bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of the real-time polymerase chain reaction and xpert Mycobacterium tuberculosis/rifampicin assay for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Abd-Elaziz Nada F , Salem Heba A , Nagy Hala M , Farhat Amgad A
Published: April 2024

Background

A serious issue with world health is tuberculosis (TB). Annual estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) put the number of incident cases at 9.6 million. The aim of this work was to compare between real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and GeneXpert in recognition of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) with special reference to quantification of MTB and to speed of detection of the organism.

Materials and Methods

Thirty individuals participated in this prospective clinical quasi-interventional trial with clinical data and chest radiography suggestive of pulmonary tuberculosis. Participants were split into three groups equally: group I (control group) was zielneilsen stain (ZN) stain positive and culture positive, group II were ZN stain negative and culture positive and group III were ZN stain negative and culture negative. Each participant was exposed to a plain chest radiography and a complete blood picture.

Results

Real-time PCR result was significantly correlated with loss of appetite and weight in group III. There were negative correlations between PCR and mediastinal lymphadenopathy in group I. In group I GeneXpert was significantly correlated with night sweat and fever, breathlessness and cavitary lesion. In group III GeneXpert was significant correlated with site of lesion and night sweat and fever.

Conclusions

For TB patients, the PCR test is crucial in order to provide prompt diagnosis and therapy. When comparing AdvanSure tuberculous /non tuberculous mycobacterium (TB/NTM) real-time PCR with Xpert MTB/rifampicin (RIF) assay, the latter is more advantageous due to its test-method simplicity and quicker than real-time PCR ability to simultaneously identify rifampin resistance. However, its sensitivity for specimens with an acid-fast bacilli (AFB) smear negative but a positive culture is less than AdvanSure TB/NTM real-time PCR. With special reference to the quantification of MTB, TB/NTM real-time PCR is a quantitative test but Xpert MTB/RIF is semiquanitative.
Comprehensive evaluations of coronavirus disease 2019 survivors regarding immunity, laboratory and computed tomography change
Authors: Bahgat Shereen , Abdelhamid Aya M , Gaber Osama A , Abdelsalam Noha M , Eldin Rasha M B
Published: April 2024

Background

Long coronavirus disease is an incapacitating disease that occurs in at least 10% of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections. At least 65 million persons global are estimated to have long COVID, with situations increasing daily.

Patients and methods

This is a prospective cohort study done on COVID-19 survivors’ proved by computed tomography (CT) or RCR testing who registered for follow-up at post-COVID Clinic at Family Medicine Department in Zagazig University Hospital through systematic random sampling technique. Survivors followed-up for 6 months by three visits.

Results

Total 137 adult patients with COVID-19 were included in this study. Mean age of the studied group 42.01 ± 8.28 years where most of them were females (78.1%). As regards inflammatory marker C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and D-dimer were slightly elevated and improving in the subsequent visits but complete blood picture, liver functions, kidney function, cardiac enzymes result through follow-up visits were in normal range. As regards CT change (72.3%) demonstrated abnormal CT in first visit and became (20.5%) at follow-up visit. As regards serology results, 100% demonstrated positive serology in first measurement and 12.5% turned negative in follow-up measurement after 3 months.

Conclusion

Small percent of COVID-19 patients present with some abnormalities, but after follow-up period we observed overall improvement in all parameters.
Thoracic surgery for posttubercular hydropneumothorax in patient with cerebral palsy: a case report
Authors: Maheshwari Ankit , Pawar Ranjit , Dolas Ashish , Garg Anurag
Published: April 2024

Cerebral palsy, a disorder presenting with various neurological and muscular manifestations depending on severity of cerebral involvement causes variable functional limitation. This presents as a challenge when major surgeries are planned. Thoracic surgeries need detailed evaluation and optimization due to functional limitations to attain optimal outcome. We report a case of cerebral palsy who underwent thoracic surgery for posttubercular hydropneumothorax.
Broad spectrum antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and peripheral analgesic activities of heteroaryl nitazoxanide analogs
Authors: Abdur Rahman S. M. , Ahmed Tasmia , Asaduzzaman Muhammad , Rahman Fahad Imtiaz , Chowdhury A. K. Azad
Published: April 2024

Background

The antiparasitic drug nitazoxanide possesses diverse biological activity. However, very few investigation was accomplished with nitazoxanide analogs. Therefore, herein we focused on the screening of bioactivities using some nitazoxanide-like synthesized molecules.

Objectives

Four heteroaryl nitazoxanide analogs synthesized in our laboratory were investigated for antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic activity.

Materials and methods

Disc diffusion method was used for assessing antimicrobial potency against several Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, and fungi. Carrageenan-induced rat paw edema model was performed to evaluate anti-inflammatory activity. The analgesic property was evaluated using the acetic acid-induced writing inhibition method in the mice model. Molecular docking simulations against cyclooxygenase-1, cyclooxygenase-2, phospholipase A2, NF-κB inducing kinase, and interleukin-1 receptor-associated kinase 4 were also performed.

