bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ADHESION OF BACTERIA AND DIATOMS TO THE EXOSKELETON OF THE HARPACTICOID COPEPOD Tigriopus fulvus IN CULTURE: ELECTRON AND EPIFLUORESCENT MICROSCOPE STUDY
Authors: Pane L. , De Nuccio L. , Pruzzo C. , Carli A.
Published: August 2022

In marine environments microrganisms can survive as free forms or bound to animate and inanimate surfaces (1,2). The microbial colonization of an organic substratum is a very complex phenomenon; the initial event in biofilm formation is the collision (random collision or chemotaxis) between microrganisms and surface. This is followed by the adhesion of picoplankton to the organic substratum (3). [...]
ASPECIFIC ALKALINE PHOSPHATASE OF AMPHIBIA INTEGUMENT LEVAMISOLE EFFECT ON SHORT CIRCUIT CURRENT (SCC)
Authors: Dare B. , Donna D. , Andreoletti G. E. , Savardi L. , Lodi G.
Published: August 2022

For years, the frog skin has been the guiding model for ion transport processes in animal celfs energized by a Na+-motive force. In fact, frogs are faced with various osmoregulatory problems, such as compensation of salt and water loss or metabolic acidification. Being exposed both to air and to pond water of low salinity in their natural habitat, the epithelium of the frog skin serves as one of the major organs for body fluid homeostasis. [...]
CULTURES AND THERMAL ANALYSIS OF THE MARINE MICROALGA TETRASELMIS SUECICA KYLIN (BUTCH)
Authors: Pane L . , Franceschi E. , De Nuccio L. , Carli A.
Published: August 2022

Thermogravimetry ( TG) and differential thermal analysis ( DT A) are widely used to characterize several biological materials such as biomolecules , cells and tissues ( 1 , 2). In particular, while the former measures the variation of mass from a sample as a function of temperature , the latter records the ent halpy accompanying physico-chemical changes of substances subjected to temperature variations. Besides, these techniques can bring structural and thermodynamic information not only on the starting samples , but also on substances that originate in the thermal cycle. However , there are few ecological studies which involve thermal analysis. [...]
Scaffold protein MAPK8IP2 expression is a robust prognostic factor in prostate cancer associated with AR signaling activity
Authors: Huang Jian , Liu Wang , Lin Bi-Yun , Li Jean C , Lu Jane , Li Ben-Yi
Published: August 2022

Mitogen-activated protein kinase-8-interacting protein 2 (MAPK8IP2) is a scaffold protein that modulates MAPK signal cascades. Although MAPK pathways were heavily implicated in prostate cancer progression, the regulation of MAPK8IP2 expression in prostate cancer is not yet reported. We assessed MAPK8IP2 gene expression in prostate cancer related to disease progression and patient survival outcomes. MAPK8IP2 expression was analyzed using multiple genome-wide gene expression datasets derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) RNA-sequence project and complementary DNA (cDNA) microarrays. Multivariable Cox regressions and log-rank tests were used to analyze the overall survival outcome and progression-free interval. MAPK8IP2 protein expression was evaluated using the immunohistochemistry approach. The quantitative PCR and Western blot methods analyzed androgen-stimulated MAPK8IP2 expression in LNCaP cells. In primary prostate cancer tissues, MAPK8IP2 mRNA expression levels were significantly higher than those in the case-matched benign prostatic tissues. Increased MAPK8IP2 expression was strongly correlated with late tumor stages, lymph node invasion, residual tumors after surgery, higher Gleason scores, and preoperational serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels. MAPK8IP2 upregulation was significantly associated with worse overall survival outcomes and progression-free intervals. In castration-resistant prostate cancers, MAPK8IP2 expression strongly correlated with androgen receptor (AR) signaling activity. In cell culture-based experiments, MAPK8IP2 expression was stimulated by androgens in AR-positive prostate cancer cells. However, MAPK8IP2 expression was blocked by AR antagonists only in androgen-sensitive LNCaP but not castration-resistant C4-2B and 22RV1 cells. These results indicate that MAPK8IP2 is a robust prognostic factor and therapeutic biomarker for prostate cancer. The potential role of MAPK8IP2 in the castration-resistant progression is under further investigation.
Sero-prevalence of Hepatitis B virus surface antigen and associated factors among women of reproductive age in Bench Maji Zone, Southwest Ethiopia: community based cross-sectional study
Authors: Sayih Belay Alemayehu , Shewasinad Yehualashet Sisay , Derseh Abateneh Dejene , Mitiku Kebede Kindie
Published: August 2022

Background: Hepatitis B virus infection is one of the leading causes of liver diseases which occurs worldwide particularly in developing countries. It is often caused by prenatal transmission from mother to child or household transmission from a close contact during early childhood. It causes different complications like; jaundice, induces premature labor, and prematurity.

Objective: The aim of this study was to estimate the sero-prevalence of hepatitis B virus surface antigen and associated factors among women of reproductive age in Bench Maji Zone, South West Ethiopia.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from December 15th, 2016 to February 15th, 2017. Multistage sampling technique was applied to select study participants. Logistic regression analysis was applied and p-values < 0.05 was used to see the significant association between dependent and independent variables.

Results: A total of 330 participants were included in this study yielding 98.8% response rate. The sero-prevalence of HBsAg among women of reproductive age was 28(8.5%). Having multiple sexual partners (AOR = 18.73, 95% CI =3.65, 96.21) history of unprotected sex (AOR = 9.39, 95% CI =1.64, 53.77) were found to be significantly associated with sero-prevalence of HBV.Conclusions: The sero-prevalence of HBV infection among women of reproductive age was highly endemic. Hence, behavioral education and communication programs focusing on reduction of risky sexual behaviors should be designed to reduce HBV infection.

