the LAMP product followed by sequencing to confirm the specificity of LAMP method. Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0 was used to summarise continuous and categorical variables. Results: From 22 samples, 17 samples were LAMP positive in both urine and blood samples, four were negative in blood and positive in urine samples, and one was positive in blood and negative in urine. Sequencing of PCR product confirm the specificity of the method used. Conclusion: LAMP detection of T. gondii DNA is an appropriate, sensitive and specific method for diagnosis of toxoplasmosis from urine and blood specimens in humans.
Impact of Hospital Acquired Infection and Antibiotic Resistance Awareness Campaign on Knowledge Attitude and Practices of Medical Undergraduates in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital, India
Authors: Rajni Ekadashi , Rathi Priyanka , Malik Manisha , Mittal Sonali , Mamoria Ved Prakash
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Healthcare professionals have an important role in tackling the growing menace of Hospital Acquired Infections (HAI) and Antibiotic Resistance (ABR). Regular trainings imparted early in career can result in better understanding of these crucial issues. Aim: To identify the baseline Knowledge Attitude and Practices (KAP) of 5th semester MBBS undergraduate students of a University Medical College in Rajasthan, India, and to determine the changes in these parameters after the implementation of a vigorous “HAI and ABR Awareness campaign”. Materials and Methods: This prospective interventional study involved 86, 5th semester MBBS undergraduate students. The study instrument was a preformed pretested 30 item self-administered questionnaire. The study intervention included a series of lectures, role plays, poster competition; and an audio-visual quiz. The performance of individual participants before and after the intervention was then statistically analysed with Microsoft Excel and software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Results: The pre-intervention overall KAP score of each student was found to be poor in 17.4%, average in 61.6%, and excellent in 20.9% in study participants. Post-intervention grades were found to be poor, average, and excellent in 1.1%, 8.14%, and 90.7% study participants, respectively. A statistically significant decrease in the percentage of students with poor grade and a significant increase in those with excellent grade were observed. Conclusion: There is a need for suitable amendments in current MBBS curriculum to include modules which comprehensively address the core issues of ABR, HAIs and Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS). This would help to bring out attitude and behavioural changes in students at the very grass-root level.
Bilateral Accessory Central Cusp on Permanent Mandibular Second Molars: An Unusual Occurrence
Authors: Gehlot Paras Mull , Haseen Jumana , Jayadevan Veena , Annapoorna BM
Published: January 2021

Anomaly like central cusp is accessory cusp which is similar to Dens Evaginatus (DE) in premolars. Such accessory occlusal/central cusps are rarely being reported in mandibular molars. The presence of these structures can be a cause of concern when they interfere with occlusion, get fractured or pulp is exposed. This report presents an unusual case of 21-year-old male patient with bilateral accessory cusp in permanent mandibular second molars, the left with Occlusal central cusp (7-cusp anatomy) and the right with a prominent expression of tuberculum sextum (5-cusp anatomy). The patient reported with sensitivity on lower left second molar. Radiograph did not reveal any pulpal extension in both the teeth. Buccal caries on left second molar was restored with composite resin and the accessory cusp was incrementally grinded. The patient reported on follow-up visit after 6 months and was asymptomatic. Early identification of supernumery occlusal central cusp and proper treatment can avoid pulpal complications.
Prothrombotic State and Cardiovascular Risk in Hyperuricaemic Individuals: Does Hyperglycaemia Play a Role? A Case-control Study
Authors: Bhardwaj Shilpa , Ahirwar Ashok , Mishra Bhawesh , Singla Gaurav , Jain Anju
Published: January 2021

