bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The validity and reliability of the Persian version of the Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire
Authors: Najafabadi Mohammad Mandegar , Angoorani Hooman , Charest Jonathan , Samuels Charles H , Bagherzadeh Kiana , Nazari Ahmad , Mazaherinezhad Ali
Published: February 2024

Background:

Sleep as a biological phenomenon is effective in the performance and recovery of athletes. Questionnaires can be used as a cost-effective initial assessment tool for sleep. The Athlete Sleep Screening Questionnaire (ASSQ) demonstrated a clinically valid instrument for screening relevant sleep issues in athletic populations. Due to the lack of validated tools for adequate screening for sleep difficulties in the Iranian athlete population, the present study was conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the Persian version of the ASSQ.

Materials and Methods:

The translation process was performed using instructions by Beaton et
al. Content validity was assessed by a panel of experts. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis was performed for two 5-item sleep difficulty scores (SDS) and a 4-item chronotype score. Internal consistency based on Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega and stability reliability were used to evaluate reliability.

Results:

The ASSQ achieved conceptual and semantic equivalence with the original scale. The item-level content validity index (I-CVI) of each item ranged from 0.87 to 1, and the averaging scale-level CVI/average was 0.95. In factor analysis, one factor for SDS and one factor for chronotype score were identified and confirmed. The internal consistency of the SDS scale (a =0.77, W =0.83) and chronotype (a =0.74, W =0.77) was acceptable. Stability reliability was confirmed for SDS scale (intra-class correlation [ICC] =0.87) and for chronotype (ICC = 0.83).

Conclusion:

Persian ASSQ has acceptable psychometric measurement properties as a screening tool to assess sleep in Iranian athletes.
Isoform- and cell-state-specific APOE homeostasis and function
Authors: Lindner Karina , Gavin Anne-Claude
Published: February 2024

Apolipoprotein E is the major lipid transporter in the brain and an important player in neuron-astrocyte metabolic coupling. It ensures the survival of neurons under stressful conditions and hyperactivity by nourishing and detoxifying them. Apolipoprotein E polymorphism, combined with environmental stresses and/or age-related alterations, influences the risk of developing late-onset Alzheimer’s disease. In this review, we discuss our current knowledge of how apolipoprotein E homeostasis, i.e. its synthesis, secretion, degradation, and lipidation, is affected in Alzheimer’s disease.
Anatomical and functional results of femtosecond laser-assisted descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty compared to microkeratome-assisted descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty
Authors: Chacón-Zambrano Daniela , Suárez-Garavito Jaime Andrés , Casas José Leonardo Ramírez , Rosenstiehl Shirley M. , Mora Matilde
Published: February 2024

Introduction:

Femtosecond laser devices have been praised for their precision in corneal surgery; however, their performance in endothelial corneal graft surgery is still in development compared to the standard microkeratome technique. The purpose of this study is to describe the anatomical and functional differences in surgical outcomes between microkeratome (mk) and femtosecond laser (fs) assisted Descemet stripping automated endothelial keratoplasty (DSAEK).

Methods:

This is an analytic, observational, pilot study of patients who underwent mk-DSAEK or fs-DSAEK. The data were obtained from the clinical records and the institutional transplant registry with a focus on graft measurements, survival, transparency, visual acuity and was further analyzed.

Results:

A total of 37 participants were included in the study with 70.3% (n = 26) of them being female and 29.7% of them being male (n = 11). Of the 37 eyes, 23 (62.2%) of them underwent mk-DSAEK and 14 (37.8%) of them underwent fs-DSAEK. Optimized femtosecond laser parameters are reported. There was a statistically significant difference in donor graft thickness which was thinner in the fs-DSAEK group with a median of 110 mm interquartile range (IQR) (102.25–117.5) versus a median of 233 mm IQR (219–243.75) P = 0.00 in the mk-DSAEK group. There were no significant differences for other variables between techniques.

Conclusion:

Fs-DSAEK allowed significantly thinner graft obtention in comparison to mk-DSAEK; however, there were no significant differences between mk-DSAEK and fs-DSAEK in terms of transparency, graft survival, or visual acuity.
Vitrectomy for diabetic retinopathy: A review of indications, techniques, outcomes, and complications
Authors: Patel Nimesh C. , Hsieh Yi-Ting , Yang Chung-May , Berrocal Maria H. , Dhawahir-Scala Felipe , Ruamviboonsuk Paisan , Pappuru Rajeev Reddy , Dave Vivek Pravin
Published: February 2024

Diabetic retinopathy is one of the most severe forms of retinopathy and a leading cause of blindness all over the world. Of a greater concern is proliferative diabetic retinopathy which leads to vitreous haemorrhage and tractional retinal detachment in such cases. A majority of these cases require a surgical intervention to improve vision and prevent further vision loss. Surgical manouevers in these cases require a complex combination of vitrectomy, membrane dissection, judious usage of endodiathermy, endolaser, vital dyes, bimanual dissection and usage of intraoperative and post-operative tamponades. Each case presents a unique challenge and necessitates an appropriate combination of the steps mentioned above. In the current review we present the current understanding of the need for surgery in diabetic retinopathy, various surgical approaches and a summary of current literature on the same. Multiple surgical video clips demonstrating these steps are also included in this review.
Design and analysis of battery management system in electric vehicle
Authors: Parameswari M , Usha S
Published: February 2024

