bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Home office e a qualidade de vida no em uma indústria e distribuidora de petróleo
Authors: Sousa Luana Almeida , Lobo Ezequiel Alves , Lima Brenno Buarque de
Published: May 2024

No contexto da pandemia de COVID-19, o trabalho remoto, também conhecido como home office, tornou-se uma medida crucial para inúmeras organizações, incluindo indústrias e distribuidoras de petróleo. Este artigo busca analisar os impactos desse modelo de trabalho na qualidade de vida dos funcionários de uma indústria e distribuidora de petróleo. Utilizando uma abordagem qualitativa, foram realizadas entrevistas com os colaboradores da empresa. Os resultados revelaram que a percepção inicial do home office foi positiva para todos, mas as preferências variaram de acordo com o clima organizacional. Funcionários de setores com ambientes tóxicos preferiram o home office, enquanto aqueles com equipes harmoniosas optaram pelo presencial. A análise também destacou mudanças na rotina e condições de trabalho durante a pandemia, como a redução do tempo de deslocamento e dificuldades de adaptação ao ambiente domiciliar. Essas descobertas ressaltam a importância de considerar o contexto específico de cada organização ao implementar modelos de trabalho flexíveis.
FORMAÇÃO EM PSICOLOGIA E VIOLÊNCIAS CISHETERONORMATIVAS
Authors: Cunha Ailma , Silva Andreza Maira , Silva Emilly Cristina , Alves Maria Clara Silva , Silva Priscila Garcia
Published: May 2024

Neste artigo buscamos pensar a formação em Psicologia e o papel desta profissão em contextos de vulnerabilidade, opressão das sexualidades nas diversas faces da violência contra mulheres, LGBTQIAP+ e pessoas negras, traçando uma breve linha histórica sobre a violência de gênero, racismo/branquitude e LGBTQIAP+fobias. A partir da reflexão acerca dos diversos mecanismos de poder e dominação que subalternizam pessoas negras, mulheres, LGBTQIAP+ e indígenas, objetiva-se encontrar e produzir linhas de fuga em contextos acadêmicos tão cheios de violências. Este é um desafio sobre o qual as Psicologias Brasileiras precisam se debruçar rompendo com a contínua importação de saberes eurocentrados e cisheteronormativos, promovendo uma formação ética, estética, política e plural.
Palavras-chave: Corpos. Formação em Psicologia. Sexualidade. Violências Cisheteronormativas.
Research and development of planting techniques with low water resources in desert and semi-desert areas
Authors: Da Silva Santiago Wallace
Published: May 2024

This research addresses the problem of the worldwide decrease in water resources due to climate change and desertification. The main objective is to develop a cultivation method that uses a biogel to optimize water absorption by plants and reduce evaporation in desert areas. A mixed methodology was employed, combining qualitative and quantitative elements. Black bean seeds (Phaseolus vulgaris) were sown in bags with substrate prepared with the biogel, administering 20 ml of water every 3 days. Over 37 days, observations were made of plant development, substrate moisture, and the presence of pests or diseases. The results showed efficient water absorption by the plants and a substrate that remained moist, without the presence of pests or diseases. However, additional laboratory analyses are required to determine the exact cause of plant death before 45 days. It is concluded that the biogel cultivation method has potential for efficient water use in desert areas, but greater investment in equipment and a multidisciplinary team is needed to obtain conclusive results.
15th International scientific conference "Linguistic categories and units: the syntagmatic aspect"
Authors: Abramova E. A. , Kovalchuk E. V. , Kuznetsova E. A. , Pimenova M. V. , Rykin E. Yu. , Sokolova O. I.
Published: May 2024

