bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic analysis of African swine fever virus based on major genes encoding p72, p54 and p30
Authors: Do Duy T.
Published: August 2021

African swine fever (ASF) is reported as a highly contagious hemorrhage lethal disease of domestic and wild swine. The causative agent of ASF is a large enveloped DNA virus with a complex structure. There are twenty-four ASFV genotypes described to date. However, in Vietnam, only genotypes II had been previously described. The genetic characterization of ASFV enhances the understanding of ASF epidemiology in terms of the extent, severity, source, and potential genetic variations among ASFV strains circulating in Southern Vietnam. Twenty ASFV strains were collected from pigs with ASFV-infected clinical signs from 10 provinces during 2019 - 2020. Partial B646L (p72) gene, complete E183L (p54), and CP204L (p30) genes were amplified, purified, and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis confirmed the circulation of genotype II by both the partial B646L (p72) and full-length E183 (p54) gene sequencing. Analysis of the p72, p54, and p30 regions did not indicate any change in the nucleotide and amino acid sequences among these strains. The results of this study revealed that these ASFVs shared high homology to ASFV isolates detected in Northern Vietnam and China.
Quantities and antibiotic resistance of microorganisms in some microbial products for animals in Vietnam
Authors: Ho Hoa T. K.
Published: August 2021

The aims of the study were to look into the quantities of live beneficial microorganisms and antibiotic resistance of bacterial strains in several probiotic products used for food animals in the market. Ten probiotic products that claim to contain beneficial bacteria and fungi were examined. Eight products are said on the label to contain Lactobacillus spp., nine contain Bacillus spp., five contain yeasts and two have molds. The results showed that eight products did not have the microbial quantities or/and composition of microorganisms as saying on their labels. Of eight products which claim to contain Lactobacillus spp., the bacteria were isolated from only four, of which three had Lactobacillus counts at least ten-fold as low as the numbers on the labels. Spore-forming bacilli were isolated from all nine Bacillus-containing products. However, two products had the bacterial counts at least 10-fold as low as the numbers printed on the labels. Among five products stated to contain yeasts, the organisms were recovered from samples of only one. Seven Lactobacillus and fifteen Bacillus isolates from all samples that had bacterial growth were tested for their susceptibility against seven common antibiotics using Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method. The results revealed that all the Lactobacillus isolates showed susceptibility to the tested antibiotics except kanamycin. All 15 Bacillus isolates were susceptible to ampicillin, kanamycin, and ciprofloxacin; five isolates were intermediately resistant to tetracycline; one isolates resisted erythromycin, and one isolates was resistant to vancomycin. The results of this study would provide information for farm practice in choosing antibiotics used together with antibiotics to maintain or/and restore the gut microflora after antibiotic treatment.
Genetic relationship analysis of Dendrobium anosmum Lindl. var. semialba based on the chloroplast matK and rbcL genes
Authors: Pham Dien T. K.
Published: August 2021

Dendrobium anosmum Lindl. var. semialba has variants of flower shapes. Currently, it has high economic value and is favored on the market. In this study, the genetic relationship of Dendrobium anosmum Lindl. var. semialba species was determined based on the analysis of chloroplast matK, rbcL gene sequences. The matK and rbcL genes of twelve species were amplified and their DNA sequenced. These DNA sequences were compared, calculated genetic distance and constructed phylogenetic tree. The results showed that 100% of samples were amplified and sequenced successfully. The analysis of matK sequences showed that 12 species had very high genetic similarity with the low genetic distance of 0 - 0.001; the nucleotide sequences were almost unchanged except for one variable nucleotide position in TB1 and TB1 was in a separate branch of the phylogenetic tree. The analysis of rbcL sequences showed that all species had a low genetic distance of 0 - 0.012 and had 7 mutant positions in nucleotide sequences of TB1 and TB5. These species were in a separate branch of the phylogenetic tree while the other species were grouped in the other branch of the phylogenetic tree. The study provided a reliable molecular database of the Dendrobium anosmum Lindl. var. semialba for identification, classification, biodiversity assessment and conservation of genetic resources.
Influence of spray-drying conditions on the physicochemical properties of red-fleshed dragon fruit (Hylocereus polyrhizus) powder made from peel and flesh
Authors: Duong Diep T. N.
Published: August 2021

Pitaya production has been increasing, that offers abundant material for food processing. New product development would greatly add value for this produce. The present study focused on the effects of spray-drying conditions such as coating material concentration and spray-drying temperature on the physicochemical characteristics of red-fleshed dragon fruit powder made from peel and flesh. The sample quality was influenced by two experimental factors, which were the maltodextrin concentration and the spray-drying inlet temperature. The samples spray-dried at 140oC to 150oC with 15% maltodextrin (w/w) gave the powder with the highest betacyanin, polyphenol, and vitamin C retention results (97.62 - 98.86%, 90.66 - 91.63%, and 63.40 - 63.68%, respectively). The moisture content, water activity and solubility of the sample was 3.88% to 4.27%, 0.26 to 0.28 and 99%, respectively. Red-fleshed dragon fruit powder made from flesh and peel has numerous potentials in the beverage industry
Innovation for improved hygiene: testing a handwashing station that uses recycled water in the field.
Authors: Reynaert Eva
Published: August 2021

Access to handwashing facilities is limited in cities in the Global South. On-site recycling of water can improve access to handwashing facilities in places that lack water and wastewater related infrastructure. A handwashing station prototype that uses recycled water was tested in real-life applications in Switzerland and South Africa, where it addresses both social and environmental goals. The transdisciplinary approach taken by the research team (a strategy where researchers from different disciplines work closely together with the users and beneficiaries of interventions) was a crucial factor in the acceptance of the handwashing station using recycled water.
Market challenges for local specialty crop producers during the early phase of COVID-19 in North Carolina
Authors: Dankbar Hannah , Phillips Ethan , Cruz Angela , Volk Emma , Hoffmann Mark
Published: August 2021

