bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstructed hemivagina with ipsilateral renal anomaly with ureteric remnant in a prepubertal female
Authors: Tumbaga Kariza G. , Tabora Carolyn B. , Manzano Dianne A.
Published: August 2023

Obstructed hemivagina and ipsilateral renal anomaly (OHVIRA), or Herlyn–Werner–Wunderlich syndrome, is a rare Müllerian duct anomaly that is characterized by a triad of uterus didelphys, unilateral obstructed vagina, and ipsilateral renal agenesis. Patients with this anomaly usually present after menarche with abdominal pain or a pelvic mass which worsens over some time. Herein, presented is a case of a 12-year-old nulligravid with cyclic pelvic pain and palpable pelvic mass after her menarche. A series of diagnostic tests were done which were compatible with the diagnosis of OHVIRA with an associated finding of ectopic ureteral insertion into the obstructed hemivagina and nonfunctional urinary bladder. The patient underwent diagnostic hysteroscopy, cystoscopy, and full resection of the longitudinal vaginal septum as well as drainage of hematocolpos, which are the main treatment of the patient with OHVIRA.
Prevalence and severity of ophthalmic manifestations of Graves’ disease in a tertiary center of North India
Authors: Muqsit Numrah , Wani Junaid , Arshed Uzma , Mir Shahnaz Ahmad , Singh Hardeep
Published: August 2023

Background:

Thyroid-associated orbitopathy (TAO) is the most common extrathyroidal manifestation of the systemic autoimmune process known as Graves’ disease (GD). TAO is described as chronic inflammation of orbital and periorbital tissue. The prevalence of Graves’ ophthalmopathy (GO) varies widely in different ethnic groups. Indians have been reported to have a lower prevalence of GO as compared to the West.

Purpose:

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the prevalence, clinical features, and ocular manifestations in patients with GD.

Materials and Methods:

This was a hospital-based prospective study done on consecutive 76 newly diagnosed patients of GD documented by thyroid 99mtechnetium pertechnetate scan. Patients were subjected to complete clinical workup and thyroid profile. All patients underwent a comprehensive ophthalmological examination. The diagnosis of TAO was based on the criteria of Bartley and Gorman. Clinical activity score (CAS) and severity were estimated as per the European Group on Graves’ Orbitopathy.

Results:

TAO was present in 52 (68%) patients with GD. The age of patients ranged from 18 to 68 years, with a mean age of 42.1 ± 11.49 years. The male-to-female ratio was 1:1.6. Eyelid retraction was the most common presentation (78%). Conjunctival redness was seen in 61.5% of patients, followed by eyelid erythema (44.2%), eyelid swelling (32.7%), and plical swelling (23.1%). Almost half of the study group (51.9%) had proptosis of >20 mm. Majority of the patients had mild orbitopathy (65.4%), followed by moderate to severe in 34.6%, and none of the patients showed any signs of sight-threatening disease. None of the patients had a sight-threatening disease. CAS was active in 13.5% of patients.

Conclusion:

Unlike rest of India, TAO was present in about two-third of patients of GD. Majority of the patients had mild orbitopathy (65.4%).
Assouad-like dimensions of a class of random Moran measures. II. Non-homogeneous Moran sets
Authors: Hare Kathryn E. , Mendivil Franklin
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we determine the almost sure values of the

\Phi

-dimensions of random measures

\mu

supported on random Moran sets in

{\mathbb{R}}^d

that satisfy a uniform separation condition. This paper generalizes earlier work done on random measures on homogeneous Moran sets in Hare and Mendivil (2022) to the case of unequal scaling factors. The

\Phi

-dimensions are intermediate Assouad-like dimensions with the (quasi-)Assouad dimensions and the

\theta

-Assouad spectrum being special cases.

The almost sure value of

\dim_\Phi \mu

exhibits a threshold phenomenon, with one value for “large”

\Phi

(with the quasi-Assouad dimension as an example of a “large” dimension) and another for “small”

\Phi

(with the Assouad dimension as an example of a “small” dimension). We give many applications, including both where the scaling factors are fixed and the probabilities are uniformly distributed, and also where the probabilities are fixed and the scaling factors are uniformly distributed.
The pointwise behavior of Riemann’s function
Authors: Broucke Frederik , Vindas Jasson
Published: August 2023

We present a new and simple method for the determination of the pointwise Hölder exponent of Riemann's function

\sum_{n=1}^{\infty} n^{-2}\sin(\pi n^{2} x)

at every point of the real line. In contrast to earlier approaches, where wavelet analysis and the theta modular group were needed for the analysis of irrational points, our method is direct and elementary, being only based on the following tools from number theory and complex analysis: the evaluation of quadratic Gauss sums, the Poisson summation formula, and Cauchy's theorem.
Предельное совместное распределение статистик критериев приближенной $\phi$-энтропии
Authors: Savelov M P
Published: August 2023

