bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Prednisone Dose on the Clinical and Laboratory Course of Henoch–Schönlein Purpura in Children
Authors: Haidar Zainab , Khalil Basheer
Published: August 2023

Objective: Henoch–Schönlein purpura (HSP) is the most common form of systemic vasculitis in children. Most cases are self-limited. Corticosteroids may be considered for HSP patients with severe renal or extrarenal involvement. However, they have some adverse effects related to the dose and the period of treatment. The study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of dose 1mg/kg/day of prednisone in the treatment of HSP clinical and laboratory manifestations compared with dose 2 mg/kg/day. Methods: A total of 28 patients (14 treated with prednisone 1 mg/kg and 14 treated with prednisone 2 mg/kg, followed up for 6 months) were included in a prospective randomized trial study, at University Children Hospital in Damascus, Syria, between 2020 and 2021. Results: As prednisone was only used in severe manifestations, severe abdominal pain was the most common indication (53.5%), followed by gastrointestinal hemorrhage (32.1%). However, prednisone effect on all symptoms and laboratory findings for all patients was studied. Both doses of prednisone (1 and 2 mg/kg/day for 2 weeks, with weaning over the subsequent 2 weeks) were effective in reducing the intensity of extrarenal symptoms, and no statistical difference was found (rash: P = 0.47, abdominal pain: P = 0.32, gastrointestinal hemorrhage: P = 0.32, arthritis: P = 0.84, and soft-tissues edema: P = 1). In both groups, new renal symptoms and gastrointestinal complications were developed. Elevated inflammatory markers (CRP: 59.3%, ESR: 77.3%) turned up normal at the end of treatment in both groups. Children treated with prednisone 2mg/kg showed increased appetite; three cases developed Cushing’s moon face; one case showed a transient hypertension at the end of treatment. Conclusions: The routine, early use of prednisone in uncomplicated HSP is not recommended. However, when it is indicated, a 2-week course of prednisone 1 mg/kg/day could be an effective alternative to the higher dose (2 mg/kg/day), with less side effects.
Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus at Tripoli University Hospital, Libya
Authors: Bennaser Gamal Ali , Gareeb Gareeb Albagdadi
Published: August 2023

Objective: Keratoconus is a progressive, noninflammatory corneal disorder where the normally spherical corneal structure progressively assumes a cone shape, thereby distorting vision and decreasing the quality of life from a young age. Cross-linking remains the only procedure for keratoconus that can be used to halt the progression of the disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of corneal cross-linking in Tripoli University Hospital, Libya in patients between the ages of 13 and 35 years. Methods: A retrospective study on patients from the Tripoli University Hospital records the cross-linking procedures performed for keratoconus conducted between February 2017 and October 2019. Population size of 49 patients (54 eyes) was selected from patients attending cornea clinic at Tripoli University Hospital between February 2017 and October 2019. Results: A total of 54 eyes from 49 patients were analyzed from the records, 2 eyes progressed postcross-linking on both K-max and pachymetry values. Twelve eyes showed an increase in K-max readings only and 16 showed progression on pachymetry only. Conclusions: The study showed that cross-linking for keratoconus is an effective method of treating progressive keratoconus but seems less effective than comparative studies done in other places elsewhere.
Ectodermal Dysplasia: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Soleman Omran
Published: August 2023

The ectodermal dysplasias (EDs) comprise a large, heterogeneous group of inherited disorders that are defined by primary defects in the development of two or more tissues derived from embryonic ectoderm. The primarily involved tissues are the skin and its appendages (hair follicles, eccrine glands, sebaceous glands, and nails) and teeth. Although Thurnam published the first report of a patient with ED in 1848, the term ED was not coined until 1929 by Weech. One such case report of ED is demonstrated here.
Validity and Responsiveness of EuroQoL-5 (EQ-5D-3L) Versus SF-36 Questionnaire in Chronic Pelvic Pain
Authors: Shaddoud Abla
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives: Assessment of health-related quality of life (QoL) and particularly utility values are important components of health economic analyses. However, no consensus has emerged regarding the most appropriate instrument within a therapeutic area such as chronic pelvic pain (CPP). Thus, this study compared two instruments EuroQoL-five dimensions-3 levels (EQ-5D-3L) and Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) for their validity in patients with CPP. Methods: This was an intervention study, parallel design intersubject and intrasubject variabilities, was conducted in the hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Damascus University over 2 years. The participants in this study were 70 women with CPP who underwent laparoscopic adhesiolysis. The women were assessed at 0 and 6 months for QoL measures SF-36 and EQ-5D-3L. Results: Out of 70 participants who underwent laparoscopy, 60 qualified to take part in this study after doing the operation. Moderate correlations among the majority of dimensions was seen. In SF-36, the most severe problems were seen in the dimensions VT-BP and mental health according to the level of severity of pain. In EQ-5D-3L, patients most frequently noted having sever problems in pain/discomfort dimension and in the second place usual activity and anxiety/depression. Both tools could differentiate between the severity levels of pain, but EQ-5D-3L was more responsive to deterioration in pain. SF-36 had a higher response means to improvements. Conclusions: SF-36 appears to be more appropriate to be used among patients with CPP.
Recurring nocardial mycetoma in an immunocompetent host: A rare case report
Authors: Shivanna Vijaya , Venkatesha D.
Published: August 2023

