bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiological diagnosis and antimicrobial resistance profile of bovine mastitis causing agents in the municipality of Placas, Pará, Brazil
Authors: Camargo Junior Raimundo Nonato Colares , Silva Lenoir Loeblein , Coimbra Igor Felipe da Silva , Silva Welligton Conceição da , Araújo Cláudio Vieira de , Chalkidis Hipócrates de Menezes , Castro Simone Vieira
Published: February 2024

The study was carried out in the region of Placas, Pará. Objective: identify the main causing agents of mastitis, as well as evaluating the resistance profile of the isolated agents against antimicrobials. Methods: Ten properties were evaluated, where 161 animals were submitted to the California Mastitis Test (CMT) for the diagnosis of subclinical mastitis, and milk samples were collected from positive animals and led for culture and antibiogram. Results: In total, 31.06% of the animals were positive for CMT. The main agents identified were Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Streptococcus agalactiae and Streptococcus bovis. The antibiogram indicated resistance to Penicillin, Ceftazidime and Cephalothin. Conclusion: The properties surveyed showed a high rate of subclinical mastitis, regarding antimicrobial resistance, in general, all agents showed high resistance.
Apparent digestibility of fish waste oil in diets for laying hens
Authors: Brelaz Kely Cristina Bastos Teixeira Ramos , Cruz Frank George Guimarães , Rufino João Paulo Ferreira , Brasil Ronner Joaquim Mendonça , Silva André Ferreira , Costa Valcely Rocha , Santos Adriene Núzia de Almeida
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to assess the impact of incorporating fish waste oil into laying hens' diets on apparent nutrient digestibility and apparent metabolizable energy. A total of 72 Hisex White laying hens (25 weeks old) were employed in a completely randomized design, with treatments consisting of a control diet and an experimental diet (containing 3.5% fish oil), each with six replicates of six birds. The collected data underwent polynomial regression analysis at a 5% significance level. No significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed in the digestibility of dry matter, crude protein, mineral matter, crude fiber, and non-nitrogenous extract between the reference diet and the experimental diet containing fish waste oil. However, there were significant differences (p < 0.05) in the digestibility of ethereal extract (fat). Despite this, values for apparent metabolizable energy and apparent metabolizable energy corrected by nitrogen balance did not exhibit significant differences (p > 0.05) between the reference and experimental diets. In conclusion, the incorporation of 3.5% fish waste oil in laying hens' diets led to satisfactory nutrient digestibility and enhanced fat digestibility. Importantly, this inclusion did not adversely impact energy metabolism.
Physiological, immunological and microbial effects of soybean bioactive peptides and vitamin E supplementing to broiler diet
Authors: Sa’adoon Waleed Hailan , Abbas Rabia Jaddoa
Published: February 2024

The physiological, immunological, and microbiological traits of 180 Ross-308 broiler chickens were examined in relation to supplementary soybean bioactive peptide (SBP) levels and vitamin E. Group 1 was the control group, Groups 2, 3, and 4 were given a basal diet along with 2.5, 5, and 7.5 g SBP kg-1 of diet, respectively, and Group 5 was given a basal diet together with 250 mg of vitamin E kg-1 of diet. An improvement in the globulin, albumin-to-globulin ratio, total antioxidant activity (except 7.5 g), SOD, and GSH-PX (except 7.5 g) activities in SBP treatment groups compared to the control. In comparison with control, feeding SBP improved bursa index, IgA, and IgG concentrations in blood serum. Feed supplementation with 5 g SBP significantly increased relative weight of spleen and IgM concentrations. Feeding SBP increased lactic acid bacteria in the ileum and caecum while decreasing E. coli counts in the ileum as compared with control. None of the selected serum biochemical indices, immune-related parameters, and total bacterial count were statistically different between the vitamin E group and the control. Therefore, 5 and 7.5 g of SBP kg-1 in a broiler diet was able to boost antioxidant status, antibacterial activity, and birds' immune response.
Bayesian approach for a 2 x 2 crossover design with repeated measures: a simulation study
Authors: Lopez Yaciled Miranda , Nogueira Denismar Alves , Beijo Luiz Alberto
Published: February 2024

In crossover designs, the subjects receive all treatments, according to the groups of sequences formed. Therefore, if carryover effects are present in the model, inferences about the treatments effects become difficult. Furthermore, repeated measures of the response variable can be taken over time in the same experimental unit; however, these measures may be correlated. In this way, we aimed to analyze a 2 x 2 crossover design with repeated measures within the treatment period, using a Bayesian approach. A simulation study was performed to evaluate the performance. The posterior estimates of the model parameters were obtained under non-informative prior distributions and the normal likelihood function. The model performed well with a sample size of 20 subjects, showing even better results with samples of 100 subjects. With larger samples, exact tests for the differences in carryover effects and time effects were obtained. However, the test of time effect proved to be powerful even with small samples. In turn, considering carryover effects different from zero did not influence the estimates of treatment differences, although biased estimates of the period effect were obtained.
Discrimination of baru oil adulteration with soy oil using portable near infrared spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Partial Least-Squares Discriminant
Authors: Trindade Tamara Mendes Leite Silva , Magalhães Laiz de Oliveira , Bandeira Stephane , Colares Carla  Jovania Gomes , Souza Nelson Luis Gonçalves Dias de
Published: February 2024

