bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of CoronaVirus Disease-19 Lockdown on Physical Activity and Energy Expenditure among Middle Adolescence - A Cross-Sectional E-Survey
Authors: Rathod Vandana Jivatsinh
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim:

Coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) is a pandemic disease spreading throughout the world. Lockdown declared by the Indian government to control the spread of this disease leads to change an entire lifestyle of the population. Individual's lives are greater affected due to lockdown which leads to a reduction in their physical activity (PA). It might increase the chance of infection by reducing immunity. How much PA is reduced during this lockdown period among middle adolescence is not known. This study attempts to find out PA level and energy expenditure (EE) among middle adolescence during the lockdown.

Materials and Methods:

One hundred and twenty-three volunteered students participated in an open e-survey. The survey was carried out by the International PA questionnaire-short form through social networking sites during the COVID-19 lockdown period through the Google Forms link. PA and EE have been measured.

Results:

Among identified 147 potential survey participants, 123 responded. Total PA during COVID–19 lockdown period was 6262.21 metabolic equivalent task-min/week. While EE during COVID–19 lockdown period was 6009.28 cal/week.

Conclusions:

A significant reduction in self-report PA and EE levels was observed among middle adolescent students during the COVID–19 lockdown period.
Successful Postoperative Pain Management by a Surgeon-Assisted Interfascial Plane Block under Vision in Patients Undergoing Modified Radical Mastectomy
Authors: Joshi Richa , Dwivedi Deepak , Kaur Kaminder Bir , Paul Debashish
Published: June 2021

As anatomical structures get exposed intraoperatively, we present a case series of 18 patients of the surgeon-assisted interfascial plane block with local anesthetic infiltration between pectoralis minor and serratus anterior (SA) and between SA and latissimus dorsi for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing modified radical mastectomy. Surgeons infiltrated 25 ml of 0.25% bupivacaine with dexmedetomidine (0.5 μg/kg) in the above-mentioned plane after the completion of axillary dissection and the removal of axillary content en bloc with the breast. The median pain score was assessed by numeric rating scale for pain. This score was <3 with no requirement of rescue analgesia in the first 24 h postoperatively. Intraoperative hemodynamic parameters were stable, and there was no adverse event. Hence, surgeon-assisted interfascial plane block under vision can be a feasible option for providing adequate postoperative analgesia.
Evaluation of Anti-Microbial Usage using World Health Organization-Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Methodology in Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital of Central India
Authors: Singh Alok , Sahoo Ajaya Kumar , Dhaneria Suryaprakash , Thangraju Pugazhenthan , Gupta Dhyuti
Published: June 2021

Antimicrobial agents are the most common group of drugs prescribed, especially in inpatients, as well as contribute highest in the drug-related expenses. To gather an overview regarding the utilization pattern of antimicrobials among hospitalized patients, this retrospective study was conducted for the patients admitted in 2019. The present study was conducted at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Raipur, wherein the 600 medical records (50*12) of different departments for the year 2019 were chosen randomly for evaluation. Information regarding the number of beds, occupancy, demography, strength, route, and amount of drug that prescribed was noted for each month. Antimicrobial utilization was performed using the World Health Organization Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose (DDD) methodology. Antimicrobial drugs which were prescribed at least 5% of patients were evaluated in detail, and their prescribed daily dose (PDD) and anti-microbial consumption index was calculated and compared with their defined-daily dose. Monthly consumption of antimicrobials was noted and summed to get consumption for the whole year. Most of the records encountered while collecting data were of female patients, with an overall mean age of 42.4 years. Moreover, the records were largely from the patients who were admitted in either of the surgical departments. For the in-patients with an average duration of hospitalization of 6.56 days, the mean number of antimicrobials prescribed per prescription was observed to be 1.41. Highest consumption units were of ceftriaxone in 2019. The PDD of azithromycin and piperacillin + tazobactam was different from their DDD. For majority of antimicrobials, the calculated PDD was close to their DDD. The consumption was noted to be disproportionately higher in the 4 months of 2019 (September–December). Moreover, ceftriaxone was found to be prescribed routinely in the clinical practice.
Oropharyngeal Muscle Strengthening Exercises in Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Chawla Nistara Singh , Kaur Anujot , Subramanian Thiagarajan
Published: June 2021

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common pattern of sleep-disordered breathing in the adult population. It is characterized by episodes of partial or complete cessation of breathing during sleep due to the collapse of the pharyngeal airway. OSA is involved in the pathogenesis of numerous cardiovascular and metabolic disorders. This study brings forth the case of a 54-year-old male who was experiencing breathing difficulty during sleep with recent episodes of sudden loss of consciousness followed by labored breathing and excessive sweating. He was diagnosed and treated for a bifascicular block. This was followed by the additional diagnosis of OSA. The treatment plan comprised a set of Oropharyngeal Muscle-Strengthening Exercises (OMSE). The daytime sleepiness was quantified using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Over the span of 6 weeks, an improvement of −2 points on the score was documented, which is considered to be statistically significant according to the ESS scale. From this case report, the authors concluded that OMSE can be used as an alternative treatment option for mild OSA. OMSE is a noninvasive, cost-effective intervention for mild OSA that provides long-term benefits to the patient. Timely diagnosis and intervention can help in improving the quality of life of the patient.
Suicidal Thoughts, Suicidal Attempts, and Nonsuicidal Self-Injury among Undergraduate Health Professionals
Authors: Patel Vishal Kanaiyalal , Bhatt Renish Bhuperndrabhai , Raja Hitarth Himanshu , Kumar Parveen , Tiwari Deepak Sachidanand , Vasavada Disha Alkeshbhai
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim:

Nonsuicidal selfinjury (NSSI) was observed in both males and females, with higher rate among females. NSSI could increase the risk of future suicide attempts. Adolescence is considered as stressful period because of identity crisis, physical growth, coupled with set of decision regarding future profession and personality traits. The study is aimed to find suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts, extent of the NSSI and its impact on the undergraduate health professionals.