In March of 2020, as the number of COVID-19 cases increased in North Carolina (NC), the state encouraged people to stay at home; this included closing restaurants and canceling large events, as well as reducing the number of people gathering. The economic and health crises created by COVID-19 forced specialty crop producers who sell to local markets, such as restaurants and institutions, to pivot their marketing plans as the growing season began to ramp up. This article reports the responses to the first in a series of producer surveys assessing the impact of the economic and health crises on crop production, market channels, and producer concerns during one of the most insecure times in modern history. Results show that producers who could pivot their marketing plans mostly increased sales through online channels and farm stands. However, almost 50% of the usual market channels were reported to be closed due to COVID-19. Additionally, most producers voiced concerns about economic and health safety in the immediate future. To address these concerns as the pandemic unfolded, there was a need for trusted information. Respondents reported that they rely on Extension and other government agencies for this information and updates regarding the pandemic. This survey captured the early impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on the specialty crop-producing industry in NC. Additional surveys will provide information on how the pandemic evolved during 2020.
Bichas pretas
Authors: Dias Pereira Wilson Guilherme , Melgaço da Silva Junior Paulo , Manfrenatti de Souza Teixeira Tarciso , Caetano Marcio
Published: August 2021

Este artigo se propõe a refletir sobre as interações sociais de bichas pretas nas periferias de duas cidades brasileiras: Rio de Janeiro, RJ e Porto Velho, RO. Para tanto, buscamos no referencial teórico dos Estudos das Masculinidades em suas intersecções com raça e classe social, os elementos para analisar os dados produzidos a partir de observações participantes carregadas de nossas formulações pessoais e fruto de experiências vividas ao longo dos anos de 2019 e 2020. Deste modo, pensar nas bichas pretas a partir das masculinidades significa contestar padrões e regulações dos sentidos essencializados de ser homem e abrir possibilidades de se conhecer espaços sociabilidades.
Ressonâncias Coloniais, Estudos De(s)coloniais e Educação do Campo: apontamentos para uma agência investigativa numa Escola Família Agrícola, em Angical-Ba
Authors: Passos Cátia Fernanda de Oliveira , Santos Terezinha Oliveira
Published: August 2021

RESUMO: Apesar de o colonialismo ser uma forma de governo superada, suas ressonâncias permanecem, excluindo povos e perpetuando o trajeto das relações de poder, da dominação política e econômica. Em contrapartida, os estudos da pós-modernidade surgem em meio a essas turbulências e assinalam uma recontextualização social marcada pelas insurgências de corpos históricos marginalizados no enfrentamento das exclusões que têm no racismo sua base estrutural. Diante desse cenário, a partir de uma abordagem teórico-bibliográfica, ancorada nos Estudos Decoloniais, este artigo busca refletir sobre aquelas tensões que, constantemente, são reatualizados em práticas cotidianas. Essas práticas também estão nas salas de aula, nas suas interseccionalidades de raça, linguagem, etnia, gênero, territorialidade etc. Dessa forma, o presente estudo traz em suas linhas últimas o diálogo desses debates teóricos com a Educação do Campo, especificada na Escola Família Agrícola de Angical-Ba e os desafios da formação docente constituem-se apontamentos investigativos  de uma pesquisa, em curso, alocada no Mestrado Acadêmico do  Programa de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Humanas e Sociais, da Universidade Federal do Oeste da Bahia.
Les entérobactéries sécrétrices de béta-Lactamases à spectre étendu en urologie à l'Hôpital Ibn Sina de Rabat
Authors: Kone J , Bellahcen B , Awab A , El Moussaoui R , Alilou M , El Hijri A , Azzouzi A
Published: August 2021

L'antibiorésistance croissante des bactéries responsables des infections urinaires limite le choix des antibiotiques en chirurgie urologique. Parmi ces germes sont retrouvées les entérobactéries productrices de bétalactamases à spectre élargi (EBLSE) dont la progression devient inquiétante. L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la prévalence des entérobactéries sécrétrices de BLSE dans les prélèvements d'urines en péri opératoire de chirurgie urologique. Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective réalisée au centre hospitalier universitaire Ibn Sina de Rabat sur une période de 19 mois. N'ont pas été inclus  dans cette étude, les prélèvements urinaires réalisés à dans un laboratoire externe. Les données  étaient traitées avec le logiciel SPSS, les comparaisons faites par test du Khi deux ou de Student  avec un seuil de risque alpha fixé à 5%. Sur 830 prélèvements positifs 656 étaient des entérobactéries soit 79 % des germes isolés. E.coli représentait 53,2%, K.pneumoniae 28%, E.cloacae 7,8% et P.mirabillis 7%. Les producteurs de BLSE représentaient 17,5% de l'échantillon avec: E.coli (12,3%), K.pneumoniae (23,6%), E.cloacae (39,2%) et P.mirabillis (6,7%). On note une augmentation  de la prévalence des entérobactéries BLSE entre 2008 et 2009 : respectivement de 14,4% à 22,3% des entérobactéries isolées; pour E.coli de 32,76% à 40,68% et pour K.pneumoniae de 34,48% à 42,37%. Plusieurs facteurs de risque d'acquisition des EBLSE sont rapportés dans la littérature, dont principalement l'utilisation antérieure d'antibiotiques par ces patients.  Une politique de gestion rationnelle des antibiotiques  en  ambulatoire et  au sein des établissements de santé  contribuera à une réduction de l'émergence des germes résistants
Cellulite nécrosante descendante infectieuse d'origine dentaire à diffusion mammaire : Analyse de deux cas
Authors: Togo S , Yena S , Ouattara M , Saye J J , Sankare I , Touré A , Maiga I , Koné A , Dakouo D , Sanogo Z , Koumaré S , Koita A , Camara M
Published: August 2021