Considered an important source of bioactive compounds and unsaturated fatty acids, Baru oil comes from the Brazilian Cerrado ecoregion and is sold with high value. Methods to detect tampering to certify the authenticity of this type of product are in great demand for quality control. Herein, this study used partial least squares for discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) combined with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and portable near-infrared spectroscopy (NIR) for the detection of adulteration in Baru oil, using soybean oil as an adulterant. Adulteration concentrations were 10, 30, 50, 60, and 80% for analysis by NIR and 10, 30, 50, 60, 70, and 90% for FTIR. After the spectral range selection and pre-processing steps, discrimination models showed good discrimination, and the efficiency was confirmed from the figures of merit, which highlighted percentages above 99% with both techniques used. Anomalous samples were identified in discrimination models obtained with a portable NIR spectrometer in the outlier detection step. The methodology evaluated is direct, fast, and non-destructive, in which the PLS-DA models obtained from the sets of spectra by FTIR presented superior results than those evaluated with the portable NIR spectrometer; however, the latter was also efficient in discriminating as adulterated, reinforcing the feasibility of using spectroscopic techniques and chemometric tools.
Study of Stir Casting and Microstructure of Al-B4C MMCs
Authors: Annigeri Ulhas , Simha Sekharam Charan
Published: February 2024

The economic, performance, and environmental advantages of accepting Aluminium (Al) metal matrix composites (MMCs) over steel, cast iron and light alloys are driving forces behind their utilisation. The transportation industry benefits from reduced noise, reduced emissions from airplanes, and reduced fuel use. Continuous research in this field has resulted in improved manufacturing procedures, allowing these Aluminium based composite materials to be used in aerospace industry, marine and vehicle applications rather than most monolithic materials. The industrial sector is rapidly developing, which increases demand for innovative materials. In cases where 'wear' is a critical issue, conservative materials and alloys have limits in reaching the appropriate hard characteristic. Al-MMCs are composite materials that contain Al or an alloy of Al. It acts as the matrix and the reinforcement distributed across the matrix. Common reinforcing materials include fibres, whiskers, and particles. Because of its enhanced density, great hardness, and thermal stability, ceramic reinforcement is the most used. However, they have limits such as less ability to wet and compatibility with the Al matrix. The major production processes for Al-MMCs are powder and liquid metallurgy. All the manufacturing procedures outlined are appropriate, however casting with stir to mix is cost-effective, particularly for big production runs. The distribution of reinforcement evenly to generate a flaw-free structure at micro level and hence raise the resistance to hard behaviour is a critical difficulty in the synthesis of MMCs of Al. Al-MMCs with particle reinforcement have increased mechanical characteristics and wear resistance. Furthermore, the production of MMCs reinforced with particulates is an exciting task, with questions arising due to ductility decline as the weight percent of ceramic particulate reinforcement is increased, gravity segregation due to denser particulates, and oxidation due to the use of Al alloy, which is very susceptible to oxidation. In the present study Al6061-3% B4C MMCs have been developed by stir casting technique. Al6061 is an extruded raw material as purchased from the supplier (and not an ingot) used before remelting and manufacturing the MMCs. The microstructure of the manufactured Al-alloy and Al-MMCs are evaluated. It is observed that stir casting is a suitable method to manufacture Al-MMCs.
Optimization Techniques in Compression Moulding: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Sahu Rohit , Singh Mritunjay Kumar , Singh Gurjeet , Agarwal Neeraj , Yadav Anil Singh , Chincholkar Preeti , Malviya Jitendra , Bokade Ramesh
Published: February 2024

Quality and productivity have been used as terms to control process parameters and lower process defects. Several defects emerge when products are manufactured using the compression moulding process.Since the second-largest industrial process used to produce plastic goods and also the most popular method of producing thermoset and thermoplastic polymer composites is compression moulding.By this method control of temperature and pressure gives the desired shape of product. This method can be applied to both thermoset and thermoplastic materials. Due to the low flow index of thermoset plastics, considerable pressure is needed, which can only be achieved by the compression moulding method.The components, functionality, equipment, and tooling behaviour of the compression moulding process are covered in this study of paper. The advantages, drawbacks, and equipment used, as well as the material processing parameters, part design, tooling, and cost of compression moulding process parts are also discussed.In this work, many process variables—including moulding temperature, pressure, preheat time, and material weight are taken into account for the response research of the mechanical properties and internal defects created by the compression moulding process.
The effectiveness of wound cleansing using Cocor Bebek (Kalanchoe pinnata) leaves in healing diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Farida Imroatul , Yuliastuti Christina , Huda Nuh , Astuti Nur Muji , Lutfiana Vedia
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Cocor Bebek (Kalanchoe pinnata) leaves in wound cleaning for diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) and compare it with the use of NaCl solution. Diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications, such as DFU, pose a global health problem with increasing prevalence. Given the escalating occurrence of DFU, timely and effective treatment is crucial to prevent severe complications, including amputation. This research employed a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group and was conducted at Rumah Luka Surabaya, Indonesia. The sample comprised 40 respondents with DFU, divided into an intervention group (using Cocor Bebek leaves) and a control group (using NaCl solution). Respondents' characteristics, including age, sex, occupation, duration of diabetes, and other factors, were assessed to understand their impact on the response to treatment. The results demonstrated a significant improvement in DFU wound healing in the intervention group after using Cocor Bebek leaves (p<0.05), along with reduced scores on Bates Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT) indicators such as wound edge, tunnel, and necrotic tissue type. Conversely, the control group using NaCl solution also exhibited significant improvement in wound healing (p<0.05), with decreased scores on indicators such as the amount of necrotic tissue and the quantity of exudate. This study underscores the potential of Cocor Bebek leaves in aiding wound healing in DFU, evident from clinical improvements and reduced BWAT scores. However, further research and clinical trials are needed to comprehensively support these findings and understand the mechanism of action, as well as the safety of using Cocor Bebek leaves in diabetic patients.
Epicardial Adipose Tissue and Heart Failure, Friend or Foe?
Authors: Cho Dong-Hyuk , Park Seong-Mi
Published: February 2024

