bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between body image, self-esteem, and body mass index in patients with schizophrenia at a tertiary care unit: A case–control study
Authors: Pindikura Ranjit Kumar , Javangula Swetha Krishna , Kumar K. Uday
Published: May 2022

Background:

When compared to the general population, patients with schizophrenia are more likely to have a higher body mass index (BMI). As a result, they are more likely to have low self-esteem, poor quality of life, and poor drug adherence.

Aims and Objectives:

The aims and objectives of the study are to compare the body image and self-esteem in patients on treatment for schizophrenia with healthy controls and study the association of BMI with body image and self-esteem in them.

Setting and Design:

This was a case–control study, comprising 50 patients with schizophrenia who attended the outpatient clinic of our tertiary health-care unit’s department of psychiatry and 50 healthy controls.

Materials and Methods:

Sociodemographic data were obtained, and BMI was computed. Body image was assessed using the Body Weight, Image, and Self-Esteem Evaluation Questionnaire (B-WISE), and global self-worth was measured using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale for all participants.

Statistical Analysis:

Chi-square test/Fisher’s exact test was used to assess independent variables and their distribution across the study groups. Mann–Whitney U-test was used to compare the means of continuous variables across the study groups. Pearson and Spearman correlation tests were done to study the association between clinical variables. It was done using IBM SPSS 22 Program on the windows operating system.

Results:

The schizophrenia group differed from the control group in marital status (P = 0.012) and educational level (P = 0.001) calculated using the Chi-square test. They also differed significantly in terms of BMI (P < 0.001) and self-esteem (P < 0 .001) assessed using the Mann–Whitney U-test. There was no significant difference in B-WISE scores between the groups (P = 0.0451). Spearman correlation revealed a positive correlation between B-WISE scores and self-esteem scores, a negative correlation between BMI and self-esteem scores, and between BMI and B-WISE scores among the cases.

Conclusion:

Patients with schizophrenia had lower self-esteem and increased BMI compared to controls. Patients with a better body image had more self-esteem. Patients with greater BMI had poorer body image and lower self-esteem.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of COVID-19 critically ill patients
Authors: Mohammadien Hamdy A. , Dongol Eptehal M. , Wassef Abdelmessih K. , Morsi Shimaa N.
Published: May 2022

Background

Medical information regarding critically ill coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patient course of disease and outcomes are fundamental to providing the best medical care and avoiding possible complications.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical characters, outcomes, and mortality risk factors in COVID-19 critically ill patients

Patients and methods

In our study, 31 adult ICU patients admitted to Sohag General Hospital and Health Insurance Hospital in Sohag Governorate were included from September 2020 to October 2020. Coronavirus was affirmed by an reverse transcriptase-PCR of a nasopharyngeal swab. Clinical information was separated from clinical sheets.

Results

The mean age of the patients was 60 years, 61.3% were males, 64.5% had comorbidities, which were more in improved than dead cases (P<0.04). The dead cases had a significantly longer symptom duration till ICU admission than the improved (P<0.0001). The improved cases had considerably higher oxygen saturation on admission than dead cases (P<0.02). Mechanical ventilation was indicated in eight out of 31 patients with a mean duration of 4±2.56 days and all of them died. Mortality rate was 41.9%. The dead cases needed a vasopressor therapy more than the improved (P<0.001). Acute respiratory distress syndrome was higher in the dead cases (P<0.003). Acute cardiac injury was higher in the dead cases (P<0.02).

Conclusion

Several predictors influence survival in COVID-19 critically ill patients including comorbidities, duration of symptoms till ICU admission, O2 saturation on admission, development of complication, and laboratory findings including ferritin, C-reactive protein, D-dimer, and thrombocytopenia on ICU admission.
Asthma–chronic obstructive pulmonary disease overlap syndrome – a brief review
Authors: Anigati Elena , Verma Sameer , Khanijo Sameer
Published: May 2022

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common disease observed worldwide. The etiologies of these conditions may be different, but their manifestations lead to inflammation and limited airflow. A small subject of population doesn’t meet the criteria of asthma or COPD. As a result, in more recent, years a new clinical entity has gained attraction that encompasses the criteria of both asthma and COPD called Asthma COPD overlap syndrome (ACOS). Thus far, no universal guidelines have been established, therefore, making it problematic for physician to develop a successful treatment strategy for their patients. This review provides a brief description of ACOS including risk factors and treatments. A Medline/PubMED search was performed to find articles with “ACOS” as a heading.
Abnormal subcutaneous foreign body seen in chest radiography on checkup
Authors: Sookaromdee Pathum , Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: May 2022

Background

Chest radiography (CXR) is an important medicalinvestigation used worldwide. In health checkup, the CXR is usually used.

Materials

The summary of the clinical data during 1-year period(2017) from a Medical Center is done.

Result

The abnormal subcutaneous foreign body in chest wallcan be observed in 0.39%.

