bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Social Work: African philosophies, frameworks and perspectives
Authors: Mushunje Mildred
Published: January 2024

Environmental social work refers to a collection of strategies and methods used by social workers to solve or prevent social problems or facilitate development using the environment in a reciprocal and sustainable manner. Issues of environmental social work have become very topical due to climate change and the need for environment-driven development. Climate change is an increasing global threat because it is contributing to catastrophic environmental crises such as floods, drought, veld fires, and extreme temperatures and hurricanes. These result in more social challenges, chief among these is poverty. This editorial provides three frameworks for environmental social work in the Africa: the indigenous, continental and grassroots. This is followed by a discussion of the environment in social work. The third section summarises the articles that are in Volume 13 issue 2. At the end, a model for environmental social work in Africa is offered.
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Mushunje, M. and Matsika, A. B. (2023). Environmental Social Work: African philosophies, frameworks and perspectives. African Journal of Social Work, 13(2), 48-56. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i2.1
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
An ecosocial work model for social work education in Africa
Authors: Tadesse Michael Emru , Obeng James Kutu
Published: January 2024

There is a growing call for social work to contribute to the international movement towards sustainability to address the interconnected multiple ecological, social, and economic crises created by the global capitalist hegemony. This call is important for African social work given vulnerable people in Africa are primary victims of unsustainability. In this paper, we propose a model of an ecosocial work course for African undergraduate social work education. This proposal is based on our earlier review of the Bachelor of Social Work curricula of 12 universities in four African countries to determine the extent to which ecosocial content were addressed. Our review indicated the absence of an ecosocial approach in the curricula. To fill this gap, we then designed a model of an ecosocial work course based on our international experience in social work, our ongoing studies on sustainability, and relevant literature regarding Africa. We hope this model will be adopted by social work programmes in different African universities and used to shape social work students who will deal with the interconnected multiple crises in their practice. We also hope that this proposal will help African social work play a crucial role in the sustainable development of the continent.
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Tadesse M. E. and Obeng J. K. (2022). An ecosocial work model for social work education in Africa. African Journal of Social Work, 13(2), 57-69. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i2.2
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Climate change and vulnerabilities of children in rural Zimbabwe: The case of ward 14 of Bikita District, Zimbabwe
Authors: Chikoko Witness , Chihiya Philemon
Published: January 2024

The paper interrogates the impact of climate change towards the vulnerabilities of children in rural Zimbabwe. The paper utilised qualitative case study research design so as to generate the empirical evidence for this paper and the Ubuntu or Hunhu philosophy was used as a theory for analysing and, interpreting the lives of these vulnerable children. Research findings suggest that the impact of climate change has been unprecedented on the lives of children in rural Zimbabwe. Some of the impact included; hunger and food insecurity, decrease in school attendance, early or forced marriages, sexual exploitation, gold panning, child labour and abuse, child prostitution, drug use and abuse, the spread of climate change related diseases among others. The paper concludes by lobbying and advocating the Government of Zimbabwe and other key stakeholders to invest more resources on climate proof and adaptation strategies particularly in rural areas.

How to reference using ASWNet style:

Chikoko W. and Chihiya P. (2023). Climate change and vulnerabilities of children in rural Zimbabwe: The case of ward 14 of Bikita District, Zimbabwe. African Journal of Social Work, 13(2), 78-86. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i2.4

Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Male youth leaders perceptions and experiences of young men's constructions of domestic violence against women and its prevention
Authors: Catazo Ntombizandile , Gwam Zukiswa , Terblanche Susan , Xweso Mzukisi
Published: January 2024

The conceptions of the male leaders described in this study starkly illustrate the prevalence of domestic violence in South African society, where it is endemic. Domestic violence is prevalent not only in South Africa, but also in Africa and other parts of the world. This study, which employed a qualitative research methodology, investigated, and explored the experiences of young men's constructs of domestic violence against women and its prevention. The study relied on Samkange’s theory of Ubuntu as its theoretical foundation. The purposefully chosen ten male leaders of Gqeberha in the Eastern Cape were subjected to semi-structured individual interviews. The data that the interviews generated were analysed by means of thematic analysis. The results made it clear that conceptions vary, and domestic violence is prevalent. Importantly, the essentials for social workers' advocacy engagements to stop domestic violence and empower women are drawn upon in an emphasis on the implications for social work practice. The study's conclusions, which are consistent with the social work profession's ability to educate and effectively guide society, emphasise the necessity of demystifying the constructs that perpetuates domestic violence.
How to cite this using ASWDNet style:
Catazo, N., Gwam, Z., Terblanche, S. and Xweso, M. (2023). Male youth leaders perceptions and experiences of young men's constructions of domestic violence against women and its prevention. African Journal of Social Work, 13(4), 197-206. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i4.3
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Simultaneous removal of methylene blue dye and waterborne pathogens from wastewater using extract of Embelia schimperi fruits
Authors: Tewabe Gebeyehu Belete , Gashu Tadesse Minbale , Tedla Abebe
Published: January 2024

In this study, we report the use of Embelia schimperi fruits’extract to simultaneously remove methylene blue dye and pathogens from wastewater. The extract of Embelia schimperi fruits was characterized by Atomic force Microscopy and Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy. The adsorption properties of the crude extracts of the fruits were explored as a function of dosage, contact time, pH, initial methylene blue concentrations, and temperature. As a result, the highest removal efficiency of methylene blue was found to be 99.2% at optimum conditions. The adsorption data demonstrated that the adsorption of Embelia schimperi followed the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.94899) and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 0.99326). Besides, crude extracts of the fruits showed significant antibacterial properties against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Agar diffusion tests confirmed that Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus were highly sensitive to the crude extracts of Embelia schimperi fruits, followed by Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. Thus, the findings of this study confirm the promising potential of Embelia schimperi fruits as a natural adsorbent used to remove methylene blue dye and pathogenic bacteria at the same time from wastewater.

