bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delay Determinants in Seeking Cervical Cancer Treatment and Economic Burden among Patients at Selected Facilities in Imo State
Authors: Innocent David Chinaecherem
Published: January 2024

Background: Cervical cancer is an important public health problem worldwide. In Nigeria women seeking cancer treatment see cost of uptake as a challenge. The objective of this study is to determine the determinants of delay in seeking cervical cancer treatment and economic burden among patients at selected facilities in Imo state. Methods: A hospital based descriptive cross sectional study was employed and a probability based multi-stage simple random sampling procedure was employed for the study in recruiting a total of 302 patients who participated in the study. A pretested structured questionnaire was used and statistical package for social sciences version 23.0 was used in the analysis of the study. Results: 32.6% (98) of the respondents were between 56-60 years of age and 19.5% (59) earned between ₦31,000-₦60,000. 57.1% of the women accepted to uptake cervical cancer treatment and 62.8% of the respondents confirmed they can afford to uptake cervical cancer treatment options. The study revealed that 26.7% of the women were able to afford supportive palliative care as a form of cervical cancer treatment. There was a statistically significant relationship between age (χ2 =12, df=4, p= 0.0035), occupation (χ2 = 0.321, df=5, p=0.00275), income level (χ2 = 8.57, df=3, p=0.0092), education level (χ2 = 17, df=2, p=0.0327) and uptake of cervical cancer treatment. Also, financial constraints (p=0.0031), attitude of health providers (p=0.0074), distance to facility (p=0.0015) and lack of information (p= 0.0038) showed significant association with the economic cost towards seeking cervical cancer treatment. Conclusion: Several demographic and economic factors contribute to the determinants of delay in seeking cervical cancer treatment and economic burden among patients at selected facilities in Imo state. Awareness campaigns must provide accurate information so that women can make informed choices.
Seroprevalence, Isolation and Molecular Detection of Infectious Bronchitis in Backyard and Commercial Chickens in Central Gondar Zone, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Mihret Tadesse
Published: January 2024

Infectious bronchitis (IB) is a highly contagious disease of the respiratory and urogenital tract of chickens, caused by infectious bronchitis virus (IBV), a member of the family Coronaviridae. Due to the serious infectious and transmission features of the disease mostly in the reproductive and respiratory systems it causes potential economic loss. Hence a cross-sectional study was conducted from February 2022 to June 2022 on chicken serum and tracheal swab samples from backyard and commercial farms in central Gondar zone, Ethiopia, to determine the seroprevalence of IB, associated risk factors and for isolation and molecular detection of the virus. A total of 384 blood samples were collected and tested by an indirect ELISA and Anti-IBV antibody positivity was noted in 92.19% (95% confidence interval (89 % -94.6 %) of the samples. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the impact of possible risk factors on seropositivity. Higher prevalence was noted in young chickens than in adults (p< 0.05) and in exotic breeds than in local breeds (p<0.05). Though the difference was not statistically significant (p>0.05), higher prevalence was obtained in dual purpose chickens (93.75%) than in layers (92.17%) and broilers (90.98%). Higher prevalence was also noted in females (92.7%) than in males (90.98%) and in intensively managed chickens (93.39%) than in extensively managed chickens (90.69%) with p>0.05. Conventional RT-PCR test was also performed for the molecular detection of virus. The test was done on 52 tracheal swab samples collected from intensive and backyard unvaccinated chickens that were pooled in to 26 samples. Accordingly, 3 (11.54%) of the 26 pooled samples were IBV positive. The result showed that this was the first molecular evidence found in the study area. The seroprevalence of the disease in this study was very high for all age groups, breed types, and farm types. The risk factors mentioned and the management methods may have raised the likelihood of infection and the prevalence of the disease. Vaccination and biosecurity measures are advised to manage the disease. Identification and characterization of persistent IBV serotypes that are present in the field is also recommended to manage the disease.
Systematic Review of Institutional Scabies Outbreaks in Sub Saharan Africa
Authors: Akinde Cassandra Bolanle
Published: January 2024

Background: Scabies is an important global health problem largely affecting low and middle-income countries in poor and overcrowded areas. Until recently, there has been paucity of data on the epidemiology of scabies in Sub-Saharan Africa and in particular community and facility based level estimates of disease burden. The aim of this systematic review is to identify and describe the literature on institutional scabies outbreaks across Sub Saharan African countries. Methodology: International databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Global Health), African Wide Portal and grey literature were systematically searched from July 1, 2020 to July 31, 2020. The data were analysed using STATA Version 16.1 and described through narrative synthesis. Results: Eight studies were included in this systematic review and analysed for prevalence estimation of scabies outbreaks in institutions. The outbreaks were most frequently reported in schools (n = 4) and religious institutions (n = 3). On average, scabies outbreaks persisted for 3 months (90 days) and the median attack/prevalence rate was 22.5%. Conclusion: The burden of institutional scabies outbreaks is under reported in Sub Saharan Africa . More research and practice emphasis must be paid to prevent scabies outbreaks in both community and institutional settings.
A Case of Autoimmune Hepatitis Chronic Liver Disease with Iron Overload
Authors: P Barua
Published: January 2024

