bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer Risk and Mortality in Hospitalized Patients With Idiopathic Inflammatory Myopathies in Western Australia
Authors: Nossent Johannes C. , Keen Helen , Preen David , Inderjeeth Charles
Published: February 2024

Objective

To compare cancer incidence, type, and survival between patients with idiopathic inflammatory myopathies (IIMs) in Western Australia (WA) and the general population.

Methods

Administrative health data for hospitalized patients with incident IIM (n = 803, 56.5% female, median age 62.0 yrs), classified by a validated algorithm as polymyositis (PM; 36.2%), dermatomyositis (DM; 27.4%), inclusion body myositis (IBM; 17.1%), overlap myositis (OM; 10.7%), and other IIM (8.6%), were linked to WA cancer and death registries for the period of 1980 to 2014. Cancer incidence rates (CIRs) before and after IIM diagnosis as well as cancer mortality were compared with age-, sex-, and calendar year–matched controls (n = 3225, 54.9% female, median age 64 yrs) by rate ratios (RRs) and Kaplan-Meier survival estimates.

Results

The prediagnosis CIR was similar for patients with IIM and controls (6.57 vs 5.95; RR 1.11, 95% CI 0.88-1.39) and for patients evolving to DM (n = 220) or other IIM subtypes (6.59 vs 6.56; RR 1.01, 95% CI 0.38-3.69). During follow-up, CIR was higher for all DM (4.05, 95% CI 3.04-5.29), with increased CIR for lung cancer vs controls (1.05 vs 0.33; RR 3.18, 95% CI 1.71-5.47). Cancer post diagnosis shortened life span by 59 months for patients with IIM (103 vs 162 months,P< 0.01), but reduced survival rates were observed only in patients with DM and IBM.

Conclusion

Cancer risk was not increased prior to IIM, but CIR for lung cancer was increased following DM diagnosis. As cancer reduced survival only in patients with DM and IBM, these data support a strategy of limited cancer screening in IIM.
L’amnésie post-traumatique réflexe (suite) : concept de posture homéostatique autocontrainte
Authors: Gavino Raphaël
Published: February 2024

Aujourd’hui, selon l’Institut Analgésia 1 , première fondation française de recherche dédiée à l’innovation contre la douleur, un adulte sur cinq souffre de douleurs chroniques et deux patients sur trois ne sont pas soulagés par leur traitement. Pourtant, Sherrington offre une piste essentielle pour comprendre la douleur chronique dès 1917 en démystifiant le fait que les réactions réflexes ont pour but de rétablir l’homéostasie. D’après la loi d’innervation réciproque de Sherrington, « quand les agonistes se contractent, les antagonistes se relâchent ». Nous nous rendons alors compte que le seul moyen de rétablir le bon fonctionnement d’un couple de forces est d’inhiber par sa propre contraction l’agoniste pour inhiber à son tour l’antagoniste. Parmi les milliers de publications concernant le Trigger Point présentes sur PubMed, il semble qu’un axe n’ait pas été pris en compte, celui d’inclure le modèle de la tenségrité biologique. À travers cette approche, je propose d’envisager une autre façon de soigner la douleur chronique : produire artificiellement un réflexe de retrait sur le tendon du muscle agoniste responsable du réflexe d’inhibition autogénique pour reprogrammer le couple de forces. Ainsi, la ténotomie, l’antalgie, la neurostimulation, la neurotomie seraient évitées et des résultats définitifs sur la douleur chronique basée sur la loi du tout ou rien, seraient obtenus. Si ma théorie de l’amnésie post-traumatique réflexe s’avère exacte, elle relancerait une fonction organique en mode par défaut. De ce fait, elle permettrait une innovation à visée curative dans toute pathologie d’origine fonctionnelle et/ou organique.
Libertés dans la tourmente
Authors: Vire Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

De la rue au Parlement en passant par les commissariats ou les prétoires, les atteintes à la liberté d’informer se multiplient. Mais les journalistes et la société civile se mobilisent.
« Une demande démocratique s’est exprimée »
Authors: Malo Antoine , Hervieu-Léger Benoît
Published: February 2024

Juin 2023. Alors que s’engage le rachat du Journal du dimanche par le groupe Bolloré, le journaliste d’extrême droite Geoffroy Lejeune est annoncé à la tête de la rédaction. Débute alors une grève historique, au large retentissement. Antoine Malo, ancien du journal, revient sur cet épisode.
« L’information n’est pas un bien comme les autres »
Authors: Taillé-Polian Sophie , Hervieu-Léger Benoît , Aiquel Pablo
Published: February 2024

Vice-présidente du groupe écologiste-Nupes, Sophie Taillé-Polian est à l’origine d’une proposition de loi en faveur de l’indépendance des rédactions. Un premier pas, assure-t-elle, en attendant une nouvelle législation d’envergure.
Les fondements de « l’ordre international » post-guerre froide
Authors: Badalassi Nicolas , Badalassi Nicolas
Published: February 2024