Keywords: Ethiopia; Hepatitis B virus; Hepatitis B surface antigen; women; Reproductive age.
Management of Helicobacter pylori among medical doctors working in Khartoum, Sudan 2019: a cross-sectional study
Authors: A Abbas Azza , I Sulieman Bushra , M Malik Elfatih
Published: August 2022

Background: Various international guidelines have been developed regarding Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) management, as it is infecting more than half of the world's population. Sudan's health system lacks guidelines regarding H. pylori management, leading to a discrepancy in practice. Investigating the current approach could be a step forward in the formulation of a national consensus in the management of H. pylori.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical doctors currently working in Khartoum, Sudan. Participants were enrolled from platforms of medical associations through an online questionnaire. The questionnaire was scored out of 25 points, and scoring 13 or above considered a good approach. Data analysis was carried out using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).

Results: A total of 358 medical doctors participated in the study. The mean (±SD) score was 12.9(±4.5). Those who were using textbooks, campaigns, symposiums or general medical information to their primary Source of knowledge significantly scored higher. The most selected indication for both diagnosis (76.8%) and treatment (67.6%) was an active peptic ulcer. Stool antigen test (SAT) was the most preferred test (70.7%). The majority of respondents selected triple therapy (82.1%) as a first-line regimen. Only 37.7% confirmed the eradication after four weeks of stopping the treatment. They ensure eradication mainly through SAT (29%).

Conclusion: A suboptimal approach was noted among medical doctors of Khartoum, Sudan, regarding H. pylori management. Efforts should be invested in forming national guidelines and the implementation of continuous medical education programs.

Keywords: Helicobacter pylori, Medical doctor, Sudan.
Prevalence and factors associated with Helicobacter Pylori infection among children with sickle cell anemia attending Mulago hospital, in Uganda
Authors: Swaleh Mubiru Idris , G Kasirye Phillip , Hume Heather , Ndeezi Grace
Published: August 2022

Background: Children with sickle cell anemia (SCA) have a high predisposition to a range of infections and gastrointestinal disorders. Studies of children living in low income countries have shown high levels of infection with Helicobacter Pylori (H.pylori), however, there are no reports in Ugandan children with SCA.

Objectives: We aimed to describe the prevalence and factors associated with H. pylori infection among children with SCA at Mulago Hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 340 children with SCA aged 5-18 years. Assessments included recurrent abdominal pain(RAP), dyspeptic symptoms, relevant medical and social histories. Stool samples were collected and an antigen test carried out to determine H. pylori infection. H. pylori prevalence and its associated factors were determined.

Results: Helicobacter pylori infection was detected in 49%(168/340); (95%Confidence interval (CI): 44.1, 54.7) of the study subjects. Having epigastric pain was independently associated with H. pylori infection; (Adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 1.89; 95%CI: 1.1, 3.6; p= 0.048). Pneumococcal vaccination; (aOR=0.425; 95%CI: 0.2, 0.9; p=0.019) and appetite loss; (aOR=0.588; 95%CI: 0.3, 0.9; p=0.046) were negatively associated with H. pylori infection. RAP was not associated with H.pylori infection.

Conclusions: H. pylori infection was common among children with SCA and independently associated with epigastric pain but not recurrent abdominal pain. Pneumococcal vaccination and appetite loss were protective against the infection. Screening for H. pylori should be carried out in SCA children with epigastric pain.

Keywords: Recurrent abdominal pain; Sickle cell anemia; Dyspeptic symptoms.
Prevalence of extended spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing Klebsiella species from patients’ specimens in a tertiary teaching hospital in Ile-Ife, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: Esther Ajimuda Omolola , Sanmi-Kayode Ikeoluwa , Oyinkansola Adeniyi Oluwagbeminiyi , Olayemi Alaka Olubunmi , Onipede Anthony
Published: August 2022

Objective: This study determined the prevalence of ESBL genes amongst Klebsiella species isolated from patients’ specimens attending a Tertiary Teaching Hospital, in Ile-Ife, Southwest Nigeria.

Methods: A cross sectional study of presumptive isolates of Klebsiella (n=180) were collected, after ethical approval in the microbiology laboratory. Isolates were identified to species level by conventional biochemical tests and MicrobactTM 24E Identification Kits. Antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by the Kirby Bauer’s disk diffusion method. ESBL production was detected by the double disc synergy and ESBL genes by the multiplex PCR protocol.

Results: The Klebsiella species identified were Klebsiella pneumoniae 95.6%, Klebsiella oxytoca 3.3%, Klebsiella ornithinolytica 0.6% and Klebsiella terrigena 0.6%. The prevalence of ESBL genes among the Klebsiella isolates was 47.2% , and the most common ESBL gene was blaSHV (38.9%), also 75% of the study isolates had MAR index greater than 0.2.

Conclusions: The study establishes the prevalence of Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase producing Klebsiella sp in the hospital and identified the most prevalent ESBL genes circulating as blaSHV followed by blaTEM and blaCTX-M in this environment. This underscores the need for regular and continuous surveillance of antimicrobial resistance trend as a strong component of the antibiotics stewardship and infection prevention and control programs in the hospital.