KEY WORDS: Embelia schimperi, Adsorption, Isotherm, Kinetic, Methylene blue, Waterborne pathogens

 

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 281-296.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.1
Capturing of the copper(II) ions by several 4-aminoantipyrine Schiff bases: Synthesis, spectroscopic analysis, and decompsition of the resulted complexes into copper(II) oxide
Authors: O. Aljazzar Samar
Published: January 2024

Here we describe the synthesis and characterization of three Schiff bases based on 4-aminoantipyrine, ligand A, ligand B, and ligand C. Ligand A was synthesized by reacting 4-aminoantipyrine with hydrazine, ligand B by reacting 4-aminoantipyrine with ethylenediamine, and ligand C by reacting 4-aminoantipyrine with benzaldehyde and hydrazine. The synthesis of the desired Schiff base derivatives was successfully achieved, as confirmed by elemental analysis, Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C NMR) spectroscopy. The obtained experimental results exhibited excellent agreement with previously published data. To evaluate the reactivity of the synthesized Schiff bases in forming stable metal complexes, their reaction with copper(II) ions was examined. The results indicated that ligand A and ligand B effectively utilized the four nitrogen atoms (NNNN) from the 4-aminoantipyrine-N and azomethine-N groups to coordinate with copper(II) ions, while ligand C coordinated with the copper(II) ions using its four azomethine nitrogen atoms. Furthermore, the manufactured copper(II) complexes were subjected to thermal treatment in the air at 600 °C for 3 h, resulting in the successful generation of copper(II) oxide. Scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive X-ray analysis data demonstrated that the produced copper(II) oxide exhibited high purity and possessed a uniform and well-structured morphology.

KEY WORDS: Schiff bases, 4-Aminoantipyrine, Copper(II) ion, Thermal decomposition, SEM/EDX, Morphology

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 431-443.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.11
Synthesis of new azo compounds based on 4-aminosalicylic acid and study anti-corrosive activity
Authors: Abd Alrazzak Nour
Published: January 2024

New azo dyes were prepared from 4-amino-2-hydroxy-benzoic acid in two steps; the first step includes preparation the diazonium salt. Then, diazonium compound coupled with different aromatic compounds containing donating groups (orcinol, 2,6-dimethylphenol, hydroquinone, catechol, 1,2,4-triazole, 2-methyl-naphthol and 4-toluidine, respectively). The physical properties of synthesized compounds were studied like melting point and solubility. The target molecules were characterized using FTIR, NMR and CHNS techniques. The activity of the compounds 1, 3 and 5 as anticorrosion on carbon steel in 0.5 M HCl solution was studied using weight loss method at different times and two concentrations (0.003 M, 0.005 M) of inhibitors at 298 K. Compound 5 showed more inhibition efficiency and less weight loss at different concentration in comparison with compound 1 and compound 3.

KEY WORDS: Azo dye, 4-Aminosalicylic acid, Diazonium salt, Anti-corrosion

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 473-479.                                                            

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.14
Plant protein-mediated size-controlled synthesis of magnetite nanoparticles – Studies on optical properties
Authors: Kumar Das Amlan , Singh Solanki Vijendra , Fanan Apoorva , Agarwal Neha , Kumar Yadav Virendra
Published: January 2024

In today’s scenario nanotechnology has great importance in all scientific and non-scientific sectors. In this study, we have synthesized magnetite nanoparticles coated by the proteins available in the Datura leaf extract through a green and eco-friendly method. From the resulting spectrum obtained on Fe3O4 for different volumes of leaf extract of Datura leaf, the surface plasmon resonance seems to be varying with the volume of capping agent. The data shows that as the volume of capping agent increases the SPR value is shifted to red-end. The Eg values increase with the increasing volume of capping agents. The evaluated band gap (Eg) values are close to semiconductors (0-3 eV). The values indicate that the formed Fe3O4 nanoparticles are marginally semiconducting. The Eg values are found to be dependent upon the volume of the capping agent. The properties of nano-sized semiconductor particles depend on particle size. Here, the absorption peaks (λmax) are consistently increased giving rise to red-shift. The value of surface plasmon resonance shift confirmed that particle size is decreased.

