bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Control of Civil Engineering Projects Based on Deep Learning and Building Information Modeling
Authors: Wang Fang , Chen Liangqiong
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study is to enhance the quality of civil engineering project management and optimize project control in order to ensure adequate construction resources and facilitate seamless project progression. By integrating building information modeling (BIM) technology with deep learning techniques, optimal control was examined at various stages of civil engineering project management. A simulation test was performed on a selected gymnasium engineering project, focusing on cost and resource control aspects. The findings revealed that, as the project advanced, the planned cost exceeded the actual cost by nearly 100,000 yuan in the final stage. The combination of BIM technology and deep learning model prediction substantially reduced the cost and material budgets of the engineering project. Data analysis showed that the average positioning error of the convolutional neural network algorithm for the project model was below 2%.
Movement Control Order (MCO) - A Viable Legal Mechanism in the Management of COVID-19 Pandemic in Malaysia?
Authors: Said Suzana Muhamad , Aman Aini , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Dastane Omkar
Published: August 2023

COVID-19 has caused a global health disaster accompanied by economic and social unpredictability. This study evaluates the legislative measures implemented in Malaysia throughout Phases 1 through 7 of the Movement Control Order in an effort to battle the pandemic and stem its spread. The narrative review applies a socio-legal analysis with reference to primary sources, including Malaysian legal documents and legislation. Findings suggest that the law complements other preventive efforts implemented by the government to break the chain of virus transmission, especially the Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases Act of 1988. This study illustrates that the public interest must trump individual rights in order to not only respond to this crisis, but also recover and prosper in the fight against the pandemic. In addition, it is recommended that enforcing a clearer set of international MCO laws within regional security cooperation will contribute to the development of a stronger global community with a shared future, as well as promote international law and neighborhood diplomacy.
What Will It Take to Make Healthcare Safer?
Authors: Bates David W. , Folcarellli Patricia , Mort Elizabet
Published: August 2023

Patients are harmed too often by the care they receive today. The authors discuss a recent large study of harm, its results in terms of harm incidence, and distribution, and compare these with prior studies of harm in hospitals. The authors suggest what these results imply in terms of improving the safety of care, and how to accelerate it. They go over the roles of boards, and leadership including the c-suite. They discuss metrics and achieving sustainable results. They also evaluate the role of culture, and the future potential of artificial intelligence to improve safety. Overall, there is great room for improvement, but achieving it will require addressing all these areas.
Point-of-Care Ultrasonography in the Intensive Care Unit for the Obstetric Patient
Authors: Lammers Stephen , Dolin Cara D.
Published: August 2023

Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) is a tool that can be used to evaluate critically ill obstetric patients, in the same way as for nonpregnant patients. With knowledge of the physiology and anatomical changes of pregnancy, POCUS can provide meaningful information to help guide clinical management. A POCUS cardiothoracic evaluation for left and right ventricular function, pulmonary edema, pleural effusion, and pneumothorax can be performed in pregnancy. A Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma examination in pregnancy is performed similarly to that in nonpregnant patients, and the information obtained can guide decision-making regarding operative versus nonoperative management of trauma. POCUS is also used to glean important obstetric information in the setting of critical illness and trauma, such as fetal status, gestational age, and placental location. These obstetric evaluations should be performed rapidly to minimize delay and enable pregnant patients to receive the same care for critical illness and trauma as nonpregnant patients.
Reducing maternal deaths in Sri Lanka: radical changes are needed
Authors: Senanayake Hemantha , Ratnayake Chathura
Published: August 2023

No Abstract available
Determinants of sun exposure time among Sri Lankan pregnant women
Authors: Kaneshapillai Anusha , Hettiaratchi Usha , Prathapan Shamini , Liyanage Guwani
Published: August 2023