The usage of electric vehicles is gaining momentum in recent time’s thus providing support to the growth in sales of electric vehicles. The Battery management system is the most important aspect to ensure the smooth functioning of an electric vehicle. This research highlights some key statements on the background of electric vehicles. The increase in the overall growing importance of electric vehicles has also been explained in this work. Battery management system has an importance in the functioning of electric vehicles, thus presenting the key highlights of this article. The finding presents the importance of batteries and their type used in EVs. The simulation results of the Lithium battery cell – 1 RC, 2 RC equivalent circuit parameters such as charging current, terminal voltage, state of charge, and battery current have been simulated and analysed in Matlab. The future scope of BMS and its development has been discussed.
Electrical networks and the grove algebra
Authors: Gao Yibo , Lam Thomas , Xu Zixuan
Published: February 2024

We study the ring of regular functions on the space of planar electrical networks, which we coin the grove algebra. This algebra is an electrical analog of the Plücker ring studied classically in invariant theory. We develop the combinatorics of double groves to study the grove algebra, and find a quadratic Gröbner basis for the grove ideal.
Positive crossratios, barycenters, trees and applications to maximal representations
Authors: Burger Marc , Iozzi Alessandra , Parreau Anne , Pozzetti Maria Beatrice
Published: February 2024

We study metric properties of maximal framed representations of fundamental groups of surfaces in symplectic groups over real closed fields, interpreted as actions on Bruhat–Tits buildings endowed with adapted Finsler norms. We prove that the translation length can be computed as intersection with a geodesic current, give sufficient conditions guaranteeing that such a current is a multicurve, and, if the current is a measured lamination, construct an isometric embedding of the associated tree in the building. These results are obtained as application of more general results of independent interest on positive crossratios and actions with compatible barycenters.
The Structure of Chinese Compounds: The Perspective of Predicative Implicitness
Authors: Yang Yongzhong
Published: February 2024

This paper examines Chinese nominal compounds with respect to their internal structure, thematic relations, generation process, and constraint mechanism from the perspective of predicate implicitness. Findings reveal that constituent functions in these compounds vary based on their structural positions, closely aligning morphological and syntactic structures. Predicate implicitness necessitates hierarchical adjunction, disallowing cross-layered adjunction. Corresponding relations exist between theta-roles, semantic relations, syntactic, and morphological structures. The study delineates differences between agentive and non-agentive compounds and explores how syntactic structure influences morphological structure. It also delves into theta-roles, argument structure, and linear order, arguing that constituent word order adheres to the Prominence and Locality Principles, dictated by their syntactic hierarchy positions.
The Effectiveness of an Education Intervention based on Self-Care Model on Depressive Symptoms among adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Oluchina Sherry
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Over the past years, evidence has shown a high prevalence of depression among Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) patients.  This interventional study was performed to decrease depressive symptoms using education based on the self-care model in  Kiambu County, Kenya.

Methodology: The study was conducted from January to August 2021 at diabetic clinics of Thika Level 5 Hospital  (TL5H) and Kiambu Level 5 Hospital (KL5H). The study employed a pre-test post-test non-equivalent quasi-experimental study design.  There were 96 adolescents with T1DM obtained by stratified random sampling, and assigned into experimental (48 respondents) and  control group (48 respondents). Depressive symptoms were evaluated in the first and seventh months using the Center for Epidemiology  Studies Short Depression (CES-D) scale. Paired sample T-test and Independent sample T-test were used to analyze data.

Results: The  results of the Independent sample T-test showed that there was a statistically significant difference in the mean score difference of  depressive symptoms at postintervention (t = -2.968, df = 94, p = 0.004), but no statistically significant difference in the mean score  difference of depressive symptoms at baseline (t = -1.100, df = 86, p =0.274). The result of the paired sample T-test revealed that there was  a statistically significant difference in the mean score difference of depressive symptoms in the intervention group (t = -4.374, df =  47, p = <0.001), but no statistically significant difference in the mean score difference of depressive symptoms in the control group (t=  -1.304, df = 47, p =0.199).

Conclusions: Education intervention based on the self-care model is an effective program that can improve  depressive symptoms. In addition, the education intervention based on the self-care model needs to be implemented continuously to  prevent diabetes-related complications and improve depressive symptoms among diabetic patients.
Survey of mosquitoes larvae at Bayero University, Kano students’ hostels (Old Campus) (Culicidae: Diptera)
Authors: S.A Shehu , M.A Aminu , U.M Aisha , S.M Salim , M.I Hassan , A.B Umar
Published: February 2024