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New ways to organize the educational space of a lesson: digital local history storytelling
Authors: Isaeva N. A. , Ovchinnikova A. V. , Timashova A. S.
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the burning issue of transforming teaching methods and modes in the context of the main trends in philological education based on the use of digital tools. The article aims to show how the modern educational space of a lesson is organised employing digital storytelling. This technique was used as a basis for developing an innovative philological project foregrounding A. S. Pushkin’s biographical information, the content and language of his works on the eve of the great poet’s jubilee. The major focus is on Pushkin’s name in the realities of Kaluga and Kaluga Oblast. Research methods include analysis of the main teaching modes and technologies in problem statement in conjunction with modelling a lesson based on project work, systematisation, and generalisation. As the main result, we propose a methodological description of the Abducted Bride project, including its main stages. They are as follows: constructing the plot of the story; designing assignments during the quest; determining the format of interaction between schoolchildren and the teacher and the learning environment; selecting multimedia and digital resources to visualise the story. Due to the extensive use of different types of information (visual, auditory, practical), interactivity, an interesting plot, and familiar characters, the developed project enabled us to increase the school students’ motivation for learning the Russian language, literature, history, information technology. Moreover, it also aroused interest in studying their birthplace, made the schoolchildren pay attention to objects in urban space. Through such landmarks, the school students once again turned to the great Russian poet’s personality and work. Thus, digital local history storytelling is a new way of organising the educational space of a lesson. This technique meets the modern requirements for the formation of students’ project thinking and project competencies.
Enhancing understanding of A. S. Pushkin’s lyrics during testing and teaching activities using educational hypertext
Authors: Mironova K. V.
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the current issue of methodological support for a Russian language lesson designed in line with the linguoconceptocentric approach. The research aims to justify the feasibility and the way of employing the hypertext journey method in the language education of secondary school students. Understanding hypertext as a non-linear text with hyperlinks, the author indicates its didactic purpose, i. e. to create conditions for students to receive additional information, audiovisual materials that contribute to the understanding of the linguistic concept(s) of the source text. Based on the analysis of scientific, methodological, and philological experience, texts of different genres, students’ creative works in conjunction with empirical research, a hypertext journey model was developed. It is as follows: a linguistic concept – the main (source) text – reference materials characterising the semantic fields of the word-concept (such as comments, dictionary entries) – aphorisms, proverbs – conceptually (thematically, ideologically, axiologically) related texts – works of audiovisual arts – own text (a conceptocentric essay). The paper describes didactic material, i. e. hypertext. It is comprised of fragments of literary (prose and poetic) and non-fiction texts united ideologically, axiologically, and thematically (conceptually). Such texts are characterised by linguistic importance and philosophicality which are subjected to interpretive, philological, and conceptual analysis. Attention is given to the technique of hypertext composition. The research determines the stages in following the hypertext journey method in the classroom: from presenting a concept to writing a conceptocentric essay. Testing carried out on the example of the hypertext journey ‘Art’ shows that this method significantly enhances schoolchildren’s semantic basis. Moreover, it helps them structure their art knowledge system, provides material for students’ own creative works, teaches them to use what they read as an argument in an argumentative text, and promotes speech development. As a result, this method enriches schoolchildren’s conceptual sphere.
The own and the alien in V. P. Astafyev’s "Notches" ("Zatesi") (to the 100th anniversary of the birth)
Authors: Gejmbukh E. Yu.
Published: May 2024

The article explores the semantic fields own and alien in V. P. Astafyev s "Notches". Since it took over forty years to write the book (it includes memories of a more or less distant past), and time as such often becomes the object of the author s attention, the own and alien in the article are directly related to the nature of the depicted time. Within the framework of linguo-stylistic text analysis, componential analysis, structural fragmentary description, and comparative stylistic analysis are used. The methods help to demonstrate the complexity of the studied semantic fields, the heterogeneity of their constituent theme lines, changes in the connotative meanings of the same elements depending on the context and the time of writing. Studying prose miniatures by V. P. Astafyev enables one to conclude that the own is the harmonious beginning of the world (in nature, in society, in the human soul), of which less and less is left. Conversely, the alien, the terrible reality of existence, is chaos, when a person loses the serene light of their soul.
Linguistic hermeneutics of the image of Margarita in M. A. Bulgakov’s novel "The Master and Margarita"
Authors: Pavlov S. G.
Published: May 2024

The article presents an axiologically oriented linguistic hermeneutic interpretation of Margarita s image from M. A. Bulgakov s novel "The Master and Margarita". The relevance of the article is due to both the ethical and scientific vulnerability of the unconditionally positive interpretation of the image that dominates school textbooks. The study aims to justify the disputability of this opinion and offer the author s own point of view. The research method was linguistic hermeneutics of a literary text. This methodology prioritises linguistic facts and, above all, lexical semantics. Based on the material of the complex image of Bulgakov s novel, the research substantiates the effectiveness of linguistic hermeneutics of a literary text as this method complements and corrects the results of literary text analysis. Meticulous attention is paid to the heroine s love. A textual contradiction was discovered between the explicit and implicit information concerning Margarita s love, which casts doubt on the interpretative version of school textbooks that idealise her love. The article proposes a linguistic justification for the image of Margarita as a demonic nature bearer, who was inherently predisposed to cooperate with Satan and, in a reckless pursuit of her beloved, became a servant of darkness. The main conclusions of the article can be summarised as follows: 1) Margarita s image should not be interpreted as unconditionally positive; 2) Margarita s personality does not correspond to the "psychological portrait" of a school-leaver; 3) Margarita s love is a means of rehabilitating her contact with unclean forces; 4) in the light of the value priorities of Russian culture, Margarita s love has devaluing characteristics.
Hypertext journey as a method for working on secondary school students’ conceptual sphere and speech in Russian language lessons
Authors: Bogdanova E. S.
Published: May 2024