Conclusion

Several kinds ofsubcutaneous foreign body can be seen in CXR checkup.
Role of thoracic ultrasonography in diagnosis of different chest diseases
Authors: Darwish Amr A. , Bakr Ramadan M. , Agha Mohammed A. , Abdelaal Gehan A. , El-Kalashy Mai M.
Published: May 2022

Background

Thoracic ultrasonography (TUS) is a low-cost, noninvasive, practical, and rapid method for visualization of different respiratory disorders. Previous reports showed a high sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy (96.8%) of TUS in the diagnosis of different chest diseases.

Objective

The aims were to assess the diagnostic accuracy of chest ultrasound (US) in the diagnosis of different chest diseases and to compare its accuracy with currently available imaging techniques.

Patients and methods

A prospective study was conducted on 213 patients. The patients were categorized according to their respiratory disorders into five groups (parenchymal, pleural, vascular, airway disease, and diaphragmatic dysfunctions). Chest radiography, computed tomography, and TUS were done for each group and were compared together. US chest examination was done using gray-scale (B-mode) or time-motion mode (M-mode).

Results

In patients with pneumonia, the sensitivity of US and radiography was 97.5 and 90.6%, respectively. In interstitial group patients, the sensitivity of US and radiography was 95.7 and 100%, respectively. In patients with lung mass, the sensitivity of US and radiography was 88.2 and 94.1%, respectively. In patients with cavitary lesion, the sensitivity of US and radiography was 100 and 87.5%, respectively. The sensitivity of US in detecting pleural effusion was 100% with accuracy of 100%. However, chest radiography showed 93.1% sensitivity and accuracy in detecting pleural effusion. The sensitivity and accuracy of both US and chest radiography in detecting vascular diseases were the same.

Conclusion

TUS is a useful tool in the diagnosis of different respiratory disorders especially in the diagnosis of pleural and diaphragmatic disorders. In addition, US offers a number of advantages of being easily performed by clinicians at the point of care, inexpensive, and avoiding exposure to radiation.
Patterns, triggers, and predictors of relapses among children with steroid-sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, Abuja, Nigeria
Authors: Ademola Anigilaje E. , Ibraheem Ishola
Published: May 2022

Background

Childhood steroid-sensitive idiopathic nephrotic syndrome (SSINS) is plagued with relapses that contribute to its morbidity and the cost of treatment.

Patients and methods

This is a retrospective review of relapses among children with SSINS at the University of Abuja Teaching Hospital from January 2016 to July 2020. Triggers related to relapse incidents were noted. χ
2 test was deployed for predictors (factors at the first clinical presentations that associate with subsequent relapses) of relapses. Predictors with P values of less than 0.05 were considered significant, and 95% confidence intervals (CI) and odd ratio (OR) were described.

Results

A total of 60 patients with SSINS, comprising 52 (86.7%) males, aged 23 months to 18 years, with a mean age of 7.04±4.16 years, were studied. A total of 38 (63.3%) participants had 126 relapses, including infrequent relapses in 30 (78.9%) and frequent relapses in eight (21.1%). The commonest triggers were acute upper respiratory tract infections (68, 53.9%) and urinary tract infections in 25 (19.8%) relapses. In four (3.2%) relapses, no trigger was identified. The time-to-first relapse ranged 14–365 days, with a median time of 60 days. The significant predictors were hypertension (OR=3.4, 95% CI; 1.04–11.09, P=0.038), urinary tract infections (OR=9.9, 95% CI; 1.16–80.71, P=0.014), malaria fever (OR=8.0, 95% CI; 2.45–26.38, P<0.001), microhematuria (OR=4.9, 95% CI; 11.58–15.16, P=0.004), elevated serum creatinine (OR=12.3, 95% CI; 1.48–101.20, P=0.005), and hypercholesterolemia (OR=4.1, 95% CI; 1.35–12.63, P=0.011).

Conclusion

Although the pathogenesis of relapses remains unknown, it is prudent to consider relapse-specific preventive strategies against triggers and predictors of relapses in our setting.
Serum interleukin-18 and immunoglobulin E in chronic spontaneous urticaria and their relation to severity of the disease
Authors: Abdel-Bary Ahmed , Elnily Dalia , Soror Osama , Youssef Marwa
Published: May 2022

Background

Interleukin-18 (IL-18) is a proinflammatory cytokine that can induce either T helper 1 response or T helper 2 response. It may play an important role in either chronic inflammatory, autoimmune, or allergic diseases, but its role in chronic urticaria is still unclear. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) plays an essential role in type I hypersensitivity reaction.

Objective

To assess serum levels of IL-18 and IgE in patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) and their possible association with the clinical severity of the disease.

Patients and methods

A total of 30 patients with CSU were selected for this case–control study, in addition to 15 age-matched and sex-matched healthy individuals as controls. The severity of urticaria was assessed using urticaria activity score 7. Serum levels of IL-18 were measured using the ELISA technique. Serum IgE levels were measured using the electrochemiluminescence immunoassay technique.

Results

The mean serum level of IL-18 was significantly higher in patients with CSU (214.9±167.3 pg/ml) than in controls (115.6±121.1 pg/ml). Moreover, the mean serum level of IgE was significantly higher in patients with CSU (412.8±533.9 IU/ml) than in controls (74.67±55.73 IU/ml). A statistically significant correlation between clinical severity of urticaria and the serum level of either IL-18 or IgE was found.