Introduction: The role of Hyperuricaemia (HU) in pathogenesis of cardiovascular disorders is debated. A number of hypothetical mechanisms that link HU to increased cardiovascular risk are researched. Aim: To evaluate the hypercoagulable state and cardiovascular risk in diabetic hyperuricaemics, nondiabetic hyperuricaemics in comparison to healthy controls, and to analyse whether chronic hyperglycaemia has a causal role in HU associated cardiovascular risk. Materials and Methods: A case-control study was conducted in which 60 known hyperuricaemic cases and 30 healthy controls were included in the study. Cases were further divided into nondiabetic hyperuricaemic and diabetic-hyperuricaemic subgroups. Routine blood biochemistry including high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP), Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and lipid profile was performed to assess endothelial function and hypercoagulability. Data were expressed as Mean±SEM. Results: Levels of hs-CRP and PAI-1 were significantly higher in diabetic hyperuricaemics (p<0.001) and nondiabetic hyperuricaemics (p<0.001) compared to controls. The difference was not significant between the hyperuricaemic subgroups. Serum Uric Acid (UA) levels showed a significantly positive correlation with hs-CRP (r=0.554, p<0.001) and PAI-1 (r=0.525, p=0.003) levels among the cases. Association between UA and glucose was not significant in diabetic hyperuricaemics (r=0.270, p=0.15). Conclusion: HU is associated with endothelial dysfunction and prothrombotic state leading to increased cardiovascular risk. Hyperglycaemia does not have a direct causal role in HU associated cardiovascular risk.
Seroprevalence of Scrub Typhus among Pyrexia of Unknown Origin Patients: A Study from Tertiary Care Hospital in Eastern Odisha, India
Authors: Tiwari Shreekant , Nanda Monalisah
Published: January 2021

Introduction: Scrub typhus is a fatal rickettsial infection. It is caused by mite-borne bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi which is transmitted by the bite of mite larvae called chiggers. It usually presents with acute febrile illness. Clinicians usually do not consider it as differential diagnosis as it is still an unknown entity. Aim: To assess the seroprevalence of scrub typhus among the pyrexia of unknown cases in Eastern part of Odisha, India. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study involving 260 serum samples obtained from clinically suspected cases of scrub typhus. Detection of antibodies was done on the samples by Immunochromatography (ICT) and IgM ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay). Samples were also processed for dengue fever, malaria, typhoid and leptospirosis which are the other causes of febrile illness in this region and excluded from the study once they come positive. Among these febrile cases which were excluded from study, malaria was predominant (44%) followed by typhoid (34.4%), dengue (15%) and leptospirosis (6.45%). Descriptive statistical analysis was applied to evaluate the results. Results: Out of 260 clinical samples, 74 (28.46%) were positive by IgM ELISA. There was good correlation (98.6%) between ICT and IgM ELISA. Fever was the most common clinical symptom followed by abdominal pain. Pathognomonic feature such as eschar was seen in one patient only. Scrub typhus should be considered as one of the differential diagnosis of Pyrexia of Unknown Origin (PUO) cases, along with dengue fever, malaria typhoid and leptospirosis. Conclusion: IgM ELISA is simple, rapid and economical test and should be used as reference diagnostic test for the diagnosis of scrub typhus.
Late Opacification of PCIOL
Authors: Uzair Mohmad , Mehtani Amit , Varma Deepak , Bhalla Jatinder S.
Published: January 2021

A 63 year male presented with diminished vision in right eye from the past 6 months. The patient had undergone cataract surgery in both eyes. The right eye was operated in 5 years back and left eye was operated in 6 years back. The patient was asymptomatic for 4.5 years postoperative when he started to notice glare in his vision in the right eye. The glare gradually progressed to diminished vision in the right eye. On slit lamp biomicroscopy, a well centered foldable PCIOL was seen with multiple crystalline opacities. On examination at higher magnification, the opacities were found to be within and around the optic substance. Patient underwent IOL exchange with acrylic hydrophobic PCIOL. The Explanted IOL was found with very large calcified deposits on the surface of the lens, as well as smaller multiple calcified deposits within the subsurface of the lens, in both optic and loop components.
Ocular Manifestation As Earliest Presentation Of Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Mimicking Multiple Chalazia
Authors: Chaudhuri Pallabi Ray , Biswas Uttam , Ray Soumya , bose Koushik , Sarkar Avik Dey , Dey Asim Kumar
Published: January 2021

Primary orbital Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) is very rare. This 40 year old female patient presented with small multiple smooth swellings on upper and lower conjunctival fornix and in subsequent visits she develops swelling arising from both side lacrimal sac location. MRI brain and orbit suggested multiple oval shaped lesions noted at retro-bulbar, medial and lateral canthus of both eyes and periorbital area without any bony destruction. Biopsy confirmed it to be a case of primary non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. She was given 6 cycles of chemotherapy with CHOP. The patient is now asymptomatic 2 months after the last cycle of the chemotherapy.
Bronchodilator Nebulization – A Rare Presentation of Bilateral Acute Angle Closure Glaucoma
Authors: Syamala Divya Deepthi , Medikonda Malleswari
Published: January 2021