Рассмотрим последовательность независимых полиномиальных испытаний с $s$ исходами. Одним из критериев, используемых для проверки гипотезы о равновероятности исходов, является критерий приближенной энтропии. В 2000 г. А. Л. Рухиным была предложена статистика $T^{\phi}$ более общего критерия приближенной $\phi$-энтропии и найдено ее предельное распределение. В настоящей работе обобщение этого результата получено более простым способом. Кроме того, установлено предельное совместное распределение $(T^{\phi_1}, …, T^{\phi_r}$) в ситуации, когда исходы равновероятны. Как следствие, в случае $s=2$ найдено предельное совместное распределение статистик двух критериев пакета NIST: критерия приближенной энтропии и критерия «Serial Test» в предположении о том, что тестируемая последовательность является последовательностью испытаний Бернулли с параметром $\frac12$.
Большие уклонения ветвящегося процесса с частицами двух полов в случайной среде
Authors: Shklyaev Alexander Viktorovich
Published: August 2023

В работе рассматриваются вероятности больших уклонений ветвящегося процесса $N_n$ с частицами двух полов в случайной среде, представляющей собой независимые одинаково распределенные величины. Для такого процесса при определенных условиях на функцию паросочетаний (возможно, зависящую от среды) вводится сопровождающее случайное блуждание $S_n$. При выполнении условия Крамера для шагов блуждания и моментных ограничениях на число потомков одной пары найдена точная асимптотика вероятностей $\mathbf{P}(\ln N_n \in [x,x+\Delta_n))$ при значениях $x/n$, изменяющихся в некотором диапазоне, и всех достаточно медленно стремящихся к нулю при $n\to\infty$ последовательностей $\Delta_n$. Аналогичная теорема доказывается для ветвящегося процесса с частицами двух полов в случайной среде с иммиграцией.
Резонансный процесс Брейта-Уиллера в сильном электромагнитном поле
Authors: Serov Vitalii Dmitrievich , Roshchupkin Sergei Pavlovich , Dubov Viktor Viktorovich
Published: August 2023

Проведено теоретическое исследование резонансного процесса Брейта-Уиллера, модифицированного сильным электромагнитным полем, которое представляется в виде плоской монохроматической волны. Детально изучена резонансная кинематика процесса. Показано, что энергия конечных частиц (электрона и позитрона) зависит от двух параметров: угла вылета электрона (позитрона), а также характерных квантовых параметров стимулированных внешним полем эффекта Комптона и процесса Брейта-Уиллера. В отсутствие интерференции каналов реакции получено резонансное дифференциальное сечение. Показано, что резонансное дифференцильное сечение может на шесть порядков величины превышать соответствующее дифференциальное сечение процесса Брейта-Уиллера без внешнего поля.
Аффинный суперянгиан и квантовый группоид Вейля
Authors: Volkov Vasilii Dmitrievich , Stukopin Vladimir Alekseevich
Published: August 2023

Определены две реализации аффинного суперянгиана $Y_{\hbar}(\widehat{sl}(m|n))$ специальной линейной супералгебры Каца-Муди $\widehat{sl}(m|n)$ для произвольной системы простых корней: в терминах "минималистской" системы образующих и новой системы образующих Дринфельда. Построен изоморфизм между этими двумя реализациями суперянгиана в случае фиксированной системы простых корней. Рассмотрен группоид Вейля, определен его квантовый аналог и задано его действие на суперянгианах, определяемых системами простых корней. Показано, что действие квантового группоида Вейля индуцирует изоморфизмы между суперянгианами, определяемыми разными системами простых корней.
Элементы Шаповалова и диаграммы Хассе
Authors: Algethami Dakhilallah , Mudrov Andrei Igorevich
Published: August 2023

Элементы Шаповалова квантовых групп - это специальные полиномы от отрицательных образующих с коэффициентами в кольце частных подалгебры Картана, которые связывают особые векторы в приводимых модулях Верма с их старшими векторами. С использованием вычислений на диаграммах Хассе, ассоциированных со вспомогательными представлениями, получены явные выражения для элементов Шаповалова неисключительных квантовых групп через матричные элементы квантовых $L$-операторов.
Трехпетлевые $\beta$-функции и соотношения НШВЗ для минимальной суперсимметричной стандартной модели при использовании регуляризации высшими ковариантными производными
Authors: Stepanyantz Konstantin Viktorovich , Haneychuk Olesya Vasilievna , Shirokova Valentina Yur'evna
Published: August 2023

Получены трехпетлевые $\beta$-функции для минимальной суперсимметричной стандартной модели, регуляризованной высшими ковариантными производными при произвольном суперсимметричном перенормировочном предписании. Найдены двухпетлевые аномальные размерности для всех киральных суперполей материи в минимальной суперсимметричной стандартной модели, определенные в терминах голых констант связи. С использованием формулы НШВЗ получены трехпетлевые $\beta$-функции, также определенные в терминах голых констант связи. Это возможно, поскольку при используемой регуляризации соотношения НШВЗ выполняются во всех порядках теории возмущений для ренормгрупповых функций, определенных в терминах голых констант связи. На основании этого получены те же двухпетлевые аномальные размерности и $\beta$-функции, стандартно определенные в терминах перенормированных констант связи при произвольном перенормировочном предписании, не нарушающем суперсимметрию. Также проверено, что при определенном перенормировочном предписании результат полностью совпадает с полученным ранее в $\overline{DR}$-схеме и, таким образом, может считаться его независимым подтверждением.
Влияние взаимодействия кварк-глюонных струн на корреляции частиц в p+p взаимодействиях
Authors: Andronov Evgenii Vladimirovich , Prokhorova Dar'ya Sergeevna , Belousov Anton Andreevich
Published: August 2023