The article discusses the current issue of methodological support for a Russian language lesson designed in line with the linguoconceptocentric approach. The research aims to justify the feasibility and the way of employing the hypertext journey method in the language education of secondary school students. Understanding hypertext as a non-linear text with hyperlinks, the author indicates its didactic purpose, i. e. to create conditions for students to receive additional information, audiovisual materials that contribute to the understanding of the linguistic concept(s) of the source text. Based on the analysis of scientific, methodological, and philological experience, texts of different genres, students’ creative works in conjunction with empirical research, a hypertext journey model was developed. It is as follows: a linguistic concept – the main (source) text – reference materials characterising the semantic fields of the word-concept (such as comments, dictionary entries) – aphorisms, proverbs – conceptually (thematically, ideologically, axiologically) related texts – works of audiovisual arts – own text (a conceptocentric essay). The paper describes didactic material, i. e. hypertext. It is comprised of fragments of literary (prose and poetic) and non-fiction texts united ideologically, axiologically, and thematically (conceptually). Such texts are characterised by linguistic importance and philosophicality which are subjected to interpretive, philological, and conceptual analysis. Attention is given to the technique of hypertext composition. The research determines the stages in following the hypertext journey method in the classroom: from presenting a concept to writing a conceptocentric essay. Testing carried out on the example of the hypertext journey ‘Art’ shows that this method significantly enhances schoolchildren’s semantic basis. Moreover, it helps them structure their art knowledge system, provides material for students’ own creative works, teaches them to use what they read as an argument in an argumentative text, and promotes speech development. As a result, this method enriches schoolchildren’s conceptual sphere.
Etymologies of the Moscow Oblast hydronym Osetr
Authors: Barandeev A. V.
Published: May 2024

The article presents three versions of the origin of the ancient Moscow Oblast hydronym Osetr based on the etymological method and the phonetic and word-formation structure analysis of the toponym. The use of the hydronym in extant written texts of the Russian language and cartographic sources is analysed. The study critically examines the folk and Baltic etymologies of the hydronym. The specific features of the functioning of hydronyms with the -str-stem in Slavic and non-Slavic toponymy were revealed. The paper substantiates the reliability of the Slavic origin of the hydronym Osetr.
Antipsychotic-Induced QT Prolongation and Torsade de Pointes in Patients with Mental Disorders: A Review
Authors: Nasyrova R. F. , Kidyaeva A. V. , Petrova M. M. , Shnayder N. A.
Published: May 2024

INTRODUCTION. The high risk of life-threatening ventricular arrhythmias, particularly Torsade de Pointes (TdP), makes QT prolongation one of the most significant adverse drug reactions (ADRs) due to cardiotoxicity associated with antipsychotics (APs).

AIM. This study aimed to systematise information about AP effects on the QT interval duration and TdP risk in patients with mental disorders and to provide recommendations on preventive measures for practising psychiatrists and clinical pharmacologists.

DISCUSSION. The authors searched information in PubMed, eLIBRARY.RU, and Google Scholar. The analysis included full-text articles on the results of placebo-controlled studies, crossover studies, case–control studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and Cochrane reviews published from 1 September 2013 to 30 September 2023. The main mechanism of AP cardiotoxicity is the inhibition of voltage-gated ion channels (primarily potassium channels) in the cardiomyocyte membrane. Most first-generation APs are associated with dose-dependent QTc prolongation; thioridazine, chlorpromazine, and levomepromazine pose the highest risk of QTc prolongation and TdP. The results of this review do not support the hypothesis of a lower risk of QTc prolongation with next-generation APs than with first-generation APs. The correlation between serum AP levels and QTc prolongation severity is less characteristic of secondand third-generation APs. However, all second-generation APs lengthen the QTc interval and increase the risk of TdP, with clozapine and olanzapine posing the highest risk. Depending on the risk of QTc prolongation, APs can be divided into 3 groups: low-risk products (aripiprazole, lurasidone, cariprazine, paliperidone, and zuclopentixol), moderate-risk products (quetiapine, perphenazine, fluphenazine, olanzapine, clothiapine, and haloperidol), and high-risk products (chlorpromazine, promazine, clozapine, levomepromazine, and ziprasidone). The relationship between AP-induced QTс prolongation and TdP is ambiguous. If an AP exerts a homogeneous effect on cardiomyocytes, the risk of TdP remains low despite significant QTс prolongation.