Results and conclusion

All the synthesized compounds exhibited broad spectrum antimicrobial property against a number of Gram-positive, Gram-negative species and unicellular fungi. Compound 4 or N-(5-nitrothiazol-2-yl)-furan-3-carboxamide emerged as the most prominent antimicrobial agent exhibiting zone of inhibition ranging in 14–22 mm. These zone diameters are sometimes greater than that displayed by nitazoxanide. Compounds 2 and 3 also showed remarkable broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity with a zone of inhibition 10–20 mm and 12–20 mm, respectively. Compound 4 also displayed potential anti-inflammatory activity which is comparable to standard aceclofenac. Compound 4 also showed mild analgesic effects. The compounds also exhibited moderate binding affinities against the selected target receptors and enzymes during in silico molecular docking. Heteroaryl nitazoxanide analogs showed prominent broad-spectrum antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and mild analgesic properties. This study indicates that heteroaryl nitazoxanide analogs might be interesting candidates for new drug discovery.
Morphological, molecular biology and pathological characterization of fungi causes root rot on grapevine
Authors: Hemida Khames A. , Ziedan El- Sayed H. , El-Samman Magdy G. , Khattab Abd El-Nasser A. , Mohamed Maha H.
Published: April 2024

Background

Grapevine is subjected to attack by several of soilborne fungi causing root-rot diseases that lead to limit the production of grapevine.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the morphological, molecular identification, and pathogenic potential of fungi that causes root-rot disease of grapevine in Egypt.

Materials and methods

Isolation of fungi causing root rot of grapevine plants from the samples of diseased roots of different cultivars, i.e., crimson, superior, and flame seedless. Identification according to characterizations of morphological, cultural, and molecular biology based on internal-transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1). Pathogenicity tests of fungal isolates on grapevine plants under greenhouse conditions. Root-rot incidence, disease severity, and plant growth characteristics were determined.

Results and conclusion

Isolation traits from affected grapevine trees with different grape varieties in Egypt’s El-Nobaria Province, El-Behira Governorate, yielded eighteen isolates of four fungal genera. Fusarium spp. was the most fungal genus highly frequent on all cultivars tested and colonization (100%) on root-rot tissue of superior and flame-seedless cultivars, then (75%) on Crimson cultivar. While Lasiodiplodia spp. was recorded with moderate frequency and high colonization (100%) on rotten tissue of Crimson cultivar followed by (75%) in both flame-seedless and superior cultivars. As opposed to that, fungi of Macrophomina phaseolina followed by Rhizoctonia solani had the least frequency and colonization percentage. Isolates of fungi were identified according to morphological characteristics, cultural, and molecular biology based on internal-transcribed spacer-1 (ITS1) sequencing and conserved in GenBank with accession numbers from (ON037457.1 to ON037474.1). Fungal isolates were varied for causes of root rot on grapevine plants and their reduction effect on the characteristics of growth of flame-seedless cultivar. Fusarium solani isolate (ON037462.1) was the most pathogenic isolate that caused (100%) of root rot, high disease severity, and highly significant reduced grapevine plant growth characteristics followed by isolates of Lasiodiplodia
theobromae (ON037474.1). In this respect, a new isolate of fungal species was hosting grapevine plants, i.e., two isolates each of F. chlamydosporum, F. brachygibbosum, one isolate of F. ipomoeae, and one isolate of L.
exigua are the new causal pathogens of root-rot disease on grapevine as the first report in Egypt.
Apoptosis as a therapeutic strategy for breast cancer: the role of Thymax, a gross thymic extract, in modulating cell death pathways
Authors: Elwakkad Amany , Gamal El Din Amina A. , Hebishy Mohamed A. , Abou-Seif Howida S.
Published: April 2024

Background

Breast cancer is a prevalent disease in women and a leading cause of cancer-related health issues. Thymax, a thymic extract, has shown potential for inducing breast cancer cell apoptosis in vitro.

Objective

This study aims to investigate how Thymax induces apoptosis and inhibits breast cancer growth and metastasis in vivo.

Materials and methods

Thymax treatment was divided into five groups: the first group (negative control) − normal rats without tumors. In the second group (positive control), rats were injected subcutaneously in the mammary gland with a single dose of 50 mg/kg b.w. of 7,12-Dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (in 2 ml of corn oil) and allowed to develop tumors for 120 days. Group 3: Thymax was orally administered 6 days a week to tumor-bearing rats (0.4 mg/rat) and continued for 5 weeks. Tumor-bearing rats in group 4 (Thymax injection) received 0.1 ml of Thymax solution through intraperitoneal injection twice weekly for 5 weeks. The last group was Thymax mix (oral and injection); tumor-bearing rats received Thymax solution by dual routes: orally with 0.4 ml six times per week and intraperitoneally with 0.1 ml twice weekly for 5 weeks. Thymax treatment, beginning after 120 days of tumor induction, continued for 5 weeks.

Results and conclusion

Thymax- induced apoptosis in breast cancer cells by increasing cytochrome c, tumor necrosis factor receptor type 1-associated death domain protein (TRADD), and Fas associated death domain (FADD) levels. It also activated the mitochondrial-dependent pathway with up-regulation of tumor protein gene (P53) expression and cysteine-dependent, aspartate-specific peptidase (caspase-8) activation. Thymax restored normal renal and hepatic cell function and enhanced the immune system by improving total antioxidant levels and inhibiting malondialdehyde levels in treated animals. Histopathological results showed a significant apoptotic effect in the group receiving Thymax injections, demonstrating its capability to induce apoptosis without tumors or atypia in mammary glands.