Keywords: Antibiotic Resistance; Klebsiella; ESBL.
Effectiveness and compliance to the use of sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine as a prophylaxis for malaria among pregnant women in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Onoja Helen , O Nduka Florence , E Abah Austin
Published: August 2022

Background: Malaria during pregnancy escalates the damaging consequence to the mother and neonate. The usage of intermittent preventive treatment of malaria (IPTp) with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (SP) is recommended for averting the deleterious consequences of malaria in pregnancy. This study evaluated the effectiveness of, and compliance with the use of SP for malaria among pregnant women in Port Harcourt Rivers State, Nigeria.

Method: A total of 300 samples of maternal peripheral blood (MPB), 84 neonatal cord blood (NCB) and 84 placental blood (PLB) were collected from consenting mothers. Malaria parasitaemia were analysed using standard parasitological methods, and bio-data of consenting mothers were collected through questionnaires and from ANC records.

Results: Out of the samples examined for MPB, 59(19.7%) tested positive to malaria. Those with only primary education (57.1%) and women of age ≤ 20yrs (25%) had higher prevalence. Women who took SP had significantly lower prevalence (17.6%) than those that took other drugs (36.4%) (p < 0.05). Malaria prevalence was highest among women who had 3 months interval between each dose (39.1%), followed by those of 2months (23.7%) and those of 1 month (7.0%) (p < 0.05). The primigravidaes (22.8%) had an insignificantly higher prevalence than secundigravidae (19.4%) and multigravidae (15.9%). Also, 30.5% of women who registered in their third trimester of pregnancy had a significantly higher malaria parasitaemia than those who registered during their first 8.10%, or second trimesters, 19.4%. Of the 84 MPB-NCB-PLB pairedamples examined, 16.7%, 8.3% and 25% respectively were infected with malaria parasitaemia. On frequency of compliance, mothers who took SP once (37.5%) had a significantly higher MPB parasitaemia than those who took it twice (7.84%) and those of thrice (6.25%). Neonatal cord blood parasitaemia prevalence revealed that those that took SP once, that is, 25%, had a higher prevalence than others like those of twice (5.88%) and thrice (0%) respectively.

Conclusion: The use and compliance of SP reduced the prevalence of malaria among pregnant women and their new-borns.

Keywords: Compliance; Sulphadoxine-Pyrimethamine; Pregnant women; Malaria Parasitaemia.
IL-4 gene polymorphisms and their association with nematodes infection in Pakistani population
Authors: Afshan Kiran , Sarfraz Khola , Kayani Tooba , Firasat Sabika
Published: August 2022

Background: Interleukin-4 (IL-4) plays a central role in the humoral immune defense against nematode parasite infections, inducing IgE switch and regulation of worm expulsion from the intestines. The present study aimed to investigate the polymorphisms in IL-4 gene and their association with socio-demographic and environmental factors among patients with gastrointestinal complaints.

Method: The screened population comprised 305 patients aged 3-50 years from Rawalpindi and Jhelum districts of Pakistan. A well-prepared questionnaire was administered to collect data on socio-demographic and environmental factors. The data were analyzed by using multiple logistic regression models. Molecular analysis was done on 88 confirmed cases passing worms and eggs in stool by using PCR to amplify IL-4 gene.

Results: The result showed higher GI nematodes prevalence in Rawalpindi 34.87% and Jhelum 23.1% among gastrointestinal patients. The multivariate logistic regression model showed significantly (p<0.05) increased risk of infection in participants who were residing in rural areas (OR=321.94; 22.5), having poor economic status (OR=0.34), consuming raw/unwashed vegetables (OR=1.73; 15.39) and did not practice handwashing (OR=2.77; OR=0.30). Sequence analysis showed three novel polymorphisms at SNP g.704_705 ins T, g.3763_3764 ins AC and g.3792 G >A in patients with acute severe infections. Two known polymorphisms SNPs g.8455A>G and g.8492C>A were found in the intron region.

Conclusion: IL-4 gene polymorphisms showed disease susceptibility and consuming raw/unwashed vegetables, poor handwashing practices and poor economic status were the most associated factors with the disease.

Keywords: Interleukin-4; SNPs; Nematodes; Risk Factors; Pakistan.
Prevalence and determinants of cardiac arrhythmias and conduction anomalies in adults aged ≥ 40 years in Jimma Town, Southwest of Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Tadesse Bukata Iyasu , Tegene Elsa , Gobena Teshome , Markos Woldesenbet Yohannes
Published: August 2022

Background: The prevalence of cardiac arrhythmia (CA) in the Ethiopian population is unknown. A community study was conducted to assess the magnitude and predictors of CAs in adults aged≥40 years in Jimma Town.

Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Jimma town from May to July 2017. A total of 634 adults aged 40 years or older were selected using a systematic sampling technique from six kebeles of the Town. Study participants were screened for CA using a 12-lead ECG machine. Face-to-face interviews, anthropometric, important clinical measurements were performed. Data analysis was done using SPSS for windows version 21.0.

Results: A total of 634 study participants, significant CA occurred in 217 individuals (34.2%). Conduction abnormalities and sinus bradycardia were the commonest findings (25.4%). Premature beats (ventricular 1.9%, atrial 1.1%) and atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia (2.1%) were the next most frequent arrhythmias. Arrhythmias were independently associated with smoking(AOR=1.9;P=.047), hypertension(AOR=1.5;P=.02), heart failure(AOR=2.06;P=.023), prior stroke(AOR=4.9;P=.001), previous history of MI(AOR=1.78;P=.039), vigorous intensity activities(AOR=0.56;P=.024), solidified vegetable oil consumption (AOR=3.5;P=.004), and occupation(pensioner, none)[AOR=1.7;P=.017].