KEY WORDS: Green synthesis, Magnetite nanoparticles (MNPs), Leaf extract, Band gap, Optical properties, Surface plasmon resonance

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 493-499.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.16
Geometry optimization and energy parameter calculations using density-functional theory method and molecular docking of anticonvulsant therapeutic metal complexes of gabapentin
Authors: Mohammed Alsuhaibani Amnah , S. Refat Moamen , Majid A. Adam Abdel , I. Kobeasy Mohamed , Y. El-Sayed Mohamed , A. Asla Kareem
Published: January 2024

This work aims to give computational studies of Mn(II), Co(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes of gabapentin (Gpn), formulized as [M(Gpn)(H2O)3(Cl)].nH2O complexes (where n = 2-6), using DFT method. They were previously synthesized and characterized. DFT calculations are in good agreement with practical studies. Bond lengths of metal complexes reduced or increased rather than that of ligand due to complexation. Bond angles of complexes predict the octahedral environment around the central metal ions predicting sp3d2 or d2sp3hybridization. The calculated energy parameters are negative indicating stability of metal complexes. The small energy band gap of compounds predicts the higher biological activity and high tendency of electron transfer. The comparable frequencies of theoretical and experimental IR may be attributed to different phases of measurement. The induced fit docking SP G-score of the molecular interactions of drug (Gpn) and its metal(II) complexes show that all investigated compounds have a good interaction towards sertonine receptor 5-HT2C and D2 dopamine receptor proteins. Co(II)-Gpn interacts with active site residues of sertonine receptor 5-HT2C with an excellent dock score of -7.370 kcal/mol and RMSD = 1.581 Å. On the other hand, Ni(II)-Gpn has the best dock score of -6.638 kcal/mol and RMSD = 1.995 Å with D2 dopamine receptor.

KEY WORDS: Gabapentin, Transition metals, DFT-method, molecular docking

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 511-526.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.18
Theoretical study on glucose and methylamine Maillard reaction: formation of the Amadori rearrangement products
Authors: Huan Weiwei , Du Hongchen , Pan Rongkai , Li Jie , Feng Lijuan
Published: January 2024

In the present study, the mechanism of Maillard reaction was investigated using density functional theory calculations. Glucose and aminomethane were used as initial reactants in this study. The calculations show that the Amadori rearrangement reaction is the rate-controlling step with a corresponding energy potential of 402 kJ/mol，the enthalpy change is 219 kJ/mol, which is an endothermic reaction and therefore energy needs to be supplied from outside if the reaction is to proceed. The calculated results are in good agreement with the previous findings and can provide insight into the reaction mechanism of the Maillard reaction. These findings will help further research and find out the correct reaction mechanism.

KEY WORDS: Food chemistry, Mechanism, Transition State, Computational chemistry

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 539-545.                                                               

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.20
Synthesis, characterization and theoretical aspects of copper and zinc divalent ion complexes with azo dye derived from 4,5-diphenylimidazole
Authors: Taha Saad Suad
Published: January 2024

Azo dye ligand derived from 4,5-diphenyl imidazole and 4,4-diaminodiphenylmethane was synthesized by diazomium coupling reaction. In this reaction an amine (4,4-diaminodiphenylmethane was converted to the diazonium salt and coupled with 4,5-diphenyl imidazole. The bright coloured Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes with this ligand were synthesized by refluxing the latest with both metals chloride salts. The prepared compounds were characterized by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR, FTIR, UV-Visible, molar conductivity and atomic absorption. By the infrared data, the coordination between copper and zinc ions and the azo ligand achieved through the nitrogen of the azo group and one of the nitrogen atoms in the imidazole ring. By the molar conductivity test, the non- electrolytic nature of both complexes was also confirmed. The suggested structure for these complexes is octahedral. Using density functional theory (DFT) some theoretical data was obtained for the synthesized complexes. The obtained data include the highest occupied and the lowest unoccupied molecular orbitals energy (HOMO and LUMO), electron density, thermodynamic functions (ΔG°, ΔS°, ΔH°, ΔE°), ionization potential (IP), electron affinity (EA), electrophilicity(ὠ),  electronegativity (En),  chemical hardness (η) and dipole moment (μ). According to these studied parameters some properties of the two complexes were explained and discussed.

KEY WORDS: Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes, Azo ligand, 4,5-Diphenylimidazole, 4,4-Diaminodiphenylmethane, Theoretical study

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 313-323.                                                           

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.4
Antioxidant novel activities of curcumin complexes with Mg(II), Ca(II), Cu(II), Cr(III) and Se(IV) metal ions: synthesis and spectral studies
Authors: M. El-Megharbel Samy , H. Qahl Safa , Althobaiti Khaled , H. Al-Thubaiti Eman , Z. Hamza Reham
Published: January 2024

Curcumin (Cur) metal complexes of Mg(II), Ca(II), Cu(II), Cr(III), and Se(IV) were prepared and characterized using elemental analysis, molar conductance, IR, UV-spectra, 1H NMR, SEM, TEM, and X-ray diffraction. The very low values of molar conductance confirm that Cl- ions are absent inside or outside the chelation sphere confirming their non-electrolytic nature, while for Cr(III) Cur is high compared to other curcumin complexes, confirming that Cl- ions are inside the complexation sphere. Based on IR and electronic spectra, the Cur C=O group in enol form chelated to Mg(II), Ca(II), Cu(II), Cr(III), and tetravalent metal (Se). The surface morphology of the curcumin chelates showed an increase in particle size and irregular grains shaped with an elongated morphology. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the Cur chelates have spherical black spots like shape with a particle size of 72.21-88.75 nm, 34.89-57.33 nm, and 80.71-100 nm for Cu(II), Zn(II), and Se(IV) Cur respectively. X–ray powder diffraction patterns for Cu(II) Cur complexes showed particle size within 70-90 nm; the antioxidant activities of Cur and its metal complexes were assessed. Results showed that the Cur complexes with Cr, Mg, Ca, Cu, or Se showed potent antioxidant activities. Further studies could evaluate the potency of these complexes to elevate the antioxidant defense system and enhance body functions against degenerative diseases, such as aging, Alzheimer's disease, and viral diseases.

