bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical investigation of fractional-order wave-like equation
Authors: Al-Sawalha M. Mossa , Shah Rasool , Nonlaopon Kamsing , Ababneh Osama Y.
Published: December 2022

The two approaches to solving nonlinear Caputo time-fractional wave-like equations with variable coefficients are examined in this study. The Homotopy perturbation transform method and the Yang transform decomposition method are the names of these two techniques. Three separate numerical examples are provided to demonstrate the effectiveness and precision of the suggested methods. The results were acquired to demonstrate the effectiveness and power of the two approaches, providing estimates with better precision and closed form solutions. The solutions to these kinds of equations can be found using the suggested methods as infinite series, and when these series are in closed form, they provide the exact solution. The suggested techniques have been demonstrated to be effective and efficient in their application. Three numerical examples are used to examine the methods accuracy and effectiveness.
The use of Analytical Hierarchy Process in sensor-based networks for security-aware congestion control
Authors: Pandey Divya , Kushwaha Vandana
Published: December 2022

Network congestion may occur naturally or intentionally caused by selfish nodes. Existing congestion control techniques designed by researchers for sensor-based networks have primarily focused on natural modes of congestion occurrence and ignored malevolent nodes' potential for purposeful congestion-like scenario creation. In light of this fact, a security attack-resistant congestion control method that takes into account both possible sources of congestion in sensor nodes has been developed. So firstly, a trust-based technique has been developed to get rid of selfish nodes' intentional attempts to cause congestion. After the elimination of malicious nodes, a congestion avoidance method has been applied which tries to prevent the natural way of congestion occurrence. For this purpose, we have applied a multi-criteria decision-making method as there are many factors responsible for congestion occurrence. The remaining energy, node potential value, node load factor, and traffic burst rate have been considered as decision factors. Simulation results show that our Security Aware Congestion Control technique using the AHP method (SACC-AHP) outperforms the existing relevant techniques LEACH, TCEER, TASRP, CARA and SACC in terms of energy efficiency, security, packet delivery ratio and network lifetime.
Le cadavre accusateur dans le procès du XIIIe au XVIIIe siècle en Occident : de la preuve révélée à la preuve raisonnée
Authors: Akopian Astrid
Published: December 2022

Réceptacle de nombreuses croyances, le corps est perçu en Occident médiéval comme un « mode d’expression extérieur (foris) des mouvements intérieurs (intus) et invisibles de l’âme, des états psychiques, des émotions et de la pensée elle-même ». De ce fait, il occupera une place singulière dans les procédures criminelles, comme le montre l’ordalie du cercueil ou cruentatio. À partir du XIIIe siècle, il n’est en effet pas rare d’interroger la dépouille de la victime, afin de découvrir l’identité du meurtrier : selon la croyance populaire, le corps, animé par l’âme criant vengeance, se mettrait à saigner en présence du coupable. Le cadavre revêt dès lors une dimension sociale, juridique et fait la liaison entre l’ici-bas et l’au-delà. Malgré le mouvement de rationalisation touchant l’ensemble de l’Occident et le déclin progressif des ordalies, des témoignages mettent en évidence une survivance de la cruentatio au moins jusqu’au XVIIIe siècle. Cet appel au cadavre va perdre au fur et à mesure sa dimension providentielle pour constituer un élément probatoire dans les procédures judiciaires. Cette pratique, brouillant les frontières entre mystère et science, nous permettra de nous intéresser à la fonction du cadavre dans le procès : dévoiler une vérité tant révélée que raisonnée.
Les évolutions juridiques de la procréation médicalement assistée en Chine contemporaine : politique, genre et parenté
Authors: HOU Renyou
Published: December 2022

Le présent article1 porte sur les évolutions politiques et juridiques en ce qui concerne le droit d’accès aux techniques de procréation médicalement assistée en Chine contemporaine, et plus particulièrement, sur trois études de cas : l’interdiction de la PMA et de la congélation d’ovocytes pour les femmes célibataires ; les polémiques sur l’accès à la pratique de la GPA ; le droit de garde et de transfert d’embryons congelés pour les couples hétérosexuels infertiles. À partir d’une analyse des jugements dans les murs et hors les murs, cet article visera à esquisser le paysage actuel des pratiques de procréation médicalement assistée en Chine et à proposer des pistes de réflexion sur les tendances d’évolution en cette matière dans un contexte où l’augmentation du taux de fécondité devient de nos jours une des préoccupations majeures de l’État chinois. Les évolutions démographiques pourraient conduire à un assouplissement des normes juridiques et conduire in fine à une pluralisation des formes de la parenté.
Le poids de la piété. L’intégrité corporelle des prêtres romains au sens du ius sacrum
Authors: Evêque Ralph
Published: December 2022