Conclusions: CA is highly prevalent in Jimma. Hypertension and history of heart diseases are the most potent predictors of cardiac arrhythmia. Large-scale screening for early detection of arrhythmia has important implications for treatment.

Keywords: Cardiac arrhythmia; prevalence; pisk-factors; 12-lead ECG; Jimma Town.
Central laboratory and point-of-care cardiac marker testing capacity of tertiary hospitals in Nigeria – a multicenter study
Authors: Angela Meka Ijeoma , Otokunefor Ochuko , Ene Asuquo , Olalekan Ojo Olugbenga , Manu Mohammed , Chidiebere Okwara Emmanuel , Oshi Daniel , Chukwuka Ugonabo Martin , Adagiri Yahaya Isah
Published: August 2022

Background: Cardiovascular diseases are major contributors to morbidity and mortality. It is generally recognized that cardiac markers are of particular benefit in the evaluation of patients with suspected Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS). Tertiary hospitals, mainly teaching hospitals, are expected to be optimally equipped to offer these services. The study therefore aimed at determining the central laboratory and point-of-care cardiac marker testing capacity of tertiary hospitals in Nigeria.

Method: A cross-sectional survey was carried out in government-owned tertiary hospitals in Nigeria. Data were collected using semi-structured self-administered questionnaires, and analyzed using Stata version 13 (Stata Corp., USA).

Results: A total of 34 hospitals participated in the study. The mean (SD) age of respondents was 43.68 (5.2) years. A total of 19 (55.88%) hospitals were found to have a functional cardiac marker testing facility, either in the form of point-of-care, central laboratory testing or both. Of those without a facility, lack of funds to procure equipment was the major reason given. In hospitals with a testing facility, most testing devices were located in the Central laboratory.

Conclusion: Cardiac marker testing capacity of tertiary hospitals in Nigeria, both in the form of point-of-care and central laboratory testing, was found to be barely adequate. Improvement is needed in this area for better diagnosis and evaluation of patients who need the tests.

Keywords: Cardiac marker; tertiary hospital; testing capacity; Nigeria.
Ultrasonographically detected hepatosteatosis independently predicts the presence and severity of coronary artery disease
Authors: Yılmaz Aykut , Yılmaz Fevzi , Beydilli İnan , Müge Sönmez Bedriye , Duyan Murat , Özdemir Metin , Komut Seval , Aksoy Yüksel
Published: August 2022

Objectives: The aim of our study was to evaluate the association between the presence and severity of CAD and NAFLD.

Methods: The study group consisted of 153 patients who underwent coronary angiographies. Patients were categorized into CAD and non-CAD groups. CAD severity was determined by the number of CAD-involved arteries and the vessel score multiplied by Gensini score, the latter judging CAD severity. Fatty liver was diagnosed by abdominal ultrasonography (USG), with the patients being categorized by the degree of hepatosteatosis, as Grade 0, Grade 1, and Grade 2-3.

Results: Among the whole study population, 47.1% of patients (n=72) were female and 52.9% of patients (n=81) were male. Forty-three patients had normal coronary arteries; 27 patients had non-critical CAD and side branch disease; and 83 patients had clinically significant CAD (stenosis>50%). The rate of CAD and Gensini score were significantly different between Grade 0, 1 and 2-3 hepatosteatosis groups (p<0.05). Patients with CAD had a significantly higher AST level than those without (p< 0.05).

Conclusion: Ultrasonographically detected hepatosteatosis independently predicts the presence and severity of CAD.

Keywords: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease; gensini score; obesity.
Lack of FLT3-ITD in Tunisian childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Frikha Rim , Abdellaoui Nawel , Kassar Olfa , Rebai Tarek
Published: August 2022

Background: The fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene belong to the class III receptor tyrosine kinases witch is predominantly expressed on hematopoietic progenitor cells, and plays an important role in haematopoiesis. Targeting the FMS-like tyrosine kinase receptor-3 (FLT3) in acute leukemia is mainly important. Therefore, activating mutations in FLT3, primarily the FLT3-internal tandem duplication (FLT3-ITD), was used as a prognostic marker especially in myeloid leukemia; however, in ALL, the prognostic relevance of FLT3 mutations is less clear.

Objectives: This study was conducted to evaluate the frequency of FLT3-ITD mutation in Tunisian childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and to correlate this mutation with prognostic parameters.

Methods: Genomic DNA was extracted from EDTA-anticoagulant blood samples from a total of 25 children suffering from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). After DNA extraction, the polymerase chain reaction using specific primers was conducted to screen the FLT3-ITD.

Results: In acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), 9 cases with LAL-B were detected and the median age is 13 years. Chromosome abnormalities were detected in 5 with ALL and are correlated with worse prognosis (very high risk and relapse). At molecular lever, never FLT3-ITD was detected.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that FLT3 mutations are not common in Tunisian childhood ALL and thus do not affect clinical outcome.

Keywords: Fms-like tyrosine kinase 3; internal tandem duplication; acute lymphoblastic leukemia.
Risk and protective factors associated with depression in young people: what do Nigerian university students know?
Authors: Anosike Chibueze , O Adibe Maxwell , U Igboeli Nneka , E Onwukwe Uchechukwu , L Okwume Chikaodili
Published: August 2022

Background: University students appear to experience a significantly higher rate of depression compared to the general population. However, there is limited data showing how much Nigerian university students know about the risk and protective factors related to depression.