Depuis que la Russie a renoué avec une politique extérieure agressive, une relecture des décisions internationales prises au tournant des décennies 1980 et 1990 est apparue nécessaire pour évaluer la pertinence de l’hypothèse selon laquelle l’architecture de sécurité post-guerre froide aurait été trop fragile pour ne pas être contestée. Dans cette optique, plusieurs questions méritent d’être soulevées : sur quels fondements repose l’ordre international né de la fin du conflit Est-Ouest ? Ces fondements ont-ils fait l’objet d’un véritable consensus ? Dans quelle mesure justifient-ils les contestations à leur encontre ? Il est possible d’apporter des éléments de réponse en inscrivant les soubassements de l’ordre post-guerre froide dans le temps long du second xx e  siècle et en revenant sur les tentatives faites dans les années 1990 pour adapter les institutions existantes au contexte nouveau.
Extension of Chaplygin's existence and uniqueness method for fractal-fractional nonlinear differential equations
Authors: Atangana Abdon , Araz Seda İğret
Published: February 2024

The existence and uniqueness of solutions to nonlinear ordinary differential equations with fractal-fractional derivatives, with Dirac-delta, exponential decay, power law, and generalized Mittag-Leffler kernels, have been the focus of this work. To do this, we used the Chaplygin approach, which entails creating two lower and upper sequences that converge to the solution of the equations under consideration. We have for each case provided the conditions under which these sequences are obtained and converge.
Sobre los orígenes de la escritura romance en los documentos hebraicos de Aguilar de Campoo
Authors: Ramos Remedios Emiliana
Published: February 2024

Tres conocidos documentos de Aguilar de Campoo relacionados con judíos, uno de 1187 y dos de 1219 y 1220, han sido vinculados con el proceso de creación de un sistema de escritura propiamente romance. Sin embargo, la diferente factura de los dos últimos, solo conservados en la copia del Becerro de Aguilar, que reproducen la estructura de una carta de quiñán y una lengua que combina una base del castellano norteño local ‒por ejemplo, la contracción de preposición más artículo, enno/enna‒ con algunos rasgos ajenos a ella y propios de otros textos romances escritos en alefato, como el uso del posesivo lur, permiten proponer que los textos de 1219 y 1220 están redactados en un romance de mixtura que comparte ciertos elementos ‒algunos de ellos característicos de las variantes orientales peninsulares‒ con otros textos aljamiados peninsulares.
Artelogie, 10 ans.
Authors: Christine Frérot , Colette Grandclaudon , Edgard Vidal
Published: February 2024

Ce numéro, façonné par les travaux de nombreux collaborateurs qui nous ont accompagnés tout au long de ces dix années et qui ont partagé nos passions et nos soucis, est pour la plupart, un témoignage d’amitié. Ainsi, le premier texte aborde un problème plus global qui nous concerne spécifiquement, intitulé “Une défense des humanités : les différentes cultures en dispute”. Dans cet article, Obed Frausto, en accord avec Edward Said, affirme qu’il est nécessaire pour défendre les humanités des multiples attaques qu’elles subissent aujourd’hui, de “donner forme à une approximation humaniste diverse, cosmopolite et enracinée dans le texte et le langage, capable de prendre en charge les grandes leçons du passé, […] sans pour autant perdre de vue les voix émergentes et les courants plus actuels”. Frausto fait alors appel à l’imagination critique en engageant un dialogue entre les différentes cultures. Ce dialogue, de nature interdisciplinaire, devrait être animé par l’humilité et la recherche de justice envers les plus défavorisés.
Juego de repeticiones y espirales narrativas en la poética cinematográfica de Matías Piñeiro
Authors: Soria Carolina
Published: February 2024

El presente artículo propone un recorrido por la filmografía “shakespereana” del realizador argentino Matías Piñeiro, tomando como eje de análisis la relación intertextual que sus films establecen con la obra del dramaturgo inglés.
Les quilles, les vaches, les chiens, le beau, le kitsch, la paille et la poutre. Merci Colina
Authors: Kabous Magali
Published: February 2024

Ce texte rend hommage au cinéaste, professeur, critique de cinéma et homme de télévision cubain, Enrique Colina, décédé le 27 octobre 2020. Unanimement reconnu dans son pays pour ses multiples activités autour du cinéma, il a aussi été un grand fidèle des Rencontres toulousaines.
A new stroke mimic prediction scale in a stroke center with a high thrombolysis rate
Authors: Moroni Federico , Vannucchi Vieri , Vinci Costanza , Bianchi Simone , Giuello Alessandra , Prosperi Iovi Francesco , Lanigra Michele , Konze Angela , Landini Giancarlo
Published: February 2024

Patients reaching the emergency department (ED) with symptoms of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) may be affected by a stroke mimics (SMs). A prompt clinical diagnosis could avoid unnecessary thrombolysis. We evaluated a new and rapid approach, the Santa Maria Nuova-Stroke Mimic (SMN-SM) scale, to improve a prompt clinical diagnosis. 340 consecutive patients admitted to the ED with suspected AIS were evaluated. The final diagnosis was: AIS in 267 (78,5%) and SMs in 73 (21,5%) patients. Multivariate logistical analysis showed that the following features – lack of facial paralysis, dizziness, migraine, seizure disorders, blood pressure <150, cognitive impairment, and female sex – were significantly more abundant in patients with SMs than in AIS. To each of these features we assigned a numerical score and we performed a receiver operating characteristic analysis. When the score of the scale was above 8 (cut-point), we obtained a specificity of 93% and a sensitivity of 56% for a SM diagnosis. Thus, the SMN-SM scale seems a rather useful tool to improve SMs diagnosis.
Chemical constituents of ostracod Heterocypris salina extract, anticancer and antimicrobial activity: in silico supported in vitro study
Authors: Hegab Mahmoud H. , Abdelhameed Moustafa S. , Shawer Ehab E. , El-Dein Asmaa Negm , Sabour Rehab , Ghareeb Mosad A.
Published: February 2024

Background

The majority of bioactive compounds derived from the sea have been extracted from aquatic invertebrates. While Ostracods are a diverse class of crustaceans that inhabit marine, brackish, and freshwaters, there are no available studies testing Ostracoda in the medical field.