Pénétrant sur le terrain des Disability Studies/Culture du handicap, nous nous questionnons au sujet de la nécessité de l’intégrité physique des prêtres romains au sens du ius sacrum. Ce questionnement doit être analysé en termes d’orthopraxie et de pureté. Il nous faut distinguer les sacerdotes romains selon qu’ils sont des « prêtres statues »c’est-à-dire des incarnations physiques de la divinité qu’ils servent ou de simples « maîtres du sacré ». Les premiers doivent être parfaits physiquement, que ce soit lors de leur entrée en fonction ou tout au long de l’exercice de leur dignité. Cette intégrité physique totale est à la fois nécessaire pour garantir la bonne exécution et la pureté des rituels religieux, et aussi – et surtout – en raison du fait que les prêtres de cette catégorie sont assimilés aux Dieux dont ils doivent entretenir le culte. En ce qui concerne les « maîtres du sacré », ces derniers sont probablement choisis sur la base d’une condition physique suffisamment bonne pour assurer l’orthopraxie. En-dehors de cette exigence a minima, nos certitudes deviennent plus floues et l’on peut penser que les Romains procédaient au cas par cas. En cours de charge, les « maîtres du sacré »devaient conserver les qualités physiques garantissant la bonne exécution des rites, faute de quoi, ils risquaient de devoir se faire remplacer.
Neutron star event horizons
Authors: Cole Martin T.
Published: December 2022

New physical evidence of the compressibility of neutrons has supported a reappraisal of how neutron stars transition into black holes, taken from the perspective of an internal observer. After comparing observational evidence with relativistic models, it is concluded that, at least
nonrotating isolated black holes are better termed as black stars, which fit a continuum of increasingly massive neutron stars that become invisible once they exceed a critical mass, suggested as 5 M⊙. Beyond this mass, two event horizons develop concurrently, separating
to form a photon trap that exists between the inner horizon and the outer horizon. This inner horizon (below the surface) avoids the formation of a real singularity and is apparently ≤ 6.75 km radius, while the outer horizon is ≥ 6.75 km radius,
confirmed as 50% of the Schwarzschild radius. The mathematical singularity that is apparent to an external observer in general relativity may be an illusion. Our methodology also shows how gravitational redshift may inform the mass and surface radius of a neutron star.
New type of motion to visualize the Copenhagen interpretation
Authors: Yanchilina Firyuza , Yanchilin Vasily L.
Published: December 2022

The Copenhagen interpretation of quantum mechanics contains a fundamental refuse to visualize quantum processes, so as not to conflict with common sense. The lack of visualization creates a problem in understanding quantum mechanics. We are exploring a new type of motion, which has
not been previously considered either in physics or in mathematics. This type of motion makes it possible to correctly describe and visualize the bizarre quantum processes, including quantum jumps, nonlocality, quantum entanglement, wave-particle duality, and so on. We also made some simple
figures of these quantum processes using a new type of movement. Visualization of quantum processes will help to better understand quantum mechanics not only for researchers and students but also for lay readers interested in quantum physics.
Conductivity Modification of ZnO NRs Films via Gold Coating for Temperature Sensor Application
Authors: Faisal Abdulqader D. , Khalef Wafaa K. , Salim Evan T. , Alsultany Forat Hamzah , Wahid M.H.A.
Published: December 2022

Zinc oxide nanorods zinc oxide nanowire has been deposited on quartz employing a hydrothermal method. The ZnO nanoroad as a seed layer were prepared for the growth process using the drop-casting method. The zincoxide nanomaterials produced were characterized by UV–Visible spectrophotometers, x-ray diffraction, Scanning electron microscopy ,. The crystal structure was calculated from the XRD data and it was confirmed the growth of wurtzite crystalline crystal structures of ZnO NRs. The SEM images revealed high-density nanowires were grown via drop cast coated seed layer. The bandgap in the ZnO NRs film was found to be 3.28 eV. This result was confirmed the formation of ZnO nanostructure. The thermal and electrical properties of ZnO NRs were measured also and analyzed. The conductivity of the ZnO NRs film was modified with the addition of gold nanoparticles using the sputtering technique. These modified films were promising and give an optimized temperature sensor performance.
Effect of Zr Concentration on the Microstructure and Mechanical Performance of Porous Ti-Zr System by Powder Metallurgy
Authors: Karakurt Eyyup Murat , Yan Huang , Kaya Mehmet , Demirtaş Hüseyin , Çakmak Ömer
Published: December 2022

In this study, porous binary Ti-(x)Zr alloys of nominal Zr contents (x=10, 20 and 30 at. %) with differing porosities were manufactured, using powder metallurgy with compaction conducted under a pressure of 300MPa and sintering at 1200 °C for 6 h. A space holder agent was employed to control the general porosity. The microstructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersed spectroscopy. The phase constitution was done by X-ray diffractometer. Uniaxial compressive tests were performed to determine the mechanical behaviors. Microstructural studies revealed macro/micro pores generated were mostly irregularly shaped with a uniform pore size distribution in all Ti-(x)Zr (at. %) alloys. The finer microstructure was obtained with increasing Zr contents. The mechanical performances of the porous Ti-(x)Zr (at. %) binary systems were strongly influenced by Zr and general porosity.
Effect of Different C3A Content on Rheological Parameters in Paste Mixtures
Authors: Karakuzu Kemal , Kobya Veysel , Mardani Ali , Felekoğlu Burak , Ramyar Kambiz
Published: December 2022