Heart failure (HF) management guidelines recommend individualized assessments based on HF phenotypes. Adiposity is a known risk factor for HF. Recently, there has been an increased interest in organ-specific adiposity, specifically the role of the epicardial adipose tissue (EAT), in HF risk. EAT is easily assessable through various imaging modalities and is anatomically and functionally connected to the myocardium. In pathological conditions, EAT secretes inflammatory cytokines, releases excessive fatty acids, and increases mechanical load on the myocardium, resulting in myocardial remodeling. EAT plays a pathophysiological role in characterizing both HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). In HFrEF, EAT volume is reduced, reflecting an impaired metabolic reservoir, whereas in HFpEF, the amount of EAT is associated with worse biomarker and hemodynamic profiles, indicating increased EAT activity. Studies have examined the possibility of therapeutically targeting EAT, and recent studies using sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors have shown potential in reducing EAT volume. However, further research is required to determine the clinical implications of reducing EAT activity in patients with HF.
Role of Leukocyte-associated immunoglobulin-like receptor-1 (LAIR-1) as a prognostic marker in Egyptian patients with B-cell Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Elbaz Osama , Shahin Doaa , Salah Eldin Manal , El-Sayed Amira , EL-Sebaie Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Background

B-chronic lymphocytic leukemia (B-CLL) is the most common lymphoproliferative in adults and most patients are diagnosed by flow cytometry. High-risk B-CLL has been shown to lack the expression of (LAIR-1 or CD305), an inhibitor of B-cell receptor-mediated signaling.

Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the expression of CD305 cell surface in patients with B-cell and its correlation with the clinical and prognostic relevance of the disease.

Patients and methods

This study was performed on 100 patients newly diagnosed with B-CLL (72 males and 28 females) with a median age of (59 y), who were admitted to the Oncology Center of Mansoura University, in addition to 40 healthy individuals who served as a control group. The detection of CD305 and other CDs was performed using specific monoclonal antibodies on a flow cytometer (BD Bioscience FacsCanto II Flow Cytometer, USA) and was further analyzed using flow software (BD Biosciences).

Results

CD305 was positively expressed in 58% of B-CLL patients compared with 35% of the control group. It had a significant positive correlation with both Hb level and platelet count (P=0.005 and 0.036 respectively), but showed a significant negative correlation with the WBC count (P=0.005). CD38 expression was significantly higher in the CD305-negative group compared with the CD305-positive group (P=0.04). The expression of CD305 was significantly elevated in low B-CLL stages than in higher stages (P<0.05).

Conclusion

There was a significant negative correlation between CD305 with WBCS. CD38 was a significantly increased expression in the CD305-negative group compared with the CD305-positive group. The number of cases receiving treatment in the CD305-negative group was higher compared with the CD305-positive group. CD305 expression could be used as simple, reliable, inexpensive independent prognostic factors in B-CLL patients with a valuable predictive role for patients who will initiate chemotherapy early.
Soluble transferrin receptor concentration compared with reticulocyte hemoglobin content as a reliable marker of iron deficiency anemia in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Elhabiby Hebatuallah A , Elbedewy Tamer A , Mabrouk Maaly M , ElAhwal Loai M , El-shall Nelly D , Aboelnasr Mohamed S
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Adequate iron stores are necessary for successful erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) therapy in hemodialysis (HD) patients. However, iron status estimation in HD patients remains challenging, as most parameters are affected by inflammation. We aimed to compare the performance of soluble transferrin receptor concentration (sTfR) and reticulocyte hemoglobin content (CHr) as potential markers for iron status assessment.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study that included 60 anemic patients with kidney failure on regular HD for a minimum of 3 months. Patients were in the maintenance phase of the ESAs with stable doses for at least 4 weeks and at least 3 weeks free of iron therapy. Patients were classified into two groups; group I: 18 patients with noniron deficiency anemia (NIDA); transferrin saturation (TSAT) greater than 20% and ferritin greater than 200 ng/ml and group II: 42 patients with iron deficiency anemia (IDA); transferrin saturation less than 20% and/or ferritin less than 200 ng/ml. CHr and sTfR were evaluated as reliable markers for diagnosing iron deficiency.

