bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DA INCERTEZA À PROTEÇÃO: REFLEXÕES SOBRE O LIMBO JURÍDICO PREVIDENCIÁRIO-TRABALHISTA
Authors: OLIVEIRA Cristiano de , OLIVEIRA Jeferson S. , Pessoa Tiago Alves
Published: June 2023

Em virtude de uma doença incapacitante, o afastamento do segurado empregado por mais de quinze dias ocasiona a suspensão do contrato de trabalho, desde que a incapacidade seja reconhecida pela Previdência Social, o trabalhador seja segurado e cumpra a carência exigida. Nesse contexto, o segurado empregado tem direito a receber um benefício por incapacidade temporária ou permanente de natureza previdenciária ou acidentária. Após receber alta médica previdenciária, o segurado tem o dever de retornar ao trabalho e se submeter a um exame de retorno realizado pelo médico do trabalho, a fim de verificar sua aptidão para retomar sua função habitual ou uma outra compatível com sua condição. No entanto, é comum que o empregador impeça o retorno do segurado empregado ao trabalho, mesmo após a alta médica concedida pela perícia médica federal. Essa situação cria um cenário de insegurança jurídica que envolve questões tanto previdenciárias quanto trabalhistas. Portanto, o presente trabalho busca demonstrar a importância da discussão acerca dos efeitos decorrentes da cessação da suspensão do contrato de trabalho após a alta médica previdenciária. Ademais, visa analisar a possível responsabilização do empregador pelo período em que o segurado empregado ficou impossibilitado de exercer suas atividades laborais devido à negativa expressa do empregador. Para tal fim, utiliza-se o método hipotético-dedutivo, respaldado também na análise bibliográfica referente à problemática proposta. Ao final, o artigo propõe algumas medidas para enfrentamento das situações de limbo jurídico previdenciário-trabalhista.
Resenha à obra “La responsabilidad civil derivada de los daños causados por sistemas inteligentes y su aseguramiento: análisis del tratamiento ofrecido por la Unión Europea”
Authors: Faleiros Júnior José Luiz Moura
Published: June 2023

É com muita honra que assumo o múnus de redigir uma resenha à obra “La responsabilidad civil derivada de los daños causados por sistemas inteligentes y su aseguramiento. Análisis del tratamiento ofrecido por la Unión Europea”, do Professor Doutor Manuel Ortiz Fernández, que é graduado em Direito pela Universidade Miguel Hernández de Elche, Espanha, onde recebeu diversos prêmios e bolsas, como o Prêmio Extraordinário da Universidade Miguel Hernández de Elche e a Bolsa para a Promoção da Excelência da Consellería. Em seguida, concluiu o Mestrado em Direito de Danos da Universidade de Alicante, Espanha, também recebendo o Prêmio Extraordinário da Universidade de Alicante. Desde 2018, é Professor Assistente de Direito Civil na Universidade Miguel Hernández de Elche. Em setembro de 2020, defendeu sua tese de doutorado, que obteve a menção de Doutorado Internacional devido a uma estadia de pesquisa realizada. Além disso, em abril de 2021, foi nomeado coordenador da área de Convênios de Pesquisa da Vice-Reitoria de Pesquisa, cargo que ocupa atualmente. Em outubro de 2021, lançou a excelente obra, que agora tenho a honra de apresentar ao público da Revista IBERC por esta resenha, com publicação da editora Dykinson, de Madri, Espanha.
Emotional intelligence and organisational commitment of Lecturers at Kyambogo University
Authors: Kato Joshua Kimata , Mugizi Wilson , Kasule George Wilson , Kyozira Peter
Published: June 2023

The study examined the casual link between emotional intelligence and organisational commitment of lecturers at Kyambogo University. Specifically, the study examined the link between the four emotional intelligence competencies of self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, and relationship management with organisational commitment of full-time lecturers at Kyambogo University. The three-component model of organisational commitment by Allen and Meyer, which describes it in terms of affective, normative, and continuance commitment, was used to assess the concept. Using the correlational research design, the study adopted the quantitative approach. The study participants were 175 full-time lecturers of the selected university. The data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Structural equation modelling (SEM) using SmartPLS was used to analyse the data. The study findings indicated that while self-management and social awareness were significant determinants of organisational commitment of full-time lecturers, relationship management and self-awareness were positive but insignificant determinants of organisational commitment. The study concluded that while self-management and social awareness are essential for the organisational commitment of lecturers, relationship management and self-awareness are not. Therefore, it was recommended that to promote the organisational commitment of lecturers, university managers should take cognisance of lecturers' self-management and social awareness more than relationship management and self-awareness.
Marital adjustment and bio-social actors as predictors of depression among perceived highly stressed couples in Ondo State, Nigeria
Authors: Olajire Oluyinka Olutola , Olusa Abayomi Olubanjo
Published: June 2023