C3A content of cement is of great importance in connection with the fresh and early age mechanical properties of cementitious systems. In this study, the effects of different C3A content on the static and dynamic yield stress and viscosity values of paste mixtures were examined. Consequently, the use of polycarboxylate ether-based water reducing admixture (PCE) up to a certain dosage affected adversely the rheological characteristics of the mixtures. The dispersion effect, which increased with the increment of the PCE dosage, increased the hydration rate of C3A by increment its contact with water by dispersing it. Therefore, dynamic yield stress and viscosity were adversely affected by the increment in PCE dosage in high C3A-containing mixtures, while rheological parameters improved after a certain dosage in low C3A ones.
Do Patients Diagnosed with Schizophrenia and their Biological Parents have Concurrent Signs Suggestive of Marfan’s Syndrome? A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Saneja Kuldeep , Harshe Devavrat , Halder Ankit , Ravindran Navna Panchami , Harshe Gurudas
Published: December 2022

Background:

The prevalence of Marfan’s syndrome (MFS) is 2–3/10,000 people, whereas the prevalence of schizophrenia is 100/10,000 people. Although existing literature does not have robust scientific evidence to support such an association, the possibility of such should be explored because patients suffering from MFS do have higher degree of psychiatric comorbidities than the general population.

Materials and Methods:

The cross-sectional study randomly recruited 50 patients with schizophrenia and both their biological parents. All patients and controls were examined clinically for mental status examination, ophthalmological evaluation with refraction and slit-lamp examination, anthropometric evaluation for skeletal deformities, and two-dimensional echocardiographic assessment.

Results:

All the patients had a normal upper segment/lower segment ratio, arm span/height span, slit-lamp examination results, refraction, and aortic root Z score. There was no significant difference in anthropometric measurements and Z scores between genders and between patients and control groups.

Conclusion:

The study found no co-occurrence of marfanoid features in schizophrenic patients and their biological parents.
Combined Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Serum Neutrophil Elastase
Authors: Tahseen Rabia , Parvez Mohammad , Kumar G. Sravan , Jahan Parveen
Published: December 2022

Background:

Asthma is a chronic obstructive airway disease, associated with an altered leukocyte population in the airways as well as in blood circulation with dysregulated immune responses. Limited studies are available that suggest the role of neutrophils and their derived markers in asthma severity, however, no reports exist on the combined effect.

Methods:

To examine these markers' individual and combined influence, we recruited a total of 92 individuals, 60 asthmatics (30 mild and 30 moderate) and 32 nonasthmatic healthy controls from South India. Absolute neutrophil count (ANC) and neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were obtained from the complete blood count, and serum neutrophil elastase (sNE) was estimated through ELISA.

Results:

A significant variation in the means of ANC, NLR, and sNE was observed between asthma patients and healthy controls, whereas mild and moderate asthmatics demonstrated the difference in only neutrophil derivates (NLR and sNE). The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis revealed NLR as an excellent diagnostic marker (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.79, cutoff = 1.51, Sn = 95, Sp = 65.53, P = 0.0001), whereas sNE has an excellent diagnostic and prognostic capacity (AUC = 0.92, cutoff = 14.27, Sn = 81.67, Sp = 90.63, P = 0.0001 and AUC = 0.86, cutoff = 18.82, Sen = 80, Spe = 83.33, P = 0.0001). No correlation was noted between NLR and sNE, signifying their independent control on asthma severity. The additive influence of NLR and sNE was noted when analyzed together in a Combination of NLR and sNE (CNN). CNN-1 score exhibited a 5-fold and CNN-2 19-fold increased risk of asthma severity.

Conclusion:

Based on the present findings, it appears that CNN may emerge as a single predictive marker in asthma prognosis. This is the first study of its kind projecting the potentiality of CNN that needs to be tested in a large cohort as the limitation of the current study is the sample size.
Quantification of Punicalagin in Pomegranate Peels from High-performance Thin-layer Chromatography
Authors: Gadkari Pooja , Daharwal Sanjay J.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Punicalagin is the main phenolic compound present in pomegranate (Punica
granatum), it possesses various kinds of activities which is very essential as a dietary supplement, herbal supplements, or nutraceuticals are widely available in the market and are used clinically for various therapeutic activities, in the recent years, especially in the pandemic period of COVID-19. Hence, it is necessary to standardize herbal medicines for quality control, quantitative analysis for purity, and routine analysis. The punicalagin shows potential antiviral activity against the SARS-COV-2 virus, the literature review reveals that punicalagin is the area of interest during the recent research studies, and the present work deals with the quantitative analysis of punicalagin from high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) in marketed herbal preparation and the in-house preparation.

Methods:

The method development and quantitative analysis of punicalagin in pomegranate are developed using the solvent system chloroform: ethyl acetate: formic acid (4:3:3 v/v/v), and the method is successfully developed.

Results:

The punicalagin is quantified at 257 nm, acid (4:3:3). The content found in the various samples in PGGO is 3.207 mg, in PGBB is 1.257 mg, in PGNV is 1.743 mg, in PGWE is 807.6μg, in PGDF is 835.2 μg, and in in-house is 867.2 μg of punicalagin, from 1 g of each sample.