The risk of contracting mosquito-borne diseases upon being bitten by an infected mosquitoraises serious health concerns for both staff and students in educational settings. Consequentlya survey was conducted to identify various mosquito species and breeding sites within the oldcampus hostels of Bayero University, Kano, during January and February 2023. The surveyencompassed breeding sites such as stagnant pools of water, drainages, gutters, and discardedcontainers. Mosquito larvae were sampled using dippers and scoops, and their enumerationwas performed with a Pasteur pipette. Three genera were identified: Anopheles, Aedes, andCulex spp. A total of 1,115 larvae were sampled from six locations, per volume of water comprising three each from female hostels and three from male hostels respectively. Theprevalence of mosquitoes was higher in female hostels (785 larvae, 69.4%) compared to malehostels (370 larvae, 32.7%). In female hostels, Aedes sp. exhibited greater abundance (400, 50.9%) than Culex sp. (337, 42.9%), with Anopheles sp. being the least abundant (48, 6.11%).Conversely, in male hostels, Culex sp. dominated with 186 (50.2%), followed by Aedes sp. with 179 (48.3%), while Anopheles sp. was the least abundant with 5 (1.35%). Consequently, the mean abundance of mosquitoes between male and female hostels demonstrated a significantdifference. This study contributes valuable insights into the larval habitats of mosquitoes in thestudents’ hostels of Bayero University, Kano, specifically during the dry season. Factors suchas student activities, inadequate sensitization, and poor sanitation were identified as majorcontributors to the creation of breeding sites for mosquitoes in the hostels.
Assessment of the potentials of Autochthonous lipase-producing bacteria in the treatment of palm oil mill effluent
Authors: F. A Ikuesan , J. E Olugbode
Published: February 2024

Pollution caused by the release of untreated palm oil mill effluent (POME) is a major environmental concern. This research assessed the potentials of single and consortium ofautochthonous lipase-producing bacteria as a non-invasive procedure in the biotreatment ofPOME. The identity of lipase-producing bacteria in POME were determined using morphological and biochemical techniques. Identified isolates were monitored for POME utilization by measurement of optical density at 600 nm in 25 ml Bushnell Haas broth supplemented with 0.25 ml sterilized POME. Individual isolates and consortium were then used for the bioremediation of POME. Quality parameters including pH, total suspended solid (TSS), oil and grease, chemical oxygen demand (COD), biological oxygen demand (BOD), total organic carbon (TOC), total organic matter (TOM) and total nitrogen (TN) of the raw and treated effluents were evaluated. The population (CFU/ml) of total heterotrophic, POME - utilizing and lipolytic bacteria were 3.9 x 106, 2.8 x 106 and 3.5 x 105 respectively. The lipolytic bacterial isolates include Brenneria nigrifluens, Bacillus circulans and Paenibacillus pectinilyticus. Results revealed varying pH of 5.03 and 6.81 - 7.26 for untreated and treated respectively. The lipolytic bacteria from POME caused reduction efficiency of 100% in TSS and oil and grease contents of the treated effluents relative to the raw samples. The COD, BOD, TOC, TOM and TN reduction ranged 17.90 - 93.55, 1.66 - 90.52, 16.34 - 59.79 %, 6.18 - 80.78 % and 11.71 - 93.66 % respectively. This research indicated that POME indigenous lipase-producing bacteria improved POME quality and therefore suggestive of their potentials in the bioremediation of POME-contaminated environment with the consortium being most effective.
Estimation of stature from foot dimensions: A comparative study between Hausas and Yorubas in Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
Authors: A. Gudaji , Z.I Rukayya
Published: February 2024

Anthropometry is the measurement of variables such as foot height, length and width of human body. The current study was conducted to estimate stature from foot dimensions among Hausas and Yorubas of Faculty of Basic Medical Science in Bayero University, Kano. The objectives were to obtain height and foot dimensions; determine sexual dimorphism, correlation and to estimate stature. The materials used were stadiometer and a digital vernier caliper. Sampling was done randomly. The sample size was 400 subjects (200 Hausas and 200 Yorubas). Statistical significance was deemed acceptable at p<0.05. It was observed that all the variables have significant sexual dimorphism. Among the Hausas, all the variables correlated strongly with each other except for BMI and all foot dimensions. There was a weak negative correlation that is statistically significant between BMI and height. Among the Yorubas, weight, height and BMI correlated strongly with one another, and also all foot dimensions correlated strongly with weight and height except LFB and weight where there was a weak positive correlation that is statistically significant. There was a weak positive correlation that is statistically significant between RFB and BMI while LFB and BMI correlate strongly with each other. Both foot lengths do not correlate with BMI. A significant relationship was found between the selected forensic parameters and the foot dimensions among Hausas and Yorubas of Faculty of Basic Medical Science in Bayero University, Kano.
Herbal medicinal therapy for haemorrhoid and sexual dysfunction - perception and practice among adult males in Ibadan metropolis, Southwest Nigeria
Authors: O.O Daramola , D.R Omotoso , W.A Oyeyemi
Published: February 2024

The application of herbal medicinal products for diverse therapeutic purposes is on the rise inSouthwestern, Nigeria due to its relative effectiveness, accessibility, and affordability. This study aimed to assess the perception and application of herbal medicinal products for the treatment of haemorrhoid and sexual dysfunction (SD) among adult males in Ibadan metropolis, Southwest Nigeria. The study involved 283 randomly selected adult male residents of the Ibadan metropolis, between 20 to 69 years old, and covering different marital statuses, levels of education and professional careers. A questionnaire-based survey was conducted to evaluate the perception and experience of the subjects about the application of herbal-based therapy for haemorrhoid and SD. Based on the results, the most dominant groups include 20 to 29 years old (51.6%), single (59.4%), first-degree holders (55.8%), and public servants (52.7%). Furthermore, 61.5% of the respondents reported prior experience of haemorrhoid; 73.8% opined that the condition could lead to SD; 87% and 60.2% believed that herbal medicine can be used to treat haemorrhoid and SD respectively. There was correlation between the age and level of education of respondents with methods of treating SD and experience of side effects due to herbal therapy. The study population holds an affirmative opinion that herbal medicinal products are effective for the treatment of haemorrhoids and SD. The application of herbal therapy will continue to increase among the study population hence, there is a need to regulate and standardize its production and therapeutic applications.
Ethno-medicinal uses of wild animal products in Mokwa Local Government Area, Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: U.I Fingesi
Published: February 2024

