bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncertain reflective functioning, anxious attachment, and cumulative impact of early relational trauma as predictors of severity in borderline personality disorder
Authors: Devi K Dharani , Bhola Poornima , Chandra Prabha S.
Published: October 2024

Background:

The mentalization model of borderline personality disorder (BPD) utilizes a developmental psychopathology lens, emphasizing an unstable or reduced capacity to mentalize—stemming from early attachment disruptions and relational trauma—as the core feature of BPD. While the empirical evidence for the proposed intersections between mentalizing, attachment, and trauma and the development and manifestations of borderline personality is still limited, this knowledge is essential for developing effective assessments and interventions.

Aim:

To examine mentalizing, attachment, and early relational trauma as predictors of the severity of symptoms in BPD.

Materials and Methods:

The sample included 60 individuals diagnosed with BPD, aged 18–45 years, recruited from inpatient and outpatient services in a tertiary care mental health center. Participants completed measures of mentalizing (Reflective Functioning Questionnaire, Interpersonal Reactivity Index, and Reading the Mind in the Eyes test), attachment (Attachment Style Questionnaire), early relational trauma (Complex Trauma Questionnaire), and symptom severity (Borderline Symptom List).

Results:

The majority of the participants reported experiences of polyvictimization (93.3%) with the most common traumas being psychological abuse (93.3%), neglect (91.7%), and rejection (90.0%). Regression analyses revealed that uncertain reflective functioning, anxious attachment style, and the cumulative impact of trauma together predicted 53.1% of the variance in BPD symptom severity.

Conclusion:

Impaired mentalizing, characterized by inflexible understanding of mental states, is a critical target for therapeutic interventions in BPD. The significant role of anxious attachment and the necessity of assessing the perceived impact of traumatic experiences highlight the importance of trauma-informed and mentalization-based interventions for this vulnerable group.
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Awareness: An Integral Component of Maternal Health
Authors: Singh Apoorva , Singh Jayvardhan
Published: October 2024

This study aims to review the existing literature on awareness of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) with a particular emphasis on studies from India. The review highlights that the awareness of GDM among the general population requires significant attention. It also identifies a low level of understanding regarding the risks and complications associated with these conditions among participants. Notably, there is a scarcity of literature focused on pregnant women and the availability of awareness programs for this group. The review concludes that enhancing knowledge and awareness of GDM is crucial for public health policies and the successful implementation of the National Program for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases
A Unique Government–NGO–Industry Partnership Care Model to Reduce Morbidity and Mortality Among Underprivileged Children With Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in LMIC: A Pilot Study From Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Swaminathan Krishnan , Sopnajothi Suruliappan , Nidharshana Krishnamurthy , Prakash Govindasamy
Published: October 2024

Aim:

To pilot a 1-year comprehensive type 1 diabetes mellitus program, assessing outcomes on glycemic control and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) admissions pre- and post-intervention in underprivileged children with type 1 diabetes mellitus from three selected Government Medical College Hospitals across Tamil Nadu state, through a Government–nongovernmental organization (NGO)–Industry partnership.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 214 children were identified through the hospital database. Highly focused diabetes mellitus and insulin education along with analog insulins in penfill cartridges in the basal-bolus regime, high quality 800 memory glucometers with 100 glucose strips per month, ultrafine needles, 24/7 telephone support, and monthly review were supported to all the children. Data on baseline characteristics, pre- and post-intervention glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and DKA admissions were tabulated on Microsoft Excel, and the results were analyzed.

Results:

A 2.4% reduction in HbA1c and more than 90% reductions in DKA admissions were seen post-intervention compared with baseline. This can potentially translate to huge reductions in mortality and cost savings for all stakeholders.

Conclusions:

A combined Government–NGO–Industry partnership is the need of the hour to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus among underprivileged children in India. Our model has the potential to serve as a blueprint for type 1 diabetes mellitus care in low- and middle-income countries.
Impact of Aerobic Exercise on Physical Health, Cardiorespiratory Parameters, and Health-Related Quality of Life Among Children With Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review
Authors: Sharma Abhishek , Sharma Nidhi , Chahal Aksh
Published: October 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) in children poses significant challenges to their physical health and overall well-being. While aerobic exercise (AE) has been extensively studied in managing DM, its role remains underexplored in the pediatric population. This narrative review aims to systematically evaluate the impact of AE on physical health, cardiorespiratory parameters, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) in children with DM. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, focusing on studies examining AE interventions in children with DM. The review assessed the effects on physical health, cardiorespiratory fitness, and HRQoL, utilizing more commonly used HRQoL tools, such as the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL). A total of eight studies with 589 participants were included in the review. The mean age of participants was 12.4 ± 2.8 years. Evidence indicates positive influences on cardiorespiratory parameters, including improved endothelial function, increased aerobic capacity, and better blood pressure control. HRQoL assessments reveal improved self-esteem, mood, and overall well-being, attributed to the physical and psychological benefits of regular exercise. AE holds significant potential as an adjunctive therapy to improve physical health, cardiorespiratory parameters, and HRQoL in children with DM. The comprehensive evaluation of social, psychological, and physical effects using HRQoL tools, such as PedsQL, and other factors, such as independent functioning, underscores the importance of integrating AE into diabetes management plans.
Prevalence and Correlates of Behavioral Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases Among Undergraduates in University of Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Onwasigwe CN , Onwasigwe CR , Anyaehie UB
Published: October 2024

Background:

There is an increasing prevalence of behavioral risk factors of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) among the youths in low- and middle-income countries. These may later in life lead to chronic diseases with high morbidity, mortality, and undesirable economic impact.