Conclusion:

The method was successfully developed, but there was no method developed for punicalagin in HPTLC, this is the novel approach we have done, and the method can be used for routine analysis.
Impact assessment of cadmium chloride on human cell lines and yeast knockout strains
Authors: Mousa Shimaa A.A. , Haggran Abd El-Hamid A. , El-Kawokgy Tahany M.A. , Abo El-Kheir Zakia A. , Sabry Shadia M.H. , Rashad Shimaa E.
Published: December 2022

Background

Cadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal that contributes to pollution in the environment. Cd intoxication can lead to diseases in the liver, kidneys, and lungs, among other organs. The liver is the primary organ affected by Cd overdose.

Objective

To evaluate the cytotoxic and genotoxic responses of cadmium chloride (CdCl2) on three different human cell lines and four different genotypes of yeast knockout strains.

Materials and methods

The effects of different concentrations of CdCl2 on cell viability in hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), lung cancer (A549), and normal lung cell carcinoma (Wi38) were investigated systematically using the MTT method. Moreover, flow cytometry was used to assess cell cycle arrest using propidium iodide (PI) staining and to quantify apoptotic cell death using PI staining and Annexin V/PI staining, respectively. The gene expression of p53, casp3, and Bcl-2 was measured using qRT-PCR. The Comet methodology was used to indicate DNA damage of yeast knockout strains.

Results and conclusion

The MTT assay revealed that CdCl2 was highly potent against hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2), lung cancer (A549), and normal lung cell lines (Wi38) (IC50=3.12, 28.81, 191.14 μg/ml). These findings showed that CdCl2 reduced therapeutic efficacy in malignant cells at relatively low concentrations compared with nonmalignant cells, as well as confirmed the antitumor effect of the metal. CdCl2-damaged A549 cells revealed a significant increase in arrest of cell cycle in ‘S’ phases, and then apoptosis increased. Subsequently, when A549 cells were treated with a higher dosage of CdCl2, the gene expression of p53 and casp3 genes was upregulated, whereas Bcl-2 was downregulated. CdCl2 revealed its genotoxic activity at different concentrations of 10, 25, 50 μg/ml. MRE11, CLN1 and ZRC1 genes exhibited marked genotoxic effects, while MMT1 gene generated modret genotoxicity of yeast knockout strains. The Comet assay revealed that yeast cells were more responsive, which was indisputably demonstrated.
Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive radiograph analysis of biodeteriorative metabolites produced by Aspergillus species
Authors: Elnahas Marwa O. , Sheir Donia H. , Amer Osama , El Hagrassi Ali M.
Published: December 2022

Background and objectives

Fungal deterioration of cultural heritage is a major problem that causes physical and chemical damage as well as esthetic alteration. In the current research, fungal species that exist on a brick sample obtained from Egyptian historical places were isolated and identified. Moreover, various metabolic products produced by the isolated fungal species were detected, which may play an important role in the deterioration of many historical buildings.

Materials and methods

Various fungi existing on brick samples collected from an Egyptian historical place were identified phenotypically and then confirmed molecularly based on the 18 S rDNA technique. The metabolites found in the chloroform extract of the isolated fungi were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Quantitative mineralogical analysis of the deteriorated brick was studied by radiograph diffraction. Moreover, scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive radiograph was employed to identify the mineral compositions and surface structural morphology of the collected brick sample.

Results and conclusion

Three fungi showed the highest occurrence and were identified as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus terreus, and Aspergillus flavus. The metabolites found in the chloroform extract of the three fungi were detected by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, which showed that 5­octadecene, (E) was common among A. niger, A. terreus, and A. flavus; nonadecane and E­15­heptadecenal were common between A. niger and A. flavus; α­cadinol, tetradecane, and hexadecane were common between A. niger and A. terreus; and trans­caryophyllene, α­humulene, tau­muurolol, and octadecane were common between A.
terreus and A. flavus. In addition, there was a presence of other hydrocarbons and various organic acid esters that play a vital role in the brick deterioration. Moreover, radiograph diffraction and scanning electron microscopy-energy-dispersive radiograph results showed that the brick sample contains Si, Fe, Ca, and Al, with small amounts of Na, Mg, and Cl. The fungal hyphae penetrating the brick sample were also detected. Our results demonstrate that fungi existence could result in physical deterioration by extending their hyphae through the brick pores resulting in stress. Fungi could also lead to chemical deterioration due to the production of different acids and acid derivatives that cause the brick demineralization via chelation of various metal. In addition, the production of various aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons by the fungi could play an important role in the deterioration process.
Concised 9-Year Data of Cancer Patient's Body Mass Index: An Institutional Study
Authors: Lavanya Lithika M. , Mukesh S , Sathya M , Tejaswi Poorna Chandra
Published: December 2022

Background:

Around 4% of all new adult cancer cases were attributed to high body mass index (BMI). The proportion of cancer cases attributed to high BMI varies considerably, ranging from 0.4% to 8.2%. Developing countries like India have also shown a change in the prevalence of obesity over the past decade, presently accounting for 15% of the world's obesity. These temporal and geographical variations were the basis to conduct this study on the BMI of cancer patients at our institute.

Aims:

To analyze the BMI of cancer patients at our institute and record the prevalence of high BMI in various cancers.

