bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Estrategias y prácticas científicas de las revistas científicas latinoamericanas de la comunicación. Una aproximación a sus características estructurales
Authors: León-Duarte Gustavo Adolfo
Published: October 2022

La producción científica de las revistas aquí analizadas destaca la existencia de una perspectiva de estudio especializada y dominante en el campo de la investigación latinoamericana en comunicación en los últimos años. Esta perspectiva de estudio tiene claramente dos tendencias de abordaje práctico. Una tendencia es la que se debate en la investigación aplicada a la comunicación en medios, donde existe la predominancia de dos líneas particulares de estudio y hoy quizás convertidas en las dos principales vertientes de estudio dentro de la investigación latinoamericana de la comunicación. Por otro lado, se enfatiza la investigación de la comunicación propiamente académica, donde, en líneas generales, su idea de construcción se retroalimenta desde una particular perspectiva de estudio de la comunicación que, sin lugar, a dudas es análoga a lo que plantean y demandan por separado y con distintos matices dos de las principales iniciativas institucionales y colectivos académicos que generan hoy en día el Pensamiento Latinoamericano de la Comunicación (PLC): La llamada Escuela Latinoamericana de la Comunicación (ELACOM) y la Asociación Latinoamericana de Investigadores de la Comunicación (ALAIC).
Predictors of anti-glycaemic medication-taking among adults with diabetes mellitus seeking care in a tertiary hospital in Cape Coast, Ghana
Authors: T.D. Baah Amaris , Adjei George , Eliason Sebastian
Published: October 2022

Objectives: This study sought to assess the level of anti-glycaemic medication-taking and its predictors among adults living with diabetes receiving treatment at Cape Coast Teaching Hospital (CCTH).Design: This was a cross-sectional study carried out among adults living with diabetes and receiving care at CCTH. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and anti-glycaemic medication-taking were gathered using a structured questionnaire. A scale consisting of 4 domains (filling prescribed medication; taking medications appropriately ac-cording to the instructions of healthcare professionals; practising behavioural modifications, and showing up for fol-low-up appointments) and eight items was used to measure the level of anti-glycaemic medication-taking. Descriptive statistics, chi-square test (and Fisher’s exact test where appropriate), bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used in analysing the data.Setting: The study was carried out in the diabetes clinic in Cape Coast Teaching Hospital.Participants: The total enumerative sampling technique was used to select 250 adults living with diabetes and receiv-ing care at CCTH.Main outcome measures: Anti-glycaemic medication-takingResults: Out of 250 participants studied, 42% had high anti-glycaemic medication-taking. Predictors of anti-glycae-mic medication-taking included; forgetfulness (aOR=0.02, 95% CI: 0.00-0.64, p<0.001), patient’s involvement in treatment plan (aOR=0.12, 95% CI: 0.02-0.64, p=0.014) and having good knowledge about one’s medication (aOR=2.34, 95% CI: 1.10-4.98, p=0.028).Conclusion: Less than half of the sample population (42%) had high anti-glycaemic medication-taking, with forget-fulness, involvement in the treatment plan and good knowledge about anti-glycaemic medications, predicting medi-cation-taking.
Predictors of weight reduction in a Nigerian family practice setting
Authors: M. Ogunbode Adetola , O. Owolabi Mayowa , O. Ogunbode Olayinka , A. Adebusoye Lawrence , Ogunniyi Adesola
Published: October 2022

Objectives: This study identified the predictors of weight reduction among adult obese patients in a Family Practice Setting and developed a statistical model to predict weight reduction.Design: A prospective cohort design.Setting: The Family Practice Clinic, University College Hospital, Ibadan, NigeriaParticipants and study tools: Obese adults were recruited into a three-month weight reduction program. Patient Information Leaflets were used for counselling, while questionnaires were administered to obtain socio-demographic and lifestyle factors. Potential predictors were assessed using the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, Zung Depression Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem scale, Garner’s Eating Attitude Test-26 (EAT-26), 24-hour dietary recall and International Physical Activity Questionnaire-short form. Anthropometric indices, blood pressure and Fast-ing Lipid Profile were assessed. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for analysis with a significance set at α0.05.Results: Most 99(76.2%) of the 130 participants achieved weight reduction and had a median weight change of -2.3kg (IQR-4, -0.5), with 66 (66.7%) out of 99 attaining the weight reduction target of 10%. The regression model showed predictors of weight reduction to be Total Cholesterol [TC] (p=0.01) and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol [LDL-C] (p=0.03). The statistical model derived for Weight reduction = 0.0028 (LDL-C) -0.029 (TC)-0.053 (EAT-26) +0.041(High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol). The proportion of variance of the model tested was R2 = 0.3928 (ad-justed R2 = 0.2106).Conclusion: Predictors of weight reduction among patients were eating attitude score, Total Cholesterol, Low-Density Lipid and High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol levels. A statistical model was developed for managing obesity among patients.
Patient treatment cost of oral diseases in Ghana
Authors: Y. Deh Seli , Nonvignon Justice , Aikins Moses , A. Agyemang Samuel , C. Aryeetey Genevieve
Published: October 2022