A continuous threat to the efficiency of human functioning, interaction and relationship due to depression serves as a rationale for this study, and it shows the need to gauge the influence of selected bio-social factors and marital adjustment on depression among perceived highly stressed couples in Ondo State, Nigeria. Adopting a correlational design, 175 highly stressed couples were selected using a multi-stage sampling technique (stratified, proportionate, purposive and random sampling techniques) and responded to standardised measures. Frequency and percentage were adopted to describe the bio-social factors of the respondents. Pearson Product Moment Correlation was used to test the inter-relationship among the variables, while a two-step hierarchical regression analysis was used to test the hypotheses. The result revealed that gender, religion and educational qualification predicted depression among highly stressed couples. It was also indicated that depression decreases among highly stressed couples along with a significant increase in their marital adjustment. It was concluded that bio-social factors, such as gender, religion, educational qualification, and marital adjustment, were significant predictors of depression. And factors such as age, family type, and nature of employment had no significant relationship with depression among perceived highly stressed couples.
Comparison of rhabdomyolysis in acutely intoxicated patients with psychotropic and chemical substances
Authors: Babulovska Aleksandra , Caparovska Daniela , Velikj Stefanovska Vesna , Simonovska Natasha , Pereska Zanina , Petkovska Lidija , Kostadinoski Kristin , Naumoski Kiril
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Rhabdomyolysis is characterized by a muscle injury that leads to the release of intracellular muscle contents/constituents into the systemic circulation.

Aim: We examined the association between the severity of the clinical presentation and creatinine phosphokinase values in patients with rhabdomyolysis acutely intoxicated with psychotropic and chemical substances.

Materials and methods: This clinically controlled prospective study included 140 patients with rhabdomyolysis hospitalized at the University Clinic of Toxicology in 2019. They were divided into two groups by the substance used for intoxication (psychotropic or chemical).

Results: On the third day of hospitalization, we found a significant association between the type of intoxication and the degree of rhabdomyolysis according to the poisoning severity score (p=0.0256). The significance was due to intoxications with neuroleptics – 50% (n=6), anticonvulsants – 20% (n=1), antidepressants – 16.67% (n=2), heroin – 25% (n=1), and methadone – 54% (n=6). According to the poisoning severity score, the majority of intoxicated patients with chemical substances – other gases 100% (n=1), and those intoxicated with psychotropic substances – methadone 46.67% (n=7), neuroleptics 42.67% (n=5), heroin 40% (n=2), antidepressants 8.33% (n=1), had severe rhabdomyolysis. In psychotropic intoxications, creatine kinase had a significant linear positive weak correlation with mortality (p=0.0234).

Conclusions: Rhabdomyolysis and its clinical symptoms and signs were significantly more common in patients intoxicated with psychotropic substances compared to chemical intoxications. Intoxicated patients with psychotropic substances had more severe rhabdomyolysis on the third day of hospitalization. In psychotropic intoxication, with increasing creatine kinase level on the first day there was a significant increase in mortality.
Short-term outcome of treatment of elderly patients with epidural hematomas
Authors: Angelova Polina , Kitov Borislav , Davarski Atanas , Kitova Tanya , Kehayov Ivo
Published: June 2023

Introduction: There is substantial literature data dedicated to intracranial epidural hematomas affecting young and middle-aged individuals, but studies focusing on their characteristics in elderly patients are scarce, assuming that old age is a poor prognostic factor.

Aim: The aim of the current study was to review the typical features of the etiology, clinical presentation, disease course, and outcome in a series of cases with epidural hematomas in elderly patients.

Materials and methods: The etiology, clinical presentation, neuroimaging findings, treatment, and outcome in elderly patients operated for traumatic epidural hematomas were investigated in the Clinic of Neurosurgery at St George University Hospital, Plovdiv between January 2015 and December 2020.

The study included patients with isolated traumatic epidural hematoma, as well as those with epidural hematoma in combination with other traumatic intracranial lesions (cerebral contusion, subarachnoid hemorrhage, subdural and intracerebral hematoma). Postoperative epidural hematomas were not included in the study.

The neurological status of patients at admission was assessed using the Glasgow Coma Scale. The Glasgow Outcome Scale was used to monitor their condition during the first month after discharge.

Results: 121 patients with epidural hematomas underwent surgery during the study period in the Clinic of Neurosurgery at St George University Hospital, Plovdiv. Of these patients, 13 (10.7%) were people aged over 65 years (8 women and 5 men, mean age - 69 years). The most common cause of injury was a fall. Twelve patients (92.3%) had associated craniocerebral lesions and only one had an isolated epidural hematoma. Upon admission, 6 patients (46.2%) were neurologically intact. Ten patients were treated surgically, two – conservatively. Good outcome (GOS=4–5) was achieved in 8 patients (61.5%), poor outcome – in one patient, and four patients (30.8%) died.