Subjects and Methods:

The height and weight of histologically proven cancer patients, treated between August 2010 and July 2019, were retrospectively obtained and BMI was calculated.

Statistical Analysis:

The Chi-square test was used as a test of significance for qualitative data. A P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant after assuming all the rules of statistical tests.

Results:

Among the 2057 patient's analyzed, 32.9% were underweight, 48.1% had normal BMI, 13.9% were overweight and 5.2% were obese. Only 4 out of 31 cancers had an average of 12.2% of obese patients and the rest of the cancers had <10% of obese patients. On subset analysis, only breast cancer showed a significantly higher proportion of obese patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

This study shows the importance of analyzing and documenting institution-wise BMI in cancer patients to develop an individualized holistic approach toward improving patients' nutritional status.
Yoga and attention
Authors: Yadav Kanchan , Yadav Arti , Singh Sandeep
Published: December 2022

In modern times, people are suffering from numerous types of difficulties. Stress and mental problems have become part of one's life. Excessive use of mobile phones, other electronic devices, and drug intake has caused many cognitive and mental problems. Attention, memory, and cognitive functions are affected by electronic and digital devices. Previous studies have shown that yoga can reduce stress and anxiety and improve cognitive functions such as attention and memory. The patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome search strategy was used to identify the keywords. Using the key words “yoga and attention,” 285 studies were identified from three databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct) and a search engine (Google Scholar). For discussion, 18 studies were included in the review. There was a wide range of age groups where the effectiveness of yoga on attention had been researched. This systematic review also revealed that attention in children also depends on memory development and anxiety. The particular study on the systematic reviews showed the high effectiveness of yoga, yogic exercises, mindfulness, and other yogic techniques on the level of attention among children. The study also revealed the coexistence of attention with memory development.
Suryanamaskar performed for a shorter duration matches the exercise intensity of a regular physical education session in adolescent children
Authors: Shimpi Apurv P. , Shetye Jaimala Vijay , Kewlani Meenakshi Sureshlal
Published: December 2022

Context:

Adolescent children are provided with lesser exercise duration and intensity due to academic priorities.Suryanamaskar(SN) may be a time-saving solution for their fitness enhancement.

Aim:

To determine the duration and number of SN required by adolescent children to match the exercise intensity of their regular physical education (PE) session.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-over study was conducted on 50 children, both genders, with a mean age of 13.9 ± 0.7 years, by a simple random sampling process. Their pulse rate (PR), respiratory rate (RR), and rate of perceived exertion (RPE) were measured pre- and immediately post participation in their routine PE session. After 24-h washout period, participants performed slow 12-step SN to match the PE session RPE post which their PR, RR, and number of SN performed were measured. Furthermore, their weekly duration of involvement in PE was documented. The PR, RR, and duration of PE/SN were compared using unmatchedt-test with α set at ≤0.05 at 95% confidence interval.

Results:

Adolescent children achieved RPE of 1.9 ± 1.4 post a 33.0 ± 9.0 min PE session which was matched in 9.4 ± 2.3 min of SN session (p< 0.05) at a similar PR (p= 0.25) and RR (p= 0.08). These children were found to be engaged in 75.6 ± 20.3 min of PE activity/week.

Conclusion:

A 9-min session consisting of nine SN matches the exercise intensity of a routine 33-min PE session in adolescent children.
Distributed function estimation: Adaptation using minimal communication
Authors: Szabó Botond , van Zanten Harry
Published: December 2022

We investigate whether in a distributed setting, adaptive estimation of a smooth function at the optimal rate is possible under minimal communication. It turns out that the answer depends on the risk considered and on the number of servers over which the procedure is distributed. We show that for the

L_\infty

-risk, adaptively obtaining optimal rates under minimal communication is not possible. For the

L_2

-risk, it is possible over a range of regularities that depends on the relation between the number of local servers and the total sample size.
Anémie ferriprive compliquée par une thrombose porte au cours de la pancréatite chronique : une observation clinique inhabituelle au Madagascar
Authors: Ernestho-ghoud Indretsy Mahavivola , Soilihi Moustafa Abdou , Narindra Ny Ony , Rajaonarison Lova Hasina , Ahmad Ahmad
Published: December 2022

La thrombose porte est rarement associée à l’anémie ferriprive au cours de la pancréatite chronique. Dans cet article, nous discutons d’une possible interaction entre la thrombose porte et l’anémie ferriprive survenue chez un homme de 56 ans porteur d’une pancréatite chronique, admis pour une douleur abdominale aiguë. Le scanner abdominal avait visualisé une thrombose porte associée à une pancréatite chronique. La seule anomalie biologique mise en évidence était une l’anémie ferriprive.

English title: Iron deficiency anemia complicated by portal thrombosis in chronic pancreatitis: an unusual case report from Madagascar

Portal thrombosis associated with iron deficiency anemia in chronic pancreatitis has been rarely reported. In this paper, we discuss possible interactions between portal thrombosis and iron deficiency anemia occurring in a 56 years-old man having chronic pancreatitis, who presented acute abdominal pain at admission. The abdominal CTscan showed portal thrombosis and chronic pancreatitis. The only biological abnormality highlighted was iron deficiency anemia.