Изучаются начальные состояния p+p взаимодействий и их влияние на чувствительные к ним корреляционные и флуктуационные наблюдаемые посредством рассмотрения процессов мультипомеронного обмена и натяжения цветовых КХД-струн. Исследованы полная струнная динамика, их продольное движение за счет торможения струнных концов и поперечное движение, вызванное притяжением за счет обмена сигма-мезонами с последующим слиянием. Проведены вычисления коэффициента быстротных корреляций, а также сильноинтенсивных переменных, построенных для множественности заряженных частиц $N$ и суммарного попереченого импульса $P_\mathrm{T}$ для неупругих p+p взаимодействий при энергии 200 ГэВ.
Cильные распады состояния $Y(4230)$, подобного чармонию, и радиационные переходы низколежащих состояний чармония
Authors: Gandbold Gurjav
Published: August 2023

В рамках ковариантной кварковой модели с использованием концепции аналитического конфайнмента изучаются сильные распады подобного чармонию состояния $Y(4230)$, полученного коллаборацией BESIII, а также доминирующие радиационные переходы низколежащих возбужденных состояний чармония. Резонанс $Y(4230)$ интерпретируется как четырехкварковое состояние молекулярного типа. Чтобы исключить все конституентные степени свободы из пространства физических состояний и точно зафиксировать перенормированные константы связи адронных состояний, используется условие композитности. Для расчете калибровочно-инвариантных амплитуд переходов в рассматриваемых процессах применяются спиральные амплитуды (лоренцевы структуры). Вычислены парциальная ширина сильного распада $Y\to J/\psi+f_0(980)$ и отношение $\mathcal B(Y {\to} K^{+}K^{-}J/\psi)/\mathcal B(Y\to\pi^{+}\pi^{-}J/\psi)$ коэффициентов ветвления сильных распадов (через резонанс $f_0(980)$) на частицы со скрытыми очарованиями, как те, что наблюдались коллаборацией BESIII в 2002 г. Для описания распределения кварков внутри адрона вводится единственный настроечный параметр состояний чармония $\eta_c( ^1S_0)$, $J/\psi( ^3S_1)$, $\chi_{c0}( ^3P_0 )$, $\chi_{c1}( ^3P_1)$, $h_c( ^1P_1)$ и $\chi_{c2}( ^3P_{2})$. Рассчитаны парциальные ширины однофотонных радиационных распадов для состояний $J/\psi( ^3S_1)$, $\chi_{cJ}( ^3P_{J})$ с $J=\{0, 1,2\}$ и $h_c( ^1P_1)$. Полученные оценки ширин распада находятся в разумном согласии с последними экспериментальными данными.
Bladder Outlet Obstruction: Etiological Pattern in Southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Idowu Najeem Adedamola , Adekunle Adebayo Ayoade , Adeniran Muibat Adesola , Adeleye-Idowu Suliat Adebisi
Published: August 2023

Background: Bladder outlet obstruction (BOO) is a clinical condition that is characterized by impediment to the flow of urine. It affects all age groups with varying etiologies. The pattern of this clinical condition in our setting is unknown. This study aimed at determines the clinico-epidemiological pattern of BOO in southwestern Nigeria. Method: We retrospectively reviewed the case files of patients that were managed for BOO over a period of 10years in our center. Results: A total of 784 patients were managed for BOO during the period under review. Their median age was 65.9years and in all, 486 patients of in the study group had benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) was the most common diagnosis followed by prostate cancer, urethral strictures and neurogenic bladder. While prostate cancer, urethral stricture, neurogenic bladder, bladder cancer, and bladder stone were diagnosed in 181, 90, 20, 5, and 2 patients, respectively. Conclusion: We have done an overview of a clinico-epidemiological pattern of BOO in southwest Nigeria is documented. The most common cause of BOO in men was while in women. It was neurogenic bladder syndrome.
A Case Report and Technique Guide for Stabilization of Tibialis Posterior Tendon Dislocation in an Athlete
Authors: Hussein Hussein Ibrahim , Atinga Mordicai
Published: August 2023

Acute dislocation of the posterior tibial tendon is an infrequent injury that is often missed. This injury is typically observed in young individuals in the course of sports. This is a case of an athlete who presented to our orthopedic clinic a week after injury to his ankle, following forceful eversion of the foot during a football game. Case reports have shown satisfactory results from surgical management, suggesting that this is the preferred treatment option. The report describes a simple and cost-effective technique for the retinaculum repair as well as adding to the small number of case reports on the description and treatment of tibialis posterior tendon dislocation.
Viruses associated with cassava mosaic disease and their alternative hosts along Nigeria-Cameroon border
Authors: Ezeji L.A. , Adediji A.O. , Nkere C.K. , Ogbe O.C. , Onyeka J.T. , Atiri G.I.
Published: August 2023

Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) threatens cassava production across the African continent. Because CMD is widespread in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), it is particularly important to monitor border regions to prevent the introduction of other cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) viruses and strains into regions otherwise considered still free of the viruses. The objective of this study was to establish the occurrence of viruses associated with CMD and their alternate host plants along the Nigeria-Cameroon border. One hundred leaf samples from cassava plants and weed species were collected across 21 locations, along the border regions of Cross River State; and assessed for CMD incidence and severity. Nucleic acid extracts were obtained and used to test for African cassava mosaic virus (ACMV) and East African cassava mosaic virus (EACMV), using polymerase chain reactions. Plants from ten, seven and four locations had mild, moderate and severe CMD symptoms, respectively. Of the 100 samples collected, 68 were symptomatic and 32 were asymptomatic for CMD; while five weed species were symptomatic. ACMV alone was detected in six symptomatic and three asymptomatic cassava leaves. EACMV was singly detected in one symptomatic and two asymptomatic cassava leaves; while 13 cassava leaves from ten locations had mixed ACMV/EACMV infections. One asymptomatic cassava leaf from Ikang tested positive for ACMV and EACMV. EACMV alone was detected on a symptomatic weed species, Sclerocarpus africanus. The occurrence of viruses causing CMD in Nigeria, including the border regions, has now been further documented, and S. africanus is now verified as a host of EACMV. There is a need for further studies on other plants that may be putative reservoirs for cassava mosaic viruses, towards the development of integrated management strategies.
Prevalence of yam nematodes in diverse soil communities, and their morphometrics in the Krachi-Nchumuru District of Ghana
Authors: Enchill A.k. , Nyaku S.T. , Osabutey S. , Lutuf H. , Cornelius E.
Published: August 2023

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is susceptible to dry rot disease, which limits its yields in farmers fields in West Africa.The objective of this study was to assess the occurrence and characteristics of the plant-parasitic nematode (Scutellonema bradys) on yam from the Volta Region of Ghana. A survey was conducted in KrachiI-Nchummuru District in the Volta region in Ghana, using a semi-structured questionnaire in ten communities. Majority of the farmers (62%) were unaware of nematodes and their damage caused to yam. Most interviewees (84%) mentioned the ‘pona’ yam variety as the most susceptible genotype to rot, especially in storage. Twelve nematode genera were identified in soils, and eight under storage conditions. Soil samples had, for relative abundance, 31.5% of nematodes as Scutellonema bradys and 16.8% as Meloidogyne spp. On the other hand, relative abundances in yam peels for S. bradys, Meloidogyne spp. and Pratylenchus spp. were 88.4, 6.0 and 3.3%, respectively. Body lenghts of female S. bradys ranged from 747.3 to 861.9 um. There was a strong positive correlation between tail length and head region diameter (r = 0.81); and stylet knob height and vulva position (r= 0.68). Agglomerative hierarchical clustering (AHC) showed 5 major groups at a dissimilarity of 90%, with sub-groups formed at dissimilarity value of 50%. In-depth survey of communities in the Krachi Nchumuru district revealed that, Scutellonema bradys is a threat to yam production in this region, and results in considerable dry rot disease and yield losses.
Analysis of sorghum social seed network in Tigray, Northern Ethiopia
Authors: Welderufael S. , Abay F. , Ayana A. , Amede T.
Published: August 2023

Proper understanding of the nature of seed exchange among farming communities is fundamental to achieving a sustainable seed system and maintaining crop genetic resources. The objective of this study was to investigate sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) seed sources and analyse their network flow among farmers in Tigray in Northern Ethiopia. A survey was conducted using a semi-structured questionnaire, involving 153 sorghum household farmers selected randomly from six villages; namely Gezaadara, Medabe, Gezameker, Waekel, Munira and Gandostela. Farmers who plaid major roles in the sorghum seed exchange network were identified using social seed network analysis. Results showed that bartering and own-saved seeds were the dominant sources of sorghum seed for farmers throughout the study area; and sorghum seed flow was more confined within villages than beyond. Social capital such as cultural norms, trust and farmers’ desire to increase sorghum production in the communities were the fundamental drivers for farmer sorghum seed exchange. Individuals distinguished as nodal farmers who had high bridging roles could also act as entry points for improved sorghum seed exchange interventions in Tigray.
Renal gross morphological restorative effects of Curcuma longa on sildenafil induced nephrotoxicity among male albino rats.
Authors: Allan Khisa Wanjala , Domnic Marera Oduor , Walter Adero
Published: August 2023

Background: Sildenafil is a phosphodiesterase inhibitor used in the management of erectile dysfunction and management of pulmonary hypertension. Curcuma longa is a traditional herbal plant that is commonly used as a diet in Africa and Asian countries. It has a variety of benefits including; antioxidant, anti-cancerous, management of diabetes and respiratory diseases. The objective of this study was to evaluate the renal gross morphological changes in restorative effects of Curcuma longa on sildenafil induced nephrotoxicity among male albino rats. Methodology: A total of 25 male albino rats were used and classified control or experimental group. Simple random sampling method was used to allocate them into each group. Animals in group1 were only fed on feeds and water ad libitum, group 2 to 5 received Sildenafil 1mg/gm bwt for 15 days. Animals in group 3,4 and 5 were further subjected to Curcuma longa at calculated dose of low, medium and high respectively. Animals in group 2 were sacrificed 4 hours post last dose and the remaining animals were sacrificed 7 days later. On sacrificing gross morphometrics were done. Results: It was observed that mean weight of rat, weight and volume of kidney increased significantly (p=0.0001) in medium and high dose Curcuma longa as compared to Sildenafil induced nephrotoxicity group. The mean length and thickness in medium and high dose Curcuma longa increased significantly (p=0.0001) as compared to Sildenafil induced nephrotoxicity group. Conclusion: Medium and high dose Curcuma longa have renal gross morphological effects on sildenafil induced nephrotoxicity among male albino rats.
Morphological variations of the thyroid gland and its relationship to the recurrent laryngeal nerve: A cadaveric study
Authors: Zulu Jacqueline , Kafumukache Elliot B. , Sikhanyiso Mutemwa , Mukape Mukape , Zulu Mbawe , Banda Mickey , Mucheleng’anga L. A. , Krikor Erzingatsian
Published: August 2023