CONCLUSIONS. The summarised data on AP effects on QT interval duration and TdP risk in patients with mental disorders as well as the proposed recommendations for reducing TdP risk may be in demand by psychiatrists and clinical pharmacologists selecting AP and may help minimise the likelihood of potentially fatal AP-induced arrhythmogenic cardiac ADRs.
Duck, Death and the Tulip in the triangle of fantasy, reality, and death in preschool education
Authors:   Faculty of Education, Afyon Kocatepe University, Afyonkarahisar, Turkey, Akdağ Erhan
Published: May 2024

One of the most important concepts that children in preschool and primary school try to perceive and understand is “death”. Making the phenomenon of death comprehensible to a child is a very difficult and laborious process. The difficulty of defining death, which is an abstract concept, for a child, combined with the pedagogical fear (negative perception that this can cause in a child) and the inability to develop an appropriate discourse (destructive style), leads the adult and parents to an even greater impasse. There are different opinions, especially on whether the phenomenon of death can be included in children’s books and how and in what way this phenomenon should be expressed if it is to be included. One of the publications that successfully answer the question of how and in what way death should be explained to children is the children’s book Duck, Death and the Tulip by Wolf Erlbruch. In this work, the abstract phenomenon of death is made tangible for children with the help of fantastic elements, and death is characterized. Duck, Death and the Tulip, in which values such as “friendship”, “love” and “respect” between a duck and death are treated with pedagogical care, are of great importance for shaping and developing the concept of death in the minds of child readers. This study sought to examine how the concept of death is treated in Wolf Erlbruch’s children’s book Duck, Death and the Tulip based on embodiment, child psychology, and pedagogy.
Historical cultures provide insights into the taxonomy of Stictis sensu lato
Authors: Johnston P.R. , Park D.
Published: May 2024

Species morphologically typical of the genus Stictis are phylogenetically diverse, spread throughout Stictidaceae. Phylogenetic studies based on DNA sequences have revealed the polyphyletic nature of the morphologically defined genus, the type species Stictis radiata forming
a clade phylogenetically distinct from all other sequenced species that had been placed in the genus. Some of the phylogenetic clades containing Stictis sensu lato species can be distinguished on the basis of their asexual morphs. Here we accept as the genus Ebollia a monophyletic
clade that forms two monophyletic subclades, both of which contain species that form both a stictis-like sexual morph and an Ebollia asexual morph. One of these clades contains the type species of Fitzroyomyces, F. cyperacearum, here treated as a synonym of Ebollia carnea (=
Stictis carnea). Three unnamed species with a stictis-like sexual morph, fall into a clade with the type species of Eriospora (E. leucostoma) and Neofitzroyomyces (N. nerii), two species known only from their asexual morphs. Morphologically these stictis-like sexual morphs
differ from that previously reported for another Eriospora species, E. juncicola. The mode of conidiogenesis distinguishes Eriospora and Neofitzroyomyces from Ebollia. A group of species traditionally included in Stictis but that differ from S. radiata
in having dark ascomatal walls, are accepted here as Cyclostoma, using this name at the generic rather than subgeneric level. Two of these species are described as new, Cyclostoma macroarundinacea and C. oleariae. In addition, DNA sequences are provided for the genus Delpontia
for the first time.
Consumer awareness, perceptions and avoidance of ultra-processed foods: A study of UK adults in 2024
Authors: Robinson Eric , Cummings Jenna Rosemarie , Gough Thomas , Jones Andrew , Evans Rebecca
Published: May 2024

Background: Ultra-processed food (UPF) is currently not included in most countries’ dietary guidance. However, there may be growing public interest and consumer avoidance of UPF due to media reporting of studies on the negative health outcomes associated with UPFs. Methods: We surveyed 2,386 UK adults (M age = 45 years, 50% female) during March-April, 2024. Participants completed measures on awareness of the term UPF, whether UPF status of foods affects their dietary decision making, and confidence in identifying UPFs. Participants categorised a list of 10 foods (5 UPF and 5 non-UPFs) as UPF vs. not, before rating whether information about studies linking UPF to worse health impacts on their negative affect and acts as a deterrent to consuming UPFs.Results: Most participants (73%) were aware of the term UPF and 58% reported that their food choices are determined by whether they believe a food is ultra-processed or not. Participants with the highest income and education levels were most likely to report both being aware of, and, avoiding consuming UPFs. Most participants could not accurately categorise whether foods were UPF. Some sociodemographic groups (e.g., higher education levels) were more likely to accurately categorise UPFs, but were also more likely to incorrectly believe that non-UPFs were UPFs. Participants tended to report UPF-health risk information increases negative affect and acts as a deterrent to consuming UPFs.Conclusions: A large number of UK adults now report avoiding consuming UPFs and this is particularly pronounced among those with the highest education and income levels.
Harm reduction in severe and long-standing Anorexia Nervosa – part of the journey but not the destination. A narrative review with lived experience
Authors: Birch Edwin , Ayton Agnes , Downs James
Published: May 2024