Introduction:  Sun exposure becomes extremely important for primary prevention of vitamin D deficiency (VDD) for high-risk populations who do not receive supplemental vitamin D. The present study investigated the determinants of sun exposure time and its association to vitamin D among Sri Lankan pregnant women in a primary health care population from the Colombo District.Methods: This is part of a cross-sectional study of 383 third trimester pregnant mothers from primary healthcare (PHC) units in the Colombo District in Western Sri Lanka. A newly developed interviewer-administrated questionnaire was used as the main study instrument. In addition, a venous blood sample was collected for 25(OH)D levels. The univariate and multivariate analysis examined the determinants of sun exposure time. One-way ANOVA and Tukey post hoc test described the association between sun exposure time and vitamin D level.Results: Most (56.9%) had <30 minutes of sun exposure per day. Low sun exposure time observed with Moor ethnicity (OR:7.45, 95% CI: 3.764, 14.741, p<0.001), lower parity (OR:0.53, 95%CI: 0.369, 0.753, p<0.001) and higher educational level (OR: 3.10, 95% CI: 1.606, 5.976, p=0.001). Women who spent ≥30 minutes exposed to sun between 9am to 3pm [F(3,373)=10.1, p<0.001] had higher vitamin D levels.Conclusions: Educational level, parity, and ethnicity are important determinants of sun exposure time. A significantly lower serum vitamin D is demonstrated in pregnant women with exposure time <30 minutes. This evidence will allow health personnel to individualize the advice to improve vitamin D-related sun exposure behaviour in this population who are not routinely supplemented with vitamin D.
Medication transcription errors at a tertiary healthcare facility in Uva province, Sri Lanka: A retrospective study
Authors: Ratnapala Udana Subodhika , Wijesekara Hiranya , Illanganthilaka Anuradha , Dissanayaka Duminda , Hanwellage Kapila , Liyanage Chaminda , Halahakoon Dhammika , Hameed Shazar , Pathirathna Hirantha , Siriwardhana Ranjith
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Medication transcription is an error-prone process in healthcare settings with paper-based documentation. However, it is often preventable. In Sri Lanka, a uniform medication chart is not currently in use.Objectives: To describe transcription errors with the aim of designing a standardized drug chart to minimize the transcription errors at a tertiary care facility in Uva province, Sri LankaMethods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in selected units at Provincial General Hospital, Badulla. All discharged patients after a minimum of 72 hours hospital stay were included. The drug charts of bedhead tickets were scrutinized for transcription errors.Results: At the time of study, four types of charts were in use. In total 272 drug charts, the median number of drugs was 9 (Interquartile range - IQR 6-12). Median length of patient’s stay was 4 days (IQR 3-6). We encountered at least one transcription error of medication details in 88.6% charts.  Amongst, medication name transcription error was the most common (220, 80.9%) followed by route (114, 41.9%) and frequency errors (70, 25.7%). During transcribing drug names, majority of charts had spelling errors (203, 74.6%). Although there was a statistically significant association between number of prescribed drugs and presence of at least one medication transcription error (p<.001), there was no significant association to number of days of patient stay (p=.99).Conclusion: The selected center has a significantly high prevalence of medication transcription errors. Hence, introducing a uniform medication administration chart is encouraged to minimize the opportunities for adverse patient outcomes.
Delayed breast cellulitis post nipple-sparing mastectomy surgery
Authors: Cioppa Vittoria , Rubegni Pietro , De Piano Ernesto
Published: August 2023

Not available
Smad2/3 signaling involved in urotensin II-induced phenotypic differentiation, collagen synthesis and migration of rat aortic adventitial fibroblasts
Authors: Lin Weizhao , Yang Xu , Zheng Fan , Yang Jianshe , Zhang Yonggang
Published: August 2023

Objective. To investigate whether Smad2/3 signaling is involved in urotensin II (UII) induced activation of aortic adventitial fibroblasts. Materials and Methods. Growth-arrested adventitial fibroblasts were stimulated with UII in the presence or absence of urotensin II receptor (UT) antagonist SB710411 or transfected with Smad2/3 small inhibitory RNA (siRNA). UII stimulated Smad2/3 phosphorylation, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and collagen I expression and migration of adventitial fibroblasts were evaluated by western blot analysis, real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunofluorescence, ELISA, and transwell migration assay, respectively. Results. In cultured adventitial fibroblasts, UII time- and dose-dependently stimulated Smad2/3 protein phosphorylation, with maximal effect at 10-8 mol/l (increased by 147.2%, P<0.001). UII stimulated Smad2/3 upregulation and nuclear translocation. SB710411 significantly inhibited these effects. In addition, UII potently induced α-SMA and procollagen 1 protein or mRNA expression (P<0.01), which were completely blocked by Smad2 (decreased by 75.1%, 54.2% in protein, and by 73.3% and 38.2% in mRNA, respectively, P<0.01) or Smad3 siRNA (decreased by 80.3% and 47.0% in protein, and by 72.3% and 47.7% in mRNA, respectively, P<0.01). Meanwhile, Smad2 or smad3 siRNA significantly inhibited the UII-induced collagen 1 secretion and cell migration. Conclusions. UII may stimulate adventitial-fibroblast phenotype conversion, migration, and collagen I synthesis via phosphorylated-Smad2/3 signal transduction pathways.
PRELIMINARY STUDY OF SCD14 AND SCD163 AS PREDICTORS OF DISEASE SEVERITY AND ICU ADMISSION IN COVID-19: RELATION TO HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS, BLOOD MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES AND INFLAMMATORY BIOMARKERS
Authors: Attia Hend
Published: August 2023

Abstract.Background and Objectives: Research supports the role of monocyte/macrophage activation in COVID-19 immunopathology. This study aimed to evaluate sCD14 and sCD163 -the monocyte activation markers -and to investigate their relation to hematological parameters and blood morphology in COVID-19 infection. Methods: This is a case-control study that included 70 COVID-19 patients. Patients were subdivided into two groups: 23 severely diseased ICU-admitted patients and another group of 47 non-ICU-admitted patients. sCD163 and sCD14 levels were determined using ELISA.Results: sCD163 and sCD14 showed significantly higher levels in sera of patients compared to the control group, with significantly higher levels of sCD163 in ICU-admitted patients than non-ICU admitted patients. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated the usefulness of sCD163 with a cut-off value of 734 ng/mL as a potential marker to discriminate between ICU and non-ICU admitted COVID-19 patients (sensitivity of 81.16%; specificity of 96.67% and positive predictive value of 98% with area under the curve of 0.930). sCD163 levels showed a positive correlation with total white blood cells, absolute neutrophilic count, Neutrophil/Lymphocyte ratio, and a negative correlation with platelet count. sCD14 levels positively correlated with D-dimer values associated with a shift to the left and neutrophilic toxic granulations in blood morphology. Conclusion: High sCD163 and sCD14 levels, hematological parameters, and blood morphology reflect monocyte activation in COVID-19 infection. sCD163 is a potential marker of disease severity. These findings support further study of therapeutics targeting macrophage activity in COVID-19 patients with high sCD163 levels.
Deceleration Profiles Between the Penultimate and Final Steps of Planned and Reactive Side-Step Cutting
Authors: Mulligan Colin M.S. , Johnson Samuel T. , Pollard Christine D. , Hannigan Kim S. , Athanasiadis Dimitrios , Norcross Marc F.
Published: August 2023