Our findings indicate that Thymax has a significant effect on enhancing tumor cell death and inducing apoptosis in vivo. Thymax may also modulate proapoptotic and antiapoptotic protein expression and activity, regulate the penetrability of the mitochondrial membrane, and release cytochrome c. Furthermore, our findings show that the injection route of Thymax is the fastest and most efficient method to deliver the extract to the tumor site and exert its antitumor effects. These results suggest that Thymax has the potential to be a novel adjuvant in the treatment of breast cancer, as it can enhance the efficacy of conventional therapies and reduce the risk of recurrence and metastasis.
From Rupees to Rights: India’s Struggle and Progress toward Gender Pay Parity
Authors: Kulkarni Namratha , Havaldar Pavan P.
Published: April 2024

The gender pay gap, a global issue, reflects the persistent inequality between men and women in the workforce. India, despite progress in various aspects, still grapples with significant disparities in earnings between genders. This article explores the multifaceted nature of the gender pay gap in India, examining its causes and potential solutions. It also highlights India’s achievements in narrowing the gap in fields such as health care, education, and creative industries. Government initiatives and policies, like the Gender Budget, play a crucial role in addressing this issue, but challenges like unconscious biases and occupational segregation remain. While India has taken the first few steps toward gender pay parity, there is much work to be done to ensure equal opportunities and compensation for all.
Vocal fold cyst: A narrative review
Authors: Swain Santosh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Vocal fold cysts are benign lesions of the larynx and affect both children and adults. The vocal fold cysts can be classified into two types such as mucous retention cysts and epidermoid cysts. Vocal overuse is often associated with the formation of the cyst on the vocal fold. The aetiological factor behind this lesion may be due to occupation. It frequently affects the people who use their voices professionally. The most common symptom of the vocal fold cyst is dysphonia or hoarseness of the voice, increased vocal effort, fatigue, strain and if the lesions are large enough, feeling of dyspnoea with phonation. If the size of the vocal cyst is very large, it may manifest life-threatening stridor. This lesion can create mental and emotional tension in daily life and affect the daily life of the patient. The vocal fold cyst is easily recognised and managed. Videostroboscopy is one of the most important techniques for the diagnosis of the vocal fold cyst. The vocal fold cyst rarely resolves entirely. The treatment options include speech therapy and transoral microlaryngeal surgery. Early diagnosis of the vocal fold cyst can lead to effective treatment and good vocal recovery. This article discusses the epidemiology, aetiopathogenesis, clinical features, diagnosis and present the treatment of vocal fold cysts.
Initial experience of robotic-assisted cholecystectomy in a tertiary care teaching hospital
Authors: Ganesh Bodapudi , Raju Boyidi Venkat , Teja Chandu , Yadlapati Sai Sumanth , Supriya Dasari , Sundara Rao Tella Syama , Reddy Gelli Srinivasa , Nayak Samir Ranjan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Robotic surgery was designed to overcome some of the major limitations of laparoscopy in terms of visibility, dexterity and precision. However, its potential limitations include high costs and low tactile feedback. at a tertiary care teaching hospital.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, we assessed the safety and feasibility of robotic-assisted cholecystectomy using the Versius Surgical Robot System® at our tertiary care teaching hospital between 2 September 2021 and 22 August 2022.

Results:

Of the 30 patients studied, 11 were males. The mean body mass index of the patients was 25.7. Intraoperative complications were noted in one case (haemorrhage from the liver bed) and conversion to laparoscopic surgery was noted in the same case. The median docking time was 16 min and the median console time was 72 min. No post-operative complications were noted. Both docking time and console time significantly decreased throughout this study.

Conclusions:

This study shows that the robotic-assisted cholecystectomy is a promising, safe and feasible alternative to traditional laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio as marker of organ dysfunction severity in patients with sepsis in the intensive care unit: An observational study
Authors: Pathania Ridham , Gupta Monica , Jesrani Gautam , Gupta Samiksha , Palta Anshu
Published: April 2024

Background:

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) is an easily computable parameter and is believed to accurately determine the disease-related organ dysfunction severity and prognosis in sepsis.

Methods:

This study aimed at identifying the role of NLR in predicting organ dysfunction severity and prognosis in patients with sepsis requiring admission to an intensive care unit (ICU). In this observational study, NLR and Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores were calculated at the time of admission in patients with sepsis. Patients were followed until discharge or death.

Results:

Fifty five ICU patients with sepsis were enrolled. The mean NLR and SOFA scores for the total study cohort were 7.91 ± 3.01 and 8.76 ± 3.16, respectively. The corresponding values for those in septic shock were 8.96 ± 2.80 and 9.94 ± 3.78. A positive correlation was observed between SOFA score and NLR in all patients (r = 0.5584, P < 0.001); patients with sepsis only (r = 0.4821, P = 0.002); and patients with sepsis and shock (r = 0.6321, P = 0.004). In the total population, mean NLR was significantly higher among non-survivors, compared to survivors (9.17±3.1 vs. 7.09±2.7 ; P = 0.0054).