Bronchodilator nebulization is one of the most commonly administered treatment for an acute attack of reactive airway disease. Development of acute angle closure glaucoma following nebulization therapy is a rare occurrence. We report a case of acute angle closure of both eyes in a 54 year old gentleman shortly after receiving therapy with inhaled salbutamol and ipratropium. This patient presented to our tertiary care eye hospital and was immediately treated with medical management and laser iridotomy. This case report highlights this rare but possible side effect of inhaled bronchodilator therapy. Health care providers need to be aware of this uncommon adverse effect and appropriate preventive measures such as identifying at risk individuals, usage of protective eye-wear, etc should be practiced.
Torpedo Maculopathy with Satellite Lesion
Authors: Singh Sonia , Muralidhar N.S. , Murthy Hemanth
Published: January 2021

Torpedo maculopathy is a rare congenital abnormality of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). It is characterized by unilateral, solitary, well circumscribed, hypopigmented, horizontally oval ‘torpedo shaped chorioretinal lesion. It should be considered as differential diagnosis for macular hypopigmented lesions. Considered as solitary, there have been rare case reports of double torpedo and satellite torpedo lesions. Here we report a case of Torpedo maculopathy with satellite lesion with its clinical features and Optical Coherence Tomography(OCT) findings.
Participation of Farm Women in Dairy Management Practices in Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh in India
Authors: Krishna N. Leela , Anitha A. , Rao S. Jagadeeswara , Muralidhar M.
Published: January 2021

An investigation was conducted to study the participation of farm women in dairy management practices in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh .A total of 225 farm women were selected based on their land holding capacity. The study revealed that women from small farmer category had more participation in taking animals for pregnancy diagnosis (81.33%) and post calving care (77.33%).Women under landless category were more involved in regularly taking animals for grazing (45.33%), green fodder collection and feeding (68%) and feeding animals with concentrates (88%).Feeding of animals with dry fodder regularly was more in small women dairy farmer category (89.33%) and landless (86.66%) than that in medium (56%) farm women category. Cleaning of animal sheds regularly was high in landless (76%) and small (69.33%) farm women than in medium (44%) farm women. Majority of women under landless category were regularly using disinfectants for cleaning of animal sheds (49.33%).Regular involvement in disposing of dung and composting of dung is high in women under landless (69.33%) and small (65.33%) farm women categories. Feeding of Colostrum to the calves regularly is high in small (86.66%) farmwomen category and cleaning of calf after birth is high in landless (84%) women category. Women in landless (77.33%) and small (74.6%) farmer categories are regularly washing the animals before milking. It was observed that 12% of women under medium farmer category and 8% under small farmer category are engaging labour for milking of animals. Women under small (76%) and landless (73.33%) farmer category were regularly taking care of sick animals. Sale of milk regularly through cooperatives was observed to be high in landless (85.33%) and small (90.66%) farm women categories. More number of women under landless (21.33%) were regularly participating in insurance of animals than small (6.66%) and medium (10.66%) farm women categories. More number of medium (9.33%) women dairy farmers were regularly involved in purchase of animals compared to landless (5.33%) and small (1.33%) farm women.
Effect of Methanolic Extract of African Ebony (Diospyros mespiliformis) Stem Bark on Liver and Kidney Function Biomarkers in Alloxan Induced Diabetic Albino Rats
Authors: Muhammad N. B. , Wasagu R. S. U. , Sani B.
Published: January 2021