Objectives: To assess the knowledge of risk and protective factors associated with depression in young people among students of a Nigerian university.

Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted among simple randomly selected students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Two validated self-administered questionnaires were used for data collection. Descriptive statistics and multivariate binary logistic regression were used for the data analysis.

Results: Out of 1591 participants, about 47% and 60% had good knowledge of risk and protective factors related to depression, respectively. The course of study, year of study, contact with a depressed person, and personal experience of depression significantly predicted students’ knowledge of risk factors for depression. Similarly, course of study, year of study, and gender were the significant predictors of students’ knowledge of protective factors against depression.

Conclusions: The students had good knowledge of protective factors against depression, but were poor in knowledge of its associated risks. Therefore, provision of mental health services in the universities is recommended.

Keywords: Depression; risk; protective factor; knowledge; university students; Nigeria.
Factors impacting sustainability of community health worker programming in rural Uganda: a qualitative study
Authors: Ashaba Scholastic , Tumuhimbise Manasseh , Beebwa Esther , Oriokot Francis , L Brenner Jennifer , Kabakyenga Jerome
Published: August 2022

Background: Despite significant global progress towards decreased child mortality in past decades, maternal and child mortality continues to be high, especially in sub Saharan Africa. Most of these deaths are preventable with known interventions. Community health workers (CHWs) are well-positioned to promote these life-saving interventions; however, sustaining CHW programs remains a challenge.

Methods: A sustainability-focused qualitative evaluation, was done between July and August 2018 in 2 rural districts in southwest Uganda. Using semi-structured interview tools, we conducted 6 Focus Group discussions (FGDs) with CHWs and 17 indepth interviews (IDIs) with various district stakeholders to gain insights into factors affecting sustainability of a district-wide maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH)-oriented CHW intervention. Data was managed using NVivo software (version 12) with themes using thematic analysis.

Results: Identified factors impacting CHW program sustainability included ‘health system effectiveness’ (availability of supplies, medicines and services and availability of facility health providers), CHW program-related factors’ (CHW selection and training, CHW recognition), ‘community attitudes and beliefs’ and ‘stakeholder engagement’.

Conclusion: To sustain CHW programs in rural Uganda and globally, planners, policymakers and funders should maximize community engagement in establishing CHW networks and strengthen accountability, supply chains and linkages with communities and health facilities

Keywords: CHWs programs; sustainability; maternal newborn; child health, Uganda.
Use of exchange blood transfusion in the management of severe COVID-19 infection in pregnancy: experience from Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Bukola Afolabi Bosede , Chigozie Makwe Christian , Sharafadeen Okunade Kehinde , Nurudeen Akanmu Olanrewaju , Ephraim Akase Iorhen , Otokiti Oluwakemi , Bolarinwa Abiola , Ezenwankwo Francis , Olalekan Oyeleke Gabriel , Nkolika Ezenwa Beatrice , Martins-Akinlose Oluwaseun , Ogundare Titus , Iloka Augustine , Sulaimon Akanmu Alani
Published: August 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) presents with symptoms that may be mild or severe. The individual with the severe form of thedisease usually presents with a constellation of respiratory symptoms typical of acute respiratory distress syndrome. In this report, wepresent our experience of the successful management of an oxygen-dependent pregnant woman with severe COVID-19 infection whohad 2 sessions of partial exchange blood transfusion. We discussed the principles that informed this intervention and the need to adoptthis novel approach in the care of severe COVID-19 infection.

Keywords: ARDS; COVID-19; EBT; Exchange blood transfusion; pregnancy; Nigeria.
Comparative evaluation of in vitro antioxidant potential of Punica granatum L. leaves extracts
Authors: Ali Javid , Rehman Inayat ur , Shah Jehangir , Bangash Javed Abbas , Ilyas Muhammad
Published: August 2022

A comparative evaluation of tannins, flavonoid, phenol quantification and antioxidant potential of aqueous, methanol, n-hexane, acetone and chloroform extracts of Punica granatum leaves were determined. Quantification of phenolic was carried out by the technique of Folin-Ciocalteau, using rutin as standard flavonoids were evaluated through the technique of colorimetry, tannin was measured by the difference of total phenolics and free phenolics assay procedure. Antioxidant activities were evaluated by four standards antioxidant techniques including Superoxide dismutase (SOD)-like activity, Hydrogen Peroxide (H2O2) scavenging activity,1, 1’-diphynyl- 2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) activity and Nitric oxide (NO) scavenging activity method using ascorbic acid as standard. The antioxidant activities showed that methanol extract at 500μg/mL calculated maximum DPPH inhibition activity was 78±1%, H2O2 scavenging activity was 90±0%, SOD-like activity was 88±0% and NO scavenging activity was 90±0%. The outcomes indicated the major antioxidant actions were carried out by the extract of methanol; the entire potential was increased in the directive of methanol> chloroform> acetone>aqueous>n-hexane extracts. The results indicate that Punica granatum leaves extracts to have potent antioxidant activities that would have beneficial effects on human health and methanol extracts are superior with better antioxidant potential. The leaves extracts of Punica granatum could be of enormousattention in the enhancement of top value-added secondary products and the appliance of functional and green substitutes in thecosmetics, food and pharma industries.
Evaluating capability of a bivariate zero-inflated poisson process
Authors: Pal Surajit , Gauri Susanta Kumar
Published: August 2022