Since the beginning of time, traditional medicines, including both plant and animal products,have been utilized to treat a variety of illnesses, especially in rural areas around the world. The purpose of this study, which was carried out in the Mokwa Local Government Area, was to acquire information on the types of wild animals hunted and used in traditional medicine, determine the types of illnesses cured and the perception of the people towards traditional medicine in the area. Structured questionnaires and oral interviews were used to gather data on the local use of traditional medicine from a representative sample of the communities. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics and presented in tables, charts and percentages. The results obtained revealed that the majority of respondents in the research area used animal products as medicine. Among the communities studied, Bokani was observed to record the least usage (6.67 %), while Kudu and Kpaki both had higher (10.67 %) usage respectively. The most frequently used wild animals include Duiker, Bush buck and Monitor Lizard. In Kpaki community, 11 animals were identified, while in Bokani community, only 4 animals were identified. The ways through which wild animals are acquired for the medicinal purpose include farmland, market and the state forest reserves around. A total of 20 animal products were identified to be effective in treating diseases and ailment. Therefore, sustainable use of wild animal species needs to be enhanced for improved conservation of threatened species and prevent their extinction in the near future.
Impact of biochar from different agricultural wastes on soil chemical characteristics and growth of maize
Authors: Nwawuike Ifeoma Monica
Published: February 2024

The use of biochar as soil amendment is gaining acceptance as an important management strategy to tackle food insecurity for the growing population in Nigeria amid soil deterioration. This study examined the influence of biochar produced from the different agricultural wastes on soil chemical characteristics and growth of maize. A pot experiment was conducted at the greenhouse of Imo State University Owerri, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in completely randomized design. The agricultural wastes used were rice husk, corn cob, poultry manure and pig dung. The agricultural wastes were charred differently for 60 minutes at the temperature of 250oC. The maize plant used for the experiment was Oba super II. The biochar was produced using modified biochar kiln and were applied to the soil at the rate of 10t ha-1. The treatments were replicated thrice. Soil amended with poultry manure charred for 60 minutes at 250oC (PMB60) had the highest significant growth (plant height) and yield (dry matter) parameters. Significant differences were observed among the biochar amendments with the soil chemical characteristics (pH, Available P, SOM, TN, Exchangeable base cations and CEC). However, the study reported that PMB60 gave the highest significant increase in almost all the soil chemical characteristics (soil pH(6.0), Avail. P(18.20mg kg-1), exchangeable Ca(5.8Cmol kg-1), Mg(3.97Cmol kg-1, K(0.32Cmol kg-1, Na(0.28Cmol kg-1) and CEC(10.75Cmol kg-1)) compared to the other biochar amendments. This study concluded that PMB60 was better suited to improve soil chemical characteristics while also improving maize performance compared to the other biochar amendments.
Politique de l’émeute dans Le dernier de l’Empire (1981) d’Ousmane Sembène
Authors: Galafa Beaton
Published: February 2024

L’œuvre d’Ousmane Sembène est devenue un vecteur de lutte sociale dans l’Afrique postcoloniale suite à l’émergence de problèmes  sociaux et politiques endémiques à la postcolonie. De ce chaos est également né Le dernier de l’Empire, un roman dans lequel Sembène explore l’utilisation de l’émeute dans les luttes de classe africaines. Cet article examine comment Sembène représente cette émeute dans  le roman comme un outil efficace pour le prolétariat dans la lutte des classes au Sénégal, tout en la décrivant comme une  conséquence délibérée de la répression violente orchestrée par la bourgeoisie contre la dissidence de la classe ouvrière. Sembène y  parvient par le biais d’un récit fictif qui gagne notre reconnaissance en tant que préservation de la mémoire dans laquelle nous voyons le  roman comme une représentation de la réalité. Nous voyons également comment le prolétariat, tout au long du roman, est opposé à la  bourgeoisie, et comment l’émeute devient une solution ultime à la lutte des classes. Considérant que Le dernier de l’Empire se concentre  sur la lutte des classes (après l’indépendance), l’article déploie une critique marxiste dans son analyse du roman. Ceci est pareillement conforme à notre propre compréhension de Sembène en tant qu’écrivain marxiste renommé. Cependant, l’article utilise  également la désillusion postcoloniale dans son analyse puisque le roman traite des défis de l’État postcolonial africain. 

