bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome Complement of Pomatoschistus marmoratus and Karyotype Evolution in Sand Gobies (Gobiidae: Gobionellinae)
Authors: Prazdnikov Denis V.
Published: March 2023

The family Gobiidae constitutes one of the most diverse groups among teleost fish; some of its species are objects of aquaculture and fisheries. Despite many years of cytogenetic studies, the chromosome complements of many species of gobies remain unknown, and the trends of karyotypic evolution are poorly understood. Here I describe a previously unstudied karyotype of a widespread species from the group of sand gobies (Pomatoschistus marmoratus) and analyze the trends of karyotypic evolution of this group in comparison with other taxonomic groups of gobies from the Atlantic-Mediterranean and Ponto-Caspian regions. For P. marmoratus, the diploid number is 2n=46; it consists of 11 pairs of submetacentric chromosomes, 12 pairs of subtelocentric and telocentric chromosomes (NF=68). A comparative karyological analysis showed that the main trend in the karyotypic evolution of sand gobies differs from that of other groups of gobies and is associated with an increase in the number of chromosomal arms as a result of chromosomal rearrangements leading to a change in the centromere position. The results obtained contribute to understanding the role of chromosomal rearrangements in the evolution of Gobiidae and are of interest for further cytogenetic studies of this large family of fish.
Twenty Polymorphic Microsatellite Markers for Trachurus trecae Cadenat, 1950 (Perciformes: Carangidae): An Important Fishing Genetic Resource Along the West African Atlantic Coast
Authors: Mota Kenneth Gabriel , Vaini Jussara Oliveira , Velho Filomena Vaz , Sardinha Maria de Lourdes , Hilsdorf Alexandre Wagner Silva
Published: March 2023

This study provides the first set of 20 species-specific microsatellite loci for genetic population studies of Trachurus trecae, an important marine fishing resource for the African Atlantic coast. Twenty microsatellite loci were developed by next generation sequencing and tested by genotyping 48 animals collected along the Angolan Atlantic coast. The number of alleles per locus varied from 6 to 19, while the expected and observed heterozygosities varied from 0.73 to 0.94 and 0.16 to 0.86, respectively. These microsatellites are a valuable tool for further genetics monitoring of this species.
Analysis of a nonuniform guiding structure by the adaptive finite‐difference and singular value decomposition methods
Authors: Tamandani Abdolshakoor , Alijani Mohammad G. H.
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a flexible finite‐difference technique for analyzing the nonuniform guiding structures. Because the voltage and current variations along the nonuniform structure differ for each segment, this work considers the adaptable discretization steps. This technique increases the accuracy of the final response. Moreover, by applying the singular value decomposition and discarding the nonprincipal singular values, an optimal lower rank approximation of the discretization matrix is obtained. The computational cost of the introduced method is significantly reduced using the optimal discretization matrix. Also, the proposed method can be extended to the nonuniform waveguides. The technique is verified by analyzing several practical transmission lines and waveguides with nonuniform profiles.
Poročila
Authors: Trobec Tajan , Stojilković Borut , Rogelj Boštjan , Koščak Marko , Potočnik Slavič Irma , Bobovnik Nejc , Lampič Barbara , Mikolič Sara , Ličen Nives , Cigale Dejan
Published: March 2023

Terensko proučevanje prsti

Geografsko raziskovanje slovenske Istre 1

Slovenske manjšine v sosednjih državah

Izvajanje pristopa LEADER/CLLD v Sloveniji

Slovenske srenje kot izročilo in priložnost

Mesec prostora 2022

Zaključek projekta na temo potencialno onesnaženih območij v Sloveniji – vzpostavitev baze ter izdelava modela za ocenjevanje potrebe po njihovi prednostni obravnavi

CELSA bilateralni raziskovalni projekt s KU Leuven na temo podpornega okolja za nove pristopnike v kmetijstvo

Modra fakulteta: odgovor Univerze v Ljubljani na dolgoživost

Trajnostni razvoj turizma – prakse in pristopi v Srbiji in Sloveniji
Značilnosti stacionarnega turističnega obiska v mestnih občinah v Sloveniji po letu 2000
Authors: Horvat Uroš
Published: March 2023

Po letu 2010 je prišlo do velikega porasta turističnega obiska v mestnih občinah, ki so postale najpomembnejša skupina turističnih občin (z okoli 29 % vseh prihodov turistov in 36 % prihodov tujih turistov v Sloveniji v letu 2019). Velik del rasti turističnega obiska je prispevala prav mestna občina Ljubljana, v kateri je bilo v letu 2019 zabeleženih 18 % vseh prihodov turistov in 23 % prihodov tujih turistov v Sloveniji. Pandemija covida-19 je najbolj prizadela prav mestne občine. Na koncu prispevek izpostavlja, da je na eni strani Ljubljana postala ena najhitreje rastočih in pomembnih turističnih destinacij v Srednji Evropi, na drugi strani pa se povečan turistični obisk Slovenije ni odrazil v obisku drugih mestnih občin, kot so npr. Celje, Murska Sobota, Velenje, Slovenj Gradec in Krško, ki močno zaostajajo tako po številu turistov kot po deležu tujih turistov. To očitno kaže na njihov relativno majhen turistični potencial kot tudi skromno razvitost turistične ponudbe in infrastrukture.
A preliminary study to evaluate the impact of pharmaceutical care services on clinical outcome and medication adherence in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients from Ethiopian perspective
Authors: Berhanu Billoro Bruke , Mohamed Abdi Abdikarem , Assefa Abero Wondimu , Bedassa Fite Abdi , Basgut Bilgen
Published: March 2023

Background: The role of clinical pharmacist in hospital settings of Ethiopia is still new and infant.