Conclusions:

NLR at admission shows a good correlation with the organ dysfunction severity in sepsis and may be used as a prognostic marker, thereby guiding the intensification of management.
Perception and practice of medical research amongst future doctors in a Medical College of Kolkata: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Das Sukesh , Bandyopadhyay Kajari , Das Avijit , Chatterjee Supantha , Sarkar Tarun Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Medical research is important for medical students, but the scope and practice in India are poor compared to Western countries. Sparse published data are available from India on the perceptions and practice of medical research among the future doctors of a Medical College.

Methods:

It was an observational, descriptive type of study with cross-sectional design conducted amongst future doctors (3rd Professional Part II students and Interns) of a Government Medical College in Kolkata. A pre-designed, structured questionnaire (as Google Forms) was shared amongst the participants through WhatsApp.

Results:

Majority of the participants (85.1%) opined that research is essential for updating knowledge in the Medical Field, while about 2/5th of them regarded teaching on research in the UG curriculum as unsatisfactory. Perceived barriers cited by the participants were lack of funding support (88.3%), lack of facilities (69.5%), lack of proper guidance (83.8%), demanding curriculum (74.7%), existing stress (58.1%) and lack of time (77.9%). Motivating factors for research as considered by the participants were inspiration from teachers (85.1%), inspiration from peers, relatives or family members (49.3%), financial gains (51.9%) and career prospects (59.1%). Only 13.0% of the participants conducted any research, and only 4.5% have published their study.

Conclusions:

Several perceived barriers as well as motivating factors for research cited by the future doctors. Practice on research amongst them is far from being satisfactory.
Accuracy of Narrow-Band Imaging-Guided Histopathology and Ki-67 Index in Head and Neck Carcinoma
Authors: Debnath Asim , Choudhury Mrinmoy M. , Sarma Mridul K. , Sharma Moitrayee , Missong Ajit K. , Deka Muktanjalee
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

As per Globocan 2012, every year the incidence of head and neck cancer is 683235/1000000 with a mortality of around 375665/1000000 thus being the sixth cause of cancer death throughout the world. Head and neck cancer includes cancer of the nasopharynx, oropharynx, hypopharynx, larynx, and oral cavity. Early diagnosis of head and neck cancer is very challenging, hence detecting mucosal lesions at an early stage decreases mortality thereby improving overall survival, disease-free survival, and quality of life. Out of different diagnostic modalities, narrow-band imaging (NBI) combined with endoscopic techniques can provide a promising diagnostic tool in detecting early lesions of head and neck cancer. Numerous studies have shown that Ki-67 is a good prognostic marker in oral cancers. Our study aims to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of NBI and combine the Ki-67 index to diagnose head and neck cancer.

Materials and Methods:

All patients were first examined under white light and then under NBI endoscopy, and a biopsy was obtained from suspected lesions and sent for histopathological examination (HPE) and Ki-67 index.

Results:

Eighty patients were examined out of which, 68 patients having lesions in the oral cavity, oropharynx, larynx, and hypopharynx were examined. The rate of detecting cancerous lesion by white light and NBI were respectively 92% and 100% for oral cavity lesions, 69% and 100% for oropharyngeal lesions, 38% and 100% for hypopharyngeal lesions, and 37% and 100% for laryngeal carcinoma. However, we have found no significant difference in detecting T2-T4 tumors. Hence, we concluded that NBI mode can be a significantly better diagnostic tool than white light mode in detecting early mucosal cancer in head and neck cancer.

Conclusion:

We have concluded that NBI combined with Ki-67 estimation is a very promising tool that helps in the early diagnosis of mucosal lesions in head and and neck cancer.
Evaluation of the Role of Oral Microbes in Pathogenesis of Oral Lichen Planus
Authors: Mehta Tarang , Ashem Albert , Giri Debanti , Jethlia Ankur , Gupta Bharti , Lunkad Honey , Makkad Ramanpal Singh
Published: April 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

The pathophysiology and etiology of oral lichen planus (OLP) are still unknown, despite the fact that the condition’s progression has been connected to a T-cell-based immune response. Research has focused on variables, such as oral bacteria, that may cause an autoimmune reaction with conflicting results.

Aim:

This study was conducted to evaluate the role of oral microorganisms in the pathogenesis of OLP.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, 82 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded specimens of histopathologically confirmed cases of OLP and 20 such specimens of normal healthy subjects were obtained. Immunohistochemistry was carried out for the identification of microorganisms.

Results:

Candida albicans was observed in 47.12% of OLP cases and 9.43% of healthy controls. Helicobacter pylori was discovered in 45.21% of OLP cases and 13.46% of healthy controls. Periodontopathogenic bacteria was found in 33.14% of OLP cases and 13.45% of healthy controls. Human papillomavirus (HPV)-16 was noticed in 38.12% of OLP cases and 11.24% in the control group. HPV-18 was found in 32.43% of OLP patients and 11.43% in the control group. Mycoplasma salivarium was found in 46.47% of OLP patients and 6.45% in control.