Objectives: To estimate patient treatment cost of oral diseases in GhanaDesign: A cross-sectional study design using cost-of-illness analysis was employedSetting: The study was conducted at the dental unit of the University of Ghana Hospital, LegonParticipants: About185 patients attending the dental unit of the hospital were selectedInterventions: NoneMain outcome measures: Direct medical and non-medical costs, indirect costs, and intangible costs of treatment of oral conditionsResults: The estimated average cost of treatment for oral diseases was US$ 35.75. The total cost was US$ 6,614.11, with the direct and indirect costs constituting 94.5% and 5.5%, respectively of the total cost. Direct medical costs constituted 86.9%, while direct non-medical costs constituted 13.1% of the total direct cost. The richer socio-economic group had the highest cost per quintile, with a mean of US$ 46.69. The intangible cost described was highest for pain (47.1%), followed by difficulty in eating (40.8%) and sleeping (34.6%) for both men and women.Conclusion: The costs of oral diseases are huge and cannot be overlooked. Oral diseases also pose significant produc-tivity losses to patients.
Pyrethrum marc rates and intra-row spacing influence on selected soil chemical parameters and yield of bush bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.) grown on andosol under rainfed conditions
Authors: Munyampundu Emmanuel , Rukangantambara Hamudu , Habimana Sylvestre , Rutayisire Théoneste , Niyonkuru Rose
Published: October 2022

Bush bean is an important pulse crop that enriches the Rwandan diet and is a source of cash. This staple crop is widely grown in Rwanda. However, the improper spacing and inadequate application rates of organic inputs result in low yields. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of intra-row-spacing and pymarc application rate on selected soil chemical parameters and bush bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L) yield on andosol under rainfed conditions. The experiment included five pymarc rates with four replications in a randomized complete block design: P0(No fertilizer), P1(250 kg ha-1 of NPK), P2(10 t ha-1 of pymarc + 250 Kg ha-1 of NPK), P3(15 t ha-1 of pymarc + 250 Kg ha-1 of NPK) and P4(20 t ha-1 of pymarc + 250 Kg ha-1 of NPK) and 3 spacing levels: S1(40 cm x 15 cm), S2(40 cm x 20 cm) and S3(40 cm x 30 cm). The results indicated that a significant difference was found between treatments and their interactions except for pH (p<0.05). Regarding pymarc treatments, P4 contained greater amounts of organic C(5.30 %), total N(0.30 %), available P(56.70 ppm), available K(81.30 mg dm-3), exchangeable Ca(12.61 Cmol Kg-1) and Mg(5.0 Cmol Kg-1) at harvesting compared to P0 and P1. According to plant spacing, S3 held higher amounts of OC(4.85 %), av. P(55.15 %), av. K(60.94 mg dm-3), exch. Ca(11.0 Cmol Kg-1) and exch. Mg(3.6 Cmol Kg-1) than S1. There was an interaction effect of pymarc and spacing on measured soil chemical properties except for soil pH. The correlation analysis between nutrients was positive, highly significant (p<0.01), and varied from moderate to strong (0.4<r<0.7 and r>0.7) except pH. The treatment with the highest bush bean yield was P2S1 with 3.03 t ha-1 and therefore it can be recommended to bush bean farmers of the volcanic highland region.
Factors associated with bacterial contamination of shallow well water sources. Case Study of Juja hostels Kiambu County
Authors: Kirori Purity , Matiru Viviene , Mutai Joseph
Published: October 2022

The use of water from polluted water sources poses numerous public health challenges in developing countries. The ultimate purpose of any solid and liquid waste management plan is to mitigate environmental pollution; these goals become unachievable in the absence of a participatory approach to integrated waste management. This study sought to determine the extent of underground pollution of groundwater sources in Juja Town. Sanitary inspection and water quality analysis are complementary and valuable tools for characterizing and protecting water safety. The quality of the shallow wells is of great importance because it is used for consumption in Juja hostels. A two-stage cluster sampling strategy was adopted to obtain a representative sample size. Data collection involved the administration of questionnaires and field observation checklists, and E. coli levels present in the water were determined by the number of positive tubes in the table of computation of most probable number (MPN). Results showed that the predominant types of waste disposal practices observed in Juja were septic tank systems (77%) for liquid waste and private collection (87.3%) for solid waste methods. Sixty-eight per cent of the water samples were found to be positive (they exceeded the WHO (2004) maximum permissible load of 0.01/100 ml for drinking water. Three sanitary risk factors had a statistically significant effect on the dependent variable: the distance of the septic tank from the well on the level of water contamination (0.016), the liquid waste management plan (0.039), and the fitness of the water well cover on the level of water contamination (0.024). Shallow well water sources are unsuitable for use in food processing and drinking due to the presence of E. coli bacteria. The consequences of consuming contaminated water can be expensive to treat. Water from wells in Juja is contaminated with E. coli levels ranging from <3 - >1000 MPN/g, indicating fecal contamination in the area's underground water sources.
Assessment of grain dust management systems among selected animal feed manufacturers in Kiambu County, Kenya
Authors: Kimanzi Virginia , Mburu Charles M. , Njogu Paul M.
Published: October 2022

