bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic management of dermatitis in a female German shepherd bitch in Islamabad, Pakistan
Authors: Kumar Lookesh , Mushtaque AAmerish , Yousaf Adnan , Shahnawaz Rehana
Published: February 2023

A female German shepherd bitch with baldness, widespread purulent lesions, hyperpigmentation, and acute itching was presented at the Ali veterinary clinic, Islamabad. The common reasons of the dermatitis problem are Mange/mite. According to history and current conditions of bitch mange/mite were ruled out as after a laboratory investigation. The condition has been identified as atopic dermatitis other bacterial and fungal infection agents also caused secondary lesion. Anti-allergic/antihistaminic drugs along with the administration of corticosteroids and nutritional supplement of omega fatty acid had noticeable marginal recovery in the bitch health.
Computational method in COVID-19: Revelation of preliminary mutations of RdRp of SARS CoV-2 that build new horizons for therapeutic development
Authors: Athar Fareeda , Beg Md Amjad
Published: February 2023

COVID-19 struck the population with fear of infection with this non treatable disease. This is a consecutive infection of SARS superfamily infection after SARS and MERS infection that was occurred in 2003 and 2014 respectively. WHO named this virus as SARS CoV-2 and the disease caused by this infectious virus was introduced as COVID-19. The virus infects 1,000,889 humans all over the world out of which 210,244 recoveries and 51,371 deaths had been reported till 02nd April 2020. Herein, we are using various computational methods such as EASE-MM, PROVEAN, iSTABLE, STRUM, DUET, SDM, DynaMut and MAESTROweb to identify the effects of protein structure stability of NSP12 protein. We have identified 12-point mutation where the deleterious effect is in "high-confidence". Further analysis of these high-confidence point mutations demonstrates that the mutation in W107, W159 and F636 with Glycine has a highly deleterious effect on the structural stability of NSP12. This analysis provides a detailed understanding of the structural changes of NSP12 and the effect of different point mutations on structural stability variations. As NSP12 gene is an important part of RNA dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) which is a part of active machinery for translation, a point mutation in the various residue of this gene might provide some crucial information about its functioning. We are dealing with the situation where we urgently required medication or vaccine to combat COVID-19. Therefore, this study for the first time provides essential molecular information about NSP12 gene and its significance in designing new therapeutic against COVID-19.
Renegade cellular genetic sequences in stealth adapted viruses: introducing a new era of virology
Authors: Martin W John
Published: February 2023

DNA sequence data have previously been obtained on an African green monkey simian cytomegalovirus (SCMV)-derived stealth adapted virus. The virus was repeatedly cultured from a patient with the chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). The data reveal not only genetic sequences that are derived from regions of the SCMV genome, but also the unexpected presence of genetic sequences that have originated from portions of the human cellular genome. The SCMV-derived stealth adapted virus has also acquired foreign genetic sequences of bacterial origin. The focus of this article is on the potential mechanism as well as the major biological and clinical ramifications of the primate to human and subsequent human to human viral transmission of genetically unstable renegade cellular genetic sequences. Insight into this topic has come from further analysis of rhesus monkey-derived cellular sequences in the stealth adapted viruses cultured from two other CFS patients and a mixture of both rhesus and human genome-derived cellular sequences in the virus cultured from another CFS patient. The virus acquired monkey cellular sequences are subject to ongoing mutations and can be replaced by human cellular sequences, probably by homologous recombination. There is a genetic basis for many human diseases, including cancers. The potential acquisition of pathogenic cellular sequences by stealth adapted viruses may, therefore, result in some of these genetic diseases becoming infectious. Stealth adapted viruses have been cultured from patients with a range of neurological and psychiatric illnesses, yet their existence is still not officially acknowledged by Public Health officials. The political reluctance to do so stems in part from the clearly implied origins of some stealth adapted viruses from the use of kidney cells from cytomegalovirus contaminated monkeys to produce live polio virus vaccines. It is imperative that the culturing and genetic analyses of stealth adapted viruses be pursued.
Clinical conditions and risk factors, in predicting risk of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)-ALRTIs in children
Authors: Amoo Abimbola , Afolabi Obe Oluwadamilare
Published: February 2023

Background: Acute Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (ALRTIs) are an important cause of morbidity and mortality in infant and young children in Africa. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2015 reported that about four million children aged less than five years die annually and 1.9 million of these deaths result from complications of ALRTIs, mainly pneumonia. This study therefore aims to investigate prevalence of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection and the associated risk factors of ALRTI among under-five children in Lagos, South-West Nigeria. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study among 200 children in Lagos, South-West Nigeria, with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection using Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). A structured questionnaire was self-administered to collect attributes that might directly or indirectly associate with the risks of acquisition of RSV infection. Data was analyzed by both descriptive and inferential statistics using SPSS. Results: A total of 200 participants were recruited, Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) infection was detected in Forty-five (22.5%) using Reverse transcription PCR (RT-PCR). Acute lower respiration tract infections (ALRTIs) were most predominant in age group 25-60 months (35%). One hundred eight (64%) had pneumonia while 72 (36%) had bronchiolitis. Furthermore, exclusive breastfeeding, family history of atopy, history of nasal instrumentation and attended creche were significant risk factors for RSV-ALRTIs. Conclusion: Infants with a family history of atopy are at increased risk of severe RSV infection, and longer hospital stay. Also, there was a significant association between RSV infection and History of nasal instrumentation as well as not been exclusively breastfed.
Covid 19: health promotion strategies suited to further global containment of the pandemic
Authors: Macnab Andrew
Published: February 2023