Conclusions: Good outcome in elderly patients with epidural hematoma can be achieved in two-thirds of the cases, despite the negative influence of the age as a prognostic factor.
Initial experience in target peroral endoscopic submucosal myotomy combined with septotomy for epiphrenic diverticulum
Authors: Boyanov Nikola , Andonov Vladimir , Shtereva Katina , Madzharova Katerina , Stoynov Nikolay , Dimitrova Desislava , Yankov Ivan
Published: June 2023

The epiphrenic esophageal diverticulum is a rare non-malignant condition that is commonly associated with motility disorders. It would normally be treated surgically, but with the advancement of endoscopy techniques, peroral endoscopic myotomy with septotomy (D-POEM) has shown its benefits in coping with the symptoms. We present a case of a 71-year-old woman with increasing symptoms of dysphagia, weight loss and imaging data showing a large epiphrenic diverticulum. We treated her using peroral endoscopic myotomy combined with septotomy of the diverticular septum. The procedure showed excellent results with reducing the amount of contrast materials retained in it, improving the quality of life of the patient, and increasing her weight. There were minimal adverse events and no perforations or severe adverse effects occurred. D-POEM is a new and rapidly evolving procedure that is proving to be a safe and effective method of treating epiphrenic esophageal diverticulum.
Expression of Snail and Twist compared with clinical and pathological parameters in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Poryazova Elena , Serteva Denitsa , Markov Daniel , Chonov Veselin , Markov Galabin
Published: June 2023

Introduction: Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a process of change in the cellular phenotype from epithelial to mesenchymal morphology. The changes at the cellular level can explain the great heterogeneity and plasticity in the different histological subtypes of gastric carcinomas, which causes difficulties in therapy. In it, epithelial cells reduce intercellular adhesion, which is crucial in the process of invasion and metastasis of gastric carcinomas. Inhibition of cell adhesion molecules such as E-cadherin is known to be influenced by a number of transcription factors, such as Snail and Twist.

Materials and methods: Our study aims to examine immunohistochemically the expression of the transcription factors Snail and Twist in 69 patients with gastric cancer and to look for a link between their expression and clinical and pathological characteristics.

Results: Positive expression of Snail and Twist was observed in all cases studied by us. We observed heterogeneity and different intensity of immunohistochemical expression. There is a correlation between the immunohistochemical expression and the degree of differentiation of tumor cells and the tumor stage. The cells of poorly differentiated adenocarcinomas show diffuse and strong nuclear staining. No correlation was found between the expression of the two markers, age, and sex of the patients.

Conclusions: Evaluating the expression of the two markers studied may help to assess tumor progression and prognosis. They can be used for more accurate and effective diagnosis in precancerous lesions and in early gastric cancer because they are not expressed in the normal gastric mucosa.
Clasificación de los paisajes físico-geográficos de la Unidad de Gestión Ambiental 33, Quintana Roo, México a escala 1:50000
Authors: Estrada Porcayo Aranely Wendolyne , Ramírez Sánchez Luis Giovanni , Chávez Alvarado Rosalía
Published: June 2023

Los paisajes físico-geográficos están conformados por geocomponentes de carácter natural; la interacción e interrelación entre cada uno de los elementos que los integran da origen a la expresión formal del espacio físico como un sistema definido por su estructura, funcionamiento y organización. El objetivo de este estudio fue clasificar los paisajes físico-geográficos que conforman a la Unidad de Gestión Ambiental (UGA) 33, a partir de la delimitación, tipificación y jerarquización de unidades territoriales basadas en el sistema taxonómico conformado por localidades, parajes complejos y parajes simples. Como resultados se obtuvieron 8 localidades, 10 parajes complejos y 21 parajes simples. Los paisajes que predominan en el área de estudio son las planicies tectónico-carsificadas onduladas formadas por calizas en clima cálido subhúmedo. La estructura espacial de los geocomponentes físico-geográficos que integran a la UGA permitió clasificar de forma integral y sintética al territorio, de forma que, el mapa de paisajes obtenido en este trabajo podría ser utilizado como un referente para el análisis de estudios posteriores.
The Impact of Online Feedback Practice on Pre-Service English Teachers During the Pandemic
Authors: Zocaratto Bruna Lourenção , Quevedo-Camargo Gladys
Published: June 2023

The purpose of this chapter is to examine the results of a study on the impact of online feedback practice on the learning and education of pre-service English teachers at a Federal Institute of Education, Science, and Technology. To this end, questionnaires were used, and focus groups were conducted at the beginning and end of two English classes of the same level, during a period of two months in 2021. Thematic analysis was employed to analyze and interpret the data. Results showed that participants recognized the importance of online feedback for their learning and professional development, identified the need for a balance between corrective and motivational types, looked at it beyond a simple procedure linked to errors and grades, and showed interest in conducting fair and ethical assessment practices, with the reproduction of peer assessment and the use of rubrics.
The Effectiveness of Dynamic Assessment on Improving Multilingual Students' Writing Skills in Distance Education
Authors: Karagkouni Ifigeneia , Rousoulioti Thomais , Tsagari Dina
Published: June 2023