A zero-inflated Poisson (ZIP) distribution is commonly used for modelling zero-inflated process data with single type of defect, and for developing appropriate tools for instituting statistical process control of manufacturing processes. However, in reality, such manufacturing scenarios are very common where more than one type of defect can occur. For example, occurrences of defects like solder short circuits (shorts) and absence of solder (skips) are very common on printed circuit boards. In literature, different forms of bivariate zero-inflated Poisson (BZIP) distributions are proposed, which can be used for modelling the manufacturing scenarios where two types of defects can occur. Control charts are designed for monitoring for such processes using BZIP models. Although evaluation of capability is an integral part of statistical process control of a manufacturing process, researchers have given very little effort on this aspect of zero-inflated processes. Only a few articles attempted to evaluate the capability of a univariate zero-inflated process and no work is reported on evbaluating capability of a bivariate zero-inflated process. In this paper, a methodology for measuring capability of a bivariate zero-inflated process is presented. The proposed methodology is illustrated using two case studies.
Economics of Smoked Farmed Catfish in Kainji Lake Basin, Nigeria
Authors: Omeje Julius Emeka , Achike Anthonia Ifeyinwa , Jimmy Samuel Preye , Manuwuike Queen Mercy
Published: August 2022

The study examined economics of smoke Catfish in Kainji Lake Basin, Nigeria. Random sampling technique was used to select 80 farmed-catfish processors from 20 communities. Primary data were collected through interview schedule and presented using percentages, mean, and 2-stage least square regression analysis. Results showed that the use of local oven (banda kilns) constitute the majority (at least 67%) of the method used in fish smoking. Roles such as gutting, folding, salting/brining, setting of fire and fish monitoring were mostly performed by the women, while the men and youths supply fire woods as well as fish arrangement on racks. The average gender ratio between the men, women and youths was 0.80,  indicating a near gender equality in terms of value of fixed assets, revenue, employees and wage. Profitability indicators showed that smoke fish  processing is a viable business with return on investment of 11.71 % for the men, 9.99 % for the women and 8.48 % for the youths respectively. The  major determinants of netincome were age, experience and initial capital investment. Hence, it is recommended that the processing industry  should be strengthened through subsidy on improved smoking kilns to enable processors produce high quality processed farmed catfish.
Cassava [Manihot Esculenta (Crantz)] Germplasm for Effective Conservation
Authors: Egbadzor K.F.
Published: August 2022

An experiment was conducted to characterize the cassava germplasm of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, Plant Genetic Resources Research Institute (CSIR-PGRRI), Ghana to help in effective conservation. A total of 210 cassava accessions being conserved at the field genebank of the CSIR – PGRRI were used for the experiment in October, 2014 and data collected in October, 2015 on five morphological traits comprising of plant height, growth type, height of first branch, levels of branching and branch angle. The five traits revealed variability among the cassava accessions. Based on the variability, the 210 accessions were classified into four categories namely short-spreading, tall-spreading, short-non-spreading and tall-nonspreading. Four different planting distances were suggested for the different groups for effective conservation. The recommended planting distances were 75 x 75 cm, 75 x 100 cm, 100 x 100 cm and 100 x 150 cm groups based on height and spreading nature of the cassava accessions. Cassava accessions from different planting distances groups should not be planted adjacent each other to avoid suppressing of weaker ones.
Fungal Endophytes in Shelf Life Extension of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Fruits
Authors: Obiazikwor O.H. , Oribhabor G.O. , Omokpagha A. S.
Published: August 2022

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is one of the most popular and widely consumed vegetables worldwide. However, tomato fruits are of a highly perishable nature, with a short shelf life of between 12 to 72 hours. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of fungal endophytes in shelf-life extension of tomato fruits. Fungal endophytes were isolated from healthy leaves and fruits of tomato and identified. Shelf life extension of the tomato fruits was carried out by soaking the fruits in the broth cultures of the test endophytes for an hour. The control reatment was soaked in sterile distilled water. The isolated fungal endophytes were identified as Aspergillus ochraceus (from fruit) and Aspergillus niger (from leave). The results obtained show that the endophytes have potential in shelf life extension of the treated fruits. At day 2, all the fruits treated with the test endophytes were very marketable compared to the control that had 66.6 % moderately marketable and 33.3 % of the fruits marketable. At day 4, all (100 %) of the fruits treated with Aspergillus niger were very marketable and very firm compared to the other treatments. The findings from this study suggest that the isolated endophytes have potential in the shelf life extension of tomato fruits. Sample B (Aspergillus niger) seems to be more effective than Sample A (Aspergillus ochraceus) in extending the shelf life of the fruits. The mode of action of the test endopohytes should be further investigated. Quality and safety assessment of fruits preserved using endophytes should be further investigated. Future research should aim at extracting bioactive compounds from endophytes that can be used in shelf life extension of fruits.
Microbiological Safety of Toasted Ukwa (African Breadfruit) Snack Sold in Aba, South-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Arukwe D.C. , Onugha F.C. , Ike E. A.
Published: August 2022