To achieve the combination of increased vaccination rates and broad adherence to infection prevention measures required to ultimately control the Covid-19 virus, greater clarity is needed globally about what knowledge, attitudes and behaviors underlie the ongoing resistance to vaccination, and limit public compliance over prevention. Government agencies and public health providers also need better understanding of their own strengths and weaknesses and to find ways to build public trust. Country-specific initiatives are needed to develop the improved campaigns required to achieve the level of innate and vaccine-induced herd immunity required to contain the pandemic. The World Health Organization has called for innovation, and this commentary explores how proven health promotion approaches that consult, involve, inform, collaborate and empower can be applied in innovative ways globally to enable individual countries to progress further towards Covid containment, so that the health burden of the virus will wane.
Ozone as a disinfectant in laboratory surfaces against the SARS-cov-2 coronavirus
Authors: Luz Eugenia Alcántara- Quintana , Carlos Miguel López-Mendoza , Martínez Lorena Díaz de León- , Aguilar Maribel Rodríguez , Rogelio Flores-Ramírez
Published: February 2023

Introduction: The treatment of surfaces with ozone has become important due to the ease of the SARS-CoV-2 virus to reach places where it is not normally disinfected with chemical treatments. Ozone can be supplied from two sources: ozone generators and electrostatic air purifiers, both of which leave no residues that damage the environment. Ozone is highly effective against bacteria, fungi, mold, and virus inactivation. The objective of this work was to investigate the disinfection of surfaces naturally contaminated with SARS-CoV-2 and bacteria by using ozone plasma. Material and methods: We examined the disinfection capacity of ozone plasma against the SARS-CoV-2 and bacteria, through a study of natural contamination in situ. Amplification of specific genes by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction of SARS-CoV-2 and microbiological culture of bacteria was performed before and after the disinfection process. Results: SARS-CoV-2 was not detected in all assays; bacteria were not cultivable after disinfection with ozone plasma. Conclusion: Disinfection with ozone plasma technology can be an alternative for their use in a shortage situation of others disinfects. Implications for the use of disinfection technologies of surfaces lab’s and the safety of laboratory personnel are discussed.
Identification of Candida and Geotrichum fungi colonized in the gastro-intestinal tract of patients with chronic urticarial
Authors: K Diba , S Shahabi , H Fakhim , M Mohamadzade , K Jafari
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Urticaria is a reaction pattern that represents cutaneous mast cell degranulation, with the condition being defined as chronic if lesions recur for longer than 6 weeks. Aims and Objectives: Considering the high incidence of chronic urticaria among the patients with colonization of yeasts in gastro-intestinal tract, we investigated all fungal colonization and invasion in the gastro-intestinal tract of cases involved hives. Our aim was identification of all isolates in the level of species. Methods: Our subjects included 200 cases with long time superficial lesions as Urticaria. Fresh stool sample from the cases with clinical symptoms were collected. A direct microscopic investigation performed for the detection of fungal growth in gastro-intestinal tract. The basic culture on sabouraud glucose agar used for confirming of the fungal detection. The Molecular methods and proteomic based MALDI-TOF system used for the identification of all fungal isolates. Results: The highest age range of our cases was 40-50 and included 25% of all. Women and men similarly involved (12 cases each). Our findings of microscopic investigation included budding cells in 13(54.2%) cases, blastospores 6(25%), arthrospores 3(12.5%) and pseudohypha 2(8.3%). Total of 24 fungal isolates, 7 (29.2%) cases of Geotrichum silvicola, 7 (29.2%) Candida albicans and 6(25%) Candida glabrata were the most frequent identified by MALDI-TOF system. Other yeast included C. Africana, C. tropicalis and C. glabrata one each. Only one unknown case by MALDI-TOF system recorded. Conclusion: A variable species of yeast fungi which are commensally live in human gastro-intestinal tract are potentially candidate of causing agent for chronic urticaria.
Under diagnosis of tuberculosis in times of pandemic and the use of microRNAs as biomarkers of infection
Authors: Castillo-Villanueva Elizabeth , Castillo Rodal Antonia Isabel
Published: February 2023

