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Fluorine-Doped Tin Oxide (FTO) thin films were deposited on a glass substrate using the spin coating technique and then annealed in both open air and nitrogen environments at temperatures between 500°C and 600°C. This study examined how annealing temperature affects the structural and electrical properties of the films. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed that the films had a polycrystalline structure, predominantly with the (110) plane. As the annealing temperature is increased, the crystal size also increased, leading to lower dislocation density and higher electron mobility. The resistivity of the films decreased with higher annealing temperatures, reaching its lowest value at 600°C. These findings indicate that annealing temperature is crucial for optimizing the structural and electrical properties of FTO thin films made via spin coating. The optimal annealing conditions were found to be 600°C in open air, resulting in a resistivity of 2.47x10-3 Ω-cm, sheet resistance of 1.08x10-2 Ω/square, the largest grain size of 18.41 nm, and the lowest values for dislocation density (2.95x1015 lines/cm²) and micro-strain (1.97x10-3). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Mutant BRAF targeted therapies remain a standard of care for the treatment of metastatic malignant melanoma (MM); however, high initial response rates are tempered by the persistence of residual MM cells that eventually lead to disease recurrence and mortality. As MM recurrence during targeted therapy can present with the simultaneous occurrence of multiple tumour nodules at the original body sites, we hypothesized the presence of an intrinsically resistant MM cell subpopulation. Objectives To identify an MM cell subpopulation that is intrinsically resistant to targeted therapy and possibly responsible for MM recurrence. Methods Using melanoma cell lines, we defined culture conditions for the reproducible three-dimensional growth of melanospheres to investigate putative cancer stem cell populations. We undertook RNA sequencing and bioinformatic analysis to characterize cell populations between adherent and nonadherent culture, and cells expressing or not expressing CD20. Furthermore, we defined an in vitro assay to evaluate the killing of melanoma cancer stem cells as a therapeutic test using combination therapies targeting driver mutation and CD20. Results We described the culture conditions that promote MM cells to form melanospheres with a reproducible colony-forming efficiency rate of 0.3–1.3%. RNA sequencing of melanosphere vs. conventional MM cell cultures (n = 6), irrespective of the BRAF mutation status, showed that melanosphere formation was associated with growth and differentiation transcriptional signatures resembling MM tumours. Importantly, melanosphere formation also led to the emergence of a CD20+ MM cell subpopulation, similar to that observed in primary human MM tumours. CD20+ MM cells were resistant to BRAF inhibitor therapy and, consistent with this finding, demonstrated a Forkhead box protein M1 transcriptomic profile (n = 6). Combining BRAF inhibitor and anti-CD20 antibody treatment led to the additional killing of previously resistant CD20+   BRAF mutant MM cells. Conclusions In patients with MM that harbour a CD20+ subpopulation, combined therapy with BRAF inhibitor and anti-CD20 antibody could potentially kill residual MM cells and prevent disease recurrence. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Although there has been a surge in the adoption of building information modelling (BIM) in the construction industry, the small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are still struggling and perceive its adoption as risky. The SMEs in developing economies are especially on the disadvantaged side of the digital divide. Extant studies have focused on large firms and there are scanty studies on the influence of the external environments on BIM adoption in SMEs. Thus, this study espouses institutional theory (INT) to examine the influence of coercive, mimetic, and normative pressures on BIM awareness and adoption in SMEs. Design/methodology/approach: A quantitative approach was employed, and data were collected from the Nigerian construction SMEs via an empirical questionnaire survey using a sequential stratified and convenient sampling method. Hypothesized relationships between the coercive, mimetic, and normative pressure and BIM in SMEs were empirically tested using the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) technique and the model was validated with the "PLSpredict" procedure. Findings: The results revealed that coercive and mimetic pressures significantly influence BIM adoption in SMEs while normative pressures have the strongest influence on BIM in SMEs. Also, BIM awareness is an important predictor of BIM adoption. The findings also shed light on the influence of firmographics on BIM awareness and adoption in Nigerian SMEs. Originality/value: The study empirically validates the applicability of INT and highlights that BIM adoption is not only influenced by internal responses to the need for efficiency but also by external pressures. It implies a clear need for intentional isomorphic pressures in driving BIM adoption in SMEs. The study employs the INT to explain a phenomenon that has not been theoretically explored in the context of SMEs in developing economies. Lastly, the study provided valuable insights into driving BIM adoption, together with the effective practical implications for implementation and potential research areas for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