Objective

The aim of this work was to produce H. salina on a large scale to evaluate its crude extract for anticancer and antimicrobial activities.

Materials and methods

Ostracod, Heterocypris salina was collected from its habitat in the eastern side of Lake Manzalla, Egypt, and the species was cultured in Soaba System of the National Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (NIOF), Al-Khairia City, Egypt). Crude extract of Heterocypris salina was prepared and the extract was tested as an anticancer against different human cancer cell lines. Also, the extract was investigated as antimicrobial against different Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. In addition, chemical composition of the extract by GC-MS analysis and molecular docking were also studies.

Results and conclusion

Ostracod Heterocypris salina was cultured, at day 50 of the culturing, about 500 L of the culturing pond was harvested using plankton to collect the biomass of H. salina. A methanol extract of H. salina was prepared and showed a moderate to good anticancer effect against liver (HepG2), lung (A549), colon (HCT), and breast (MCF7) cancer cell lines with IC50 values in the range of 12.8–23.2 µg/ml), being safe for the healthy cells of the same organs. Also, the H. salina extract showed activity against three tested Gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, and Salmonella typhi) and two Gram-positive (Sarcina lutea and Bacillus cereus) bacteria. GC-MS analysis of H. salina extract revealed the presence of 11 compounds including ethyl iso-allocholate (23.1%), 9(Z)-octadecenamide, (Z)-(20.6%), oleic acid (12.3%), palmitic acid (11.65%), and α-amyrin (10.73%). Moreover, a molecular docking study was performed in order to determine the possible binding interactions of the test compounds with the essential amino acids in the binding site of thymidylate kinase (TMK).
Insights into bioactive microbial natural products and drug discovery
Authors: Hamed Ahmed A. , Ghareeb Mosad A. , Soliman Nariman R. , Bakchiche Boulanouar , Bardaweel Sanaa K.
Published: February 2024

Recently, natural products have attracted much attention as a valuable source for the discovery of new and potential lead compounds with widely diverse biological activities. Among all-natural product sources, microorganisms emerged as a potential pipeline for new drug leads and new chemical entities with promising biomedical applications. Since the discovery of the first bioactive microbial product, penicillin, the exploitation of microorganisms has led to the production of a variety of natural products ranging from alcohol to antibiotics with multiple applications, including inhibition of infectious diseases such as (antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral) and noninfectious diseases like obesity, some kinds of diarrhea, cancer, anemia, atopic dermatitis, and diabetes. In this review, we aim to highlight the current literature describing the bioactive microbial natural products, produced by bacteria, fungi, and algae, which have distinct chemical structures that may serve as a robust platform for drug discovery inspiration.
Screening of among seventeen sunflowers (Helianthus annuus L.) genotypes for oil content and the first flowering day using random amplified polymorphic DNA markers
Authors: Rashad Shimaa E. , Eldemerdash Ibthal S. , Hamed Hamdy M. , Emam Mohamed A. , Heiba Samy A.A.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sunflower refers to the tribe Helianthus, subtribe Helianthinae, and family Asteraceae, which collectively contains 20 genera and 400 species. An important oilseed crop that yields edible oil is Helianthus annuus L.

Objective

The primary goal of the current study was to assess the genetic diversity of 17 genotypes of sunflower (Helianthus annuus L) To measure the oil content during the initial flowering period and to reach the highest percentage of oil can be obtained from the first flowering day.

Materials and methods

Five RAPD (random amplified polymorphic DNA) primers were used to detect the genetic diversity of the 17 sunflower hybrid genotypes obtained from Spain. Phylogenetic relationships of 17 sunflower genotypes were determined using three replications and 6 m lines on August 15, 2019, at the National Research Centre farm in Nubaria as part of a donation from the German corporation (strobe), Spain. To analyze the genetic diversity and phylogenetic linkages in sunflower germplasm, DNA fingerprinting and the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular marker approach were also used.

Results and conclusion

The oil content of 17 sunflower genotypes (Helianthus annuus L.) was assessed, with values ranging from 46 to 50%, with the highest values falling into five genotypes. However, the two genotypes were found to have the lowest oil percentage (46%). The early age and oil percentage differed among the varieties. In the Tornado and Elves genotypes, the longest and shortest days were 59 and 47, respectively. The means and standard errors for all statistical data are reported. Statistical significance was evaluated using the LSD. P values were considered statistically significant at P less than or equal to 0.05. According to the findings, RAPD primers generated 49 bands with a size range of 0.1–3 kb and an 87.75% polymorphism percentage. For RAPD, 43 polymorphic bands with distinct bands were observed. Morphological features and RAPD analysis separated the UPGMA Dendrogram into three groups. Jaccard’s coefficient was used to analyze the genetic similarity matrix, and a morphological study revealed that Tornado and Elvas, both from Spain, shared the most genetic similarity (0.970). RAPD analysis and morphological features are useful in identifying genetic variants. Conclusion, according to our findings, Helianthus annuus L. has a significant variation ratio. Indicating substantial diversity across the 17 sunflower genotypes, the genetic similarity index calculated using pooled data from RAPD markers showed an extensive range from 0.645 to 0.986. This study may be a reference for future research on Helianthus annuus L. and may support breeding initiatives and species concepts.
The immunological response of Egyptians to coronavirus disease-19 infection: a cohort study of lymphocyte populations and peripheral blood counts
Authors: Ghorab Raghda , Salama Mohamed , Abdelnaby Asmaa , Kholoussi Naglaa M , Abou-Elwafa Menna-Allah Zakaria
Published: February 2024