The effect of methanolic extract of African Ebony (Diospyros mespiliformis) on glucose level,   liver and kidney function biomarkers in alloxan induced diabetic rat was investigated. The rats were grouped into four of ten (10) rats each. The rats in Group B, C and D were induced with 0.4mL of alloxan. Group C was treated with 0.3 mL of methanol stem back of Diospyros mespiliformis, Group D was treated with 1.3 mL of metformin; Group A non-diabetic and Group B diabetic untreated. There was a significance increase (P<0.05) in serum glucose level (23.95±1.04mmol/L) of diabetic untreated rat when compared with the normal rat (5.59±0.22mmol/L) Group A. There was also a significant difference P<0.05 in glucose level of the Groups treated with extract (15.90±0.29mmol/L)  and Group treated with metformin (17.25±0.28mmol/L)  when compared with diabetic untreated rat (23.95±1.04mmol/L). The effect of extract on Liver marker enzymes AST shows a significant (P<0.05) decrease in the Group treated with extract (11.00±0.40U/L) and metformin (11.04±1.08U/L) when compared with untreated (12.88±0.53g/L). ALT showed significant (P<0.05) decrease in the Groups treated with extract (11.05±1.07U/L) and metformin (11.02±1.11U/L) when compared with untreated Group (14.58±0.76g/L). There was a significance P<0.05 increase of Total protein in untreated rats (66.00±2.26g/L) when compared with extract (11.25±1.15g/L) and treated with metformin (11.75±1.11g/L). There was a significance P<0.05 decrease in ALB in diabetic untreated (41.25±0.25g/L) when compared with that treated with extract (57.25±4.37g/L) and metformin (60.20±1.88g/L) and untreated rats. The values of renal function, Urea (6.74±1.76) mMol/l for Group A, (6.50±1.56) mMol/l for Group B, (8.87±1.10)mMol/l for Group C and (8.44±1.21) mMol/l for Group D. Creatinine values (0.44±0.01) mMol/l for Group A, (4.02±0.36) mMol/l for Group B, (3.16±0.10) mMol/l for Group C and (0.46±0.10) mMol/l. The stem bark extracts possesses hypoglycemic effect and also has a positive effect on liver and kidney function biomarker.
Effect of Maternal Age and Occupation on Feeding Habits and Nutritional Status of under Five Children in Kibiya and Dala Local Government Areas, Kano Nigeria
Authors: Gadanya A. M. , Auwal M. , Abubakar S. M. , Mudassir L.
Published: January 2021

Background: Children less than five years worldwide are known to be vulnerable and susceptible in many respects, especially on matters on health. Nutritional deficiencies and malnutrition generally affect children more than any other group. Poor nutrition occurs in developing countries, as well as in more prosperous areas of the world.

Objective: The objective of this study focused on the effect of maternal Occupation and Age on feeding habit, and nutritional status of under-five children in Kibiya (rural) and Dala (Urban) local government areas of Kano State Nigeria,

Study Design: A descriptive research design was adopted by this study to assess the level of nutritional status of under-five-children and to determine the relationship between age, occupation, economic status, attitudes and practices of mothers. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on nutritional status, knowledge, attitudes and nutrition-related practices for a limited time period.

Place and Duration of the Study: The study was conducted in two local government areas in Kano State, DALA and KIBIYA LGA, between February, 2019 to July, 2019.

Methods: Descriptive research design was used for data collection. 198 and 170 mothers with their children from Kibiya and Dala respectively, were used for the study. Data generated was analyzed using Spss, Excel and was presented using frequency table, percentage, mean, standard deviation and correlation.

Results: In Kibiya, there was a very weak, positive correlation between maternal age under-five nutritional status with the exception of weight-for-height, which was found to be statistically significant (p<0.005). In Dala, the relationship was a very weak negative correlation with the exception of height-for-age which is positive correlated (p<0.005). Majority of the children were severely stunted with 44.1% in Dala and 56.1% in Kibya, but there was no significant difference in the prevalence of severe stunting between the two LGAs. Furthermore, majority of the under-fives were within the range of adequate weight: 45.5% Dala and 58.2% Kibiya. However, the prevalence of severely underweight children in Kibiya is 11.2%. This is significantly higher compared to Dala with 2.4% which means severe underweight children in Kibiya is almost five times that in Dala. Prevalence of wasting (mild, moderate and severe) among under-five children were significantly higher in Dala compared to Kibiya (p<0.01).

Conclusion: The findings from this study shows that maternal Age is a significant factor that affect the nutritional status of the children in  both local government but maternal Occupation has less impact on nutritional status of the children.
The Effect of Potassium Diformate Addition to Feed on Growth and Survival Rates of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.)
Authors: Yustiati Ayi , Sa’id Mahmud , Junianto . , Suryadi Ibnu Bangkit Bioshina
Published: January 2021