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a rare autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation in liver which affects all ages, both genders, and all ethnicities. It has a heterogenous presentation in which patients may either be asymptomatic, chronically ill or may present with acute liver failure [1]. The diagnosis should be considered in patients with acute or chronic liver dysfunction including patients with graft dysfunction after Liver Transplantation [1]. AIH does not have a signature diagnostic feature, and the diagnosis requires the presence of a constellation of typical features which can vary between patients with the same disease and can occur in other liver diseases. AIH like other inflammatory conditions is associated with increased ferritin levels (acute phase reactant) but normal transferrin saturation level. The presence of excessive ferritin in absence of high transferrin saturation helps differentiate secondary iron overload from hemochromatosis where transferrin saturation is high [2]. There are case reports of chronic liver disease and secondary iron overload. We report a rare case of chronic liver disease due to AIH and secondary iron overload leading to diagnostic dilemma encountered during our clinical practice.
A Regression-Based Approach for Accurate Source Tracking Using Microbial Communities
Authors: An Lingling
Published: January 2024

Microbiome data has emerged as a valuable resource in source tracking studies, owing to its applications in the examination of trace evidence and human identification. In response to the growing importance of microbial information in forensic and environmental investigations, we have developed a novel statistical method called REST (REgression-based Source Tracking). REST offers a robust framework to harness microbiome data for the purpose of linking sample or sink data to a diverse pool of potential sources, identifying missing contributors, and accurately estimating the proportions of each source. Our research findings clearly demonstrate the superiority of the REST method over existing techniques in source tracking. Notably, REST exhibits a remarkable ability to detect and estimate the proportions with a minimal error rate. This advancement holds the potential to significantly enhance the accuracy of identifying individuals in forensic cases and tracking the origins of microbial compositions in environmental samples. By minimizing errors and providing precise estimates, REST opens up new possibilities for improving criminal investigations, mitigating environmental contamination, and addressing public health concerns with greater confidence and precision. The versatility of the REST method extends its applications beyond the scenarios discussed here, making it a valuable tool in various source tracking endeavors.
Unveiling the Threads – A Case Study on the Forensic Identification and Quantification of Cocaine Impregnated in Fabric Using GC-FID
Authors: Ratnapala Kanchana
Published: January 2024

Drug traffickers use different concealment methods to transport cocaine worldwide. Impregnation of cocaine into fabric, clothing and rubber is one of the concealment methods that drug traffickers use to transport cocaine. In 2018, an individual possessing a Bolivian passport, travelling from Dubai was taken into custody at the Katunayake International Airport, Sri Lanka by the officers of Police Narcotics Bureau. The individual had a baggage of fabric suspected to be impregnated with dangerous drugs, with his possession. The baggage containing suspicious fabric items was produced to the Narcotics laboratory of the Government Analyst’s Department for detailed forensic chemical analysis. Initial tests including presumptive tests and Thin Layer Chromatography indicated the possible presence of cocaine in the fabric items. Further analysis using Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry confirmed that the suspicious fabric contained cocaine. The extraction procedure revealed that the average percentage of powder recovered from the fabric was approximately 27% out of the total weight of fabric items. Gas chromatography with Flame Ionisation Detector was used to quantify the amount of cocaine in the extracted powder. Purity of cocaine thus obtained varied from 28%-30%, and cocaine impregnated in fabric items was in the hydrochloride form. The total weight of cocaine impregnated to fabric items was 901.2 grams.
Identification of Synthetic Cathinones in Unknown Substances in Sri Lanka
Authors: Kodithuwakku Dammika
Published: January 2024

There is a high tendency of ‘legal highs’ entering the local drug market. Most of the countries including Sri Lanka have controlled these drugs, because of their adverse side effects. 4-Methyl methcathinone, (4-MMC, Mephedrone) and 3-Methyl methcathinone (3-MMC, Mataphedrone) are psychoactive substances categorized under the group of synthetic cathinones. These drugs are commonly available in powder forms and crystalline forms and produce effects similar to those of MDMA, amphetamines and cocaine. Three cases containing unknown substances were submitted to the Narcotics Laboratory of the Government Analyst’s Department of Sri Lanka for further examination to find out the presence of narcotic drugs if any. Comprehensive analytical scheme including TLC, UV- Visible spectroscopy, GC-MS and RAMAN spectroscopy was applied for the qualitative analysis. The results obtained from TLC, UV-Visible, GC-MS, and RAMAN spectroscopy, confirmed the presence of Mephedrone (4-MMC) and Metaphedrone (3-MMC) in the unknown substances, and 3-MMC and 4-MMC were identified for the first time in Sri Lanka at the Government Analyst’s Department. Even though, Mephedrone is a controlled substance in Sri Lanka, 3-MMC is still not included as a controlled substance. Therefore, it is high time for Sri Lankan legal authorities to pay more attention in controlling New Psychoactive Substances (NPS).
Influence of Secondary Victimization on the Dark Figure of Criminality from the Perspective of Criminology
Authors: Pessoa Jonathan Dantas
Published: January 2024