Objective: To evaluate the impact of pharmaceutical care on clinical outcome and medication adherence in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients.

Methods: A single cantered, pre-post interventional study design was carried out by enrolling 100 uncontrolled T2DM patients from March 1-August 30, 2020. The intervention package included assessment of pharmacological and non-pharmacological needs, counselling patients in person at the clinic, and providing educational materials.

Results: Of the 100 patients initially enrolled, 87(87%) completed the follow-up and included in the final data analysis. The intervention showed a decrease in average FBG, systolic blood pressure (SBP), low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) by 47.3 mg/dL, 22.6mmHg and 31.4mg/dL, while high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) exhibited significant increase by 13.4 mg/dL and 11.5 ml/min/1.73m2 respectively (p<0.0001). In addition, diastolic blood pressure, lipid values, kidney function parameters, and liver function parameters showed significant decrease in post intervention compared to pre-intervention (p<0.05). Medication adherence of the patients increased significantly at 6-month follow-up (p<0.001).

Conclusion: These results also suggest the benefits of integrating clinical pharmacist services in multidisciplinary healthcare teams and diabetes management in Ethiopia.

Keywords: Clinical pharmacy; Ethiopia; Medication adherence; pharmaceutical care services; T2DMv Wachemo University.
High incidence of acute kidney injury among patients with major trauma at Mulago National Referral Hospital, Uganda: risk factors and overall survival
Authors: Ssekitooleko Badru , Ssuna Bashir , Alice Nimanya Stella , Kiwewa Ronald , Ssewanyana Yasin , Nkonge Emmanuel , Bua Emmanuel , Wandabwa Joel , Ocen William , Nassanga Rosemary , Asiimwe Frank , Kalyesubula Robert
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and life-threatening complication of major trauma. Recognition is often delayed and management is frequently sub-optimal. We determined the incidence, risk factors and immediate outcomes of AKI in patients with major trauma at Mulago National Referral Hospital.Methods: This was a prospective study. We recruited adult patients with ISS of > 16. The KDIGO criteria was used to stage AKI. Serum creatinine was measured at baseline, 24, 48, 72 hours and on discharge from the study. Participants were followed up for seven days if not yet discharged. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done using modified Poisson regression with robust standard errors.Results: 224 patients were recruited. The incidence was 67/1000 persons per day. The risk factors were male sex, delayed presentation, hypoglycemia at admission, RR=1.62 (95%CI 1.24-2.12) and non-operative management RR=1.39 (95%CI 1.02-1.89). Out of the 62 patients that died, 34 (54.8%) had AKI. The overall mortality rate was 39.5 patients per thousand per day.Conclusion: There was a high incidence of AKI among patients with major trauma. Efforts to reduce morbidity and mortality should be prioritized.Keywords: AKI=Acute kidney injury; major trauma; ISS = injury severity score.
A reference interval study of serum 25-Hydroxyvitamin D among an African elderly population
Authors: Dorothy Nnakenyi Ifeyinwa , Ogbonnaya Agbo Ezra , Francis Nnakenyi Emeka , Chukwuma Wakwe Victor
Published: March 2023

Background: Elderly people have increased risk factors for low serum vitamin D levels, which is worsened among the black race. Therefore, elderly Africans constitute a reference population for vitamin D study.

Aim: The aim of this study was to establish the reference interval of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) among an African elderly population.

Methodology: This was a cross-sectional study of rural community dwellers in Enugu, south-eastern Nigeria aged 50 years and above, that satisfied the criteria of the reference population. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Venous blood was collected from reference individuals and serum 25(OH)D was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.Data were analysed using a non-parametric, bootstrap method to obtain the central 95% reference limits and 90% confidence intervals of the lower and upper limits of the reference interval respectively.

Results: One hundred and twenty-four (62 males and 62 females) participants were recruited. The median (25th -75th percentile) of serum 25(OH)D was 56 (35 – 71) ng/ml. The 2.5th percentile defined the lower reference limit and it was 21 ng/ml with 90% confidence interval (20 – 23) ng/ml; while the 97.5th percentile defined the upper reference limit and it was 93 ng/ml with 90% confidence interval (90 – 98) ng/ml.

Conclusion: The reference interval for serum 25(OH)D for the selected African elderly population in Enugu, Nigeria was determined to be 21 to 93 ng/ml.

Keywords: Bootstrap method; elderly; reference interval; vitamin D.
The association between headache presentation, normal examination and neuroimaging findings: a retrospective analysis of patients presenting to a tertiary referral centre
Authors: Moodley Sharania , I Bhigjee Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Background: There is a high worldwide burden of headaches. Selection of patients with headaches for neuroimaging, in the absence of traditional red flags, is imperative in guiding further management.