Results

CHr was significantly lower while sTfR was significantly higher in patients with IDA. Based on the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the area under the curve (AUC) of sTfR was significantly larger than the area under the curve of CHr; however, this had a borderline significance.

Conclusion

sTfR has a significantly higher diagnostic power for diagnosis of IDA than CHr.
Clear Cell Sarcoma of the Kidney Mimicking Wilms Tumor in a Child
Authors: Krishna Anoop , Joseph Susy , Krishnan A. S. Ajith , Kiran N. , Prasanth V. R. , Nair Sindhu
Published: February 2024

Background:

Clear cell sarcoma of the kidney (CCSK) is a rare malignant renal tumor in children, the diagnosis of which is a challenge due to nonspecific clinical and radiological presentation.

Clinical Description:

A 4-year-old boy presented with a 2-day history of abdominal pain and hematuria, without oliguria, pallor, or hypertension. His renal function was within the normal limits. An initial ultrasound of the abdomen showed an iso- to hyperechoic lesion in the mid pole of the right kidney causing compression of the pelvicalyceal system. A computed tomography scan revealed a relatively heterogenous hypoenhancing mass lesion with a “claw sign” suggestive of solid renal neoplasm with doubtful infiltration of quadratus lumborum and psoas muscle, most probably Wilms tumor.

Management and Outcome:

The child was started on neoadjuvant chemotherapy with vincristine, actinomycin D, and doxorubicin according to the National Wilms Tumor Study protocol (NWTS) suspecting stage III Wilms tumor. After six cycles, surgical resection of the tumor was done, which on histopathological examination, was consistent with CSSK. The child received postoperative flank irradiation. Chemotherapy was escalated to Regimen I (vincristine, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide, and etoposide) for 24 weeks. The child improved and was free of metastasis till the last follow-up.

Conclusion:

Before a renal tumor is labeled as Wilms tumor, all efforts must be made to rule out the more sinister, but similar appearing CCSK, so that an effective and aggressive treatment regimen can be administered timely.
Bridging Bronchus – An Unsuspected Airway Anomaly Associated with Congenital Heart Disease: A Case Report with Review of Literature
Authors: Gailson Tonyot , Singh Ritika , Bhatia Anmol , Pilania Rakesh Kumar , Baranwal Arun Kumar
Published: February 2024

Background:

The association of airway anomalies with congenital heart disease (CHD) is common, but often remains undetected, due to a lack of awareness. We describe the unfortunate demise of an infant with CHD due to delayed diagnosis of a bridging bronchus (BB) with multifocal bronchial stenosis.

Clinical Description:

An 18-month-old boy, who was a known case of ventricular septal defect (VSD), was hospitalized for the third time with symptoms of pneumonia and congestive heart failure. He also had intermittent stridor and wheeze similar to his earlier illnesses.

Management and Outcome:

After stabilization with bubble continuous positive airway pressure, antibiotics, and diuretics, he underwent surgery for the VSD and got extubated successfully on day 3. Subsequently, however, he failed to get weaned off further from respiratory support and started having recurrent episodes of stridor along with suprasternal retractions and wheeze. Computerized tomography (CT) showed BB with multifocal stenosis of the airway and sequestration of the left lower lobe of the lung. He developed pneumonia and succumbed to the illness before he could be considered for surgical correction of the airway anomalies.

Conclusion:

Awareness about associated airway anomalies and their preoperative detection may alter prognostication, parental counseling, surgical approach, and final outcome.
Intramedullary mature teratoma in an adult: A case report
Authors: Gökyar Ahmet , Bahadır Sinan , Çokluk Cengiz
Published: February 2024

Intraspinal mature teratomas rarely occur in adults. There is little published information about the diagnosis and prognosis of adult-onset intradural spinal teratoma due to its rarity. We describe a rare case of adult intramedullary mature teratoma. A 36-year-old woman presented with complaint of a long-standing low back pain accompanied by progressive numbness of the lower extremities for a month. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an intramedullary tumor extending between T11 and L3. Gross excision of mass was performed with no complications. Patient symptoms improved over time and she is still under follow-up. Intramedullary mature teratoma in adults is rare but reports suggest an increase in recent years. These tumors manifest themselves based on their location within the spinal cord and the affected surrounding nerve roots. MRI is the most helpful imaging modality. But definitive diagnosis is accomplished by histopathological examination. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment. For pure mature teratomas, gross resection is comparable with radical resection. In general, prognosis for these tumors is good, with most patients showing improved neurological status or stability after resection.
Management outcomes of cervical radiculopathy with conservative treatment, anterior cervical discectomy fusion (ACDF), and anterior cervical disc replacement (ACDR)—Retrospective single center matched cohort study
Authors: Basu Saumyajit , Joshi Piyush , Hanasoge Vikas , Guduru Aditya V , Gadegone Piyush W , Jain Mitul
Published: February 2024

Background:

Degenerative cervical radiculopathy results from nerve root compression in the cervical neural foramina, often due to a herniated disc, osteophyte, or facetal/ligamentum flavum hypertrophy. Typically, 80% of patients show improvement within the initial 12 weeks through nonoperative measures, with surgical intervention considered for non-responders. This study aimed to compare clinical and radiological outcomes in cervical radiculopathy patients undergoing prolonged conservative care, anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF), or anterior cervical disc replacement (ACDR) after a 1‐year follow‐up.