The present work focuses on the study of secondary victimization in the obscure crime figure from the perspective of Criminology, demonstrating how both phenomena are correlated and bringing possible alternatives that make it possible to eliminate the occurrence of such factors. As possible alternatives that aim to reduce the occurrence of secondary victimization and obscure figures in crime, it is possible to point out the importance of formal social control, having trained professionals, who ensure that the path between the crime and the reporting of the fact to the competent bodies is the same. in the least serious way possible, effectively contributing to victims gaining confidence in reporting their occurrence, avoiding obscure crime figures and combating impunity with greater efficiency. It is also beneficial to raise awareness in society. It is inferred that due to the violence and humiliation, and considering the fragility and vulnerability generally inherent to the victims, the criminal practice generates serious consequences, and there is still a lot to be done for the victims in order to lead to a significant mitigation of the occurrence of the phenomena addressed in this work.
Hardware Forensics-an Introduction to Digital Forensics in the Embedded Computing Context
Authors: DP Franco
Published: January 2024

The growing presence of embedded systems in the daily lives of people and companies, driven by the emergence of portable devices, makes these systems ubiquitous and a valuable source of information for criminal investigations. However, the lack of resources dedicated to forensics in this context, excluding IoT devices due to their technical particularities, led to the need to start writing this material. This article seeks to introduce experts to embedded systems forensics, highlighting the importance and existence of this field, and emphasizing that microcontrollers, flash memories, ROM memories and other often overlooked devices can contain crucial evidence for solving a variety of crimes. Furthermore, it will be discussed how to adapt conventional forensic techniques to the peculiarities of embedded systems, which generally have limited processing resources, energy constraints and high connectivity, challenging traditional forensic approaches.
Investigating the Illicit Manufacture of Pharmaceutical Drugs in Sri Lanka-A Case Study on the Underworld of Counterfeit Drugs
Authors: Ratnapala Kanchana
Published: January 2024

The pharmaceutical drug industry is engaged in the research, development, manufacture and marketing of drugs and medications, which plays a major role in the healthcare industry. The global demand for the pharmaceutical drugs is on the rise, and unfortunately there is a concurrent increase in the illicit production of these drugs worldwide. This surge can be attributed to factors such as high demand, potential for profit, weak regulatory oversight and desire to exploit gaps in the legal market. Despite pharmaceutical drugs are intended for the treatment of medical conditions and pain relief, there is growing trend of illicit drug abusers to misusing these substances. Reports indicate a significant number of unlicensed pharmacies in Sri Lanka, but fewer accounts of illicit manufacturing of pharmaceutical drugs. In April 2023, the Police Narcotic Bureau officers arrested a building in a densely populated area in Colombo, Sri Lanka, suspecting it to be a clandestine laboratory for the production of illicit drugs. Subsequently, the Government Analyst of Sri Lanka was tasked with investigating the suspected clandestine laboratory. A team of forensic analysts from Government Analyst’s Department (GAD) visited the site, scrutinized the location, examined the equipment and chemicals and collected samples for further analysis. Although the clandestine laboratory was abandoned at the time of visit, evidence of machinery used for filling capsules, various chemicals, chemical glassware and other equipment were observed. Preliminary tests for illicit drugs and handheld Raman Spectroscopy testing were conducted at the scene. Gas Chromatography – Mass Spectroscopy (GCMS) was performed on the collected samples in the GAD laboratory. The analysis revealed the samples collected from the clandestine laboratory contained the substances considered pharmaceutical drugs namely, Tramadol, Lidocaine, Niacinamide, Menthol and Chlorpheniramine.
Heroin Smuggling-Ingenious Techniques-A Case Study on the Development of a Suitable Extraction Procedure for Identification and Quantification of Heroin Impregnated in Rubber Carpets
Authors: Kodithuwakku Dammika
Published: January 2024

The method of impregnation of heroin into some material is a very crafty modus operandi deployed by the drug smugglers globally. The complicated nature of this method makes it extremely challenging for the boarder protection authorities as well as the forensic scientists to apprehend and identify the contraband. A case of heroin impregnated into the fabric bath towels was received by Government Analyst’s Department (GAD) of Sri Lanka in 2010 which was successfully identified and quantified. Ten years after the first detection, the officers of the Police Narcotic Bureau (PNB) of Sri Lanka handed over a case with three heroin impregnated rubber carpets and powders of heroin sandwiched between rubber layers. This is the first time the Government Analyst’s Department of Sri Lanka received such a case after heroin impregnated towels.
Forensic Anthropology Cases in Uruguay: An Update (1992-2023)
Authors: E Solla Horacio
Published: January 2024