Materials and Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out among medical, dental, and physiotherapy undergraduate college students of Jamnagar, Gujarat. A total of 1850 students were approached, out of them 1050 medical, 500 dental and 300 were physiotherapy students. Participants were requested to fill the pro forma containing following parts: (1) Demographic details, (2) Inventory of Statements about Self-injury, (3) Impact of Non-Suicidal Self-Injury Scale.

Results:

A total of 1408 students completed the pro forma. Overall 13.99% prevalence rate of NSSI was reported. Female participants had higher prevalence of self-harming behavior than male participants (χ2 = 24.226, P < 0.001). NSSI was related to suicidal thoughts and suicidal attempts with (χ2 = 263.050, P < 0.001) and (χ2 = 197.777, P < 0.001), respectively. A negative correlation was observed with age of onset of NSSI behaviors with and numbers of NSSI behavior (r = −0.317, P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Participants engaged in different NSSI behaviors for affect regulation, interpersonal boundaries, sensation seeking, self-punishment, revenge, and self-care. High prevalence of NSSI among young health professionals needs independent clinical attention. There is a need of crisis interventions for the management of self-harming behaviors and to prevent future fetal suicidal attempts.
Determinants of Depression and its Associated Coping Mechanisms among College Students Confined during COVID-19 Lockdown
Authors: Garg Sunny , Chauhan Alka , Singh Sanjeet , Bansal Kirti
Published: June 2021

Background and Aim:

During COVID-19 pandemic lockdown, mental health of students was highly pregnable to the loss of social connectedness, disarray of normal pattern of activities as well as academic issues. Adopted coping mechanisms may have played a significant role in surmounting the challenges related to the pandemic. The main aim of the survey is to evaluate the prevalence of depression, its determinants, and association with coping mechanisms among college students during COVID-19 lockdown.

Materials and Methods:

College students were invited during lockdown to participate in a nationwide cross-sectional e-survey using Snowball sampling technique (dated October 6–30, 2020). A total sample size of 920 was calculated. A self-administered questionnaire regarding sociodemographic characteristics, COVID-19-related experiences along with two scales (Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9] and Carver Brief-Coping Orientation to the Problem Experienced-28) for assessment of depression, and adopted coping mechanisms was applied to participants. Chi-square test, independent “t-” test, Pearson's correlation, and hierarchical multiple regression analysis were used to investigate the determinants of depression and its association with coping mechanisms in college students.

Results:

On analysis of 884 participants, it was revealed that 402 (45.5%) participants have depressive symptoms ranging from moderate to severe level. The mean score of PHQ-9 was 9.82 ± 6.61. Nearly 85% of the students were lagging behind in studies. Around 5%–10% of the students initiated/increased the consumption of substances. The main determinants of depression in this study were the age group of 21–24 years, thought of lagging behind in studies, and family members/friends/relatives diagnosed with COVID-19. Adaptive coping mechanisms (emotional support, religion, and humor) were significantly associated with lower depressive symptoms and maladaptive coping mechanisms (self-distraction, denial, behavioral disengagement, and venting) were significantly associated with higher depressive symptoms among students.

Conclusions:

This survey revealed multiple determinants of depression, mainly including academic worries among college students. The college staff should provide a well-structured pedagogical framework to encourage them and alleviate the unpleasant psychological effects of pandemic on students.
Food and Drug Interactions in Dermatology
Authors: Sinha Anwita , Neema Shekhar
Published: June 2021

Drug interaction is a common phenomenon and awareness about it has increased with the availability of online applications. The optimization of prescription also requires a physician to be aware of interaction of prescription drugs with food and herbs. Patients also commonly pose the question to prescribers about food–drug interactions, especially in our country. The prescriber should be aware of common food–drug interactions in dermatology for safe and effective prescription practices.
Crisaborole for the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis in Indian Patients
Authors: Godse Kiran , De Abhiesh , Sharma Nidhi , Rajagopalan Murlidhar , Shah Bela , Girdhar Mukesh , Zawar Vijay , Shankar Kupra , Godse Gauri , Patil Anant
Published: June 2021

Atopic dermatitis is a chronic inflammatory dermatological condition associated with intense pruritus seen in all age groups and ethnic diversities. It can have a significant impact on the quality of life. The options for treatment include skincare, topical therapies, systemic therapies, and phototherapy. Treatment of atopic dermatitis may be associated with several challenges including suboptimal efficacy, risk of adverse events, and limited patient satisfaction. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of atopic dermatitis has resulted in the evaluation of many treatment options. Phosphodiesterase 4 plays a role in the pathogenesis of atopic dermatitis and hence can be a target for treatment. Crisaborole 2% ointment is a phosphodiesterase 4 enzyme inhibitor approved for the treatment of mild-to-moderate atopic dermatitis in patients above 2 years of age by the USFDA. Currently, it is not approved for use in Indian patients. In this article, the role and potential place of crisaborole in the management of atopic dermatitis in Indian patients based on global experience and evidence is discussed.
A Multicentric, Prospective and Retrospective Analysis of Stevens–Johnson Syndrome, Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis and Stevens–Johnson Syndrome/Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis Overlap
Authors: Bhat Ramesh Marne , Jayaraman Jyothi , Suresha Navyashree , Dandekeri Sukumar , D'souza Myfanwy Joanne
Published: June 2021