Context

Noncontact anterior cruciate ligament injury often occurs during rapid deceleration and change-of-direction maneuvers. These activities require an athlete to generate braking forces to slow down the center of mass and change direction in a dynamic environment. During preplanned cutting, athletes can use the penultimate step for braking before changing direction, resulting in less braking demand during the final step. During reactive cutting, athletes use different preparatory movement strategies during the penultimate step when planning time is limited. However, possible differences in the deceleration profile between the penultimate and final steps of preplanned and reactive side-step cuts remain unknown.

Objective

To comprehensively evaluate deceleration during the penultimate and final steps of preplanned and reactive cutting.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Laboratory.

Patients or Other Participants

Thirty-six women (age = 20.9 ± 1.7 years, height = 1.66 ± 0.07 m, mass = 62.4 ± 8.7 kg).

Intervention

Participants completed 90° side-step cutting maneuvers under preplanned and reactive conditions.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Approach velocity, velocity at initial contact, and cutting angle were compared between conditions. Stance time, deceleration time, and biomechanical indicators of deceleration were assessed during the penultimate and final steps of preplanned and reactive 90° cuts. Separate repeated-measures analysis-of-variance models were used to assess the influence of step, condition, and their interaction on the biomechanical indicators of deceleration.

Results

Approach velocity (P = .69) and velocity at initial contact of the penultimate step (P = .33) did not differ between conditions. During reactive cutting, participants achieved a smaller cutting angle (P < .001). We identified a significant step-by-condition interaction for all biomechanical indicators of deceleration (P values < .05).

Conclusions

A lack of planning time resulted in less penultimate step braking and greater final step braking during reactive cutting. As a result, participants exhibited a decreased cutting angle and longer stance time during the final step of reactive cutting. Improving an athlete’s ability to respond to an external stimulus may facilitate a more effective penultimate step braking strategy that decreases the braking demand during the final step of reactive cutting.
From the Editor-in-Chief’s Desk
Authors: Van Eeden Elize S.
Published: August 2023

No abstract available.
Квадрат Адамара последовательно соединенных линейных кодов
Authors: Chizhov Ivan Vladimirovich
Published: August 2023

Последовательно соединенные коды порождаются матрицами, которые получаются последовательным соединением порождающих матриц других линейных кодов. В работе получена оценка вероятности того, что квадрат Адамара последовательно соединенных случайных линейных кодов равен декартову произведению квадратов Адамара линейных кодов, участвующих в соединении.
Предельный вид стационарного распределения одного критического регулируемого ветвящегося процесса с иммиграцией
Authors: Vinokurov Vladimir Ivanovich
Published: August 2023

Изучается последовательность $\{\xi_{n,t}\}_{t\geq1} $ регулируемых критических процессов с иммиграцией, где $n=1,2,…$ является некоторым целочисленным параметром, ограничивающим максимальный размер популяции. Показано, что при $n\rightarrow\infty $ стационарные распределения рассматриваемых ветвящихся процессов, нормированных величиной $ \sqrt{n}$, сходятся к распределению случайной величины, квадрат которой имеет гамма-распределение.
Конформная инвариантность и феноменология рождения частиц:
сравнение геометрии Вейля с римановой геометрией
Authors: Berezin Viktor Aleksandrovich , Ivanova Inna Dmitrievna
Published: August 2023

На примере действия идеальной жидкости с переменным числом частиц изучено феноменологическое описание процессов рождения частиц на фоне сильных внешних полей, в частности гравитационного и скалярного полей. Эта модель рассматривается как для геометрии Вейля, так и для римановой геометрии. Новый инвариант, связанный с взаимодействием вектора Вейля с частицами, инкорпорирован в действие материи. Показана конформная инвариантность слагаемого в действии материи, ответственного за рождение частиц.
Automated Expert Knowledge-Based Deep Reinforcement Learning Warm
Start via Decision Tree for Hybrid Electric Vehicle Energy
Management
Authors: Wang Hanchen , Arjmandzadeh Ziba , Ye Yiming , Zhang Jiangfeng , Xu Bin
Published: August 2023