Objectives: Determine the yield of neuroimaging findings in patients with headache and normal examination; and potentially identifying additional red flags.

Methods: A retrospective consecutive chart review of patients with a main complaint of headaches and normal clinical examination were assessed at a tertiary hospital, over a 10-year period.

Results: Cohort consisted of 114 patients. Unexpected or normal variants found in 20.2% of patients (23/114) and 11.4% (13/114) required change in management. The absence of nausea and vomiting (p=0.009) and absence of sharp type headaches in unexpected or normal variants group (p=0.03) were statistically significant. There was a higher chance of an abnormal neuroimaging study in men and HIV seropositive patients.

Conclusions: Decision to neuroimage should be determined on an individual basis (demographic factors, history of headache and examination) as normal examination cannot preclude patients from unexpected findings on neuroimaging. Headache with nausea and vomiting in isolation may be associated with normal neuroimaging reflecting primary type headaches. Findings support a lower threshold to neuroimage men and HIV seropositive patients with headaches despite normal clinical examination.

Keywords: Headache; normal clinical examination; neuroimaging; headache red flags.
Self-reported oral hygiene practice and utilization of dental services by dental technology students in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Alade Grace , Bamigboye Sunday
Published: March 2023

Background: Dental technology students are Dental surgery technicians under training, trained to assist patients maintain good oral health. Hence, their oral hygiene is expected to be optimal.

Objective: To determine the oral self-care practices and pattern of utilization of dental services among dental technology students.

Material and Methods: This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study, consisting of 109 participants. The questionnaire had three sections. Section A had questions on sociodemographic, section B was on self-reported oral hygiene practices and section C was on pattern of dental service utilization. Statistical analysis was done using the SPSS version 20.0.

Results: The mean age was 23.66 years; age range was 18 – 42 years. There were 20 males and 89 females, 95.41% of the participants used toothbrushes and paste, while 4.59% used both chewing sticks and toothbrushes. 22% used horizontal/scrub method of toothbrushing, 10.1% used modified bass method, whereas 5.0% do not know which method of toothbrushing they use. 81.3% of the participants had visited the dentist previously for routine dental check-up while 10.71% visited for dental pain.

Conclusion: The self-reported oral hygiene practice of the dental technology students is commendable, however, further education on the importance of scaling and polishing is advocated.

Keywords: Dental technology; Dental utilization; Oral health practices.
Prevalence and correlates of antenatal depression at Chelstone First Level Hospital in Lusaka, Zambia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Maila Brian , Paul Ravi , Mayimbo Sebean , Kabwita Kelvin
Published: March 2023

Background: Antenatal depression is associated with long-term disability in both mothers and new-borns. Inadequate data and research can constrain resource allocation and exacerbate the condition's symptoms.Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of prenatal depression and the characteristics associated with it among women receiving prenatal care at Chelstone First Level Hospital in Lusaka.Method: A cross-sectional survey of 281 pregnant women receiving prenatal care at Chelstone First Level Hospital was conducted using systematic random sampling. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was used to assess participants' depression, and related data were collected using a structured, pretested, and interviewer-administered questionnaire.Results: Prenatal depression was identified in 26.3 percent of pregnant women surveyed (95 CI: 21% -32%), with antenatal depression being significantly more prevalent in women who did not have a satisfactory relationship with their partner/significant other (OR=1.70, 95CI: 1.40-3.10). Unemployment was found to be a risk factor for antenatal depression, with a 1.3 (95 CI:1.04-1.5) fold increased risk compared to employed women.

Conclusion: Depressive symptoms are common among pregnant women seeking antenatal care in primary care, and unemployment, as well as a lack of relationship satisfaction with the spouse/significant other, increases the risk of depression.

Keywords: Antenatal depression; associated factors; depression in pregnancy; depressive symptoms; depression; pregnancy; antenatal care.
Histopathological characterization of lung tumours at the University Teaching Hospital, Lusaka, Zambia: a pilot study
Authors: Jacqueline Tembo Mizinga , Kayamba Violet , Zulu Ephraim
Published: March 2023

Background: There are limited data on histological classification of primary lung cancer from sub-Saharan Africa. Furthermore, the time trends of age-truncated incidence rates of lung cancer by histological phenotype in Zambia are also unknown.

Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine histological types of lung tumours at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia.

Methods: This was a retrospective pilot study of lung tumour biopsies collected from the histopathology laboratory at the UTH over a period of one year. Tissue sections were stained and when seen, lung cancer was classified using standard histological methods. Data were analysed using IBM SSPS version 23.

Results: A total of 23 lung cancer tissues were retrieved. Histological types included eleven (47.8%) squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), six (26.1%) adenocarcinoma, two (8.7%) small cell carcinoma, two (8.7%) large cell carcinoma, 1 (4.3%) inflammatory myofibroblastic tumours and 1 (4.3%) pleural pulmonary blastoma. The results showed that the most affected age group was 60-69 years with most of the histological subtype in this age group being SCC. There was no statistically significant difference of histological subtypes across age groups, p=0.12.

Conclusion: This study has shown that the most commonly diagnosed type of primary lung cancer is squamous cell carcinoma.More data are needed to further corroborate this observation.