This study is a review of the current evidence for harm reduction in the treatment of severe and long-standing Anorexia Nervosa, with a critique of the ethical defensibility of this approach alongside the inadequacies of pre-existing terms such as "severe and enduring Anorexia Nervosa".The study concludes that at present harm reduction lacks a robust evidence base and should not be considered the end point of treatment.Further research is required to identify new efficacious treatments and inform the role harm reduction may have for this subset of patients.
Genetic characterization of olive (Olea europaea L.) genotypes from Adana and Osmaniye provinces by microsatellite markers
Authors:   Olive Research Institute, Bornova-İzmir, Turkey., ULAS Mehmet , KACAR Yıldız ,   Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Çukurova, Adana, Turkey., SAKAR Ebru ,   Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Harran, Şanlıurfa, Turkey.
Published: May 2024

Studies on the determination and domestication of the motherland of olive have shown that there are important gene centres (Adana and Osmaniye) in the Eastern Mediterranean Basin. In the study, 41 olive genotypes collected from Adana and Osmaniye provinces. Twenty-three domestic, eight local and five foreign reference olive cultivars were obtained from the olive germplasm within the Çukurova and Harran Universities. A total of 77 fresh olive leaves were included in the SSR analysis. At the genetic level allele profiles and genetic affinity, levels were determined by nine SSR markers. The total allele number was 101, while the lowest allele number per locus was three (UDO9) and the highest allele number was 31 allele/locus (DCA9). The average allele is 11.22 per locus. The mean expected (he) and observed heterozygosity (Ho) ratios were 0.512 and 0.675 respectively. The high genetic similarity was evident between Eşek zeytini and Ayvalık yağlik (0.78) genotypes, while the most genetically divergent genotypes were Melkabazi and Mavi (0.06) and Melkabazi and Eğriburun (0.06).
Potentials, drivers and barriers to green economy transition: Implications for Africa
Authors:   Department of Forest Resources Management, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria., Chukwu V. E.
Published: May 2024

African countries depend majorly on natural resources for livelihood sustenance. Despite many untapped potentials in some sectors of Africa's economy, the continent is still faced with several social, economic and environmental problems. Green economy presents an appealing policy framework to help the continent overcome these challenges and transit to a more environmentally-friendly, low-carbon and resource-efficient economy. Achieving this socially-inclusive viable economy is limited by weak institutions and political will, human and institutional capacity gaps, a paucity of data for impact assessment, poor awareness of the benefits of green economy concepts and poor coordination among green economy actors. This review identifies the potentials, drivers and barriers to a green economy in Africa. Some countries recognised the role of the green economy in sustainable development. However, mainstreaming the right policy mix into national plans across the sectors of society remains a big challenge. This review thus recommends strengthening both public institutions and political will that will help to prioritise policy frameworks, mainstream private sector involvement, close capacity gaps, create sufficient public awareness and build sectoral synergy among green economy actors for an environmentally-sustainable, low-carbon and resource-efficient economy.
Evaluation of genetic variability and interrelationships among M3 and M4 maize inbred lines in Kenya
Authors:   Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya., Kariuki John Kimondo , Githiri Stephen Mwangi ,   Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya., Wesonga John Mwibanda ,   Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya., Mallu Tesfamichael Semere ,   Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Nairobi, Kenya.
Published: May 2024

The present study was conducted at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Juja to assess the agronomic performance of mutant maize lines of 39 filial generation 3 (M3) and filial generation 4 (M4) maize lines and a check variety among agro-morphological traits with their association with grain yield. Data on various agro-morphological characters were recorded using morphological descriptors for maize and analyzed using Genstat Release 14.1. Data was also subjected to XLSTAT 2014 and DARwin 6.0.12 software for principal and cluster analyses. Results obtained differed significantly in herbicide tolerance days for both M3 and M4 (p≤0.01). However, plant height, maturity days, flag leaf length and width, grains ear-1, ear length, ear diameter and grain yield plant-1 differed significantly in M3 and M4 lines (p≤0.05). Grain yield plant-1 showed a strong significant positive correlation with anthesis days, plant height, grains ear-1 and ear diameter and length but negatively correlated with days to pollen shedding, tasseling, maturity and tolerance in M3 while flag leaf width, harvestable and total ears plant-1 showed positive and significant correlation but negatively correlated with tolerance days in M4. Principal component analysis showed variations among mutated maize lines in M3 and M4 with first seven principal components (PC) indicating that the first six PCs explained 78.69% and first six PCs contributing 71.28% respectively of the total variation. Cluster analysis showed three clusters and seven sub-clusters indicating differences in morphological diversity among the M3 inbred lines and two clusters with cluster one of hybrid 513 and three sub-clusters in cluster two of hybrid 520. Plant height, flowering days and ear length were crucial phenological traits determining grain yield among herbicide tolerant lines showing significant variability that could be considered in hybridization and development of herbicide tolerant hybrid genotypes in future maize breeding programmes.
Morphology and anatomy of rhizome and root structures in seven Pteris L. species (Pteridaceae) from Southwestern Nigeria
Authors:   Natural History Museum, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria., Bamigboye Rachael A. , Oloyede Fatai A. ,   Department of Botany, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife, Nigeria., Holmlund Helen I. ,   Pepperdine University, California, USA.
Published: May 2024