Conclusion:

It was observed that several microorganisms like H. pylori, C. albicans, M. salivarium, periodontopathogenic bacteria, HPV-16, and HPV-18 were found to be related to OLP.
A Study on Clinico Radiological Profile and Treatment Pattern of Patients Admitted with Mucormycosis in a Teaching Institution
Authors: Vinayakumar Vishnu , Faizal C. K. Mohammed , Wilfred Manu
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

(1) Primary objective: To study the selected risk factors and clinical and radiological profiles of patients admitted with mucormycosis. (2) Secondary objective: To study the treatment pattern of patients admitted with mucormycosis.

Materials and Methods:

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted, which included the data of all patients admitted with the histopathological diagnosis of mucormycosis after undergoing surgery in the Otorhinolaryngology Department, Government Medical College, Thrissur, from January 2020 to September 2021. The risk factors, clinical and radiological profiles along with the treatment pattern of patients admitted with mucormycosis were analyzed.

Results:

Most of the cases belonged to the 40–50 age group, although the mean age was 52.24 with patients ranging from the age of 32–76. The male: female ratio was 2:1. All patients had diabetes mellitus. 89.7% had hypertension, and 76.9% had chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion:

Diabetes mellitus and COVID-19 cause a predilection for mucor to invade the paranasal sinuses and beyond. Aggressive treatment with amphotericin B along with surgical clearance aided by radiological investigation will help in decreasing the morbidity of the disease.
An Epidemiological Study to Assess Essential Life Skills and its Predictors Among Adolescents in an Urban Slum Area
Authors: Bose Kritanjali Sahu , Lavangare Sujata , Bose Aritra Kumar
Published: April 2024

Background:

Essential life skills are a vast range of psychological and interpersonal abilities that can help people lead healthy and productive lives, make informed decisions, communicate effectively, and build coping and self-management skills. Adolescence is the building block for these skills, and the current study was planned to estimate these life skills among school-going children in a slum area.

Methodology:

The study was conducted in a slum area of Mumbai, where 158 adolescents (10–19 years) were selected by systematic random sampling. The assessment of sociodemographic profile and life skills based on five domains: time management, communication, leadership, goal setting, and coping skills, was done for 1.5 years.

Results:

The study involved participants with a mean age of 15 ± 2.3 years, primarily in early (40.5%) and mid (39.2%) adolescence. Females constituted 51.3%, with 57.6% from UP and 18.4% from Bihar. Most families had male heads, mostly educated till middle school or illiterate. Mothers were often illiterate or had a primary school certificate. Participants typically had 3–5 siblings and stayed with their parents. The mean global life skills score was 212.9.

Conclusions:

The study will act as a road map for curriculum planning and designing of extracurricular activities for adolescents so that their life skill scores increase and they grow up as better human beings.
Global Health Inequity and Disparity: Beyond Talk, Toward Action
Authors: Kumar Pratyush
Published: April 2024

Global health inequity remains a major challenge despite ambitious goals. Disparities exist between rural and urban areas, high-income countries, and low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), and in representation at conferences and leadership positions. These gaps lead to delayed diagnoses, untreated illnesses, and preventable deaths in LMICs and rural communities. Addressing this issue requires financial inclusivity, deconstructing power imbalances, investing in rural health care, strengthening LMIC health systems, and promoting global health equity. Only through concrete actions can we bridge the gap and ensure health care for all.
Choithram’s Modified Hanging Limb Preparation for Limb Surgeries
Authors: Singh Rajpal , Chamania Shobha , Jaswanth Appikonda Naga , Singh Saumya
Published: April 2024

In an extensive lower limb burn surgery, where we need to operate circumferentially, we need to have a hanging limb preparation to have exposure to all sides of the leg. Here, we describe a modified method of limb holding described by authors from a paper published by Farroha et al. in EJPS, 2013. In our setup, we hang the lower limb using sharp towel clips, fixed to the patient’s great toe at distal phalanx (DP). These towel clips are elevated by a sterile bandage to the hook of intravenous stand, which is stabilized using weights on the other end. We are using this method for lower limb burn surgery to perform tangential excision or debridement and skin graft application/harvesting. There is no potential or residual damage to the great toe, nail, or bone of the DP. This method is very convenient, easy 360° access to operate, most impressive, needs lesser assistance and workforce and decreases chances of contamination.
Об абсолютной непрерывности меры Эрдeша для золотого сечения, числа трибоначчи и марковских цепей второго порядка
Authors: Kulikov Vladimir Leonidovich , Olekhova Elena Fedorovna , Oseledets Valery Iustinovich
Published: April 2024

Рассматривается степенной ряд в фиксированной точке $\rho \in (0.5,1)$, где случайные коэффициенты принимают значения $0$, $1$ и образуют стационарный, эргодический и апериодический процесс. Мера Эрдeша - это закон распределения такого ряда. Задача об абсолютной непрерывности меры Эрдeша сводится к вопросу, когда соответствующая скрытая марковская цепь является марковской цепью Перри. Для золотого сечения и 1-марковских цепей мы получаем необходимые и достаточные условия абсолютной непрерывности меры Эрдeша и, используя марковские цепи Блекуэлла, даем новое доказательство того, что необходимые условия, найденные ранее (Теория вероятн. и ее примен., 51:1 (2006), 5-21), являются достаточными. Для числа трибоначчи и 1-марковских цепей получено новое доказательство теоремы о сингулярности меры Эрдeша. Для числа трибоначчи и 2-марковских цепей найдено только два случая абсолютной непрерывности.
Charge Transport Enhancement in Some Acene-Based Molecular Junctions
Authors: Ibrahim Kassim L. , Babaji G. , Galadanchi G.S.M.
Published: April 2024