Actinomycetoma is a chronic subcutaneous infection caused by aerobic bacteria of genus Nocardia. Nocardia species commonly affects immunocompromised patients but can rarely infect immunocompetent individuals. An agriculturist aged about 40 years presented with swelling and multiple sinuses with serous discharge on the left shoulder region. The pus sample yielded Nocardia brasiliensis by conventional culture techniques. We present a rare case of recurring nocardial mycetoma in an immunocompetent person.
Glomus tumor of volar pulp of little finger: A rare presentation
Authors: Shukla Surendra K , Shikalgar Tausif Ahmed A , Kadakia Gaurav
Published: August 2023

Glomus tumors are tumors with unknown etiology. Though the most common location is subungual region of distal phalanx of hand, occurrence in the volar pulp region is a rare presentation and less commonly reported. Herewith, we are reporting a case of glomus tumor of the volar pulp region of hand.
A case report of post-traumatic patellofemoral instability managed by newer modification of standard Cambell approach
Authors: Ahmed Parwej , Gupta Rahul , Khan Azad , Siddiqui Areeb Ali
Published: August 2023

A case report of management of medial patellofemoral ligament instability in a 15-year-old male with habitual patella dislocation. A 15-year-old patient presented with a complaint of habitual patellar dislocation. He was diagnosed with a case of medial patellofemoral ligament insufficiency; there was a history of direct trauma to the knee 6 years back. Clinical examination showed a critical angle of dislocation of the patella of 15 degrees of flexion. The patient was managed by modification in the standard Campbell approach with lateral slit grafting of vastus lateralis with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction fixed with an interference screw. The patient showed a significant improvement after surgery. Preoperatively stability was checked at an extreme range of motion the stability was satisfactory. In this case, there is no abnormality of knee extensor apparatus or predisposing bony factors; isolated medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction seems effective in treating confirmed patellar instability with the standard Campbell approach (lateral slip grafting of vastus lateralis with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction fixed with interference screw) shows good result and good patient satisfaction.
Giant cell rich lesion at distal end radius in a skeletally immature patient
Authors: Julfiqar Muhammad , Khan Abdul Qayyum , Abbas Mazhar , Sabir Aamir Bin , Siddiqui Yasir Salam , Motiwala Zainab Yusufali , Khan Isna Rafat
Published: August 2023

Giant cell tumor has been reported rarely in pediatric age groups and the reported literature incidence varies from 1.8% to 10.6%. This case study is novel because it reports a rare presentation of giant cell tumor (GCT) as progressive pain and swelling in the wrist in a 12-year-old boy. Radiological workup revealed a lytic lesion and further histopathology revealed the presence of multinucleated giant cells thus confirming the diagnosis of GCT. It was managed by local tumor resection and 2-year follow-up had no signs of recurrence with satisfactory ROM at the elbow wrist and forearm with mild valgus at the wrist.
Studying functional and radiological outcome of calcaneum fracture fixation using operative and nonoperative techniques in treatment of calcaneal fractures
Authors: Tank Gyaneshwar , Garg Sahil , Bhati Shivam
Published: August 2023

Backgroun:

Management of Calcaneum fractures includes non-operative and operative management. Their has been various controversies regarding the same . With this study we have tried to gather the results of operative and non- operative management.

Method:

We conducted a prospective study for a period of 1.5 years to compare operative and nonoperative techniques in the treatment of calcaneal fractures. Patients attending the casualty, outpatient department (OPD), and those who were admitted indoors of SVBP hospital associated with LLRM Medical College and were assigned into two groups based on the treatment given operative and nonoperative treatment from April 2021 to October 2022 and were regularly followed for a period of 1.5 years .Radiological evaluation and functional assessment were done at 6 months and 1 year. The Functional outcome measures were assessed using American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scale and radiological parameters by means of Bohler’s and Gissane’s angles.

Results:

Forty patients with calcaneal fractures participated in our study. Twenty of them were operated, and 20 patients were treated conservatively with pop cast. Amongst operated cases, radiological Bohler’s angle was restored in 12 cases, and had good functional results at 1 year follow-up, and six cases showed fair results, whereas two patients had poor results (mean Bohler: 20.7; AOFAS: 70.8). Amongst the Twenty cases treated conservatively with pop cast had showed fair results (mean Bohler: 28.2; mean AOFAS: 69.3).