The thyroid gland is prone to variations due to its embryological origin and descent. These variations can cause distortion of its morphology and have been associated with thyroid disorders. This study aimed to provide evidence-based data on the morphological variations of the thyroid gland. In this study, the morphological variations of the thyroid gland pertained to the presence or absence of pyramidal lobe (PL), levator glandulae thyroidae (LGT) and isthmus. The main objective of this study was to assess the morphological variations of the thyroid gland and its relationship to the recurrent laryngeal nerve in cadavers. This was a cross-sectional descriptive study, conducted at the Pathology Department of the University Teaching Hospitals (UTH) in Lusaka, Zambia. In the study there were 46 cadavers; 36 males and 10 females aged between 20-64. The study involved dissection and removal of the hyoid bone, larynx, trachea, oesophagus, and thyroid gland en bloc. The thyroid gland was observed for the presence of the PL and LGT, and absence of isthmus. If present, the length, width and height were measured using a Vernier caliper. Location of the isthmus as well as the relationship of the thyroid gland to the recurrent laryngeal nerves (RLNs) were also observed. The most common variation was presence of PL, 32.61% (36% of males and 20% of females). The most common origin of the PL was both the isthmus (40%) and left lobe (40%). Levator glandulae thyroideae were commonly attached to the hyoid bone (72.7%). Statistically significant differences (<0.0001) were found in the mean length of LGT between males and females. Thickness of the PL was more in females than males and this difference was significant (< 0.015). The majority of the isthmi were found located on tracheal rings 1 and 2 (32.6%). The RLNs were mostly medial to the thyroid gland; LRLN (93.5%) and RRLN (91.3%). There was a high incidence of RLNs traversing the larynx posterior to the cricothyroid joint, 89.1% of LRLN and 93.5% of the RRLN. Knowledge of these variations, their measurements and the relationship of the thyroid gland to the RLNs may be of help to surgeons to perform safe and effective thyroid surgeries with reduced complications.
Emergence of clinical vanA-type vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolates in National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala, Kano, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulrahim U. , Oche D. A. , Kachallah M. , Adeshina G. O. , Olayinka B. O.
Published: August 2023

Background: The increasing prevalence of multi drug resistance (MDR) in strains of Staphylococcus aureus is a major challenge in the selection of an appropriate therapeutic agents, especially in persistent orthopaedic infections. This study investigated the patterns of antimicrobial resistance and identified the genetic determinants of resistance in S. aureus isolates from orthopaedic patients.

Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of hospitalized patients at National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala (NOHD), Kano, Nigeria from whom urine samples, and nasal and wound swabs were collected for isolation of S. aureus. Samples were cultured on standard media and S. aureus isolated and identified using both conventional biochemical tests and a standard rapid diagnostic kit. The antibiotic susceptibility was determined to a panel of 15 antibiotics using the modified Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Vancomycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of each isolate was determined using vancomycin Epsilon-test strip. mecA and vanA were detected by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay.

Results: From the total of 134 samples, S. aureus was isolated from 36 (26.8%); 10 (7.4%) from urine, 13 (9.7%) from nasal swab, and 13 (9.7%) from wound swab. Thirty-four (94.4%) isolates were phenotypically methicillin (cefoxitin) resistant (MRSA), while 2 (5.6%) isolates were methicillin sensitive (MSSA). Phenotypic resistance rate of the S. aureus isolates was highest to gentamicin (94.4%), followed by penicillin (88.8%), cephalosporins and fluoroquinolones (87.4%), while rate was lowest to vancomycin (11.1%, 4/36). Seventeen (47.2%) were MDR, 16 (44.4%) were extensively drug resistant (XDR), and 2 (5.6%) were pan-drug resistant (PDR) S. aureus isolates. The mecA gene was detected in 4 (11.8%) of the 34 phenotypic MRSA isolates and vanA genes in 2 (50.0%) of the 4 phenotypic VRSA isolates.

Conclusion: The detection of vanA and mecA in clinical S. aureus isolates in this study is an indication that clinical VRSA has emerged in MRSA population in Nigeria. This emergence can pose a major threat to primary care-givers and a public health challenge among the daily inhabitants of National Orthopaedic Hospital Dala (NOHD), Kano and the community at large.
Prevalence and antifungal susceptibility pattern of oral candidiasis among HIV-infected patients in a Mission Hospital, southeast Nigeria
Authors: Ekwealor C. C. , Nweke C. J. , Anaukwu C. G. , Anakwenze V. N. , Ogbukagu C. M. , Mba A. N.
Published: August 2023

Background: Oral candidiasis is an infection that follows colonization of oral cavity by Candida species mostly Candida albicans. About 90% of HIV-infected persons develop this disease during the course of HIV infection and could serve as early sign of HIV-related immunodeficiency. Treatment involves the use of antifungal drugs. The objectives of this study are to determine the prevalence of oral candidiasis and the susceptibility of isolated Candida species to available antifungal agents among selected HIV-infected patients in a mission hospital, southeast Nigeria.