Background:

Stevens Johnson syndrome (SJS) and Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) represent adverse drug reactions characterized by generalized rash, blisters, epidermal detachment, mucosal and systemic involvement presenting as dermatological emergencies. Drugs are the most common culprits implicated in the pathogenesis of SJS /TEN. The primary step in the management of SJS/TEN is identification and stopping the offending drug.

Materials and methods:

This was a multi-centric retrospective as well as prospective observational study conducted in 7 tertiary care hospitals including Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangalore, India. A detailed evaluation of the hospital in patient record for 10 years retrospective from September 2015 and all new cases of SJS/TEN as well as SJS-TEN overlap presenting to these centres for 1 year prospective was performed. Detailed history was taken and clinical examination was recorded and different modalities of treatment was noted and compared.

Results:

A total of 152 patients with clinical diagnosis of SJS, TEN and SJS-TEN overlap were analysed. Males were more commonly affected than females and history of drug intake was present in 118 patients (77.6%). The most common drugs which caused SJS/ TEN in our study were antibiotics in 40 patients (26.3%) followed by anti epileptics in 35 patients (23%) and nevirapine in 10 patients (6.5%). In our study the most common finding on cutaneous examination was maculopapular rash (19.3%).

Conclusion:

SJS and TEN form part of a spectrum of severe cutaneous drug reactions that can lead to high morbidity which can be reduced by early withdrawal of the offending drug and timely intervention. Individuals with known drug allergies need to be educated and drug allergy card has to be carried.
Complications of laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis
Authors: Sahay Pranita , Bafna Rahul Kumar , Reddy Jagadesh C , Vajpayee Rasik B , Sharma Namrata
Published: June 2021

Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is one of the most commonly performed kerato-refractive surgery globally. Since its introduction in 1990, there has been a constant evolution in its technology to improve the visual outcome. The safety, efficacy, and predictability of LASIK are well known, but complications with this procedure, although rare, are not unknown. Literature review suggests that intraoperative complications include suction loss, free cap, flap tear, buttonhole flap, decentered ablation, central island, interface debris, femtosecond laser-related complications, and others. The postoperative complications include flap striae, flap dislocation, residual refractive error, diffuse lamellar keratitis, microbial keratitis, epithelial ingrowth, refractive regression, corneal ectasia, and others. This review aims to provide a comprehensive knowledge of risk factors, clinical features, and management protocol of all the reported complications of LASIK. This knowledge will help in prevention as well as early identification and timely intervention with the appropriate strategy for achieving optimal visual outcome even in the face of complications.
Economizing strabismus surgery: Using half the double-armed suture for horizontal muscles
Authors: Kauser Farnaz , Amitava Abadan K , Saxena Juhi , Raza S Aisha , Masood Anam
Published: June 2021

In a developing country like India, both availability and affordability of medical care are obstacles, leading to delay in seeking timely treatment. To reduce the cost incurred to the patients for strabismus surgery, we used half of a 6-0 polyglactin suture for performing common muscle weakening and strengthening procedures: a fixed and hang back recessions with plication and resection. We cut the 45-cm-long double-armed 6-0 polyglactin sutures in two halves, and with a modified approach, used one-half in each of two patients planned for monocular two horizontal muscles surgeries: fixed recession-plication and hang back recession-resection. By devising an intuitive manner of threading a single armed 22.5 cm suture we successfully carried out horizontal extraocular muscle surgeries on each of two patients of exotropia. We believe in the long run, this will reduce the cost to individual patients and sponsoring groups, and suggest that strabismus surgeons consider adopting this option.
Relationship between peripapillary vessel density and visual function based on Garway-Heath sectorization in open-angle glaucoma
Authors: Kwon Jeong Min , Park Keunheung , Kim Sangyoon , Shin Jonghoon
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

To investigate the relationship between peripapillary vessel density (pVD) and visual field sensitivity (VFS) and between peripapillary retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (pRNFLT) and VFS, based on Garway-Heath sectorization in open-angle glaucoma patients.

Methods:

Sixty-six eyes of healthy subjects and 84 eyes of glaucoma subjects were included. All subjects underwent several eye examinations, including standard automated perimetry and optical coherence tomography angiography. Sectoral structure-function relationships based on the Garway-Heath sectorization were compared among normal subjects, the ‘mild glaucoma,’ and ‘moderate-to-severe glaucoma’ group. Multivariate analyses were performed for each sector to determine the factors related to VFS. The diagnostic abilities of vessel density parameters and RNFLT were evaluated by calculating the area under the receiver operating characteristic curves (AUROC).