Deep reinforcement learning has been utilized in different areas with significant
progress, such as robotics, games, and autonomous vehicles. However, the optimal
result from deep reinforcement learning is based on multiple sufficient training
processes, which are time-consuming and hard to be applied in real-time vehicle
energy management. This study aims to use expert knowledge to warm start the
deep reinforcement learning for the energy management of a hybrid electric
vehicle, thus reducing the learning time. In this study, expert domain knowledge
is directly encoded to a set of rules, which can be represented by a decision
tree. The agent can quickly start learning effective policies after
initialization by directly transferring the logical rules from the decision tree
into neural network weights and biases. The results show that the expert
knowledge-based warm start agent has a higher initial learning reward in the
training process than the cold start. With more expert knowledge, the warm start
shows improved performance in the initial learning stage compared to the warm
start method with less expert knowledge. The results indicate that the proposed
warm start method requires 76.7% less time to achieve convergence than the cold
start. The proposed warm start method is also compared with the conventional
rule-based method and equivalent consumption minimization strategy. The proposed
warm start method reduces energy consumption by 8.62% and 3.62% compared with
the two baseline methods, respectively. The results of this work can facilitate
the expert knowledge-based deep reinforcement learning warm start in hybrid
electric vehicle energy management problems.
variations in the origin of the coronary artery in black African population: a cadaveric study in western Kenya
Authors: Olgah Otieno Anyango , Domnic Marera Oduor , Gideon Ngw’ena Magak
Published: August 2023

Background: The coronary arteries which originate from the right and left aortic orifices are the main blood vessels to the myocardium. Variations are anomalies which could affect the overall perfusion of the myocardium causing conditions like ischemic heart diseases leading to sudden unpredicted death. Variants can also cause confusion to cardiologists and heart surgeons leading to challenges in patient management. This study sought to determine these variations among black African population in Western Kenya by assessing the variations in origin of the coronary artery. Methods: A cross-sectional study design was used in the Maseno University, Uzima University and Masinde Muliro University Human anatomy laboratories. Out of a total of 89 cadavers,72 samples were identified using Cochran’s formula. Data sheets were used to capture the variables while descriptive statistics was used to calculate the frequency and percentage of the variation in the origin of the coronary arteries while Pearson’s correlation test was used to analyze the relationship between the variables and variations P=≤ 0.05 considered as significant. All ethical approval was issued via license number: NACOSTI /P/22/21905.Results: Dual aortic origin was the most common occurrence at 55.6% while 44.4% were variations with more than one orifice on the aortic cusps. Conclusions: There were variations which could be fatal during surgical procedures, but also important alternate pathway for the perfusion of the myocardium. There is need for early routine imaging of the heart for effective management and to avoid mortalities and morbidity associated with the variations.
Anatomical variations in morphology of right and left brachial plexus among black African population; a cadaveric study in western Kenya
Authors: Omuga Philip Charles Alinyo , Dominic Marera Oduor , Magak Ng’wena
Published: August 2023

Background: Brachial plexus (Bp) is a network of bundles of nerves of spinal cord around neck and axilla in the body formed by union of anterior primary rami of C5 to C8, and T1. Technical expertise required for clinical and surgical procedures remains challenging for the beginners. Variations may be due to trauma, irradiation, neoplasm, infection, and autoimmune inflammatory disease. The purpose of this study was to determine the difference in variation of right and left Bp of the study population. Methods: Cross sectional descriptive study was used in Maseno, Uzima and Masinde Muliro Universities anatomy laboratory to get sample size of 35male and 35 female cadavers. Chi- square test was set at a p= 0.05. Ethical consideration was observed. Results: Statistically significant difference (p=0.009) between the right and the left upper limb in the branching of musculocutaneous nerve was recorded. A total of 17.8% variations in origin and segments of Bp, majority 9.9% were from left while 7.9% from right. Highest frequency of variation occurred at the prefixed root of Bp with 8.7% occurring on left upper limb and 12.13% on right upper limb. Right upper limbs had highest incidence of variations in branching patterns of Bp at 43% whilst left had incidence of 23.5%. Highest frequency of main terminal variation was of musculocutaneous nerve at 18.6% with 13.6% occurring on right side and 5% on left side. Conclusion: Knowledge of variations is essential in evaluation of unexplained sensory and motor loss after trauma and surgical interventions to the upper limb.
Anti-cancer and tissue-neuroprotective potentials of Moringa oleifera and Musa sapientum against in-vivo cadmium chlorideinduced skin toxicity
Authors: Akinlolu Adelaja Abdulazeez , Ebito Gabriel , Ameen Mubarak , Asogwa Nnaemeka , Akindele Raheem , Fagbohunka Bamidele
Published: August 2023