Conclusion

IL-18 and IgE are involved in the pathogenesis of CSU and could be good and reliable markers for the evaluation of disease severity. Targeting IL-18 could be a novel treatment approach for patients with CSU.
Study of liver X receptor-alpha gene polymorphism (rs2279238) in a sample of Egyptian vitiligo patients
Authors: Taha Alsayeda Alsayed Ahmad , Mohamed Nagat Sobhy , Alsayed Eman Tayae , Ahmed Amany Gamal AbdelAziz
Published: May 2022

Background

Vitiligo is an acquired skin disorder that results from selective destruction of skin melanocytes. It is characterized clinically by the development of depigmented macules and patches. More than 150 genes have been identified to affect the pigmentation of the skin, hair, and eyes. Liver X receptor-α (LXR-α) expression is upregulated in the melanocytes of the perilesional skin as compared with the normal skin of vitiligo patients suggesting its possible contribution in vitiligo pathogenesis.

Objective

To study LXR-α gene polymorphism (rs2279238) in a sample of Egyptian vitiligo patients.

Patients and methods

This case–control study was conducted on 25 vitiligo patients aged from 12 to 50 years compared with 25 age- and sex-matched controls. LXR-α gene polymorphism (rs2279238) (C>T) detection was done by allelic discrimination using fluorogenic 5’ Nuclease assay.

Results

LXR-α gene polymorphism was significantly associated with vitiligo among Egyptian patients but is not correlated with either severity or activity of vitiligo.

Conclusion

LXR-α gene polymorphism may be associated with vitiligo as found in a sample of Egyptian patients.
Application of da Vinci robot and laparoscopy on repeat hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Yu Shuiping , Yuan Guandou , Lu Shiliu , Li Jiangfa , Tang Bo , Zhong Fudi , Su Huizhao , He Songqin
Published: May 2022

Background:

Repeat laparoscopic liver resection has been used safely and effectively on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, few studies have been performed on repeat HCC surgery by a da Vinci robot. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of the patients with repeat HCC treated using a da Vinci robot or laparoscopic system at a single centre.

Methods:

All of the patients with repeat HCC treated using a da Vinci robotic or laparoscopic system between April 2017 and April 2020 were included in this retrospective study.

Results:

There were 24 patients with a mean age of 56 years who underwent da Vinci robotic or laparoscopic surgery for treatment of repeat HCC who were included in this study. The operations lasted 152 ± 25 min and 142 ± 34 min. The average intraoperative blood loss was 284 ± 89 ml and 251 ± 92 ml. The average hospitalisation stay lasted 9 ± 2 days and 9 ± 3 days. The rates at which surgeons switched to open surgery were 9% and 23%. No serious perioperative or post-operative complications were encountered.

Conclusion:

Da Vinci robots can provide a precise dissection of the tissue under a perfect view. It is a technically feasible procedure for less rates at which surgeons switched to open surgery on repeat HCC.
Disseminated Secondary Erythema Migrans
Authors: Pathania Vikas , Sandhu Sunmeet , Vashisht Deepak , Sengupta Prashant
Published: May 2022

Lyme borreliosis is a multisystem disease transmitted by the bite of vector, Ixodes tick and caused by the strains of spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has listed it as a reportable disease since 1991. Although the three classical cutaneous manifestations are primary erythema migrans, borrelial lymphocytoma, and acrodermatitis chronica atrophicans, secondary disseminated erythema migrans is a rare presentation. Reported atypical erythema chronicum migrans (ECM) lesions include vesicles, erythematous papules, purpura, and lymphangitic streaks. We report a case of a female patient who was clinically, serologically, and histopathologically diagnosed as a case of Lyme disease (LD) with disseminated secondary erythema migrans with atypical edematous lesions. Only four confirmed cases of ECM have been reported in India before this report. The case highlights this atypical and rare presentation of LD in India.
Perception of the Effects of Fire Wood Usage on Rural Women’s Health in Ogun State Nigeria
Authors: Itunnu Wole-alo Felicia , Olubunmi Alokan Agnes , Kemisola Ogundele Esther
Published: May 2022

The study assessed the effects of firewood usage on rural women health in Ogun State. Samples of 128 respondents were randomly selected from four local government areas of Ogun State. Data were collected with the aid of structured questionnaire. Percentages were used for data analysis. Majority of the respondents were married (91%) with a mean age of 50 years. Most of the respondents (86.7%) used firewood for cooking, the preference of the utilization of firewood over other alternatives was due to non-availability of other sources (40%) and availability of firewood (33%). Some perceived health effects on the respondents were discomfort caused by the smoke from the firewood (𝑥 ̅= 2.81) and eyes irritation (= 2.53). The study recommended alternative energy sources that are with lesser health hazards be made readily available at subsidized rate in the rural areas since this was the major attractive driving force for the use of firewood.
Farmers’ Readiness to Adopt Social Media as Agro-Information Reception Tool During Covid-19 Pandemic in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Fasina O.O. , Tehinloju O.A. , Ikuerowo J.O.
Published: May 2022