Background

The worldwide pandemic of COVID-19 infection that started in 2019 still lays its shadows over all populations of the world. COVID-19 infection presented with a spectrum of symptoms that varied from wave to wave, and also led to a wide number of long-term sequelae. Many immune system cells and cytokines were implicated in COVID-19 pathophysiology. Thus, many immuno-modulator and immuno-suppressive drugs were used in the management of severe cases. Lymphocytes are the key players of immune system, the change in their count and different subsets is expected to vary with COVID-19 infection.

Objective

The current study aimed to evaluate the role of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets in predicting the outcome of COVID-19 patients and to investigate their correlation with different clinical and laboratory variables.

Materials and methods

The study included 64 patients hospitalized with Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). They were stratified according to in-hospital mortality into survivors and nonsurvivors. Demographic, clinical and laboratory data were collected. Flowcytometric evaluation of lymphocyte subsets was done on admission.

Results and conclusion

Nonsurvivors showed lower relative lymphocyte count, higher absolute neutrophil count, and higher neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) compared with survivors (P = 0.034, 0.006, 0.011; respectively). NLR at a cut off 15.3 had a sensitivity of 70.59% and specificity of 61.29% for predicting mortality in COVID-19 patients. The relative and absolute counts of lymphocyte subsets did not show a statistically significant difference between the two groups. Platelet count showed statistically significant positive correlation with absolute counts of total T lymphocytes, T helper, T cytotoxic, and B lymphocytes. The platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), NLR and D-dimer results were negatively correlated with the total T lymphocytes, T helper, T cytotoxic, naïve T cytotoxic and B lymphocyte absolute counts.

The NLR, absolute neutrophil count and platelet count may serve as adjuvant predictors of survival in COVID-19 disease. Although lymphocyte subsets did not differ statistically across survival groups, their correlation with other possible prognostic markers may justify further investigation on their role in COVID-19 pathophysiology.
Secondary analysis: Graph analysis of brain connectivity network in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Pourmotahari Fatemeh , Borumandnia Nasrin , Tabatabaei Seyyed Mohammad , Alavimajd Hamid
Published: February 2024

Background:

Autism spectrum disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition in which impaired connectivity of the brain network. The functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) technique can provide information on the early diagnosis of autism by evaluating communication patterns in the brain. The present study aimed to assess functional connectivity (FC) variations in autism patients.

Materials and Methods:

Resting-state fMRI data were obtained from the “ABIDE” website. These data include 294 autism patients with a mean (standard deviation) age of 16.49 (7.63) and 312 healthy individuals with a mean (standard deviation) age of 15.98 (6.31). In this study, changes in communication patterns across different brain regions in autism patients were investigated using graph-based models.

Results:

The FC cluster of 17 regions in the brain, such as the hippocampus, cuneus, and inferior temporal, was different between the patient and healthy groups. Based on connectivity analysis of pair regions, 36 of the 136 correlations in the cluster were significantly different between the two groups. The middle temporal gyrus had more communication than the other regions. The largest difference between groups was – 0.112, which corresponding to the right middle temporal and right thalamus regions.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study revealed functional relationship alterations in patients with autism compared to healthy individuals, indicating the disease’s effects on the brain connectivity network.
Cell polarization in ischemic stroke: molecular mechanisms and advances
Authors: Li Yuanwei , Xu Xiaoxiao , Wu Xuan , Li Jiarui , Chen Shiling , Chen Danyang , Li Gaigai , Tang Zhouping
Published: February 2024

Ischemic stroke is a cerebrovascular disease associated with high mortality and disability rates. Since the inflammation and immune response play a central role in driving ischemic damage, it becomes essential to modulate excessive inflammatory reactions to promote cell survival and facilitate tissue repair around the injury site. Various cell types are involved in the inflammatory response, including microglia, astrocytes, and neutrophils, each exhibiting distinct phenotypic profiles upon stimulation. They display either proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory states, a phenomenon known as ‘cell polarization.’ There are two cell polarization therapy strategies. The first involves inducing cells into a neuroprotective phenotype in vitro, then reintroducing them autologously. The second approach utilizes small molecular substances to directly affect cells in vivo. In this review, we elucidate the polarization dynamics of the three reactive cell populations (microglia, astrocytes, and neutrophils) in the context of ischemic stroke, and provide a comprehensive summary of the molecular mechanisms involved in their phenotypic switching. By unraveling the complexity of cell polarization, we hope to offer insights for future research on neuroinflammation and novel therapeutic strategies for ischemic stroke.
Small extracellular vesicles derived from human induced pluripotent stem cell-differentiated neural progenitor cells mitigate retinal ganglion cell degeneration in a mouse model of optic nerve injury
Authors: Li Tong , Xing Hui-Min , Qian Hai-Dong , Gao Qiao , Xu Sheng-Lan , Ma Hua , Chi Zai-Long
Published: February 2024