Objective: To analyze the evidence on the underdiagnosis of tuberculosis in the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the risk of COVID-19 morbidity and mortality in coinfection with Mycobacterium tuberculosis, and the use of microRNAs as diagnostic tools. Material and methods: We used an adaptation of the Cochrane rapid review methodology. The search was performed in PubMed and was limited to August 3. Titles and abstracts were reviewed, and the full texts of the final selection were analyzed. Results: The evidence found reports that in pandemic years there has been a decrease in the diagnosis of tuberculosis worldwide. In addition, the emergence of the TB-COVID-19 syndemic and its serious implications indicate that TB diagnosis should be prioritized. Conclusion: As a result of the pandemic, there were serious disruptions in TB care and services, leading to underdiagnosis of TB cases. To know the implications of the TB-COVID-19 syndemic, more studies are needed in countries with a high burden of TB. On the other hand, several efforts are being made worldwide to find miRNAs as specific biomarkers that can be used for the molecular diagnosis of TB.
A study of uropathogenic Escherichia coli from men in regional NSW (Australia) with special emphasis on antibiotic resistance
Authors: Kudinha Timothy , Kong Fanrong
Published: February 2023

Background: Escherichia coli is an important uropathogen, responsible for most urinary tract infections (UTIs). Most studies on E. coli UTI pathogenesis have been in females, with limited studies on urinary isolates from men. Understanding UTI epidemiology in men is important in UTI management in this gender, including formulation of empirical treatment guidelines. Methods: We studied the distribution of 310 uropathogenic E. coli isolates from men by uro-clinical syndrome, hospitalisation status, age group, and antibiotic susceptibility. Results: Most of the E. coli isolates were from the outpatient setting (189, 61%), with the various age groups generally evenly distributed. In the inpatient setting, the 0-10 years age group was not represented, and the remaining 3 age groups were evenly represented (22-27%). Most of the isolates (74%) were from cystitis cases. For pyelonephritis isolates, the majority (65%) were confined to the 21-40 years age group, and the least in the 11-20 years age group (12%). Antibiotic (and multidrug) resistance was higher in pyelonephritis vs. cystitis isolates (73% vs. 58% ; P = 0.023, for multidrug resistance). Overall, antibiotic resistance differed significantly by age; highest in the 21-40 years age range (69%), and lowest in the 0-10 years group (39%). Likewise, ESBL production was highest in the 21-40 years age range (10%), and lowest in the 0-10 years age (0%). Conclusion: We documented a significant difference in the distribution of antibiotic resistance by age group amongst UPEC isolates from men in regional NSW, Australia, in the 0-60 years age group.
Characterization and functional analysis of the hypothetical protein in Yersinia pestis
Authors: Ranganathan Vasudevan , Khoja Kainaat Munir
Published: February 2023

A hypothetical protein is a protein which exists but the function is not known. These are the proteins for which there is no experimental evidence that it is expressed in vivo. The usual scenario involving a hypothetical protein is gene identification during genome analysis. The function of a hypothetical protein can also be predicted by domain homology searches with various confidence levels. The Human Genome project and the genome projects of many other organisms has been a source for the information on the sequences and their functional aspects. However, this resulted in identification of many proteins which are hypothetical. Our project is mainly focused on these proteins. One of the hypothetical proteins with accession number AAM86904 is analyzed. This protein is from the organism Yersinia pestis KIM. This is a bacteria and kim is the strain to which the bacteria belongs. This study revealed a good amount of information about this protein. The protein characteristics, properties and similarities with other proteins are identified. The main principle for this study is that similar sequences having structural similarity are functionally related.
Four and five-chambered evolution of the late maastrichtian planktic foraminiferal Plummerita species in the Tethys
Authors: Salim Anan Haidar , Orabi Orabi H
Published: February 2023

Brönnimann1 proposed two groups from Trinidad, which have spine-like prolongation of ultimate and penultimate chambers of the diagnostic latest Maastrichtian planktonic foraminiferal genus Plummerita. As a separate group of this genus, some of it has the last six-chambered volition in Plummerita reicheli group (P. reicheli, P. pustulata, and P. hexacamerata). The same author also proposed another group related to this genus, with the last five-chambered volution: P. hantkeninoides group (P. hantkeninoides, P. costata and P. inflata). Nonetheless, another third group was also added to these Plummerita assemblages, where Anan2 added a distinct species of Plummerita from the Duwi section, the Red Sea coast of Egypt, P. haggagae, which differs from the other species of the Plummerita by its four-chambered volution in the last whorl. In the current study, an attempt is made to identify three new species of the planktic foraminiferal assemblages of five-chambers volution, P. hantkeninoides group (P. hodae, P. kellerae, P. premolisilvae) is believed here to be new, as well as another one four-chamber volution, P. haggagae group (P. elkefensis, n. sp.), which described from many localities in the Southern Tethys (Tunisia, Egypt, Iraq), and Northern Tethys (Italy). The biostratigraphy, paleogeography, paleoecology, and paleobathymetry of the recorded Plummerita members in different Tethyan localities are presented and discussed.
Nigella sativa oil of «diana» sort in the therapy of antibiotics simulated dysbiosis
Authors: Tolstanova Ganna , Serhiichuk Tetiana , Aleksandrova Iryna , Korbush Mariia , Dovbynchuk Taisa
Published: February 2023