Les cellulites nécrosantes descendantes  d'origine dentaire sont graves et de prise en charge difficile. Leur  diffusion se fait classiquement vers le médiastin, les cavités pleurales, voir le cerveau. La diffusion spécifique à la glande mammaire est atypique,  rare et peu décrite. Nous rapportons 2 cas colligés en 15 ans de pratique de chirurgie thoracique. Il s'agissait de  deux patientes, l'une âgée de 32 ans et l'autre de 25 ans  toutes  vivaient en milieu rural. Leurs itinéraires diagnostiques et thérapeutiques, les facteurs de risque, les moyens thérapeutiques utilisés et leurs pronostics ont été discutés. Le but de ce travail était de mettre l'accent sur la gravité de cette pathologie et inciter à la mise en œuvre d'une politique de prévention à l'échelle nationale. Mots clés : cellulite, glande mammaire, dentaire.
Panorama de la maladie de Kaposi dans le service des maladies infectieuses et Tropicales du CHU Yalgado Ouédraogo de 2010 à 2015.
Authors: SAVADOGO M M , ZOUNGRANA J , Boushab MB , SONDO KA , DIALLO I , BAMBARA HA , KYELEM N
Published: August 2021

L'incidence de la maladie de Kaposi à l'ère de la multithérapie aux antirétroviraux est en croissance. Elle se manifeste couramment par des lésions papulo-nodulaires angiomateuses se localisant fréquemment au niveau des membres inférieurs. Sa gravité réside dans ses possibilités de dissémination locorégionale. A partir de cinq cas, les auteurs rappellent la diversité clinique de la maladie, la difficulté de confirmation du diagnostic dans notre contexte, et la gravité de certaines formes cliniques. La maladie concernait trois hommes et deux femmes dont l'âge variait entre 30 et 43 ans. Il s'agissait de trois cas de Kaposi cutané, un cas de kaposi œsophagien et un cas de Kaposi ulcéro bourgeonnante de jambe avec atteinte pleurale. La confirmation anatomopathologique a été faite chez un seul patient et deux cas étaient décédés en cours d'hospitalisation.  La maladie de Kaposi était la circonstance de dépistage de l'infection à VIH dans deux cas, elle est  survenue au cours du traitement antirétroviral dans trois cas. La maladie de Kaposi est une pathologie classant Sida. Son diagnostic chez le sujet vivant avec le VIH justifie l'instauration rapide d'un traitement antirétroviral efficace quel que soit la valeur des lymphocytes TCD4. Sa prise en charge requiert une collaboration pluridisciplinaire.  Mots clés : Maladie de Kaposi, VIH, Sida.
Prévalence de la lipodystrophie et facteurs associés chez les personnes adultes vivant avec le VIH sous antirétroviral suivies à l'hôpital Béthesda de Cotonou en 2014
Authors: ALASSANI A , DOVONOU AC , ATTINSOUNON AC , GNINKOUN J , WANVOEGBE A , CODJO L , ZANNOU DM , DJROLO F , HOUNGBE F
Published: August 2021

Objectif : l'objectif de cette étude est de déterminer la prévalence et les facteurs associés à la lipodystrophie chez les personnes vivant avec le VIH sous antirétroviral suivies à l'hôpital Béthesda de Cotonou.Méthodes : Il s'est agi d'une étude transversale, descriptive et analytique. La population d'étude est constituée par les personnes vivant avec le VIH sous antirétroviral, suivies à l'hôpital Béthesda de Cotonou. La lipodystrophie a été définie par la présence de signes de lipoatrophie et/ou de lipohypertrophie objectivés par les patients et confirmés par l'examen clinique.Résultats : Au total 305 patients ont été inclus dans l'étude, dont 214 (79 %) de sexe féminin. L'âge moyen des patients était 38,1± 5,4 ans. La lipodystrophie était présente chez 213 patients soit une prévalence de 69,83%. Les facteurs associés à la lipodystrophie étaient le sexe féminin, l'âge de 40 ans et plus, la sédentarité, la consommation du tabac, l'apport en énergie anormal, la consommation du tabac, la consommation insuffisante en fruits et légumes, une durée de traitement antirétroviral de 1 an ou plus, un taux de CD4 inférieur à 200 cellules/mm3 au dépistage, l'absence d'appui alimentaire et de conseils nutritionnels, un IMC anormal et un tour de taille élevé.Conclusion : La lipodystrophie est fréquente chez les patients infectés par le VIH.Mots clés: Lipodystrophie, VIH, Cotonou, Bénin
Etude épidémiologique et clinique des détresses respiratoires aigues chez les enfants âgés de 1 à 59 mois admis dans le service des urgences pédiatriques au CHU Gabriel Toure
Authors: MAIGA B , Togo B , Diall H , TOGO P , Doumbia AK , Sacko K , Diakité AA , Sylla M , Traore H , Dicko.Traoré F
Published: August 2021