JOURNAL/nrgr/04.03/01300535-202502000-00034/figure1/v/2024-11-07T113602Z/r/image-tiff

Several studies have found that transplantation of neural progenitor cells (NPCs) promotes the survival of injured neurons. However, a poor integration rate and high risk of tumorigenicity after cell transplantation limits their clinical application. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) contain bioactive molecules for neuronal protection and regeneration. Previous studies have shown that stem/progenitor cell-derived sEVs can promote neuronal survival and recovery of neurological function in neurodegenerative eye diseases and other eye diseases. In this study, we intravitreally transplanted sEVs derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and hiPSCs-differentiated NPCs (hiPSC-NPC) in a mouse model of optic nerve crush. Our results show that these intravitreally injected sEVs were ingested by retinal cells, especially those localized in the ganglion cell layer. Treatment with hiPSC-NPC-derived sEVs mitigated optic nerve crush-induced retinal ganglion cell degeneration, and regulated the retinal microenvironment by inhibiting excessive activation of microglia. Component analysis further revealed that hiPSC-NPC derived sEVs transported neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory miRNA cargos to target cells, which had protective effects on RGCs after optic nerve injury. These findings suggest that sEVs derived from hiPSC-NPC are a promising cell-free therapeutic strategy for optic neuropathy.
Association between serum zinc levels and multiple cutaneous warts: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mani Divya , Dileep Jude Ernest , Kaliyaperumal Damayandhi , Kuruvila Sheela , Govardhan Jagadeeshkumar , Sadasivam Ilakkiapriya , Takharya Rajkiran
Published: February 2024

Background:

Warts are cutaneous manifestations of human papillomavirus (HPV). Trauma and maceration facilitate initial epidermal inoculation. The spread may then occur by autoinoculation. Local and systemic immune factors appear to influence the spread. Zinc is an essential micronutrient having a wide spectrum of actions. Deficiency of the same adversely affects the immune function, especially, T cell functions. The role of zinc as an immunological modulator activates lymphocytes and cytokines against the penetration and replication of viruses, which has increasingly been recognized. Numerous skin disorders have been linked to zinc deficiency. A high dose of oral zinc sulfate has shown outstanding therapeutic efficacy and prevents relapse in patients with recalcitrant and multiple warts. Owing to the therapeutic efficacy of oral zinc in the treatment of warts, the current study was undertaken to find out the association between serum zinc level and multiple cutaneous warts among the study population.

Materials and methods:

One hundred and ten patients with cutaneous warts met the inclusion criteria and an equal number of age and sex-matched controls were enrolled. A consecutive sampling technique was used for the enrolment. Details regarding the duration, number, clinical type, size, and distribution of the warts were recorded. Serum zinc levels were estimated in both cases and controls. Data were tabulated and analyzed using the SPSS software version 20.

Results:

The reference range for normal serum zinc levels was taken as 60–180 µg/dL. Normal serum zinc levels were found in 91 (100%) of the cases and 100 (110%) of the controls; high levels were found only in 9 (10%) of the cases. Cases were found to have significantly higher mean serum zinc levels compared with the controls. (121.1 ± 35.78 µg/dL vs. 101.8 ± 20.48µg/dL, P = 0.0001).

Conclusion:

Patients with multiple cutaneous warts were found to have higher mean serum zinc levels compared with age and sex-matched controls. There was no significant association of serum zinc levels with the duration or the number of warts.
Deep Cryogenic Temperature CMOS Circuit and System Design for Quantum Computing Applications
Authors: J Jency Rubia , C Sherin Shibi , A Rosi , R Babitha Lincy , Nithila Ezhil E
Published: February 2024

Quantum computing is a fascinating and rapidly evolving field of technology that promises to revolutionize many areas of science, engineering, and society. The fundamental unit of quantum computing is the quantum bit that can exist in two or more states concurrently, as opposed to a classical bit that can only be either 0 or 1. Any subatomic element, including atoms, electrons, and photons, can be used to implement qubits. The chosen sub-atomic elements should have quantum mechanical properties. Most commonly, photons have been used to implement qubits. Qubits can be manipulated and read by applying external fields or pulses, such as lasers, magnets, or microwaves. Quantum computers are currently suffering from various complications such as size, operating temperature, coherence problems, entanglement, etc. The realization of quantum computing, a novel paradigm that uses quantum mechanical phenomena to do computations that are not possible with classical computers, is made possible, most crucially, by the need for a quantum processor and a quantum SOC. As a result, Cryo-CMOS technology can make it possible to integrate a Quantum system on a chip. Cryo-CMOS devices are electronic circuits that operate at cryogenic temperatures, usually below 77 K (−196 °C).
Fingerprint Dermatoglyphic Patterns among Adults with Type II Diabetes Mellitus in Western Kenya
Authors: Clevin Aswani Wakhisi , Dominic Marera Oduor , Willis Oyieko Oriyo
Published: February 2024

Background: Dermatoglyphics is the study of epidermal ridges and their configurations on the skin of the palms and soles of the foot.  The patterns can be grouped into loops, whorls, and arches each of them having a unique characteristic that appears to be influenced by  genetic factors. Diabetes Mellitus is a common metabolic disorder caused by reduced insulin secretion. Type 2 diabetes results from  genetic disorders involving multiple genes that control insulin secretion and action. This study aimed to assess the variations in  fingerprint patterns among adults with Type II diabetes mellitus which could be used as an early, easy, cheap and painless method of screening diabetes.