The article presents an update of a quantitative analysis of the forensic anthropology cases that occurred in Uruguay from 1992 to 2023. The number of forensic anthropology cases has rapidly increased in Uruguay. Over 30 years this number had rise from 14 cases in 1992 to 75 cases in 2023, reached a maximum number of cases in 2006 and 2013, ascending to 91 cases for each year. Forensic anthropology cases processed between 1992 and 2023 at the Judicial Morgue of Montevideo ascending at the present to 1752. The Laboratory of Forensic Anthropology at the Judicial Morgue of Montevideo City was created in 1992, as a response to the need to address the backlog of cases. Since 1992 all the remains were analyzed to determine sex, stature and age at the time of death and, eventually the identity of the remains. In cases where a positive identification was made, a forensic anthropology analysis was also performed. The purpose of this paper is to describe the place of forensic anthropology in the Uruguayan medico-legal system, the evolution an increase of the number of cases from 1992 to 2023 and, to show its effectiveness in identification of human remains.
The Presentation of Clinical Results of Radiolabelling of 99mtcMIBI Complex Using Ultrasound Technique for Myocardial Perfusion Scanning (MPS)
Authors: SH Hassanpour
Published: January 2024

The initial objective and opinion of this study is introducing the clinical results of the 99mTc-MIBI complex radiolabelling utilizing ultrasound method as an approach for labeling MIBI kits with 99mTc instead of applying a boiling water bath as a usual and standard method. The results provided in this research applying radio-HPLC and ITLC, indicate that radio-labeling of MIBI vial with 99mTc can be provided with high effectiveness and appropriate acceptance applying ultrasound method as a novel approach. The imaging research applying SPECT indicated that the 99mTc-MIBI complex samples that were made ready applying ultrasound irradiation approach indicate very similar biodistribution in the heart, thyroid, lung, liver, gallbladder, kidneys, stomach, GI and bladder of the volunteer patients. Non-habitual aggregation of 99mTc-MIBI samples were not observed in our approach. This research indicated that sonication approach can be proposed for providing 99mTc-MIBI radiocomplex samples. The reaction time to provide radio-complex can be considerably decreased compared to the boiling water bath approach. This main development may decrease potential risk to the patient to inhibit any delay in emergency situations like acute therapy, especially for myocardial infarction patients in clinical practice
Role of 18F-FDG PET-CT in CNS Lymphoma-A Case Report
Authors: FT Zohra
Published: January 2024

The actual role of 18F-FDG PET/CT in evaluating primary brain lymphoma is still an open issue. Brain lymphoma usually show elevated 18F-FDG uptake, often higher than other brain tumors or inflammatory processes, but the metabolic behavior of this lymphoma is not still understood. Central nervous system lymphoma is a rare non-Hodgkin lymphoma in which malignant (cancer) cells from lymph tissue form in the brain and/or spinal cord (primary CNS) or spread from other parts of the body to the brain and/or spinal cord (secondary CNS). A 55 year-old man presented with headache. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a well-enhanced mass lesion in the left frontal lobe. A surgical specimen obtained through left orbito-pterional craniotomy revealed a diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL). 18F FDG PET-CT scan showed multiple hypodensehypermetabolic lesions in brain. Multiple hypodense focal hypermetabolic areas were seen in right frontal lobe, left frontal lobe and left temporal lobe. There was also a subcentimetrichypermetabolic sub-carinal lymph node. The activity was diminished on follow-up PET-CT after 8 courses of chemotherapy. This case indicates that FDG PET-CT scan can aid identify the atypical primary CNS lymphoma for staging workup and can be a useful tool to see treatment response.
Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Revealed by Cranial Metastasis: Two Cases and Review of Literature
Authors: N Abaouz
Published: January 2024

Differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) is the most common pathological type of thyroid carcinoma, which includes papillary and follicular subtypes. DTC is usually indolent, characterized by a good prognosis, and long-term survival. Distant metastatic disease from thyroid carcinoma is becoming a rare problem. Total thyroidectomy itself has become less associated with morbidity than it once was. We describe two patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma metastatic to the skull who was seen recently. The management of this disease entity is discussed.
Diffuse Intense Pleural FDG Uptake with Smooth Thickening: A MARKER of Tuberculosis in Isolated Pleural Effusion
Authors: S Sampath
Published: January 2024

Tuberculosis is a great mimicker of malignancy and both can present with isolated pleural effusion. Herein we present the characteristic PET/CT features of tuberculosis pleural effusion. Careful attention to these findings could direct the management towards tuberculosis in such scenarios, where demonstration of Acid Fast Bacilli and necrotizing granulomas would be difficult due to absence of nodal disease and/or technically challenging pleural biopsy
Background to the Health and Safety Regulation at Work in Colombia
Authors: EAB Marrugo
Published: January 2024