The field of single molecule electronics research has been spurred by the need to add functionality to next-generation electronic circuits  and the desire to miniaturize devices. We focused on some acenebased molecular junctions, in which molecules are connected to Au  electrodes via anchor groups. The frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) and charge transport nature of the junction were examined by employing the density functional theory (DFT) in conjunction with the non-equilibrium Green's functional (NEGF) formalism. Particular  attention was paid to the anchoring groups (NH2, S, CN, and SH), chemical impurity doping (B, N, and NB), and side groups (-CH3, -NH2,  and –NO2). The findings demonstrate that the FMOs can change depending on the dopants or substituents employed. Additionally, it is  noted that depending on the materials employed, charge transfer may be p-type or ntype. It is discovered that the molecular junctions  have the highest conductivity when cyanides are used as anchor groups. It is therefore the ideal anchor material to utilize with tetracene  and pentacene molecules. Understanding and creating n-type or p-typed high conductivity single molecule electronic components can be  greatly aided by these discoveries.
Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Ethanolic Leaves Extract of Sansevieria trifasciata and Sansevieria liberica in Swiss Mice, (Mus musculus)
Authors: Oboho Diligent , Asuquo Essien , Edeke Affiong , Nelson Akwaowo , Aina Sulaimon , Ogbuke Ebere , Udoukpo Finnian
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study was to examine the anti-inflammatory properties of Sansevieria trifasciata, also known as mother-in-law tongue,  and Sansevieria liberica ethanolic leaf extract on mice, (Mus musculus). In a scientific setting, plant powder was extracted using 70%  ethanol over a 72-hour period. Using the test animals, the extracts’ median lethal dose (LD50) was established. The soluble portion of the  extracts was given at working doses of 10, 20, and 30% of the LD50 to the corresponding experimental animal groups (i.e low, middle,  and high dosages accordingly). Findings from Sansevieria trifasciata and S. liberica’s phytochemical screening indicated the existence of  secondary metabolites like terpenes, alkaloids, cardiac glycosides, and tannins. When given intraperitoneally, the LD50 of S. trifasciata  and S. liberica were 387.30 and 353.55 mg/kg, respectively. The plant extracts’ soluble fraction was given intraperitoneally (i.p.) by injection as well as orally. The phlogistic egg-albumin-induced inflammation significantly decreased (p<0.05) according to the results.  However, the development of a strong anti-inflammatory drug with low toxicity and an improved therapeutic index may come from the  isolation of these bioactive components.
Physico-Chemical Properties of Locally Processed Shea Butter (Vitellaria paradoxa) from Parts of Niger State, Nigeria
Authors: Abdulmumeen Abubakar , Oladunni Hafsat Muhammad , Muhammed Habiba Maikudi , Dadi-Mamud Naomi John
Published: April 2024

The suitability of shea butter as a dietary fat is greatly influenced by its physicochemical parameters as well as fatty acid composition.  Thus, the present study was conducted to assess the physicochemical and fatty acid composition of shea butter sampled from three  vegetational zones; Zone A (Agaie and Lapai Local Government Areas Coordinates) Zone B (Suleja and Gurara Local Government Areas) Zone C (Kontagora and Magama Local Government Areas in Niger State. The physicochemical parameters which include; colour,  moisture, pH, oil yield, acid value, peroxide and saponification were analyzed according to standard methods. Results obtained showed  that the colour of the shea butter from the 3 zones were orange/yellow. Moisture content ranged between 2.07±0.21 and 2.40±0.21; pH  values ranged between 5.27±0.14 and 5.34±0.14; Oil yield ranged from 52.76±4.27 and 56.12±4.27; Acid values ranged from 2.47±2.61 to  3.77±2.61. Saponification ranged between 183.51±0.09 and 193.57±0.09; Peroxide values ranged between 0.54±0.38 and 1.04±0.38  respectively. There were significant and non-significant differences in the values of all the physicochemical parameters sampled from the  3 zones (p<0.05). Fatty acid composition revealed that the values of Oleic, linoleic, palmitic and arachidic ranged between 48.65±1.23 and  52.78±0.74; 7.24±1.21 and 8.30±1.30; 6.43±0.24 and 7.35±1.26; 0.63±0.11 and 0.84±0.08 respectively. The parameters assessed compared  favourably with the reports from previous studies, indicating that the shea butter could serve as a source of food to the rural dwellers.
Concern over Orthodox and First Aids Treatments of Snakebite Victims in Kaltungo L.G.A, Gombe State, Nigeria
Authors: Tokdung M. , Sagir A. , Mohammed N.
Published: April 2024