Results:

The correlation between pVD-VFS and pRNFLT-VFS was statistically significant in the glaucoma group independent of the VFS sector. In the glaucoma group, VFS in the temportal sector was statistically related in a multivariate model to pVD, pRNFLT and age (R2 = 0.721; P = 0.007, < 0.001, .15, respectively). We found pRNFLT and age were significantly associated with VFS in glaucoma. The AUROC values of pVD in the inferotemporal sector of the total, mild, and moderate-to-severe glaucoma (0.843, 0.714, and 0.972, respectively) were comparable to pRNFLT in this sector (0.833, 0.718, 0.948, respectively).

Conclusion:

Since the relationship between pVD and VFS in the papillomacular area was significant, measuring pVD and RNFLT in the corresponding area will be valuable in expanding our pathophysiologic knowledge of the paracentral field defects in glaucoma.
Profile of complications in pterygium surgery - A retrospective analysis
Authors: Kodavoor Shreesha K , V Preethi , Dandapani Ramamurthy
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

Analysis of complication profile after pterygium excision, in primary and recurrent pterygia.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of all the patients who had undergone pterygium excision in a tertiary center in South India from 2010 to 2018 was analyzed. A total of 2356 eyes in 2028 patients were included in the study. Patients who had undergone conjunctival autografting for primary pterygium, conjunctival limbal autografting for recurrent pterygium, vertical split conjunctival autografting for double head pterygium were included in the study. In all the surgical procedures fibrin glue was used for fixation of the autograft. The follow-up period ranged from 6 months to 75 months, with an average of 17 months. Patients with less than 6 months of follow-up were excluded from the study.

Results:

The following postoperative complications were noted, Sub-conjunctival hemorrhage in 912 eyes (38.7%), edema of the graft in 522 cases (22.15%), graft loss in 22 cases (0.93%), graft retraction in 692 cases (29.37%) and sliding of the graft was seen in 9 cases (0.38%). Granuloma was seen in 4 cases (0.16%) at the host site and 5 cases (0.21%) at the donor site. Recurrence was seen in 34 patients (1.44%). Other severe complications like corneal melt were seen in only 1 case (0.04%) who was operated on for recurrent pterygium. In comparison between primary and recurrent pterygia; subconjunctival hemorrhage, edema of the graft, graft loss, and recurrence was significantly (P < 0.05%) higher in recurrent pterygia.

Conclusion:

Various complications can occur post pterygium surgery as listed above. Selecting a proper procedure for a particular type of pterygium with a proper graft fixation technique will improve the outcome with minimal complications.
Incidence and risk factors for retinal detachment following laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis
Authors: Srinivasan Ramyaa , Jain Smriti , Jaisankar Durgasri , Raman Rajiv
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

The aim of this work was to study the incidence and potential risk factors for development of retinal detachment (RD) after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery over a long-term follow-up.

Methods:

This was a retrospective interventional case series. A total of 694 eyes of 352 patients were included who had undergone LASIK surgery at a tertiary eye care institute between January 2005 and September 2015 who had a minimum follow-up of 5 years after the surgery were included. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Cox proportion regression model was used to estimate the potential risk factors and cumulative risk for the development of RD.

Results:

Out of the total patients, 5 eyes developed RD after a mean follow-up of 7 years. The cumulative risk of RD after 1 year was 0.4%, after 2 years was 0.5% and after 7 years was 0.7%. Increased risk of RD was not associated with age at LASIK surgery, gender, laterality, and spherical equivalent (P > 0.05). A significantly increased risk for the development of RD was observed in eyes that were given prior prophylactic laser photocoagulation for peripheral lesions in multivariate cox proportional regression analysis with a hazard ratio (HR) of 9.33 (CI- 1.554-56.094; P = 0.015).

Conclusion:

We emphasize the need for a regular follow-up after the LASIK procedure to ensure timely treatment of any new retinal lesions.
Tribal Odisha Eye Disease Study (TOES) Report # 9. Eye diseases and retinal disorders in an adult and elderly tribal community in Odisha, India - A community hospital-based study
Authors: Padhy Srikanta Kumar , Akkulugari Vidhyadhar , Kandagori Meenaketan , Padhi Tapas Ranjan , Rathi Varsha M , Das Taraprasad
Published: June 2021

Purpose:

To measure the proportion of people with major ophthalmic and retinal disorders in the tribal and non-tribal people presenting to a community eye hospital in an Indian state with a sizeable tribal population.

Methods:

Hospital-based cross-sectional retrospective study of all new adult patients, examined between September 2015 and June 2020. A tribal was defined as per the Indian ethnic classification. Blindness and visual impairment were defined as per the WHO standards. Diabetes and hypertension were defined as per Indian standards. The proportion of common ophthalmic and retinal disorders between the tribal and non-tribal community were compared.