This research aimed to determine the optimal dosage of potassium diformate addition to commercial feed in order to increase the growth and survival rate of common carp seeds. The method used in this research was experimental in a completely randomized design (CRD) consisting of five treatments and four replications. The treatments used were A (control), B with addition of potassium diformate (0.2%), C (0.3%), D (0.4%), and E (0.5%). For test fish, there were 200 of Common carp seeds with a size of 2-3 cm. The media used was 20 aquariums with a size of 40x30x40 cm3 and a stocking density of 10 individuals/aquarium. The rearing period was 35 days and the amount of feed given was 3% of the fish body weight. The parameters observed included water quality (temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen) which were observed every 7 days for 35 days. Other parameters  monitored were daily growth rate, survival rate, feed efficiency, and the acidity level of the intestine. The results showed that 0.3% addition of potassium diformate gave the best results with a daily growth rate value of 3.21%, highest survival of 98%, efficiency of feed utilization of 64.83%, and a decrease in intestinal pH which helped the process of protein absorption in the fish body. In conclution, the addition of potassium diformate has good effect on growth and survival rates of common carp.
An Evaluation of Impacts of Boko Haram Insurgency in Nigeria: A Case Study of Abuja Metropolis
Authors: Susan Audu Bako , Joy Chijioke, N. , Ikechukwu Uwakwe Stanley
Published: January 2021

The deep and far-reaching fear, chaos and uncertainties related to the Boko Haram insurgency make an empirical study of its impacts significant. Boko Haram insurgency has not only resulted in many deaths but has adversely affected agricultural production in Nigeria and distorted local economy. The Global Terrorism Index (GTI) said Boko Haram has killed more people than any other terrorist group in the world, including the Islamic State. Boko Haram is also responsible for deaths and deprivation in an indirect way of starve-killing. Their operations have caused food shortages, created food insecurity in Nigeria resulting in many farmers either being killed, displaced or their livelihoods destroyed. Infrastructural facilities on the other hand, as well as businesses have not been spared of the devastating impacts of the Boko Haram insurgency. This study strategically examined the effectiveness of security agencies management of Boko Haram insurgencies, identified its impact and examined the best management mechanisms for the insurgency, within the contextual preview of Abuja metropolis. The study adopted a quantitative research design of purposive sampling approach and discovered from the research that attacks on the metropolis resulted in urban dislocation and migration. It therefore recommends increased security partnership, improved welfare for security agencies, training of security agencies in intelligence gathering and management, encourage and strengthen grass root community policing.
Cocoa Farmers’ Perceptions of the Role Played by Tree Diversity and Density on Soil Macro-Fauna Diversity and Density in Cocoa-Based (Theobroma cacao) Agroforestry Systems in Cameroon
Authors: Tsufac Azembouh Roshinus , Awazi Nyong Princely , Yerima Bernard Palmer Kfuban
Published: January 2021

Tree diversity and density in agroforestry systems has been found to increase the diversity and density of soil macro-fauna. However, very little is known of the relationship between tree diversity and density in cocoa agroforests and soil macro-fauna diversity and density. This study was therefore undertaken to fill this knowledge gap. A mixed research approach was adopted and data analysis was done using descriptive and inferential statistics. From the findings, most cocoa farmers perceived that tree diversity in cocoa agroforests was either average, high or very high. Most cocoa farmers perceived that tree density on its part was either average or low. Concerning soil macro-fauna diversity in cocoa-based agroforestry systems, most of the cocoa farmers perceived that soil macro-fauna diversity was either average or high. For soil macro-fauna density in cocoa agroforests, most cocoa farmers perceived that soil macro-fauna density was either average, high or low. Through correlation and regression analyses, it was found that a statistically significant (p<0.05) direct non-cause-effect and cause-effect relationship existed between the level of tree diversity and density in cocoa-based agroforestry systems (very high tree diversity, high tree diversity, average tree diversity, low tree diversity, very low tree diversity), and the level of soil macro-fauna diversity and density. This implies that increasing tree species diversity and density leads to increasing soil macro-fauna diversity and density in cocoa-based agroforestry systems. It is therefore recommended that policy makers take drastic measures to ensure greater tree diversity and density in cocoa agroforests in order to ensure higher soil macro-fauna diversity and density.
Antioxidant Capacity and Total Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents of Methanolic Extracts of Urtica dioica L. by Different Extraction Techniques
Authors: Begić Sabina , Horozić Emir , Alibašić Hurija , Bjelić Edita , Seferović Salih , Kozarević Ermina Cilović , Ibišević Merima , Zukić Amila , Karić Enida , Softić Merima
Published: January 2021