This study examined farmers’ readiness to assess social media as agro-information reception tool in the study area. An interview guide was used in collecting data from 120 farmers who were randomly selected. Data collected were analysed with the aid frequency counts percentages and logit regression. The results showed that half of the respondents (50%) had primary education. About 90% were aware of whatsapp and 12.6% were aware of blogs, respectively. Education, farming experience, membership of farmers’ group and extension access were the variables that positively influence farmers’ readiness to assesssocial media as agro-information reception tool while respondents’ age negatively influence readiness to assess social media. Enlightenment programmes for farmers on the use of social media and an improved extension services to keep the farmers acquainted with the benefits of social media.
Food Vendors and School Management Compliance to Home Grown School Feeding Programme Implementation Module in Osun State, Nigeria
Authors: Thomas K.A. , Nwokocha J.C.
Published: May 2022

Compliance to National Home-Grown School Feeding Programme’s (NHGSFP) implementation module among food vendors and school management in Osun State was investigated. Four stage sampling procedure was used to select 144 respondents. Interview schedule was used to gather data from respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics (Chi-square and Pearson Product Moment Correlation). The mean household size was 5 (x̅= 5±2). All the food vendors and 76.4% of the school management were female with mean age of 36 and 39 ( x̅= 36±5 and x̅= 39±8), respectively. Vendors (65.3%) and school management (58.3%) had high knowledge of NHGSFP, while 52.8% of food vendors and 50.0% of the school management had favourable attitude towards NHGSFP. The major constraints were inadequate funding 2.34) and untimely payment (x̅= 1.74) and ranking 1st and 2nd, respectively. However, taking food home 2.10) was the major sharp practice reported. More than half (51.4%) of the respondents complied with NHGSFP implementation module. Food vendors’ (r=0.268) and school managements’ attitude towards NHGSFP (r = 0.241) were significantly related with compliance to NHGSFP implementation module. Compliance to NHGSFP implementation module was moderately high (55.6%). Sharp practices by both food vendors (r= -0.461) and managements (r = -0.439) were negatively significant to compliance. The compliance level observed was not very high enough for sustainability of the programme due to the various sharp practices and constraints faced by the programme. Hence, better modalities against sharp practices should be put in place as well as proper orientation of key actors in the programme.
Effectiveness of Cognitive Restructuring Counselling Technique in Managing Anxiety Among Couples with Infertility Challenges in Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Ishaka Yahaya
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the effectiveness of cognitive restructuring counselling technique in managing  anxiety among couples with infertility challenges in Gombe State, Nigeria. The population of this study was seventy-six (76) couples of reproductive age with infertility challenges that were registered and receiving infertility treatment at the two Government owned hospitals selected for this study. These are: Federal teaching hospital, Gombe and Specialist Hospital Gombe. Forty-two (42) patients accessing infertility treatment from Federal teaching hospital and thirty-four (34) patients accessing infertility treatment from specialist hospital Gombe (i.e. 42+34 = 76). Thirty-eight (38) couples were selected to participate in the study. The researcher employed quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test and control group design, in which selected couples were assigned to two experimental groups. The experimental group were treated with cognitive restructuring counselling tecnique while the control group didn’t receive any treatment. The treatments were carried out within eight weeks of counselling sessions. Group counselling method was employed in the study. Each of the subjects was administered with pre-test/post-test research instrument using Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) Two research objectives and two research hypotheses were formulated. The data collected were analyzed using dependent sample t-test to test hypothesis 1 and independent t-test was used to test hypothesis 2 at 0.05 level of significance. Results from data analysis revealed that cognitive restructuring counselling technique was effective in managing anxiety among couples with infertility challenges. It was also recommended that cognitive restructuring should be used in managing anxiety level of couples faced with infertility challenges in various health centres.
Impact of Principals’ Leadership Styles on Truancy Among Students of Public Secondary Schools in Zamfara State Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulhakeem U. Sidi , Hamza M. Abubakar , Suleman G. Danmaitaba
Published: May 2022

This study aimed at investigating impact of principal’s leadership styles on truancy among students of public secondary schools in Zamfara etropolis. Two objectives guide the conduct of this study. Descriptive survey design was adopted. The target population of the study consists of all the teachers and students in public secondary schools in Zamfara metropolis. Stratified sampling technique was employed in selecting 30 schools from two strata (Public and Private) Likewise, 160 teachers out of 1874 teachers and 320 students out of 13,789 students across 30 public secondary schools were selected using Krejcie and Morgan, (1971) table of determining the sample size required for the study. The instrument used for the study was self-structure questionnaire which was entitle “Perception of Principals Leadership Styles on Students Truancy Questionnaire in Senior Secondary Schools” (PPLSSTQSSS). The instrument was validated by two experts from the Department of Educational Foundations, Faculty of Education, Federal University of Kashere. In testing the reliability of the instrument pilot study was conducted in none of the sample schools not covered by the study, Cronbach Alpha of reliability was employed and a reliability coefficient index of 0.75 was obtained. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings of the study showed that truancy was a problem experienced in all the schools under study. Democratic leadership styles were popularly used by the principals in Zamfara metropolis. The various leadership styles employed by various principals had a great impact on truancy. Autocratic leadership style was found out to be associated with harshness and leaders who practice this style of leadership are always distant from teachers and students. The study concluded that truancy was caused by factors such as inability to cope with academic pressure, dislike for the school environment caused administration techniques used by school leadership, lack of school fees, sickness, problems related to family background. The study recommended awareness campaign among school administrators to enhance their understanding on the circumstances in which each leadership style is appropriate. The study also recommended wide adoption of democratic and charismatic leadership styles in curbing the rising cases of truancy among learners.
Perceived Causes of Infertility Among Married Adults in Kwara State, Nigeria
Authors: Ariyo N.O. , Alwajud-Adewusi M.B. , Odenike A.A. , Gbadamosi M.O.
Published: May 2022