KEY WORDS: Curcumin, Mg/Cur, Cu/Cur, Se/Cur, Electronic spectra, Antioxidant, Oxidative stress

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 347-363.                                                              

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.6
Synthesis, chemical characterization, and biological investigation of naturally isolated hesperidin and its metal complexes
Authors: A.M. Abdelgawad Ahmed , A.I. El Bassossy Taha , A. Ahmed Fatma
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted to investigate the ability of hesperidin (HES) to form metal-complexes (HES-M) by chelation with transition metals such iron(III), copper(II), zinc(II), and silver(I), in addition to screen the antioxidant activity (DPPH free radical scavenging and phosphomolybdenum reduction potential methods PRP), anti-Alzheimer activity [(acetylcholinesterase (AChE)] inhibition assay) and coagulant activity (prothrombin time PT assay). The results indicated that HES could form a 1:1 complex with the studied metals in methanolic solution. The complex has been synthesized and characterized by physicochemical methods. Complexing of hesperidin with metals leads to increase in the antioxidant activity by 15.4-33%. Also, the total antioxidant capacities of HES-M complexes were increased by 13.8-251%. Cu-complex revealed the most increasing antioxidant activity by 33% for DPPH scavenging activity and 251% for PRP activity. The inhibition capacity of the HES, as well as of the HES-M complexes on the enzyme AChE, was revealed that only HES-Zn complex has higher anti-Alzheimer activity (IC50 1.18 mg/mL). HES and HES-M complexes led to accelerate the clotting time by 28.9-67.3%, where HES-Zn complex was the most accelerating clotting time by 67.3%. The high increase in total antioxidant activity of hesperidin after chelating with copper (251%) opens the door for further research.

KEY WORDS: Hesperidin, Metal ions, Complexation, Antioxidant, Anti-Alzheimer, Coagulant activity

Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2024, 38(2), 385-395.                                                          

DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v38i2.8
Evidence-Informed Policy Making in the Ethiopian Health System: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Workicho Abdulhalik
Published: January 2024

No Abstract
Investigation of the anti-salmonellal and antiplasmodial properties of leaf extracts of Rourea coccinea Beninese medicinal plant
Authors: Kpadonou-Kpoviessi Bénédicta , Goueti Basile , Agnimonhan Hyacinthe , Kemzeu Raoul , Atchade Bardieu , Toukam Paul Djouonzo , Ahoussi Léon , Kpoviessi Salomé
Published: January 2024

Rourea coccinea, also called Byrsocarpus coccineus is a medicinal plant widely used in primary health care in West Africa and in this case in Benin. In the present study, the hydroethanolic extract of these leaves was investigated for its anti-salmonella and antiplasmodial properties. The evaluation of anti-salmonella activity was carried out by the micro dilution method associated with resazurine while that of antiplasmodial activity by method described by Syber Green. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the hydroethanolic extract against Salmonella strains were higher than 2000 μg/mL. This extract was active against multidrug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains (PfDd2) with an inhibitory concentration (IC50) of 32.26 μg/mL. These works on Rourea coccinea justify that the plant has a clearly remarkable antiplasmodial activity rather than anti-salmonella one and its use in traditional medicine to treat malaria in Benin.
A comparative analysis of blood-borne infections among sickle cell anemia patients and first-time donors in Gabon
Authors: Bisseye Cyrille , Mba Jean Marie Eko , Mba Thiery Ndong , Bie StÃ©phane Meyet Me , Ndong Jophrette Mireille Ntsame , Parkouda Soulemane , Nagalo Bolni Marius , Mombo Landry Erick
Published: January 2024

Managing sickle cell disease often requires transfusions, exposing multi-transfused sickle cell patients to a heightened risk of transfusion-transmitted infections. This study aimed to assess the seroprevalence of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) in multi-transfused sickle cell patients and first-time donors in Libreville. The serological testing for HBsAg, anti-HIV, and anti-HCV antibodies was conducted using commercial enzyme immunoassays and confirmed by the COBAS modular analyzer (Roche Diagnostics). The seroprevalence of HIV, HCV antibodies, and HBsAg was 4%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, in multi-transfused sickle cell patients and 5%, 0%, and 8% in first-time donors. Interestingly, HIV and HBsAg seroprevalence were similar in both groups, indicating that transfusion was not associated with these infections. However, HCV antibody seroprevalence was significantly higher in multi-transfused sickle cell patients than in first-time donors (10% vs. 0%, p<0.001). Furthermore, the presence of anti-HCV antibodies in multi-transfused sickle cell patients was significantly associated with the number of donations received (7.20±2.37 vs. 3.96±2.06, p=0.042). These findings suggest that while blood transfusion is not a significant risk factor for HIV and HBsAg transmission, it may increase the risk of HCV transmission, particularly in multi-transfused sickle cell patients.
La candidose vaginale et les pratiques intravaginales : cas des femmes de l’Hôpital de District d’Efoulan
Authors: Essome Marie Chantal Ngonde , Mansour Mohamadou , Yimga Grace
Published: January 2024