Aim:

To assess and compare the prevalence of major behavioral risk factors of NCDs between medical and non-medical university students in Enugu, Nigeria.

Methods:

A questionnaire-based comparative cross-sectional study was carried out among 620 undergraduates of the University of Nigeria using the modified WHO STEPS questionnaire for chronic disease surveillance and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Data were analyzed with descriptive and inferential statistics at the significance level of P < 0.05. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to predict the behavioral risk factors of NCDs.

Results:

The mean age of all the students was 22.5 ± 2.9 years. A greater proportion were females (54.8%). Physical inactivity was the most common behavioral risk factor of NCDs and was more prevalent in the medical students (91.0%) compared to 87.4% in the non-medical students. Overall, 95.0% of all respondents had at least one behavioral risk factor. For the medical students, younger age (AOR = 1.80 CI = 1.00 – 3.22, P = 0.049) and parents’ lower educational level (AOR = 3.49, CI = 1.29 – 9.40, P = 0.014) predicted the presence of risk factors. For the non-medical students, single marital status (AOR = 3.66, CI = 1.20 –11.19, P = 0.022), lower level of study (AOR =2.92, CI = 1.13– 7.57, P = 0.027) and parents’ lower level of education (AOR =6.48, CI = 1.41 – 29.85, P = 0.017) predicted the risk factors of NCDs.

Conclusion:

Behavioral risk factors were highly prevalent in both groups. There is an urgent need to introduce evidence-based intervention to curb the situation.
Clinical Study on Mesenchymal Stem Cell Factors Therapy for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Xie P , Sun C , Li Y , Deng Y , Xie C
Published: October 2024

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), characterized by cognitive decline, lacked effective cures. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) factors (MSCFs) offered a new approach by promoting brain tissue repair and modulating immune responses, presenting a promising alternative to AD treatment with minimal risks.

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the effects of MSCF on AD and to compare the effects with traditional MSC treatments.

Methods:

Sixty patients were divided into control and observation groups, with 30 cases in each group. The control group were injected intravenously with 10 mL of MSCs (5.0 × 109 L-1) plus 100 mL normal saline (once every 5 days for six consecutive treatments). The observation group received intramuscular injections of 0.5 mL (1 mL for the first dose) of MSCF (every other day for 15 consecutive treatments). Amyloid-β 42 (Aβ42) and Tau protein concentrations in cerebrospinal fluid were determined by ELISA pretreatment and at 1, 3, and 6 months’ post-treatment. The Clinical Dementia Rating of AD patients was recorded at these intervals to evaluate treatment efficacy.

Results:

Aβ42 levels increased, and Tau protein levels decreased in both groups. The CDR score dropped post treatment. The total effective rate and clinical cure rate were 86.67% and 6.70% in the control group and 100% and 40% in the observation group, respectively. MSCF and MSCs uniquely impact AD.

Conclusion:

MSCs contributed to damaged nerve cell repair, new nerve cell differentiation, and the participation of some dormant nerve cells in physiological activity. MSCF offered a small-dose, rapid, and safe treatment with simple operation.
Predictors of Posture Induced Intraocular Pressure Variations in Normal Subjects and Glaucoma Patients. Evidence from Abakaliki
Authors: Ireka OJ , Arinze OC , Aniemeka DO , Ginger-Eke H , Ezisi C , Ogbonnaya CE , Chuka-Okosa C
Published: October 2024

Background:

Intraocular pressure (IOP) is affected by factors like age, gender, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure among others. Studies have investigated the relationship between IOP and age, gender, BMI, and refractive error (3-5). There has been conflicting results as some studies have reported a correlation between IOP and age, gender, BMI, and refractive error while results from other studies found no such association.

Aim:

The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between IOP and age, gender, body mass index and refractive status in the primary open angle glaucoma (POAG) and non-glaucomatous eyes.

Methods:

A case controlled study involving consecutive newly diagnosed POAG and non-glaucomatous patients conducted in the eye clinic of Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki. Demographic data included age, gender, and occupation. Height and weight were measured using a Standing Scale with calibrated metal rule. BMI was calculated as Weight (kg) / [Height (m)] 2). IOP was measured with Perkins hand-held applanation tonometer. Correlation and regression analysis was used to determine the relationship between IOP and age, gender, BMI and refractive status.

Results:

There was a direct relationship between age and IOP in non-glaucomatous subjects which was statistically significant (P < 0.001; r = 0.8). Intraocular pressure also increased with increasing age in POAG but this was not statistically significant (P = 0.18; r =0.3). There was no statistically significant difference between mean IOP in males and females of both POAG and non-glaucoma patients, with P = 0.72 and P = 0.50 respectively. BMI had a linear relationship with intraocular pressure which was statistically significant in POAG (P = 0.01; r value = 0.3) but showed no such relationship in non-glaucomatous patients (P = 0.38; r value = 0.1). The relationship between mean IOP and refractive status was not statistically significant in non-glaucomatous (P = 0.19; r = 0.2) and POAG patients (P = 0.5; r = 0.09) respectively.