Research has shown that the implementation of dynamic assessment in the second/foreign language (L2) teaching affects students' learning potential and improvement. Ιn this light, the aim of this chapter is to examine the effectiveness of the method of dynamic assessment on improving adult learners' writing skills in Greek as L2 during the Covid-19 pandemic. This research focuses on the effect of online feedback, mediation, and strategies adopted on improving text quality and the writing process in general. A four-week on-line teaching intervention focused on teaching and assessing writing was carried out. Findings based on quantitative analysis show that students improved their writing competence on content development, text organization, and grammar accuracy. Nonetheless, the limitations of this study indicate the need for further research on the implementation of dynamic assessment by distance.
Public Utility Systems in North Macedonia
Authors: Malcheski Samoil , Gjorcev Jordan
Published: June 2023

This chapter deals with a topic that has been publicly debated in the North Macedonia in the last few years. The public utility companies are constantly in debt and with consistently poor quality of services. Hence, the main focus of the public debate is how to identify the causes of the persistent poor situation and how to overcome these problems facing the public utility systems. The primary aim of this chapter is to give an overview of the state in which public utility systems operate. Also, this chapter gives an overview of the importance of the institutional environment and decentralization and their impact on public utilities systems. At the end of the chapter, the sustainability of public utility companies and the financing of utility services and covering costs are presented.
On the Effectiveness of Local Financial Management
Authors: Stoilova Desislava
Published: June 2023

Local governments in Bulgaria have stable property rights regulated by the Constitution (1991) and the Municipal Property Act (1996). Municipalities own and use different types of assets to provide public services to local communities, but the effectiveness of local financial management is a controversial and topical issue. This chapter aims to analyze the financial performance of 18 large municipal companies for the period 2006-2020 by applying the Z-Score model. The results show that most municipal companies achieve profitability while providing a wide range of public services, such as water supply and sanitation, garbage collection, maintenance of urban infrastructure, management of municipal markets, construction supervision, investor and technical control, property management, geodetic services, and security services. At the same time, the municipal companies that provide district heating and urban transport and operate the municipal sports complexes are in poor financial condition and need appropriate measures to improve their financial performance.
The Role and Significance of Environmental Accounting for Sustainable Business Development
Authors: Novićević Čečević Bojana , Đorđević Milica , Stanojević Marina
Published: June 2023

In the contemporary circumstances, one of the greatest challenges companies are facing is the identification of environmental costs, both due to the lack of a unique classification and accounting coverage and because they occur when taking or not taking measures related to and relevant to environmental protection. Neglecting the ecological aspect of business increases the risk of a discrepancy between the consumption of natural resources and their limited availability. In order to cope with the constantly growing competition in modern business conditions, companies need an adequate information base. This information base is provided by environmental management accounting. It is focused on the use and management of natural resources and environmental costs as well as identifying the responsibility of individuals and the entire company for activities that are carried out to improve the environment. The aim of the chapter is to point out the role and importance of environmental accounting and especially management accounting for sustainable business development.
Digital and ICT Literacy in Distance Education
Authors: Solmaz Ebru , Özcan Seher , Coşkun Burcu Karabulut
Published: June 2023

Some studies have shown that the definitions of digital and ICT literacies need clarification, as they are sometimes considered the same thing. Digital literacy refers to the ability to use software or operate a digital device, while ICT literacy involves using digital technology, communication tools, and/or networks to access, manage, integrate, evaluate, create, and transmit information in order to function in an information society. The Covid-19 pandemic has made these two concepts even more critical, as all educational activities are now carried out using technological tools. This chapter aims to define digital and ICT literacies and highlight the differences between these two concepts. Additionally, it will discuss the importance and definitions of these literacies in the context of distance education in the 21st century.
Research Impact of the Scholarly Literature on Google Scholar
Authors: Chandrasekaran M.
Published: June 2023

The study analyses the research impact of scholarly literature on Google scholar; a Scientometric study during 2002 -2022. A total number of 25760 records were retrieved from Web of Science database for the period of study. Out of 25760, the highest 5017(19.47%) of the publications have been witnessed in the year 2021. Following is 4903, then 3835 contributed in the field of Google Scholar during 2022 and 2020 respectively. The top ranking of authors is found to be a Maffulli N with 113 (0.4%) of the publications on Google Scholar. The review articles hold the maximum of publications with 19132 (74.27%). Pharmacology pharmacy was top ranked in subject categories among the listed subjects and holds 2590 (10.05%) of the publications. Tehran University of Medical Sciences is among the most prolific institutions in the listed twenty-five of them. The institute holds 706(2.74%) of the publications in Google Scholar during period of study.
A Study on Disseminating Scholarly Information Through Online Resources in Universities
Authors: Binu P. C.
Published: June 2023