Infertility is one of the major causes of marital discord with damaging condition that exposes couple to emotional, physical and financial stress. Therefore, this study aimed at investigating the perceived causes of infertility of married adults in Kwara State. The research design adopted for this study is descriptive survey method. The population of this study is all married adults in Kwara State while the target population comprised married adults in the seven selected Local Governments Areas from the three senatorial districts of Kwara State. 420 respondents were selected as the sample for the study. Proportional and simple random sampling techniques were employed by the authors to select the sample for this study. The instrument (questionnaire) used for this study was designed by the authors. Content validity of the instrument was ascertained, and the reliability of the instrument was established using test-retest method. The correlation of the two sets of scores using Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation yielded a co-efficient R=0.81. The data collected was analysed using t-test and Analysis of Variance at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that there were no significant differences on the perceived causes of infertility among married adults in Kwara state on the basis of age and gender. This study, therefore, recommended that Modern and assisted methods of conception such as intra-uterine insemination (IUT), Invitro fertilisation and embryo transfer (IVF/ET), gamete intra fallopian transfer (GIFT) should be encouraged by medical personnel and implemented by couples suffering from infertility. Counselling services should be organised regularly for couples to alleviate the impacts of infertility on the well-being of the couple.
Investigating The Status of Local Government Education Authority in Providing Quality Learning Environment in Gombe Local Government Area of Gombe State
Authors: Bappah A.
Published: May 2022

This study investigated the status of Local Government Education Authority in providing quality Learning Environment in Gombe Local Government Area; two objectives were used to guide the study. The study adopted survey research design, the population of the study comprised of 2,244 total number of teaching staff and head teachers in which 327 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. A four-point rating scale questionnaire consisting of 14 items were used in collection of data. Data collected were analyzed using mean (X) and Standard deviation (Std.) The findings of the study revealed that the physical learning environment in primary schools is not sufficiently provided which may affect the quality of teaching and learning in primary school education. It’s also indicated a disagreement in the opinions of teachers and head teachers in GLEA in providing quality aesthetic learning environment at primary school. The Study among others, recommended that The LGEA should be supported and fully involved in decision making and funding of primary education through collaborative effort among all education stakeholders in providing quality attractive learning environment for children not just a supervisory role.
Soft Skills Required of Business Education Graduates: Perception of Students and Lecturers of Colleges of Education in Oyo State
Authors: Oluwalola K. Felicia
Published: May 2022

The study was conducted to assess the level of students’ and lecturers’ perception to soft skills, identify the difference in the perception of students and lecturers in soft skills and as well identify the difference in the perception of respondents in various colleges of education on the soft skills required of Business Education graduates in Oyo state. Descriptive design of survey type was adopted. The target population for the study were the students and lecturers of Business Education department and two federal and state owned colleges of education in Oyo town were purposively sampled. Forty students in the department of Business Education were randomly selected from each of the three levels in the institutions and ten lecturers were equally selected from each school making a total of 240 students and 20 lecturers. Out of the 240 questionnaires administered, 237 were duly returned. Three research questions were answered and tested at 0.05 level of significance. A questionnaire measuring the perception of students and lecturers was used to gather data from the respondents. Methods of data analysis that were used included frequencies, percentages mean and independent sample t-test. Findings indicate that majority of the students and lecturers are highly perceived on the required soft skills for graduates of Business Education. However, the lecturers had more perception than the students probably due to their level of experience. It was recommended that self-development should be encouraged by the students, schools should introduce acquisition of skills to their curriculum and lecturers should also involve their students in solving uphill tasks in a bid to enhance their practical ability.
Effects of Multimedia Video Projection on Undergraduate Students’ Achievement and Retention in Quantitative Economics in the Universities in Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Egboka Patience , Aliyu H. Dalhatu , Ahmed Dahiru , Muntaka Tukur
Published: May 2022

This study was design to determine the effects of multimedia video projection on undergraduates’ students’ achievement and retention in quantitative Economics in Universities in Gombe State, Nigeria. Three research questions and two null hypotheses guided the study. Quasi-experimental research design specifying pretest posttest control group design was adopted for the study. The study was conducted in Federal University Kashere and Gombe State University, Gombe. Quantitative Economics Achievement Test (QEAT) designed by the researcher and validated three experts from Federal University, Kashere, Gombe State was the instrument used for the data collected for the study. The reliability coefficient of the instrument was determined to be 0.74 through Kudder-Richardson 20 (KR-20) statistics. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer research questions; while Analysis of Covariance was used to test the null hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The findings of the study revealed that multimedia projection approach is more efficacious in enhancing students’ achievement and retention in quantitative Economics than lecture method. There is no statically significant difference in achievement in Quantitative Economics by male and female students who were taught using multimedia video projection approach. Based on the findings, it was recommended that the use of multimedia projection should be encouraged in teaching Quantitative Economics in tertiary institutions and that is use should be popularized through workshops, seminars and conferences.
Impact of Teacher Demonstration Video On Polytechnic Students’ Achievement in Shorthand in Zamfara State
Authors: Shahid S. Anka , Aniah Anthony , Adamu Z. Evuti , Adeyeye Mercy
Published: May 2022