Keywords: Portal thrombosis, Iron deficiency anemia, Chronic pancreatitis, Madagascar
Cytoarchitecture of greater cane rat (Thryonomys swinderianus) habenulae and mammillary body
Authors: Taidinda Tashara Gilbert , Funmilayo Eniola Olopade , James Olukayode Olopade
Published: December 2022

This study was conducted to investigate expression of neurons, glia and connective tissue markers in the habenulae and mammillary body of the Greater  Cane Rat (GCR) using histological and immunohistochemical techniques. Four apparently healthy males GCR obtained from Lagos Nigeria were used for  this experiment. The brains were harvested after perfusion, carefully dissected and post-fixed in 10% neutral-buffered-formalin (NBF) at 40C for 48 hours.  Subsequently, tissue sections were prepared and stained using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E), Cresyl-violet, ionized calcium-binding-adapter  molecule 1 (Iba1; microglia), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP; astrocytes), neuronal nuclei (NeuN; neurons) and collagen type 1 (Collagen1) antibodies.  H&E and Cresyl-violet staining showed the neuronal nuclei and their fibres in the habenulae, mammillary body, and pial capsule that surround the  mammillary body ventrally. Astrocytes in the habenulae showed positive immunoreaction to anti-GFAP while the mammillary body revealed expression of  perivascular astrocytes and capsular astrocytes. Also, in the mammillary body, the perivascular microglia and meningeal microglia in the pial capsule  showed immunopositive reaction to anti-Iba1 while the fibres within blood vessels and capsule were immunopositive to collagen type 1 antibody in the  same structure. This work has provided the first cytoarchitectural features and clear description of expression of these specific markers in habenulae and  mammillary body in the GCR, which are similar to other rodents but with slight variations.
TBX 5 gene mutation analysis among Tanzanian children with congenital heart diseases using high-resolution melting assays
Authors: Suluba Emmanuel , Masaganya James , Liang Wenjia , Masala Mwinyi , Mbugi Erasto , Mselle Teddy , Majani Naizihijwa , Kubhoja Sulende , Mutayoba Benezeth M. , Shuwei Liu
Published: December 2022

Early cardiac development is governed by transcription factor genes. TBX5, a T-box transcription factor gene, plays an important role in the development  of the second heart field during cardiac septation by promoting cell cycle progression through the enhancement of Cdk6 and hedgehog signaling  pathways. TBX5 binds to the promoter region of genes, enhancing the expression of alpha cardiac myosin heavy chain 6 (MYH6), which is a predominant  isoform found in human cardiac tissue. TBX5 gene mutations are postulated to cause congenital heart diseases. A casecontrol TBX5 mutational analysis  was performed to provide insight into the etiology of sporadic congenital heart diseases in our setting. We used a magnetic induction cycler (mic-PCR),  which is a next-generation tool for polymerase chain reaction-high resolution melting assays, to detect mutations in children with sporadic isolated  congenital heart diseases. A retrospective casecontrol study was conducted at the Jakaya Kikwete Cardiac Institute. The peripheral blood samples were  collected, and DNA was extracted using the Quick-DNA Miniprep Kit. The primers were designed using Primer 3 software, validated using the program  BLAST, and checked for hairpin and homo-hetero-dimerization using the IDT oligo analyzer. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-high-resolution  melting assays for screening TBX5 gene mutations were done using a magnetic induction cycler. We found two (2) TBX5 mutations in exon 5, among  patients with Atrial-Ventral Septal Defects (ASVD) and Atrial-Septal Defects (ASD) and none among controls. TBX5 exon 5 is a molecular hotspot for  isolated congenital heart diseases.
Horseshoe kidney: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Karim Yacouba Garba , Yaovi-Edem James , Bigue Mar Ndeye , Allah-Syengar Ndormadjita , Assane Ndiaye , Abdoulaye Ndiaye , Jean-Marc Ndoye
Published: December 2022

The horseshoe kidney (HK) is a very rare renal malformation. It designates a transposition by fusion of the parenchymas of the two poles of the kidney. Its discovery is incidental to an autopsy. However, it is most often asymptomatic. Thus, we report a case of horseshoe kidney accidental discovery in a 58-  year-old man. We take this opportunity to review the literature on embryological, clinical and therapeutic aspects of this malformation, which is one of  the renal ectopies diagnosed in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ultrasonography of fetal kidney length as the approach for estimation of gestational age in Sudanese
Authors: Mustafa Mohamed O. , Ali Qurashi. M. , Haleeb Mohamed , Badawey Kamoleldin , Abdelmotalab Mohammed A.A.
Published: December 2022