In this study, the efficacy of different extraction techniques (maceration, ultrasound-assisted and Soxhlet extraction) on the content of biologically active components in extracts from fresh and dried nettle leaves, and their antioxidant activity were analyzed. Methanol was used as the solvent. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu, DPPH and FRAP methods, respectively. High content of total phenolic compounds and high antioxidant activity were recorded in extracts of dried nettle. Extracts obtained from fresh nettle samples showed significantly lower content of analyzed bioactive components and lower antioxidant activity. In the case of all extracts, Soxhlet extraction proved to be the most efficient, and maceration the least efficient extraction technique for isolation of bioactive components from nettle leaves.
Isolation and Phenotypic Characterization of Extended Spectrum Beta-lactamase Producing Bacteria from Urinary Tract Infection Patients in Adamawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdullahi Umar , Marvin Jude
Published: January 2021

Introduction: The irrational and inappropriate use of beta-lactam antimicrobial drugs has led to the advent of resistant strains worldwide. Beta-lactam resistance is mainly attributed to acquiring beta-lactamase genes, the consequence has been preventable treatment failures (sometimes fatal) in patients.

Aims: To Identify the Incidence of Extended-spectrum Beta-lactamae Producing Bacteria In Urinary Tract Infection (U.T.I). Patients (outpatients and inpatients) of Specialist Hospital Jimeta-Yola Adamawa State, North-east Nigeria.

Methodology: It was a Cross-sectional study carried out in Microbiology Unit of the Department of Science Laboratory Technology, School of Life Sciences, Modibbo Adama University of Technology Yola, Adamawa State, Nigeria. Between April and June 2016, The Strains Were Isolated, Identified And Screened For E.S.B.L By Double Disc Diffusion Synergy Tests (DDDST) Using Augmentin and Third-Generation Cephalosporin Cefuroxime-CRX, Cefixime-CXM and Ceftazidime-CAZ Purchased from Rapid labs. U.K.

Results: Of the 150 isolates, 49%(74/150) were Gramm positive and 51%(76/150) were Gramm negative, S. aureus 29% (44/150) was found to be the most prevalent organism followed by E. coli  21%(31/150) while P. aeruginosa has the lowest 2%(4/150), of the 150 isolates,17.4%(26/150)  were E.S.B.L producers with female patients accounting for the 84.6%(22/26), out of 31 E. coli isolates 25%(8/31) were ESBL producers, out of the 21 K. pneumonia isolates 19%(4/21) is ESBL  producers, out of the 16 S. feacalis isolates 6%(1/16) is ESBL producers, out of the 14 P. mirabilis isolates 21%(3/14) is ESBL producers, out of the 4 isolates 50%(2/4) are ESBL producers and none of the isolates of S. epidermis and E. aeruginosa was ESBL producer.

Conclusion: Periodic Study Of E.S.B.L Should Be Employed To Monitor Local Resistance Pattern And Comparative Study Of Both The Phenotypic And Genotypic Detection Should Be Employed To Authenticate The Reliability Of The Phenotypic Detection Method(S).
Survey Electrocoagulation Process in Removal of Norfloxacin Antibiotic from Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Balarak Davoud , Dashtizadeh Mahdethe , Oguike Raphael Shadai , Chandrika Kethineni
Published: January 2021

Pharmaceutical compounds have been recognized as a hazardous class of organic pollutants due to their long term effects towards the aquatic environment. The present work studies the efficiency of electrogalation (EC) process in removal Norfloxacin (NFX) from aqueous solutions by aluminum electrodes. This study experimentally was run in a batch electrochemical reactor (1.5 L glass beaker) and six electrodes which installed in parallel. In each of test, 1 L of wastewater added to the test reactor, then effect of four parameters including the voltage 10-60 V (current density: 1,2,3 and 4 mA/cm2), reaction time (5-60 min) initial concentration of NFX and the pH of wastewater (pH=3-9) on process performance were investigated. Results of this study showed that the efficiency of the system could be promoted by increasing the contact time, initial pH of the solution, and the applied voltage. However, the efficiency of EC process has decreased, when higher level of NFX ions was presented in the aqueous phase. The optimal conditions for Norfloxacin removal were: pH 7, initial NFX concentration 25 mg/L, voltage 60 V and reaction time 45 min and the highest removal rate was under these conditions 98.4%. The results of this study indicate that EC process could be applied for the removal of NFX from aqueous solution with a high efficiency.
University Students’ Attitude towards Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Khan Salah-Ud-Din , Saad Eldowaik Mohamed Salah , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: January 2021

Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the attitude of university students towards Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) in a medical university.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was performed among the students of three different faculties (Medical, Pharmacy and Dental) in a medical university in Malaysia using a self-prepared and pre-validated research tool. The Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) Version 24.0 was used to analyze and present the data.