Morphological and anatomical structures of seven Pteris species from various locations in Southwestern Nigeria were examined. This study aimed to affirm the affinities and relevance of rhizome and root structures within the genus Pteris. Mature healthy plants of each species were collected, and morphological observations of rhizomes and roots were documented for each species. The transverse sections of rhizomes were prepared by cutting at 10 µm thickness using Reichert Sliding Microtome while roots were embedded through standard procedures. The results showed that morphologically, rhizomes in P. acanthoneura, P. atrovirens, P. mildbraedii, P. togoensis and P. similis were erect to sub erect, but rhizomes were short creeping in P. ensiformis and P. vittata. The anatomy of the rhizomes showed a typical dictyostele pattern with variable number of leaf gaps, while roots of all the Pteris species were the diarch type with two xylem bundles alternating with two phloem bundles. The morphological and anatomical structures of the rhizomes and the roots provide useful specific distinctions of taxonomic importance for the genus Pteris and the family Pteridaceae.
Therapeutic potency of probiotics in the treatment of gastrointestinal parasites
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Ajanya B. U. , Attah F. ,   Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Mahmud M. E. ,   Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Owolabi B. I. ,   Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Adetoro R. O. ,   Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Adeniyi K. A. ,   Applied Entomology and Parasitology Unit, Department of Animal Biology,  Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria., Oyibo-Usman K. A. ,   Applied Entomology and Parasitology Unit, Department of Animal Biology,  Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Current World Health Organization estimates suggest that around 1.5 billion people worldwide and approximately a quarter of all people on earth, chiefly among the developing countries, are affected by intestinal parasites, despite the aggressive control and an alarming treatment over the years. Besides, the extensive use of the available chemotherapeutic agents, against the infection, has created widespread drug resistance problem. Probiotics, therapeutic non-pathogenic microorganisms have been recently identified as a novel alternative prophylactic and chemotherapeutic agents against several gastrointestinal parasites. They are mostly gram-positive bacteria, isolated from the human gut microflora or various dairy products such as curds, lassi and kulfi with characteristics non-pathogenic, resistant to low pH and acid. Their non-pathogenic symbiotic activities in the gut help in the restoration of gut bacteria microbiota by stimulating immune system, metabolism and anti-pathogenic effect, especially when administered in large quantity. In addition, several strains of probiotics have been identified to possess antiparasitic effects against some gastrointestinal parasites both in egg and larval stage of the parasites. This present review therefore elucidates the potential of probiotics in the treatment and management of gastrointestinal parasites. There is need for more clinical studies and especially molecular studies for better perception of the mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of probiotics on parasitic infections.
Investigation of the antibiotics susceptibility patterns and pathogenic potential of bacteria isolated from poultry wastes
Authors:   Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria., Uba B. O. , Okoye E. L. ,   Department of Applied Microbiology and Brewing. Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Anambra State, Nigeria., Etoniru I. S. ,   Department of Anatomy, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria., Anene D. K. ,   Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria., Ogbuagu S. ,   Department of Microbiology, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Uli, Anambra State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