Les pratiques intravaginales sont courantes chez les femmes de par le monde et exposeraient ces dernières à de nombreuses infections génitales. Le but de notre étude était d’évaluer la prévalence et la contribution des pratiques intravaginales dans l’acquisition de la candidose vaginale. Les 187 femmes recrutées dans notre étude étaient soumises à un questionnaire comportant les données socio démographiques, les habitudes de pratiques intravaginales. Un prélèvement vaginal a été effectué, puis l’écouvillon a été ensemencé sur la gélose Sabouraud Chloramphénicol pendant 24 h. Nos résultats ont montré que 88.77% des femmes s’adonnaient aux pratiques intravaginales. La répartition des femmes d’après les caractères socio démographiques a révélé que les femmes du Centre (40,96%), celles âgées de [25-31] ans (33,13%), de niveau universitaire (49,39%) s’adonnaient plus aux pratiques intravaginales. Dans notre étude 27,27% de femmes présentaient une candidose vaginale. Les femmes qui faisaient plus des pratiques intravaginales étaient plus exposées à la candidose vaginale. Des études sur un échantillon plus grand de femmes devraient être menées car ces pratiques pourraient les exposer à de nombreuses infections génitales par destruction des lactobacilles protecteurs de la cavité vaginale.

Intravaginal practices are common among women around the world and would expose them to genital infections. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence and contribution of intravaginal practices in the acquisition of vaginal candidiasis. The women were submitted to a questionnaire including socio-demographic data and habits of intravaginal practices. A vaginal sample was taken, then the swab was inoculated on Sabouraud Chloramphenicol agar for 24 hours. Of the 187 women present in the study, 88.77%, performed intravaginal practices. The distribution of women according to socio-demographic characteristics showed that women from the Center (40.96%), those aged [25-31] years (33.13%), of university level (49.39%) were more performing intravaginal practices. In our study we found a prevalence of 27.27% of vaginal candidiasis. Women who performed intravaginal practices were more exposed to vaginal candidiasis. Our study showed that many women in Cameroon perform intravaginal practices. Study on a larger sample should be carried out because these practices could expose them to genital infection by destruction of lactobacilli.
Stabilité physico-chimique de la suspension buvable extemporanée de la névirapine à base de CMCNa et de la gomme xanthane
Authors: Namegabe Lucien Murhula , Sarr Serigne Omar , Fall Djibril , Diop Yerim Mbagnick
Published: January 2024

La névirapine est un médicament antirétroviral important couramment utilisé pour traiter le virus de l'immunodéficience humaine (VIH). Elle se trouve sous plusieurs formes posologiques. Les formes orales liquides pausent souvent un problème de stabilité surtout après ouverture des bouchons. Cette étude visait à formuler extemporanément et de déterminer la stabilité physico-chimique des suspensions buvables de névirapine préparées avec de la gomme xanthane (GOX) et le carboxyméthylcellulose sodique (CMCNa). Les suspensions ont été formulées à 10,0 mg/ml et conservées après conditionnement à deux températures différentes (4°C et 25°C). La stabilité a été étudiée par spectrofluorimétrie et chromatographie liquide haute performance (CLHP). La SCMCNa a fourni une excellente stabilité physique et chimique tout au long de la période d'étude. Il n'y a eu aucun changement du pH tout au long de la période d'étude et les concentrations de névirapine sont restées supérieures à 95% à 4°C et 25°C. Les concentrations de la SGOX sont restées supérieures à 90% pendant 17 jours à 25°C, tandis qu'à 4°C, les concentrations sont restées supérieures à 90% pendant toute la période de l'étude. La suspension buvable extemporanée de névirapine a été proposée sous forme de formulation flexible pour les patients ayant des difficultés à prendre la forme solide.

Nevirapine is an important antiretroviral drug commonly used to treat the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is available in several dosage forms. Liquid oral dosage forms often have stability problems, especially after opening the cap. The aim of this study was to formulate extemporaneously and determine the physicochemical stability of nevirapine oral suspensions prepared with xanthan gum (GOX) and sodium carboxymethylcellulose (CMCNa). The suspensions were formulated at 10.0 mg/ml and packaged at two different temperatures (4°C and 25°C). Stability was studied by spectrofluorimetry and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). SCMCNa provided excellent physical and chemical stability throughout the study period. The pH showed no variation and the concentration of nevirapine remained above 95% at 4°C and 25°C throughout the study period. However, SGOX gave concentrations below 90% after 17 days at 25°C, while at 4°C, the concentration remained above 90% throughout the study period. The extemporaneous oral suspension of nevirapine has been proposed as a flexible formulation for patients who have difficulty taking the solid form.
Serotype and genotyping of Salmonella sp. isolated from street foods in N’Djaména, Chad
Authors: Mayoré Atéba Djibrine , Bodering Alain , Bako Evariste , Bessimbaye Nadlaou , Gandolo Richard , Tidjani Abdelsalam , Barro Nicolas
Published: January 2024