The chapter analyzes the dissemination of scholarly information through online resource use by the respondents in university. The study found that, out of 460 respondents, 234 (50.86%) belong to engineering /architecture—this is the top one category among the categories of disciplines of the study. The majority 435 (94.6%) of the respondents are aware of e-resources. 413 (89.78%), they prefer to make use of e-journals. E-Books are widely used by 426 (92.60%) respondents, followed by the use of e-magazines by 212 (46.08%) respondents. The result shows 185 (40.21%) of the respondents preferred general books. The majority 197 (42.82%) of the respondents preferred to use electronic resources for publishing papers in journals. The majority 142(30.86%) of them have preferred the electronic resources for preparing articles to seminars and conference; the respondents have opined as satisfied.
Exploring Opportunities for Utilizing Open Educational Resources (OERs) Towards Promoting Inclusive Education Settings in Tamil Nadu
Authors: Kumar K. Sathish , Jeyshankar R. , Muniyasamy M. , Natarajan P.
Published: June 2023

This chapter explores the potential of using open educational resources (OERs) to promote inclusive education settings in Tamil Nādu. The research method adopted for this study is a descriptive survey among with 275 research scholars. The chapter aims to understand the awareness, availability, and utilization of OERs among research scholars in Tamil Nādu, and to identify the opportunities for using OERs to promote inclusive education settings in the region. The survey mode under questionnaire includes questions such as the awareness of OERs, the sources from which research scholars access OERs, and their utilization in teaching and learning. The findings of the survey will help to gain an understanding of the usage of OERs and the potential of using them to promote inclusion in Tamil Nādu. The results of this survey will also be beneficial in understanding the current status of OER usage and the opportunities for utilizing them to improve the quality of education in the region.
Utilization and Impact of ICT in Information Literacy Expertise Among the Postgraduate Students of Alagappa University
Authors: Gurusamy Santhiya , Muthumari P.
Published: June 2023

This study examines the present usage of ICT and its influence in information literacy skills among postgraduate students of Alagappa University Central Library users. The questionnaire survey was distributed and simple random sampling technique was used in the study. A random questionnaire was distributed to 150 students and the study adopted an exploratory research design. The adoption and use of ICT has enhanced subject knowledge, new educational principles, and technologies. Quantitative research data were entered into an MS Excel file where statistics were uploaded and analyzed using SPSS software; a comparison between postgraduate students' awareness and use of ICT knowledge. Performance difference between gender and age were two groups involved in descriptive statistics, simple percentage, and ANOVA test.
Economic analysis and time monitoring of pediatric venipuncture procedures; audio-visual distraction and Buzzy® device versus standard care: protocol of an interventional randomized controlled trial
Authors: Di Matteo Roberta , Gentile Michela , Grassi Elena , Gatti Denise , Bolgeo Tatiana , Maconi Antonio
Published: June 2023

Background: reducing anxiety and pain during an invasive procedure like venipuncture is crucial for preventing the onset of stress and making the nurse’s procedures faster and smoother. Distraction techniques appear to be a viable solution. The aim of this study is to compare the effectiveness of two different distraction methods in terms of cost-effectiveness and time to perform venipuncture in a hospital setting. Materials and Methods: a randomized, controlled, interventional-blinded 3-arm parallel-group study with inpatients aged 3 to 18 years old, awake and conscious, at the first venipuncture attempt and only after children and parents signed informed consent. The pain rating scales Wong-Baker FACES, Numerical Rating Scale, and Children’s Fear Scale will be used. Conclusions: pediatric pain is a challenge for medical professionals as well as a health need that must be addressed rapidly. It is crucial to assess and apply the most effective methods for adequate analgesia in shorter periods, while also reducing healthcare costs.
Ethical violations: Shortlisting and interviewing processes in the South African public service
Authors: Mokgolo Manasseh M. , Dikotla Maoka
Published: June 2023

Background: Ethics, integrity and accountability in public service departments have weakened. These departments face ethical violations in recruitment, shortlisting, interviewing and appointment processes despite the presence of human resource management prescripts in place.Aim: This study aimed to probe the level of ethical violations in recruitment, shortlisting and interviewing processes, and describe the challenges faced by human resource practitioners and panel members in South Africa’s public service departments.Setting: Both the national and provincial public service departments of South Africa.Methods: The study adopted the qualitative modernistic research approach. A semi-structured electronic questionnaire was used to gather views from 528 participants, including human resource practitioners and line managers serving as panel members.Results: Ethical violations result in human resource practitioners and panel members being compromised, maltreated, victimised and bullied in the workplace. During recruitment, shortlisting, interviewing and appointment stages, abuses of power, undisclosed conflicts of interest and even patronage by political heads and top-and-middle management are acutely rife. Ethical violations inhibit the human resource functionary from building an ethical, professional and capable public service.Conclusion: Ethical violations during recruitment phases are exacerbated by political heads and top management’s observable disregard of prescripts.Contribution: This study will encourage management to consider human resource practitioners’ role in managing ethical dilemmas and galvanise employees towards maintaining ethics and jointly desisting from unethical practices.
Modified trapdoor procedure versus complete nail removal for subungual glomus tumor excision at minimum 2 years follow-up
Authors: Sallam Asser , Rakha Mohamed
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Various surgical approaches were described for excision of the subungual glomus tumors of the nail bed, including transungual, periungual, and nail-plate-preserving or nail plate non-preserving approaches. This study aims to assess the clinical outcomes, recurrence rate, and postoperative complications of our modified trapdoor technique, compared with complete nail removal approach.