In this reflection on the new occupational risk system in Colombia, the way in which it evolved is discussed, changing its context from professional to labor, encompassing the expansion of the definitions of work accident and occupational disease. In addition, the issue of the variation in the name occupational health program is addressed, which is now defined as a safety and health management system at work, bringing with it a totally different dynamic from the one previously raised by the extinct resolution, 1016 of 1989 regarding the constitution and the dynamics that this new norm requires. The foregoing must be fulfilled by the companies of the different economic sectors, addressing the new provisions of the disability qualification boards, their functions and characteristics, in the same way, the aspects of the guarantees offered by the state in the application of the regulations of labor risks, contributions to the system, obligations of employers and reports of accidents and labor inspectors, among others.
Efficacy of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) as Anaesthetics in Three Life Stages of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Authors: OMG Abu
Published: January 2024

The use of botanicals to replace as anaesthetics in fish is gaining momentum in recent years. This study was carried out to determine the efficacy of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) as anaesthetics in three life stages of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus). A total of 180 specimens of C. gariepinus were procured from Production Ponds in African Regional Aquaculture Centre, (ARAC), Aluu, and Rivers State of Nigeria. They were exposed to nut Meg extracts at different concentrations of 4.00, 6.00, 8.00, 10.00 and 12.00mg/L. The results obtained indicated a size related responses to nut Meg extracts. The induction time decreased significantly (P<0.05) as the concentrations of the nut Meg extracts increased. The highest induction time (15.08±0.04 min) was recorded in adult fish at 12.00mlL-1. While the lowest (3.18±0.06 min) was recorded in fingerlings at 4.00mlL However, the longest recovery time (11.59±0.06 min) was observed in the adult fish at 12.00 mg/l and the shortest (1.13±0.02) in fingerlings at 4.00mg/l of the nut Meg extracts. The recovery time for all the life stages generally increased as the concentrations of the anaesthetics increased. Also, the recovery times in adult fish were higher at all concentrations; this was closely followed by juvenile fish, while the shortest recovery time was observed in fingerlings in all concentrations of exposure. This trend followed the pattern of typical fish anaesthetics in terms of induction time and recovery time.
A Study on “Idealogical Model for Integrated Fish Farming” at Siddipet, Telangana State
Authors: Chari T Jagadeeshwara
Published: January 2024

Azolla is used as feed for fish, poultry, piggery, and used as manure in paddy. The spirulina is used as feed for fish, which has high protein value. Products from poultry and duckery manure gets utilized in fish production and also used as fertilizer in paddy. Meat, eggs and feathers gets exported for the preparation of cocks. Eggs from poultry and duckery get utilized in minute value as a feed. Pig manure is used as a fish feed and as a fertilizer in paddy. Antibiotics such as “INSULIN” can be obtained from pancreas of pig. Products from paddy such as rice bran are used as a feed for fish. The contaminated water from the pond gets utilized for paddy production so that we can produce pest free rice (organic rice) . All the crops are integrated with each other. The feed is prepared with the products in the farm
Evaluation of Heavy Metal Pollutants of Water on Fish Health and its Impact on Human Health
Authors: M. Aly Mohamed Y.
Published: January 2024

This review provides a summary of the toxic effects of heavy metals on fish. In the aquatic environment, these metals are important pollutants and are found in all ecosystems and are found in large quantities. Some heavy metals such as Cadmium, iron, copper, zinc and lead have the advantage of accumulating in tissues and poisoning fish. These minerals can effectively affect biological processes, fish reproduction, impair the immune system, and cause pathological changes. Therefore, heavy metals play an important role as a vital predictor of pollutants affecting the health and life of fish environments. These minerals cause organ damage even at low levels of exposure, so they have recently been classified as carcinogens. For all the above-mentioned reasons, this review has been written to contribute to the role of heavy metals in the environment, the toxic mechanism, the toxic effects on fish and the health of the human consumption of fish. Also, this article reviews the Histopathological change and biomarkers when exposed to heavy metal contamination.
Acute Toxicity Effect of Mulsate (Glyphosate) Herbicide on Behaviour and Haematological Indices of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus Burchell 1822) Juvenile
Authors: JS Awoke
Published: January 2024

A semi-static bioassay method was used to study the toxicity effect of acute exposure of a commercial formulation of glyphosate herbicide (Mulsate) on the behaviour and haematological profile of Clarias gariepinus juvenile. Sample fish were exposed to lethal concentrations of mulsate at 0.00mg/l, 55.00mg/l, 65.00mg/l, and 75.00mg/l for 96 hours. Behavioural characteristics observed in exposed fish include respiratory distress, erratic swimming, loss of equilibrium, lethargies and sudden fish death. These varied greatly with differences in concentration of the toxicant. Mortality increased with an increase in concentration of the toxicant. The differences observed in the mortalities of C. gariepinus at varying concentrations were significant (P<0.05), an indication that mortality could be a factor of concentration and time of exposure. After 96 hr of exposure, the LC50 for mulsate glyphosate herbicide was found to be 44.67mg/l. Furthermore, the toxicant led to significant reduction (P<0.05) in haematological parameters as the toxicant concentration increased. Mean Red Blood Cells (RBC), Haemoglobin content (Hb), Packed Cell Volume (PCV), reduced as the concentration of toxicant increased. Mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH), and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC) were significantly different (P <0.05) between the treated and control fish. Our results indicate that the commercial formulation of glyphosate herbicide (Mulsate) is toxic to C. gariepinus. The herbicide must hence be applied with care in our environment particularly close to water bodies to avoid ecotoxicological consequences.
Monitoring Stress Biomarkers Anomalies of Ctenopharyngodon idella Valenciennes, 1844) Post-Exposure to Atrazine
Authors: Sultan Aamir
Published: January 2024

Grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) were exposed to a sublethal concentration of atrazine, specifically 0.03 µlL-1, for a period of 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 days. The study measured the DNA damage, cortisol and glucose concentrations, as well as hematological indices of the fish. These observations were compared to a parallel untreated control group to assess the effects of atrazine exposure. Fish showed uncoordinated behavior such as erratic and jerky swimming, frequent surfacing, irregular downward movements, loss of equilibrium, increase in the frequency of opercular movements, becoming exhausted and lethargic and bleeding at the base of the eyeballs. DNA damage and electrolytes (K+ , Cl- , Na+ ) concentrations in gills tissues depends upon the time of exposure as maximum the time of exposure so incremented DNA damage and electrolytes concentration were observed and vice versa. Similarly maximum incline in concentration at all duration of exposure were observed in Hb, RBC, TLC and lymphocyte while upturn in concentration of MCV at exposure for 12 days, MCH and MCHC at exposure for 9 and 12 days were reported. Decrement in concentration of platelet, neutrophils, monocytes and eosinophils against all groups were noticed with the gradually increment at exposure period of 12 and 15 days respectively. In conclusion, short and long-term exposure to atrazine at sub-lethal concentrations induces severe physiological alterations in C. idella that may potentially disrupt their survival in their natural habitat.
Evaluation of Teachers Pedagogical Method of Teaching Physics and Its Effects on Academic Performance of Physics Students in Senior Secondary School in South West Nigeria
Authors: Oluwaseyi Ojo Ezekiel
Published: January 2024

The study examines Teachers teaching method and its Effect on Academic performance of physics students in Senior Secondary Schools in South West Nigeria, with a view of improving effective teaching and learning of physics .This study is based on survey research design. The population comprised of all physics teachers in public secondary schools in Ekiti and Ondo States in South West Nigeria. The instrument used was Physics Programme Evaluation Questionnaire for Teachers (PAT) with a reliability coefficient r = (0.73) was obtained using Crumbach Alpha. One research hypothesis and one research question were posed to guide the study. Findings from this study revealed that majority of physics teachers in South West Nigeria often using recommended teaching method, and a significant relationship between teachers teaching method and academic performance of physics students. It is recommended that government should be given teachers symposium and regular work shop on the recommended teaching methods and provide teaching aids to facilitate effective teaching and learning of physics.
Analysis of Molecular Genetic, Morphometric and Sexual Characteristics of the Beluga (Huso huso L., 1758) Grown in the Aquaculture of the Republic of Belarus
Authors: AM Slukvin
Published: January 2024

The subject of the study was genetic and phenotypic characteristics of Beluga (Huso huso (Linnaeus, 1758)) grown in the warm and cold-waters aquaculture at the “Selets” fish farm (the Republic of Belarus). Molecular-genetic analysis was performed using STR-markers and species-specific PCR revealed the absence of hybrid individuals in analyzed broodstock of (Huso huso L.). Affiliation of individuals to the Caspian population was established based on the sequence analysis of the 367 bp region of mitochondrial D-loop. Using six STR loci, the population structure was analysed. The population structure and gene pool of the only broodstock of (Huso huso L.) in Belarus was compared with domesticated (H. huso L.) from the Russian Federation. The analysis showed a lack of genetic variation and the heterozygote excess in Beluga from the Belarusian farm. Analysis of morphometric indicators revealed that the conditions in which the Beluga broodstock is kept at the fish farm “Selets” should be improved. Using ultrasound scanning, the following stages of gonad maturity were established: stages II, III and IV in males; II, II semi-fatty, II fatty, III and IV in females. The Beluga broodstock at the fish farm “Selets” is mainly represented by females (the females exceeded the males by 1.6 times in terms of their number).
Innovative Approaches towards Utilisation of Clams
Authors: Balange Amjad
Published: January 2024

Clams are recognized as a valuable food source, and their consumption has grown worldwide. However, this increased consumption has also been associated with various cases of foodborne illnesses. This is primarily linked to the feeding behaviour of clams, as they are filter feeders and tend to accumulate harmful substances. This review paper examines different traditional and advanced methods for processing clams, encompassing thermal and non-thermal techniques. These methods are designed to effectively control harmful microorganisms and extend the shelf life of clam products, ensuring the safety and quality of clam meat for human consumption. The review covers traditional methods such as chilling, marination, fermentation, chelation, boiling, roasting, and more, as well as advanced technologies like Microwave-Assisted Induction Heating (MAIH), High Hydrostatic Pressure (HHP), and Retort Pouch Processing (RPP). Additionally, it explores the creation of value-added clam products. The comprehensive information presented in this article aims to raise awareness among consumers and processors about properly handling and processing this nutritious seafood resource, promoting safer and higher-quality clam products.
Precision Aquaculture with Inclusion of Commodity Smart Phones and Collective Learning
Authors: Rastegari Hajar
Published: January 2024