Results:

This cohort consisted of 76,166 people (45.8%; n = 34,869, tribal); 39.4% (n = 29,989; non-tribal 23.6% and tribal 15.8%) people had ophthalmic disorders. In the examined people 2.3% were blind (higher in tribal community 4.7% versus 0.8%; P < 0.001) and 8.4% had moderate-to-severe visual impairment (higher in tribal community 14.4% versus 4.4%; P < 0.001). Refractive error (64.4%; higher in non-tribal community, 77.3% versus 44.6%, P < 0.001) and operable cataract (23.9%; higher in tribal community, 40.9% versus 11.8%, P < 0.001) were the principal ophthalmic disorders. Retinal disorders were higher in non-tribal people (5.9% vs. 2.9%; P < 0.001), but the tribal group had higher proportion of retinitis pigmentosa (20% vs. 6.4%; P < 0.001) and lower proportion of diabetic retinopathy (8% vs. 40.7%; P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The health-seeking behavior of the tribal community in India is low. A tribal person in India apparently visits the hospital when vision is grossly affected. It calls for greater advocacy, increased access to healthcare, and a larger population-based study.
Tumour necrosis factor inhibitor-associated sinusitis
Authors: Yoshihara S. , Kondo K. , Kanaya K. , Suzukawa K. , Baba S. , Toma-Hirano M. , Kikuta S. , Iwasaki Y. , Fujio K. , Yamasoba T.
Published: June 2021

Aim: To describe the features of chronic sinusitis associated with the use of tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. Methodology: A retrospective review of the medical records between 2003 and 2011 revealed that five patients had developed chronic sinusitis after the start of TNF inhibitor administration and required rhinological evaluation and treatment. Results: The incidence of refractory sinusitis associated with TNF inhibitors was approximately 2%. Of the five patients identified, four patients were medicated with etanercept and one with infliximab. The maxillary sinus was most commonly involved and cultures of the sinus discharge revealed Pseudomonas aeruginosa in three cases. Two patients showed improvement of sinusitis with antibiotic medication, despite the continuous use of TNF inhibitor, while in two other patients, sinusitis was resistant to antibiotic medication. Another patient who had developed recurrence of sinusitis after complete remission of previous chronic sinusitis by endoscopic sinus surgery showed remission only after cessation of TNF inhibitor. Conclusion: Chronic sinusitis associated with TNF inhibitors is considered to be a new disease entity, and it will become more common due to the increasing use of TNF inhibitors.
Resonator properties of paranasal sinuses: preliminary results of an anatomical study
Authors: Havel M. , Ertl L. , Bauer D. , Schuster M. , Stelter K. , Sundberg J.
Published: June 2021

Background: The contribution of the nasal and paranasal cavities to vocal tract resonator properties is unclear as are voice effects of sinus surgery. Here we investigate resonance phenomena of paranasal sinuses with and without selective occlusion of the middle meatus and maxillary ostium in a cadaver. Methodology: Nasal and paranasal cavities of a Thiel-embalmed cadaver were excited by sine-tone sweeps from an earphone in the epipharynx. The response was picked up by a microphone at the nostrils. Different conditions with blocked and unblocked middle meatus were tested. Additionally, infundibulotomy was performed allowing direct access to and selective occlusion of the maxillary ostium. Results: Responses showed high reproducibility. Minor effects appeared after removal of meatal occlusion. A marked low frequency dip was detected after removal of occlusion of maxillary ostium following infundibulotomy. Conclusion: Reproducible frequency responses of nasal tract can be derived from cadaver measurements. Marked acoustic effects of the maxillary sinus appeared only after direct exposure of the maxillary ostium following infundibulotomy.
First horizontal and first vertical derivatives from high resolution aeromagnetic data over the Gongola basin upper Benue trough Northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Hayatudeen Musa , Rasaq Bello , Onaolapo Raheem I , Abe Ayoola Olumide
Published: June 2021

High-resolution aeromagnetic data investigation was carried out over the Gongola basin upper Benue trough northeastern Nigeria. Total intensity magnetic map were processed to get the residual map, reduction to equator, polynomial fitting, radially average power spectrum (RAPS) were done, subsequently the first horizontal and first vertical derivatives of the data was carried out in order to identify linear structures (faults and fractures). The outcomes from both the horizontal and vertical derivatives give contact locations that are continuous, thin and show major structures in the NE-SW direction both in the maps and in the rose diagrams. The study focused on delineation of geological structures such as rock contacts; rock boundaries, fractures and faulted zones from the maps, they are principally important in mineral resources studies because many of these resources are located along fracture zones. Linear structures perceived in this kind of studies are also reliable indicators for geologic structures. The result of this work is also significant in identifying areas to be avoided when constructing bridges, dams as well as siting nuclear power plants and delineation of potential risk areas of natural hazard.

Keywords: Aeromagnetic Data, first Horizontal Derivative, first Vertical Derivatives, Gongola Basin, Linear Features.
Analysis of a 4-span continuous plate in one direction using Matlab programming
Authors: Adah E. I. , Ubi S. E , Idagu F. O. , Ubi P. A.
Published: June 2021

The present study presents a computer approach based on polynomial shape functions application for analysis of continuous plate in one direction using Matlab. A 4-span continuous plate in the x-direction comprises of boundary conditions SSSC, SCSC, SCSC and SCSS single panels’ plate was analyzed. It was assumed that, the external edges were simply supported while the internal edges of each panel were clamped. The bending moments of the clamped edges were calculated for each panel using appropriate boundary conditions which formed the fixed end moments (FEMs). Stiffness method was used based on beam analogy to analyze the continuous plate. Matlab codes were applied to develop a computer program for this analysis. To validate the results of this present study, the values of the moments obtained were compared with those of earlier studies using manual method. The percentage difference for fixed end moments were all 0.00% and that of support moments had the maximum value of 0.016%. Thus, it was concluded that the present study program based on Matlab is adequate and a faster approach for a 4-span continuous plate in one direction analysis.