Patients and methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 42 patients with subungual glomus tumor of the nail bed of the hand with a minimum follow-up period of 24 months. Twenty-two patients underwent modified trapdoor excision of the tumor. Twenty patients underwent excision of the tumor through complete nail-plate removal. Outcome measures included the 100-mm visual analog scale, cold sensitivity, nail discoloration, nail regrowth rate, infection, and local recurrence.

Results

A significant reduction in pain and cold intolerance was observed postoperatively for all patients. The mean postoperative visual analog scale was similar in both groups. Two patients with postoperative split nail deformity were noted in the nail removal group. Other two patients with severe nail deformation due to recurrence were observed, one in each group, in addition to other two patients with nail plate deformity due to infection, one in each group. Three patients with recurrence were reported in the nail removal group, and two patients in the trapdoor group.

Conclusions

Both techniques are safe and effective. The modified trapdoor procedure is better reserved for patients with small tumors, while complete nail removal is indicated for those with larger and aggressive tumors, especially in the presence of preoperative nail deformity.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic level III.
Civil Society and Peace Transformation in Sudan’s Darfur Region
Authors: Cocodia Jude K. , Abari Joshua
Published: June 2023

Scholars increasingly agree that civil society is needed if peace operations are to succeed, and conflicts resolved. However, they disagree on the impact  and influence of civil society on conflict transformation. The three international peace operations in Darfur from 2004 to 2018 experienced very limited  successes, but the situation changed rapidly from 2018 onwards as the crisis transitioned from high to low-intensity conflict. How was this achieved?  What factors were responsible for this conflict transformation process? This study contends that the involvement of civil society that facilitated the  removal of Al-Bashir set this transformation toward positive peace in motion. Relying on descriptive design, secondary data and critical analysis, this  study argues that civil society has navigated Darfur’s complex conflict terrain and contributed in good measure to the peace progress. This paper further  examines the role of Darfur’s warlords as peace influencers and how their leadership styles can be utilised to bolster Darfur’s peace.
Democratic Ethos The Bane of Communal Conflicts in Nigeria
Authors: Adeleke Gbadebo Fatai , Lawal Musediq Olufemi , Lanre-Bablola Folake Olubunmi , Akinpelu Temitayo Oluwakemi
Published: June 2023

Previous studies have established traditional causes of communal conflicts. Conversely, this study established a link between democratic processes and  communal conflicts in Nigeria. Through a three-component model focusing on various democratic processes, several democratic flaws were identified as  root causes of communal conflicts. Specifically, we found a misalignment of democratic equity principles among warring communities, which surfaced  because of differences in community hierarchies, structures, and personalities. A biased distribution of democratic dividends, unequal access to  competent electoral staff, and extreme bias towards opposing communities in electoral/political institutions were observed. Moreover, some aggressive- frustrated residents were easily provoked because of a lack of confidence in democratic institutions and processes. It is therefore essential to focus on  fairness in democratic processes to reduce tension in areas of communal conflict.
Book Review South African Foreign Policy Review: Ramaphosa and a New Dawn for South African Foreign Policy
Authors: Masters Leslie , Mthembu Philani , Van Wyk Jo-Ansie
Published: June 2023

No Abstract
Musicking ubuntu/unhu Sustainability Human Rights and Social Justice Activism in the Chimurenga Music of Thomas Mapfumo
Authors: Gwerevende Solomon
Published: June 2023

During the Second Chimurenga – Zimbabwe Liberation War – music was used to promote social justice and fight the oppressive colonial system. The  struggle for justice for all was driven by the spirit of ubuntu/unhu, which embraces the capacity of indigenous African cultures to express humanity,  respect, solidarity, and justice relevant to building an inclusive community. Chimurenga music, performed and popularised by Thomas Mapfumo who  coined the term in the 1960s, played an important role during the liberation struggle, delivering messages on socio-political concerns, and engaging  Zimbabweans on the issues of human rights, corruption, democracy, resistance, and economic transformation. This article discusses the use of  Mapfumo’s Chimurenga music in post-colonial Zimbabwe as socio-political discourse and a dialogue generator for sustainability
Unrecognised in African History African Women and their Fight for Liberation in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Bahati Ibrahim
Published: June 2023

Women’s contribution to Africa’s decolonisation and independence struggle has not always received recognition equal to that of men in today’s African  political history studies. Their influence on African politics today is also usually silenced. This article thus goes on a historical journey to show that women  in Sub-Saharan Africa have been at the forefront of subverting colonial patriarchal politics, which persist in many African states to this day. Through the conceptual thinking of Afro-feminism, the article gives examples of women across Africa and in African history who fought at the frontlines of liberation  and decolonisation battles to create equal, equitable, culturally-conscious, and gender-aware political systems on the continent.
A new methodology for the analysis of fish breeding seasonality
Authors: King R. P. , UDO M. T.
Published: June 2023