Results: A total of 268 students from three faculties participated in the present study. The faculty of pharmacy students and male students had more positive attitude towards ALS. The positive attitude was more among the non-hostellers than the hostellers.

Conclusion: Overall positive attitude was observed among the three health care provider faculty students. The present study concluded that pharmacy students had a more positive attitude towards ALS than the other two faculty students.
Detection of Clostridium difficile Infection in Al-Quwayiyah General Hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Khater Enas Sh. , Faki Abd Alazim A. Al-
Published: January 2021

Clostridium difficile infections (CDIs) is considered healthcare-associated infections which cause watery diarrhea to long stayed hospitalized patients and cause increased mortality rate.

Aim: Detection of the prevalence and risk factors of C. difficile in Al Quwayiyah General hospital, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and compairing between GeneXpert® PCR assay and Quikchek complete-enzyme imunoassay QCC, (QCC-EIA) in detection of C. difficile infection and toxicity

Materials and Methods: A cross sectional and prospective study was performed for one year started from June 2019 to June 2020. The data collected include demographic, laboratory and clinical data. A total of 104 stool samples were collected from patients presented with diarrhea. GeneXpert® PCR assay and Quikchek complete-enzyme imunoassay QCC (QCC-EIA) were conducted to each stool sample.

Results: Only 15(14.4%) of the 104 studied patients had CDI while 89 (85.6%) were non CDI patients, 13 (86.7%) of the CDI patients were males and 2 (13.3%) were females with mean age for CDI cases 61 (±19.9), while non CDI cases involved 55(61.8%) were males and 34 (38.2%) were females with mean age for cases of non CDI, 60 (±18.7) years. Of the CDI and non CDI cases respectively 12 (80%) and 14(15.7%) had fever, 5 (27%) and 6 (6.7%) had vomitting and 7 (46.7%) and 12 (13.5%) of cases had abdominal pain. There was statistical significant difference between patients with fever while no statistical significant difference regarding vomitting and abdominal pain. There was statistical significant difference between patients with peptic ulcers, patients received proton pump inhibitors and patients received broad-spectrum antibiotics, while There was no statistical significant difference between cardiac disease, cerebrovascular disease, diabetes, pulmonary disease, hepatic disease and Renal disease. Gene expert PCR detected 15/104(14.4%) as positive CDI while QCC-EIA detected 21/104 (20.5%) as positive CDI. On comparison between gene expert PCR technique and QCC-EIA the sensitivity of QCC-EIA was 100%, while the specificity was 91%. The Positive Predictive Value was 74%, while the Negative Predictive Value was 100%.

Conclusion: The C. difficile infection prevalence rate in the hospital was 14.4%. There was statistical significant difference between patients with peptic ulcers, patients received proton pump inhibitors and patients received broad-spectrum antibiotics. The QCC-EIA can be used as a screening test for the detection of C. difficile toxin in stool samples but should be confirmed with a PCR assay or another confirmatory test Due to its decreased specificity.
A MONTE-CARLO MODEL FOR CAISSON OVERTURNING BY TSUNAMIS
Authors: Irish Jennifer L. , Weiss Robert , Goodman-Tchernov Beverly
Published: January 2021

Robust planning, engineering, and design in regions exposed to coastal inundation and wave extremes are critically important for ensuring economic and community resilience. To address this need, the profession is moving toward multi-faceted, risk-based approaches based on probabilistic hazard exposure that account for uncertainty. Herein, a Monte-Carlo model for sliding and overturning of caissons under extreme hydrodynamic loading is presented. The model may be used to support risk-based analyses during caisson design as well as in the characterization of inundation extremes from contemporary hazard reconnaissance and from the geological and archaeological records. Herein, model applications are presented (1) to characterize the 2nd century AD Mediterranean tsunami that damaged the ancient harbor of Caesarea, Israel and (2) to develop a scaling law for overturning.
PHYSICAL AND NUMERICAL MODELING OF TSUNAMI INUNDATION IN COASTAL URBAN AREA
Authors: Fukui Nobuki , Mori Nobuhito , Chang Che-Wei , Chida Yu , Yasuda Tomohiro , Yamamoto Takashi , Kennedy Andrew , Zhang Zhongduo , Copp Andrew
Published: January 2021