Group foodborne illness infections with Salmonella are often caused by the simultaneous consumption by several people of heavily contaminated food. The objective of this work was to determine the phylogenetic relationships between dietary strains of Salmonella sp. isolated from our samples and confirmed clinical strains. A total of 447 samples were collected and analyzed using standard food microbiology methods. Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus-Polymerase chain Reaction (ERIC-PCR) technique allowed confirmation that all our strains belong to the genus Salmonella. From ten (10) strains characterized, eight (8) different genotype profiles were identified. The different DNA fragments of the isolates were generated by ERIC-PCR and then revealed on the agarose gel and had bands ranging from 2 to 6 bands with sizes between 150 and 1500 bp. The two food strains of S. Mbadaka (1 and 2) presented identical profiles. However, it is noted that two (2) strains of S. Anatum had different ERIC-PCR profiles. There is also a very high resemblance between the strain of S. Anatum (strain 5) and the confirmed clinical strains (H5: Salmonella Typhi). The presence of risky germs in the food analyzed poses a public health problem and should call on the competent authorities and prompt the taking of corrective measures.
Evaluation de la qualité des eaux de forage de la commune de Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
Authors: Sawadogo Adama , Cisse Hama , Tapsoba François , Kagambega Boureima , Zongo Oumarou , Ouedraogo Laurencia , Zongo Cheikna , Savadogo Aly
Published: January 2024

L’eau est un élément vital pour tous les êtres vivants. Elle peut provenir de plusieurs sources dont les forages. Les eaux de forage sont souvent exposées à de nombreuses contaminations, elles peuvent donc présenter un risque pour la santé des consommateurs. Ainsi, cette étude s’était fixée pour objectif d’évaluer la qualité physico-chimique et microbiologique des eaux de forage de la commune de Ouagadougou. Pour cela, des prélèvements ont été effectués au niveau de 14 forages. Les caractéristiques des échantillons prélevés ont été déterminées en utilisant des méthodes spectrophotométrique, titrimétrique, volumétrique, colorimétrique et microbiologique. Les résultats des analyses physico-chimiques ont montré que tous les échantillons présentaient des valeurs conformes aux normes pour 11 des paramètres étudiés. Aucun échantillon ne présentait une température conforme. De plus, quelques échantillons présentaient des valeurs non conformes pour le pH et le taux de chlore libre. Les analyses microbiologiques ont révélé une absence de streptocoques fécaux dans tous les échantillons. Les coliformes étaient absents dans la plupart des échantillons sauf dans celui de Sandogo (SASE6) (4 UFC /100 ml et 2 UFC /100 ml respectivement pour les coliformes totaux et fécaux). Selon la norme OMS, les échantillons d’eaux étudiés sont de qualité microbiologique satisfaisante sauf l’échantillon SASE6.

Water is a vital element for all living beings. It can come from several sources including boreholes. Boreholes water is often exposed to many contaminations, so it can pose a health risk to consumers. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate the physico-chemical and biological quality of borehole water in the municipality of Ouagadougou. For this purpose, samples were taken from 14 boreholes. The characteristics of the samples taken were determined using spectrophotometric, titrimetric, volumetric, colorimetric and microbiological methods. The results of the physico-chemical analyses showed that all the samples presented values in conformity with the standards for 11 of the studied parameters. None of the samples had a temperature value in conformity with the standards. In addition, some samples showed non-compliant values for the pH and the free chlorine level. Microbiological analyzes revealed an absence of faecal streptococci in all samples. Coliforms were absent in most of the samples except in that of Sandogo (SASE6) (4 CFU/100 ml and 2 CFU/100 ml respectively for total and faecal coliforms). According to the WHO standard, the water samples studied are of satisfactory microbiological quality except for the SASE6 sample.
Effet de la substitution graduelle de la farine de graine du cultivar RDC de Cajanus cajan sur la croissance des poulets de chair de souche Coob 500
Authors: Missoko Richard Mabeki , Dimi Silvère Ngatse , Amboua Olendekah Issengue , Akouango Parisse
Published: January 2024

Ce travail visait à évaluer les effets de l’incorporation des graines du cultivar RDC de Cajanus cajan dans les rations sur les performances de croissance, les caractéristiques de la carcasse des poulets de chair au Congo. Pour réaliser cette étude, 48 poussins de deux semaines d’âge ont été répartis selon un dispositif complètement randomisé en 4 lots de 12 sujets chacun correspondant à quatre types de rations expérimentales contenant respectivement 0, 7, 14 et 21% de farine de graines de Cajanus cajan en substitution graduelle du tourteau de soja. Chaque lot a été subdivisé en deux sous-lots de 6 sujets. La consommation alimentaire a été mesurée journalièrement et les pesées des sujets de façon hebdomadaire. Les résultats obtenus ont montré que l’’incorporation de la farine de graines de Cajanus cajan a diminué la vitesse de croissance, la consommation et l’efficacité alimentaire des sujets proportionnellement au taux d’incorporation de cette farine. Cependant, elle n’a entrainé aucun effet néfaste significatif sur les caractéristiques de la carcasse et des organes des poulets de chair à 7 semaines d’âge. De même, cette incorporation n’a induit aucune coloration jaune de la peau et de la graisse abdominale des carcasses des oiseaux comparés aux sujets témoins. Ces résultats ont montré que l’utilisation de la farine de graines du cultivar RDC de Cajanus cajan pourrait être incorporées dans l’alimentation du poulet de chair à des teneurs allant jusqu’à 14% pour réduire les coûts de productions au Congo.