Dysbiotic disorders of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) are one of the urgent problems today. There are a number of directions and means aimed at restoring the normobiota of the GIT, comprising of probiotics. An alternative to them can be probiotics and nutraceuticals, which are used in cases when the application of live strains is contraindicated. The purpose was to assess the possibility of using Nigella sativa oil to eliminate antibiotic-associated dysbiosis disorders. Methods: Dysbiosis was modeled by administering of ampicillin (75 mg/kg) and metronidazole (50 mg/kg) to non-linear male rats (170-200g, n=49) for 7 days. N. sativa «Diana» variety oil (200 mg/kg) was administered to the animals after antibiotics withdrawal. In comparison were used oil: N. sativa «Ancient Traditions», Ukraine (200 mg/kg); N. sativa «Messenger's Speech», Egypt (200 mg/kg), home-pressed sunflower oil (200 mg/kg); prebiotic «Healthy Tract Prebiotic» (30 mg/kg). All preparations were administered per os for 7 days. The quantitative composition of the microbiota was determined by plating 10-fold dilutions of fecal biopsies on elective media, expressed in lg (m+M) CFU/g. Results: The study has demonstrated a significant decrease in Lactobacillus and lactose-positive E. coli by 2 orders as well after antibiotic modeled dysbiosis. On the contrary, there was a significant increase in the number of lactose-negative E. coli by 4 orders and conditionally pathogenic enterobacteria (CPE) by 3 orders. Administration of N. sativa «Ancient Traditions» and «Messenger's Speech» to animals contributed to the complete restoration of the disturbed microbiota. The use of prebiotic partially contributed to the restoration of lactobacilli and lactose-positive E. coli titers, but didn`t eliminate the changes in lactose-negative E. coli and CPE. N. sativa«Ancient traditions» and sunflower oil did not have a positive effect on the restoration of the GIT microbiota at all. Conclusion: The use of N. sativa «Diana» variety oil for 7 days contributes to the complete restoration of the normobiota disturbed by the administration of antibiotics.
Dengue awareness among faculty members of government college university, Faisalabad
Authors: A Salim Siham , Fatima Ali Ramish , Ejaz Khan Madiha , Saleem Maria , Akram Muhammad
Published: February 2023

Background: As Pakistan is a developing country with limited sources and overpopulation, facing problems like earthquakes, water shortages and floods has affected the health conditions of people of Pakistan. Dengue has been a grave problem in Pakistan due to the availability of no vaccine, insufficient sanitation system, presence of polluted water for drinking and overpopulation for a very long time but still each year there are dengue cases reported along with deaths caused by it. Even for being present for a very long time and being prevalent, there is lack of sufficient awareness in the people of Pakistan. Aims: There are awareness studies conducted on various aspects of the population and in different areas but neither there are any studies conducted on faculty members nor consequently there are awareness programs based for the faculty members that are the source of knowledge for the society and specifically the newer generations. Thus, this study focused on determining the level of awareness in faculty members which might help in designing awareness programs for them later on. Method: The sampling technique used in this study was convenient sampling and the sample included 50 faculty members (men = 28, women = 21) from different departments of Government College University, Faisalabad. A self-constructed structured dengue awareness questionnaire was administered onto the participants i.e., the faculty members. Later on, the data obtained through these questionnaires were quantitatively analyzed and interpreted through the Statistical Package for Social Sciences SPSS version 26. Later on, the results were reported.
Isolation and identification of bacteria from exposed and sliced Allium cepa (onions)
Authors: Ibemologi Arikekpar , Tolulope Alade
Published: February 2023

Background and objective: Onions (Allium cepa) are the one of the most important commercial condiments grown and consumed globally. They, are perennials that can be used as a medicine and food. Onions are effective against common cold, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, coughs, and sore throat. It is also rich in proteins, carbohydrates, sodium, potassium, and phosphorus. During storage, some losses occur due to sprouting, drying and rotting that can be caused by some microorganisms particularly fungi. The black mould disease caused by Aspergillus niger is an issue of severe concern in onion production worldwide. This study was aimed at isolating and identifying bacteria on sliced onions (Allium cepa) exposed to air for three days. Materials and methods: Three Onion samples were collected from the General Market Tombia, Yenagoa, Bayelsa. The respective onion samples were aseptically peeled, sliced and exposed one hour , after which, 1g of onion was weighed and the extract was serially diluted. Following serial dilution, it was inoculated on nutrient agar and MacConkey agar separately and incubated at 370C for the next 24 hours. The same protocol was followed after peeling, slicing an exposing the onions for 48hrs and 72hrs. Gram staining and biochemical tests ( catalase test, coagulase test, blood agar, mannitol salt agar, and bile solubility test) was carried out for each isolates for proper identification. Results: Sixteen bacterial isolates were obtained out of which streptococci was found to be the dominant species. Gram staining and biochemical tests have further revealed the hidden insights for cohesive identification. The study confirmed the ten(10) isolates of Coagulase Negative Streptococci that accounted to (63%), four (4) isolates Staphylococcus aureus accounting to( 25%), one (1) isolate of Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes accounting to (6%). All were gram positive; 12 were gram positive cocci and 4 was gram positive bacilli. This could be because gram-positive bacteria are more tolerant to dry conditions than gram-negative bacteria, whose growth could be reduced when a surface is drying. The highest total colony count after 24, 48 and 72 hours incubation 1.24×1010cfu/ml, 3.22×1010cfu/ml and 3.31 x 1011cfu/ml respectively. Conclusion: Findings from this study revealed that some pathogenic gram positive bacteria-can be isolated from onions when peeled and left exposed on kitchen cabinets or other containers. Thus the practice of slicing, onions to air and keeping for days before usage is not hygienic and should be avoided.
Nasal rhinosporidiosis: a prospective study
Authors: Shastry Ashwini , S Abhilasha , Viswanatha Borlingegowda
Published: February 2023