Conclusion:

IOP has linear correlation with increasing age in both non-glaucomatous patients and POAG. A statistically significant relationship was found between IOP and BMI in POAG but not in non-glaucomatous eyes. There was no relationship between either the gender, or refractive status and IOP in non-glaucoma and POAG subjects respectively.
Multivariate Analysis and Scoring Prediction Model of Risk Factors for Atrial Fibrillation after Stroke: A Retrospective Study in Indonesia
Authors: Permana SA , Purwoko  , Sunjoyo A , Santoso SB , Thamrin MH
Published: October 2024

Background:

Several studies have shown that atrial fibrillation (AF) detected after stroke (AFDAS) occurs in approximately 23.7% of patients with ischemic stroke.

Aim:

This study aimed to determine the relationship between the type, location, volume, and therapy of stroke as risk factors for AF.

Methods:

This retrospective study was composed of adult patients diagnosed with stroke in the High Care Unit (HCU) of Dr. Moewardi General Hospital. The type and location of stroke, hemorrhage volume, history of medication administration, and serum low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-c) level were studied. Multivariate regression was used to determine the risk factor scoring for AF likelihood after diagnosis.

Results:

From 549 included patients, 262 (47.7%) had AF. The elderly (55.9%) and women (52.1%) constituted the majority of the study population. Seven variables that significantly contributed to AF incidence were ischemic stroke (AOR 4.12, CI 2.40–7.07, P < 0.001), cerebral cortex location (AOR 2.34, CI 1.35–4.06, P = 0.003), administration of the neuroprotective agent (AOR 0.24, CI 0.15–0.41, P < 0.001), history of hypertension (AOR 2.46, CI 1.09–5.56, P = 0.031), coronary heart disease (AOR 7.61, CI 3.82–15.15, P < 0.001), heart failure (AOR 2.80, CI 1.37–5.73, P = 0.005), and serum LDL-c with a cutoff level of 112 mg/dL (AOR 5.10, CI 3.04–8.57, P < 0.001). A scoring system from logistic regression analysis showed that a score of >1.7 may be interpreted as a risk factor AF.

Conclusion:

A scoring system from the risk factors can be used to predict the probability of AFDAS.
Correlation between ultrasound features and histopathological finding in cases of adenomyosis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Basha Amira , Abdallah Manal M. , Elshourbagy Shahinaz , Elnamoury Mohamed
Published: October 2024

Background

Adenomyosis is a gynecological disorder characterized by hypertrophy and hyperplasia of the surrounding myometrium and the presence of ectopic endometrial glands and stroma inside the myometrium.

Aims

To compare the accuracy of preoperative ultrasound (US) features with the histopathological results for the diagnosis of adenomyosis, and to determine its sensitivity for diagnosis.

Patients and methods

A total of 100 perimenopausal and postmenopausal patients (aged 40 to 60 years old) presented with abnormal uterine bleeding. Every patient underwent a thorough history taking, general examination, and pelvic examination. The selected patients were subjected to all laboratory investigations, abdominal and vaginal US, and abdominal or vaginal hysterectomy followed by histopathological examination.

Results

45 (45%) patients had adenomyosis by transvaginal US and 52 (52%) patients had adenomyosis by histopathology with a P value of 0.105 which means that there is no significant difference between transvaginal US and histopathology in the diagnosis of adenomyosis. Transvaginal US had an 89.0% diagnostic accuracy for adenomyosis, with 82.7% sensitivity, 95.8% specificity, 95.6% positive predictive value, and 83.6% negative predictive value.

Conclusion

Transvaginal US is an important diagnostic technique for adenomyosis, and there is no significant difference between ultrasound and histology in the diagnosis of the condition.
Lateral rectus resection versus lateral rectus plication in patients with residual esotropia
Authors: Elshobary Marwa K.A. , Arafa ElSayed S. , Shafik Heba M. , El-Marakby Omnia O.
Published: October 2024

Background

Muscle resection or plication is a common treatment for strabismus by strengthening the muscle.

Lateral rectus muscle resection is a basic surgical technique for correcting residual esotropia. Plication approach is an alternative surgical technique to resection.

Aim

Is to compare the result of lateral rectus plication versus lateral rectus resection in patients with residual esotropia.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective, comparative, randomized interventional study which was carried on 40 eyes of 20 patients with residual esotropia All the patients underwent surgery to both eyes, they were divided into two groups according to surgical technique. Group A: 20 eyes of 10 patients underwent lateral rectus resection surgery. Group B: 20 eyes of 10 patients underwent lateral rectus plication.

Results

Postoperative success rate in two groups was 80% with main postoperative angle of deviation higher on group B.