Keywords: Matlab Programming, Continuous Plate, Polynomial Shape Functions, Beam Analogy, Fixed Edge Moment.
Pectinolytic activity of aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus grown on grapefruit (citrus Parasidis) peel in solid state fermentation
Authors: Adedayo M. R. , Mohammed M. T , Ajiboye A. E. , Abdulmumini S. A
Published: June 2021

The present study was aimed at studying pectinolytic activity of resident fungi isolated from decomposing grapefruit (Citrus parasidis) peels in solid state fermentation. Grape fruit peel was subjected to natural fermentation and the fermenting fungi were isolated, characterized and identified using standard microbiological methods. The isolated fungi were in turn used for fermentation to determine their pectinolytic activity through solid state fermentation technique. Culture parameters such as incubation period, temperature, moisture content and addition of salts supplements were optimized during the research for five days. The identified fungi were Aspergillus Niger and Aspergillus flavus. The peak of pectinolytic activity was at day three of fermentation when the highest pectinase activity of 13.32 μmol/mg/min was recorded for A. Niger and 11.32 μmol/mg/min for A. flavus. Optimum temperature and pH for pectinase activity by A. Niger and A. flavus was at 40 0C and pH 7.5 and 7.7 respectively. The use of salt supplemented substrate did not alter enzyme activity. In conclusion, the isolated fungi could be promising organisms for pectinolytic enzyme production on grape peel as substrate.

Keywords: Grapefruit, Pectinolytic Activity, Fungi, Fermentation, Aspergillus
Effet de la fertilisation organique à base de litière foliaire de Jatropha curcas L. et Jatropha gossypifolia L. sur la culture de tomate (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) à Guider (Nord/Cameroun)
Authors: Anguessin Benjamine , Mapongmetsem Pierre Marie , Ibrahima Adamou , Fawa Guidawa
Published: June 2021

La baisse de la fertilité des sols due à la mauvaise gestion des terres et l’utilisation excessive des engrais chimiques a motivé le regain d’intérêt dans la recherche de fertilisants organiques respectant l’environnement pour un développement durable. Pour évaluer l’efficacité agronomique des litières de Jatropha sur la production de la tomate, une étude a été conduite en champs dans des pots de 20 cm de diamètre. Le dispositif expérimental est un bloc de Fischer randomisé avec un total de 64 pots (4 traitements x 4 répétitions x 4 unités expérimentales). Les résultats ont montré que les litières de Jatropha curcas et Jatropha gossypifolia ont amélioré la croissance et le développement (le diamètre et la ramification de la tige, le nombre de feuille et de fruits ainsi que la masse des fruits) de la tomate par rapport au témoin. La litière de Jatropha curcas a induit une large amélioration de la masse des fruits (33,09 g) par rapport aux autres traitements : le témoin (19,99 g), la litière de Jatropha gossypifolia (20,44 g) et l’engrais chimique (24,02 g). Pour une culture dont on aimerait avoir des gros fruits l’utilisation des fertilisants organiques à base des litières de Jatropha curcas pourrait être conseillée.Mots clés : Fertilisant organique, Litière, Jatropha curcas, Jatropha gossypifolia, Nord-Cameroun.

 

English Title: Effect of organic fertilization based on leaf litter of Jatropha curcas L. and Jatropha gossypifolia L. on the tomato crop (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) in Guider (North Cameroon)The decline in soil fertility due to poor land management and excessive use of chemical fertilizers has induced new interest in the quest for environmentally friendly organic fertilizers for sustainable development. To assess the agronomic effectiveness of Jatropha litter on tomato production, a study was conducted in the field in pots of 20 cm in diameter. The experimental set-up is a randomized Fischer block with a total of 64 pots (4 treatments x 4 repetitions x 4 experimental units). The results showed that the litters of Jatropha curcas and Jatropha gossypifolia improved the growth and development (the diameter and branching of the stem, the number of leaves and fruits as well as the mass of the fruits) of the tomato compared to the witness. Jatropha curcas litter induced a large improvement in fruit mass (33.09 g) compared to other treatments: the control (19.99 g), Jatropha gossypifolia litter (20.44 g) and chemical fertilizer (24.02 g). For a crop from which we would like to have larger fruits, the use of organic fertilizers based on Jatropha curcas litter could be recommended.Keywords: Organic fertilizer, Litter, Jatropha curcas, Jatropha gossypifolia, North Cameroon.
Essai de gobetage des mycéliums de Pleurotus cystidiosus à Kinshasa en R.D. Congo
Authors: Kabamba Serge , Nzemoti Gregory , Mbadu Victorine
Published: June 2021

Il a été montré que les fortes pluies et chaleurs réduisaient les rendements du Pleurotus cystidiosus. La présente étude visait à trouver une méthode de culture pouvant limiter les chutes de rendement de Pleurotus cystidiosus en saisons humides et chaudes. Deux techniques à savoir celle de la culture sur étagère et du gobetage ont été utilisées comme traitement appliqué chacun à un échantillon de 30 sachets de substrat ensemencé. Les moyennes des températures étaient de 28,2 °C pour la saison des pluies et de 25,5 °C pour la saison sèche L’analyse de la variance a révélé une différence hautement significative (p≤0,0000) entre le rendement obtenu avec la culture à l’étagère et celui obtenu avec le gobetage. Cette différence n’a été constatée que pendant la période des fortes chaleurs. Les moyennes des rendements sont respectivement de 378,8 ± 39,5 g en saison de pluies et de 474,3g ± 50,1 g en saison sèche pour la culture à l’étagère et 638,7 ± 64,8 g en saison des pluies et 531,3 ± 94,03 g en saison sèche pour le gobetage. Donc, le gobetage peut sauvegarder le rendement de Pleurotus cystidiosus pendant les périodes de fortes pluies et les plus chaudes de l’année.Mots clés : Myciculture, rendement, température, substrat, pleurote.