Conclusion:

The overall outcome of operated cases were better than non-operated cases. There is a proportionate relationship between the restoration of Bohler’s and Gissane’s angles and the functional outcome of the patients (SD operative:3.33; SD nonoperative: 1.69; t value: 8.453; P = 0.001). Operative treatment of displaced intra-articular calcaneal fractures gave good results at 1-year follow-up, provided Bohler’s angle was restored to normal range.
Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis due to Disseminated Histoplasmosis in a Patient with HIV Infection
Authors: Divyashree Krishna , Singh Harpreet , Parkhi Mayur , Karmakar Indrani , Sachdeva Man Updesh Singh , Suri Vikas , Bhalla Ashish
Published: August 2023

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is usually considered a rapidly progressive fatal illness with poor outcomes. It is of two types: primary or familial and secondary. In patients with HIV, opportunistic infections are the secondary triggers of HLH. First line of management of infection associated HLH is treatment of the underlying infection. Here, we present a case of HLH in HIV infection due to disseminated histoplasmosis managed with liposomal amphotericin B, who required immunosuppressive therapy with intravenous immunoglobulin and dexamethasone due to nonresponse to primary therapy.
Factors Associated with the Use of Electronic Cigarettes among Youths
Authors: Klinsophon Thaniya , Thaveeratitham Premtip , Waongenngarm Pooriput
Published: August 2023

Background::

Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are rapidly becoming a popular new trend among youths and adolescents. However, there is little information available about the causes of e-cigarette use in youths, especially the mental, belief/attitude, and marketing factors that lead to e-cigarette usage.

Aim:

This study aimed to evaluate the factors associated with e-cigarette use among youths.

Methods:

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 1164 youths, administering a self-report questionnaire relating to the risk factors for e-cigarette usage: individual, family and friends, mental, belief/attitude, and marketing factors. We used logistic regression analysis to examine the factors and their association with e-cigarette use.

Results:

The prevalence of current e-cigarette use was 10.6%, while 19.4% of participants had used e-cigarettes at some time in their lives. History of drug use and attitudes about e-cigarette use (e-cigarettes are not harmful to health, using e-cigarettes can help stop smoking, and e-cigarettes help people improve social skills) were significantly associated with the current use of e-cigarettes. GPAX was a protective factor against current e-cigarette use.

Conclusion:

E-cigarette use is relatively high among youths. We discovered erroneous beliefs and attitudes (misunderstanding or disinformation regarding the harmful effects of e-cigarette use). Interventions to enhance knowledge about e-cigarettes are required for youths to reduce current e-cigarette use.
Motivation to study speech and hearing: A survey of undergraduate students in India
Authors: Lokheshwar Shanmugasundaram , Abhijith Mohankumar , Lokheshwar Anu , Jayaram Mannarukrishnaiah
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

India does not have sufficient speech and hearing professionals to cater the large population with communication disorders. Understanding student’s motive to take up professional training in the field of speech and hearing will help administrators and policy makers to strategies to get more students. The study aimed to identify factors that influence students to choose Bachelor of Audiology and Speech-language Pathology (B.ASLP).

Materials and Methods:

A 10-item questionnaire on Google Form was answered by undergraduate students pursuing training in audiology and speech-language pathology from different institutions across India. The responses of the students were analyzed through descriptive statistics.

Results:

In total, 1018 students from 37 colleges responded that they joined speech and hearing programs because the field is related to medical profession (47%); has good career prospects (36.9%); and that it enables them to serve the disabled population (30.4%). B.ASLP was the first choice for study for as many as 48.5% of the students.

Conclusion:

As students in India need to make a major academic decision in their eleventh year of schooling to choose between science, commerce, and arts, the institutes offering B.ASLP must orient and create awareness among high-school students to attract them to the speech and hearing field.
Test–retest reliability of sound-field localization test in normal-hearing children
Authors: Syeda Aisha , Kavassery Nisha Venkateswaran , Jain Chandni
Published: August 2023

Purpose:

Traditionally, auditory spatial acuity is assessed using a sound-field localization test that involves the auditory stimuli emitted from array of loudspeakers in a sound-treated room. Although the use of loudspeakers mimics real life environments, its reliability has not been evaluated in children. Thus, the present study examined the test–retest reliability of sound-field localization test in school-aged normal-hearing children.

Materials and Methods:

Twenty-four typically-developing children in the age range of 7–12 years (M
age: 9.97 ± 0.88) participated in the study. Localization testing was carried out twice on all the participants using an array of 18 loudspeakers (spaced 20° apart) arranged in a circular form. A 500 ms broadband noise was randomly presented at each azimuth. The overall accuracy and quadrant-specific accuracy scores were compared between the two sessions.

Results:

The Wilcoxon sign rank test results showed no significant difference in overall (P = 0.58) and quadrant-wise accuracy scores between the two sessions. The intra-class correlation (ICC) results also demonstrated a high test–retest reliability (0.91) for the overall localization accuracy score. The results also showed low within-subject variability (5.78%) of overall scores with a minimal response bias of 7.56%.

Conclusions:

The present study’s results show a high test–retest reliability of the sound-field localization test, suggestive of its efficacy in assessing spatial processing abilities in school-aged children. High reliability of the test favors its application in localization assessment in children with spatial hearing disorders.
Biomechanical Behaviour of Abutment Teeth Prepared using the Biologically Oriented Preparation Technique: A Systematic Review
Authors: Manoj Smita Sara , Ravi Radhika , Mithula M. S. , Varghese Kurien
Published: August 2023

Background:

The biologically oriented preparation technique (BOPT) is a protocol in which a vertical tooth preparation is done without margins, elimination of cemento-enamel junction followed by gingitage and an immediate provisional restoration with the aim of adapting the marginal periodontal tissues to a newer crown emergence profile created by the laboratory fabricated prosthesis. However, there is limited documented scientific evidence on this topic.