The animal feed industry in Kenya has experienced rapid growth due to the increased demand for animal feed around the major towns. That equally increased the risks of exposure to grain dust among the workers. The level of awareness about the risks and the existing control measures has not been adequately studied and documented in Kenya. The overall objective of the study was to assess the dust management systems among selected animal feed manufacturers in Kiambu County, Kenya. The study adopted a cross-sectional study design. A total of 355 animal feed mill workers were sampled using Yamane’s formula. They assessed the dust management systems using structured questionnaires, interviews, and walk-through surveys. SPSS was used to process and analyze the collected data. The results showed that the majority of the workers had not been trained in the elements of grain dust management. None of the workers was aware of the air sampling measurements or the exposure limits. Only 16.13% of the feed millers controlled the dust using other engineering and administrative controls apart from ventilation. The study concluded that there was a need for improvement in dust management measures among the facilities and the workers. The study recommends improvement in the dust control measures whereby the workers should adhere to the set safety and health guidelines and the management of the animal feed manufacturers should provide continuous training, suitable gear, and development of engineering controls to minimize the exposure to grain dust.
Achieving zero hunger in Kenya: logistics management practices for enhancing organizational performance in agriculture and food authority
Authors: Chepleting Fridah , Namusonge Gregory , Nabuswa Elizabeth
Published: October 2022

This study sought to determine logistics management practices that may be leveraged to enhance the organizational performance of the Agriculture and Food Authority in Kenya (AFA). The study was motivated by Sustainable Development Goal 2, which advocates for zero hunger in the United Nations member states. The study was grounded in the lean theory that advocates the pull approach. The research design adopted by the study is the explanatory research design that is anchored in the post-positivist research philosophy. The study targeted 623 staff of the AFA, drawn from fifteen silos under its management. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were used to select a sample of 380 employees. Structured questionnaires were developed and used to collect data. The standard multiple regression approach was used to analyze the collected data. The analysis results confirmed that the three components of logistics management, namely; inventory management, transport management, and warehouse management, were positive and significant predictors of operational efficiency of the AFA tested at the 95% level of confidence. The study concluded that inventory management, transport management, and warehouse management are practices that could place the AFA in a good position to realize zero hunger in Kenya. However, the study adopted appropriate measures in both policy and managerial recommendations that the food agencies should embrace in enhancing the implementation of the best and most efficient supply chain management practices at the disposal of organizations’ performance. Future studies endeavor to identify other logistic management practices that can be complementary to the three identified in this study in enhancing the AFA's potential to achieve the zero hunger goal.
Avian species abundance and habitat association in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria
Authors: Yager Gabriel Ortyom , Alarape Abideen Abiodun , Wahab Adegoke Karounwi Munir , Geshi Suurshater
Published: October 2022

Appraisal of avian species, especially in urban areas, is paramount to determining the health of the environment. The research focused on the abundance, diversity, and habitat association of avian species within and around the new bridge in Makurdi metropolis, Benue State, Nigeria. The habitats selected were: Abattoir (Ab), Oxbow Lake (Ol), and Farmland (Fl). A line transect length of 100 m was laid (1 at Ab, 2 each at Ol and Fl). The line transect method was used to identify and estimate the abundance and diversity of birds (at 06:00–09:00 hrs and 15:00–18:00 hrs) aided with binoculars for 2 consecutive days weekly in June–November 2021. The Textbook on Birds of West Africa was used for the identification of the species. The dataset was analyzed using descriptive statistics and diversity indices. The result revealed a total number of 23 species (4061 individuals) belonging to 15 families. Five species (41 individuals), 19 species (2,804 individuals), and 8 species (1,216 individuals) were recorded at Abattoir, Oxbowlake, and Farmland, respectively. Ploceus cucullatus (55.68%) was the most abundant species, while Accipitridae (12.5%) was the dominant family recorded. Variation in density varies across the habitat, with farmland (723.13) being the densest area. The diversity indices indicated that farmland (D: 0.668, H1: 1.571, and richness (2.267)) had a high value when compared to other habitats. Conservation and management of urban avian species should be encouraged to promote avi-tourism.
Agricultural education for youth empowerment in Nigeria: a brief review.
Authors: Adeyeba A. O.
Published: October 2022

This study was carried out to review agricultural education for youth empowerment in Nigeria. The study adopted a qualitative research approach and existing studies on related studies were sourced online. The major findings of the study disclosed that motivational strategies for effective implementation of youth empowerment programmes in Nigeria include: adequate remuneration of trainers, disbursement of long and short term loans, bursary scheme for youth educational empowerment, sharing of sewing machines, among others. Supervisory strategies for effective implementation of youth empowerment programmes in Nigeria include, provision of adequate supervision task force for youth empowerment programmes and preparation of guidelines for reporting youth empowerment training activities. Managerial strategies for effective implementation of youth empowerment programmes in Nigeria among others include: development of scopes and sequence of the training programmes, provision of a curriculum for youth empowerment programmes and proper adherence to the curriculum contents. The policy strategies for effective implementation of youth empowerment programmes in Nigeria include, promulgation of decree for compulsory youth empowerment training programmes and centres, adoption of youth oriented policies in the States and formulation of decrees for formal entrepreneurship training programmes in institutions. Based on the findings of the study, the following recommendations were made: youth empowerment programmes should be introduced in the curriculum of institutions of higher learning. Tertiary institutions should put in efforts in teaching vocational education and agricultural skills acquisition programmes to enable every Nigerian to be self-reliant, self-developed and creative.
Effects of selected green manure on the growth of Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schum and Thonn) Taubert seedlings
Authors: Bolanle-Ojo O.I. , Akinrinola O.J. , Ibrahim T.O. , Rufai S.O. , Ogunsiji A.O. , Ogundele O.O. , Ogunbela A.A. , Bolanle-Ojo O.T.
Published: October 2022