Rhinosporidiosis is a chronic granulomatous lesion that is caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, a fungus of the class Phycomycetes, family Coccoidiodaceae. It primarily affects the mucous membranes of the nose and nasopharynx. Rhinosporidiosis is endemic to Sri Lanka, the Indian subcontinent and certain areas in Africa. Isolated cases have also been reported worldwide. Clinically it presents as a reddish, bleeding, polypoidal mass. We present a prospective study of 27 cases of nasal rhinosporidiosis that were diagnosed and managed at the department of Otolaryngology in a tertiary care hospital in India
Transoral treatment of stageg T3 laryngeal cancer
Authors: Santiago Ruggeri Carlos , Lopez Sebastian , Molachino Rodrigo , Legris Ana
Published: February 2023

Objectives: To determine the local control rate and disease-specific survival rate in patients with staged T3 laryngeal cancer treated with electrocautery, radiofrequency or CO2 laser transoral microsurgery as well as the incidence of complications and tracheostomy, gastrostomy or enteral nutrition requirement in these patients. Study design: Descriptive and prospective. Methods: Twenty seven patients with T3 laryngeal cancer were treated with electrocautery, radiofrequency or CO2 laser microsurgery at the Italian Hospital of Buenos Aires between August 2009 and december 2016. Patients with T3 tumors were classified according to the 2002 American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging system. These tumors caused vocal cord fixation, pre-epiglottic or paraglottic space involvement, focal infiltration of the thyroid cartilage or postcricoid invasion. Results: The initial local control rate was 44.44% (12/27), local control with rescue treatment was 59.25% (16/27). The specific survival was 59.25% (16/27). The rate of preservation of the larynx was 44.44% (12/27). The average follow-up time was 5 years. Four patients had serious complications: esophageal, glottic and esophageal stenosis (postadjuvant treatment with (QT/RT) and two had postoperative bleeding.Two patients needed a postoperative tracheostomy (7.40%) and 25 were able to feed orally (92.59%). The mortality due to complications was 3.7% (1/27). Conclusion: In patients treated by a transoral approach, for T3 staged laryngeal cancer, the initial local control rate was 44.44% (12/27), and local control with rescue treatment was 59.25% (16/27). The specific survival was 59.25% (16/27), and the rate of preservation of the larynx was 44.44% (12/27). Transoral sugery, in selected patients with T3 staging laryngeal cancer represents other therapeutic option to preserve the function of the larynx and has oncological results similar to other treatments. The use of radiofrequency or cautery to resect the tumor reduces the costs of treatment
Lateral sinus thrombosis with pneumocephalus: A rare complication of chronic suppurative otitis media
Authors: S Abhilasha , Viswanatha Borlingegowda
Published: February 2023

Pneumocephalus is defined as the presence of air or gas within the cranial cavity. It is seen rarely in association with complications of otitis media. One of the well-known complications of otitis media is lateral sinus thrombosis (LST). Infection and inflammation in the mastoid and middle ear predispose for thrombosis in dural venous sinuses which is in close proximity to it. In the era of antibiotic treatment LST accounts for 6% of all intracranial complications. In this article we report a case of active chronic squamous type of otitis media with lateral sinus thrombosis with pnuemocephalus along with the review of literature.
Harmony in the pre consciousness
Authors: Bloomer Richard H
Published: February 2023

I have taken a hypothesis about the resonance of neurons and laid it against the physiology of the optic paths from the eye into the brain to explore some changes that happen in pre-consciousness, the first 200ms. or so following the onset of stimulation. I explore several mechanisms to simplify and pattern the stimulation to prevent stimulus overload. I further present a hypothesis for the harmonic stimulation to vet the threat and reward value of the stimulation as a precursor to activating the amygdala and the conscious mind
Formation of intercultural competence of students in secondary school
Authors: SB Dagbaeva
Published: February 2023