 

Ousmane  Sembène’s work became a vector for social struggle in postcolonial Africa following the emergence of social and political problems  endemic to the post-colony. Out of this chaos also emerged Le dernier de l’Empire, a novel in which Sembène explores the use of riot in  African class struggles. This article is an examination of how Sembène represents this riot in the novel as an effective tool for the  proletariat in the class struggle in Senegal while at the same time describing it as a deliberate consequence of violent repression  orchestrated by the bourgeoisie against working-class dissent. Sembène achieves this through a fictional narrative that gains our  recognition as a preservation of memory in which we see the novel as a representation of reality. We also see how the proletariat  throughout the novel is pitted against the bourgeoisie, and how riot becomes an ultimate solution to the class struggle. Considering that  Le dernier de l’Empire focuses on class struggle (after independence), the article deploys a Marxist critique in its analysis of the novel. This also aligns with our understanding of Sembène as a renowned Marxist writer.   However, the article equally uses postcolonial disillusionment in its analysis since the novel deals with the challenges of the African postcolonial state.
Biodegradation potentials of edaphic bacterial isolates cultured on Haloxyfop R Methyl ester herbicide-mineral salt medium
Authors: Obayagbona O. N. , Dunkwu-Okafor A. , Odigie O. , Oghene J. U.
Published: February 2024

The heterotrophic and haloxyfop-R methyl ester utilizing bacterial counts associated with top soil samples was evaluated. Three (3) bacterial isolates; Bacillus sp., Micrococcus sp. and Staphylococcus sp. were cultured and screened for their ability to utilize haloxyfop-R methyl ester as sole source of carbon and energy using the turbidimeteric procedure. The growth profiles of two axenic cultures; Bacillus sp. and Micrococcus sp. were determined using the shake flask test. Parameters which included pH, mean viable bacterial counts, optical density and dissolved CO2 were determined during growth profiling using relevant procedures and equipment. The pH of the soil samples was 5.08 ± 0.02 for sample A and 4.62 ± 0.02 for sample B. The total heterotrophic bacterial count was 2.8 × 104 cfu/g ± 849 for A and 4.62 × 104 cfu/g ± 989 for B. The mean dissolved CO2 data for Micrococcus sp. during the growth profile study ranged from 1.1 mg/l ± 0.1 to 6.8 mg/l ± 0.2. Axenic Micrococcus sp. was the most effective amongst the growth profile cultures in mineralizing the herbicide content of the culture medium.
Optimization of culture conditions for xylanase production by mixed fungal fermentation: Effects on pretreated maize cobs
Authors: Olagunju A. , Onyike E. , Ameh D. A. , Atawodi S. E. , Muhammad A.
Published: February 2024

The use of microorganisms for xylanase production plays important role in the bioconversion of lignocelluloses and also required in huge amount for industrial level application. This necessitates the need to select potent microorganisms for xylanase production, followed by optimization of media components for enhanced production. The effects of altering cultural fermentation conditions on the xylanase production ability in maize cobs were investigated. A consortium of four fungi; Lenzites betulina, Trichoderma reesei, Lachnocladium specie and Aspergillus niger were used to carry out single and mixed solid-state fermentation on NaOH pretreated maize cobs. Optimization of fermentation factors were carried out from ten groups of individual and co-fermented fungal combinations. L. flavidum was found to be the most effective xylanase producer with optimal conditions at pH of 5.5, moisture 75%, inoculum concentration at 5-6 x 103 spores/ml, incubation period of 7-9 days and 1% peptone as the best nitrogen media supplement. Variation to different degrees in the degradation of the maize cobs were observed. A 10% decrease in cellulose was observed with co- cultures of T. reesei and A. niger and a 15% decrease in the hemicellulose fraction. The biotechnological potential of corn cobs has been enhanced by the screening and optimizing the culture conditions.
Probiotics screening from selected Nigerian prebiotics: Alternative starter culture sources for yoghurt production
Authors: Egwim E. C. , Nebechukwu P, C. , Ojo O. O. , Akpakpan F. U. , Oloninefa S. D. , Akan O. D.
Published: February 2024

The rise of functional foods has expanded food production, offering not just essential nutrition but also potential health and longevity benefits. This study aimed to identify probiotics from common Nigerian fermented foods as potential starter cultures for yogurt production. Ten local fermented food were screened for suitable starter culture(probiotics) for yogurt production, including fresh milk from cow (CM), sheep (SM), and goat (GM), as well as pap made from maize, millet, sorghum, cassava products (garri, fufu, and lafun), and Kunuzaki. Probiotic isolates with desired characteristics underwent tests for tolerance to acidic pH and bile conditions; antioxidative properties. Test yogurt was produced using Lactobacillus (LAB) isolates and physicochemical and organoleptic scores were determined for the yogurt samples. LAB species from CM, SM, and Lafun samples showed tolerance to both acidic pH (pH 3.0) and 0.5 percent bile. CM isolates exhibited strong antioxidant effects comparable to vitamin C. Yogurt samples had pH ranging from 4.77 to 5.45 and titratable acidity from 5.56 to 8.06. Sensory characteristics of the test yogurt did not significantly differ from commercial yogurt (p ≤ 0.05). Thus, probiotics (LAB) from common Nigerian fermented foods like CM, SM, and lafun could serve as cost-effective, nutrient-rich alternatives for yogurt starter cultures.
Molecular typing of clinical and non-clinical Escherichia coli from Rivers State, Nigeria using amplification-based RAPD and ERIC-PCR typing methods
Authors: Dibia C. , Otokunefor K.
Published: February 2024

Due to the diverse nature of Escherichia coli, typing of these organisms is essential. This can provide key epidemiological information not just on the strains in circulation and their relationship, but also on the development and spread of drug resistant clones. Affordable PCR-based typing techniques have resulted in an increase in typing studies particularly in resource limited settings. But information from Nigeria on strain typing is limited. This study was therefore aimed at typing clinical and non-clinical strains of E. coli from Nigeria using the PCR based Random Amplification of Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) and Enterobacterial Repetitive Intergenic Consensus-PCR (ERIC-PCR) typing methods.