 

English Title: Casing test of Pleurotus cystidiosus mycelia in Kinshasa in D.R. CongoHeavy rains and heat have been shown to reduce the yields of Pleurotus cystidiosus. The aim of this study was to find an appropriate method to cultivate Pleurotus cystidiosus by preventing its fall in yield during high temperatures season of the year. Two techniques, namely that of the cultivation on the shelf and the casing, were used as treatment each applied to a sample of 30 bags of inoculated substrate. The average temperatures were 28.2 °C for the rainy season and 25.5 °C for the dry season. Analysis of variance revealed a highly significant difference (p≤0.0000) between the yield obtained with the culture on the shelf and that obtained with the casing. This difference was only seen during the hot weather. The average yields were respectively 378.8 ± 39.5 g in the rainy season and 474.3 g ± 50.1 g in the dry season for shelf cultivation and 638.7 ± 64.8 g in the rainy season and 531.3 ± 94.03 g in the dry season for casing. These results suggest that casing can safeguard the yield of Pleurotus cystidiosus during the hottest periods of the year.Keywords: Myciculture, yield, temperature, substrate, pleurotus.
Effect of illicit drug use on human behaviors in west Africa: cases of Grand-Bassam (Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Ouattara Niemtiah , Yao Koffi Mathias , Doubran Prisca Joelle Djoman , Sanogo Ismael Angelo , Tako Neme Antoine
Published: June 2021

The use of illicit drug represents a growing danger to social, physical, emotional and job and institutional related problems affecting the well-being of Ivorian youth today. The purpose of this study was to investigated and evaluated the existing knowledge of illegal types of drug usage among youth groups and its associated behavioral disorders and effects in Grand-Bassam district (Côte d'Ivoire). Urine samples were collected from each participant, amongst targeted youth populations for analysis, participants (n=442), age (≥14 years), both genders were randomly selected. Basic information, economic status, and drug usage history were collected using structured questionnaires. Data were analyzed using Python and GraphPad (Prism 8.4.2). Our results finding show that people age 20-35 years with highest illicit drug consumption (57.7%), tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) was the most consumed illicit product, followed by benzodiazepines (BZO) with 92.09% and 24.05%, respectively. The common effects associated with THC use include hallucination, while use of morphine seems to be on steady increase with aggressiveness disorder observed among its users who come more than one illicit drug  combinations.

Keywords: Behavioral disorders, illegal substances, drug consumption, health risks, mental health, drug-related harms.
Phytochemical analysis and antifungal property of Mallotus oppositifolius (Geiseler) Müll.Arg. (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Ngouana Vincent , Tsouh Fokou Patrick Valere , Zeuko’o Menkem Elisabeth , Donfack Donkeng Valerie Flore , Wabo Fotso Ghislain , Tchaleu Ngadjui Bonaventure , Boyom Fabrice Fekam
Published: June 2021

The emergence of resistant fungi to available drugs highlights the need for new antifungal drugs. The present study aimed to evaluate the antifungal activity of the isolated compounds, fractions and crude extract from the leaf of Mallotus oppositifolius (Geiseler) Müll. Arg. Three pure compounds labelled 1-3 were isolated from the methylene chloride / methanol (1/1) extract of the leaf of this plant using chromatography techniques. These compounds were identified using analytical spectroscopic methods as betulinic acid (1), quercetine (2) and quercitin (3). The crude extract, fractions and compounds were tested against pathogenic yeasts (Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida krusei) and dermatophytes (Trichophyton rubrum, Trichophyton soudanense, Microsporum audouinii, Microsporum langeronii) using agar well diffusion and dilution methods. The safety of the crude extract was studied on Wistar rats according to the WHO guidelines. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 48 to 781 μg/ml against yeasts for crude extract and fractions, and 1.86 to 25000 μg/ml against dermatophytes for pure compounds, fractions and crude extract. The antifungal activity of pure compounds was not determined against yeasts. The crude extract of leaf was found to be safe in rat at up to 12 g/kg. The results achieved supported the traditional use of Mallotus oppositifolius leaf for the treatment of fungal infections.Keywords: Mallotus oppositifolius, antifungal activity, safety, phytochemical screening.
Analysis of a Support Base Stand using Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Muhammad A. , Shanono I.H.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, deformation, Von-Mises stress, and failure analysis were carried out on a base stand using ANSYS workbench. The structural design was carried out using SolidWorks software and then imported into the ANSYS workbench for analysis. The investigation is performed using four different materials, i.e., structural steel, aluminum alloy, carbon fiber, and copper alloy, with an applied loading force of 1000 N at the tip of the structure. This technique highlights a complete reaction of the structure to the loading force, therefore providing room for structural optimization to reduce the risk of unexpected failure and unnecessary material wastage. The results obtained were compared and analyzed to identify the best material capable of withstanding the subjected force. Based on the Von-mises result, Carbon fiber has the highest possible maximum stress value of 4.70e+07 Pa, followed by structural steel, then Copper alloy. At the same time, the aluminium alloy has the least minimum Von-Mises. Structural steel is the very best option based upon the analysis outcomes. Its factor of safety is above unity in all the designs, which indicates that the structure has been over-designed. For that reason, it is suggested that the structure needs to be enhanced.