Keywords: Lung cancer; histopathology; Zambia.
A world free of malaria: It is time for Africa to actively champion and take leadership of elimination and eradication strategies
Authors: Ogbonnia Egwu Chinedu , Aloke Chinyere , Chukwu Jennifer , Agwu Anthony , Alum Esther , Tsamesidis Ioannis , M Aja Patrick , E Offor Christian , Ajuka Obasi Nwogo
Published: March 2023

The global burden of malaria seems unabated. Africa carries the greatest burden accounting for over 95% of the annual cases of malaria. For the vision of a world free of malaria by Global Technical Strategy to be achieved, Africa must take up the stakeholder’s role. It is therefore imperative that Africa rises up to the challenge of malaria and champion the fight against it. The fight against malaria may just be a futile or mere academic venture if Africans are not directly and fully involved. This work reviews the roles playable by Africans in order to curb the malaria in Africa and the world at large.
Accidents exposing blood to the staff of a hospital and university establishment in Algeria: Assessment and risk factors
Authors: Kheira Derkaoui Dalia , Dali-Ali Abdessamad , Abdelaziz Zouleykha , Midoun Nori , Zina Mohamed
Published: March 2023

Background: Accidents exposing to blood AEB represent real public health problem in healthcare establishments. The objective of our study was to estimate the frequency of AEB As at our establishment as well as the risk factors that determine their occurrence.

Patients and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted at a hospital university establishment over period from October 16 to December 3, 2018. The survey concerned accident exposing blood to the staff of our establishment. Data entry and analysis was carried out using Epi-Info software.

Results: A clear predominance of women was noted (79.2%) among the study population with a Sex ratio equal to 0.26. The average age was 27.7 ± 6.2 years.The frequency of exposure to AEB among hospital staff was 48.5%. Needlestick injuries were the most common accident (88.3%), followed by splashing blood or body fluids (51.7%), and cutting with a sharp object (10.0%). Among the risk factors significantly associated with the occurrence of AEB, we can cite the medical profession (OR = 3.94; p<0.001), the surgical specialty (OR = 3.3; p <0.01), the male sex (OR = 3.7; p <0.01). Likewise, risk of AEB increased significantly with age (p <0.01) and professional seniority (p <0.02).

Keywords: Accidents exposing blood; hospital staff; Algeria.
Incidence of first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure and its predictors among children admitted to Debre Tabor Referral Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: institution based cross-sectional clinical study
Authors: Munye Aytenew Tigabu , Mesfin Belay Demeke , Alebachew Bayih Wubet , Minuye Birhane Binyam , Yeshambel Alemu Abebaw
Published: March 2023

Background: When the first piercing is failed to function, repeated puncturing imposes pain, complications, and delays the timeliness of pediatric care. In spite of the above challenges, incidence and predictors of first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure are under-investigated in the study area and the nation at large.Objective: This study aimed to determine the incidence of first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure and its predictors among children.Methods: Institution-based cross-sectional study design was conducted, and a total of 422 children were included in the study.The study participants were selected using a simple random sampling technique. The data were collected by direct observation and interviewer-administered questionnaire. Stata version 14 was used for analysis, and finally, the association was declared using AOR at a 95% confidence level at p≤0.05.Results: The incidence of first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure rate was found to be 34.83% (132). Besides, self-payment funding, vein visibility with a tourniquet, forearm site, vein scope use, and child age of 24-59 months old were significantly associated with first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure.Conclusion: Generally, self-payment funding, vein visibility with a tourniquet, forearm site, vein scope use, and child age of 24-59 months old were independent predictors of first attempt peripheral intravenous cannulation failure.

Keywords: Peripheral IV cannulation; predictors; cross-sectional study
MicroRNA-186 suppresses cell proliferation and metastasis in bladder cancer
Authors: Feng Liang Jun , Hua Li Pei , Zhu Yong , Shuai Zheng Shuai , Wei Liu Jing , Qiang Song Shi
Published: March 2023

Purpose: Bladder cancer (BCa) is a common malignancy in the urinary system. This study aims to explore the role of miR-186 in BCa tumorigenesis.

Methods: The expression of miR-186 and ADAMTS12 in clinical BCa tissues and cell lines was detected. BCa cell lines T24, 5637 and EJ were used to transfect miR-186 mimics or inhibitors. Luciferase reporter gene detection confirmed the correlation between miR-186 and ADAMTS12. MTT method and flow cytometry were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis. Cell migration and invasion ability was detected by transwell assay. The protein level of ADAMTS12, β-catenin, GSK-3β and p-GSK-3β was determined using western blot analysis.

Results: MiR-186 was negatively correlated with the expression of ADAMTS12 in BCa tissues. Further research confirmed that ADAMTS12 is the direct target of miR-186. In addition, overexpression of miR-186 down-regulated the expression of ADAMTS12,inhibiting cell viability and apoptosis, while knockout of miR-186 led to the opposite result. miR-186 also inhibits the phosphorylation of GSK-3 β and β-catenin without changing the total GSK-3β level. Our study shows that miR-186 has a negative regulatory effecton the expression of ADAMTS12 in clinical specimens and in vitro. miR-186 can inhibit the proliferation and invasion of BCa cells.