Purpose:

The purpose of this systematic review was to assess the biological and mechanical behaviour of abutment teeth prepared using the BOPT through a review of documented clinical evidence.

Materials and Methods:

This review followed the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Using the key words, an electronic search was completed in databases such as PubMed, EBSCO, Google Scholar, Research Gate and Scopus without placing any restriction on the year of publication. Manual search was also done. The search strategy included articles published until 30 September, 2022. Two investigators independently evaluated the quality of the studies that met the inclusion criteria by applying the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist. The lack of consensus was resolved by a third investigator. A fourth investigator provided final data verification and technical support.

Results:

Eight articles that fulfilled the proposed inclusion criteria for the review were selected, which included 1 randomised control trial, 3 prospective clinical studies, 1 longitudinal study, 2 clinical reports and a case report on an extracted tooth. Population or problem, intervention, comparison, outcome format was applicable only to one randomised control trial and three prospective studies. All the studies have shown that the biomechanical behaviour of abutment teeth prepared using the BOPT technique in terms of emergence profile, gingival health, marginal stability and bleeding on probing was similar to the conventional method. However, it was observed that all the articles published had a common author.

Conclusions:

Although a favourable biomechanical behaviour of abutment teeth prepared using BOPT was documented, long-term follow-up studies are required before its implementation.

Clinical Implications:

BOPT can be considered an alternative to the conventional tooth preparation technique. However, long-term clinical research is required for further recommendation.
Study of coagulopathy in preterms
Authors: Baby Denna Ann , Anand M. R. , Preetha Remesh , Vishnu Mohan P. T.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

A lack of evidence surrounding the assessment of coagulation abnormalities in neonates points to an urgent need to have a consensus on normal values based on gestation and postnatal age, so that we can have a consistent practice in treating abnormal clotting profiles.

OBJECTIVES:

The primary objective of this study was to study the incidence of bleeding associated with and without coagulopathy in high-risk preterms using NeoBAT score and prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin clotting time values with a prospective observational study. The secondary objective of this study was to study the incidence of asymptomatic coagulopathy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS:

This was a prospective observational study conducted in a level 3 neonatal intensive care unit. All high-risk preterms less than 34 weeks were included in the study. The outcome was to study the incidence of bleeding associated with and without coagulopathy.

RESULTS:

The incidence of coagulopathy was 69.8%, whereas that of clinical bleeding manifestation was 6.7%. Of these, 6% was associated with coagulopathy and 0.7% was not associated with coagulopathy. Approximately 63.6% had asymptomatic coagulopathy.

CONCLUSION:

Asymptomatic coagulopathy is a common occurrence in preterms. Most of the coagulopathy may resolve on its own. Fresh frozen plasma administration alone is not protective against clinical bleeding.
Prevalence of the different phenotypes of polycystic ovarian syndrome in adolescents and its association to metabolic and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Mendoza Lianne M. , Reyes Lylah D.
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent heterogeneous disorder in females. Timely diagnosis and management are important, especially in adolescents; despite this, there is a paucity of data focusing on this group.

OBJECTIVE:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of the different phenotypes of PCOS in adolescents and identify their association with metabolic and cardiovascular risk.

METHODOLOGY:

All medical records of patients seen at the OPD of a tertiary institution from January 2015 to December 2019 that had a diagnosis of PCOS were reviewed. The data that were extracted included the patient's age, blood pressure at the time of consult, weight, height, signs and symptoms (anovulation and hirsutism), and laboratory results (transvaginal ultrasound, 75 g oral glucose tolerance test [OGTT], and lipid profile). Purposive sampling was done for this study.

RESULTS:

The prevalence of phenotypes A is 31.9%, B at 31.9%, C around 5.8%, and D at 49.6%, respectively. Those Phenotype D adolescents had significantly higher body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.021), while those having phenotype B had significantly higher total cholesterol levels (P = 0.038). No significant differences were noted in the blood pressure, 75 g OGTT, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), very LDL, high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides among the different PCOS phenotypes.

CONCLUSION:

Adolescents with PCOS have an increased risk for metabolic and cardiovascular outcomes; however, there is no significant difference when compared across all phenotypes. It was among those having phenotype D that were found to have a BMI classified as overweight, and phenotype B have elevated total cholesterol levels.
Primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma in a postmenopausal woman diagnosed using immunohistochemistry
Authors: Decipulo Darlene Anne A. , Bagadiong Jonalyn G.
Published: August 2023

Primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma is a very rare tumor which is most commonly seen in postmenopausal women. Primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma has a very poor prognosis, with less than 20% of patients being alive at 5 years. The case is a 51-year-old female who presented with a lower abdominal mass secondary to an ovarian new growth. An exploratory laparotomy, peritoneal fluid cytology, unilateral salpingo-oophorectomy with malignant frozen section of affected ovary, which revealed malignant tumor, proceeded with surgical staging total abdominal hysterectomy contralateral salpingo-oophorectomy, then proceeded to complete surgical staging with infracolic omentectomy, Jackson-Pratt drain insertion was performed. Microscopic and immunohistochemical findings established the diagnosis of primary ovarian leiomyosarcoma. Surgery is the cornerstone of treatment, while the role of chemotherapy and radiotherapy is still not clear because substantial data are lacking. The prognosis of primary pure ovarian leiomyosarcomas is extremely poor and there is no established treatment modality for this rare type of tumor.
Dimensions of Kleinian orbital sets
Authors: Bartlett Thomas , Fraser Jonathan M.
Published: August 2023

Given a non-empty bounded subset of hyperbolic space and a Kleinian group acting on that space, the
orbital set
is the orbit of the given set under the action of the group. We may view orbital sets as bounded (often fractal) subsets of Euclidean space. We prove that the upper box dimension of an orbital set is given by the maximum of three quantities: the upper box dimension of the given set, the Poincaré exponent of the Kleinian group, and the upper box dimension of the limit set of the Kleinian group. Since we do not make any assumptions about the Kleinian group, none of the terms in the maximum can be removed in general. We show by constructing an explicit example that our assumption that the given set is bounded (in the hyperbolic metric) cannot be removed in general.
Темная материя как гравитационный эффект в подходе теории вложения
Authors: Paston Sergey Aleksandrovich
Published: August 2023

Обсуждается возможность объяснения наблюдений, обычно связываемых с существованием темной материи, путем перехода от ОТО к предложенной Редже и Тейтельбоймом модифицированной теории гравитации - теории вложения. При таком подходе предполагается, что наше пространство-время представляет собой четырехмерную поверхность в десятимерном плоском объемлющем пространстве. Этот ясный геометрический смысл приводящей к новой теории замены переменной в действии ОТО отличает данный подход от известных альтернатив - миметической гравитации и других вариантов. После перехода к модифицированной теории гравитации кроме решений, соответствующих ОТО, появляются дополнительные решения, которые можно интерпретировать как решения ОТО с дополнительной фиктивной материей. Именно в ней можно пытаться увидеть темную материю, так что исчезает необходимость предполагать существование темной материи как фундаментального объекта - ее роль играют степени свободы модифицированной гравитации. В случае теории вложения количество степеней свободы фиктивной материи оказывается достаточно большим, чтобы можно было рассчитывать объяснить все наблюдения без дополнительного усложнения теории.
О преобразовании Ландау-Халатникова-Фрадкина в замороженной КЭД$ _3$
Authors: Kotikov Anatolii Vasil'evich
Published: August 2023

Представлен обзор результатов исследований калибровочной зависимости безмассового фермионного пропагатора в трехмерной замороженной квантовой электродинамике в рамках размерной регуляризации при $d=3-2\varepsilon$. В предположении конечности коэффициентов пертурбативного разложения, т. е. существовании для них предела $\varepsilon\to 0$, было показано, что при $d=3$ все нечетные пертурбативные коэффициенты, начиная с третьего, должны быть равны нулю в любой калибровке. Для проверки этого результата, были рассчитаны трех- и четырехпетлевые поправки к безмассовому фермионному пропагатору. Трехпетлевая поправка оказалась конечной и калибровочно-инвариантной, а четырехпетлевая поправка содержит сингулярности. Члены, зависящие от калибровочного параметра, полностью определяются коэффициентами более низких порядков в соответствии с преобразованием Ландау-Халатникова-Фрадкина.
Enset landrace diversity in major enset growing regions of Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Blomme G. , Kearsley E. , Buta S. , Chala A. , Kebede R. , Addis T. , Yemataw Z.
Published: August 2023

Enset [Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman] is an important food security crop of the Southern Ethiopian highlands. The cultivation of enset is characterised by a wide variety of landraces, suitable to varying agro-ecological conditions and with multiple uses by households. The objective of this paper is to present enset landrace diversity, characteristics and uses in Ethiopia. The study was done through interviews with 375 households covering 20 communities (kebeles) and eight ethnic groups, along an altitudinal range of 1,500 to 3,000 masl across the main enset-producing belt in Southern Ethiopia. A total of 296 locally named enset landraces were recorded. Landrace presence was mostly constrained at the kebele and zone levels, with limited overlap in landrace names across these boundaries. Moderate to high enset landrace diversity was observed on farms across the entire study region. Cultivating a variety of landraces not only allowed for diversified uses, but increases the likelihood of retained yield and food security under variable environmental circumstances. Farmer experience and indigenous knowledge allow for the selection of specific landraces suited to prevalent agro-ecological conditions. We identified a perception bias in the attribution of landrace agro-ecological characteristics, with farmer insight often dependent on the environmental conditions that the local community was exposed to. We underscore the importance of research-based characterisation of enset landraces, to ensure optimal cultivation of this food security crop in changing climatic conditions.
A review of modern anatomy teaching practices
Authors: Waithaka Maryann , Kipkorir Vincent , Munguti Jeremiah , Olabu Beda
Published: August 2023

No abstract.
History of anatomy and its involvement with medical science and practice: Historical review
Authors: Singh Rajani
Published: August 2023