The antibiotic resistant patterns and pathogenic potential of bacteria isolated from poultry wastes were investigated in this study. A total of 20 samples of poultry wastes were collected from different sites of poultry houses in Uli, Ihiala Local Government Areas, Anambra State, Nigeria using sterile polythene bags. The pathogens were isolated and identified using streaking plating technique, biochemical characterization and API Identification System. The disc diffusion method and plasmid curing were used to determine the antibiotic resistant patterns and resistant gene location. The pathogenicity study involves orally or intraperitonially inoculation of 0.5 mL of the different bacterial pathogens into three months’ immuno - competent albino mice for two weeks; and rabbit ileal loop assay for enterotoxin production in five healthy adult rabbit for 18 to 24 hrs. The isolated pathogens were Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Clostridium, Salmonella, Shigella, V. cholerae and V. parahaemolyticus. The antibiotics sensitivity test revealed that the bacterial pathogens were most susceptible to ciprofloxacin, rifampicin, levofloxacin and most resistant to ceporex, amoxil, ampiclox and norfloxacin with significance in the Gram negative antibiotics sensitivity testing (P < 0.05), but no significance in the Gram antibiotics sensitivity positive testing (P > 0.05). 12.5% of the strains lost their antibiotic resistance plasmids marker after sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) mediated curing. The pathogenicity testing revealed that the intestine had the highest significant microbial count (9 log CFU/g x 105) and the liver recorded the least significant count (7 log CFU/g x105) compare to the control (inoculated with water) that had no count. The enterotoxin testing revealed that Staphylococcus aureus recorded the highest enterotoxin production (0.45 mL/cm) while Pseudomonas aeruginosa recorded the least (0.16 mL/cm). Thus, the test isolates have shown reasonable pathogenic potentials and hence proper enlightenment and sensitization of the public health problems associated with these wastes should be encouraged.
Prevalence of malaria infection among persons seeking treatment from private drug retailers in North Central Nigeria
Authors:   Parasitology and Biomedical Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Otuu C. A. , Eke S. S. ,   Department of Animal Biology (Parasitology and Tropical Diseases Research Unit), Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria., Omalu I. C. J. ,   Department of Animal Biology (Parasitology and Tropical Diseases Research Unit), Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, Nigeria., Hassan S. C. ,   Department of Zoology, Nasarawa State University, Keffi, Nigeria., Udeh E. O. ,   Parasitology and Biomedical Research Unit, Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Urama A. C. ,   Model Primary Health Centre, Woji, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Malaria is a fatal insect-borne tropical disease that continues to pose public health challenges in Nigeria. This study was carried out to assess the prevalence of malaria infection among persons seeking treatment from private sector drug outlets and Proprietary and Patent Medicine Vendors (PVMs). Rapid diagnostic tests and microscopy were carried out to examine the blood samples collected from the study subjects. A total of 1,300 subjects of varying ages that came to seek for malaria treatment were randomly selected for the study after their free consent had been obtained. Finger prick and venous methods were used to collect blood for the rapid diagnostic test and microscopy. The results of this study revealed that of the total of 700 blood samples analyzed for Males, 402 (57.43%) were positive for microscopy and 396 (56.57%) were positive for RDT. While for females, the result showed that of the 600 blood samples screened, 304 (50.67%) were positive for microscopy and 288 (48.0%) were positive for RDT. In respect to age, for microscopy, the age group 15 to 24 years had the highest prevalence of 155 (86.11%) followed by 25 to 34 years with 150 (51.72%), while the least prevalence of 122 (42.36%) occurred within the 55 to 64 age group. For RDT, the age group 15 to 24 years had the highest prevalence of 161 (84.74%) followed by 25 to 34 years with 153 (54.64%), while least prevalence of 108 (38.30%) occurred within the 55 to 64 age group. Statistical analysis indicated that there is a significant difference in infection rate among the age group at p<0.05. The findings of this study further portray the need for confirmatory tests of suspected malaria cases before treatment.
Use of traditional medicines in treatment of malaria among pregnant women in two urban slums in Enugu State, Nigeria
Authors:   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Israel Chidinma Egbichi , Duru Amaka Chidozie ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Ingwu Justin Agorye ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Arinze Joyce Chinenye ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Chikeme Paulina Chigwara ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria., Kotoye Christianah Oluwatobi ,   Department of Nursing Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences and Technology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

Malaria in pregnancy can lead to malaria-related anaemia, a condition that when left untreated, can result in death, especially among vulnerable populations such as pregnant women. Malaria can lead to severe anaemia and maternal and foetal death. This study aimed at exploring the perception and use of traditional medicine in the treatment of malaria among pregnant women in Ngenevu and Udi siding communities. A descriptive cross-sectional survey method was adopted for the study. Study population was 93 pregnant women purposively selected from two urban slums of Ngenevu and Udi siding, Enugu state. Structured questionnaire with reliability coefficient of 0.75 was used for data collection. Health Research Ethics Committee of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital Enugu approved the study. Data collection was on the spot and was analysed with SPSS/IBM version 23. Inferential statistics was used to test the significance of income and educational level in determining the use of traditional medicine among pregnant women at p<0.05 level of significance. Majority (93.5%) of pregnant women in Udi siding and Ngenevu used traditional medicine to treat malaria. More than half (87.1%) perceived traditional medicine used in treating malaria as effective. Of the 32 women who reported to have experienced side effects, 81.3% had nausea and vomiting of which 57.7% and 42.3% are from Udi Siding and Ngenevu respectively. There was a significant relationship between income and level of education and use of traditional medicine in treatment of malaria in pregnancy (p<0.05). Pregnant women in the two urban slums utilized traditional medicine in treating malaria. Efforts should be intensified to discourage and reduce to the barest minimum the use of traditional medicines in treating malaria in pregnancy. This will help in stemming the tide of maternal and child mortality and morbidity in these urban slums.
Spironolactone-digoxin synergizes gynecomastia: A case report
Authors:   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103., Biradar S. M. , Kohima B. ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103., Purnagopinath K. ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103., Bentoor Sanjeev N. ,   Department of Medicine, Shri B M. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103., Patil L. S. ,   Department of Medicine, Shri B M. Patil Medical College Hospital and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103., Vijayakumari V. ,   Department of Clinical Pharmacy Practice, SSM College of Pharmacy and Research Centre, Vijaypur-586103.
Published: May 2024