Snakebite by venomous snake causes multi-dimensional fast adverse clinical and non-clinical effects; including mortality and morbidity.  Hence, the need for urgent first aid and treatments always in such conditions. Unfortunately, most of the bites occur in very remote rural  areas with no health facilities at all or poor health facilities where available for proper treatment. So, the alternative as a matter of necessity is self-help by means of traditional methods of “first aid or treatment”. Unfortunately, the disadvantage of such methods far  out-weigh the advantages in many ways for many reasons such as toxicity, none efficacy, lack of hygiene, unknown dosage and delay in  going for proper health care early, due to hopeful confidence. The Tropical and Sub-Saharan regions of the globe are more affected;  Nigeria is inclusive with the high burden in 12 States. This study was aimed at evaluating the level of dependence on some of these  traditional methods of first and treatment of snakebite victims in Kaltungo, Gombe State. After getting ethical clearance from the State  Ministry of Health and consent of the victims; a simple questionnaire was used to collect relevant information regarding first aids and treatments from 200 snakebite victims. The study showed that 167 (83.5%) of the victims took at least one form of first aid and/or  treatment or the other before visiting the health centre for proper care. The first aids/treatments methods include at least one traditional  methods – 27 (13.5%), orthodox only – 4 victims (2%), spiritual method only – 3 (1.5%), tourniquet method only – 7 (3.5%)  combinations of two or more methods – 126 (63.0%), while 33 (16.5%) only did not take any first aid/treatment at all before getting to the  treatment centre.
Urinary Schistosomiasis Amongst Children in Some Selected Primary Schools in Bagwai Local Government Area of Kano State – Nigeria
Authors: Sule H. , Muhammad A.B. , Ali A.B.
Published: April 2024

Urinary schistosomiasis is one of the neglected tropical diseases that mostly affect children of the poor in resource limited settings of  developing countries especially in Africa. It evolves when children come in contact with stagnant water and those of school age are  among the most vulnerable. The research aimed to assess the burden of schistosomiasis among school children in the study area.  Samples were collected in universal bottles and analysed by microscopy. From the research, overall prevalence of 25.3% was recorded.  The result indicated variable disease prevalence amongst the selected villages, which revealed 45(47.3%) for Daddauda, 31(13.1%) for  Kiyawa, 29(2.63%) for Jarumawa, 22(13.1%) from Sare-Sare and Kauyen Adam with 23(23.6%). Daddauda recorded the highest prevalence  (47.3%) followed by Kauyen Adam (23.6%), Kiyawa and Sare-Sare with 13.1% respectively and the least was Jarumawa with 2.63%. There is  statistically significant difference in infection among the different villages from which the children came from (P-value = 0.0001. According  to the results, males had higher prevalence 71.0% compared to their females counterpart, 28.9%. Based on age group, the age bracket with the highest prevalence was 15-18 years of age 68.4% while the least infection rate was recorded in 5-7 years age group with  10.5%.
Kinetics of antibacterial activities of cellulose nanocrystals and their silver-zinc oxide nanocomposites: Application as potential disinfectants
Authors: Agunbiade F.O. , Allen E.E. , Oyetibo G.O.
Published: April 2024

Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) were produced from corncob and used as reducing agent in the formation of ZnO/CNCs, Ag/CNCs, and  ZnO-Ag/CNCs composites and applied as antibacterial agents for both grampositive and gram-negative bacteria and the kinetics of  microbial growth inhibition studied. The CNCs and composites were characterized by UV-visible and Fourier transform-infrared (FTIR)  spectroscopy. The characterization results revealed that the functional groups of CNCs were affected by their interactions with Ag+  and Zn2+ ions. The composites at 100 mg/mL displayed activities against Gram-positive bacteria - Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus,  Staphylococcus epidermis, Bacillus coagulans and Enterococcus faecalis and Gram-negative bacteria - Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia,  Salmonella typhimurium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecium and Acinetobacter baumanii) bacteria with inhibitory zones ranged  between 9-46 mm. The kinetics of inhibition showed that the composites treated water had 4 to 28 times lower rate constants compared  to the untreated water. This implied that the composites inhibit growth rates and have the potential of disinfecting for between 4 to 28 h  depending on the bacteria. The materials showed better growth inhibition rate on gram-positive bacteria than on gram-negative. These  composites may have potential applications as disinfectants in personal care products and serve as more eco-friendly alternative  disinfectants to chlorophenols.
Physical quality and antibiotic susceptibility profile of Escherichia coli isolates from roof-harvested rainwater: A microcosm study
Authors: Titilawo M.A. , Josiah C.G. , Simeon O.N. , Ali C.M. , Ugwuocha C.S. , Ojediran G.O. , Titilawo O.Y. , Olaitan J.O.
Published: April 2024