Conclusion

Lateral rectus muscle plication technique is an alternative to resection that has the same effect as resection as obvious by the similar success rate that can be used on horizontal muscles especially when anterior ciliary vessel sparing is needed.
Evaluation of corneal biomechanical changes in moderate myopia after different techniques of corneal refractive surgeries
Authors: Shady Huda G. , Elseht Rabab M. , Hasby Hesham A. , Abdel-Halim Tamer I.
Published: October 2024

Background

The most prevalent refractive error, which accounts for between 15 and 49% of cases worldwide, is myopia. Refractive surgery can fix refractive problems and lessen reliance on glasses or contact lenses.

Aim

This study aims to assess corneal biomechanical alterations following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and femtosecond laser small incision lenticule extraction (F-SMILE) in moderate myopic patients using CORVIS-ST (CST).

Patients and methods

This prospective, comparative, nonrandomized study was conducted on 40 patients’ eyes. with moderate myopia in a private center from January 2020 to December 2020, these eyes were subdivided into two groups: (a) The first group included 20 eyes that will receive PRK (b) The second group included 20 eyes that will receive F-SMILE. All participants will undergo operative (History taking, and examinations), preoperative (PRK, and F-SMILE), and postoperative (medications and Follow-up examinations) evaluations.

Results

Significant differences existed among the two groups in postoperative follow-up after 1 month and 6 months regarding deformation amplitude, radius, corvis biomechanical index, and intraocular pressure corrected biomechanically but There were insignificant differences among the two groups in terms of SPA in the same periods postoperatively.

Conclusion

Laser refractive surgery has a major impact on corneal biomechanical properties, as evidenced by significant changes in Corvis ST ocular biomechanical measures following PRK and F-SMILE procedures in myopic patients. The alterations resulting from F-SMILE are more substantial compared with PRK.
Speckle tracking echocardiography of right and left ventricles in children of atrial septal defect and ventricular septal defect
Authors: Amer Samah M. , El Nemr Shimaa B. , El Amrosy Doaa M. , Elrasol Osama A.R.
Published: October 2024

Background

Speckle tracking echocardiography (STE) is utilized to evaluate and quantify the heart muscle’s strain and deformation.

Aim

To assess early myocardial insult in children with atrial septal defect (ASD)/ventricular septal defect (VSD) using STE and to assess left ventricular (LV) and right ventricular (RV) systolic function using STE.

Patients and methods

This cross-sectional study involved 40 infants and children having isolated VSD or isolated secundum ASD and 20 healthy children as controls. Tissue Doppler and STE were performed to assess the systolic function of RV and LV in these children.

Results

RV and LV functions in cases with ASD by tissue Doppler measures were insignificantly different between ASD and the control group. Regarding LV function in the ASD group, systolic strain rate (SS) exhibited significantly greater values among ASD cases as opposed to controls (P<0.05). Regarding RV function within the ASD group, SS, systolic function (S), early diastolic strain rate (E’), and late diastolic strain rate (A’) exhibited insignificant variance among ASD cases as well as controls. Regarding LV functions, SS, S, E’, and A’ by STE exhibited insignificantly variance among VSD cases and controls. Regarding RV functions, SS and A’ were significantly different when measured by STE between VSD cases and the control group.

Conclusions

Speckling tracking use showed potential benefits while assessing LV/RV function among cases of ASD as well as VSD.
The effect of glycemic levels on Doppler indices and pregnancy outcome in pregestational and gestational diabetic pregnant women
Authors: Zedan Sohair R.M. , El-ghorab Nagwa M. , El-Ebiary Mona T. , El-Masry Yasmine I.
Published: October 2024

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is characterized as a condition where there is a varying degree of intolerance to glucose, which occurs or is initially identified throughout pregnancy.

Aim

To evaluate the impact of glycemic control on Doppler indices of uterine, umbilical, and middle cerebral arteries (MCA) in pregestational and GDM women and to correlate alterations in maternal levels of glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and Doppler indices related to pregnancy outcome.

Patients and methods

This prospective comparative cross-sectional work was performed on 84 diabetic patients aged from 20 to 43 years old, pregnant women with singleton living fetus, at booking, gestational age (GA) 24–28 weeks gestation. The participants categorized into two groups equal: group A: Pregestational diabetes and group B: GDM.

Results

There was an insignificant correlation between mean HbA1c % and BMI, GA, and doppler velocimetry mean results pulsatility index (PI) of uterine artery (UtA), PI of umbilical artery (UA) and PI of MCA. Pregestational diabetic pregnant women was a significantly positive association with UtA PI. There was insignificant association with Age, UA PI, Middle cerebral artery PI, fasting blood sugar, 2 h postprandial blood sugar, HbA1c (%). Gestational Diabetic pregnant women had insignificant associations with age, UtA PI, UA PI, MSA PI, fasting blood sugar, 2 h postprandial blood sugar, HbA1c. Ultrasound findings, amniotic fluid index, weight, PI of UtA, PI of UA.

Conclusion

Pregestational and GDM were not correlated with irregularities in Doppler indices of uterine, umbilical, and MCA.
Comparison of optimized surface ablation and combined customized plus optimized surface ablation in myopic eyes
Authors: Abd-Elghany Fatma H.F. , Nassar El-Sayed A. , Sabry Moataz M. , Nagy Khaled A.
Published: October 2024

Background

Proscan treats errors of refraction without affecting asphericity, while customized treatment treats correction with high-order aberration (HOA). Recently, Zyoptix HD has been used in the treatment of preoperative HOA and lower-order aberrations without inducing spherical aberrations.