Materials and Methods: A comparative cross-sectional study design was used where 150 diabetic patients were compared with 150 non-diabetics as controls all selected from Kakamega County Teaching Referral Hospital, Western Kenya. Socio- demographic data and family history were recorded, thereafter fingerprints were taken using the Indian ink method. The chi-square test was used to check for a significant association between the pattern variations in diabetics and the control group.

Results: The study  involved 300 respondents where 33.33% were aged above 60 years with females being the majority at 60.67 % while among diabetics 68  % had a family history of diabetes. Whorl (p=0.0003) and ulna loops (p=0.002) patterns were decreased among male diabetics when  compared to male non-diabetics while in female diabetics, whorl patterns were increased (p=0.02929) when compared to female non- diabetics. There was an association between whorl patterns and family history among diabetics (p=0.049). Ulna loops were significantly  low (p=0.004) while whorls were significantly high (p=0.016) among diabetics when compared to non-diabetics.

Conclusion: This study  showed that dermatoglyphic patterns could be used as a feature for early screening of type II diabetes.
Antiplasmodial Properties of Ethanol Stem-Bark Extract of Newbouldia Laevis (P. Beauv) Seem in P. Berghei Infected Mice
Authors: Adeyinka Aderinola A. , Jane Ejiofor I. , Ben Chindo A.
Published: February 2024

Background: Despite substantial improvement in the management of malaria infection over the last centuries, it remains a significant  public threat especially to those in the tropical and subtropical African regions due to the emergence of drug-resistant P. falciparum  strains, delayed diagnosis, high cost as well as contraindications of some available antimalarial medications. Hence, the need for  necessary measures in terms of alternative therapeutic approaches to counter this threat is of utmost importance. The present study was  aimed at determining the antimalarial potential of ethanol stem-bark extract of Newbouldia laevis in P. berghei (NK65) infected mice. 

Methodology: The antimalarial activity of Newbouldia laevis stem-bark at 250, 500 and 1,000 mg/kg was investigated in mice infected  with 1 x 107 parasitized erythrocytes using three experimental animal models: Peter's 4-day suppressive, curative and prophylactic  models. Phytochemical screening of the stem bark was also conducted.

Results: The extract at all tested doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/ kg showed significant (p<0.01) and dose-dependent reductions in the parasitemia levels of the treated rats with percentage chemosuppresion of 90.7, 91.8 and 94% respectively in the Peters 4-day suppressive test. There were also significant (p<0.01) dose- dependent reductions in parasitemia density of the treated rats at all doses of 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg in the curative and prophylactic  studies compared to the distilled water group. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of carbohydrates, tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, steroids and anthraquinones in the crude extract.

Conclusion: The results suggest  that ethanol stem-bark extract of Newbouldia laevis possesses antimalarial activity and this justifies the traditional use of the stem-bark  of the plant in antimalarial herbal remedy.
Competence of Healthcare Providers in Managing Lymphedema Post Breast Cancer Treatment: A study in western Kenya hospitals
Authors: Wepukhulu Rosemary Lusike , Okoth John Martin , Ochanda Damaris
Published: February 2024

Background: Globally, breast cancer, the most diagnosed cancer, affects around 2.3 million individuals. Approximately 28% to 38% of breast cancer patients develop lymphedema post-treatment, impacting one in five patients. Without intervention, the condition leads to serious complications, affecting daily tasks. Sub-Saharan Africa reports increasing comorbidities related to lymphedema, yet no data exists on its prevalence in Kenya. This study assessed clinical management strategies for breast cancer treatment-induced lymphedema in selected Western Kenya hospitals.

Material And Methods: This was a cross-sectional analytic study. Simple random sampling was used to select healthcare facilities offering cancer screening and treatment. Healthcare providers were randomly selected from five health facilities depending on the number required at each health facility. 192 healthcare providers were selected to participate in the study. Data collection was by structured questionnaires, observation checklist and focus group discussion, analysed by SPSS version 23.1 and Qualitative data thematically analysed guided by questions on knowledge, skills and management strategies.

Results: The results showed healthcare providers' knowledge ranging from low to average with a deficit in important areas of practice such as skincare (OR=0.56, p=0.01). stocking pressure (OR=1.841, P=0.004, positive stemmer's sign test (OR=2.217, p=0.001) with over 50% getting incorrect answers. Good history and assessment Skills were demonstrated (0R=1.6; CI;1.0-24; P=0.037) but patient education was poorly done. Focus group discussion showed a deficit in knowledge by failure to clearly define lymphedema.