Methodology: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 150 consecutively selected HIV-infected patients attending the Heart-to-Heart clinic of Iyi-Enu mission hospital Ogidi, Anambra State, Nigeria, between December 2022 and February 2023. Demographic information of each participant was obtained using structured questionnaire. Five milliliters of whole blood were drawn from the antecubital vein of each participant for CD4+ estimation. Mouth specimens were collected using two sterile cotton swabs for microscopy and culture on Sabouraud Dextrose Agar, and Candida species were identified after subculture on CHROMAgar. Antifungal susceptibility testing was performed by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method using fluconazole, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, and nystatin disks, and results interpreted according to the guidelines of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute.

Results: A total of 98 (65.3%) HIV-infected participants were positive for oral candidiasis, with 4 species of Candida isolated; Candida albicans (62.2%), Candida glabrata (18.4%), Candida tropicalis (12.2%) and Candida krusei (7.1%). Fifty-nine (60.2%) of the 98 participants had CD4+ cell count ˂ 200, 33 (33.7%) had counts in the range of 200-399, and 6 (6.1%) had counts in the range of 400-499 cells/μL (p=0.001). The prevalence of candi- diasis was not significantly different between the female (67.0%, 65/97) and male (62.3%, 33/53) participants (p=0.6598), but the prevalence was significantly higher (p<0.05) in participants age group 21-30 years (80.7%, 42/52), divorced (100%, 1/1) and married (75%, 45/60), those with primary school level education (73.7%, 42/57), civil servants (85.7%, 18/21), and those who performed mouth hygiene once daily (71.9%, 69/96). Nystatin (77.6%, 76/98) showed the highest while fluconazole and ketoconazole (68.4%, 62/98) showed the lowest in vitro antifungal activity

Conclusion: Oral candidiasis is prevalent among HIV-infected patients in the study population, with evidence of in vitro resistance of the Candida isolates to available antifungal drugs. Proper diagnosis, susceptibility testing and treatment of infection will be helpful in managing oral candidiasis infection among HIV infected patients.
Aggressive Behaviour in Nigerian University: Examining the Role of Sleep Quality and Examination Anxiety
Authors: Aroyewun Bushura A , Nwokedi Blessing C
Published: August 2023

Recently, aggressive behaviour has taken another dimension from being perpetrated only in secondary schools but tertiary institutions. This disturbing trend has generated immense research concern among concerned stakeholders in an emerging country like Nigeria. This is because this menace can affect students' psychics and, simultaneously, the smooth running of tertiary institutions. The study investigated the roles of insomnia and examination anxiety on aggressive behaviour among undergraduates. The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design with four hundred eighty-five (485) undergraduates purposively selected as participants. The Aggressive Behaviour Scale (ABS), Sleep Quality Scale (SQS), and Test Anxiety Scale (TAS) were used to gather data for the study. The results revealed that 35% of the respondents significantly reported low-level aggression, while 65% reported high aggression. There was a significant positive relationship between insomnia (r=.242, p<0.01) and aggressive behaviour. Also, examination anxiety (r=.26, p<0.01) had a significant positive association with aggressive behaviour. There was a significant joint influence of insomnia and examination anxiety on aggressive behaviour[F(2,483) = 42.96, R2 = .151; p <.01]. Further results show that insomnia (β=.29; t=6.88, p<.05) and examination anxiety (β=.31; t= 7.26, p<.01) were significant predictors of aggressive behaviour among undergraduate sampled. While demographic variables- age, sex, and ethnicity have no significant individual and joint prediction of aggressive behaviour. Therefore, the study recommended educating students on the impact of insomnia and examination anxiety on themselves and others while taking steps to mitigate its effect is essential to prevent aggressive behaviour in the university.
Enhancing quality of teaching and learning sciences through multimedia in selected secondary schools in Rwanda
Authors: Ntawiha Philothere , Nasiforo Beth M , Buhigiro Leonard J , Barayagwiza Pierre
Published: August 2023

The main purpose of this article is to highlight the role of multimedia in improving the quality of teaching and learning sciences in selected secondary schools in Rwanda. Specifically, it explores importance of using multimedia in teaching and learning sciences, extent to which science teachers use multimedia, impact of multimedia on students’ performance, and challenges encountered in using multimedia. The Cognitive Constructivist Theory of Multimedia (CCTM) guided this paper and it adopted the Static-Group Pretest-Posttest Research design whereby two existing classrooms were used: one as treatment group and another one as control group. 40 teachers randomly selected were involved in this research and data were gathered through document review guide, questionnaire as well as a test. The analysis of qualitative data was done thematically and percentages, means, standard deviation and t-test were used for quantitative data. Findings were presented in tables and verbatim. The paper noted that multimedia is poorly provided and teachers rarely use them in teaching. It further noted that multimedia has a significant impact on students’ performance. The paper recommended to provide more multimedia and use them for effective teaching and learning of sciences.
Adsorption of methylene blue dye onto modified activated carbon produced from groundnut shells
Authors: Abubakar Umar Isah
Published: August 2023