Aim

To compare the visual outcomes and HOAs after optimized surface ablation versus Zyoptix HD surface ablation for myopia.

Patients and methods

A prospective comparative clinically controlled study was conducted on patients who have myopia, 40 eyes of 20 patients divided into two groups. Group I: 20 eyes underwent optimized surface ablation.

Group II: 20 eyes underwent customized plus optimized surface ablation.

The selection of treatment was according to root mean square and spherical aberration corneal topography. All participants were examined by a slit lamp just after the operation, on the first, third, seventh postoperative day, weekly for 1 month, then biweekly for 3 months.

The patients had full follow-up by best corrected visual acuity, slit lamp, Orbscan IIZ, and wavefront aberrometry using Zywave after 3 months of procedure.

Results

The comparison between preoperative uncorrected visual acuity and 3 months postoperative uncorrected visual acuity improved significantly in both groups but better in group II. The comparison between preoperative and 3 months postoperative root mean square in group I increased significantly, and in group II improved significantly, which is better in group II.

Conclusion

Zyoptix HD is superior to optimized surface ablation in the correction of low-order and high-order eye aberrations, correcting myopia and visual acuity.
Performance of infiltration trenches in different soils in native vegetation and urban area of the Federal District of Brazil
Authors: Pereira Greison Santos , Alves Conceição de Maria Albuquerque , Leão Tairone Paiva
Published: October 2024

The increase in flooding events in major cities has driven the search for new strategies that incorporate Low Impact Development (LID) units into urban drainage. This research analyzes the performance of infiltration trenches to determine flow and infiltration physical parameters in different soil types in the Federal District of Brazil (FDB), comparing urban area and preserved Cerrado biome. The results show that most soils in the Federal District of Brazil have good infiltration conditions, particularly the Red Latosol and Red-Yellow Latosol. Infiltration trenches were effective in storing significant volumes of water, especially during initial runoff events where favorable soil moisture conditions exist. The Regolithic Neosol exhibited low infiltrability, making its use for infiltration trenches not recommended.
Keywords: cerrado, infiltration trench, red latosol.
Inter-laminar Strength of NITE-SiC/SiC Composites with Various Fiber Reinforcing Architecture
Authors: Kim Jong-il
Published: October 2024

The mechanical performance of SiC/SiC composites is significantly influenced by the architecture of fiber reinforcement. Among the various fabrication methods, the nano-powder infiltration transition/eutectic (NITE) process is a promising technique that is capable of achieving a dense and stoichiometric SiC matrix. The reinforcement architecture, such as cross-ply (CP) or woven prepreg (WP), is determined during the preform stage of the NITE process, which is crucial in determining the mechanical properties of SiC/SiC composites. In this study, the tensile test and double notch shear (DNS) test were conducted using NITE-SiC/SiC composites to investigate the effect of the fiber reinforcing architecture on the fracture mechanism of SiC/SiC composites. The tensile strength and maximum shear strength of both CP and WP specimens were nearly identical. However, other mechanical properties, particularly those of CP specimens, exhibited significant variability. A comparison of fracture surfaces and load-displacement curve analyses from the DNS tests revealed that the cross points of the longitudinal or transverse fibers act as obstacles to both deformation and crack propagation. These obstacles were found to be more densely distributed in WP specimens than in CP specimens. The variability observed in the mechanical properties of CP specimens is likely due to size effects caused by the sparser distribution of these obstacles compared to the WP specimens.
Assessment of medical doctors' knowledge of new psychoactive substances and their neurobehavioural effects
Authors: Eziagu Evelyn Osemhen , Nkanga Eno-obong , Nwankwo Chidimma Ezinne , Ayorinde Ayoyinka A. , Erhunmwunsee Margaret Egan , Sunday Seyi Ogundipe , Uma Uma Agwu , Chimezie Emedoh Thomas , Uchechukwu Brian Eziagu
Published: October 2024