Materials and Methods:

Our study was a retrospective single‐center study involving 780 cervical radiculopathy patients from January 2012 to December 2021. About 80.12% found relief with conservative management within 12 weeks. Remaining 155 patients were offered surgery, with 73 opting for continued conservative care, and 82 undergoing surgery (55 with ACDF and 27 with ACDR). Evaluation was done using visual analogue scale (VAS), Neck Disability Index (NDI), and radiographic parameters.

Results:

The mean follow‐up was 11.58 ± 6.7 months. ACDR group: Mean age 43.38 ± 8.56, VAS 7.81 ± 1.04 preoperatively, improved significantly to 2.07 ± 1.34 (P < 0.05) at 1‐year follow‐up. ACDF group: Mean age 44.85 ± 10.65, VAS 8.22 ± 1.21 preoperatively, improved significantly to 2.09 ± 1.01 (P < 0.05) at 1‐year follow‐up. Conservative group: Mean age 45.04 ± 11.19, VAS 7.77 ± 1.86 preoperatively, improved significantly to 2.08 ± 1.40 (P < 0.05) at 1‐year follow‐up. Radiographic parameters significantly improved in all groups at 1‐year follow‐up (P < 0.05). Range of motion (ROM) changes varied across groups. Miyazaki’s grading and Kim’s score showed comparable results.

Conclusion:

Comparable clinical and radiological outcomes were observed among conservative, ACDF, and ACDR approaches. ACDR approach demonstrated a better NDI score outcome. Neck ROM was better maintained or improved in the ACDR approach, decreased in ACDF, and remained almost similar in the conservative group.
Simple Objective Assessment to Determine Nutritional Status of Hemodialysis Patients
Authors: Mehta Kejal , Vadlapatla Krishnapriya Priya , Patel Zamurrud , Shah Bharat
Published: February 2024

Objective:

The objective is to determine nutritional status of hemodialysis (HD) patients using simple objective assessment (SOA) method.

Methods:

A total of 54 stable patients were evaluated at our dialysis center. All patients were undergoing maintenance HD for at least 6 months. Nutritional status was assessed by subjective global assessment (SGA) and SOA which included two parameters, i.e., change over past 6 months in weight and albumin.

Results:

The SGA scoring showed that 39 (72.22%) patients were well nourished, 14 (25.92%) mild to moderately malnourished, and 1 (1.85%) severely malnourished. Using the SOA scoring, 40 (74.07%) patients were well nourished, 13 (24.07%) mild to moderately malnourished, and 1 (1.85%) severely malnourished. There was good correlation between the two scoring methods with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.85.

Conclusion:

Our study shows that SOA using delta weight and delta albumin over 6 months provides as good information as SGA (R = 0.85) and is easy to implement in routine clinical practice.
Integral equivariant cohomology of affine Grassmannians
Authors: Anderson David
Published: February 2024

We give explicit presentations of the integral equivariant cohomology of the affine Grassmannians and flag varieties in type A, arising from their natural embeddings in the corresponding infinite (Sato) Grassmannian and flag variety. These presentations are compared with results obtained by Lam and Shimozono, for rational equivariant cohomology of the affine Grassmannian, and by Larson, for the integral cohomology of the moduli stack of vector bundles on .
Elucidating the cardioprotective mechanisms of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors beyond glycemic control
Authors: Zhang Ke-Xin , Kan Cheng-Xia , Han Fang , Zhang Jing-Wen , Sun Xiao-Dong
Published: February 2024

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors have emerged as a pivotal intervention in diabetes management, offering significant cardiovascular benefits. Empagliflozin, in particular, has demonstrated cardioprotective effects beyond its glucose-lowering action, reducing heart failure hospitalizations and improving cardiac function. Of note, the cardioprotective mechanisms appear to be inde-pendent of glucose lowering, possibly mediated through several mechanisms involving shifts in cardiac metabolism and anti-fibrotic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative pathways. This editorial summarizes the multifaceted cardiovascular advantages of SGLT2 inhibitors, highlighting the need for further research to elucidate their full therapeutic potential in cardiac care.
“Like rubbing salt into the wound”: Lived experiences of homeless youth in Gondar City, Ethiopia
Authors: Bihonegn Adugna Abebe
Published: February 2024