In this research work, groundnut shells agricultural byproducts were utilized for the production of modified groundnut shell based activated carbon (MGSAC) through the use of phosphoric acid and ethylene-diamine tetraacetic acid disodium salt (Na2EDTA) as an activating agent and a modifier, respectively. A three factor, two-level full factorial design (FFD) was employed for the exploratory design of experiments (DoE). The independent process variables are temperature, activation time, and activating agent concentration for the production of MGSAC in a muffle furnace. The product yield and methylene blue (MB) dye adsorption were considered as the performance indicators for the process. Regression analysis was conducted to examine the influence of process variables on the responses of the process parameters. From the analysis, it was found that the activation temperature has the most significant effects on the MGSAC product yield and the activation time for the adsorption of MB dye. The results obtained showed that the best operating conditions for production of MGSAC were carbonization temperature of 450°C, activation time of 30 min and activating agent concentration of (35 mmol Na2EDTA; 50% H3PO4) which resulted in the product yield of 55.5% MGSAC, and 99.6% MB dye adsorption. It was also observed that experimental values obtained were in good agreement with the values predicted by the model. Hence, the two-level FFD DoE technique demonstrated worthwhile features in disclosing the dominant factors that affect the production of modified groundnut shell based activated carbon. The products appear to be promising adsorbents for the adsorption of cationic MB dye from wastewaters.
Investigation of endophytic fungi in Moringa oleifera Lam. and determination of the phytochemical and proximate contents of its leaves and seeds
Authors: Ebabhi Abosede , Samuel Temitope , Adekunle Adedotun
Published: August 2023

Moringa oleifera Lam. is embedded with huge nutritional values hence, it is being utilized in folklore medicine for various therapeutic and pharmacological applications. This study was conducted to identify the endophytic fungi associated with commercial dried and fresh leaves and seeds of Moringa oleifera. The phytochemical and proximate contents of the ethylacetate extracts of the samples were also determined. Surface sterilization procedures were carried out to isolate fungi while identification was by standard identification manuals. The phytochemical content analysis was by standard protocols while the proximate content analysis was done using AOAC protocols. Endophytic fungi isolated are from genus; Aspergillus, Rhizopus, Fusarium, Rhizoctonia, Saccharomyces, Xylaria, Mucor, Nigrospora, Trichoderma, Alternaria, Penicillium and Macrophomina. From the qualitative analysis, flavonoid, tannin, steroid, alkaloid, terpenoids and cardiac glycoside were observed in all samples while saponin and phlobatannins were not detected in any sample. Reducing power was only observed in the fresh leaves and seeds samples. In quantitative analysis, fresh leaves showed the highest quantity of flavonoids (55.86±0.36 mg/g) while the fresh seed had highest quantity of cardiac glucosides, tannin and terpenoids. The dried leaves showed highest quantity of steroid and alkaloids. In the proximate analysis, the dried leaves had higher carbohydrate and crude fibre of 39.06±0.27 % and 14.32±0.01 % respectively. Moisture content was highest in the fresh leaves sample (20.26±0.06 %). Dried branded seed had the highest ash, crude lipid and crude protein contents. This study has shown that the leaves and seeds of M. oleifera are domains of diversity of endophytic fungi.
Snake venom detoxification potential of selected Nigerian medicinal plants: a review
Authors: Hassan Lawal, G. , Salihu Mustapha , Yusuf Amina J. , Abubakar Lawal
Published: August 2023

Snake envenomation is one of the neglected public health problems with high morbidity and mortality rate across the globe. Snakebite has led to several major health complications such as numbness and flaccid paralysis, damage to local tissue which eventually results in temporary and/or permanent physical impairment. In Nigeria however, lack of access to emergency treatment for snake envenomation has in no small measure contributed to the high rate of snake incidence. Though, a lot of drawbacks and limitations associated with the use of standard antisnake venom (ASV) include storage, side effects, expire in short time coupled with short supply. These factors made snake venom detoxification with ASV unaffordable to victims especially to people living in rural areas who are at high risk of snakebites. Therefore, the use of medicinal plants remains the only alternative for snake venom detoxification (SVD) in Nigeria especially in rural areas. This mini review reported the detoxification potentials of different medicinal plants (parts: leaves, stem bark, root, seed) of creeping foxglove (Asystasia gangetica L.), Resurrection plant (Bryophullum pinnatum Lam), Hammattan lily (Crinum jagus) wild custard apple (Annona sengalensis), plantain (Musa paradiasia) and finger root (Uvaria chamate), used to treat snakebite in Nigeria. Majority of these medicinal plants used by herbalists were validated by recent scientific works conducted on snake venom detoxification potentials. Bioactive antivenin compounds such as aristolochic acid, quercetin, kaempferol, resveratrol isolated from common Nigerian medicinal plants show very promising detoxification potential against snakebites. The authors of this review paper suggest that, more ethnomedicinal survey should be done to explore more plants with SVD potential for the development of effective medications.
Evaluation of heavy metals in soil from automobile mechanic Village Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria
Authors: Durumin-Iya Naseer Inuwa , Aliyu Mamudu , Sulaiman Mustapha
Published: August 2023