Background: Cadmium is an established carcinogen. Cadmium exposure resulted in skin carcinogenesis in rats. Furthermore, neurotransmitter-cancer interaction, tissue innervation, and angiogenesis influence cancer prognosis, metastasis, and survival. In this study, we evaluated the anticancer and neuro-protective potentials of MO11 (isolated from Moringa oleifera leaves) and MS06 (isolated from Musa sapientum suckers) against in-vivo Cadmium Chloride (CdCl2)- induced skin toxicity. Methods: Twenty-four adult male wistar rats were randomly divided into six groups (n = 4). Group 1 was control. Groups 2-4 and 6 received a single intraperitoneal administration of 1.5 mg/kg CdCl2 on Day 1. Thereafter, Groups 3, 4, and 6 were post-treated with 15 mg/kg MO11, 15 mg/kg MO11 + 7 mg/kg MS06, and 3.35 mg/kg Doxorubicin respectively (Days 1-17). Group 5 received an olive oil dose (vehicle) (Days 1-17). Skin histopathology and tissue-enzyme-linked-immunosorbent assays (Tissue-ELISA) of neurotransmitters (Dopamine and Glutamate), biomarkers of myelination (Myelin Basic Protein), drug metabolism and carcinogenesis (Cytochrome-p450), apoptosis (Caspase-3 and p53), proliferation (Ki67), and angiogenesis (sVEGFR) were evaluated in skin homogenates. Data were statistically analyzed using the Mann-Whitney-U test at P ≤ 0.05. Results: Histopathological analyses revealed normal skin histology (Groups 3 and 4), mild skin histo-alterations (Group 6), and gross skin histopathological alterations (Group 2). Tissue-ELISA analyses showed upregulations of dopamine, Glutamate and Cytochrome-p450, but downregulations of Myelin Basic Protein, Caspase-3, Ki67, p53, and sVEGFR in groups 3, 4, and 6, compared with group 2. MO11 and MS06 achieved better anticancer effects than doxorubicin. Conclusion: Overall, MO11 and MS06 possess histo-protective, neuro-protective, re-myelination, anti-proliferation, anti-angiogenesis, and anti-cancer potentials.
Prevalence and risk factors for hepatitis C virus infection among HIV positive patients at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria
Authors: Oshun P. O. , Salu O. B. , Omilabu S. A.
Published: August 2023

Background: Worldwide, an estimated 58 million people have chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, with about 1.5 million new infections occurring per year. About 2.3 million people living with HIV globally have serological evidence of past or present HCV infection. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of active HCV infection and associated risk factors among HIV positive patients attending the HIV clinic, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), Idi-Araba, Lagos, Nigeria.

Methodology: A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of and risk factors for HCV infection among randomly selected HIV positive patients at the LUTH HIV clinic. Socio-demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected from the participants using a structured questionnaire. Blood samples were collected and tested for HCV antibodies with an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (CTK Biotech USA) and HCV RNA was detected using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction assay.

Results: One hundred and ninety-five HIV infected participants were recruited into the study of which 134 (68.7%) were females and 61 (31.3%) were males. The mean age of participants was 40.1±7.8 years. Of the 195 participants, 5 tested positive for antibody to HCV, giving a seroprevalence rate of 2.6% (95% CI = 0.8-5.9%). Of the 5 seropositive participants, HCV RNA was detected in 1 (20.0%), giving a prevalence of 0.5% (1/195) for active HCV infection. The seroprevalence of HCV in males of 4.9% (3/61) and females of 1.5% (2/134) was not significantly different (OR=3.41, 95% CI=0.56-20.98%, p=0.18). The mean log10 HIV viral load was significantly higher among participants seropositive for HCV (5.1±0.9 log copies/ml) than those seronegative (2.7±1.2 log copies/ml) (p < 0.001). The mean duration of antiretroviral therapy was significantly lower among participants seropositive for HCV (2.6±1.3 years) than those seronegative (5.6±3.1 years) (p=0.004). The seroprevalence of HCV was significantly higher in those with CD4 count <350 cells/mm3 (8.5%) than those with CD4 count >350cells/mm3 (p=0.02). The seroprevalence of HCV in the HIV-positive participants was significantly associated with sexual partners (p=0.0473), with highest seroprevalence in those with ≥ 3 sexual partners (OR=11.625, 95% CI=1.049-128.83). Other risk factors were not significantly associated with seroprevalence of HCV (p>0.05), while risk factors associated with active HCV infection could not be evaluated with the only one HCV RNA positive participant

Conclusion: Although the prevalence of active HCV infection in HIV infected individuals in this study was apparently low (0.5%), screening with HCV antibody test and confirmation with HCV RNA PCR assay are recommended.
On the efficiency of modified regression-type mean imputation scheme under two-phase sampling
Authors: Musa Nura , Audu Ahmed , Joseph Olusegun A. , Muhammed Sulyman , Shehu Abdulazeez , Abubakar Ibrahim , Yunusa Mojeed A.
Published: August 2023

Human-based surveys such as medical and social science surveys are often characterized by non-response or missing observations. In this study, a new class of regression-type mean imputation method that uses X̄n as an estimate of X̄ was suggested. Using partial derivative approach, the MSEs of the class of estimators presented were derived up to first order approximation under two cases. Case I: when the secondary sample S2 of size n(n<n1) is a subset of preliminary sample S1[S2 ⸦ S1] , and Case II: is when secondary sample S2 is a subset of universal set ΩN . Conditions for which the new estimator was more efficient than the other estimators studied were derived. The results of numerical examples through simulations revealed that the suggested class of estimators is more efficient.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Lagenaria breviflora aqueous leaves extract
Authors: Akinsipo Oyesolape B. , Alayande Samson O. , Mustapha Toheeb O. , Abayomi Morenikeji E. , Adeloye Dayo , Osinubi Adejoke D.
Published: August 2023