Despite the high medicinal properties of Tetrapleura tetraptera to most of the people of Nigeria and other nations of the world, it only exist as a protected and semi domesticated plant. This study was carried out to determine the effect of green manure (Chromolena odorata and Tithonia diversifolia) on the growth of Tetrapleura tetraptera seedlings with a view to enhancing growth without causing any damage to the environment. The treatments were Chromolena odorata leaves (5g, 10g, 15g and 20g), Tithonia diversifolia leaves (5g, 10g, 15g and 20g) and the control. Thirty-six (36) healthy seedlings were selected and transplanted into polythene pots filled with 1 kg of loamy soil with different levels of C. odorata and T. diversifolia. Each treatment was replicated four times and laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Initial growth parameters were taken after transplanting into polythene pots and every other data were collected every two weeks for the period of 12 weeks. The data collected were height growth (cm) collar diameter (cm) and leaf production. Data collected were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). Results from ANOVA revealed that there was no significant (p>0.05) difference among the treatments used at 5% level of probability which implies that varying level of green manure employed shows no significant effect on the height, stem diameter and leaf production of T. tetrapleura seedlings.
Effects of pre-treatment and sowing media on the germination of Caesalpinia bonduc (L.) Roxb. seeds
Authors: Jayeola A.A. , Bolanle-Ojo O.I. , Akinnate A.E. , Ogundele O.O. , Ogunsiji A.O. , Ibrahim T.O. , Rufai S.O.
Published: October 2022

Caesalpinia bonduc is a plant that has high medicinal properties and the seeds are used for games. Despite the importance of this species, little or no attention is given to its regeneration. Hence this study investigated the effects of pre-treatment and sowing media on the germination of C. bonduc. The seeds were subjected to different pre-treatments; T1=Topsoil + Soaking; T2=River sand + Soaking; T3= Topsoil + Nicking; T4= River sand + Nicking; T5=Topsoil + Nicking and Soaking; T6=River sand + Nicking and Soaking; T7= Topsoil and T8= River sand. The soaking period used for this study was 24 hours while file was used for nicking the seeds. Results revealed that there was significant (p<0.05) difference in the germination of the seeds of S. bonduc subjected to different treatments. Mean value result indicated that control for topsoil gave the highest germination, followed by control for river sand while topsoil + nicking + soaking and river sand + nicking + soaking gave the least germination. It was deduced from this study that freshly collected matured seeds of C. bonduc do not require any pre-treatment for germination to occur. This study also revealed that freshly collected seeds of C. bonduc do not have any dormancy problem as the seeds germinated after 9 days of sowing. Seeds of C. bonduc harvested can be planted immediately for higher germination percentage.
Prioritization of Water Use Rights in Ethiopia: Exploring the Perspectives and Practices in the Governance of Awash River Basin
Authors: Embaye Zbelo Haileselassie , Adam Achamyeleh Gashu
Published: October 2022

Water governance mainly strives to ensure equitable and efficient allocation and prioritization of use rights. The scarcity of water resources in any setting can be a cause for conflict, wastage, depletion, and/or pollution. Prioritization of water use rights is considered as important principle of water governance to protect the human right to water, accommodate interests, avoid conflict, wastage and allocate available volume of water to potential users. This article explores the perspectives and practices of prioritization approach of water governance in Awash River basin. Qualitative research approach was employed, and the findings indicate that there are multiple interpretations by the key actors of the priority ladder amidst general and insufficient policy and legal frameworks. The practice also indicates that water allocation plan for the medium and large-scale water users are stated on papers whereas actual allocations are made based on convenience. It is critical to devise water reform and set prioritizing principles and standards. Moreover there is the need to apply the most feasible and comprehensive approach in water governance and avail the essential resources and technologies.
Comment: Resolution of Collective Labour Disputes by Labour Relations Board in Ethiopia: Critical Reflections
Authors: Bisare Bilate
Published: October 2022

This comment examines the Legal framework of collective labour disputes (CLD) resolution by the Labour Relation Board (LRB) in Ethiopia. Only two members of the LRB out of seven members (and two alternate members) are from the legal profession. Moreover, there is no provision (under the Labour Proclamation) regarding the selection criteria of other members of the Board. The decision of the Board is rendered by majority vote and appeal is permitted only on error relating to legal issues. The establishment of LRB that is empowered to decide on CLDs is indeed an extremely important initiative as the nature of collective labour cases demands collective bargaining and labour law experts. However, criteria regarding professional profile are not set out under the Proclamation for the selection of members of the LRB; and the majority of LRB members are not legal professionals. There should thus be clear criteria for the selection of members and there is the need to include more legal professionals in the LRB.
Effect of intramuscular administration of oxytetracycline on serum kinetics of diminazene aceturate in healthy male Sahel goats
Authors: Gana S.M. , Onyeyili P.A. , Umaru B. , Fomnya H.J. , Ngulde S.I. , Karatu A.L.
Published: October 2022