The article discusses the formation of intercultural competence in the school; various aspects of the school environment that can affect the students' acceptance of ethnic diversity are considered. Intercultural competence is understood as a value attitude to the culture and history of other peoples, the desire for interethnic harmony. The analysis of federal state educational standards and programs in the field of formation of intercultural competence of schoolchildren is carried out. The productivity of the formation of intercultural competence of schoolchildren is associated with the introduction of multicultural education, which consists in recognizing by students of cultural diversity as a social norm and personal value. As the most influential agents in the school, a teacher and a textbook are identified. Discussion of ethnic differences in modern school textbooks has a number of risks: language is confused, redundant and turns calls for tolerance to others into abstract, moralizing and unconvincing statements. Teachers do not always take into account the ethno-cultural characteristics of the students' learning and communication
Hope and health related life quality among thalassemic patients
Authors: Perveen Shagufta
Published: February 2023

Background: This research examined the hope and health related life quality among thalassemic patients, mainly focusing on thalassemic patients with either on initial or advance stage. The study was aimed at exploring the hop in relation to the health related quality of life among thalassemic patients. Method: A cross-sectional study design was utilized. A sample of diagnosed male and female thalassemic patients, at initial or advanced stage, (N=60). The tools used were: the Urdu version of the Herth hope index and the sf-36 of quality of life scale. Result: The results exhibited strong relationship between the hope and quality of life. Further result study also proved, significant gender and severity and condition of disease base differences, showing male Thalassemic patients with higher level of hoper in comparison to female thalassemic patients. Additionally, the thalassemic patients at initial stage of the disease of both genders had a higher level of hope than the patients at advanced stage of disease. On the other hand, female thalassemic patients experience higher quality of life than male patients. Conclusion: The results emphasize the preponderant importance of psychological measures to evaluate and provide thalassemic patients with a psychological support and help to improve the level of hope and health related quality of life among thalassemic patients
Clinical management of depression using therapeutic models: case report
Authors: Evans Dami Binan
Published: February 2023

The case report presents a clinical management of depression in a facility in Jos, Nigeria. Via the management process, clinician was able to assess client who was seemingly in distress, hence provided with a more tailored clinical response. After prolonged intervention of 12 sessions, client was able to pick up and reintegrate more appropriately in his own society. Clinically, client has shown improvements in significant domains of functioning
Building resilience in African American males during pursuit of higher education
Authors: Muhammad Malik , Miller Adrian D , Johnson Tyler C , Sollers John J , Miller Jessica , Jones Brianna J , Byrd Goldie S , Livingston Jonathan , Eaton Sherry , Edwards Christopher L
Published: February 2023

This paper presents a brief historical look at education for young African American men from the post-Civil War era to the present. It explores reasons why education for this group has become a less favorable aspiration than when education became available to them. Changing role models are strong factors that negatively influence school participation and excellence. Suggestions for ways to instill resilience in young African American men to excel academically are offered, as well as areas for further study
Role of ketogenic diet in pediatric epilepsy
Authors: Basharat Shahnai , Ahsan Fasiha , Sikander Sehrish , Noreen Sana , Hamna Hamna
Published: February 2023

Pediatric epileptic seizures occupy a significant place in the current nosology of neurological syndromes. Most effected population with seizures is children and elderly and less affected are adults. Role of diet is plays an important part in reducing the severity of symptoms, most significant diet is ketogenic, which has been used from 1921 as a best treatment option. Composition of ketogenic diet (KD) includes highest ratio of fat, moderate ratio of protein and lowest ratio of carbohydrates. Combination of energy giving nutrients in this ratio induces the ketosis which leads to reduction in the initiation of seizures. Ketogenic diet participates in various mechanisms i.e. regulation of neurotransmitters, limiting glycolysis pathway, tri-carboxylic-acid cycle and oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acid; induces the anti-seizures responses. Numerous nutrients also showing the positive potential against epileptic seizures. But continues and very strict adherence to ketogenic diet causes some adverse effects on human body disrupting the normal mechanism of body. The focus of this review is on the pediatric epilepsy and modification in symptoms with the application of the ketogenic diet
Investigating english listening comprehension deficiency among students at secondary schools from psychological and educational view
Authors: Ahmed MohyAldin Amin Mohamed , Jamaan Yasser Othman , Medani Eltayeb Mohamed , Hamad Mosab Nouraldein Mohammed
Published: February 2023

This study aimed at investigating the deficiency of English listening skill among students of secondary schools in Port Sudan town. The researcher provided a number of factors that cause the deficiency, and then set out a group of suggestions to deal with it. This study is of a descriptive analytical nature, focused on the listening skill so, the researcher used the descriptive methodology which described the problem before dealing with it and also used the analytical methodology as an additional method to analyze some data and diagrams which the researcher used in the research. Tools used in the study were a questionnaire to students both males and females and a written interview for teachers who were teaching them. The researcher discussed and analyzed the results revealed by the students' and teachers' responses. After that, the researcher moved to conclude the study by presenting the findings of the study such as most of students tried to listen to English but they failed because of many reasons such as difficulty in identification different English words pronunciation, besides clear and correct pronunciation help students to comprehend English words in a right way. The methods of teaching listening comprehension are not convincing and enough to achieve the purpose of teaching. Finally, the materials provided by the curriculum and learning activities were not sufficient to enable students to learn listening in English language. Hence according to these findings, the researcher suggested a plan to solve these problems to achieve the goal of the study
Social support and psychological well-being among office employees of an MNC company in New Delhi
Authors: Singh Khushboo , Sindhu Nehal , Puri Amita , Sindhu Brahmdeep
Published: February 2023