: Erythroid cells play important roles in hemostasis and disease. However, there is still significant knowledge gap regarding stress erythropoiesis. : Two single-cell RNAseq datasets of erythroid cells on GEO with accession numbers GSE149938 and GSE184916 were obtained. The datasets from two sources, bone marrow and peripheral blood were analyzed using Seurat v4.1.1, and other tools in R. QC metrics were performed, data were normalized and scaled. Principal components that capture the variation of the data were determined. In clustering the cells, KNN graph was constructed and Louvain algorithm was applied to optimize the standard modularity function. Clusters were defined via differential expression of features. We identified 9 different cell types, with a particular cluster representing the stress erythroids. The clusters showed differentially expressed genes as observed from the gene signature plot. The stress erythroid cluster differentially expressed some genes including ALAS2, HEMGN, and GUK1. The erythroid population was found to be heterogeneous, with a distinct sub-cell type constituting the stress erythroids; this may have important implications for our knowledge of steady-state and stress erythropoiesis, and the markers found in this cluster may prove useful for future research into the dynamics of stress erythroid progenitor cell differentiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Modular integrated construction (MiC) reengineers the traditional construction process. By introducing factory production and onsite assembly (OA) of modules, MiC reinvents construction projects' uncertainties and risk profiles. The OA stage constitutes the highest end of the MiC delivery and supply chains, where several inherited and symbiotic errors and risk events become realities, negatively impacting the MiC project's success. This study explored the severities of OA risk factors for MiC projects. Design/methodology/approach: A comprehensive literature review, consultation of experts and a questionnaire survey of domain experts were conducted to assess the severity of fifteen OA risk factors for MiC projects. The risk severity index was used to compute and rank the severities of critical OA risk factors for MiC projects, followed by proposed mitigation strategies. Findings: The study revealed that the top five OA risk factors with the severest impact on MiC projects include modules installation discrepancies and errors, poor cooperation among critical onsite stakeholders, a mismatch between production schedules and site conditions, improper lifting equipment selection for onsite installation and site-fit rework due to discrepancies in drawings. Originality/value: This study is the first to offer some important insights into the uncertainties that could compromise the OA objectives of MiC projects. It discussed risk management strategies for known and unknown OA risks and made a unique contribution to the theory, practice, and praxis of MiC supply chain risk management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rabies virus (RABV) infection leads to a fatal neurological outcome in humans and animals and is associated with major alterations in cellular gene expression. In this study, we describe the effects of RABV infection on the mRNA expression levels of two genes, encoding the Ca2+-binding proteins (Ca-BPs) calbindin D-28K (Calb1) and calretinin (Calb2), in the brains of BALB/c mice. Sixty 4-week-old mice were divided into two test groups and one control group. Mice were inoculated intramuscularly with either a street rabies virus (SRV) strain or a challenge virus standard (CVS-11) strain and sacrificed at 3-day intervals up to day 18 postinfection. A direct fluorescent antibody test (DFAT) was used to verify the presence of RABV antigen in brain tissues, and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-PCR) was used to assess gene expression. Infection with both RABV strains resulted in significant (p < 0.05) increases in Calb1 and Calb2 expression in the test animals when compared with the controls at various time points in the study. Correlation analysis indicated very weak insignificant (p > 0.05) negative and positive relationships, respectively, between Calb1 expression (r = -0.04) and Calb2 expression (r = 0.08) with viral load (CVS-11 strain). Insignificant (p > 0.05) relationships were also observed Calb1 expression (r = -0.28) and Calb2 expression (r = 0.06) and viral load for the SRV strain. The observed alterations in Calb1 and Calb2 expression in this study indicate possible impairments in neuronal Ca2+ buffering and Ca2+ homeostasis as a result of RABV infection and, consequently, possible involvement of calbindin-D28K and calretinin in the neuropathogenesis of rabies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigation on organic xenobiotics bioaccumulation/biodegradation in green algae is of great importance from environmental point of view because widespread distribution of these compounds in agricultural areas has become one of the major problems in aquatic ecosystem. Temperature, light intensity, amount and type of nutrients, amount of CO2, and pH are the key