The development of biologically inspired silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has attracted considerable worldwide attention in the field of medical nanotechnology. This is because secondary metabolites possess the unique reducibility required in the green synthesis of nanoparticles. This study for the first time describes the use of an aqueous extract of Lagenaria breviflora leaves (LBaq) in the synthesis of AgNPs. The methanolic extract of Lagenaria breviflora leaves (LBme) was analyzed to determine the presence of some important phytochemicals. AgNPs were prepared at different concentrations, using the green-synthetic method. The synthesized AgNPs were characterized using UV-Visible Spectrophotometer (UV-Vis), Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometry (EDS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). Qualitative phytochemical analysis of the methanolic extract of Lagenaria breviflora leaves confirmed the presence of flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, alkaloids and cardiac glycosides. A colour change from light yellow to dark/reddish-brown colouration after 6 hours indicated the formation of AgNPs, which was confirmed by a maximum absorption band observed at almost 450 nm in the UV-Vis spectrum. The crystalline nature of AgNPs was confirmed by the XRD pattern. The SEM results revealed the morphology of the synthesized AgNPs including some oval and nano-sphere-shaped particles. The EDS analysis confirmed the presence of elemental silver in abundance. AgNPs were successfully obtained from the bioreduction of AgNO3 solution using LBaq. The results obtained in this study prove that Lagenaria bleviflora leaves possess the bioreducing ability required to synthesize silver nanoparticles at the nanoscale level.
An assessment of the physiochemical quality of drinking water from tube wells and its effects on human health in Sokoto metropolis
Authors: Sani Mustapha , Muazu Zayyanu , Dangaladima Hayatu
Published: August 2023

Available, accessible and safe drinking water supply may enhance health and development. The availability of potable water supply plays a key role in the realization of health improvement measures in any community. Water supply reduces the incidence of water related diseases, infant mortality rates and increases the children’s life expectancy. Safe and quality water is a basic need for every human being and catalyst for good health and development in any nation globally. Safe drinking water is the most important in the control of diseases such as dysentery, diarrhea, typhoid, etc. in fact its reported that 80% of all the diseases in the world especially in Africa are associated with unsafe water. This paper aimed at assessing whether if the tube wells ground water in Sokoto South Local Government are of good quality standard for human consumption as enshrine by WHO’s (2017) guidelines and SON (2015) for the protection of human health. Meanwhile, primary data were generated by collecting samples of water from selected tube wells in different locations in the study area using purposive sampling techniques. Three most important physicochemical parameters were tested. The most important physic parameter tested and analyzed was pH, of the water while the most important chemical parameters tested and analyzed were chloride (Cl), and nitrate (NO3) using descriptive statistics method. The results show that the water from the tube wells are physicochemically fit for human consumption. The paper recommended that such water should still be treated, boiled, frozen and thawed before consumption.
Magnetohydrodynamics free convection couette flow and heat transfer through a vertical porous plate with heat generation and absorption effect
Authors: Kabir Tafida M. , Umar Ayuba M. , Umar Lawal
Published: August 2023

This research examines the impact of suction/injection and permeability of porous materials on a steady natural convection Couette flow of a viscous incompressible fluid passing through a vertical porous plate. The dimensionless governing momentum and energy equations were solved exactly. Graphs were plotted to check the impact of the governing flow parameters and a table was plotted for comparison of the results. It was found from the investigation that, the fluid injection (λ>0) increases the fluid velocity and temperature distributions while the magnetic field (M) retards the fluid velocity. It is also noteworthy to mention that the suction (λ>0) reduces the fluid velocity and temperature distributions in the channel. The velocity profile is observed to increase with increase in the permeability (K) of the materials.
Morphological and Molecular identification of firefly (Abscondita sp.) from Nsukka Nigeria
Authors: Onah Ikechukwu Eugene
Published: August 2023

The beetle family Lampyridae (fireflies) are fascinating group of insects known for their characteristic lighting patterns. The light of firefly is produced from their abdomen by a chemical reaction of the organic compound luciferase. There is lack of information on the species composition and biodiversity of fireflies in Africa despite the speculations that Africa is the richest continent in firefly species diversity. To date, there is no taxonomic key for morphological identification of fireflies of Africa. In addition, there is no reference DNA barcodes for African fireflies in GenBank to enhance species identification using DNA barcoding. These knowledge gaps hamper the study and harnessing the economic and ecological benefits of fireflies in the ecosystem in the continent. The objective of this study was to identify a species of firefly collected in Nsukka using both morphological and molecular methods to encourage and kickstart research on fireflies in Africa. The firefly was collected in the study area using direct capture with the aid of insect net. The species was identified using picture vouchers and keys from Canada and South East Asia. The firefly was identified as Abscondita anceyi using morphological method. Molecular method employed amplified and sequenced 658 bp of the barcode region of the COI gene of the firefly samples. DNA barcoding showed the firefly has a similarity of 89.06% with Abscondita chinensis. Molecular phylogeny based on the COI gene clustered the samples with Abscondita chinensis but in a different branch of the tree. The firefly thus belongs to the genus Abscondita but its specific name is yet to be determined. This is the first barcode of fireflies of the subfamily Luciolinae in Africa. We call for a follow up in documenting fireflies of Africa to harness their benefits in the environment.
Transmission pattern and the role of DOTS clinic in the control strategies of Tuberculosis in Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Takalmawa H.U. , Mukhtar M.D. , Taura D.W. , Iliyasu Z. , Mohammad Y. , Sadisu N. , Adamu A.Y.
Published: August 2023