The effect of mental health issues in the working environment has genuine results for the person as well as for the efficiency of the endeavor. Employee performance, absenteeism, rates of illness, staff turnover and accidents are all affected by employees’ psychological well-being status. 42.5% of corporate workers in India experience the ill effects of depression [WHO]. The rate of depression and anxiety among corporate representatives has expanded by 45-50 percent in the vicinity of 2008 and 2015 (WHO). India represents about 18% of the total populace. The present paper explores the social support and well being as experienced by corporate workers. Their implications in today’s globalization scenario, work output, productivity, efficiency is elaborated upon in the backdrop of investments in human capital
Emotional intelligence among Nigerian adolescents: the role of training
Authors: Makama Japhet Ayele , Ogbole James Aboh , Jatau Umar Stephen , Simon Bisji Jurbe
Published: February 2023

The study investigated the influence of training on emotional intelligence of adolescents in Jos South LGA of Plateau State. Forty-eight adolescents from two secondary schools (Sunnah High School and TCNN Secondary School) were used for the study. An experimental design was used in the study with 24 participants in the experimental group and 24 in the control group. The treatment group participated in six sessions of training involving intensive training in emotional-social intelligence skills acquisition for one month. The Wong and Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS) were used to measure emotional intelligence. The hypothesis tested showed that there was a significant effect of training on emotional intelligence of adolescents with those in the experimental group scoring higher on emotional intelligence. Because Training was found to be effective in improving the emotional intelligence of adolescents in secondary schools participating in this study. Curriculum developers were recommended to incorporate emotional intelligence training into the school curriculum in schools which will help in the development of a sane society
Most appropriate method of teaching composition writing to school students of Sudan
Authors: Ahmed Mohy Aldin Amin Mohammed , Jamaan Omer Yasser Othman , Mohammed Hamad Mosab Nouraldein , Medani Eltayeb Mohammed
Published: February 2023

The study revealedsignificant results. The most important ones were: students confront many and various difficulties when they attempt to write an English composition. Neither guided nor free composition writing can be achieved which is the main objective of teaching an English composition. Based on the study results, the study recommendations were suggested. The most significant ones were: the influence of psychological factor on composition writing skills of the participants, composition writing should be as realistic as possible as it is a mean of communications and teachers should keep in mind that the two types of composition, guided and free, were different, and that acquiring one did not ensure improving the other since students will acquire what they have practiced
An update on psychopharmacological treatment of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD)
Authors: Sjogren Magnus
Published: February 2023

Background: Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) is a common, often severe disorder characterized by appearance concerns and a preoccupation with thinking and behaviors related to this concern. Population-based investigations have found a prevalence of BDD of 1.5-2% in the general population. The first-line of treatment for BDD is usually Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) which often alleviates suicidal thinking, and act to protect against further aggravation of suicidal thinking. For delusions, antipsychotic treatment is usually required. This review provides an update on guidelines and pharmacological treatment studies of BDD including recommendations for management and treatment. Material and method: A narrative review of the current literature. Results: A presentation of guidelines, some key studies and recommendations for pharmacological treatment of BDD. Conclusion: Only one placebo controlled efficacy trial has been done finding that fluoxetin is superior to placebo in treatment of BDD. Several open trials support this finding and a randomized trial have found SSRI to reduce time to relapse. Clinical experiences suggest SSRI may reduce risk of suicidality. In severe cases, add-on treatment of second generation anti-psychotics may alleviate psychotic symptoms
Strategic approaches to combat the effect of stress induced eating
Authors: Aslam Maria
Published: February 2023

Stress could be explained as non-specific outcomes of the body to any exterior event that evokes the specific functional reactions of the body’s ability to regulate the equilibrium of inner biological mechanisms. 121 million people worldwide are affected by stress which is the common psychological disorder. Stress and anxiety are interrelated. Stress-induced eating is one of the ways to make oneself feel better in stressful condition, thereby increasing the physiologic demands which lead to obesity and further comorbidities as cardiovascular diseases, hypertension and diabetes. Psychological feeding incorporated with stress can be managed by implying healthy eating practices as compared to opting for convenience foods. Strategic approaches as muscles relaxing techniques, transcendental meditation, autogenic training, guided imagery and cognitive behavior therapy should be intervened in managing level of stress in individuals. Stress is inevitable but it can be managed by lifestyle modification such as physical activity, healthy eating and meditation
Solid Waste Disposal and Management Problems in Ramat Polytechnic Maiduguri, North-East Nigeria
Authors: Akeh Gabriel Igbe , Shehu Bawagana
Published: February 2023