New Psychoacve Substances (NPS), also known as designer drugs, pose significant public health risks due to their potent psychoacve  properes and potenal neurobehavioural effects. Medical doctors play a crucial role in idenfying and addressing the health risks associated with NPS use. This study assessed medical doctors' knowledge of NPS and their neurobehavioral effects. A cross-seconal  online survey of licensed medical doctors was conducted, revealing varying levels of awareness and knowledge regarding NPS. While respondents showed familiarity with NPS terminology and street names, gaps existed, parcularly concerning specific NPS categories. This  underscores the importance of enhancing medical professionals' understanding of NPS to ensure comprehensive paent care and  informed treatment decisions.
Valuation of prescription patterns of Helicobacter pylori drugs in outpatient department, Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital
Authors: Patel Harshika , Kwamboka Agneta , Magembe Dennis , Manyinsa Erickson , Ouma Kevine
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND                                   
Helicobacter pylori infects up to half of the world’s population. Infection with Helicobacter pylori is a major contributing factor for gastric ulcers, gastric carcinoma, and extra gastric disease. The main aim of this study was to observe the prescription patterns of Helicobacter pylori drugs at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital, Meru. This infection is mostly treated by a triple-drug regimen for successful eradication. The available regimens are a combination of proton pump inhibitors, antibiotics, bismuth sulfate, and histamine blockers.
METHODOLOGY                                               
A cross-sectional retrospective review of the patient files for Helicobacter pylori was done at Meru Teaching and Referral Hospital (MeTRH). Systematic random sampling was used to select 262 medical records for review. Data was collected using the pre-tested abstraction forms and was coded and analyzed for descriptive statistics.
RESULTS                                                         
Out of the 262 medical records that were reviewed, 147 (56.4%) were males prescribed the Helicobacter pylori drug regimen. Among all the young adults (age: 12-39 years) were more likely to get Helicobacter pylori infection. The medication regimens that were highly preferred at MeTRH were 14-day and 7-day clarithromycin triple-based therapy. The 14-day triple therapy accounted for 74.5% of all patient files. The most administered drug class for Helicobacter pylori were proton pump inhibitors at 45.3% followed by antibiotics at 38.8% and the least prescribed drugs were the H2 blockers with 15.9%.
CONCLUSION                                     
Regarding the most prescribed drug, the proton pump inhibitors while the most preferred regimen was the 14-day clarithromycin triple-based therapy. This data will certainly be important for the pharmaceutical management chain to manage the stock of analyzed drugs and also can spread awareness regards the appropriate handling of drugs which can improve adherence and reduce the rate of treatment failure and the emergence of antibiotic drug resistance.
The applications of nanocatalysts in the synthesis of heterocyclic compounds
Authors: Sultan Alwan Ensaf
Published: October 2024

Nanocatalysts in heterocyclic synthesis are a very important direction in producing eco-friendly compounds. These catalysts can be reused up to six times without losing their quantity and efficiency. Most of these nanocatalysts are cheap, available, economical and safe for the environment. In this review, I focused on the synthesis of furans, pyrans, chromenes and thiazoles from nanocatalysts. For example, pyranopyrazoles 8a-c were synthesized by the multicomponent reactions between aldehydes 4a-c, malononitrile (5), ethyl acetoacetate (6) and hydrazine hydrate (7) using titanium dioxide as a nanocatalyst.
KEY WORDS: Heterocyclic, Chromenes, Nanocatalysts, Eco-friendly compounds
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 123-129.                                                         
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.10
Chemoselective metal free deallylation of α-allyl-phenyl-carboxylic esters under reduction condition
Authors: R. Nawghare Beena , R. Joshi Rekha , D. Lokhande Pradeep
Published: October 2024

A simple and efficient method for chemoselective deallylation of –COO-allyl group in presence of C-allyl group has been developed. C-allyl cleavage of α-methylene compounds was successfully completed by refluxing with excess sodium borohydride in methanol. The reagent's stability, ready availability and ease of handling encourage its usage for deallylation.                                                                         
KEY WORDS: C-allyl cleavage, Sodium borohydride, Chemoselectivity, Reduction
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 131-139.                                                         
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.11
Thermodynamic study of pyridoxine in different solvents and temperatures: DFT study
Authors: B. Rasho Khalil , M. Al-Healy Fanar
Published: October 2024

The equivalent conductivities (Λ) of B6 vitamin (pyridoxine) in HշՕ and MeOH were measured at different temperatures between 293 to 313 K, as well as in mixtures of H₂O and MeOH at percentages of 10, 20, 30, 40, and, 50% MeOH at 310 K. All the practical results were mathematically processed using the Lee Wheaton equation, which is applied to the derived conductivity of electrolytes with a similar composition (1:1). This equation calculates various conductivity components, including the equivalent conductance at infinite dilution (Λₒ), the ionic conductivity, the distance between ions (R), and also the constant of ionic aggregation (Ka) at best-fit values of (ϬΛ). The values of these parameters differed from one solvent to another depending on the molecular interactions in the solution and the physical properties of the solvents, such as viscosity and dielectric constant. Finally, thermodynamic quantities for the ion association reaction (ΔG°, ΔH°, and ΔS°) were also studied. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations (B3LYP/6-31G (d,p)) were employed to analyze vitamin B6 in the gas phase and diverse solvents. Three different continuum methods, namely AM1, PM3, and HF, were utilized, followed by DFT. The final method was utilized to explore the effects on its characteristics.
KEY WORDS: Electrical conductivity, Lee-Wheaton equation, Theoretical chemistry, DFT.
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 165-176.                                                        
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.14
Electrical conductance study of Schiff base in different solvents and temperatures: DFT calculation
Authors: M. Aran Marwan , H. Abdulrahman Shaymaa
Published: October 2024