A true estimation of gestational age (GA) plays an important role in quality maternity care and scheduling the labor date. This study was to evaluate the  application of kidney length (KL) measurement to the determine GA between the 14th and 40th weeks and to compare its accuracy with that of other  fetal biometric indices. This study has been designed as a prospective descriptive cross-sectional study in Khartoum and Gezira states - Sudan. 389  Sudanese healthy pregnant women, age between 15 – 45 years were examined by ultrasound with normal and wellbeing fetuses. Linear regression  models for estimation of GA were derived from the biometric indices and kidney length. Also, stepwise regression models were constructed to detect the  best model for determining GA between 14 and 40 weeks. Comparisons were then made between the accuracy of these models in the determination of  GA. The equations derived from linear regression analysis when the individual variables were considered separately. Among the variable parameters  considered in this study, the most accurate was the kidney length with a standard error (SE) of (0.04) day, after that the biparietal diameter with (SE=0.10  day) and femur length, (SE=0.13 day). While the least accurate one was the abdominal circumference with an SE of 1.35 days. A significant correlation was  found between GA and KL (r=0.72, P<0.002). The Kidney length is the easy to identify and measure. It is the most accurate parameter for estimating  GA than other biometric indices in late 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
Study of variations in the broncho-arterial pedicles of the upper right lung lobe
Authors: Mar Ndeye Bigué , Yacouba Garba Karim , Seye Cheikh , Seck Issa Dior , Wade Racky , Ndiaye Mamadou , Tireira Daouda , Thiam Sokhna Astou , Gaye Magaye , Ndiaye Aïnina , Manyacka Ma Nyemb Philippe , Ndoye Jean Marc Ndiaga , Diop Mamadou , Ndiaye Abdoulaye , Ndiaye Assane
Published: December 2022

Bronchial distribution and functional arterial vascularization of the upper lobe of the right lung are subject to many anatomical variations. The control of  these variations is essential for endoscopic and agiographic examinations. It also offers a better guarantee for safe and controlled surgery. In this  preliminary work, the exploitation of 15 heart-lung blocks treated by the injection corrosion method allowed us to study the general arrangement of the  broncho-arteries of the right upper lung lobe and their anatomical variations in the Senegalese population. Our results were as follows: the right upper  lobar bronchus was born on average at 1.25 cm from the tracheal bifurcation, with an average length of 1.13 cm. It ended with trifurcation into apical  (B1), dorsal (B2) and ventral (B3) segmental bronchi in 10 cases (66.66%); in 3 cases (20%), it ended with bifurcation into the dorsal segmental bronchus  and the apico-ventral trunk (B1+B3) (1 case), the apico-dorsal trunk (B1+B2) and the ventral segmental bronchus (B3), finally, in ventral and dorsal  segmentary bronchi giving each one an apical branch (1 case); in a last case, it ended by quadrifurcation, giving an external parabronche. The right upper  lobe was vascularized by 1 to 4 arteries, with eight modes of vascularization. It received more frequently two arteries. The anterior mediastinal  artery was the most common (100%). These results allowed us to discuss anatomical variations in the bronchial tree of the right upper lung lobe and the  pulmonary arterial distribution in that lobe. These variations must be taken into account during endoscopic examinations of imaging and surgery of  pulmonary excision, under penalty of accidents.
Health risk indices associated with heavy metals from vegetables cultivated in Tsagero District, Rimi Local Government Area, Katsina State, Nigeria
Authors: Usman A. , Isiyaku A. , Abdullahi A. , Lawal H.G. , Wahuma G.C. , Dikko U.N. , Lawal A.U. , Yaradua A.I.
Published: December 2022

Local preservation of vegetables involves drying to enhance shelf life. The drying processes could, in turn, contaminate the vegetables with environmental heavy metals. Ingestion of foods contaminated with heavy metals may lead to an increase in the chances of incurring cancer and other health disorders in the consumer population. This study investigated heavy metals contaminations and health risks associated with the consumption vegetables from Turaji, Tsagero District, Rimi Local Government Katsina State, North west Nigeria. The vegetables were three samples of Solanum lycopersicum L. (tomato) as fresh tomato, tomatoes sun-dried along tarred road side, and tomatoes air-dried on farmland soil; three samples of Capsicum annuum (sweet pepper) as fresh sweet pepper, sweet pepper sun-dried along tarred road side and sweet pepper air-dried on farmland soil. The samples were grinded, ashed and digested with HNO3 and HCl separately using standard methods. The heavy metals (Cu, Ni, Fe, Cr, Cd, Mn, Zn, and Pb) contents of the samples were analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Daily intake, non-carcinogenic and carcinogenic risks as well as hazard indices of the heavy metals were determined. Results of the study showed that the vegetables analyzed generally have low levels of the heavy metals, with Ni being below detection level (BDL) in all the samples. All of the detected heavy metals concentrations were below the maximum permissible limits as set by the regulatory agencies. The calculated target hazard quotient (THQ) Health risk indices (HRIs) of the evaluated heavy metals in all the samples were therefore, less than 1. The Incremental Life time Cancer Risk (ILCR) to the population from consumption of the samples lies within the safe limit (≤10-4). From the results, these vegetables are hence, safe for human consumption.
FTIR fingerprinting combined with chemometrics of Guiera senegalensis leaf powder
Authors: Awwalu S. , Kassoum D.B. , Nasir I.
Published: December 2022