A microbiological assay was conducted to assess consumer safety of toasted ukwa (African breadfruit) snack in the Aba metropolis, South-eastern Nigeria. The microbial loads, isolation and identification were carried out by the spread plate agar dilution method. Results indicated that the counts of bacteria ranged from 3.12-7.22x103cfu/g. The fungal counts ranged from 2.11- 5.48x103cfu/g while coliforms were detected in some of the market samples with values ranging from 0.00-0.16x103cfu/g. Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., Streptococcus spp Klebsiella spp. were bacteria isolated from the samples. Aspergillus niger, Fusarium spp., Mucor spp. and Aspergillus flavus were the isolated fungi. No Escherichia coli or other significant pathogens produced by food were identified from the samples. Coliform (Aerobic colony counts) were lower than the International Food Standards (≥ 105cfu/g) and the absence of microbial food-borne pathogens makes these ukwa samples safe for consumption.
Physiochemical and Sensory Evaluation of Cookies Produced from Composite Flours of Wheat, Bambara Nut and Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato
Authors: Ubbor S. C. , Arukwe D. C. , Ejechi M. E. , Ekeh J. I.
Published: August 2022

This study aimed at investigating the use of wheat, Bambara nut and orange fleshed sweet potato composite flours in the production of cookies. Enriched cookies were produced using wheat, Bambara nut and Orange Fleshed Sweet Potato flour blends in the ratios: 100:0:0, 90:5:5, 90:0:10, 80:10:10 and 80:5:15 and were labeled BVB, ACC, LVG, BCN and CFC respectively. Sample BVB (100% wheat flour) served as the control. The functional properties of the flour blends were determined, as well as the proximate and beta-carotene (pro-vitamin A) composition of the cookies. Also, the physical parameters and sensory qualities of the enriched cookies were evaluated. The moisture content, protein, fat, fibre, ash and carbohydrate ranged from 5.70 to 8.57%, 9.62 to 11.93%, 11.02 to 13.02%, 2.33 to 4.03%, 1.23 to 1.54% and 63.33 to 68.79% respectively. The energy value ranged from 405.46 to 420.03 k/cal. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the functional properties of the flour blends. The result also revealed that the β-carotene (pro-vitamin A) increased with increase in substitution of orange fleshed sweet potato. The results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in physical properties of the cookies in weight, diameter, break strength, density and volume while there were no significant differences (p>0.05) in thickness and spread ratio. The sensory analysis indicated that all the samples had high level of acceptability in their sensory attributes, but sample BVB and ACC had the best overall acceptability ratings of 7.50 and 7.10 respectively. Therefore, enriched cookies produced from the blends were acceptable.
Work Facets Predicting Overall Job Satisfaction among Teachers in Selected Secondary schools in Ibadan South-West Nigeria: A Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire Survey
Authors: Ibikunle M.A. , Afolabi R.F. , Bello S.
Published: August 2022

Background: Global measures are often used to assess employees’ job satisfaction. However, important information is lost when this approach is  adopted. The use of multidimensional approach provides robust information for potential intervention. This study aimed to assess the work facets  predicting the overall single-item job satisfaction measure among teachers in Ibadan, Nigeria.

Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted among 476 secondary school teachers selected using a multistage sampling  method. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection while data was analyzed using SPSS version 26. The Minnesota Satisfaction  Questionnaire (MSQ) and a single-item satisfaction measure assessed satisfaction. A linear regression model of the overall job satisfaction was developed. P-value ≤ 0.05 was regarded as statistically significant.

Results: The mean age of respondents was 38.1±9.0 years. Majority of respondents were females 263 (55.3%) and married 363 (76.3%). The  respondents expressed above average satisfaction with all work facets except compensation 161 (33.8%) and work conditions 223 (46.8%). The work  facets which significantly predicted overall job satisfaction included: supervision-human relations (β = 0.121: 95% CI = 0.013 to 0.229; p = 0.028);policies & practices (β = 0.111: 95% CI = 0.021 to 0.201; p = 0.016); compensation (β =0.125: 95% CI = 0.035 to 0.214; p = 0.006) and recognition (β = 0.113: 95% CI = 0.006 to 0.220; p = 0.039)

Conclusion: Overall job satisfaction was mostly predicted by factors extrinsic to the job, so these could be specifically targeted for interventions to  improve job satisfaction among teachers.
NOTE: Return to Port St Johns
Authors: Pringle Ernest L.
Published: August 2022

Changes in butterfly populations at Port St Johns between 2015 and 2021 are recorded and discussed.
Phylogenetic relationships, distribution and abundance of Charaxes mtuiae Collins Congdon and Bampton, 2017 (Papilionoidea: Nymphalidae: Charaxinae) and its host plant in the Udzungwa mountain forest in southern Tanzania
Authors: Mtui Devolent , Bringas Karina S. , Ciaccio Erik , Leblanc Luc , Okick Raymond , Bwenge Deusdedith , Hamilton Chris A.
Published: August 2022

Charaxes mtuiae Collins Congdon and Bampton, 2017 was discovered in 2005 in the Udzungwa Mountains of Tanzania, where the caterpillars feed exclusively on Diospyros natalensis. This study was aimed at determining the abundance and spatial distribution of C. mtuiae and its host plant, as well as its evolutionary history. Field surveys were conducted between April 2017 and December 2018. Stems of the host plant were counted in sampling plots and their diameter at breast height measured, and categorised as mature if the diameter was ≥ 12 cm, otherwise as recruits. Charaxes mtuiae was sampled by searching for immatures on the leaves of the host plant and capturing adults using traps. DNA material of C. mtuiae was extracted, sequenced, and aligned with 63 other species of Charaxes. A total of 1,173 stems of the host plant including 1,064 recruits and 102 mature stems were recorded. One specimen of C. mtuiae found at caterpillar stage was raised to adulthood, and three empty pupa cases of C. mtuiae were recorded. The phylogenetic relationship of C. mtuiae and its sister lineages was concordant with previous descriptions, based on morphology. Our results indicate that C. mtuiae is rare, despite the high abundance of its host plant. Continued research and monitoring of C. mtuiae population to understand its ecological requirements; and expansion of surveys into other parts of the country where the host plant occurs to establish its distribution country-wide are recommended.
A preliminary butterfly checklist (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) for Cyamudongo tropical forest fragment, Rwanda
Authors: Uwizelimana Jean de Dieu , Nsabimana Donat , Wagner Thomas
Published: August 2022