Gynecomastia refers to a proliferation of breast tissue in the males that causes imbalances in estrogen and androgen levels, resulting in increased or unopposed estrogen action on breast tissue, where underlying aetiology might be physiological or pathological. Approximately 10 to 25% cases of gynecomastia are in associated with drugs. There are many drugs (Spironolactone, Furosemide, Digoxin etc.) capable to induce gynecomastia on individual basis, but practically it is not seen often. Simultaneously, when two or more similar drugs (capable to induce gynacomastia) are administered concomitantly, it is seen often for its synergistic side effect as a drug induced gynecomastia. In the present case study, a 65 years old male patient who had been taking Digoxin and Spironolactone for Ischemic Heart Disease (IHD) with Left Ventricular Failure (LVEF) in the past one year. On his regular follow up, it has been observed/noticed that the patient has developed a gynecomastia. Hence, it is presumed that the drug induced gynecomastia may be due to synergistic side effect of Spironolactone and Digoxin per se.
A spotlight the Zimbabwe National Health Policy (2016-2020)
Authors:   Bindura University of Science Education, Zimbabwe., Bakasa Takudzwa
Published: May 2024

This study examines the national health strategy employed by the Zimbabwean government for the period 2016-2020. The study is structured in a manner that it provides a conceptualisation of the issues under discussion then probes into the situation under which the strategy was adopted, the priority areas identified by the strategy in conjunction with the implementation strategy. The study also probes into the challenges that have constrained the implementation of the strategy thus far and highlights the recommendations under which Zimbabwe’s health system may achieve its objectives. From a snapshot, the context involves transformation from a highly centralised, segregatory and urban based health care systems to a more equitable health care system with presence in rural communities. The priority areas under discussion include, communicable and non-communicable diseases, disaster preparedness, prevention and risk mitigation. The paper is a desk-based review of the Zimbabwe National Health Strategy as well as other government documents, academic literature, information published on audio-visual, paper-based and online media platforms. The use of key words was fundamental in conducting the study, and online articles dating back to 2016 were reviewed. In addition, academic literature was mainly used to discuss the broader public health context in Zimbabwe, during the period under review. From evidence gathered the article is inclined toward the view that the Government of Zimbabwe has lost track in the implementation of the ZNHS, and unless drastic measures are taken, the targets set-forth within the strategy remain far from being realised.
Sociodemographic and risk factors of cervical cancer among female staff of Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria
Authors:   Pathology Department, Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria., Anochiwa Kingsley C. , Oyamienlen Christopher S. ,   Department of Public Health Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of  Technology, Owerri, Nigeria., Nwoke Eunice A. ,   Department of Public Health Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of  Technology, Owerri, Nigeria., Oparaocha Evangeline T. ,   Department of Public Health Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of  Technology, Owerri, Nigeria., Ejikem Mazi E. C. ,   Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria., Nwanya Emmanuel ,   Department of Public Health Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of  Technology, Owerri, Nigeria., Okoroafor Ikenna E. ,   Department of Public Health Technology, School of Health Technology, Federal University of  Technology, Owerri, Nigeria., Onyemereze Christian ,   Abia State University Teaching Hospital, Aba, Abia State, Nigeria.
Published: May 2024

This study examines the sociodemographic and risk factors for cervical cancer among female staff of Federal Medical Centre, Owerri, Imo State Nigeria. It is a descriptive cross-sectional survey which was conducted among 400 female staff using predesigned semi-structured questionnaires. The sampling technique adopted was systematic sampling technique. Data analyses were done using statistical package for social sciences version 23 software package. Chi square was used to determine the associations between age at marriage and cervical erosion. A total of 77(19.3%) respondents consume alcohol, 78(19.5%) have had sexually transmitted infection and 58(14.5%) had multiple sexual partners. Thirty-nine (7.5%) have had regular Pap test, while 293(73.2%) have never had Pap test. Cervical erosion was found among 114(38.3%) out of which 101(25.3%) occurred in women that were married on or before the age of 21 years. This study shows the association of cervical cancer among female staff of Federal Medical Centre, Owerri and their sociodemographic and other risk factors. Monogamy, late commencement of sexual activity, personal hygiene, use of barrier contraceptive methods, regular cervical screening and early detection efforts will help towards primary prevention.