The electrical conductivities of the N-(2-chlorobenzylidene)benzylamine (NCB) as Schiff bases (SB) compound in water and methanol were studied in different temperatures, the mixtures of methanol and water studied in various percentages of methanol at 298 K. Initially, the relationship between equivalent conductivity and the square root of molar concentration was plotted to find electrolyte types using Kohlrausch equations. The plot indicates that NCB was weakly associated with water, methanol, and mixtures. Lee-Wheaton equation treated the experimental results of symmetrical electrolytes (1:1) to calculate the conductivity confines: equivalent conductance at infinite dilution Λₒ, association constant KA, and the main distance between ions in solution (R) at best-fit values of (ϬΛ). Thermodynamic quantities for the ion association reaction (∆Go, ∆Ho and ∆So) have been measured. Also, the theoretical calculation was used to optimize the energy of the molecule in the gas phase then measured many descriptors by using (AM1, PM3) then DFT. In addition, recalculated the optimization energy in water, and methanol. After theoretical calculation and analysis, it was found that the Λₒ value is related to the molecular volume of the system (molecules assembled in the solvent). As the molecular volume increases, the Λₒ value decreases due to association.
KEY WORDS: Schiff bases, Electrical conductivities, Lee-Wheaton equation, Thermodynamic parameter, DFT
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 177-187.                                                         
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.15
Synthesis and structural studies on zinc(II) macrocyclic and hetrocyclic complexes derived from schiff base and mixed ligands of 1,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-dione, orthophenylene diamine and hydroquinone
Authors: Lemecha Gemechu , Taye Asmamw , Getachew Negash
Published: October 2024

In this study two new zinc(II) complexes involving oxygen and nitrogen donor sequences derived from 1,4-dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-dione (QXD), o-phenylenediamine (OPD) and hydroquinone (HQ) were synthesized through a template procedure. The structural elucidation of these complexes was carried out using measurement of molar conductance in 1x10-3 M solution of DMSO and various spectral techniques; 1H and 13C NMR, FT-IR, UV-VIS and AAS. The results showed that the zinc(II) ion coordinates with the Schiff base ligands in octahedral geometry, leading to the formation of stable macrocyclic and heterocyclic structures. The cyclic ligand (L) was found to coordinate as NNNN donor, through four imine nitrogen atoms which were formed up on condensation of the –NH2 groups on o-phenylenediamine with C=O group on quinoxaline dione in a 2:2 mole ratio, in the presence of one mole equivalent of ZnCl2 in ethanol medium. It also indicates the formation of a new mixed ligand zinc(II) complex with an OO OO O O coordination around zinc(II). The study contributes to the understanding of the coordination chemistry of zinc(II) with Schiff bases and provides insights into the development of novel zinc-based complex compounds. 
KEY WORDS: Macrocyclic and mixed ligand, 1,4-Dihydroquinoxaline-2,3-dione, o-Phenylenediamine, Hydroquinone
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 49-64.                                                              
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.4
Biological activity of azo quinoline dye and its palladium(II) complex
Authors: Din Kadhoum Alzamili Saif , Shamran Mohammed Hasan , Mothhar Muslim Taif
Published: October 2024

Azo dye derived from 8-hydroxyquinoline and 3-aminopyridine namely (E)-5-(pyridin-3-yldiazenyl)quinolin-8-ol (PQ8OL) and its palladium complex were prepared and was characterized by H-NMR, UV-Vis, and mass spectroscopies. The value of conductivity indicates that the palladium complex is non-ionic. The structure of PQ8OL dye has been solved from powder X-Ray by using Material Studio. The structure has been indicated to hydrazone form of PQ8OL dye. The PQ8OL has coordinated via nitrogen and oxygen atoms of quinoline. The UV-Vis transitions indicated that the palladium complex is square planer. The palladium complex appeared biological activity more than PQ8OL ligand. The prepared compounds appeared potential biological activity in the range of 0.6-2.0 mm against Staphylococcus aureus and E. coli bacteria. The PQ8OL ligand and its palladium complex showed potential inhibition where the inhibition was 1.0 and 6.0 mm for PQ8OL ligand and palladium complex respectively against Staphylococcus aureus. The inhibition for E. coli, by the ligand and its palladium complex was 2.0, and 7.0 mm, respectively.
KEY WORDS: Biological activity, Palladium(II) complex, Quinoline, Crystal, Pyridine
Bull. Chem. Soc. Ethiop. 2025, 39(1), 91-100.                                                               
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.4314/bcse.v39i1.7
Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) in farmland soils of Kumo Akko Local Government Area, Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Usman Y. M. , Pantami H. A,. , Ndahi J. A. , Modibbo U. U. , Abdullahi Z. A. , Yau A. , Baka E. F. , Liman I.A.
Published: October 2024

This work investigated the Prevalence and Impact of Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs) In Farmland Soil within the Vicinity of Kumo, Gombe State, Nigeria. by employing a combination of field sampling and laboratory analysis. The research aimed to analyze the present of the concentrations of POPs in farmland soils using GC-MS. Samples were collected from three different locations and analyzed, their content of POPs per sample area determined the major components present. The results obtained indicated the POPs components of each soil sample. The research revealed that eight components of POPs such as naphthalene with a retention time of 5.02 minutes amounting to a highest composition of 0.004141 ppm followed by acenaphthene with a retention time of 8.82 minutes which showed 0.00395 ppm. Moreover, phenanthrene showed the least concentration of 0.000139 ppm with a retention time of 12.5 minutes. The physical parameters of the farmland soil revealed the mean pH values of sample soil investigated with S3 having the highest value of 6.01 followed by S1 with pH value of 5.95, while S2 showed the lowest pH value of 5.20. This showed that the acidity value increase in the order of S2=5.20 < S1=5.95<S3=6.01 respectively.
Framework for the detection and classification of malware using machine learning
Authors: Akinshola-Awe Funmilayo Jumoke , Obiniyi A.A. , Aimufua Gilbert I.O. , Anyachebelu Tochukwu Kene
Published: October 2024