The difficulty to dissect and weigh very tiny gonads and several fish specimens for the purpose of computing gonadosomatic indices (GSIs) due to non-availability of reliable electric power supply under field conditions, necessitated the study. This paper presents the performance of the gonad length indices vis-a-vis the traditional GSIs. The gonad elongation ratio (GER) (i.e. gonad length as a function of fish standard length expressed as a percentage) is here proposed for use in analyzing teleost fish breeding seasonality. The West African amphibious mudskipper, Periophthalmus barbarus (Linneaus, 1766) (Teleostei: Gobiidae) from the Imo River estuary, Nigeria, was used as the trial species. Monthly mean testicular and ovarian elongation ratios were examined vis–a–vis the classical testicular and ovarian gonadosomatic indices. The monthly mean gonad elongation ratios followed similar monthly mean sequences of the corresponding gonadosomatic indices. Mean GSI was 0.192 in males (range 0.097 – 0.347) and 1.197 in females (range 0.512 – 3.398); whereas mean GER was 16.5 for males (varied from 12.9 to 19.2) and 19.5 in females (ranged between 16.8 and 25.3). However, the gonad elongation ratios fluctuated more finely than the gonadosomatic indices. It is 2 - 3 times much easier and faster to determine gonad elongation ratio in the field than the gonadosomatic index. The determination of gonadosomatic indices require the use of sensitive electronic balance and reliable electric power supply while these are not necessities for the determination of gonad elongation ratios. Being a quantitative measure, the gonad elongation ratio can be subjected to statistical reliability estimates such as standard deviation, standard error and confidence intervals. The gonad elongation ratio which is quantitative and has biological interpretation that is analogous to the traditional gonadosomatic index, is recommended for use.
Effects of reproductive hormones on reproductive biology of commonly consumed fish in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria
Authors: Dan M. U , Essien-Ibok M. A. , Udoinyang E. P. , Udo I.U. , Ufot D.U.
Published: June 2023

Nutritionally proteinous food and feed are required for a balance healthy living. This study was designed to assess the efficacy of some reproductive hormones: human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), Ovaprim (OVA), extract of carp pituitary (CPE) and deoxy- corticosterone acetate (DOCA) on some aspects of reproductive biology of gravid Heterobranchus longifilis and Clarias gariepinus. A 25 number each of gravid males and females H. longifilis and C. gariepinus were employed in this study. Five experimental set up were designed for the study. Each treatment group was dosed with the required amount of the four reproductive hormones while in the fifth treatment breeders were treated with normal saline. This served as the control experimental. All protocol followed standard procedure. Results showed the highest mean value of relative fecundity (148.177) recorded in H. longifilis treated with ovaprim. This was followed by HCG treated C. gariepinus (145.668). Egg fertility rate had the highest mean value of 61.4803 in C. gariepinus treated with ovaprim, followed by 55.583 mean value in H. longifilis with HCG treatment. Egg hatchability mean value of 70.9280 was the highest observed in H. longifilis with ovaprim treatment. The mean values of survival rate were high in both species with OVA and HCG treatment showing values of 61.86% and 61.00% respectively. Treatment of the species with these reproductive hormones yielded good outcomes, except in the case of DOCA. Thus, CPE, OVA and HCG are recommended for breeding of C. gariepinus and H. longifilis.
Gastrointestinal parasite prevalence of cultured Clarias gariepinus in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria
Authors: Bubu-Davies O. A. , Effiong M.U. , Abraham-Akosubo O.V. , Nwikasi R. Z.
Published: June 2023

Fish parasites are a key constraint to the production, sustainability and economic viability of aquaculture practices in Nigeria. Still, little has been documented on fish parasites and their associated risk factors. This study determined the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of Clarias gariepinus. One hundred and twenty (120) fish of different age groups in lengths, weights and sexes were randomly sampled from 3 fish farms (Station 1, Station 2 and Station 3) and examined for parasites. Of the 120 fishes examined, 83 (69.10%) were infected. Station 2 (33, 27.50%) recorded the highest overall prevalence percentage of parasitic fauna, followed by Station 1 (26, 21.60%) and Station 3 (24, 20%) the least. Sex-related prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites recorded a higher value (62, 51.59%) in males compared to female fishes (21, 16.0%). Age of fish based on lengths and weights indicated that smaller fishes harboured more parasites than bigger fishes. Observed parasites were nematodes, protozoan, trematodes and cestodes. Nematodes (33, 27.50%) recorded the highest abundance. In conclusion, smaller fishes were more infected than bigger ones in this study, suggesting best management practices to mitigate parasitic infection, especially in the smaller fishes.
Factors associated with patient preference of optical low vision devices in North West Nigeria.
Authors: Edemeraro Ekeoma Adure , Ejukonemu Barbie Oghene-Monday , Emereuwa Innocent Chinweizu , Abdulrahaman Umar Aminu
Published: June 2023

Purpose: The study was conducted to identify factors associated with patients’ preferences with optical low vision devices in North West Nigeria.