The medical practice starts from Patient’s discomfort in his body structures due to distortion in morphology. This is located and examined by clinician so, medical practice and Anatomical knowledge are hand and gloves with each other. It is evident from history of Anatomy that Anatomy has been discovered by practicing physicians and surgeons. That clearly indicate that they could make the medical practice only after exploring the Anatomy. The source of knowledge of Anatomy were animal or human being as is evident from this review. The medical practice might have been started from evolution of human-being. Earlier some people were exploring the herbal medicine on the results of experiments on themselves for the effect of these medicines to treat their own discomforts. When it shewed the impact, they chose it to treat others for the same discomfort. That time they might not be knowing Anatomy but it was an empirical result. As the location of discomforts was associated with remedy so, this might have involved Anatomy. History of clinical practice and thereby Anatomy is as old as 1600BC. Earliar the people experimented on animals and then on cadavers and executed criminals. Then came different Anatomical Laws governing the use of cadavers. Now, current scenario is that there is lack of cadevers all over the world. To compensate for this, new methods including anatomage table, models and charts have been used to teach anatomy. But these novel methods can only supplement and cannot replace cadaveric dissections. It is very essential to know how Anatomy evolved and took present shape. This encouraged the author to review history of Anatomy and correlate with the simultaneously running clinical practice. The development of Anatomy has been presented along with its advancement with development of science and technology involved with medical education and clinical practice. Thus, Anatomy is not merely an academic subject in medical education rather Anatomy is needed to grasp all the subjects of medical education used to develop clinical skill for clinical practice. This has also been supported by history of Anatomy as all other subjects of medical education evolved from Anatomy. The interwoven interrelations between these subjects with clinical practice are essential as revealed by history of Anatomy to analyse the diagnosis and treatment.
Evaluation of Abrus precatorius on reproductive function of male Wistar rat
Authors: Okwute Patrick Godwin , Oluwatunase Gideon Olamilekan , Mofolorunso Adekunle M. , Asafa Olayinka Olawale , Ogunbiyi Olubunmi Esther , Olalekan Samuel
Published: August 2023

Background: In recent times, attention has been shifted from synthetic drugs to the use of medicinal plants and this has greatly improved reproductive functions. Abrus precatorious plant has different parts which are used as diverse sources of naturally occurring chemicals that have a variety of therapeutic effects on the body. However, in this present study, we consolidated the reproductive property of Abrus precatorius in paroxetine-induced male reproductive dysfunction. Methods: Twenty four (24) male rats were divided into four (4) groups each containing six animals was used for this experiment following paroxetine-induced erectile dysfunction. Group one, received 1ml of distilled water, Group two received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 50mg/kg of sildenafil, Group three received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 300mg/kg of A. precatorius extract, Group four received 20mg/kg of Paroxetine and 900mg/kg of A. precatorius extract for 21 days. Results: Results from the studies reveal that there was significant decrease in the sperm motility of the rats administered with Abrus precatorius when compared with control. Interestingly, the high dose extract increased the serum testosterone levels significantly while the low dose extract significantly reduce the level of testosterone when compared with the control. Histological examination of the testes of treated rats displayed noticeable atrophy, which was characterized by disruption of the seminiferous epithelium and reduction in cell population of the Leydig cells. Conclusion: It appears that very high dose of Abrus precatorius may induce infertility by increasing serum testosterone levels.
Histomorphological characteristics of prostate specimens analyzed at a referral hospital in Kenya.
Authors: Musungu Vincent , Oyieko Willis , Marera Domnic , Magak Gideon Ng’wena
Published: August 2023

Background: Global shift to high energy foods is important risk factor for new variants of prostate cancer. Some prostate tumors have an indolent course while others have an aggressive course; therefore, knowledge of tumor subtypes can help in clinical decision-making based on the patient profile. Methods: The main aim of the study was to determine the histomorphological characteristics of prostate specimens analyzed at regional referral hospital. The study was a crosssectional retrospective study. The target specimens in this study consisted of prostate specimens that had prostate specific antigen level and were analyzed and reported between 2017 and 2022 at Jaramogi Odinga Oginga teaching and referral hospital, Kisumu Kenya. Results: Prostate color was not reported in eight reports. Of the 72 specimens observed, 50 (69.4%) were reported to be white, 12 (16.7%) were reported to be tan/white, 9 (12.5%) were tan brown, and 1 (1.4%) was tan grey. There was significant variation (p=0.001) in prostate specimen color. Of the 80 specimens, 47 (58.75%) had coarse surface, 16(20.00%) nodulated surfaces and 17 (21.25%) shrunken surfaces. There was variation in prostate surfaces (p<0.00001, X2=23.275). Majority of specimens 55 (68.8%) measured between 0-29 mm, 12 (15%) measured 30-59 mm, 7 (8.8%) measured 60-89, 3 (3.8%) measured 90-119, 2 (2.5%) measured >150 mm and 1 (1.3%) measured 120-149 mm. There was no significant difference in the prostate biopsy sizes in comparison to the mean (p=0.984, t=0.020, 95% CI). The majority 20 (25%), of specimens had prostate cancer 15 (18.75%) had atypical findings, and 2 (2.5%) had high-grade proliferative intraepithelial neoplasia. The microscopic features of the groups did not differ significantly (F2, 34 = 1.469, p = 0.244). There is positive correlation between Gleason scores and Prostate specific antigen levels (p = 0.004, r = 0.474). Conclusion: There is variation of specimen color in prostate specimen with prostate cancer implying that advanced prostate disease causes changes in prostate color. Atypical prostate findings are common in age 50-59 which may suggest that targeted prevention and intervention should focus on this age group. Higher Gleason scores are likely to be observed in patients with higher PSA levels among patients being evaluated for prostate tumors.
Alterations in histomorphology, biochemical parameters and gross morphometry in liver of albino rats following administration of rifampicin and isoniazid
Authors: Libamila Hans Lwunza , Ouno Geoffrey Arasa , Demba Rodgers Norman
Published: August 2023