This work aimed to evaluate the effects of incorporating seeds of the DRC cultivar of Cajanus cajan into rations on growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens in Congo. To carry out this study, 48 two-week-old chicks were distributed according to a completely randomized design into 4 batches of 12 subjects each corresponding to four types of experimental rations containing respectively 0, 7, 14 and 21% of seed flour. Cajanus cajan as a gradual replacement for soybean meal. Each batch was subdivided into two sub-batches of 6 subjects. Food consumption was measured daily and the subjects' weighings were measured weekly. The results obtained showed that the incorporation of Cajanus cajan seed flour reduced the growth speed, consumption and feed efficiency of the subjects proportionally to the rate of incorporation of this flour. However, it did not cause any significant adverse effects on the characteristics of the carcass and organs of broilers at 7 weeks of age. Likewise, this incorporation did not induce any yellow coloring of the skin and abdominal fat of the bird carcasses compared to control subjects. These results showed that the use of seed meal from the DRC cultivar of Cajanus cajan could be incorporated into broiler feed at levels of up to 14% to reduce production costs in Congo.
Effects of temperature variation on yield and quality of field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus) and black soldier flies (Hermetia illucens)
Authors: Korir Leonard C. , Ronoh Erick K. , Ondimu Stephen N. , Kinyuru John N. , Gicheha Mathew G.
Published: January 2024

Insect rearing provides an affordable alternative source of animal nutrition for most small-scale farmers. However, current rearing technology with uncontrolled environmental conditions suppresses insect yields, leading to low adoption of insect production. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of temperature variation, using an adaptive control structure, on the yield of field crickets (Gryllus bimaculatus) and black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens). Temperature values of 25°C, 27°C, and 30°C constant relative humidity of 50%, and constant air speed of 3 m/s were adopted for the study. Throughout the study, weighing of the insect wet yield was done on a daily basis for larvae and after three days for cricket pinheads. Black soldier fly larvae and adult crickets were harvested at the ages of two weeks and six weeks, respectively, and oven dried at 105°C for 24 hours for subsequent analysis of proteins. Results indicated that black soldier fly larvae reared at 25°C, 27°C, and 30°C had a maximum mean wet yield of 0.216 ± 0.022 g, 0.234 ± 0.019 g, and 0.248 ± 0.016 g, respectively, at the age of two weeks. Similarly, crickets reared at 25°C, 27°C, and 30°C had a mean yield of 0.807 ± 0.167 g, 0.933 ± 0.102 g, and 1.306 ± 0.254 g at the age of six weeks. Dried cricket reared at 25°C, 27°C, and 30°C had 25.566 ± 0.012%, 46.811 ± 0.647%, and 58.216 ± 1.510% protein, respectively. Contrary to this, black soldier flies reared at 25°C, 27°C, and 30°C yielded 42.655 ± 1.732%, 47.121 ± 0.015%, and 62.536 ± 0.014%, respectively. Larval yield recorded significant different yields (f = 4.935, p = 0.03), whereas crickets failed to record significant different yields (f = 0.777, p = 0.388) under different temperature levels. A higher temperature regime yielded higher body mass and protein turnover. The findings of this study boost the future prospects of insects as food and feed for enhancing food and nutrition security.
Usawiri wa taswira za ngono katika nyimbo za Bongofleva: mifano kutoka nyimbo teule za WCB
Authors: Lucas Christopher B.
Published: January 2024

Nyimbo hizi huakisi masuala mbalimbali katika jamii. Ngono ni suala mojawapo ambalo huakisiwa katika nyimbo za Bongofleva. Aidha, suala la ngono katika jamii za Kiafrika huchukuliwa kuwa jambo la siri na si la kusema hadharani. Hali hii imewafanya wasanii wa Bongofleva kutumia taswira katika kusawiri masuala ya ngono. Hata hivyo, taswira za ngono zinazotumika katika nyimbo za Bongofleva bado hazijulikani kwa sababu hazijatafitiwa na kuwekwa wazi. Kwa hiyo, makala hii imelenga kuchunguza jinsi taswira mbalimbali zinavyosawiri masuala ya kingono katika nyimbo za Bongofleva. Data za makala hii zilikusanywa kutoka katika nyimbo teule za WCB1 kwa kutumia mbinu ya usikilizaji makini na utazamaji wa video za nyimbo teule kutoka katika mtandao wa YouTube. Data hizo zilifafanuliwa na kuchambuliwa kwa kutumia mkabala wa kitaamuli, tukiongozwa na Nadharia ya Semiotiki. Matokeo ya utafiti yameonesha kuwa nyimbo za Bongofleva hutumia taswira mbalimbali za ngono zinazoakisi tendo la ngono na viungo vya ngono. Kwa ujumla, usawiri wa taswira za ngono katika nyimbo za Bongofleva haupaswi kuchukuliwa katika mrengo mmoja tu, yaani hasi, kwani kuna wakati hutumika kutoa elimu ya mahusiano ya kijinsia kwa jamii.
Annual Committed Effective Doses of Primordial Radionuclides and Excess Lifetime Cancer Risk to the Consumers of Some Foodstuffs in Lagos, Southwest of Nigeria
Authors: Sowole Olusegun , Aliyu Sadudeen
Published: January 2024