Serum kinetics of diminazene aceturate following intramuscular (IM) administration of diminazene aceturate alone at 3.5 mg/kg and its combination with oxytetracycline at 20 mg/kg were evaluated in 6 healthy male Sahel goats to ascertain the effect of oxytetracycline on serum concentration and pharmacokinetic parameters of diminazene aceturate. Two groups (A and B) of three goats each were used, and oxytetracycline was administered 30 minutes prior to diminazene aceturate administration. Blood samples were collected at various intervals (0.17 h – 72 h) post-drug administration, and diminazene serum concentrations were measured using the method of Klatt and Hadju. Kinetic determinants were calculated employing a two-compartment open model. Mean serum concentrations of diminazene aceturate of 2.43 ± 0.95 μg/ml and 1.73 ± 0.44 μg/ml at 0.17 h were measured in groups A and B, respectively. These serum concentrations were found to increase until a peak concentration of 6.91 ± 0.59 μg/ml and 7.55 ± 1.20 μg/ml were reached at 2.0 h in groups A and B, respectively. The peak concentrations subsequently decreased at 72 h post diminazene aceturate administration with serum concentrations of 0.00 ± 0.00 and 0.32 ± 0.28 μg/ml in groups A and B, respectively. Pharmacokinetics parameters like the volume of distribution (Vd), elimination half-life (T½β), concentration maximum (Cmax), absorption rate constant (α), and area under the curve from 0 to 72 h (AUC0 – 72) were significantly higher in goats treated with diminazene aceturate and oxytetracycline combination while total body clearance (Cl), and elimination rate constant (β), were significantly higher in goats treated with diminazene aceturate alone. The mean residence time (MRT) of diminazene aceturate increased from 19.70 ± 2.53 h in diminazene aceturate treatment to 25.11 ± 1.81 h in diminazene aceturate and oxytetracycline treatment. Oxytetracycline was therefore found to alter the elimination pattern of diminazene aceturate in oxytetracycline pre-treated goats.
Comparative study of the analgesic effects of Bungarus fasciatus snake venom from Vinh Phuc and Tien Giang Provinces of Vietnam
Authors: Tran Тhien Vu , Nguyen Trang Thuy Thi , Hoang Anh Ngoc , Utkin Yuri N
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To determine the analgesic activity of Bungarus fasciatus venoms and their fractions from two Vietnamese Provinces.

Methods: Male Swiss Albino mice were randomly divided into three groups containing 8 to 10 mice each. Control group was injected subcutaneously with normal saline, standard group received aspirin solution (50 mg/kg) perorally, and study group received a solution of crude venom or isolated fractions in physiological saline. To determine analgesic activity, acetic acid writhing and tail immersion tests were used. The venoms were separated by liquid chromatography and the analgesic activity of the fractions was analyzed.

Results: Both venoms showed analgesic effect in the acetic acid writhing test, but only the venom from Tien Giang showed analgesic effect in the tail immersion test. The bioactive fractions of Vinh Phuc and Tien Giang venoms were significantly different, with most of Vinh Phuc venom fractions being more active (p < 0.05). Thus, 35 min after the injection, the number of writhings decreased from 15 - 16 in the control to 0.85 ± 0.34 for the BF-4VS (Vinh Phuc) fraction compared to 2.67 ± 1.20 (p < 0.05) for the BF-4DT (Thien Giang) fraction. Two proteins with analgesic activity were isolated from Vinh Phuc venom, and one with greater activity matched the known B. fasciatus phospholipase A2.

Conclusion: The analgesic activity of two samples of B. fasciatus venom from two different provinces in Vietnam reveal that their pharmacological profiles differ. The isolates can be explored as leads in the development of new analgesic agents.
Berberine regulates endocrine function in mice with polycystic ovary syndrome through PI3K/Akt/GSK-3β insulin signaling pathway
Authors: Gao Dan , Liu Yaxin
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To study the influence of berberine on endocrine status in mice with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and the underlying mechanism of action.

Methods: A total of 80 mice were used in this research. Sixteen mice were randomly selected to serve as control. The remaining 64 mice were subcutaneously given dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) injection to establish a mouse model of PCOS. The PCOS mice were randomly divided into model group, and low-dose-, medium-dose and high-dose berberine groups. Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and expression levels of PI3K/Akt/GSK-3 signaling pathway related proteins (PI3K 85, Akt2, p-GSK-3 Tyr216, p-GSK-3β Ser9, and GSK-3) were evaluated.

Results: At 60 and 120 min, OGTT blood glucose level of model group was significantly higher than that of blank control group, but it was significantly lower in the berberine dose groups than in model group (p < 0.05). There were significantly higher protein expression levels of pi3k85, AKT2 and p-GSK-3β tyr116 in berberine dose groups than in model mice, but the protein levels of p-GSK-3β ser9 in berberine dose groups were significantly lower than that in model mice.

Conclusion: Berberine improved endocrine function in PCOS mice through a mechanism involving regulation of the key proteins of PI3K/Akt/GSK-3 β insulin signaling pathway. Thus, berberine may potentially play a similar role in humans with PCOS functions. However, clinical trials need to be carried out first.
Effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy on cognitive impairment after aneurysm subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Li Junwei , Ren Shaohua , Ren Jinrui , Zhen Zigang , Li Lirong , Hao Xudong , Ji Hongming , Zhao Yuanli
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) on cognitive impairment after aneurysm subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH).