Introduction : Les détresses respiratoires sont une cause majeure de morbidité et de mortalité en pédiatrie ; l'objectif de notre étude était d'étudier les aspects épidemiocliniques des détresses respiratoires chez les enfants âgés de 1 à 59 mois dans le service de pédiatrie de CHU. Gabriel Toure.Méthodologie : Il s'agit d'une étude transversale descriptive sur douze mois du 1er au 31 décembre 2012 au service de pédiatrie du CHU Gabriel Touré Bamako Mali. Tous les enfants de 1 à 59 mois présentant une détresse respiratoire ont été inclus.Résultats : Ainsi 678 dossiers d'enfants en détresse respiratoire sur un total de 2241 hospitalisés en pédiatrie ont été analysés soit un taux d'admission de 30,25%. 64,75% des enfants avaient un âge compris entre 1 et 11 mois. Le sex-ratio était de 1,38 en faveur des garçons; les signes de lutte respiratoire (battement des ailes du nez, tirage intercostal et le geignement) étaient présents dans 96,22%. La pathologie pulmonaire la plus fréquente était la pneumonie (68,36%) celle extra-pulmonaire était le paludisme grave (11,80%). Le taux de mortalité était de 20,65%.Conclusion : les détresses respiratoires restent une importante cause de mortalité du nourrisson dans notre contexte avec des problèmes majeurs de prise en chargeMots clés : Détresse respiratoire, Santé publique, Pédiatrie
Impact de l'usage des gants médicaux sur l'observance de l'hygiène des mains au cours des soins au Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire du Point G de Bamako
Authors: Bengaly L , Fomba S , Keita M , Traoré AT , Harouna Z , Fofana A , Traore D , Dembélé JP
Published: August 2021

Objectif : Évaluer l'impact de l'usage des gants médicaux sur l'observance de l'hygiène des mains et promouvoir leur usage approprié.Matériel et Méthodes: Il s'agissait d'une étude interventionnelle avec une évaluation avant et après intervention. Sa mise en œuvre a été réalisée entre avril 2010 et octobre 2011 au Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire du Point G. Le recueil du consentement éclairé et les observations ont été effectués auprès du personnel soignant ayant un contact direct avec les patients avant et après intervention. Ces observations ont été  discrètes mais ouvertes, menées auprès des soignants préalablement informés du but et du programme des activités.Résultats : Au total, 143 fiches de consentement éclairé ont été retournées sur une prévision de 274 fiches, soit 52,19%. Les observations ont donné un taux d'observance globale de 52,05% avant intervention contre 42,97% après intervention (p = 0,0017). Le taux global de port de gants était de 23,30% et 27,20% respectivement avant et après intervention (p = 0,12).Conclusion : Les résultats des deux évaluations avant et après intervention ont montré une amélioration du taux global de port des gants qui n'était pas significative mais sans impact sur l'observance de l'hygiène des mains.Mots clés: Gants médicaux ; Hygiène des mains ;  Mali ; Point G ; Soins.
Caractéristiques épidemio- clinique et diagnostique des patients décédés au service de pneumo-phtisiologie du centre hospitalier universitaire du point g
Authors: Sissoko BF , Baya B , Soumaré D , Ouattara K , Kanouté T , M'Baye O , Dao E , Toloba Y , Diallo S
Published: August 2021

Objectif : Nous avons conduit une étude rétrospective, descriptive pour étudier les caractéristiques épidémiologiques, cliniques et paracliniques des patients décédés dans le service.Patients et méthode : Nous avons colligé les dossiers des patients décédés au cours de leur hospitalisation dans le service de pneumo-phtisiologie du centre hospitalo-universitaire du point G  entre juin 2010 et juin 2012.  Résultats : Sur un total de 1025 patients hospitalisés pendant la période d'étude, 307 sont décédés soit une fréquence de 29,95%. Seuls 189 dossiers répondaient à nos critères soit 18,44%. La mortalité globale était de 29,95%, avec une prédominance du sexe masculin (sex-ratio = 3,39). La tranche d'âge la plus élevée était de 60 à 90 ans (32,3%) des cas. Une radiographie thoracique de face pathologique dans 98,4% des cas avec des opacités occupant au moins les 2/3 du champ pulmonaire dans 39,8% et bilatérales dans 66,7% des cas. La durée moyenne de séjour dans le service était de 18,6 jours. La tuberculose était le diagnostic de deces le fréquemment retrouvée avec 28% des cas.Conclusion : Malgré les efforts fournis dans le cadre des objectifs du millénaire, notre pays continu à payer un lourd tribut à la Tuberculose.Mot clés :Décès à l'hôpital, épidémiologie,  clinique, paraclinique
Tuberculose vaginale révélée par une fièvre prolongée chez une femme immunodéprimée par le VIH à Cotonou, Bénin
Authors: Zannou Djimon Marcel , Kouanou Angèle Azon , Agbodande Kuessi Anthelme , Adè Serge , Attinsounon Cossi Angelo , Sèhonou Jean , Prudencio Roberto DTK , Adè Gabriel , F Fabien Houngbé
Published: August 2021

La tuberculose vaginale est exceptionnelle et sous diagnostiquée sous nos cieux. Nous rapportons le cas d'une patiente de 53 ans, immunodéprimée par le VIH hospitalisée dans le service pour altération de l'état général dans un contexte de fièvre au long cours. L'interrogatoire, et l'examen physique avaient retrouvé les éléments suivants : tousseur chronique dans l'entourage, partenaire sexuel multiple, leucorrhées persistantes. Le Mycobactérium tuberculosis était retrouvé dans les leucorrhées à l'examen direct. La sérologie VIH était positive au VIH1, le taux des lymphocytes TCD4 était à 22 cells/μL. Le diagnostic de tuberculose vaginal sur terrain immunodéprimé sévère au VIH a été retenu. Un traitement antituberculeux fut institué. Le traitement Antirétroviral a démarré deux semaines plus tard. L'évolution a été rapidement favorable et après 6 mois de traitement la patiente était déclarée guérie de la tuberculose. Chez un patient immunodéprimé au VIH, tout écoulement purulent persistant même vaginal doit faire rechercher une tuberculose
Epidémiologie et recherche sur la tuberculose au Mali: Etat des lieux
Authors: Diabaté Seydou , Baya Bocar , Sanogo Moumine , Diarra Bassirou , Toloba Yacouba , Berthé Gaoussou , M'baye Ousmane , Tounkara Sady , Coumbo Antime , Togo George , Kassambara Hamadoun , Siddiqui Sophia , Polis Micheal , Traoré Kassim , Dao Sounkalo , Maiga Mamoudou , Diallo Souleymane
Published: August 2021

la tuberculose reste
Female Doctors: Myths and Facts
Authors: Bin Younis Bilal
Published: August 2021