This study examined the problems of solid waste disposal and management in Ramat Polytechnic Maiduguri, Borno state, North-east Nigeria. A set of questionnaire was administered on a sample of two hundred and sixty (260) respondents within the study area. The data collected were analyzed descriptively. The results obtained indicated that food wastes, polythene bags and polystyrene food packs constituted the largest component of wastes in the Hostel area. Other forms of solid wastes generated in other locations chosen for the study were paper waste, plastic/rubber bottles, leaves and metal cans. The study revealed that 44.83% of the respondents store their wastes in waste bins/ receptacles while 38.36% of the respondents practiced open surface dumping. The results showed that solid waste receptacles provided by the institution were inadequate. The findings also revealed that solid wastes were regularly collected by the polytechnic sanitation workers. Generally, 56.47% of the respondents were satisfied with the performance of the polytechnic sanitation unit in managing solid wastes in the institution. Inadequate personnel, lack of solid waste vehicles and funding were identified as the major challenges in solid waste management. The study recommended among others that the polytechnic administration should recruit more personnel, procure solid waste vehicles and adequately provide funds to the sanitation unit for effective management of solid waste. Furthermore, the institution should embark on awareness campaigns on environmentally friendly approaches to solid waste disposal to check indiscriminate dumping of solid wastes within the polytechnic premises.
Model of public–private partnership in organic rice production in rice–shrimp cultivation system in Cuu long delta, Vietnam
Authors: Thanh Nguyen Cong , Hay Duong Van , Kha Le Quy , An Nguyen Van , Manh Nguyen Van , Anh Phan Tran Tuan , Thao Thi Phuong , Huong Nguyen Thi , Tuyet Hoang Thi , Hong Cam Doan Thi , Tien Hai Nguyen
Published: February 2023

During 2014–2016, farmers in Chau Thanh district, Tra Vinh province, Vietnam under financial support from Tra Vinh Department of Science and Technology, applying technical package and supervision of IAS and economic contract of Ecotiger Ltd, Company produced, processed and exported organic rice following standard of EU, USDA and JAS to EU and America. In 2015, mean yield of organic rice was 4.29 MT/ha, inorganic rice being 5.40 MT/ha, net profit of organic rice was 3,431,000 VND/ha higher than inorganic rice. In total 50 ha, total profit was 1,201,150,000 VND. In 2016, profit of organic rice was 36,481,250 VND/ha, while inorganic rice being 23,950,000 ND/ha. Profit ratio of organic rice was 2.7; inorganic rice being 1.7, net profit was 12,531,250 VND/ha. Besides, each hectare of tiger prawns or crabs rotated after organic rice harvested 70 million VND, net profit of 40 million VND. In some areas, models of raising green lobster intercropped with rice + raising other sources of sea fishes (goby, mullet, or land shrimp) had additional income of 20–30 million VND/ha. In 2015 about 200 MT and 2016 about 600 MT of organic rice attained organic standard of EU, USDA and JAS exported to EU and America. Ecotiger1 strives for 2000 MT under contract of exporting to foreign partners.
Components in water reduce the alcohol-stimulative taste of spirits
Authors: Nose Akira
Published: February 2023

Effects of solutes on the stimulative taste of ethanol in transparent spirits such as vodkas were reviewed. It was demonstrated that MgCl2, MgSO4, and NaHCO3 could reduce the alcohol-stimulative taste of spirits and, at the same time, strengthen the hydrogen-bonding structure of water-ethanol in spirits. It was suggested the reduction of the alcohol-stimulative taste is related with a change of the hydrogen-bonding structure in spirits by proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR) spectroscopy. These salts in spirits seem to be originated in water added to spirits before bottling. Some salts in water could affect the stimulative taste of ethanol in spirits.
Oil and pectin extraction from citrus paradise(grape) peels: A case of response surface optimization
Authors: Olatunji Ololade Moses , Umani Kingsley Charles , Ekanem Jemimah Timothy , Taiwo Horsfall Ibiba , Okon Samuel Kingsley
Published: February 2023

This work reflects the extraction process of oil and pectin from grape peels using a response surface method in which a central composite rotatable design of 25 and 35 was used for the two extractions. Output temperatures (80–100°C) and heating times (5–9 hours) were used for oil extraction, while (80 -100oC) and heating times (20 – 60 minutes) and a pH of extract (1.0 – 3.0) were selected for pectin removal. Oil yield ranged from 7.90 - 15.30%, while pectin yield ranged from 19.90 – 35.70%. A maximum oil yield of 15.30% was obtained at a temperature of 90oC at a heating time of 9.0 hours, while a maximum yield of pectin of 35.70% was obtained at a pH of 2.5, 95oC temperature and 50 minutes heating time. The optimum value for oil production was 15.63% at an average temperature of 99.64oC and heating time of 8.99 hours, while the average value of pectin yield was 38.01% at an output temperature of 94.00oC, the period release time of 58.00 minutes with a pH of 2.00. The deviation between the experimental and predicted values was low and not significant. All processing conditions have important impacts on the extraction of oil and pectin from grape peels.