Conclusion: Structured education of lymphedema is needed to increase the knowledge of healthcare providers and improving knowledge may fill the gaps in knowledge and demonstrate good practical skills in patient management
Evaluating the impact of Moringa oleifera (Linnaeus, 1753) and Eucalyptus globulus (L’ Heritier (1789) leave extract on Clarias gariepinus fingerlings’ growth
Authors: A. M Sulaiman , H Abdul-Azeez , Z. R Mudi , A.M Orire , M Haruna
Published: February 2024

The need to improve quality of aquafeed that would bring about higher aquaculture yield hasattracted attention for the inclusion of Plant materials into fish feed. This study investigatedthe inclusion of Moringa oleifera and Eucalyptus globulus leaf extracts into the diets of Clarias gariepinus fingerings. A feeding trials of 56 -days duration was involved in this study. The feeding trial was made of eight isonitrogenous 40%CP diets comprising sixexp erimental diets, a control diet (ZSD) and a reference commercial diet (CRD). Three of the six diets had each with 2% inclusion level of any two out of the aqueous, ethanol and hexane extracts of Moringa leaf at 1:1 ratio. The remaining three diets had similar combination of Eucalyptus leaf extracts. The experiment was conducted in a Completely Randomise design (CRD) made of eight treatments. The experimental set-up was conductedin flow-through system made of 50 litres plastic basins and each treatment made in triplicates. Results of the feeding trials indicated significant differences (P<0.05) among each of the growth and feed utilization parameters evaluated from the treatments. The control diets and the reference diets gave better growth of the fingerlings and feed utilization efficiency than the experimental diets. The control diet had 42.68% higher specific growth rate (SGR) than the top performing Eucalyptus-extract base diet (EHEA) and 43.81% than the top performing Moringa-extract base diet (MAME). Possible reason for the poor performance might be attributed to the inclusion level of the Eucalyptus extracts been higher than 1% established optimum level in an earlier study. Equally, poor performance of the Moringa extracts inclusion might be due to the relatively low level of its inclusion in the present study compared with better results recorded from some earlier studies with higher inclusion levels. Further study is hereby recommended into the possible impact of the extraction solvents used in this study on the poor growth recorded.
Seasonal variation of stomatal characteristics of Ficus species grown in Zaria, North Western Nigeria
Authors: F. U Adamu , B. Y Abubakar , A. O Musa
Published: February 2024

Foliar stomatal characteristics are among the commonly used characters for the identificationand delimitation of taxa. This study was carried out to determine variations in stomatalcharacteristics of some members in the Genus Ficus grown in Zaria, part of the Sudan Savanna zone of Nigeria. Eight different Ficus species grown in Zaria were used for the study. Microscopic observations of foliar stomatal characteristics were carried out following standard established protocols during both the dry and rainy seasons. Stomatal preparations were obtained using matured leaves by treating each leaf with sodium hypochlorite to clear the chlorophyll contents. Measurements of stomatal characters were made with the aid of an ocular micrometer and stage micrometer. Photomicrographs were taken. The data obtainedwere subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) with Duncan’s New Multiple Range Test used to separate significant means at 5 % level. The result obtained revealed significant difference (P≤0.05) in the stomatal characteristics of the Ficus species with season. Anomocytic stomata was detected in all the species. There were variations with abaxial stomata cell length ranging from 23.32-50.24 μm in dry season and in the rainy season, the abaxial cell length ranged between 26.78-46.43 μm. Also, the stomatal index in the dry season ranged from 1.30% to 27.16% while in the rainy season, it ranged from 15.29 % to 23.19 %.
Impact of cassava mill effluent on the microbial population and distribution in polluted soils in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria
Authors: R. N Nweke , S. C Onuoha , J. O Orji
Published: February 2024

Cassava mill effluent generated from cassava processing when discharged to the soil, altersthe nature of soil properties and also becomes a major cause of environmental degradation.This research characterized bacteria and fungi distributed in cassava effluent polluted soils inAbakaliki, Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Soil samples were collected over a period of three monthsusing a sterile soil auger into a sterile sample zip bag for analysis. The bacterial count from thedifferent sites varied significantly (p<0.01). The total colony count of bacteria from the effluent obtained from rice mill cassava processing sites ranged from 4.0±0.2x106 CFU/g to 8.6±0.8x106 CFU/g. During August, the bacterial loads also differed very significantly (p<0.01) ranging from 3.3±0.3x106 CFU/g to 6.5±0.6x106 CFU/g across the locations. Similarly, the fungal count varied significantly (p<0.01) ranging from 1.7±0.1x106 CFU/g to 3.4±0.3x106 CFU/g across the locations in June. The bacteria species isolated from the polluted soil sample include E.coli, Staphylococcus spp, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella spp, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Proteus spp, while the fungal species identified include Articulospora inflata, Trichoderma spp, Aspergillus spp and Penicillium spp. These organisms were also present in the unpolluted soil samples except for Articulospora inflata which was solely isolated from polluted soil sample in some of the sampled sites. This study has shown that bacterial population was higher in cassava mill polluted soil compared to the unpolluted sites. Whereas, the fungal population indicated only a mild increase in the polluted compared to the unpolluted sites.
Rural farmers access to extension services: Implications for increased adoption of improved farm technologies in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Ikoyo-Eweto G.O. , Adedokun I.F. , Archibong J.P. , Okwuokenye G.F.
Published: February 2024