The study examined the effect of teacher demonstration video on Polytechnic students’ achievement in Shorthand in Zamfara State. A pretest-posttest quasi-experimental and control group design was used in the study. A sample size of 185 students was obtained from the two intact classes of the two polytechnics that were used for this study. The polytechnics were assigned to treatment and control groups through simple random selection. The instrument for data collection was Shorthand Achievement Test (SHAT). It was validated by 3 educational technology experts and 5 Shorthand lecturers. The instrument was later subjected to reliability test and the data was computed using Pearson product Moment Correlation. A coefficient value of (r) .75 was obtained indicating that the instrument is reliable for the study. Data gathered from the field was computed and used to answer the research questions using mean and standard deviation while hypotheses were tested using t-test. All the analyses were conducted using SPSS version 23. The findings of the study revealed that significant difference exists in the Shorthand achievement scores of polytechnic students exposed to teacher demonstration video and those in the control group. It also revealed that significant difference exists in the Shorthand achievement scores of male and female polytechnic students exposed to teacher demonstration video. Based on these outcomes, the researchers recommended amongst others that Shorthand lecturers should critically examine the need, suitability in use, easy in operation and the possible benefits which is attainable in the use of video instruction in his shorthand class before deciding to apply it in order to avoid futile efforts at the end of the lesson.
Assessing Determinants of Lecturers’ Utilization and Attitude Towards Open Educational Resources in Universities of North-East, Nigeria
Authors: Bello Ahmed , Nsofor C.C. , Falode O.C. , Adamu Z.E.
Published: May 2022

The study assessed the Determinants of Lecturers’ Utilization and Attitude Towards Open Educational Resources (OER) for Knowledge Sharing in Universities of North-East Nigeria. The population of the study was 632 lecturers drawn from Federal Universities of Northeast Nigeria. The sample of the study comprised of 338 lecturers purposively selected from three Federal Universities distributed within the three states (Adamawa, Bauchi and Borno State). The study adopted concurrent embedded mixed method research design in which four Quantitative and one qualitative (QUAN + qual) research questions guided the study. The instruments used for data collection are closed ended questionnaire and focus group interview protocol. The instruments were validated by experts and subjected to reliability test using Cronbach’s alpha. Mean (x) and standard deviation (SD) was used to answer research question one to four for quantitative variables. Thematic analysis was used to answer research question five for qualitative variables using Atlas ti. Version 9.1. The findings of the study revealed that Performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions variables collectively influence lecturers’ use of shared OER. The study recommended among others that the University management should build on the provisions of the construct by strengthening the culture of knowledge sharing on OER repository among faculties.
Assessment of Availability, Teachers’ Proficiency and Challenges of ICT Integration in Teaching Secondary School Mathematics and Science in Bauchi State, Nigeria
Authors: Dogo P. , Tyoor I.T. , Joseph M. , Sulai E.I. , Huseyn G. , Samaila Y.D.
Published: May 2022