Despite growing research on homeless street children, women and elderly people in Ethiopia, there is little empirical evidence regarding the experiences of homeless street youth in the country.  The purpose of this qualitative phenomenological research is therefore to understand the lived experiences of street homeless youth aged between 18 and 29 years in Gondar city.  Face -to- face in-depth interview was conducted with 9 purposively selected study participants.  Interviews were transcribed, coded, categorized and thematized through thematic analysis strategy. Five themes emerged from the data analysis include Reasons for becoming homeless; Social marginalization; Violence and Criminalization; Psychological distress; and Means of a living. Findings of this study illustrate that homeless youth suffered from poor health, sexual violence, psychological trauma, social stigma and hostility from the public. The combined effect of these precarious situations places homeless youth at the margins of society and makes them feel helpless in their daily lives.  This study implies that social workers should use and promote family- and community-based interventions to deal with the problem of homeless youths and integrate them into society.
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Bihonegn, A. (2023). “Like rubbing salt into the wound”: Lived experiences of homeless youth in Gondar City, Ethiopia. African Journal of Social Work, 13(5), 265-272. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i5.5
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Social work ethos in indigenous Shona music: a qualitative content analysis of the song Mugariro (Ephat Mujuru, 1994) through Ubuntu philosophy and Ukama construct in Zimbabwe
Authors: Chigangaidze Robert
Published: February 2024

Several analysts working within the dominant Western paradigms are unwilling to evaluate and examine their indigenous perspectives as they find their structures to be culturally dependent rather than logical. Inspired by the principles of decolonial social work, this article analyses the song Mugariro (a way of living) by Ephat Mujuru, 1994, through the African philosophy of Ubuntu and its construct of ukama (relatedness/ relationality). Utilizing qualitative content analysis, this paper latently explores the song Mugariro and reflects on themes such as a good way of life, Ukama (relatedness/ relationality), an extension of Ukama to non-humans, global citizenship and spirituality in social work. The paper calls for social workers willing to work towards decolonial social work to tap into the knowledge in their localities and integrate it with social work knowledge were possible.
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Chigangaidze, R. K. (2023). Social work ethos in indigenous Shona music: a qualitative content analysis of the song Mugariro (Ephat Mujuru,1994) through Ubuntu philosophy and Ukama construct in Zimbabwe.  African Journal of Social Work, 13(6), 285-293. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i6.2
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Personal communication as a phenomenon in Algerian society: an ethnographic study on a sample of families in the state of M'Sila
Authors: Takiedddine Yahia , Taqiyeddine Belabes
Published: February 2024

This study was conducted in the province of M’Sila, Algeria, to understand the patterns of personal communication the patterns refer to the exchange of information, ideas, opinions, or emotions between two or more individuals in a direct and personal manner, typically through verbal or nonverbal means such as face-to-face conversations, phone calls, video chats, or written messages. It can occur between friends, family members, within families and its importance in strengthening family relationships. The researchers used Ethnographic methodology as a technique to reach the participants observation and interview tools to analyze the patterns of personal communication within families. The study showed that personal communication within families is continuous and characterized by affection, love, and respect, and there are differences in personal communication patterns between older and younger generations. The study also indicated that personal communication plays an important role in building family relationships, enhancing communication, and empathy among family members. The results of this study can be used to design training and educational programs to promote personal communication within families and enhance family relationships, thus promoting family health and stability.
How to reference using ASWNet style:
Takiedddine Y & Taqiyeddine B. (2023). Personal communication as a phenomenon in Algerian society: an ethnographic study on a sample of families in the state of M'Sila. African Journal of Social Work, 13(6), 294-302. https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/ajsw.v13i6.3
Visit journal website: https://ajsw.africasocialwork.net
Characterization and classification of three major soils at the college of agriculture, Jalingo, Taraba State, Nigeria
Authors: Kefas P.K. , Ofem K.I. , Hammanjoda A. , Garjila Y.A.
Published: February 2024

Adequate information on land resources have been identified as a pre-requisite for sustainable land management. The present study was carried out to characterize and classify the soils of College of Agriculture, Jalingo, Taraba State, and to suggest soil management recommendations for optimum crop yield. Digital elevation model (DEM) of the study location was obtained and the slope map of the area generated using ArcGIS (ESRI, US) software. This was used to identify the major soils (MU1, MU2 and MU3). Two soil profile pits were sited in each of MU1 and MU2, and one pit was sited in MU3. The soils were described and sampled for laboratory analyses. The results revealed the dominance of transitional horizons namely; AB, BC and CB which also showed raised proportions of clay. The soils were shallow to bedrock and dominated by brown, dark yellowish brown and gray colours (moist) in the surface soils and reddish to yellowish brown in the subsurface horizons. Sand size fraction dominated the particle size distribution and resulted in sandy loam and sandy clay loam textural classes. All the soils had bulk density < 1.50 g cm−3. Soil pH was slightly acid to neutral and values in water were higher than those in CaCl2 in all horizons. Organic carbon, total N, available P and exchangeable bases were low in most of the soils, while base saturation was high. Two of the soils (MU1 and MU2) were classified as Alfisols while MU3 was classified as an Entisol according to the USDA system. According to the World Reference Base for Soil Resources system of classification, MU1 and MU2 were classified as Lixisols and MU3 as a Gleysol. The incorporation of organic manure, cropping across slopes, and practicing afforestation are recommended for soil nutrient management.
Consumers’ aversion to food safety risk associated with cowpea storage In Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Nelson N.E. , Eneyo Q.E. , Etim N.A.
Published: February 2024