Conclusions: miR-186 has the potential to be used as a biomarker in the early detection of BCa.

Keywords: Purpose: Bladder cancer (BCa) is a common malignancy in the urinary system. This study aims to explore the role of miR-186 in BCatumorigenesis.Methods: The expression of miR-186 and ADAMTS12 in clinical BCa tissues and cell lines was detected. BCa cell lines T24, 5637 andEJ were used to transfect miR-186 mimics or inhibitors. Luciferase reporter gene detection confirmed the correlation between miR-186 and ADAMTS12. MTT method and flow cytometry were used to detect cell viability and apoptosis. Cell migration and invasionability was detected by transwell assay. The protein level of ADAMTS12, β-catenin, GSK-3β and p-GSK-3β was determined usingwestern blot analysis.Results: MiR-186 was negatively correlated with the expression of ADAMTS12 in BCa tissues. Further research confirmed thatADAMTS12 is the direct target of miR-186. In addition, overexpression of miR-186 down-regulated the expression of ADAMTS12,inhibiting cell viability and apoptosis, while knockout of miR-186 led to the opposite result. miR-186 also inhibits the phosphorylationof GSK-3 β and β-catenin without changing the total GSK-3β level. Our study shows that miR-186 has a negative regulatory effecton the expression of ADAMTS12 in clinical specimens and in vitro. miR-186 can inhibit the proliferation and invasion of BCa cells.Conclusions: miR-186 has the potential to be used as a biomarker in the early detection of BCa.Keywords: miR-186; ADAMTS12; bladder cancer; proliferation; metastasis biomarker.
Les mécanismes de répartition des risques dans les partenariats public-privé en Algérie
Authors: MEZHOUDA Abdelmalik , Telidji Salim , Nafa Aziz , Tidjani Chamseddine , Benkassir Imèn
Published: March 2023

Les Partenariats Public-Privé (PPP) offrent une importante opportunité aux pouvoirs publics de transférer les risques des grands projets publics au secteur privé et aux usagers des services publics. Cependant, la réussite du partenariat est compromise par l’optimisation de la répartition des risques entre les parties contractantes. Considérant ce postulat, la présente recherche se propose d’explorer les pratiques de répartition des risques mises en place dans un échantillon de PPP en Algérie. En adoptant une approche qualitative, l’étude a porté sur les PPP contractés dans le secteur des transports, des ressources en eau et de l’énergie, en l’occurrence le port de Bejaia, les stations de dessalement de l’eau de mer, la gestion de l’eau potable (SEAAL) et le métro d’Alger. Les résultats de cette recherche nous ont permis de mettre en évidence la performance quantitative comme élément fédérateur pour l’ensemble des partenariats et ce, dans l’objectif de combler le déficit enregistré dans le service public visé par le contrat. En outre, la répartition des risques n’a pas fait l’objet de négociation ou de cadrage contractuel clair, à l’exception du projet des stations de dessalement de l’eau de mer où une matrice détaillée d’allocation des risques, présents et futurs inhérents aux projets, a été élaborée et adoptée par les partenaires.
The effectiveness of exchange rate regimes in controlling inflation: an econometric study using dynamic threshold panel models (Arabic)
Authors: Zaimen Brahim , Tabri Saed
Published: March 2023

This paper aims primarily at the economic measurement of the effect of exchange rate regimes on domestic inflation, in addition to other explanatory variables such as money supply and the inflation lags, imported inflation, wherein this latter is supposed to have a non-linear effect that varies according to the trade openness, the growth rate of the gross domestic product, and the oil price. We selected for the analysis the period from 1999 to 2019; By applying the Dynamic Panel Threshold models to a sample of 19 countries in the Middle East and North African region in addition to Turkey, Pakistan and Azerbaijan. The obtained results revealed that the exchange rate regimes have an important role in determining the levels of inflation, and the nature of relationship in the study sample doesn’t differ from what is in the developing countries, but it differs from the emerging and developed countries according to previous studies, where the fixed regimes achieved the best performance in term of inflation, followed by the intermediate and then the floating. Moreover, the imported inflation has a positive effect on the domestic, the trade openness and GDP incite the increase of this effect, the oil price is also important in noting the non-linearity of this relationship.
Effect of client-centered counselling therapy in reducing drug addiction among youths in Azare Metropolis
Authors: Alhaji Danladi , Abubakar U. Haruna , Sani Abdulra’uf , Musa B. Sani
Published: March 2023