More than 70 percent of medical students in Pakistan are women. However, this does not translate into the working doctors’ gender ratio. There are reasons behind female doctors not able to work in medical field. These reasons need to be addressed. These are the very real and practical issues women doctors are faced with. These include extensive duty hours, lack of private rooms for breastfeeding, day-care facilities and child-friendly environment for doctors who are mothers. As for women doctors who are married and without children, extensive duty hours as well as rude and sometimes hostile behavior of patients remain very pertinent issues. We should reform policies to suit the schedule of female doctors. Reforms should be begun to accommodate female doctors.
Issues of Autonomy and Truth Telling in Pakistani Culture
Authors: Saleem Sarosh
Published: August 2021

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Perceptions of House Officers Working in Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department Regarding their Training
Authors: Sohail Shaherzad , Riaz Dar Lubna , Umber Qureshi Fouzia
Published: August 2021

Background: House job is a challenging stage in doctor’s career in which they learn how to apply knowledge which they have obtained from their medical school in practice. It is the social responsibility of the medical institute to train their doctor in a way to provide proper health care facilities to the society.
Objectives: To explore perception and views of House Officers, posted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology of Shalamar Hospital regarding their training.
Methods: A cross-sectional self –administered, question-based survey was conducted in department of obstetrics & gynaecology of Shalamar Hospital Lahore. The House Officers (Hos) posted in Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology were enrolled in the study from April 2017 to April 2019. Thematic analysis of the free comments was also performed.
Results: A total of 55 house officers took part in the survey. Out of total 55, approximately 83% of HOs reported to be satisfied with their training while 11 % were not satisfied. Most of the HOs 74% agreed with the statement that they are well prepared for future practice, after posting in department of obstetrics & gynaecology. 7.2% strongly agreed, 76% agreed and 11% disagreed with the statement that they have were well prepared for future practice after their obstetrics & gynaecology rotations. 90% of respondents said that they needed more surgical skills and 33% reported that they were deficient in dealing with emergencies. Common themes that emerged from comments included, peer behavior, clerkship, problems of working environment, and less exposure to emergencies as well as surgical procedures.
Conclusion: House job is the first step of post graduate training for physicians in Pakistan. The HOs at Shalamar Hospital had mixed views about their training. Most of the Hos were satisfied with their overall training, but they reported lack of surgical skills and suggested training in dealing with gynecological emergencies. Greater peer support and hands on training are required to facilitate young professionals so that they proceed with skills and gain confidence in their professional journey.
Prevalence of Smoking among Young Pakistani Adults
Authors: Nasim Fizza , Yousaf Saira , Arshad Rozina , Bin Younis Bilal , Shahid Adeela , Naeem Hafiza Rabia
Published: August 2021

Background: The history of smoking tobacco is primitive and dates back to as early as 5000 BC. In the last century this has changed to different forms like cigarettes, filtered cigarettes, self-made cigarettes, tobacco in leaf (beery), hukka, sheesha and pipe.
Objectives: To explore tobacco smoking practices in young adults and the factors that influences them to initiate or quit smoking.
Methods: It was cross sectional study based on a self-based on a self-administered questionnaire with a sample size of 486. Study subjects were young adults. The age of participants was between 17-35 years. Data was collected after taking an informed consent and the individual confidentially was maintained. A self- administered questionnaire was given where question were related to their socio-demographic characteristics and smoking   behavior. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.
Results: Of the subjects who were interviewed almost 62% were smokers. Significant number of the people did not remember the age of smoking initiation. 97% of the subjects smoked manufactured cigarettes. 49.6% of smokers had to visit a physician in last 12 months but only 40% of them were counseled regarding smoking hazards and smoking cessation. 61.6% of people had not seen any information regarding hazards of smoking on any kind of media, 27.5% saw them on electronic media and 2.6% noticed them on Bill board.
Conclusion: The main determinants of regular smoking among the university students were male sex, lower education level and having friends who smoke. This calls for the implementation of sex and age specific anti-smoking policies. By assessing the smoking behavior in young adults, programs and policies can be designed with an aim to reduce smoking rates among the youth of our society.
Incidence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms in Middle Aged Patients Visiting the Gynaecology Out Patient Department of Shalamar Hospital, Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Hameed Nazli , Shahnawaz Asma , Ali Muhammad Asghar , Asghar Aleezay
Published: August 2021

Objective: To determine the incidence of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms (LUTS) among patients visiting the gynaecology Outpatients Department (OPD) of Shalamar Hospital.
Material & Methods: A cross sectional study was performed and 300 patients were recruited. Patients aged 40 to 60 years, visiting the Gynaecology OPD at Shalamar Hospital, Lahore were enrolled from 1st February 2018 to 30th September 2018. The participants were categorized in to two sets: Premenopausal (n=187) and Post-Menopausal (n=113). They were asked to fill the international Consultation and Incontinence Questionnaire-Short Form (ICIQ-UI Short Form).
Results: Increased urinary frequency was found to be the most commonly reported symptoms (48%).Stress incontinence and urge incontinence were reported by 58% subjects amongst postmenopausal category and 42% in the premenopausal category. Presence of LUTS was observed to be directly proportional with age.
Conclusion: A high incidence of LUTS was observed among patients visiting gynaecology OPD of Shalamar Hospital, Lahore. Risk factors of LUTS and incontinence, like obesity and multiparity were frequency reported. Further studies are required to understand the magnitude of this problem in general population of Pakistan.
Knowledge and Awareness Regarding T1DM in Primary Health care Providers
Authors: Yousaf Saira , Arshad Rozina , Waqeel Muhammad , Javaid Maria , Naeem Hafiza Rabia , Kamal Faiza
Published: August 2021