Methods: The current study was carried out in a regional neurosurgical center in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province of China from January 2019 to September 2020. A total of 150 patients with persistent cognitive dysfunction at 3 months after aSAH onset were enrolled, which were randomly classified into group A (HBOT) and group B (control) via the random number table method. The outcome was evaluated by Montreal cognitive assessment (MoCA).

Results: There were no significant differences between group A and group B with regard to MoCA score and proportions of normal MoCA patients at 3 months after HBOT (p > 0.05). Both groups showed no significant differences in proportions of normal MoCA patients at 6 months after HBOT (p > 0.05). However, there were significant differences between group A and group B with MoCA score of patients at 6 months after HBOT (p < 0.05). There were also significant differences in MoCA score and proportions of normal MoCA patients at 9 months after HBOT.

Conclusion: HBOT alleviates cognitive impairment after aSAH, and thus may be used to manage cognitive impairment in patients after aSAH. However, further clinical trials are required prior to application in clinical practice.
Effects of different doses of ropivacaine on postoperative analgesia, incidence of complications and stress factors in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Sun Xiaobo , Liu Yuting , Li Jian , Liu Haihua
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To study the influence of various doses of ropivacaine (Ropi) on postoperative analgesia, incidence of complications and stress factors in patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods: One hundred and fifty (150) patients who received TKA treatment in Ganzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from January 2017 to January 2019 were randomly assigned to low-dose Ropi (0.15 %, group A), medium-dose Ropi (0.20 %, group B) and high-dose Ropi (0.30 %, group C), with 50 patients in each group. Changes in visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, MMSE scores, cognitive dysfunction, serum cortisol (Cor) and adverse reactions were determined before and after surgery.

Results: Compared with group A, scores on rest visual analogue scale (RVAS) and passive visual analogue scale (PVAS) were significantly higher in low-dose and high-dose Ropi groups 24 and 48 h postoperatively (p < 0.05). Serum Cor levels in low-dose Ropi-treated patients were significantly lower than those in the other groups at 24 and 48 h after surgery (p < 0.05). The MMSE scores at 48 and 72 h after surgery were significantly higher in low-dose Ropi-treated patients than in the other 2 groups. The number of patients with cognitive impairment after surgery (POCD) was significantly higher in groups B and C than in A (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Low-dose Ropi exerts significant analgesic effect on elderly patients undergoing TKA, and improves their cognitive function without increasing stress response. Therefore, it should be further investigated on a larger scale for its potential as a candidate analgesic for patients after TKA.
Effect of combination of botulinum toxin and electromyographic biofeedback therapy on post-stroke patients with lower limb muscle spasticity
Authors: Wang Honglin , Wang Xueming , Yu Changsheng
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the clinical effect of combined use of botulinum toxin type A and electromyographic biofeedback therapy (EMGBFT) on post-stroke patients with lower limb muscle spasticity.

Methods: The data of 91 post-stroke patients with lower limb muscle spasticity who were admitted to Shanghai Seventh People’s Hospital (January 2020 -January 2021) were retrospectively analyzed, and they were divided into control group (COG, n = 45) and study group (STG, n = 46) based on the treatments given. All patients received conventional rehabilitation and training. Patients in COG were treated with EMGBFT, whereas those in STG received botulinum toxin type A as well as EMGBFT. The parameters determined in the two groups were degree of spasticity, lower limb motor function [3m-Timed Up and Go (3m - TUG) and 10m - Walk Test (10 m - WT)], active range of motion (AROM) of ankle dorsiflexion, ability of daily living (based on Barthel Index, BI), and adverse reactions before and after treatment.

Results: The effectiveness of the treatments on spasticity was higher in STG than in COG (p < 0.05). After treatment, the times taken for 3m-TUG and 10m-WT were significantly shorter in STG than in COG (p < 0.05). The AROM of patients in both groups was expanded, but the expansion was significantly greater in STG than in COG (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Combined therapy using botulinum toxin and EMGBFT effectively relieved lower limb muscle spasticity of post-stroke patients, and also improved their lower limb motion function and daily living ability. Thus, the combined therapy provided better management of lower limb spasticity. However, further clinical trials are required prior to its adoption in clinical practice.
Comparison of efficacy and safety of three different drugs combined with radiotherapy in the treatment of patients with advanced pancreatic cancer
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Haifeng , Wang Ying , Sun Chenggang
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the clinical efficacy and safety of three different drugs combined with radiotherapy, viz, apatinib mesylate combined radiotherapy (group A), gemcitabine combined oxaliplatin (group B), and Huachansu capsules combined radiotherapy (group C)] in advanced pancreatic cancer patients.

Methods: A total of 174 patients with advanced pancreatic cancer treated in Yantai Qishan Hospital, Yantai, China from June 2015 to December 2016 were randomly and evenly divided into groups A, B, and C. The incidence of adverse reactions during treatment, immune reaction, efficacy, quality of life, and survival were compared among the three groups after four courses of treatment.