Owing to the inadequate supply of potable water in rural settlements in developing countries, roof-harvested rainwater (RHRW) has been  favoured as an alternative source of water supply. The present study investigated the physical characteristics and microbial quality  of 10 RHRW samples collected from storage tanks in Ikwo community of Ebonyi State, Nigeria. Triplicate water sampling was performed  over a 3-month sampling regime. Onsite determination of odour, colour, pH and temperature, and isolation and enumeration of  Escherichia coli were done using standard procedures. The identity of the isolates was confirmed using molecular techniques, and the  susceptibility of the isolates to 11 antibiotics was determined following the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion assay. Multiple antibiotic resistance  phenotypes and indices (MARPs and MARI) were equally determined. Our findings revealed that the RHRWs had unobjectionable odour  and were colourless. Across the 3-month o sampling, the pH ranged from 6.9 to 7.8 while the temperature was between 24 °C and 29 C.  While E. coli was absent in samples E (September), H (August and October) and J (August, September, and October), the highest E. coli  count in August, September, and October was 37, 32, and 38 cfu/100 mL, respectively. The antibiotic susceptibility test on 40 E. coli  isolates showed high resistance to ampicillin (100%), aztreonam (98%), cefotetan (97%), nitrofurantoin (90%), imipenem (83%),  streptomycin (72%), and ertapenem (69%). Interestingly, the  ighest MARP, 11 (AK/S/ETP/IMI/OFX/NOR/AMP/CTT/ATM/F/TE) (sample B),  and the least, 4 (IMI/AMP/CTT/ATM) were recorded in samples B and D, respectively in September. MARI was from 0.42 to 1.00. The  physical parameters conform with WHO standards, on the other hand, detection of E. coli poses risks of water-borne illness(es) and  transmission of antimicrobial resistance. Hence stringent measures including proper treatment, sanitation and hygiene are advocated to  safeguard the health of dwellers who depend on this water source for daily life activities.
Effectiveness of Agricultural Technologies and Constraints of Cassava Farming on the Production in Ido local Government of Oyo state, Ibadan, Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi R. T. , Oyedeji M. B. , Egbunu U. S. , Godwin O. R.
Published: April 2024

The study investigated the effectiveness of agricultural technologies and constraint on cassava farming in Ido Local Government Area of Oyo State, Nigeria. One hundred and forty-eight well-structured questionnaires were used for this study to obtain data for this study from five selected villages. Data obtained were analyzed using percentage and Chi-Square to compare the significance among the variables in this study. The results showed that Cassava production was dominated by males (51.4%) as against females (48.6%), an active age group of 41-50 years (56.7%), more of married people (88.5%) to unmarried (2.7%). The study area was characterized with an average level of secondary education (54.7%). There was no significant relationship between the socioeconomic characteristics of the respondents and agricultural technologies used. This research hereby recommended that the government should make available agricultural technologies to the farmers and they should be aware of the technologies through the extension agent.
Hepatoprotective Effect of Ethanolic Extract of Cnestis ferruginea Roots on Carbon tetrachloride-Induced Liver Damage in Male Rats
Authors: Okoro E. O.
Published: April 2024

Hepatoprotection or antihepatotoxicity is the ability of an agent or chemical to prevent damage to the liver. These hepatoprotective agents mitigate the liver injury caused by the hepatotoxic agents. Therefore, the objective of this paper was to investigate the hepatoprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Cnestis ferruginea roots on carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced liver damage in male rats using appropriate standard methods. A single dose of CCl4 administration significantly (p<0.05) increased the levels of ALT and AST in the positive control group, compared to the negative control group. Also, a significant (p<0.05) increase in the level of ALP and TB was seen in the positive control group relative to the negative control group.  While, pre-treatment with either the extract or the standard drug significantly (p<0.05) reduced the levels of hepatic enzymes of serum (ALT, AST and ALP) and TB, when compared with the positive control group. Similarly, the activity of Glutathione-s-transferase (GST), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) in the liver of untreated rats (induced with CCl4)was significantly decreased (p<0.05) in comparison with the rats treated with the extracts and the standard drug. Thus, treatment of the CCl4 -induced rats with the extracts for fourteen days resulted in the reversal of the CCl4- induced liver damage in the rats with the high dose (200 mg/kg) giving the best result which was comparable with the standard drug. Therefore the ethanolic extract of C. ferruginea roots protects the liver against CCl4 -induced oxidative stress.
Examining factors influencing delay of construction projects in Tanzania: A case of Gerenzani- Mbagala BRT road
Authors: Killo Omari , Rwela Anderson Gregory
Published: April 2024

This study examined the factors influencing the delay in the Gerezani-Mbagala BRT road construction project in Dar es Salaam. Specifically, the study examined client and consultant related factors that resulted in the delay in road construction in the study area. The study was guided by resource-based theory. The study used a descriptive research design and adopted purposive and stratified sampling techniques to select 50 members of the sample of the study. On the other hand, a questionnaire and interview tools were used to solicit information from the respondents. Additionally, the appropriate model for data analysis was the logistic regression model. The findings showed that limited funds provided by the client and poor communication had statistically significant associations with project delays in the Gerezani-Mbagala BRT construction project. Also, the results revealed that a delay in approving major changes and a lack of experience among the consultants had a statistically significant influence on the delays in the Gerezani-MbagalaBRT construction project. The study further revealed that delays in payments from the client and rework due to errors made by the construction personnel were significantly associated with project delays in the Gerezani-Mbagala BRT construction project. The study concludes that client-related and consultantrelated significantly caused the delays in the Gerezani-Mbagala BRT construction project. The study recommends that the client should provide enough time to produce project briefs and other feasibility studies, as this would lessen the impact of inaccurate project cost estimation, unforeseen site circumstances, and slow site clearances on the delivery of the construction project.