Keywords: Finite element analysis, base stand, ANSYS, deformation, von mises stress.
Nonintrusive Method for Induction Motor Equivalent Circuit Parameter Estimation using Chicken Swarm Optimization (CSO) Algorithm
Authors: Aminu M. , Abana M. , Pallam S.W. , Ainah P.K.
Published: June 2021

This paper presents a nonintrusive method for estimating the parameters of an Induction Motor (IM) without the need for the conventional no-load and locked rotor tests. The method is based on a relatively new swarm-based algorithm called the Chicken Swarm Optimization (CSO). Two different equivalent circuits implementations have been considered for the parameter estimation scheme (one with parallel and the other with series magnetization circuit). The proposed parameter estimation method was validated experimentally on a standard 7.5 kW induction motor and the results were compared to those obtained using the IEEE Std. 112 reduced voltage impedance test method 3. The proposed CSO optimization method gave accurate estimates of the IM equivalent circuit parameters with maximum absolute errors of 5.4618% and 0.9285% for the parallel and series equivalent circuits representations respectively when compared to the IEEE Std. 112 results. However, standard deviation results in terms of the magnetization branch parameters, suggest that the series equivalent circuit model gives more repeatable results when compared to the parallel equivalent circuit.

Keywords: Induction motor, Chicken Swarm Optimization, parameter estimation, equivalent circuit, objective function
Articulação entre linguagem, discurso e cultura na Pedagogia dos Multiletramentos
Authors: Azevedo Isabel Cristina Michelan
Published: June 2021

Este ensaio parte da proposta do New London Group (NLG) para pensar como os quatro fatores que integram a pedagogia dos multiletramentos podem ser considerados em perspectiva decolonial, por ser assumida a necessidade de “sulear” as pesquisas em Linguística Aplicada. Para tanto, esta breve reflexão foi dividida em duas partes: a primeira recupera os sentidos dos conceitos de “prática situada”, “instrução explícita”, “enquadramento crítico” e “prática transformada” para sugerir como podem ser considerados dentro de uma perspectiva revistada da epistemologia da pluralidade; a segunda destaca critérios que podem orientar o desenvolvimento de experiências didático-pedagógicas que visam a articular linguagem, discurso e cultura por grupos de adolescentes e jovens situados em centros urbanos. Ao final, são acentuadas algumas dificuldades que podem prejudicar os diálogos dentro e fora da escola. Também são marcados alguns encaminhamentos que podem orientar a construção de saberes locais, a fim de promover a inter-relação entre o mundo da escola e o mundo da vida.
(Re)interpretando e implementando criticamente a pedagogia dos multiletramentos
Authors: Tilio Rogério
Published: June 2021

Várias são as contribuições que podemos depreender do manifesto A Pedagogy of Multiliteracies: designing social futures, publicado pelo Grupo de Nova Londres em 1996, dentre as quais se destacam a noção de multiletramentos; a ideia da criação de condições de aprendizagem que levem os aprendizes a terem uma participação social ativa; a necessidade de educar para três esferas da vida: a vida pública, a vida privada, e a vida produtiva; o conceito de projetos de significados (designs); o reconhecimento de elementos de significação que extrapolam significados linguísticos; e a proposta de pedagogia dos multiletramentos. Este ensaio se propõe a discutir uma possível (re)interpretação da pedagogia dos multiletramentos, pensando em sua implementação e possíveis implicações, (re)pensando não apenas sobre sua proposta, mas também refletindo sobre sua implementação na preparação de currículos, materiais didáticos e planos de aula para o ensino de línguas. A discussão aqui conduzida já serviu de embasamento teórico para duas coleções didáticas para o ensino de inglês (TILIO, 2015, 2016), tendo sido a segunda aprovada pelo Programa Nacional do Livro Didático (PNLD) de 2018.
Situando a realidade aumentada no Manifesto de 1996
Authors: Sorte Paulo Boa
Published: June 2021

O objetivo deste ensaio é situar a realidade aumentada no âmbito do Manifesto de 1996, especialmente no que se refere à pedagogia dos multiletramentos. Inserida no conceito de Internet das Coisas, a realidade aumentada tem se mostrado forte componente da interação humano-computador. Nessa discussão, abordo as possibilidades de práticas multiletradas para dar conta da multiplicidade de comunicações, canais e mídias sem abrir mão do engajamento crítico. Discuto, ainda, os papéis a serem desempenhados por professores e alunos como designers ativos de futuros sociais. Em aulas de línguas adicionais, a ideia de realizar visitas virtuais a atrações culturais, em outros países, pode favorecer o exercício de práticas sociais de linguagem ao mesmo tempo em que provoca reflexões e conhecimento, dentre tantos aspectos, do acesso aos bens culturais da humanidade e da ocupação de todos os espaços na sociedade. Nesse sentido, o movimento de ida a (não tão) novos mundos – como a tecnologia imersiva da realidade aumentada – pode nos ajudar a redesenhar as práticas cotidianas de trabalho, comunicação, compras, relacionamentos, saúde, dentre outros, que irão convergir no campo educacional.