Background: Diabetes is one of the commonest non-communicable diseases in the world. Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) is relatively less common but it is associated with greater morbidity and mortality. It is important to have the knowledge and awareness of T1DM especially in primary care providers (PCPs) to save the lives of children and young adults with T1DM.
Methods: A cross sectional study was performed by distributing questionnaires amongst the doctors belonging to the field of General Medicine working at the primary care level with practices comprising approximately 10% of diabetic patients. Responses were recorded on a questionnaire and the data was analyzed by SPSS versions 20.
Results: Only 62% doctors were aware about the correct pathogenesis of T1DM. Regarding the most important and fatal complications of T1DM i.e. diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), 88.9% came up with correct answer. However when asked about the mortality related to T1DM only 22% PCPs gave the right answer. Only 40% of the PCPs could give correct answer regarding the mechanism of action of insulin. 55.6% PCPs were aware of the variation in blood glucose levels and had knowledge how to adjust them. Only 55.6% doctors were aware of cause of hypoglycemia.
Conclusion: Most of the PCPs had suboptimal knowledge regarding T1DM, its pathogenesis, complications and mechanism of action of insulin. This study had identified the need for further improvement in PCPs practices for treating and educating diabetes and recommended that awareness and educational programs are necessary to update the PCPs on screening, effective treatment of T1DM, and prevention of its complications.
Stigmatization and Resources Allocation-Ethical Dilemmas for HIV Positive Intravenous Drug Users
Authors: Saleem Sarosh , Riaz Tarar Maryam
Published: August 2021

The burden of disease due to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) in Pakistan is on the rise. According to an estimate approximately 0.165 million people in Pakistan are infected with HIV and 17,149 person are currently receiving treatment for HIV/AIDS. The prevalence of HIV is 20% for intravenous Drug Users (IVDUs) while national surveillance data shows rate of infection in most major cities in range of 15-50%. In light of such alarming figures, distribution of resources and stigmatization are two ethical issues that gain attention of not only healthcare providers but also patients. Following is a case with discussion on these ethical issues.
Pregnancy Outcome in a Thyroid Cancer Survivor
Authors: Riaz Dar Lubna , Sohail Shaherzad , Farid Afreen
Published: August 2021

Background: Pregnancy after papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is rarely seen. Monitoring of such pregnancy is very challenging as normal thyroxin levels are essential for satisfactory perinatal outcomes. Beside the effect of carcinoma, its surgery, radioactive iodine therapy and psychosocial factors need to be considered.
Case Presentation: A 28 years old lady presented to Obstetrics/Gynecology outpatients department at 30 weeks for antenatal check-up of her first pregnancy in December 2018. Patients had papillary thyroid cancer in 2008, it was staged T2N1M1. She also had metastasis in cervical lymph nodes and lungs. It was treated by total thyroidectomy and para- thyroidectomy with bilateral neck dissection followed by two doses of radioactive iodine till 2011. She was followed up by her oncologist and they allowed her to conceive and continue pregnancy. Our patients had an uneventful pregnancy. She was delivered by caesarean section and the baby had to stay in neonatal unit for one day. Multidisciplinary approach, special attention in antenatal and perinatal period can result in successful outcomes of pregenancy in post treatment patients of papillary thyroid carcinoma.
Conclusion: Reports of pregnancies after papillary thyroid carcinoma are rare and its management is challenging. Multidisciplinary approach and attention to their special needs can lead to satisfactory pregnancy outcome.
Urethral Leiomyoma: A Benign Smooth Muscle Tumor in Female Urethra
Authors: Hameed Nazli , Butt Binyamin
Published: August 2021

Background: A benign smooth muscle fibroid was found in urethra. The tumor can be seen in females of reproductive age group with a peak incidence reported at 41 years. The rarity is supported by less than a hundred cases reported in literature.
Case presentation: In this case report a 48 year old woman presented to us with incontinence and poor urinary stream and was found to have a urethral leiomyoma. The lesion was enucleated and dead space closed. Patients made a smooth postoperative recovery.
Conclusion: Urethral leiomyoma is a rare benign tumor affecting females of reproductive years of life. The clinical diagnosis can be aided by endoscopic or radiological investigation. Surgical excision is the preferred treatment with a low Risk of recurrence.
Thermal Depolymerization of Lignin
Authors: Akash Bilal A.
Published: August 2021

Lignin can be considered as a clean source of renewable energy, which may be a substitute to fossil fuel and thus reduce some of the environmental pollution. This paper presents a review of the thermal process of depolymerization of lignin; which results in production of oil and gaseous fuels from such important renewable energy source. Also, thermal hydro-cracking of lignin enhances the liquefaction of other solid fossil fuels such as coal, by producing intermediates which then react further with coal producing lower molecular weight material, which is more desirable.
Performance and serum biochemistry of broiler chickens fed diet supplemented with Annona senegalensis-Garlic Cocktail
Authors: Garba Muhammad Haruna , Ayodele Ampitan Titus , Adelakun Kehinde Moruff , Salihu Nasiru , Dambazau Sabi’u Murtala , Lekene Bulus Jatau
Published: August 2021