The rising demand for seafood has led to a growing interest in aquaculture, requiring careful attention to aspects of the cultivation process like stocking, feeding, and safeguarding against predators and disease for success. Precision aquaculture offers promising advancements, but its high initial costs pose challenges. Collective learning and smartphone technology provide accessible solutions for all farms to benefit from data-driven insights and collaborative disease management. Despite the potential long-term benefits in terms of production efficiency and resource management, full implementation of precision aquaculture remains economically infeasible for individual and small-scale farmers. However, there are some technologies such as collective learning and commodity smartphones that offer opportunities to benefit both precision and non-precision aquaculture farms, enhancing data-driven decision-making and collaboration.
Water Quality Plays an Important Role in the Socio-Economic Condition of the Local Community: A Study on the Kushiara River
Authors: Morshed Monjur
Published: January 2024

In Bangladesh around 7.5% of the fish is harvested from the rivers, being one of the main sources of fish in the country. The water quality of the river must be within standard values to maintain aquatic biodiversity. In this study, water quality, available spaces for fish, and socio-economic status of fishermen were analyzed to find their relationships in Kushiara River, Fenchuganj, Sylhet. Samples of water quality and fish species were collected from August 2017 to September 2021. At the same time, fishermen were surveyed to find out their economic status. The water quality analysis showed all the parameters analyzed (pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) and Total Dissolved Solid (TDS)) are within the range of international and Bangladesh standards for surface water. The pH, DO, BOD, COD, TDS was respectively 7.1-7.99, 5.5 mg/l to 8.4 mg/l, 1 to 4.6 mg/l, 17 to 32 mg/l, 30 to 70 mg/l. Where the local standard is 6.5-8.5, more than 5 mg/l, less than 6 mg/l, 17 to 32 mg/l for pH, DO and BOD. The international standard is less than 34.2 mg/l. and 30 to 70 mg/l for COD and TDS in that order. A total of 40 species of fish are recorded in 2017 and 49 in 2021. The average income of a local fisherman was 3 USD to 15 USD in the off pick season (December- February), and 7 USD to 30 USD in the peak season (September-November). The fish merchant’s daily income was 4 USD to 20 USD in the off-peak season and 7 USD to 30 USD in the peak season. So all fisher man, fish traders can spend their life by fish catching and fish trading. Due to fish production those people can earn money and can fulfill their daily needs. It is concluded that the water quality was adequate for fish diversity and to sustain the socioeconomic condition of the fishermen and fish traders in the Kushiara River.
Neural Stem Cells: How Far Can we Give Justice For Brain Diseases Therapeutics?
Authors: M Prabha
Published: January 2024

Neural stem cells are potential undifferentiated cells which are involved in regeneration of neurons and glial cells after transplantation in the treatment of brain diseases. If so how far we have reached the impact on various differentiated types of neural stem cells work especially to the world of medical neuroscience related to the fundamental concepts to Medical applications for brain diseases treatment. The mesenchymal stem cells are also have the capacity to regenerate the neural stem cells and involved in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Neural stem cells with neurotransmitters and enzymes are also involved towards the design of therapeutics for the brain diseases treatment. If so how do these stem cells behaves and solve the issues towards the different brain diseases treatment such as neurodegenerative diseases, Brain tumors, etc. can be briefly addressed to overcome the problems for better therapeutics.
Association of Tumor Necrosis Factor-α 308A/G Gene Polymorphism with Obesity among a Population of Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: OG Ayelagbe
Published: January 2024

Obesity often results from interplay of genetics, nutrition and lifestyle. A polymorphic variant of the Tumor Necrosis Factor-α (TNF- α) promoter region (308G/A) is associated with increased production of TNF- α protein, which could lead to fat accumulation implicated in the development of obesity and cardiovascular disease. This study investigated the association of TNF-α 308G/A polymorphism with obesity among a population residing in Southwestern Nigeria. Two hundred (200) obese and 197 age and sex matched non-obese subjects were enrolled. Blood pressure, weight, height, waist and hip circumferences were measured. Estimation of fasting blood sugar level, DNA extraction from whole blood and genotyping of single nucleotide polymorphisms of TNF-α 308G/A were done using standard laboratory procedures. Data were analyzed and p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Mean body weight and BMI were significantly increased in the obese group (81.92±1.00 kg, 33.01±0.25kg/m2) compared with controls (72.03±1.01 kg, 22.06±0.22kg/m2). Waist and hip circumferences were increased among obese subjects (p<0.05). Occurrence of A allele was higher (85.3%) than G allele (68.5%) among participants. Frequency of AA genotype was 51% (OR: 8.137, CI: 3.882 - 17.060, P=0.01) in obese subject and 11.34% in the non-obese, wild GG genotype was lower in obese (6%) than non-obese individuals (23.71%). Heterozygous AG occurred more in non-obese (64%) than obese (43%) subjects. Homozygous AA variant of TNF-α 308 is strongly associated with occurrence of obesity among the studied population. There was no association between GG variant of TNF-α -308 and obesity
Ameliorative Potentials of Boerhavia diffusa Ethanolic Leaf Extract on cypermethrin-Induced Reproductive Dysfunction in Wistar Rats
Authors: MA Omoirri
Published: January 2024