The study assesses status of integration of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) in teaching mathematics and science at Public Senior Secondary School in Bauchi Central Educational zone of Bauchi State, Nigeria. The study was aimed to; find out types of available ICT facilities for teaching mathematics and science; establish teacher’s proficiency level of integration of ICT in teaching and learning of Mathematics and Science, and establish challenges faced in the integration of ICT facilities for teaching mathematics and science, Descriptive research design was used for the study. Non Proportional and Purposeful sampling were used for choosing fifty (50) teachers who formed the sample of the study. The sample size was taken from a target population of 250 (20%) mathematics and science teachers. Two instruments were used for data collection. Included were structured and open ended questionnaires and interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Findings revealed high percentage of teacher’s response on the availability of ICT facilities in the study schools, included were white board (74.5 %), laptops (68.6%), printers (56.9%), computer device (50.9%), smart board (50.1 %) and projectors (49.0%). Half (51.0%) of teachers reported internet service and scanning machine not functional. Few teachers (15.7%) reported computers and printers (11.7 %) not functional. Majority (44%) of mathematics and science teachers have a fair knowledge of using ICT facilities to present lesson. Result revealed teachers lack of workshop/seminar on ICT integration (88.2%), students’ ratio to ICT facilities (computers) (86.3%) and lack of time for teachers (58.6%) using ICT during lesson were major challenges. The implication of the study is that effective ICT integration can only be actualized if new initiatives are taken. Thus the study recommended that Mathematics and science teachers should be engaged on professional development training with emphasis on ICT integration in the classroom situation. Stake holders in education sectors and school administrators most ensure effective functions of available ICT facilities in secondary schools.
Teachers’ Pedagogical Competence as a Determinant of Students’ Motivation Towards Business Education in Federal College of Education (Technical) Gombe in North-East Nigeria
Authors: Adamu I. Alhaji , Mohammed H. Amin
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to determine teachers’ pedagogical competence as a determinant of students’ motivation towards business education, the study adopted qualitative research and the design used for the study was instrumental case study. The participants were final year undergraduate business education students. The sampling technique used was purposeful sampling in selecting six (6) participants, three from the students and three from the academic staff. The researcher with the help of one (1) research assistant conducted face to face interview using semi structured interview protocol, with few open-ended questions. Data collected were analyzed using thematic analysis for interview. The results revealed that teacher’ pedagogical competences as a determinant of students’ motivation towards business education required possession of knowledge of the subject matter, use of appropriate teaching methods and using of instructional materials in teaching and learning process. The results also revealed that teachers’ pedagogical competence as a determinant of students’ motivation towards business education required teacher-student positive relationship, use of positive reinforcement and incentives, and teacher personality to motivate students towards business education. Based on the findings, it was recommended that Government, National Commission for Colleges of education, and other stakeholders should consider professional teaching qualification as pre-requisite for the recruitment of teachers and to provide in-service training, seminars, and conferences, workshops for the teachers, to improve in student-teacher relationship, and use of positive reinforcement/incentives in order to motivate students toward business education.
Deciduous teeth stem cells, promising source of stem cells: narrative literature review
Authors:   Planalto Central Apparecido dos Santos University Centre – Uniceplac, Brasília, DF, Brazil., Couto Ana Luiza Maria Rodrigues , Freire Mirna de Souza ,   Planalto Central Apparecido dos Santos University Centre – Uniceplac, Brasília, DF, Brazil.
Published: May 2022

Among the most progressive types of medical-scientific research, the study with stem cells stands out. Stem cell therapy has emerged as an innovative model in the treatment of diseases and injuries, presenting numerous advantages, which guarantee it will reach the population in the future. The pulp of deciduous teeth, because it is a tissue rich in stem cells, is capable of producing different cell types and offers an easy and minimally invasive way to obtain stem cells. These cells can be isolated, cultured, and expanded in vitro, differentiated in vitro and in vivo into odontoblasts, chondrocytes, adipocytes, endothelial cells, and neural cells. In addition, they have low reactions or rejection after transplantation and may remain undifferentiated and stable after long-term cryopreservation. This study aimed to review the literature on stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) and their possible applications in clinical practice. A bibliographic survey was carried out considering full texts published between 2000 and 2021 in the PUBMED database. In this review, current knowledge about stem cells obtained from human exfoliated deciduous teeth, tissue engineering approaches that use SHED, and possible applications in clinical practice were addressed. When comparing SHED with stem cells from other sources, such as stem cells from permanent teeth (DPSC), bone marrow stem cells, and stem cells from the umbilical cord, it is concluded that SHED has a higher rate of proliferation and multiplication, without ethical or legal implications, representing a new approach in regenerative therapy, being a promising alternative treatment.
İnsansız Hava Araçlarında Kullanılan Turbo Dizel Bir Havacılık Motorunun Enerji, Ekserji ve Ekserjiekonomik Performansının Değerlendirilmesi
Authors: BALLİ Özgür
Published: May 2022

Bu çalışmada; enerji, ekserji ve eksergo-ekonomik analiz yöntemleri kullanılarak insansız hava araçları için kullanılan turbodizel bir havacılık motorunun performans doğrulaması yapılmıştır. Motorun enerji verimi %43.158, ekserji verimi ise %40.655 olarak bulunmuştur. Motorun yakıt enerjisi kayıp oranı %56.842 iken yakıt ekserji kayıp oranı %59.345 olarak hesaplanmıştır. Turbodizel motorun çevresel etki faktörü 1.460, ekolojik etki faktörü 2.460, ekolojik objektif fonksiyon değeri -227.173 MJ/h, ekserjetik sürdürebilirlik indeksi 0.685 ve sürdürülebilir verimlilik faktörü ise 1.685 olarak elde edilmiştir. Turbodizel motorun ekonomik ve eksergo-ekonomik analiz sonuçlarına göre; güç üretimi için toplam maliyet akışı 47.035 $/h ve üretilen gücün özgül ekserji maliyeti 0.095 $/MJ olarak hesaplanmıştır. Diğer yandan motorun yakıt maliyeti ile üretim maliyeti arasındaki bağıl maliyet artışı %248.655, sistemin eksergo-ekonomik faktörü %16.346 olarak bulunmuştur. Ayrıca bu çalışmada, turbodizel havacılık motoru ile piston-prop havacılık motorunun performans kriterleri de karşılaştırılmıştır. Turbodizel motorun tüm performans parametrelerinin, piston-prop motorun parametrelerinden çok daha iyi olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Les transitions socio-écologiques peuvent-elles changer l’agriculture? Quelques enseignements de la circulation internationale des normes en matière d’agroécologie
Authors: ARRIGNON Mehdi
Published: May 2022