E. coli was isolated from clinical and non-clinical sources using Eosin Methylene Blue agar. Characteristic green metallic sheen colonies associated with E. coli were purified, identities determined using standard biochemical tests and confirmed using molecular methods. Susceptibility testing was carried out using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion test and RAPD and ERIC-PCR typing carried out on 48 confirmed E. coli isolates as previously described. ERIC-PCR typing resulted in the generation of 38 unique patterns with a 0.94 diversity. Nine of these were singletons comprised of only a single isolate, while the remaining 29 patterns were grouped to 10 clusters. RAPD gave similar results of 37 patterns, 9 singletons, 0.94 diversity and 13 clusters. For ERIC-PCR, all isolates with identical patterns were from the same source. RAPD, however, had identical patterns present in isolates from different sources.

Using the ERIC-PCR typing method, this study was able to identify non-clinical isolates as distinct from the clinical E. coli isolates as evidenced by 100% identical ERIC-PCR profiles of isolates from the same source and a lack of 100% relatedness in isolates from different sources.
Genetic and phenotypic presentation of Usher syndrome - a case report
Authors: Dukuze N. , Uwibambe E. , Sesonga P. , Niyongere J. , Tuyishimire B. , Urungwiro A. , Ndinkabandi J. , Rwamatwara A. , Niyoyita S. , Isingizwe G. , Batamuliza J. , Nsanzabaganwa C. , Bukuru J. , Rutagarama F. , Karangwa O. , Ndatinya A. , Muhizi C. , Mutesa L.
Published: February 2024

Usher syndrome is a genetic, clinically heterogeneous condition characterized by sensorineural hearing loss, progressive retinal degeneration, and vestibular dysfunction. There are three phenotypically recognizable types of Usher syndrome. Individuals with Usher syndrome type 1 have no vestibular function and profound sensorineural hearing loss. Individuals with Usher syndrome type 2 have normal vestibular function and mild-to-severe hearing loss with visual impairment that is presented later in life. People with Usher syndrome type III experience hearing and vision loss beginning later in life. In this case report, we are reporting a 7-year-old boy consulted for progressive hearing loss and bilateral vision impairment, and fundus exam revealed mild bilateral retinal vessel attenuation and bone spicule deposits in both eyes. A molecular genetic test done by next-generation sequencing identified a homozygous pathogenic variant in the CDH23 gene (NM_022124.5:c.2255del variant coordinate with amino acid change of p.(Gly752Valfs*13)), confirming the diagnosis of autosomal recessive Usher syndrome type ID (USH1D). The patient had a remarkable improvement with visual and optical aids. Genetic counseling, including reproductive counseling, was provided to the parents. Clinical evaluation, visual hearing tests, and genetic workup confirmed Usher syndrome, which is a rare but dangerous cause of hearing loss and visual impairment that needs to be thoroughly evaluated by a multi-disciplinary team approach.
Association between erectile dysfunction and cardiovascular risk factors in a Nigeria tertiary hospital
Authors: Tor-Anyiin I. , Omokhua O. E. , Swende L. T.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION: Erectile dysfunction has adverse effects on the marital harmony and self-esteem of affected persons. It is shrouded in shame in our environment, hence affecting self-reporting of the condition. It is linked to CVDs in its etiology. The objective was to determine the relationship between erectile dysfunction (ED) and cardiovascular risk factors to recommend them as indicators for screening for ED in our environment.

METHODS: This was a cross-sectional analytical study of 243 men at a tertiary hospital in Nigeria. Participants were recruited by systematic random sampling, excluding those on aphrodisiacs. Erectile dysfunction was measured using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), and ED was defined as a score <17. CVD risk factors were obtained from history and examination. Univariate analysis and logistic regressions were used to elicit associations between ED and cardiovascular risk factors.

RESULTS: The prevalence of ED was 47.3%. Erectile dysfunction was associated with increasing age (χ2=27, p<0.01), harmful alcohol use (χ2=3.08, p= 0.079), diabetes (χ2=8.29, p=0.04), and hypertension (χ2=12.28, p =0.01) following bivariate analysis. However, only advanced age (aOR=0.04, 95% CI: 0.00-0.54, p = 0.014) and harmful alcohol use (aOR = 0.37, 95% CI: 0.04-0.97, p=0.043) were independently associated with ED after binary logistic regression.

CONCLUSION: The prevalence of ED is high high. It is associated with age, harmful alcohol use, diabetes mellitus, and hypertension, hence the need to screen for ED, especially in the presence of these factors.
Knowledge and socio-demographic factors associated with depression among students on clinical rotation in a private university in Ekiti state, Nigeria
Authors: Omotoso A. A. , Ojo J. , Ipinnimo T. , Alao T. , Chimah M. , Uchuno E. , Mohammed H. , Etuk A. , Osho B. , Olasehinde O.
Published: February 2024

NTRODUCTION: Depression is among the most common mental and public health problems globally. Depression is generally common among university students and is especially high among undergraduates on clinical postings. Clinical students are exposed to varying kinds of stressors ensuing from difficulties integrating into the hospital system and implicated in causing academic failure, disability, and poor quality of life. This study aimed to assess the knowledge and the socio-demographic factors associated with depression among clinical undergraduates in a private university.