Background: Animals eat to acquire the energy and building materials that they need to live and grow the nutrient required to achieve such, abound in phyto-materials. The synergistic, additive, or complementary immuno-modulatory effects of phytocomponents from A. senegalensis and Alium cepa were evaluated in this work. Methods: Seventy indigenously developed varieties of day-old broilers were divided in a completely randomized design(CRD) into 5 (n=14) treatment groups (T1-T5) treatments with 2 replicates per treatment. At the finisher level, 0.0, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 0.5 kg of the A. senegalensis-garlic (ASG) cocktail was added to the normal finisher diet. Results: Feed consumption tends to increase significantly (p≤0.05) with the increased level of ASG Cocktail. values recorded 1405±17.9 g, 1450±21.5 g, 1310±20.6 g, 1450±17.3 g, 1340±15.3g for T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5 respectively were recorded. There is a significant difference (p≤0.05) in the total protein (TP) at different inclusion levels with 0.5% having the highest value of 57.95±4.07 g/dl. The triglycerides and cholesterol levels decrease as the ASG inclusion level increases which shows the anticholesteremic potency of the blend. There are significant increases (p≤0.05) in the albumin and globulin concentrations as the level of ASG inclusion increased. However, while there is a significant increase (p≤0.05) in the aspartate transaminase along the concentration gradient, the reverse is the case with regards to alanine transaminase. A significant decrease (p≤0.05) in bilirubin concentration along the inclusion gradient (except in T5). There was a significant increase (p≤0.05) in body weight across the inclusion gradient except in T3. The Feed Conversion Ratio (FCR) follows a regular pattern with a range of 0.51-0.53 except for the birds fed with 0.3% inclusion (T3) that recorded a higher (poor) value of 0.89. Conclusion: Supplementation with ASG cocktail improves the performance and the immune-competence of the bird at the finisher stage
Proximate and minerals compositions of three species of fish, Champsocephalus gunnari, Oreochromis niloticus and hybrid catfish sold in Birnin Kebbi, Kebbi State, Nigeria
Authors: Iboyi Nathaniel Onuche , Harrison Ogala , Suleiman Jummai
Published: August 2021

Background: Fish is known to be one of the cheapest sources of animal protein and have essential nutrients needed in human diets. The present study investigated the proximate and nutrient composition of three species of fish, Champsocephalus gunnari, Oreochromis niloticus, and hybrid catfish (Clarias gariepinus). Methods: The sample collection, proximate and mineral analysis were conducted using the standard protocols of sample collections and chemical analysis. Results: The results revealed that Champsocephalus gunnari, Oreochromis niloticus, and Clarias gariepinus contain moisture (66.00±0.50%, 52.00±1.00%, and 70.00±0.20%), crude protein (9.20±0.1323%, 3.75±0.02%and 5.80±0.05%), crude lipid (10.16±0.91%, 2.37±0.01% and 12.00±0.30%), ash (11.92 ±0.02%, 39.40±0.03% and 11.97±0.06%), and crude fiber (2.03±0.01%, 2.36±0.02% and 0.19±0.01%) respectively. The mineral contents were: iron (4.50±0.01mg/kg, 3.70±0.01 mg/kg and 4.70±0.02mg/kg), Zinc (2.35±0.01mg/kg, 2.15±0.0100mg/kg and (1.89±0.01mg/kg) for Champsocephalus gunnari, Oreochromis niloticus, and Clarias gariepinus respectively, while copper was only detected in C. gunnari (0.25±0.01mg/kg). The same amount of chromium (0.01±0.00 mg/kg) was detected in all the samples. Manganese was undetected in all the samples. Conclusion: In conclusion, the present study demonstrated the nutritional value of Champsocephalus gunnari, Oreochromis niloticus and Clarias gariepinus. This information would help in choosing any of the fish bases on their nutritional values rather than taste and other physical features.
Flavonoids extracts from Psidium guajava, Vernonia amygdalina, and Azadiracta indica exhibited synergetic inhibitory activities against some food spoilage microorganisms
Authors: Oluwajobi Iyanuloluwa , Kabiru Adamu Yusuf , Jigam Ali Audu
Published: August 2021

Background: Flavonoids from medicinal plants have been reported to be a possible alternative to synthetic drugs due to their antimicrobial activities. In the present study, flavonoids extracts from the leaves of Psidium guajava, Vernonia amygdalina, and Azadiracta indica were evaluated for antibacterial and anti-fungi activities against some microbial isolates from spoiled tomato fruit. Methodology: Food spoilage microorganisms were isolated from spoiled tomato fruit. Flavonoids were isolated from the leaves of P. guajava, V. amygdalina, and A. indica, and were evaluated for their inhibitory activities against the isolated microorganisms using standard protocols. Results: The flavonoids extract demonstrated dose-dependent antimicrobial activities. Flavonoids extracts from V. amygdalina exhibited an inhibitory effect on C. tropicalis, K. pneumonaie, M. roseus, and P. aeruginosa with maximum inhibition diameters (MID) of 17.00±0.05, 25.00±0.45, 15.00±0.05, and 16.00±0.34 mm while the flavonoids from P. guajava exhibited inhibitory effects on the same organism with MID of 15.00±0.05, 14.00±0.10, 16.00±0.55, 15.00±0.43 and 14.00±0.05 mm respectively, while the flavonoids extract from A. indica exhibited the least activity on the bacteria and fungi isolates. Results of the MICs and MBC revealed that the gram-positive bacteria tested (M. roseus & S. faecalis) were more susceptible to inhibition by the flavonoids extract of the plants. The combination of total flavonoids from leaves of P. guajava and V. amygdalina exhibited higher and synergetic antimicrobial activities against all the tested organisms when compared with individual flavonoids extracts. This combination could serve as a potential source of novel antimicrobial agents for food industry.
Comparative free radical scavenging and hypoglycemic activities of n-hexane, ethyl-acetate, and aqueous fractions of Azanza garckeana pulp
Authors: Yusuf Abubakar A. , Yissa Toheeb D. , Agboola Abdulhakeem Rotimi , Balogun Sodiq M , Adeboye Peter O. , Hassan Opeyemi N. , Raji Iliyasu S.
Published: August 2021