With rising global reports on reproductive and hematological health indicators, numerous animal based researches have more often focused on herbal-based medical remedies. In this study, the ameliorative potentials of ethanolic leaf extract of Boerhavia diffusa was investigated on reproductive and selected hematological variables in wistar rats [packed cell volume (PCV), total white blood cell count (TWBCC), total red blood cell (TRBCC) count and total Platelet count (TPC)]. Twenty five (25) female wistar rats (between 150-200 g) were procured and acclimatized for two weeks in the animal house of Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma, Edo State. The rats were then grouped into five (5) groups of five rats each (n = 5). While group I animals received standard rat chow and water at liberty (control), reproductive dysfunction was orally induced in group II rats, using 3.83 mg/kg bw of cypermethrin for 14 days. Groups III, IV and V received (orally) 200 mg/kg bw, 300 mg/kg bw and 400 mg/kg bw of Boerhavia diffusa extract (ethanolic) for five weeks respectively; haven also induced reproductive dysfunction. At the end of the period of administration, animals were euthanized under chloroform anaesthesia and blood sample obtained for hematological analysis, while also harvesting and observing the ovaries for histo-architectural changes. Results from one way analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a statistically significant (p < 0.05) dose-dependent increase in the PCV TPC and TRBCC levels of all groups compared to control, while TWBCC increased insignificantly across groups. More studies to corroborative the observations from this works highly recommended.
Morphometric Evaluation of Hard Palate in Indian Male and Female Skulls
Authors: M Subbaramaiah
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The palate is an integral part of head that forms the floor of the nasal cavity and the roof of the oral cavity. The knowledge of morphology and morphometry of hard palate is important for anatomists, dentists, anthropologists, and forensic experts. The aim of the present study is to describe the morphology and morphometric variations of the hard palate as seen in Indian male and female skulls. The observations made in the present study were compared with those in earlier studies on skulls belonging to different races. Materials and Methods: The study sample consists of adult Indian human dried skulls. Intact skulls of known sex with obliterated spheno-occipital suture were included in the study. Skulls with obvious pathological malformations were excluded from the study. The measurements of hard palate were taken using digital vernier calipers. The length, width and depth of palate were noted in male and female skulls at different sites and compared. Results: In the present study we found that there are significant differences between male and female palatal dimensions. These can be deployed to compare with other population. The size of palate is larger in males group than females and the average difference in the palatal depth is significantly higher in males than females this simply reflect the greater overall breadth of male skull in any given ethnic group Conclusion: Morphologic and morphometric knowledge of hard palate is advantageous in many fields of medical science. The present study based on Indian population of known gender can be used to compare data with other population.
History of the Evolution of Human Anatomy Textbooks and Atlases, from Antiquity to the Present Day
Authors: KA Bugaevsky
Published: January 2024

This article presents information, accompanied by many illustrations, thematically about the history and evolution of human anatomy textbooks and atlases, from antiquity to the present day. The textual information of the materials of the study conducted by the author of this article is rich and abundant, with scans-illustrations of many anatomy textbooks and atlases, from different historical periods and by different authors, from many countries of the world - both in black and white and in color. This research work will be the first of a series of similar works of the author, devoted to the history of development and formation of the science of both normal and pathological human anatomy.
Effect of Different Routes of Blood Collection on the Results of Liver and Kidney Function Test of Adult Wistar Rats
Authors: US Aguwa
Published: January 2024

Assessment of blood parameters is often used to monitor animal health and to determine the success of dietary and pharmacological intervention in preclinical animal models. It is important to consider whether hematological and metabolic measurements might differ in relation to different blood sampling sites at the time of blood collection. This research is aimed at evaluating the effects of the different routes of blood collection on the results of kidney function tests and liver function tests of adult Wistar rats. A total of 15 rats weighing 110g-150g were separated into three groups of 5 rats each and then allowed to acclimatize for 2 weeks. Blood was collected from group A using ocular puncture and from groups B and C through cardiac puncture and neck laceration mode of blood collection respectively. Liver function tests to determine serum levels of liver enzymes - aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and kidney function tests to determine the serum levels of urea and creatinine were carried out and the results recorded. Our results showed that the different routes of blood collection used have no effect on the serum level of AST, ALT, ALP, urea and creatinine. Hence, it is safe to say that the different routes of blood collection have no effect on the result of the kidney and liver function tests.