This study analyzed rural farmers access to extension services and its implications for increased adoption of improved farm technologies in Delta State, Nigeria. It examined the personal characteristics of the respondents of the study, the rate of farmers access to extension services, evaluates the impacts of farmers access to extension services on farm technology adoption and identified the strategies that could be adopted to improve extension service access to farmers. The respondents were randomly selected through multi-stage sampling technique and the data gathered were analyzed using descriptive and inferential techniques. Results revealed that most of the respondents were males (65.96%), married (67.38%), have secondary education (38.29%) have membership with cooperative societies (86.52%) and have access to credit provision (82.27%). The average age, household size, farming experience and farm size was 40.04 years, 7 persons, 10.78 years and 3.23 ha. respectively. The rate of access to extension services was high (45.39%) and that have positively impacted on the farmers in several ways. Several strategies were agreed that can improving the rate of access of farmers to extension services to include: improving on farmers educational level (mean = 4.31) and members of farmers social group (mean = 4.31). Personal characteristics like gender, age, level of education, household size, cooperative membership and farm income were found to significantly affect the rate of farmers access to extension services. The result also showed that farmers access to extension services have also impacted significantly to household welfare. Based on results, the study recommended that there is still need to privatize, if not all but some sensitive aspects of the extension service system that could help to better the farmers output, income and welfare.
Spatial changes of soil structural properties and organic carbon storage of arable farmland at Umuahia, Abia State
Authors: Amanze C. T. , Nwosu C. O. , Eluagu K. F. , Ukabiala M.E. , Amulu L. U.
Published: February 2024

Precision agriculture requires that spatial changes of soil structural properties and soil organic carbon (SOC) accumulation be established for effective soil management. A research was carried out to ascertain the spatial variation of soil structural properties and organic carbon accumulation of an arable farmland at Umuahia. The experiment was conducted by delineating the land into three (3) portions. Three auger and core soil samples each were randomly collected from each portion, and this gave nine (9) observational points which were georeferenced. The soil samples were prepared and analysed in a laboratory for determination of parameters. The data generated were analysed for spatial variation using a GIS software package. The highest SOC accumulation of 26.46 ton / ha was obtained at the extreme north and northwestern regions of the land, while the lowest SOC accumulation of 19.71 ton / ha was obtained at extreme southeastern region of the land. The entire central area to the north western portion of the land had lowest bulk density (BD) of 1.33 kg / m3, while the southward to the north eastern portions of the land had the highest BD of 1.37 kg / m3. The highest hydraulic conductivity of 4.75 cm / mins was observed at the south western portion. The southward and extreme north eastern portions of the land had the highest mean weight diameter (MWD) of 0.95 mm, while the lowest MWD of 0.75 mm was observed at the central areaand extended to the north western portions of the land. There were also spatial changes in the total porosity, and micro aggregate stability indices across the land area. Suitable agronomic practices need to be adopted within the various portions of the land in managing the soil.
Assessment of normal human breast cells (MCF10A cells)–Surface interactions on porous poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS) structures for potential biomedical applications
Authors: Eluu S. C. , Oko A.O. , Esimone C.O. , Eluu K. , Onyekwere U.U. , Uzor S. , Ekuma E.T. , Okoye C.S. , Eze G.O. , Obaji N.R.
Published: February 2024

Biocompatibility stands out as a crucial and fundamental requirement before approval of biomaterials for medical use. The study aimed to evaluate the interaction between normal human breast cells (MCF10A cells) and porous poly-di-methyl-siloxane (PDMS) structures for potential biomedical applications. Preparation and characterization of the PDMS substrate were carried out, followed by the assessment of cell proliferation and fluorescence imaging using an Alamar blue assay and fluorescence microscopy, respectively. The results revealed that initially (at 4 hours post-incubation), there was no notable difference in cell proliferation among the various groups (non-porous PDMS, PDMS_0-150, PDMS_150-250, and PDMS_250500). However, at 48 and 96 hours, a significant increase in cell proliferation was observed in the PDMS_250–500 μm group compared to other groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, the results of the fluorescence microscopy corroborated a substantial enhancement in cell growth and attachment as the porosity of the PDMS substrate increased. However, cells seeded on non-porous PDMS surfaces exhibited a significant decline (P<0.05) in cell growth in both the Alamar blue assay and fluorescence imaging. These findings hold great promise for the creation of surfaces and materials that are specifically designed to influence biological reactions and show potential for a range of biomedical uses.
Aspartame and diet soda impact on blood sugar and insulin in Wistar rat
Authors: Eiya B.O. , Osunbor J.O.
Published: February 2024

Research reports on the safety of Aspartame as a sugar substitute which was intended to reduce the prevalence of metabolic disorders has been inconclusive. Thus, this study is aimed at investigating the effects of aspartame and diet soda on body weight, blood sugar and insulin levels. Thirty seven Wistar rats were divided into: Group 1 (5): control group and administered 5ml of distilled water daily. Groups 2 and 3 (8 each) received high and low doses of diet soda respectively. Groups 4 and 5 (8 each) received high (45 mg/ kg b.w) and low (22.5 mg/kg b.w) doses of aspartame respectively. After 10 weeks, the rats were subjected to an overnight fast for the determination of fasting blood sugar test after which they were sacrificed. Blood samples were collected and the pancreas harvested and put in formal saline for histological analysis. Insulin level was measured using ELISA technique. Results show various morphological changes in the pancreas of all experimental groups, including hypoplastic islet, vascular congestion and ulceration, nerve hypertrophy, amongst others. Body weight was significantly increased in groups given high diet soda (114 ± 0.12g) and aspartame (121 ± 0.17g) when compared with the control (85 ± 0.21g). However, there was no significant difference in fasting blood sugar and insulin levels in all treated groups compared to control. In conclusion, this study has shown that chronic consumption of aspartame and diet soda increased body weight, but no effect on blood sugar and insulin levels. The adverse effects on pancreas morphology suggest impending health implications.