METHODS: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among 242 students of the College of Medicine and Health Sciences of a private university who were undergoing their clinical rotations. Data was collected on the socio-demographic variable and knowledge of depression. The proportion of students with depression was determined with the 20-itemZung self-rating depression scale.

RESULTS: Less than half (43.0%) of the respondents had good knowledge of depression, with the majority using social media (82.6%) and one-third of Journals/textbooks (34.3%) as sources of information. The identified predictors of depression were being female (AOR:2.624; 95%CI:1.006-7.600) and having poor knowledge of depression (AOR:2.806; 95%CI:1.121-3.975).

CONCLUSION: This study revealed that less than half of the students had good knowledge of depression. Poor knowledge and female gender were identified as positive predictors of depression. Therefore, more effort should also be taken by the school authority to educate these students on depression.
Causes and outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in referral hospitals in Rwanda: a prospective study
Authors: Nyampinga D. , Rutaganda E. , Shikama F. , Ingabire Z. , Mukanumviye S. , Turikumwe S. , Aberra H. , Redae B. , Seminega B. , Dusabejambo V. , Van Leeuwen D. J.
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION: Upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding is a common emergency that results in significant morbidity and mortality. In Rwanda, data on causes and outcomes are lacking. The aim of this study was to identify the causes and outcomes of upper gastrointestinal bleeding in patients referred to tertiary referral centers.

METHODS: This is an observational prospective study for which we enrolled all patients who presented with presumed upper gastrointestinal bleeding and underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. We studied causes and outcomes during 3 months of follow-up after initial presentation from February 2019 to September 2019.

RESULTS: We enrolled 194 participants. The mean age was 49.6 ± 17.66 years. The common causes of upper GI bleeding were peptic ulcer disease in 82 (43.3%) patients, esophageal varices 32 (16.5%), gastric malignancies 22 (11.3%), and gastritis 21 (10.8%). The upper GI endoscopy was reported to be normal in only 20 cases (10.3%). The mortality and rebleeding rates after 3 months were 37 (19.07%) and 70 (36%) respectively. The esophageal varices were associated with increased rebleeding (OR: 10.791, P value <0.001), while gastric cancer was associated with increased mortality (OR: 4.405, P value 0.008).

CONCLUSION: Upper gastrointestinal bleeding is a considerable problem in Rwandan teaching hospitals. Our findings are in agreement with the reported causes of upper GI bleeding worldwide. From this study, we consider that variceal hemorrhage and peptic ulcer may have the potential to be better managed.
Effect of regenerative effectiveness on the performance of simple gas turbine
Authors: Ogbe E.E. , Ossia C.V. , Saturday E. , Ezekwem C.
Published: February 2024

The deregulation of the power and energy sector introduced a strong element of competition. Power plant operators try to develop techniques to maximize profits in the dynamic power industry. New methods of improving and optimizing simple gas turbine power plants are needed to enhance operational decision making and therefore to maximize power plant profitability by reducing operational and maintenance cost and increasing revenue. In this work, the thermodynamic model equations of both a simple gas turbine and regenerative gas turbine cycle were used to analyses the effect of increase in the regenerative effectiveness to the performance of the simple gas turbine. Microsoft Excel 2010 software was used to carried out the analysis. It was observed that for the simple gas turbine the thermal efficiency, heat rate, specific fuel consumption and heat addition have a constant value of 35.4%, 9630Btu/Kwh, 0.2768kg/Kwh, 44237.8Kw, all through, while for the regenerative gas turbine cycle as the value of the regenerative effectiveness increases from 0.8 to 1.0, the thermal efficiency increases from 41.1% to 65.0%, the heat rate decreases from 8753Btu/Kwh to 5536 Btu/Kwh , specific fuel consumption decreases from 0.248945122Kg/Kw.h to 0.157432413 Kg/Kw.h and heat addition reduces from 39782.5Kw to 25158.4Kw. It was seen clearly that the regenerative gas turbine cycle has higher thermal efficiency compare to the simple gas turbine, and as the regenerative effectiveness of the regenerative gas turbine cycle increases the performance of the regenerative gas turbine increases.
Mycological assessment of different types of cake sold in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Ahaotu I. , Ngeribika I. P. , Maduka N.
Published: February 2024