Results: Compared with groups B and C, the incidence of nausea and vomiting was higher in group A (p < 0.05), but the incidence of other adverse events was not significantly different (p > 0.05). Group A showed higher response rate and disease control rate, higher CD4+, CD4+/CD8+ levels and QOL scores, as well as lower CD8+ level in peripheral blood after treatment than groups B and C (p < 0.05). Group A also exhibited longer median OS and median PFS, and higher 2-year survival than groups B and C (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Among the three different drug treatments combined with radiotherapy, apatinib mesylate combined radiotherapy enhanced efficacy and quality of life, and lengthen the survival time of advanced pancreatic cancer patients. However, additional clinical trials are required to validate these findings.
HSF-1 attenuates isoflurane-induced cognitive dysfunction by inhibiting TLR2 expression
Authors: Jia Xu , Huang Xuezhu , Duan Mingda , Qiu Wei , Zhang Xuanbo , Wang Xin
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the regulatory effects of heat shock factor 1 (HSF-1) in the progression of postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD).

Methods: Isoflurane (ISO)-induced POCD model in rats was established to determine the role of HSF-1 in POCD. Morris water maze test was used to evaluate the learning and memory abilities of the POCD rats while mRNA and protein levels of HSF-1 were determined by RNA extraction/quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and western blot analysis, respectively.

Results: The mRNA and protein levels of HSF-1 were significantly reduced in ISO model, but OE-HSF-1 treatment significantly elevated HSF-1 level (p < 0.05). ISO treatment also significantly decreased escape latency but increased the decreased target quadrant of the rats, while HSF-1 upregulation reversed these effects (p < 0.05). Additionally, HSF-1 alleviated ISO-induced hippocampal injury, improved ISO-induced hippocampal inflammation, and inhibited ISO-induced hippocampal apoptosis. Furthermore, HSF-1 was modulated by POCD via TLR2/NF-κB pathway (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: HSF-1 attenuates ISO-induced cognitive dysfunction by suppressing TLR2 expression. This activity provides a potential strategy to prevent POCD via HSF-1.
Characteristics of Tibetan medicine preparations used in the Chinese-Tibetan Hospital of Derong County
Authors: Zhao Meiling , Zhou You , Fu Ke , Li Xiaoli , Arong Qupi , Xu Min , Luorong Zhenzhui , Liang Yuan , Zeng Xuemei , Fan Gang , Zhang Jing , Wang Zhang
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the Tibetan medicine preparations used in Derong Chinese-Tibetan Hospital. Methods: In this study, 115 preparations were collected from the Chinese-Tibetan Hospital of Derong County. A statistical table of information on medicine preparation was prepared in Excel format, and it included information on the forms of preparations, medicinal materials, medicinal parts used, frequency of use, and clinical applications.

Results: The 115 preparations were mainly pills. In clinics, they were used for treating liver disease, stomach-ache, gastric ulcer, nephrotic pain and fever. It was found that 226 medicines were used in various preparations. The plant components used varied from whole herbs, fruits, seeds, roots, rhizomes, and animal-based medicines, to flowers. The most frequently used plants/herbs were Terminalia chebula Retz., Carthamus tinctorius L., Aucklandia lappa Decne., Alpinia katsumadai Hayata and Phyllanthus emblica L. The most commonly used drug combinations involved three fruits (Terminalia chebula Retz., Terminalia billerica (Gaertn.) Roxb and Phyllanthus emblica L.). The preparations and medicinal materials used for liver and stomach diseases are described in detail in this article. These include Terminalia chebula Retz., Aucklandia lappa Decne. and Carthamus tinctorius L.

Conclusion: The study has analysed the characteristics and clinical uses of Tibetan medicine preparations and summarised the diseases and medicinal materials in the Tibetan area. These preparations and medicinal materials, with their many years of clinical use, may become invaluable gifts of Tibetan medicine to the world.
Triiodothyronine participates in odontoblast differentiation of apical papilla stem cells through regulation of ERK and p38MAPK signaling pathways
Authors: Xu Jiali , He Lei , Yang Haibing
Published: October 2022

Purpose: To investigate the effect of triiodothyronine (T3) in odontoblast differentiation of apical papilla stem cells, and the mechanism of action involved.

Methods: Apical unclosed permanent molars extracted from patients due to orthodontics and impaction were selected. The extracted teeth were cultured in the isolation stage of SCAP cells. The cells were exposed to different concentrations of T3. The effects of ERK and p38 MAPK signaling pathways on activity of alkaline phosphatase (ALP) were determined. Calcium deposition was measured using a calcium determination kit, while the expression of BMP - 2 protein by T3 was determined by Western blot assay. Fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (FqPCR) method was used to determine the mRNA expression of BMP.

Results: The ALP activities were significantly higher in T3 groups than in control group. Relative to control, there were marked differences in ALP activity and calcium deposition in T3 group, T3 + PD group and T3 + SB group (p < 0.05). Relative to control, the mRNA and protein expressions of BMP-2 in T3 group were increased significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: Triiodothyronine regulates the differentiation of apical papilla stem cells into dentin through ERK and p38MAPK signaling pathways. This provides the mechanism underlying odontoblast differentiation of apical papilla stem cells.
Pulsed Lased Deposition of Single-Crystalline (001) Oriented Pb(Zr0.5T0.5)O3 Thin Film on PrScO3 Substrate
Authors: Mtebwa Mahamudu H. , Setter Nava
Published: October 2022