Guiera senegalensis is a shrub that grows up to a height of 3 to 5 m and has tremendous medicinal properties. However, there is difficulty in the identification of medicinal plants leading to substitution of one plant for another. This problem can be addressed by establishing fingerprints of the medicinal plants. The aim of this research is to establish FTIR fingerprint of G. senegalensis leave. G. senegalensis leave were collected from the wild in Jigawa, Kaduna and Zamfara states, shade dried and size reduced. Samples (2 mg) were analysed in triplicate using Agilent technologies FTIR Carry 630 in the mid-IR region 4000-650 cm-1 at resolution 8 cm-1 with 16 scans. The level of similarity and differences was determined by Chemometrics using similarity and discriminant analysis. The level of differences between the samples was insignificant (p<0.05) as indicated by low values of eigenvalue (0.048) and canonical correlation (0.215) as well as high Wilks’ Lambda value (0.954). High level of similarity between the samples was further proven by their correlation and Tuckers’ congruence coefficients values, which were close to unity. However, significant (p<0.05) difference in the concentration of phytochemicals was observed between the samples. The Guiera senegalensis leaf samples were similar with respect to their phytochemical constituents however, differences in the phytochemical concentrations were observed.
Formulation and quality evaluation of complementary food made from orange-fleshed sweet potato major component
Authors: Ani I.F. , Alfa T. , Adeola A.B. , Ajuzie N.C. , Ajani M.A. , Omotoye A.A , Akinlade A.R.
Published: December 2022

Introduction of appropriate complementary foods after 6months of life of infants is very important for optimum growth and prevention of malnutrition. This study formulated four samples containing varying proportions of orange fleshed sweet potato, acha grain, soybean and groundnut including sample A (60:10:25:5), sample B (60:10:20:10), sample C (55:15:25:5) and sample D (50:20:20:10). Chemical analysis of the samples was done according to the official method of analysis described by the Association of Official Analytical Chemist (AOAC) while sensory evaluation was done using a 5-point hedonic scale. All analysis was carried out in triplicate and the generated data was analyzed with ANOVA to compare different variables using IBM SPSS statistics version 20. The results revealed that sample A had the highest amount of carbohydrate, fat and crude fibre while sample D had the lowest ash content. Sample B had the highest content of calcium (36.39 mg/100g) and magnesium (62.25/100 g) while highest amount of potassium, iron, zinc and beta carotene were recorded in sample A. There were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in the carbohydrate, potassium and zinc contents of the food samples but significant differences existed for other nutrients. The microbial load of the samples was low (0.00 to 0.01 cfu/g). Sample C had the highest overall acceptability (4.00) for sensory evaluation. Incorporating orange flesh sweet potato into complementary food can help to prevent vitamin A deficiency which is prevalent among infants and pre-school children in Nigeria.
Assessment of facilities and slaughter figures of livestock species in Oko-Oba central abattoir Ifako-Ijaye, Agege Lagos State, Nigeria
Authors: Bello N.U. , Ibrahim H.Y. , Garba Y.
Published: December 2022

Abattoirs are needed to centralize slaughter processes and ensure surveillance of animal diseases at slaughter in order to avoid zoonotic transmission to humans through meat consumption. Inadequate facilities and hygiene at abattoirs can result in the contamination of meat and cause occupational hazards to workers. The objectives of this study were to assess the conditions of the facilities and the daily slaughter figures of livestock species at Oko-oba abattoir, Ifako-ijaye, Agege Lagos State. The study was conducted for three seasons from August 2020 to April 2021. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information on the study area, while daily visits, physical observation and interviews were used to collect data. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages. Cattle was the most commonly slaughtered species (92.34 %), followed by goat (6.34 %), sheep (1.15 %) and camel (0.18 %) in the late wet season (August - September). Cattle, goat, sheep and camel were slain in decreasing order during the early dry season (October - December) (90.17 %, 8.38 %, 1.40 % and 0.04 % respectively). In the late dry season (January - April), the cattle were recorded to have 88.00 %, goat 10.92 %, sheep 1.07 % and camel 0.01 %. It was determined that the season had no impact on the types of livestock slaughtered. Cattle were the most butchered species regardless of the seasons studied, followed by goats, sheep and camels. The abattoir also lacks several fundamental amenities that are expected of a standard abattoir, and those that are present are either non-functional or inadequate.
Effects of alcohol-graded concentrations on total thiols and some thiol utilizing enzymes
Authors: Akinloye D.I. , Ugbaja R.N. , Akamo A.J. , Toriola M.A. , Adewale A.O. , Ugwor E.I. , James A.S.
Published: December 2022

Excessive intake of alcohol has been documented to initiate different pathological conditions. Although various researchers have reported these associations, the modulatory effects on endogenous thiols are not well studied. This study investigated the effects of alcohol-graded concentrations on some thiol utilizing enzymes in rats. Adults’ male rats were divided into four main groups and treated with distilled water, 30 %, 40 % and 50 % alcohol (3.20 g / Kg body weight). Five rats from each group were sacrificed at the end of 1, 7, 14, 21, and 28 day(s) of the experiment. Assay of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase specific activities along with total thiols levels were carried out. Alcohol administration resulted in an upregulation of the activities of glutathione peroxidase and glutathione S-transferase with concomitant depletion of total thiols concentrations. Conclusively, this study affirms that graded dosages of alcohol administration to rats induced perturbations in the thiol utilizing system in a non-time dependent consistent manner.