Soil contamination by heavy metals is a worldwide environmental problem. Some heavy metals pollutants are released from the activities in the auto-mechanic workshops and have various effects on human health as well as the environment. It is important to determine the presence and concentration level of the heavy metals in the soil. This research was aimed to determine the level of some selected heavy metals and physicochemical parameters of the soil sample. The soil samples were digested with nitric and hydrochloric acid and heavy metals were analyzed from digested samples using atomic absorption spectrometer (AAS). Results of the atomic absorption spectrophotometric (AAS) analysis of soil samples revealed that sample is contaminated with Ni, Zn, Mn, Fe and Cu with concentrations level (mg/kg) range between (0.75 - 5.55), (0.30 - 0.40), (1.00 -1.42) (0.80 - 1.30) and (0.05 - 0.60), respectively. Other metals such as As, Cd, Cr also contaminated the soil with concentrations (mg/kg) ranged between (0.12-0.76), (0.13-01.13) and (0.11-1.30), respectively. The results were compared with the standard set by National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA). The research concluded that the anthropogenic activities at auto-mobile workshops contaminate soil with heavy metals which may have a direct or indirect effect on human. Further studies should be conducted to ascertain the effects of those metals on human, plants, groundwater, and environment.
Investigation of the cause of failure of building structures in Damaturu, Northeastern Nigeria, using electrical resistivity method
Authors: Agada Livinus Emeka , Busari Kehinde Abdulsemiu
Published: August 2023

In this study, building failures were investigated in Damaturu metropolis, using Electrical resistivity method which involves, both Vertical Electrical Sounding (VES) and Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT). The study reveal that the area is composed of five geologic layers, which are the topsoil, clay, sand, sandy-clay, and sand. The topsoil thickness ranged from 0.7 to 1.9 m and has resistivity values which ranged from 127.6 to 171.5 Ωm. The second layer which is a clay formation has a thickness which ranged from 6.9 to 12.6 m. The topsoil is thin in most parts of the study area and it is mostly excavated during the building process for foundation laying and thereby leading to a situation where the foundation of the buildings are footed on the second layer which is a clay formation. The study reveal that the foundation of most buildings in the study area are underlain by clay. Clay soils often swell during rainy season and shrink during the dry season. Considering the appreciable thickness of clay in the study area, the swelling and shrinking behavior of clay is responsible for the failure and collapse of buildings in the study area. The resultant swelling and shrinkage of the clay under the foundation, subjects the buildings to shear stress which culminate in cracking of walls and deformation of the buildings. The study revealed that the materials underlying the building foundations in the study area are incompetent and they deserved to be compensated during building construction by using appropriate foundation types or by engineering reinforcement, using concretes to enhance the load bearing capacity of proposed building sites in the study area.
Phytochemical and antibacterial activities of Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea stem bark and leaves
Authors: Sale A.I. , Namadina M. M. , Abubakar F.B. , Sani M.H. , Zakari S.A. , Suleiman J.
Published: August 2023

Increasing resistance developed by many bacterial species has been reported to commonly prescribed antibiotics for bacterial infections. Therefore, the need to search for natural products for remedy of this problem cannot be overemphasized. The aim of the study was to evaluate the phytochemical and antibacterial activities of Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea ‘stem barks and leaves’ extracts against some human pathogenic bacteria. The methanol and aqueous extracts of Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea stem barks and leaves were carried out using cold maceration extraction method. Phytochemical screening and acute toxicity studies were carried out using standard methods. Agar well diffusion and agar dilution methods were employed to determine the zone of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, steroid, carbohydrates and triterpenes in both aqueous and methanolic extracts. All the extracts showed broad spectrum of activity at 500 mg/ml but the methanol extract had larger zones of inhibition and lower M.I.C and M.B.C values ranging from 15.125 mg/ml and 31.25 mg/ml against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. The LD50 of Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea stem barks and leaves were found to be greater than 5000 mg /kg and could be considered safe for consumption. This study has justified the traditional use of Vitellaria paradoxa and Sclerocarya birrea stem barks and leaves extracts in the treatment of infections caused by bacteria. Further investigations should be carried out to isolate pure compounds and determine the mechanisms of action of the plant.
Rethinking Cultural and Spiritual Values in Biodiversity Conservation among the Konso People of South-Western Ethiopia
Authors: Workneh Tebaber Chanie
Published: August 2023

The concept of biodiversity has a strong link with nature and culture. This study aimed to investigate how the Konso people of southwestern Ethiopia use cultural and spiritual values to conserve biodiversity. The study took place between January to April 2019 and March to July of 2021. Data were gathered using: focus group discussions (9 FGDs), in-depth interviews (with 26 key informants) and observation. A thematic analysis method was employed for analyzing the data. According to the findings of the study, the people of Konso have traditions of using dinna (holy woodlands) as locations for cultural rituals to relate with nature. The dinna’s survival is dependent on the clan’s leader (poqqola) and the village’s chiefs (shorogotta). Cutting of dinna is strictly forbidden because it is believed to result in punishment by the karroytta (deity of dead ancestors). In the Konso culture, cutting the whole shelkata (Moringa stenopetala) tree at once is considered as taboo since it is believed that it brought famine to the society. The investigations also found out that modernization and religious organizations have deterred contemporary cultural and spiritual values of biodiversity conservation methods. As a result, collaboration among researchers and policymakers is a critical suggestion for sustaining and integrating traditional forest management techniques with modern forest conservation measures.