When consumers are averse to food risk, they take proactive steps that will eliminate or reduce their exposure to such risks, which in turn can contribute to reducing the global burden of disease. This study assessed consumers’ aversion to food safety risk associated with cowpea storage. The analysis used survey data from 120 consumers collected through interviews with the use of questionnaire. Consumers’ response to the food hazard information under consideration was analyzed descriptively and the predisposing factors for receiving information and being averse to food risks were analyzed using probit regression. About 22.50% of respondents were implicitly excluded from making informed decisions given that they did not receive the food hazard information. Most respondents (55.91%) who received the information are averse to the associated risks, but majority of those who are averse (92.31%) focused on reducing their risk exposure and the severity of possible health effects rather than eliminating the risk. Also, up to 86% of those who initially exhibited extreme risk avoidance behaviours switched to tolerant ones. These findings highlight the extent to which behaviours are sustained while food hazards at issue may still exist, the importance of ensuring non-exclusivity in disseminating food safety alerts and information, and the need to design consumer focused interventions to ensure safe food consumption pending the strengthening of relevant food safety institutions in developing regions.
Evaluation of selected burnt plant residues and mineral fertilizers on soil properties and nutrient uptake and growth parameters of oil palm seedlings
Authors: Ayeni L.S. , Agbona I.A. , Akinola O.S.
Published: February 2024

Oil palm seeds are difficult to grow due to poor viability; that is why they are raised in nursery. Addition of right and adequate fertilizer is needed to improve soil fertility. Thus, an experiment was conducted in 2022 to compare the effect of empty palm bunch (EPBA) ash, cocoa pod husk ash (CPHA), kola pod husk ash (KPHA), NPK 20:10:10, urea, calcium ammonium nitrate (CAN) and muriate of potash (MOP) fertilizers on soil properties, nutrients uptake and growth parameters of oil palm seedlings in Ondo, southwestern Nigeria. Soil samples were collected from Adeyemi Federal University of Education oil palm plantation. Each of the dried empty palm bunch, kola pod husk and cocoa pod husk was burnt and applied as treatments at the rate of 0, 2, 4 and 6 g 900-g−1 soil while NPK 20:10:10, urea, MOP and CAN fertilizers were individually applied at 2 g 900-g−1 soil. The 16 treatments were replicated four times and  arranged in completely randomized design. A 900 g of soil was put in each poly pot and planted with Tenera variety of oil palm and watered with 50 cl water daily. The native soil used for the experiment was deficient in major nutrients and adequate in minor nutrients. Relative to the control, application of 2, 4 and 6 g ash types significantly increased plant height, number of leaves, root length and plant girth. NPK, recorded the highest increase in plant height. Leaf length and root length were highest with the application of 6 g KPHA. Application of 6 g EPBA recorded the highest biomass, dry and wet weight and seedlings moisture content. Kola pod husk ash applied at 6 g plant−1. Empty palm bunch ash applied at 6 g plant−1 and cocoa pod husk ash applied at 4 g plant−1 compared favourably with mineral fertilizers in raising vigorous and healthy oil palm seedlings.
Determinants of engagement outcomes of N-power agripreneurship graduates’ social investment programme in Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: Nwaobiala C.U. , Onwukwe F.O. , Ukoha J.C.I. , Mbagwu G.N.
Published: February 2024

This study analyzed the determinants of engagement outcomes of N-power agripreneurship graduates’ social investment programme in Abia State, Nigeria. Simple random sampling was used in the selection of 80 graduate beneficiaries that participated in N-power programme. Data were collected with a structured  questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive (frequency counts, percentages and mean scores) and inferential (multiple regression analysis) statistics. Results show that the participants had high engagement (X̄ = 2.30) and outcomes (X̄ = 3.30) from N-power agripreneurship programme trainings. Psychological development (B = 3.81***), mastery of skills (β = −3.99***), positive identity (β = 2.63**), civic participation (β = −2.68**) and understanding needs/wants (β = 2.73**) influenced engagement outcomes derived by beneficiaries of N-power agripreneurship programme trainings. The study therefore recommended the provision and creation of an enabling environment for graduates to ensure psychological balance, skill acquisition and need assistance through provision of infrastructures for effective civic engagement in the programme.
The culinary traits: cooking time and canning quality of pulses
Authors: Ukomadu J. , Odogwu B.A. , Agbagwa I.O.
Published: February 2024

Pulses are one of the most important plant proteins and they contribute to food and nutrition security. Their long cooking time is a major factor that has rendered these pulses underutilized because high amount of energy is required to make them palatable. This report highlights two major culinary qualities (cooking time and canning quality) of some pulses with the aim of identifying their cooking time and canning quality methodology. It presents different reports on the cooking time and canning quality of pulses published from 2005 to 2021 for cooking time and from 1996 to 2021 for canning quality. Nineteen journals were selected for cooking time and canning quality. Google scholar served as main source of data. Key words such as determination of cooking time, and canning quality of pulses were used. This report showed that cooking methods of pulses were mainly sensory analysis, tactile, Mattson cooker, pressure cooker, VIS/NIR spectroscopy, solid loss, glass slide, and hyperspectral imaging. While canning quality parameter identified include: wash drain weight and percentage drain weight, firmness splitting, texture, visual appearance, colour, hydration coefficient, overall acceptance. The report also showed that 5% yellow pea, 5% lentil, 5% dolichos, 33% cowpea, 5% chickpea, 47% common bean were the pulses identified for cooking time. While canning quality is 6%, runner bean, 19% cowpea 75%, common bean 75%. We suggested that breeding should be focused on canning quality and shorter cooking time to enhance the utilization of these pulses. This result therefore provides information for researchers, pulse breeders, producers and agronomists in Nigeria and Africa.
Effect of Dactyladenia barteri mulch and NPK fertilizer on weed density, ginger production and soil recapitalization in Umudike, Southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ekeledo P.I. , Chukwu G.O.
Published: February 2024