Spoilage of cake during storage is commonly associated with fungi. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the quality of different types of cake (chocolate, fruit, vanilla, carrot and red velvet cake) sold in Port Harcourt metropolis. A total of fourteen cakes were sampled from three vendors and stored for twelve days at ambient temperature (29±2oC). Monitoring of total fungal count (TFC) and identification of fungal species isolated from the cake samples were carried out at 24 hour intervals using standard microbiological methods. The result obtained showed that 48.21% of the cake samples met the standard recommended by the International Commission on Microbiological Specifications for Foods (ICMSF) and the Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) at the intervals they were monitored during the storage period. Non-viable fungal count were reported in the cake samples within the first 2 days; fruit cake samples till day 9. The TFC of the cake samples steadily increased during the storage period with few exceptions. Carrot cake samples had the highest TFC (7.02 log10CFU/g). Fusarium spp. (32%), Aspergillus niger (27.33%), Penicillium notatum (17.33%), Saccharomyces cerevisiae (10.67%), A. flavus (9.33%), Cladosporium sphaerospermum (2.67%) and Candida albicans (0.67%) were encountered in the cake samples. During the period of storage, fungi was first observed in fruit cake on day 10 whereas, it was earlier reported in other types of cake. Therefore, freshly baked cake produced in commercial quantity and stored at ambient temperature should be consumed within few days to avoid individuals experiencing foodborne illnesses.
Crude oil sorption capacity of modified and unmodified biowaste
Authors: Ibe K. A. , Okwute C. M. , Adebayo A. A.
Published: February 2024

Contamination of water by crude oil is ubiquitous particularly in developing countries. The governments of affected countries raise a lot of concern because of the associated economic and environmental impacts which are not in tandem with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), 6, 8, 11, 13 & 14. Remediation of crude oil-impacted water and soil become imperative. However, the exercise is expensive; hence the search for cheaper and local alternatives. In this study, unsegregated wood sawdust was collected from the various wood saw-dust dump sites within the main Timber shade in the vicinity of Udu Bridge, Udu LGA of Delta State, Nigeria. One half of the sample was chemically modified by acetylation using acetic anhydride while the other half wasn’t. They were characterized using Fourier Transformed Infra-Red Spectrophotometer (FTIR) and Scanning Electron Microscope coupled with Electron Dispersive X-ray (SEM/EDX) analyzer before employing them in the removal of the crude oil from the simulated crude oil spill- water media. The obtained results indicated that the modified sorbent (wood sawdust) sorbed more crude oil than the unmodified sorbent (wood sawdust). Experimental process control factors limited to time, sorbent dosage, particle size, was investigated using the modified sawdust. The modified sorbent gave maximum oil absorption capacity of 5.228 gg-1 for sorption time, 4.759 gg-1 for sorbent dosage and 5.838 gg-1 for particle size analyses. The study contributes to the knowledge of sorption studies using unsegregated wood sawdust for remediation of crude oil-contaminated media.
Studies of the Indigenous Edible Wild Fruits of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwala P. C. , Obute G. C. , Ekeke C.
Published: February 2024

In the past, Indigenous Edible Wild Fruits (IEWFs) were vital source of food and nutrition in Etche Local Government Area. These plant species were highly nutritious and assisted in poverty alleviation and enhanced food security in Etche. Presently, due to the teeming population and the anthropogenic activities in the area especially the farming practice of the local people, the availability and rate of consumption of the IEWFs have been negatively impacted. Information about these economic plant species that are domiciled in Etche has not been properly documented. This investigation seeks to fill the gap. IEWFs were identified in ten (10) study area communities. Scientific names, common names, local names, families, habits, habitat and locality of the plants were documented. It was observed that 36 plant species drawn from 29 genera, representing 23 families were Indigenous Edible Wild Fruits consumed regularly by Etche people. The study revealed that the fruit plants were 39% trees, 42% shrubs, 8% herbs and 11% climbers. In addition, most of the edible plant species in the area were exclusively found in the wild while a few were domesticated and some of them served as a source of income for some households. The study observed a decline in the diversity of species due to depletion of forest resources through bush burning, deforestation and exploitation of flora by the rural dwellers for other purposes.
Anti-diabetic impact of ‘Aju Mbaise’ herbal cocktail in streptozotocin-induced diabetic female rats
Authors: Nnadiukwu T. A , Monago-Ighorodje C. C , Chuku L. C
Published: February 2024

This study evaluated the hypoglycaemic potential of ‘Aju Mbaise’ herbal mixture. Female Wistar rats of 40 – 50 g and fifty-four (54) in number were obtained and housed at the animal house of the Department of Pharmacology, University of Port Harcourt. They were assembled into 6 groups of 9 rats each. Group I served as the normal control (NC) while the remaining five groups were induced with diabetes type 2 using high-fat diet (HFD) for about 8 weeks and streptozotocin at 35 mg/kg body weight. Group II was the diabetic control (DC) while the other groups (III, IV, V & VI) were administered 7.2 mg/kg metformin and the cocktail extract at three different concentrations of 500 mg/kg, 250 mg/kg, and 100 mg/kg respectively. Biochemical tests were conducted after twelve weeks of treatment. The blood glucose concentration was estimated using the Accu-check glucometer and glucose strips while the rest biomarkers were analyzed using their specific test kits. Diabetes mellitus was confirmed after HFD and STZ administration. Result obtained showed that the normal and metformin control groups recorded significant (p<0.05) lower blood glucose, liver enzymes (AST, ALT, & ALP), urea, and creatinine, as well as higher total protein concentrations when compared to the diabetic control and treated groups. Also, significant (p<0.05) reduction in blood glucose, liver enzymes, urea, and creatinine, as well as increase in total protein concentrations was recorded by the treated groups when compared to the diabetic control group. This study revealed the potential hypoglycaemic effect of ‘Aju Mbaise’ herbal cocktail.