Tuberculosis (TB) is a major public health concern not only in developing nations but globally and the World Health Organization (WHO)  estimated 10.4 million incident cases of TB and 1.67 million TB deaths in 2017. The study was conducted in Infectious Disease Hospital  (IDH), Kano, a reference health facility for infectious disease of public health importance. The aim of the study was to determine the transmission pattern of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) strains and the role played by Directly Observed Therapy Short  course (DOTS) clinic in the control of TB. Of the 945 case-patients enrolled, 625 (66.1%) were males and 320 (33.9%) were females. The  mean age of patients in years was 32.8 ± 13.8 SD and the median age was 30 years (range 3-95 years). Incidence of TB among presumptive cases was 15.0%. There was a fairly consistent increase in TB prevalence from 2015 (11.0%), 2016 (11.5%), 2017 (10.0%) and  2018 (36%). Pulmonary TB was diagnosed in 884 (93.5%) while Extra-Pulmonary TB accounted for 6.5%. New cases of TB within the study  period were 819 (86.7%) and while 126 (13.3%) were relapse TB cases. Treatment outcome that included patients described as cured or  have completed treatment successfully (smear negative) were recorded in 811 (85.8%) cases. DOTS clinic has improved TB detection rate  through the years and consequently played a big supervisory role in TB treatment and control strategy in the state.
Bacterial Assessment of Retailed Smoked Edible Frog (Hoplobatrachus occipitalis)
Authors: Daramola J.A. , Kester C.T. , Kehinde A.A.
Published: August 2023

This research work evaluated the bacteriological safety of smoked edible frog (Hoplobatrachus occipitalis) retailed in three selected  markets in Ota metropolis, Ogun State, Nigeria. Three different markets namely Iju-Ota, Sango and Ijoko markets were visited and  smoked edible frogs were procured. The study was conducted to determine if there is any potential risk of foodborne infection from consuming these smoked edible frogs by the populace. Microbiological analyses were carried out using nutrient Agar, mannitol salt agar,  mac conkey agar, Salmonella shigella agar and eosin methylene blue agar (EMBA) and conventional methods were used to identify  the bacteria isolated. The results revealed that samples from Sango market had the highest heterotrophic bacterial counts and ranged  from 2.57 x 107 cfu/g to 3.47 x 107 cfu/g among the three markets. Total coliform counts ranged from 1.23 x 105 cfu/g to 2.04 x 105 cfu/g,  total enterobacteriaceae counts ranged from 8.91 x 102 cfu/g to 1.29 x 103 cfu/g, total staphylococcal counts ranged from 1.82 x  105 cfu/g to 2.63 x 105 cfu/g and that of Salmonella shigella counts ranged from 8.71 x 102 cfu/g to 1.15 x 103 cfu/g. The bacterial isolates  in this study belong to six genera. Presence of these bacterial isolates is highly suggestive that these products were prepared  and sold under condition that would permit the survival and multiplication of various microorganisms. Proper processing and cooking of  the smoked edible frog meat will get rid of these pathogens, thereby preventing foodborne infections.
Gender and local governance: Women’s participation in electoral politics, leadership positions, and decision-making process at local governments of Bench-Maji and Kaffa zones of southwest Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Wasihun Bezabih , Nigatu Yitagesu Bekele
Published: August 2023

The representation of women in administrative positions and local legislature in Ethiopia is very low. The average percentage of women in leadership positions and legislatures in the study area is 14.2% and 33.8% respectively. This study seeks to understand barriers to women’s participation in politics at the local government level in Ethiopia. To achieve this, cross-sectional research approach and probability sampling technique was used; accordingly, 399 sample households were selected. Quantitative data was gathered through a household survey questionnaire, and complimentary qualitative information was collected via key informant interviews and focus group discussions. The quantitative data was analysed using descriptive statistics whilst thematic analysis technique was used to deal with the qualitative data. The study highlights the prevalence of negative views on the capacity of women in leadership roles which adversely affects women’s ability to distinguish and manage societal affairs. The cumulative effect resulted in the thinking of women’s position in governmental offices at the lower level. The barrier that female political aspirants emphasised were: lack of experience, lack of confidence, low level of educational status, and domestic and societal responsibilities. Thus, the research recommends the need for strengthening women’s associations and civil society groups and networks that focus on local governance and citizen participation.
Impacts of access to and use of electricity on households’ economic status in selected informal settlement areas of Woreda 12, Yeka Sub City, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Nibretu , Tolossa Degefa , Tefera Tamirat
Published: August 2023

At present, although electricity is essential for all human beings, it is not equally accessible to all. This paper analyzed the impact of access to and use of electricity on the economic status of informal settlements in Addis Ababa based on 450 households drawn from three sites of Woreda 12, Yeka Sub-City. The respondents were selected using proportional random sampling method and data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Endogenous Switching Regression (ESR) models. The study revealed that non-users of electricity shifted more family labor to domestic activities, baked Injera less frequently per week, owned small number of home-based businesses, and used less alternative fuels than electricusers. However, due to lack of reliable energy supply and food consumption behaviors (FCBs), households do not completely rely on a single energy source. These situations could draw the attention of the government to provide reliable electric supply to non-users of electricity living sporadically mixed with electric-users, close to electric facilities and change households’ energy consumption behaviors using alternative energy sources with the concept of energy stacking.
Exploring the practices and contextual factors in teaching writing skills in EFL classrooms: a case study
Authors: Tedeneke Abebaw
Published: August 2023