This coastal hazards emphasize the need for engineers to understand the fundamental processes causing damage and the potential of maximum damage in order to design coastal communities with increased resilience to tsunami events. Common methods used to evaluate local conditions caused by tsunamis include post-disaster reconnaissance field surveys, numerical modelling, and laboratory experiments. Behavior of land side tsunami, inundation, is not well known as well as the fluid forcing, fragility characteristics and accuracy of tsunami hazard mapping. This study targets to understand local tsunami behavior in a city scale including complex buildings and improve modelling of tsunami inundation in an urban area. Laboratory experiments are an essential starting point in the investigation of urban roughness effects on wave propagation and maximum pressures in coastal communities. Physical modelling usually uses solitary wave, bore wave, and wave imitating Nankai Trough Earthquake as a tsunami wave.Recorded Presentation from the vICCE (YouTube Link): https://youtu.be/-4niVrzXviE
FIELD MEASUREMENTS AND MODELLING OF NEARSHORE CURRENTS AT A HIGH-ENERGY GEOLOGICALLY-CONSTRAINED BEACH
Authors: Mouragues Arthur , Bonneton Philippe , Castelle Bruno , Marieu Vincent
Published: January 2021

We present field measurements of nearshore currents at a high-energy mesotidal beach with the presence of a 500-m headland and a submerged reef. Small changes in wave forcing and tide elevation were found to largely impact circulation patterns. In particular, under 4-m oblique wave conditions, our measurements indicate the presence of an intense low-frequency fluctuating deflection rip flowing against the headland and extending well beyond the surf zone. An XBeach model is further set up to hindcast such flow patterns.Recorded Presentation from the vICCE (YouTube Link): https://youtu.be/EiqnjBIkWJE
MODELLING OF KRAKATOA TSUNAMI WAVE PROPAGATION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT BASED ON SWOT ANALYSIS IN SOUTHERN LAMPUNG, INDONESIA
Authors: Jayaratne Ravindra , Fauzi Aldhiansyah Muhammad , Achiari Hendra , Shibayama Tomoya
Published: January 2021

The eruption of Krakatoa which occurred on the 22 December 2018 caused an avalanche from the Gunung Anak Krakatau (GAK) body into the sea, causing a tsunami in the Sunda Strait. The tsunami affected Lampung (Sumatra) and Banten (Java) provinces in Indonesia. Based on the field observations made by Takabatake et al. (2019) in the southern part of Lampung, it was identified that there were severely damaged areas in Lampung; i.e. East Way Muli, Central Way Muli, and Kunjir villages. A numerical model was developed to simulate past and future tsunami wave propagation scenarios. In addition, the strategic planning technique of SWOT analysis was carried out in order to make recommendations for the resilience of local coastal communities for future tsunami events in Southern Lampung.Recorded Presentation from the vICCE (YouTube Link): https://youtu.be/YR_UX_SdS6c
NEAR-FIELD TSUNAMI FORECASTING BASED ON A TSUNAMI RUN-UP RESPONSE FUNCTION
Authors: Lee Juh-Whan , Irish Jennifer L. , Weiss Robert
Published: January 2021

Since near-field-generated tsunamis can arrive within a few minutes to coastal communities and cause immense damage to life and property, tsunami forecasting systems should provide not only accurate but also rapid tsunami run-up estimates. For this reason, most of the tsunami forecasting systems rely on pre-computed databases, which can forecast tsunamis rapidly by selecting the most closely matched scenario from the databases. However, earthquakes not included in the database can occur, and the resulting error in the tsunami forecast may be large for these earthquakes. In this study, we present a new method that can forecast near-field tsunami run-up estimates for any combination of earthquake fault parameters on a real topography in near real-time, hereafter called the Tsunami Run-up Response Function (TRRF).Recorded Presentation from the vICCE (YouTube Link): https://youtu.be/tw1D29dDxmY