This study was carried out to determine the effectiveness of Client-centered counselling therapy in modifying drug addiction attitudes among youths in Azare Metropolis, Bauchi State. The objective of the study is to determine whether there is difference attitude of those exposed to treatment and those who were not. The research design adopted for this study was quasi-experimental pre-test-post-test control group design. The participants in the study comprised 50 drug addict youths) made up of 40 male and 10 women between the ages of 18-30, who were selected using purposive sampling technique in the study area. The instruments used for data collection are: (1) Drug Addiction Screening Scale (DASS), and Drug Attitude Scale (DAS). Hypotheses formulated tested, the significant difference of the pre and post-test attitudes of the respondents was determined. There were two groups one experimental and the other was control group. The analyses of data were done using independent t-test by pairing pre-test scores. The results show that was significant difference in the post-test scores on the reasons why youths were addicted to drugs? All the items mean score were above the decision mean. There was significant difference in the post-test scores on the effectiveness of client-centered therapy in modifying drug attitude among youths in the study area. There was significant difference in the mean of pre-test and post-test scores on the attitude of youths towards addiction related to client-centered therapy on experimental group only. From the findings reported in this study we conclude that, client-centered therapy is effective in reducing drug addiction attitude among youths in Azare Metropolis. It was recommended that, Government should provide community counselling unit in order to provide services to Youths within the community whose their mentality always is to use drugs in order to feel normal, get away with certain thoughts, or feeling, and to look smart, counsellors should make constant utilization of Client-centered counselling therapy in treatment of substance abuse, in the school and society, and counsellors should make use of therapy when modifying behaviour of youths on substances.
Exploring the effect of teaching methods on development of agricultural skills for food security: Case study of colleges of education in North-East Region, Nigeria
Authors: Umar M. Abba , Daniel I.
Published: March 2023

The study investigated teaching methods employed by agriculture lecturers in federal and state-owned colleges of education and its effect on students’ skills development for food security. Descriptive survey design was employed on a target population of 4,996 students and 84 agriculture lecturers. The actual sample size was 393 students and 77 agriculture lecturers. Data was collected using Agricultural Teachers 'Interview Timetable and Students' Focus Group Conversation Guide. The study found that discussion approach provides ways for the teacher to learn from the students and promote the application of the educational objectives. It equally revealed that demonstration method was the most significant approach to agricultural teaching that develops skills for food security. The views of the students suggest that discussion and demonstration are the most effective approaches to developing food security skills, but the most widely used method was lecturing.
Relationship between teachers’ work load and students’ academic performance in senior secondary schools in Irepodun Local Government, Kwara State, Nigeria.
Authors: Ogundare A. Adebimpe , Ambode A. Benard , Babalola F. Emmanuel
Published: March 2023

The study examined the relationship between workload of teachers and academic performance of students in some selected secondary schools in Irepodun Local Government. The study adopted correlational research design. One hundred and twenty respondents were picked at random from twelve secondary schools (six public schools and six private schools). The data was collected from respondents via questionnaire and Achievement Test in Biology. Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) was used to evaluate the data collected between private and public secondary schools; Pearson's Product Moment Correlation and t-test Analysis were used to determine the impact of instructors' workload on students' academic achievement. According to the findings, there was a strong negative relationship between teacher workload and student academic performance. It was further discovered that there was a considerable disparity between students’ academic performance in public and private secondary schools. The findings also suggested that science teachers (Including biology) should only teach in accordance with the directive of 1:35 teacher-students ratio by National Policy of Education, as a result, teachers will be able to manage with the workload's stress. It was also recommended that government and other proprietors of Kwara state under the education ministry should employ teachers adequately as likely to conquer the problem in public schools and also to advance the value of teaching-learning development in secondary schools.
Effect of blended learning on teaching large classes in Faculty of Education University of Maiduguri
Authors: Babakura Mamman , Khashiyah Abdulfattah , Kaumi Umara , Ahmed Jime , Habib M. A. , Kaltum Ali , Tahiru Zanna
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to examine the effect of blended learning on the teaching and learning large classes in among ore-service teachers in a Nigerian University. The study adopted Ex-Post Factor design to determine the effect of blended learning on teaching a large class size among pre-service teachers at the University of Maiduguri. A purposive sampling technique was to draw a sample of 1,608 from the two separates test. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean and median) and an independent sample t-test to analyzed the results. The results of the study show that there is a significant difference in the mean scores of pre-service teachers taught through blended learning and those taught with the conventional approach in large classes. Similarly, there is not much difference between the mean scores of male and female pre-service teachers taught with blended learning in a large class. The findings of the study revealed that blended learning enhances the management of large classes and improve pre-service teachers’ achievement test. Therefore, blended learning integrated pedagogy is the effective strategy to manage large classrooms. The study recommends that there is a need to deploy teachers with adequate skills of handling large classes through the application of blended learning instructional strategies. Also, lecturers should be trained to develop skills and master the arts of integrating technology into their classroom teaching and management of classrooms with large population.
Retroperitoneal pelvic packing for an abdominopelvic gunshot injury
Authors: Akim Koma
Published: March 2023

The objective of the study is to demonstrate the significance of damage control surgery in saving lives and possibly preventing permanent disability in a  resource poor environment. This is because in resource limited settings, advanced treatment modalities such as external fixation and angiography with  embolization are not available. Moreover, besides being expensive, these treatment methods for pelvic fractures require training and skills to perform.  The retroperitoneal pelvic packing is easy to learn and, thus can be used in an emergency to save lives and prevent long-term problems in patients who  have sustained life threatening pelvic injuries and severe haemorrhage. Therefore, specialist surgeons, especially those working in low- and  middle income countries, should be encouraged to learn and consider retroperitoneal pelvic packing as a stabilization and definitive treatment in some  cases of pelvic fractures.
Reflections from the first South Sudan malaria conference
Authors: Okech Onyango
Published: March 2023

No Abstract.
Effects of long non-coding RNA MALAT1-targeting miR-570-3p and miR-34a on the invasion, proliferation, and apoptosis of human retinoblastoma cells
Authors: Shi Dejing , Feng Xiuhong , Ding Xuchen
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To investigate the expression of lncRNA MALAT1-targeting miR-570-3p and miR-34a and its effects on the invasion, proliferation, and apoptosis of human retinoblastoma cells.