A field study conducted on a Gleyic Luvisol in Umudike, southeastern Nigeria, in 2017 and 2018 evaluated the effect of Dactyladenia barteri mulch and NPK fertilizer 15:15:15 on weed density, ginger production and soil health. Treatment consisted of three levels of mulch (0, 2 and 4 t ha–1) and two levels of NPK fertilizer (0.00 and 400 kg ha−1) laid in a randomized complete block design with 3 replicates on 2 x 2 m plots, using 0.20 x 0.20 m spacing. Planting was done in May each year and harvested eight months after planting. Results showed that control plot had 187.80 higher significant weed density than 2 and 4 t ha–1 mulch (88.20 and 81.80), respectively. Fertilizer had no significant effect on weed density. Ginger survival at 2.00 and 4.00 t ha–1 mulch (94.40 and 96%) differed significantly from the control plot (42.20%). Number of tillers in mulched plots (t ha–1) followed the order: 4 > 2 > 0 in both years. Fertilizer rate at 400 kg ha–1 gave higher significant rhizome yield more than 0 kg ha–1 in both years. Mulch at 4 t ha–1 increased soil pH by 12% relative to 7.94% increase by NPK fertilizer. Total N, available P and exchangeable K were increased by 12.30, 64.30 and 14.30% respectively, by mulch at 4 t ha–1, while NPK fertilizer increased total N, available P and exchangeable K by 5.60, 31.40 and 9.38%, respectively. It was concluded that application of Dactyladenia barteri mulch and NPK fertilizer reduced weed density, improved ginger production and recapitalized soil in Umudike, southeastern, Nigeria.
Household Water Use Efficiency and its implication for Sustainable Accessibility: A Case Study
Authors: Ogunbode Timothy , Afolabi Christiana , Oyebamiji Victor , Ogungbile Peter , Akande John
Published: February 2024

The existential value of water for human survival and sustenance prompted the need to determine factors responsible for water use efficiency (WUE) among twenty-seven households working in Bowen University, Iwo, Nigeria. The households were made up of academic and non-academic staff who, by virtue of their exposure and experience are knowledgeable enough to respond accurately to the insightful questions. Specialized variables of indoor water use were assessed using a structured questionnaire. Estimates of usedvolume of each variable/day were expressed in litres, the frequency of use and the sources of the used water were obtained. All respondents have tertiary education and are females. The family size ranged from 2 to 5 and they generally source their water (96.37% groundwater) close to their homes and premises. Potential areas of excessive water use in homes were identified, using Factor Analysis, to be laundry, incidental uses and auto-wash which are in the non-consumptive category. The trio constituted 53.33% of all water usage in homes. This is evidently beyond sustainability threshold and demands further attention. Thus, water use efficiency in homes should conservatively address non-consumptive uses by using water-propelled machines at full capacities, water-reuse/recycling and taking sensible responsibilities for resource sustainability.
Severe Cold Harmattan Events in the Northwestern Region of Nigeria from 1961 to 2020
Authors: Folorunsho Alex , Olatunde Adewale Francis , Ibrahim Samuel Ibbi
Published: February 2024

This study examined the occurrences of severe cold harmattan events in Northwestern Nigeria from 1961 to 2020. Monthly minimum temperatures of the harmattan seasons (November to February) for five (5) selected stations: Kaduna, Kano, Gusau, Katsina, and Sokoto, were collected and analyzed over 60 years. A modified Standard Anomaly Index (SAI) was applied to determine the severe cold harmattan (SCH) events for the harmattan seasons. Findings revealed that SCH events occurred 55 times in the study area throughout the study period. In terms of geographical distribution, Sokoto experienced the most frequent SCH events (16 times in 60 years), followed by Kano and Katsina (15 times each). Kaduna had the lowest frequency (3 times), next to Gusau (6 times). Among decades, the second decade (1971-1980) had the highest occurrences of SCH in the study area (15 times in 10 years or 27.27%). Sokoto experienced the highest occurrence in this decade, while both Kaduna and Gusau witnessed the lowest. In regards to total decadal frequency, the most recent decade (2011-2020) and the first decade (1961-1970) tied for second. In general, all stations experienced SCH in the most recent decade (2011-2020). The study suggests that measures should be put in place to mitigate against SCH events that focus on climate change abatement strategies such as conventional mitigation, reduction of negative emissions, and unpleasant land use practices because climate change can increase the frequency of SCH and may put human health at risk of cold-related illnesses.