High quality thin films are important for domain engineering applications such as on-volatile memory applications. Single crystalline (001) oriented Pb (Zr0.5T0.5)O3 thin films have been grown by pulsed laser deposition on PrScO3 with strontium ruthenate (SRO) electrodes. Thin films were prepared from PZT ceramic targets with 15% excess PbO to compensate for lead loss at high deposition temperature. Layer by layer/step flow growth mode observed on AFM images has been realised by using a single terminated PrScO3 substrate as well as optimized deposition parameters. XRD measurements have confirmed the highly (001) oriented tetragonal symmetry. Furthermore, analysis conducted using piezoresponse force microscopy has shown that the thin films are monodomain with spontaneous ferroelectric polarization preferentially pointing upwards, i.e., away from the substrate. The absence of ferroelastic domains and the observed single ferroelectric domain structure are the results of both relatively small compressive misfit strain as well as favourable electrical boundary conditions.

Keywords:    PZT; Pulsed Laser Deposition; Epitax; Thin film
Pulse-Field Analysis Diversity of Extended Spectrum Beta Lactamases Producing Gram Negative Bacteria Isolated from Periplaneta americana (Cockroaches)
Authors: Popoola Omolara D. , Efuntoye Moses O. , Agu Georgia C. , Thomas Benjamin T.
Published: October 2022

Extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) producing bacteria are organisms of public health significance that have been implicated in prolonged hospital stay, treatment failures and higher fatalities. These organisms were originally thought to be widely distributed in hospital, but have since grown in terms of their epidemiological coverage. This study was therefore aimed at using pulse-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) to understand the diversity of ESBL producing organisms originating from cockroaches in Ago-Iwoye, Nigeria. The diversity was determined by using a set of twenty six (26) ESBL producing bacterial strains isolated from cockroaches sampled in Ago-Iwoye community, Ogun State, Nigeria. PFGE analysis revealed three pulsotypes (distinct profile) with no distinct isolates present on a pulsotype. It was however observed that no pulsotype had less than two (2) isolates in any case, while isolates from different communities displayed identical profiles. In conclusion, clonal distributions of ESBL producing organisms on cockroaches are without bias to specimens and/or the community sampled.

Keywords: ESBL; Gram negative bacteria; PFGE; Diversity;
Urinary Schistosomiasis and Its Potential for Cancer and Hepato-Renal Function Alterations among the Residents of Asejire Dam, South-Western Nigeria
Authors: Adewale Omowumi O. , Odebode Monsurat O. , Mustapha Maryam O. , Adetuyi Oluwatosin A. , Adeleke Monsuru A.
Published: October 2022

Urinary schistosomiasis is of public health significance in sub-Saharan Africa with its prevalence being linked to carcinogenesis. However, there is a paucity of data to support this relationship. This study explored the prevalence and intensity of Schistosoma haematobium infections and its associations with cancer and hepatorenal function alterations in villages along the Asejire dam in the State of Osun, Nigeria. Urine samples from 152 consented participants (aged 18–75 years) from four communities were collected and examined for Schistosoma haematobium using the microscopy method. The blood serum of randomly selected infected and non-infected individuals (10 per group) was screened for tumor, inflammatory and hepato-renal function biomarkers. From the results, only one out of the four communities recorded cases of schistosomiasis with a prevalence of 26.5% (22/83) and overall infection prevalence was 14.47% (22/152). There was no statistical difference (p ˃ 0.05) in kidney, liver antioxidants, and lipid peroxidation markers in the infected and non–infected participants. The concentrations of antioxidants, inflammatory, and tumor markers were higher in Schistosoma infected individuals as compared with non-infected individuals. This justifies the need to monitor schistosomiasis-infected individuals for tumor, inflammatory and hepato-renal function biomarkers before they develop into cancer, liver, and kidney failure.

Keywords:    Urinary Schistosomiasis; tumor; and inflammatory markers; antioxidants; hepato-renal function; Asejire dam Nigeria
Population Characteristics of Selected Small Pelagic Fish Species along the Tanzanian Coast
Authors: Fabiani Godfrey , Chauka Leonard J. , Muhando Christopher A.
Published: October 2022

Although small pelagic fishing in Tanzania is rising, lack of information on population structure has been a significant concern in its management. This study aimed to determine the species composition, length-weight relationship and length at first maturity of Amblygaster sirm, Encrasicholina heteroloba, Encrasicholina punctifer, Stolephorus commersonii, and Spratelloides gracilis landed at Kilwa Kivinje, Kipumbwi and Shangani along the Tanzanian coast. These landing sites were chosen because of their locations and importance in the small pelagic fishery. Sampling was done monthly from October 2018 to June 2020. The catch composition was site specific such that  E. heteroloba dominated at Kilwa Kivinje and Shangani, while E. punctifer dominated at the Kipumbwi site. Further analysis shows allometric coefficient to be greater than 3 for A. sirm and E. punctifer, indicating positive allometric growth, while for S. commersonii and S. gracilis, the allometric coefficient was less than 3, indicating negative allometric growth. Our findings showed that length at first maturity (L50) differed, implying that these species start spawning at different sizes, an essential biological reference for sustainable small pelagic fish exploitation. We recommend seasonal closure of the fishery to maintain reproductive seasons since many species are multiple spawners.

Keywords: Population; Small pelagic; Maturity; Tanzania