Background: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing on a global trend. The aim of the present study is to identify the most effective antioxidants and hypoglycemic fraction of Azanza garckeana. Methods: The fractions (nhexane or ethyl-acetate or aqueous) of A. garckeana were administered to the alloxan-induced diabetic rats at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 15 days. Antioxidants activities were evaluated at concentrations of 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 µg/mL using the DPPH scavenging assay. Results: Results revealed that both the hexane, ethyl-acetate, and aqueous fractions exhibited hypoglycemic and antioxidants activities in a dose-dependent manner. The n-hexane fraction demonstrated highest percentage DPPH scavenging effect of 26.34±3.43, 38.44±4.35, 59.34±3.45, and 74.83±5.35 at 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 µg/mL respectively. The ethyl-acetate fraction demonstrated 19.33±2.98, 28.94±3.24, 47.34±2.90, and 57.82±4.54 respectively while the aqueous fraction exhibited the least activities of 12.45±23.45, 18.64±2.94, 27.94±3.89, and 39.43±3.89 at concentrations of 62.5, 125, 250, and 500 µg/mL respectively. In addition, the n-hexane fraction demonstrated the most significant hypoglycemic effect with the highest glucose reduction of 58.97 ±3.45 %, 63.86±5.35 %, and 66.51±4.35 %, ethyl acetate fraction demonstrated glucose reduction of 7.55±0.54%, 21.77±2.35 %, and 29.56±3.46 % while the aqueous fraction demonstrated the least hypoglycemic effect of 9.89±2.67 %, 18.09±3.45 %, and 18.87±3.24 at 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg bw respectively. Conclusion: The n-hexane fraction of Azanza garckeana extract could serve as a reservoir of bioactive agents that could be useful for the development of a new anti-diabetic agent
Mexicanolide, a bioactive compound from Cedrela odorata: In silico study of its pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness, potential drug targets, and cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines
Authors: Alozieuwa Blessing U. , Abdullahi Shehu U. , Agboola Abdulhakeem Rotimi , Odey Bernard O. , Ovaiyoza Adaaja B. , Iyaji Otiwa G. , Yuyu Zaman E. , Olayinka Oloyede E. , Muhammed Dauda , Berinyuy Eustace B.
Published: August 2021

Mexicanolide is a limonoids type of compound identified from Cedrela odorata, a forest plant with various medicinal properties. Several biological activities have been reported for Mexicanolide. In the present study, we used an in silico approach to evaluate the physicochemical, pharmacokinetics, drug-likeness, drug targets, and cytotoxic activities of mexicanolide from Cedrela odorata. The results revealed that mexicanolide has favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of a good drug-like candidate. Notably, the compound has a high GI absorption rate but could not permeate the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and has poor synthetic accessibility. Several proteins targets including Kappa Opioid receptor, Mu opioid receptor, delta-opioid receptor, Cannabinoid receptor 2, Phosphodiesterase 10A (by homology), Platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta, Stem cell growth factor receptor, Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2, Proteinase-activated receptor 1, and Epoxide hydratase were identified as target candidates for mexicanolide. Furthermore, mexicanolide demonstrated in silico activities against several types of cancer cell lines including the SK-MEL-2, HL-60, 8505C, SF-268, St4, OVCAR-5, K562, SW-60, MKN-7, and Lu1. In conclusion, mexicanolide has favorable physicochemical and pharmacokinetic properties of a good drug-like candidate and could be considered a multi-target compound with potential anticancer activities
Ameliorative effect of crude and solvent partitioned fractions of Gymnema sylvestre in alloxan-induced hyperglycemic and dyslipidemic Rattus norvegicus
Authors: Raji Rofiyat Omolara , Muhammad Hadiza Lami , Makun Hussaini Anthony , Busari Musa Bola , Maikai Sophia Shekwoyan , Raji Habibat Feyisara
Published: August 2021

The present study aims to evaluate the ameliorative effect of crude and solvent partitioned fractions of Gymnema sylvestre in alloxan-induced hyperglycemic and dyslipidemic rats. The extract and fractions of Gymnema sylvestre were administered to alloxan (120 mg/kg) induced diabetic rats at doses of 100, 300, and 600 mg/kg. Metformin (100 mg/kg) was used as the reference drug. All treatments were administered daily for 14 days through the oral route. Effects of the treatments on blood glucose levels, body weight, and serum lipid profiles were monitored. The results revealed that all the extracts and fractions were able to reduce the blood glucose levels and improved the body weight of diabetic rats, with more pronounced effects at the treatment of 300 mg/kg of crude methanol and ethyl acetate fraction. The blood glucose of diabetic untreated rats continued to increase up to the time of euthanization. There were significant reductions (p<0.05) in the levels of serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) of all the treated groups when compared to the diabetic untreated. However, a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the serum concentration of highdensity lipoprotein- cholesterol (HDL- C) was observed in the diabetic untreated rats when compared to the HDL-C levels in the treated rats. The ameliorative effect of the crude extract and the partitioned fractions on the diabetic induced alterations in serum lipid profile occurs in a significant (p<0.05) dosedependent manner. In conclusion, G. sylvestre extracts possess hypoglycaemic effects and attenuated diabetic induced dyslipidemia in rats