Les transitions peuvent-elles changer l’agriculture? L’article se propose d’analyser le « plan français de transition agroécologique » lancé en 2012 et la circulation internationale des modèles en matière d’agroécologie. Il souligne en particulier en quoi le plan de transition agroécologique français a pu réutiliser des savoirs issus originellement de pays du Sud, originellement critiques à l’égard du modèle agro-productiviste dominant, pour en tirer certains enseignements. Dans la première partie, nous présentons le plan français, ses partis pris et influences, avant de souligner dans la deuxième partie de l’article les échanges Nord-Sud et certaines réinterprétations dont l’agroécologie a pu faire l’objet depuis le début des années 2000.
La transition écologique et sociale pour un changement de paradigme de la politique européenne d’aide au développement à destination de l’Afrique
Authors: BERTRAND Murielle
Published: May 2022

La transition écologique confronte à deux égards les fondements de l’aide au développement au point où sa légitimité est questionnée. Si tant est qu’elle est réalisée dans sa complétude, la transition écologique met en exergue l’incompatibilité des valeurs néolibérales avec les objectifs de protection de l’environnement, lesquels se trouvent confondus dans le concept de développement durable. Le « mimétisme », encouragé par les politiques de développement, « qui caractérise la formation des politiques publiques en Afrique » consiste en l’adhésion à un système économique qui compromet la résilience de l’humanité aux bouleversements écologiques. La transition écologique ne requiert pas une telle transposition, mais plaide pour un dialogue social et écologique avec les populations bénéficiaires. Elle nécessite une prise en compte des particularismes des territoires en mettant en avant les savoir-faire et les expertises locaux. Notre étude juridique se propose de questionner l’aide au développement européenne dans ses fondements notionnels et institutionnels à l’aune des présupposés de la transition écologique et de définir une politique de développement qui contient de manière intrinsèque le principe d’un dialogue avec les populations bénéficiaires pour l’avènement d’un modèle de penser et d’être social et écologique. Des notions tirées de réflexions doctrinales sur la société internationale ou la gouvernance écologique peuvent être valablement mobilisées afin de mener à bien cette étude.
L’Afrique aussi et encore réifiée à partir de l’environnement
Authors: SARR Serigne Momar
Published: May 2022

À l’heure où l’Anthropocène se trouve à l’épreuve de l’adaptation et à l’interface de l’humain et du non-humain, la géopolitique des savoirs en contexte postcolonial frise la domination sous une forme ignorée dans le cadre de l’environnement. Cette contribution vise donc à montrer que l’Afrique est désormais réifiée à partir de l’environnement. Quoique le colonialisme dès ses débuts nous laisse l’apercevoir, c’est à partir de l’écologie décoloniale dans les Amériques que cet encore inconnu apparaît plus clairement et informe d’ailleurs de la crise écologique visible dans le dernier tiers du XXe siècle. Ainsi, l’accommodement de l’Afrique aux instruments internationaux de gouvernance de l’environnement n’est qu’un prolongement de sa dépendance structurelle qui entretient des logiques d’extraversion plutôt pernicieuses pour les cultures locales. Partant, l’environnement est un siège de biais portés à l’encontre de l’Afrique. Cette vision à son encontre s’ajoute à la commotion épistémologique subie au même titre que les commotions économiques, politiques et culturelles. Enfin, s’il est établi que l’Afrique subit plus les effets du changement climatique notamment provoqués par l’activité industrielle et domestique du Nord, on comprend mal les appels aux transitions écologiques et énergétiques, si ce n’est, à cause de sa position déjà marginale dans le système international, l’accomplissement d’une tâche-monde qui permettrait au capitalisme de tenir davantage.
Pemrograman Sistem Arduino Nano dan Arduino Mega Menggunakan Ladder Logic
Authors: Wardhana Firza , Pradana Sunu , Karim Khairuddin
Published: May 2022

PLC merupakan salah satu alat kendali yang dirancang untuk mengendalikan dan mengatur jalannya suatu proses industri secara otomatis. Salah satu bahasa yang umum dipakai untuk memrogram PLC adalah ladder logic. Untuk dapat melakukan pemrograman dengan baik, diperlukan waktu yang cukup untuk mempelajari dengan cara mencoba langsung di sistem alat. Tetapi harga perangkat PLC industrial cukup mahal, sehingga menyulitkan mahasiswa untuk dapat dengan leluasa mempelajarinya. Dengan demikian diperlukan suatu cara agar mahasiswa dapat berlatih secara intensif tanpa terkendala faktor biaya yang mahal. Salah satu upaya adalah dengan mencoba memanfaatkan sistem Arduino Nano dan Arduino Mega yang dapat diprogram dengan ladder logic melalui perangkat lunak Outseal Studio dan LDmicro. Dalam makalah ini disampaikan bagaimana sistem Arduino yang lebih murah dapat dimanfaatkan untuk mempelajari ladder logic. Pengujian dilakukan dengan simulasi dasar sistem praktikum airblast, milling, pompa air dan ATS, dengan hasil sistem bekerja sesuai dengan deskripsi dan program yang diterapkan. Alat yang dihasilkan ini dapat menjadi alternatif untuk pembelajaran mahasiswa.