Malware constitute a major threat to Network Infrastructure which are vulnerable to several devastating Malware attacks such as Virus and Ransomware. Traditional Antimalware software provides limited efficiency against Malware removal due to evolving evasion techniques capabilities of Malware such as polymorphism. Antimalware only removes Malware they have signatures for and are ineffective and helpless against zero day attack, several research works have made use of supervised and unsupervised learning algorithms to detect and classify Malware but False Positives prevails. This research made use of Machine Learning to detect and classify Malware by employing Machine Learning techniques including Feature Selection techniques as well as Grid Search hyperparameter optimization. Principal Component Analysis was combined with Chi Square to cure the curse of dimensionality. Support Vector Machine, K Nearest Neighbor and Decision Tree were used to train the model separately with two datasets. The research model was evaluated with Confusion Matrix, Precision, Recall and F1 Score. Accuracy of 99%,98.64% and 100% was achieved with K Nearest Neighbor, Decision Tree and Support Vector Machine respectively using CICMalmem dataset which has equal number of Malware and Benign files, K Nearest Neighbor achieved no False Positive. Accuracy of 97.7%,70% and 96% was achieved with K Nearest Neighbor, Decision Tree and Support Vector Machine respectively with Dataset_Malware.csv dataset, K Nearest Neighbor achieved False Positives of 38.The Model was trained separately with default hyperparameters of the chosen algorithms as well as the optimal hyperparameters obtained from Grid Search and it was discovered that optimizing hyperparameters and combining features obtained with Principal Component Analysis and Chi Square to train the Model using the dataset with equal number of Benign and Malicious files(CICMalmem dataset) yielded optimal performance with Support Vector Machine. Future works includes employing deep learning and ensemble learning as classifiers as well as implementing other hyperparameter optimization techniques.
Malnutrition and associated co-morbidities among infants affected by Boko Haram Insurgency in some IDP Camps in Borno state, Nigeria
Authors: Joseph Elisha , Joseph Dimas Skam , Danjuma Mary , Shuaibu Rabiu Muhammad , Obani Kenneth Onyedikachi , Joseph Dlama Zirra , Shuaibu Adamu , Tsiam Christiana Joseph , Mohammed Musluideen Jimoh
Published: October 2024

Malnutrition is a major problem in developing countries. In recent times, diet related diseases have been recorded in Borno state, Nigeria due to insurgency. The study assessed the socio demographics and comorbidities in malnourished children from six months to fifty-nine months. Ethically approved permission was obtained. Retrospective cohort study of severe acute malnutrition was carried out in 1558 patients from January 2021 to December 2021 in five IDP camp clinics. The minimum and maximum stay in the program were 8 weeks and 12 weeks, respectively. Data collected were analysed using SPSS version 18. The female patients dominated the study with 868 (55.7 %) while the males were 690 (44.3 %). Patients who completed their treatment, recovered and were discharged were 1488 (95.5 %), defaulters were 64 (4.1 %) and deaths were 6 (0.4 %). The co-morbidities recorded in the SAM patients were cough, diarrhoea, vomiting and fever with 184 (11.8 %), 183 (11.7 %), 31 (2.0%) and 11 (7%), respectively. Severe acute malnutrition (SAM) patients with multiple co-morbidities of cough and diarrhoea were 136 (8.7 %) while those with cough, vomiting and diarrhoea were 5 (0.3%). Timely interventions can save the lives of children presenting with SAM and recommend that therapeutic feeding programs be extended to the wider society to prevent death and compromised future of SAM sufferers, effective nutritional education for care givers and parents of SAM children should be encouraged to stay in the program until their children recover.
Impact of oxygen vacancies on the structural, electronic, and optical properties of Cu2O and nitrogen-doped Cu2O for optoelectronic applications: a first-principles study
Authors: Idowu Ibrahim Ismail , Mohammed Lawal , Umar Sadiq , Uzairu Adamu , Yusuf Bashir , Itas Yahaya Saadu
Published: October 2024

This study utilizes Density Functional Theory (DFT) within the Quantum ESPRESSO framework to explore the effects of oxygen vacancies and nitrogen doping on the electronic structure and optical properties of cuprous oxide (Cu2O). Pristine Cu2O, an intrinsic p-type semiconductor, typically exhibits a direct band gap. Introducing an oxygen vacancy in the absence of a dopant broadens the band structure, leading to both direct and indirect band gap characteristics. In contrast, nitrogen doping transforms the band gap into a direct one, significantly reducing it from 1.97 eV to 1.09 eV, which deviates from previous findings due to potential variations in the initial state of the Cu2O host crystal. Furthermore, spin-polarization effects indicate spin-dependent behaviour within the material. The study also examines the absorption properties of pristine, defective, and nitrogen-doped Cu2O systems using the complex dielectric function. The results show distinct absorption peaks and transitions, with nitrogen-doped Cu2O exhibiting strong absorption in the visible light range, underscoring its potential for solar cell applications.