Background: Rifampicin (RIF) and Isoniazid (INH) are two main medicinal drugs used as first line regimen in the treatment of Tuberculosis. These drugs have shown to induce hepatotoxicity and alteration of liver parenchyma upon their administration. The aim of this study was to investigate the gross morphometric, histomorphological and biochemical effect of INH and RIF on the liver architecture. Methods: Adult albino rats with an average weight of between 150g to 250g were used in the study. A total of 12 rats were randomly assigned into 2 groups each group containing 6 rats. Group one was the control group (no intervention). Group two was the experimental group, given INH (50mg/kgbwt) and RIF (50mg/kgbwt). At the end of the experiment, after 21 days, the albino rats were sacrificed humanely, liver harvested, weighed and the gross parameters measured using a ruler and caliper. Blood samples were taken for liver serum biomarkers analysis. Thereafter, the livers were processed and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin for histological examination. Results: There was a significant (p value < 0.0001) decrease in gross morphometric measurements of the weight, length, width, thickness in experimental group. The three selected liver biochemical parameters (ALT, AST and ALP) were observed to be high above their normal ranges. The liver sections in positive control group showed deranged histomorphological features. Conclusion: co-administration of Rifampicin and Isoniazid can have effect on gross morphometric, histomorphology and liver biochemical parameters of the liver therefore, their administration should be done in caution.
Emergence of New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) producing Enterobacterales from water sources: An impending public health challenge in Adamawa-north senatorial zone, Nigeria
Authors: Tula M. Y. , Enabulele O. I. , Ophori E. A. , Okojie R. O. , Joel F.
Published: August 2023

Background: The emergence of New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 (NDM-1) among Enterobacterales in water sources has raised a major public health concern and constitute critical threat to human health as these organisms exhibits high level of resistance to available potent antibiotics. The aim of this study is to detect the presence of NDM-1 gene among carbapenem resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) isolates from water sources.

Methodology: A total of 256 water samples were collected from randomly selected hand-dug wells (128 samples) and river/stream (128 samples) for each of dry and rainy seasons in four out of the five local government areas (LGAs) of Adamawa-north senatorial zone, Nigeria. The water samples were filtered using membrane filtration technique and the filters introduced into appropriate bacteriologic media for bacterial growth. The bacterial isolates recovered were identified by both phenotypic and molecular protocols. Phenotypic carbapenem (imipenem) resistance was determined by disc diffusion test, blaNDM-1 gene was detected by specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test, and plasmid DNA was extracted and electrophoresed by standard procedure.

Results: Of the 256 water samples analyzed for bacteria growth, 300 bacterial isolates of the order Enterobacterales were recovered. Of these, only 45 (12.6%) isolates were phenotypically resistant to carbapenem (imipenem) antibiotic and blaNDM-1 gene was detected in 30 (66.7%) of these. While blaNDM-1 gene was detected in all the isolates of Klebsiella oxytoca, Klebsiella variicola, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enterobacter hormaechei, Enterobacter asburiae, Citrobacter freundii, and Morganella morganii that were resistant to imipenem, other isolates harbored blaNDM-1 gene in varying proportion. Most of the isolates positive for blaNDM-1 also harbored R-plasmids.

Conclusion: Emergence of carbapenem resistance mediated by NDM-1 gene in Enterobacterales isolated from water sources constitutes an emerging public health challenge with potential transmission to humans, thereby complicating the treatment of infections caused by these resistant pathogens in man. As such, the urgent need for antimicrobial surveillance and stewardship is of utmost importance.
Conversational thinking as a new methodological option for African philosophy
Authors: Attoe Aribiah David , Uduagwu Chukwueloka Simon
Published: August 2023