Food plays vital role in the survival of man as it provides necessary nutrients to the body in orderto carry out the daily activities and also to be in good health. Activity concentrations of 40K,238Uand 232Th in some foodstuffs from three highly rated markets in Lagos, Southwest of Nigeriahave been determined by gamma spectrometry method using NaI (TI) detector coupled with a preamplifierbase to a multiple channel analyzer (MCA). Fifteen (15) samples of maize flour, yamflour, beans, cassava flour and rice were randomly purchased from the markets: Ketu, Oyingboand Ikeja. The highest activity concentrations for 40K, 238U and 232Th were 153.47 ± 10.34 Bqkg−1, 9.26 ± 2.17 Bq kg−1 and 15.36 ± 4.05 Bq kg−1, respectively, all from yam flour. The meanconcentrations of 40K for all the samples were obtained to be 102.33 ± 7.04 Bq kg−1, 5.79 ± 1.35Bq kg˗1 for 238U and 9.15 ± 2.36 Bq kg−1 for 232Th. The average annual committed effective doseof all the natural radionuclides to the consumers of the foodstuffs was determined to be 0.144 mSvyr−1 and average excess lifetime cancer risk to the consumers was determined to be 0.503 x 104.The values obtained were below the worldwide limits of 1 mSv yr−1 and 0.29 x 10−3,respectively, which indicated that consumption of the foodstuffs had no significant negativeradiological health risks to the consumers.

Keywords: Radionuclide; Activity concentration; Foodstuff; Dose; Gamma spectrometry;
Levels and Exposure Risks of Lead, Arsenic and Mercury from Selected Lipstick and Nail Polish Cosmetics Marketed in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Authors: Kulwa Gerald , Mihale Matobola
Published: January 2024

Presence of Pb, As and Hg in selected lipstick and nail polish cosmetics sold at different shopping malls and retail outlets in Dar es Salaam was determined by microwave plasma atomic emission spectrometry due to their public health effects. Pb was detected in 100% (n = 25) of lipsticks and 53.3% (n = 15) of nail polishes. Arsenic was detected in 36% of lipsticks and 86.7% of nail polishes, and Hg was detected in 44% of lipsticks and 80% of nail polishes. All metal levels in both cosmetics were below the World Health Organisation (WHO) and Tanzania Bureau of Standards (TBS) maximum recommended limits. Health-based risks were evaluated using chronic daily intake (CDI), non-carcinogenic hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI) as well as carcinogenic total risk. CDI values in all cosmetics were lower than maximum tolerable daily intake (MTDI). HQs of all metals in most of the lipsticks and all nail polishes were < 1, indicating little health risks. Both HI and carcinogenic risk were lower, indicating that they are relatively safe and have little potential carcinogenic risk. Determined potential carcinogenic risks were lower, indicating little carcinogenic risk. Awareness of potential effects and continuous monitoring are recommended to raise awareness of consumers and control quality of cosmetics as metals are cumulative toxicants.

Keywords: Heavy metal; lipstick; nail polish; Tanzania; cosmetics;
Security Model for Tracking Creation of Mobile Money Using Transport Layer Security Protocol
Authors: Rwiza Sigsbert , Kissaka Mussa , Kapis Kosmas
Published: January 2024

Mobile Network Operator (MNO) financial service model has security vulnerabilities in addressing verification of cash and mobile money. For instance, monthly returns are transferred in plain text from banks and MNOs to financial regulators. This may result to failure of financial regulators in detecting creation of fake mobile money. This study was conducted to develop a security model for tracking creation of mobile money using Transport Layer security protocol as a way of protecting returns in transit from banks and MNOs to financial regulators. The proposed model was developed using insights from literature, function decomposition and composition techniques and was tested by prototyping the system for tracking creation of mobile money using Laravel PhP framework, apache webserver, JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) server and PhP programming language. The proposed model has eight components, namely; certificate authority, financial regulator server, bank server, MNO server, bank system, mobile money system, super-agent and mobile money issuer components.

Keywords: Security Model; Public Key Infrastructure (PKI); Tracking Creation; Transport Layer Security;  Mobile Money;
Coal Exploration using Electrical Resistivity Method in Some Parts of Benue Trough, Nigeria
Authors: Olatunji Saminu , Jimoh Abdulgafar
Published: January 2024

Geoelectrical resistivity sounding technique was used to delineate the occurrence and extents of coal seam. Fifteen points were sounded with Schlumberger configuration in the suspected coal deposit site bounded by longitudes 7.344° E and 7.366° E, and latitudes 7.318° N and 7.33° N. The vertical electrical sounding (VES) data were analyzed and the corresponding geo-electric parameters at various depths were modeled. The earth model within the study area was correlated with available lithology of a nearby mine site. The sounding signatures are KQHK and KHK curve types which revealed five to six distinct geo-electrical equivalent layers. The wet to dry sandy topsoil has resistivity range of 300–1000 Ωm and average thickness of 1.5 m. Next is a layer with higher resistivity range (1000–20000 Ωm). This layer, which extends to 14 m depth, is considered probably to be laterite, patched with sand in some places. Underlain this is a shale formation that laterally sandwiched the coal seam. The thickness and resistivity range of the coal seam is 1.5–3.4 m and 778–103000 Ωm, respectively, while the shale domain has resistivity range of 99–898 Ωm. Therefore, it could be concluded that the coal seam occurrence take shale as host rock in the area and the largest deposit appeared at the Eastern part of the area.

Keywords: Benue trough; Resistivity; Electrical sounding; Coal seam; Overburden