This study explored four experienced teachers’ practices and challenges in teaching writing in English as a foreign language (EFL) in a secondary school in Ethiopia. While a single secondary school was selected based on a convenient sampling technique, four EFL teachers were selected using a purposive sampling technique. The data were collected using classroom observations, stimulated recall interviews, and course document analysis and were analyzed thematically. The findings of the study revealed that the teachers employed a product-oriented approach with a focus on rhetorical features and patterns about different types of texts. Large class sizes, lack of students’ language proficiency, lack of teachers’ pedagogical competence in teaching writing, and insufficiency of instructional time to develop drafts were found to impede teachers’ classroom practices in the study context. Based on the findings, it was recommended that teachers should assist students to do their writing outside the classroom ahead of each writing lesson so that they can use the lesson time for productive learning tasks. Besides, the Ministry of Education should spread systems to offer on-job training regarding up-to-date and innovative ways of teaching writing skills.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of University students regarding antimicrobial use (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Ethiopia
Authors: Abunna Fufa , Gebresenbet Girma , Megersa Bekele
Published: August 2023

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study on 1252 University students was conducted in Ethiopia to assess their knowledge, attitude,  and practices (KAP) towards antimicrobial usage (AMU) and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Verbal consent was obtained from randomly  selected students to participate in this study. A logistic regression analysis was used to assess the association between the socio- demographic profiles of the students against their knowledge, attitude, and practices toward antimicrobial resistance and antimicrobial  usage. The Kruskal-Wallis and chi-square tests were used to examine how the median scores in each of the knowledge, attitude, and  practice categories varied across study participants. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered significant. The overall median AMR and  AMU knowledge score was 13 (IQR=11, 14). The median AMR and AMU attitude score was 15 (IQR: 13, 15). The median score of AMU and  AMR practice was 10 (IQR: 10, 11). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the students’ birthplace was found to be a significant factor  (p <0.01) regarding the knowledge of students. The analysis further revealed that students’ birthplace, field of studies, and good  knowledge were significant factors (p<0.01) affecting their attitudes. Students with good knowledge had 3.9 times more positive attitudes  than those with poor knowledge (OR = 3.9, CI = 3.0 -5.2, p < 0.01). Students from VM had 1.6 times better attitudes than  students from HS and NHS (OR = 1.6, CI=1.2- 2.1, p = 0.002). Finally, students in the field of veterinary medicine and those having good  knowledge had 1.4 and 0.5 times better practice than their counterparts (OR=1.4; CI=1.2, 2.1, p<0.01 and OR= 0.5, CI=0.4, 0.6, p<0.01,  respectively). In conclusion, there were critical gaps in knowledge, attitudes, and practices among University students regarding  antimicrobial usage and antimicrobial resistance. Hence, students are encouraged to exhaustively utilize the digital era to advance their  knowledge. Interventions to raise awareness should also target students majoring in fields other than health sciences.
Contributing factors to repeat breeding and postpartum anestrus and pregnancy rate subsequent to hormonal intervention in crossbred dairy cows
Authors: Befekadu Kirubel , Eshete Tewodros , Demissie Tilaye , Yilma Tefera
Published: August 2023

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January to July 2021 to determine the prevalence and contributing factors to repeat breeding  (RB) and postpartum anestrus (PPA) in crossbred dairy cattle in the central highland of Ethiopia. Furthermore; a retrospective study was  used to collect data on the occurrence of RB and PPA and the associated risk factors. The pregnancy rate was determined by rectal  palpation on day 60 after hormonal therapy using double PGF2α and GnRH in combination with PGF2α. (Ovsynch). The prevalence of RB and PPA was 33.85% and 30.73%, respectively. Body condition score, parity, milk yield, herd size, abortion, and mastitis all revealed a  statistically significant association (p < 0.05) with the prevalence of RB and PPA. Cows with a previous history of abortion were 2.58 times  at risk of repeat breeding than those without. Similarly, cows with a previous history of mastitis were 2.63 times more at risk of RB than  cows that didn’t encounter the disease. Previously aborted and older cows with greater parity numbers were 2.89 and 1.23 times more  affected by PPA, respectively. Moreover, endometritis and retained fetal membrane showed significant association (p<0.05) with  postpartum anestrus. The pregnancy rates in cows treated with double PGF2α and GnRH + PGF2α (Ovsynch) were 41.46% and 29.17%,  respectively. It is concluded that the occurrence of RB and PPA in the research area was influenced by parity, body condition, and daily  milk yield of the cow. Reproductive health problems including abortion retained fetal membranes, endometritis, and mastitis affected the  prevalence of RB and PPA. Although the use of double PGF2α or in combination with GnRH has resumed cyclicity in RB and PPA dairy  cows, the pregnancy rates are yet low. Hence, a study that utilizes detailed hormonal assay profiles and reproductive-related blood  metabolites should be done.