In response to the question about what the most attractive method for African philosophy is, we consider conversational thinking as an alternative to pre-existing methods in African philosophy, especially in contemporary times. We shall show in this essay that the heavy critique of the ethnophilosophical method–concerning its inadequacy–left a gap that both philosophic sagacity and hermeneutics have  failed to fill. In the contemporary period, Innocent Asouzu developed what he calls complementary reflection, which is a framework for  bridge-building between old and new, weak and strong, local and alien and in all aspects of reality, which he claims constitute missing  links of reality. Unfortunately, Asouzu’s method of complementary reflection appears to say little about resolving conflicts among  dissenting variables, and in this regard, his method, though promising, also remains inadequate. Our goal here is to demonstrate that  conversational thinking is a viable attempt at a systematised and well-developed methodology for doing African Philosophy – one which  proceeds from an African place and discovers its relevance in the global space. To properly articulate the relevance and viability of  conversational thinking, we begin by examining, in some detail, the various flaws of the pre-existing methodologies of African  philosophy. We go a step further to explicate the tenets of conversational thinking and present it as a viable method(ology) borne out of  the African experience for African philosophy. Furthermore, we introduce the up-down movement of thought as a novel description of  conversational thinking at the level of what we refer to as the sub-micro level of conversational thinking. We conclude by identifying the  ways in which conversational thinking situates African philosophy and can drive its discourses in contemporary time.
Global stability and bifurcation analysis on the dynamics of three interacting populations in prey-predator system
Authors: Umar Ahmed , Musa Samuel , Bashir Umar S.
Published: August 2023

A mathematical model was proposed and analysed to study the dynamics of a system of a prey, primary predator and a super predator in which the predators show Holing Type II functional response to their respective prey. The study substantially provides mechanism for improving the survivability of honeybee population and to halt the negative impact of Varroa-mite infestation on honeybee population by introducing Pseudoscorpion to serve as a super predator of Varroa-mite. Also, the study significantly shows the impact of virus on honeybee infested with virus-carrying Varroa-mite. The global stability analysis and Hopf-bifurcation of the interior steady state existence of the system are studied and explored. The analytical results matched with the numerical results of the model developed.
Characterization of groundnut shell ash as partial replacement of cement for cheaper construction in north-western Nigeria
Authors: Abdulrahman Umar , Ali Uwaisu A.
Published: August 2023

Groundnut is an important cash crop produced in large quantity in North-Western Nigeria. The production of ground nut reached its peak in Nigeria during the period of 1969 to 1980s, when approximately 1.7 million tonnes of the pods were produced from an area of 1.9 million hectares. This enormous waste is presently not being harnessed productively in other than burning, which is a major air pollution and indiscriminate dumping that cause environmental hazard. Groundnut husk when burnt under controlled temperature has been found to be rich in silica. The benefit of high silica content makes it very useful pozzolanic material and a good possible admixture in concrete production. Conversion of wastes to wealth is the new vogue all over the world; this is not only to reduce environmental degradation and pollution but also to effectively put these wastes into use that would be beneficial to mankind. This paper investigated the suitability and application of Groundnut Shell Ash (GSA) from Sokoto, Kebbi and Zamfara states as pozzolanic and siliceous partial mineral admixture in cement production for cheaper, improved strength and durability of mortar and concrete making in North-Western Nigeria. Six sandcrete blocks using groundnut shell ash (GSA) as partial cement admixture were investigated for each replacement levels of cement to GSA ration of 100/0%, 90/10%, 80/20%, 70/30%, 60/40%, and 50/50% with groundnut shell ash. The results indicated that the strength of the sandcrete decreases with increase of cement above 20% replacement.
Constraints faced by parasites during symbiosis – a review
Authors: Jafaru Suleiman , Tawakaltu Isyaku N. , Ebere Ukatu V. , Abubakar Dalijan, H.
Published: August 2023

Although parasitic infections remained major obstacles to economic progress and a better life in developing countries due to their ability to damage the host's tissues directly through metabolism, there are many constraints that parasites faced in the course of their interaction with the host. The present review was conducted to document the various challenges faced by the parasites while forming a symbiotic association with their host. Over sixty (60) articles were reviewed to get information on the constraints faced by the parasites of some organs such as skin, blood, gut, and liver. Examples of parasites living on the skin are lice, fleas, mites, ticks, Chilodonella, and Trichodinids, while identified constraints faced by parasites on the skin are: nutrients, life cycle stages, desiccation, water, and temperature; the Blood parasites include Trypanosomes, Schistosomes, and Plasmodium, among others. Some difficulties in the blood habitats faced by the parasites include host immune responses, life cycle stages, and drainage issues. Similarly, the gut parasites include E. histolytica, S. mansoni, A. lumbricoides, etc; and the challenges faced by parasites living in the gut include; pH, peristalsis, enzyme digestion, life cycle stages, and others. The present review highlighted and suggested that the hosts should take other necessary efforts that will prevent becoming exposed to parasites through busting their immunity, personal hygiene, and environmental sanitation, because lack of such preventive and control measures may favor parasites from always wine host using some mechanisms to overcome the mentioned constraints.
Permutation graphs with co-inversion on Γ1 - non-deranged permutations
Authors: Muhammad Ibrahim , Umar Abubakar
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we define permutation graphs on Γ1 -non-deranged permutations using the set of co-inversion as edge set, and the values of permutation as the set of vertices. From the graphs, we observed that diameter and radius of the graph of any ω1  is one, the graph of any ωp-1 ∈ GΓ1p simple, the graph of ω1  is completed and other properties of the graphs were also observed.