Methods: MiR-34a, miR-570-3p, and IncRNA MALAT1 in a human normal retinal vascular endothelial cell line (ACBRI-181), human retinoblastoma cell line (SO-Rb50), human normal retinal tissue and human retinoblastoma tissue were determined. Luciferase assay was used to verify the targeting relationship between LncRNA MALAT1 and miR-570-3p and miR-34a. while cell invasion, cell apoptosis and cell proliferation were assessed by Transwell assay, flow cytometry, and tumor pellet-forming assay, respectively.

Results: LncRNA MALAT1 in SO-Rb50 cell line and human retinoblastoma tissue line were significantly up-regulated, while the expression levels of miR-34a and miR-570-3p were significantly down-regulated (p < 0.05). Luciferase assay results showed that lncRNA MALAT1 targeted miR-570-3p and miR-34a. The invasion and proliferation of SO-Rb50 cells in the miR-570-3p inhibitor and miR-34a inhibitor groups were significantly increased, while the apoptosis of SO-Rb50 cells was significantly decreased (p < 0.05). However, the invasion and proliferation of SO-Rb50 cells in sh-MALAT1 group were significantly decreased, while apoptosis significantly increased. However, compared with sh-MALAT1 group alone, the invasion and proliferation of SO-Rb50 cells in co-transfected sh-MALAT1+miR-570-3p inhibitor + miR-34a inhibitor group w significantly increased, but apoptosis significantly decreased (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: LncRNA MALAT1 negatively regulates miR-570-3p and miR-34a to promote the invasion and proliferation of human retinoblastoma SO-Rb50 cells and inhibit apoptosis. These findings may be of significance in developing suitable therapies for human retinoblastoma
Zhao’s Weitiao No 3 inhibits tumor growth in gastric cancer-bearing nude mice
Authors: Pan Qi , Xiang Pei , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhao Jingfang
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of Zhao’s Weitiao No. 3 (ZW3) on the progression of gastric cancer (GC) in mice, and to determine its effects on the proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer tissues.

Methods: Tumor growth in vivo was used to determine the effect of ZW3 (15, 30, and 60 mg/kg) on GC growth in mice. Immunohistochemical and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling assays were conducted to evaluate the effects of ZW3 on the proliferation and apoptosis of mouse GC tissues, while quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and immunoblot assays were conducted to determine its effects on GC cell apoptosis.

Results: ZW3 inhibited tumor growth in tumor-bearing mice, suppressed the expression of proliferation-related proteins (p < 0.001), increased the apoptosis of tumor cells in tumor-bearing mice (p < 0.001), and suppressed the expression of apoptosis-related proteins in mouse tumor tissues (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Thus, ZW3 is a potential drug for the management of GC. However, further investigations are required to determine its full potential
Comparative evaluation of Polygel Dual and commonly used alginate-antacid formulations (ACIDUAL Study)
Authors: Tshiamala KK Pascal , Oyeleke Ganiyat , Nsokolo Bright , Aninagyei Felix , Sirwani Rajesh , Nair Sunil
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To compare Polygel Dual (PD) and four marketed alginate-antacid combination products, with respect to raft formation and antacid properties.

Methods: The pharmacopeial tests used were selected based on demonstrable performance of raft-forming potential, including speed and thickness, for all selected products. Evidence-based methods were used to determine the antacid effects in terms of acid-neutralizing capacity and increase in pH.

Results: Raft-forming ability was demonstrated by three products, with AF-4 and PD outperforming in speed and thickness. PD, AF-1 and AF-2 exhibited superior antacid properties. However, PD was the only product that demonstrated superior performance with respect to raft-formation and antacid potential. Raft-forming capacity was exhibited by 3 out of 5 products, viz, PD, AF-1 and AF-4. Raft formation was faster in AF-4 (15 s), followed by in PD (25 s). Similarly, raft thickness (14.79 mm) was highest in AF-4, followed by (4.39 mm) in PD. Preliminary antacid test results showed that AF-4 failed to raise pH above 3.5, but PD raised pH to 5.86, while AF-1 raised pH to 5.88. Similarly, periodic test analysis revealed that PD maintained pH above 7 for the entire test duration of 210 min, whereas AF-4 failed to raise pH to 7 during the test period.

Conclusion: Polygel dual (PD) demonstrates desirable raft-forming potential and antacid properties. Moreover, it effectively raises pH and maintains it for longer duration than any of the other antacid products. Thus, PD may be considered a potentially effective treatment for acid-reflux problems. However, this claim should be validated in suitable clinical trials.
Screening of therapeutic potentials of proprioceptive exercises and topical glucosamine sulfate on pain and functional disability in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Arif Hifza , Arif Nimra , Kanwal Noshaba , Tahir Humera , Akmal Izhaan , Munawar Shaukat Hussain , Iqbal Muhammad Omer
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To compare the effects of proprioceptive exercises and topical glucosamine sulfate on knee osteoarthritis in terms of reducing pain and functional disability.