Methods: A mixed method study approach was adopted for this study. The study sample consisted of 219 patients seen over a 5-year period (2010-2015) who received optical low vision devices at the Low Vision Clinic of Health and Development Support Programme (HANDS), Jigawa State, Nigeria. In-depth interviews with 9 Low vision optometrists practicing in North Western Nigeria were also conducted. Data were summarized and presented in tables and figures. Chi square test statistics was used to test for association between categorical variables @ 95% confidence interval.

Results: The mean age of the 219 records of low vision patients reviewed was 45.28 20.22 and 162 (74%) were males. Age and occupation had statistically significant association with use of magnifiers (χ2=15.201,P=0.004 and χ2=29.261, P=0.001, respectively). Patients between 30 and 59 years preferred spectacle magnifiers while younger patients (<30 years) preferred stand magnifiers. A statistically significant association was found between the younger age group (χ2=12.127, P=0.002), students (χ2=13.517, P= 0.004) and telescope use. Results from the key informant interview showed that age, cosmetic appeal and ease of use were considered major factors to patient preference of optical low vision devices.

Conclusion: Age and occupation were the only demographic factors significantly associated with patient preference with optical low vision devices. Information from this study would be of benefit to low vision practitioners in the stocking and cost effective management of low vision patients.
Stevens-Johnson syndrome in an 18-year-old Nigerian female: A case report
Authors: Musa Mutali Junior , Okoye Stanley Godwin , Enaholo Ehimare , Ogwumu Kingsley Ekekwo , Iyami Nathan Godwin
Published: June 2023

Purpose: This is a Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) case with an atypical presentation. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a hypersensitivity reaction distinguished by necrosis of skin tissue and mucosal linings including the genitals and eyes. It usually occurs as a reaction to certain medications. The condition is regarded as a medical emergency and management is tailored according to presenting symptoms with emphasis on airway and hemodynamic stability, lesion treatment, and prevention of opportunistic infection. While the condition is not hereditary, genetic codes passed on may increase the risk of similar immune-mediated hypersensitivity responses among progenies of affected individuals. Cyclosporine and other immunomodulatory therapeutics have shown promise in managing this condition.

Case Report: This patient presented with severely reduced vision. The patient also had a recent history of bilateral ocular adnexal surgery and a family (father) history of kidney disease. An extensive case history, ocular workup, and microbial sensitivity testing were carried out to reach a diagnosis. The patient was initially placed doxycycline, Vitamin C, Moxifloxacin and Fluconazole. These were later adjusted when culture results returned. Unfortunately, due to the delay in presentation, the condition had progressed significantly, and management was palliative rather than restorative.

Conclusion: A knowledge of SJS and quick intervention is key to minimizing morbidity and possible mortality from this condition. Management of this condition is multi-disciplinary and eye care providers should examine sufferers for ocular involvement so as to mitigate visual morbidity.
Isolation of plasmid genes in eye swabs of babies delivered through spontaneous vaginal deliveries and caesarian section
Authors: Muoneke Hypolytus Chinonso , Ebisike Philips Ifeanyichukwu , Ajayi Bosede Olajire , Hassan Sadiq , Habib Saudat Garba , Atuanya George , Okpo Eme , Lekan Pedro Shamsudeen , Umar Dorayi Sani
Published: June 2023

Purpose: A number of eye disorders arising from bacterial infection of an altered normal flora can affect new born babies. The study aimed to investigate the presence of plasmid genes in eye swabs of babies delivered through spontaneous vaginal deliveries (SVD) and caesarean Section (CS).

Materials and Methods: This was a three-month prospective cross-sectional experimental study. Eye swabs of new born babies delivered in the maternity ward of Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital were taken. Samples were collected within 30 minutes of delivery from 82 neonates (50 SVD and 32 CS). They were evacuated to the microbiology laboratory for culturing, characterisation and sensitivity. Isolates that were resistant to 3 or more antibiotics were tested for the presence of plasmid genes. Those that contain plasmid genes were subjected to curing using standard procedures..

Results: The result showed that 16(32%) of E. coli, P. aeruginosa, 14(28%), and S. aureus, 11(22%) was isolated in the SVD group samples as compared with 10(31.3%) of S. aureus, E. coli, 9(28.1%), and P. aeruginosa, 8(25.0%) among the CS group samples. There were 47(77.0%) SVD and 14(23.0%) CS samples that were resistant to three (3) or more antibiotics but this difference was not statistically significant (p=0.157). Only 9(14.7%) isolates carried plasmid genes.

Conclusion: Plasmids genes were responsible for the resistance and promethazine is a good anti-plasmid agent. We recommend further research on the medical importance of anti – plasmid effect of promethazine working in synergism with other common antibiotic treatment to reduce treatment cost of plasmid-induced drug resistance.