This study provides a preliminary checklist of butterfly species occurring in the Cyamudongo tropical forest fragment, Rwanda. A survey of butterflies was conducted seasonally from October 2019 to August 2020. Butterflies were collected for identification using butterfly nets and fruit-baited traps along trails within Cyamudongo forest. One hundred and sixty-two butterfly species were recorded in the Cyamudongo forest, including thirteen species that are endemic to the Albertine Rift. This preliminary checklist serves as baseline data for conservationists including park managers and researchers concerned with butterfly conservation.
Evaluation of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism and Genetic Diversity at the Myostatin gene Locus in Indigenous and Locally Adapted Exotic Turkey breeds in Nigeria
Authors: Ilori B.M. , Isong S.S. , Oghate E.B. , Ojeniyi B.A. , Durosaro S.O. , Akano K. , Oguntade D.O. , Onakoya B.M. , Olapade S.A. , Ozoje M.O.
Published: August 2022

This research was carried out to characterize single nucleotide polymorphism at the myostatin gene locus in indigenous and Nigerian locally adapted exotic turkeys. A total of 220-day-old poults comprising 120 local and 100 locally adapted exotic turkeys were sourced from reputable hatchery and were managed for 20 weeks under intensive management system. Blood samples were collected from 70 turkeys each form the two breeds via the brachial vein into Ethylene Diamine Tetra Acetic Acid (EDTA) bottles for DNA extraction and amplification of target regions using commercially available kits when the birds were 8 weeks. Genomic regions containing exon 1 and 2 of MSTN gene including their surrounding introns were sequenced and analyzed using BioEdit, Codon Code Aligner, DnaSP and MEGA software. Codon-based test was also performed to estimate the ratio of non-synonymous substitutions (dN) to synonymous substitutions (dS). Results from our study showed that both local and exotic turkey breeds had one non-synonymous single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) (248 G>A) in exon 1 while SNP variant 333 G>A was detected only in exon 2 of exotic turkey. In intron 1, a total of 3 SNPs in local turkey and 2 SNPs in exotic turkey were detected. Intron 2 also revealed 4 and 3 SNPs in local and exotic turkeys respectively. Genetic diversity indices showed that local turkey had higher haplotype diversity at intron 1 (75 %) and intron 2 (84 %) while haplotype diversity of 20 % was estimated at exon 2 in exotic turkey. Our Codon-based test of selection showed dN/dS ratio of <1 (purifying selection) at G248A SNP loci, suggested a possible role of this non-synonymous SNP variant on growth performance. We recommend a population-based study to investigate the effect of this non-synonymous SNP G248A on growth and morpho-structural traits for breed improvement and conservation of our locally adapted turkey populations.
Biotechnological Effect of Fermented Mung Beans (Vigna Radiata) Flour and Its Protein Quality in Wistar Rats
Authors: Lawal R.T. , Oyegoke O.A. , Abiona M.A.
Published: August 2022

Fermentation with inclusion of organisms has been shown to improve the nutritional quality of food. This work was designed to investigate the effect of fermented mung beans (Vigina radiata) flour and protein quality in Wistar rats. The seed of V. radiata was sorted, washed, sun-dried, and later aseptically pulverized. The flour was then divided into seven portions of 500 g each and put in sterile containers. The six portions of flour were subjected to natural and induced fermentation for 4 days, using naturally occurring bacteria singly as a starter culture at 28 ±2oC, while the unfermented portion served as a control. The product of fermentation was used to determine the nutritional quality of the unfermented and fermented mung beans flour by studying the growth weight of visceral organs and body weight of rats and nitrogen retention of animals in various tissues of the internal organs, faeces and urine and protein quality of experimental animals fed. The growth weight of visceral organs and body weight of rats in the kidney (g) ranged from 17.52 ±0.62 to 23.07 ±0.78, liver (g) from 85.77 ±0.30 to 117.52 ±0.50 while muscle (g) ranged from 68.99 ±0.10 to 134.56 ±0.47. Nitrogen retention of animals fed with unfermented and fermented mung beans flour in kidney (g) 13.45 ±0.02 to 50.34 ±0.01, liver (g) 12.44 ±0.01 to 50.38 ±0.02, muscle (g) 12.89 ±0.01 to 50.55 ±0.01, faeces (g) 0.36 ±0.01 to 0.89 ±0.01 while urine 0.35 ±0.01 to 0.84 ±0.02. The protein quality of experimental animals fed in Biological Value (BV) ranged from 0.00 to 70.67 ±1.15, Net Protein Utilization (NPU) 0.00 to 76.33 ±1.53, Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER) 0.00 to 2.27 ±0.15, Net Protein Ratio (NPR) 0.00 to 3.47 ±0.11 while gained/loss ranged from -10.59 ±0.01 to 30.88 ±5.76. The fermentation increase quality of nutrient present in mung beans and fermented mung beans flour may promote the weight of internal organs of Wistar rats.