Methods: A single-blinded randomized clinical trial (IRCT20220115053712N1) was conducted at Muhammad Physical Therapy Clinic and Rehabilitation Center, Multan, Pakistan, from November 2021 to April 2022. Eighty-four patients enrolled and were randomized into two groups; patients in Group A were treated with proprioceptive exercises while those in Group B were treated with topical glucosamine sulfate. The Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale were used to measure pain and functional activities at baseline, 9th and 18th sessions.

Results: The results showed that both interventions were effective, but more in Group A (p < 0.05). Group A also showed highly significant improvement in relieving the pains associated with osteoarthritis when compared to Group B (p ≤ 0.001).

Conclusion: Proprioceptive exercises are more efficient than topical glucosamine sulfate for managing knee osteoarthritis, improving functional outcomes and lowering pain intensity.
Effectiveness of the external application of Jidesheng snake tablets, trehalose glycerin mud, and hydroquinone cream in the treatment of melisma
Authors: Chen Dan , Chen Yili , Zhao Leping , Xiao Zhongxiang , Wang Linze
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To determine the effectiveness of the external application of Jidesheng snake tablets, trehalose glycerin mud, and hydroquinone cream in the treatment of melasma.

Methods: The study was conducted on 60 patients with melasma who were treated in the Affiliated Yueqing Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University between January 1, 2021, and January 31, 2022. The patients were randomly but equally assigned to two groups (study and control). The study group received Jidesheng snake medicine, glycerin, boiled water, and trehalose medicinal mud at a 10:4:2:1 combination ratio, applied to the affected parts 12 h a day for 2 - 4 weeks. After cleansing the skin, hydroquinone cream was applied to the affected area. On the other hand, the control group was treated with a similar formulation but without trehalose medicinal mud in the ratio of 10:4:2. Changes in facial melasma of the patients were observed, while the satisfaction, clinical efficacy, incidence of adverse reactions, and recurrence rate were monitored.

Results: Patients in the study group were more satisfied with the treatment than those in the control group (90 vs. 73.3 %, p < 0.05). Furthermore, treatment effectiveness was significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (93.3 vs. 70 %, p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The external application of Jidesheng medicine + glycerin + cold boiled water + trehalose is a reliable therapeutic strategy for the management of patients with melasma. It is more cost-effective, less prone to adverse reactions, and is associated with a low recurrence rate and high satisfaction.
Efficacy of the combination of carbamazepine and pulsed-radiofrequency in the treatment of trigeminal neuralgia
Authors: Liu Yan , Zhou Peiyun
Published: March 2023

Purpose: To investigate the effect of the combination of carbamazepine and pulsed-radiofrequency therapy on trigeminal neuralgia (TN) and changes in inflammation status in vivo.

Methods: Ninety-seven trigeminal neuralgia patients treated in Wuhan Fourth Hospital from January 2018 to January 2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Forty-five patients treated with pulsed-radiofrequency therapy alone were designated as the control group (CG), while 52 who underwent carbamazepine and pulse-radiofrequency combination therapy were enrolled in the study group (SG). Changes in serum inflammatory factors, viz, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-1β, and tumor necrosis factor α (TNF-α), were recorded before and after treatment. Similarly, changes in pain visual analog scale (VAS) score, quality of life score, and oxidative stress index were assessed before and after treatment; so also were changes in clinical efficacy and incidence of adverse reactions.

Results: After treatment, VAS score, and levels of IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α in SG were lower than those in CG, while the score of quality of life in SG was higher (p < 0.05). The clinical efficacy of SG was higher than that of CG, but there was no significant difference in incidence of adverse reactions (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: The therapeutic combination of carbamazepine and pulsed-radiofrequency is more effective than pulsed-radiofrequency alone in the short-term treatment of TN in patients. It produces better relief of pain, reduces inflammation and improves patients’ quality of life. However, it does not affect the incidence of adverse reactions.
Effect of low molecular weight heparin and ulinastatin as a combined therapy on soluble myeloid cell expression and intestinal mucosal function in patients with severe pancreatitis
Authors: Qian Dong , Luan Xinyuan , Zhang Yanan
Published: March 2023

In the earlier published article, the ethical approval number of the Methods’ section was wrongly provided by the authors. The correct approval number should be: NKYY_YWKT_IRB_2021_009_01.
New citation: Qian D, Luan X, Zhang Y. Effect of low molecular weight heparin and ulinastatin as a combined therapy on soluble myeloid cell expression and intestinal mucosal function in patients with severe pancreatitis. Trop J Pharm Res 2022; 21(7):1515-1521 doi: 10.4314/tjpr.v21i7.23 Erratum: 2022; 21(11): 2493 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/tjpr.v 21i11.32
Earlier citation: Qian D, Luan X, Zhang Y. Effect of low molecular weight heparin and ulinastatin as a combined therapy on soluble myeloid cell expression and intestinal mucosal function in patients with severe pancreatitis. Trop J Pharm Res 2022; 21(7):1515-1521 doi: 10.4314/tjpr.v21i7.23