factors influencing algal growth. Collections of Wastewater Samples were done according standard method. BG-11 media was prepared for culture of microalgae. Identification and isolation of microalgae was done according standard method and haemocytometer were used for microalgae cell counting. The results indicated that temperature and photoperiod affect the activities of microalgae; temperature at 25°C provide with 12:12h light/dark photoperiods show more significant with increases the number of days for both of the species as well as mixed culture, when compared with the treatments at temperature of 10°C provide with 6/18h light/dark photoperiods. Furthermore, Chlorogonium sp. and Chlorella sorokiniana showed more response during treatments in increase with the number of weeks when compared with Microcystis earuginosa and mixed culture of the species. Therefore, temperature and photoperiod impacts potentials of microalgae in the remediation of wastewater effluents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgae-based wastewater treatment systems (AWWTS) have recently shown promise in the mitigation of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) from municipal wastewater (MWW). However, due to the large number of ARGs that exist in MWW, the use of indirect conventional water quality parameters to monitor ARGs reduction in wastewater would make the process less burdensome and economically affordable. In order to establish a robust relationship between the ARGs and water quality parameters, the current study employed different microalgae strains in monoculture (CM2, KL10) and multi-species combinations (CK and WW) for the MWW treatment under outdoor environmental conditions. The studied genes were quantified in the MWW influents and effluents using real-time PCR. All the cultures substantially improved the physicochemical qualities of the MWW. Out of the 14 genes analyzed in this study, tetO, tetW, tetX and ermB were decreased beyond detection within the first 4 days of treatment in all the cultures. Other genes, including blaCTX, sul1, cmlA, aadA, int1 and uidA were also decreased beyond a 2 log reduction value (LRV). The mobile genetic element, int1, correlated positively with most of the ARGs, especially sul1 (r ≤ 0.99, p < 0.01) and aadA (r ≤ 0.97, p < 0.01). Similarly, the Escherichia coli indicator gene, uidA, correlated positively with the studied genes, especially with aadA, blaCTX, blaTEM and cmlA (r ≤ 0.99 for each, p < 0.01). Some of the studied genes also correlated positively with total dissolved solids (TDS) (r ≤ 0.98, p < 0.01), and/or negatively with total suspended solids (TSS) (r ≤ −0.98, p < 0.01) and pH (r ≤ −0.98, p < 0.01). Among the tested cultures, both monocultures, i.e., KL10 and CM2 were found to be more consistent in gene suppression than their multi-species counterparts. The findings revealed water quality parameters such as TDS, TSS and E. coli as reliable proxies for ARGs mitigation in AWWTS and further highlight the superiority of monocultures over multi-species cultures in terms of gene suppression from the MWW stream. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sewage disposal has become a major ecological problem in metropolitan areas and semiurban communities, with effluents from both residential and industrial activities discharged directly into water bodies, constituting a major cause of water pollution. Twelve mesocosms were set up, each receiving approximately 15 liters of water containing algae. Weekly sampling for physical chemical parameters, phytoplankton biomass, and biochemical components was done for four weeks. The results revealed that 41 species of phytoplankton were identified throughout the course of four weeks, and that pH remained around neutral levels, with increases in dissolved oxygen (DO) as the number of weeks increased. Furthermore, the physico-chemical indicators showed a decrease with an increase in the number of weeks (total dissolved solids, 70.50 %, nitrate 97.44 %, phosphorus 100%, ammonium 92.26%, potassium 91.35%, zinc 96.52%, manganese 98.63%, iron 92.90%, copper 97.56%, nickel 98.66%). While biological components such as fat, glucose, and protein had increased with number of days. These findings prove mesocosm as the optimum and cost-efficient method of wastewater treatment for enterprises before the release of effluents into water bodies that eventually join rivers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexes formed from the interaction of Fe(II), Co(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) with Schiff base derived from salicylaldehyde and valine have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of melting point/decomposition temperature, solubility, molar conductance, UV spectroscopy and infrared spectral analysis. The Schiff base melted at a temperature of 208oC while the synthesized metal (II) complexes decomposed at a temperature range of 220-241°C. All the complexes were found to be soluble in water and DMSO but insoluble in acetonitrile, ether and hexane. Octahedral geometry around these metal ions has been proposed on the basis of magnetic and spectral studies. The synthesized Schiff base as well as the complexes were tested against the bacterial strains comprising Staphylococcus aureus (Gram positive), Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Proteus mirabilis and Klebsiella pneumonia (Gram negative) and two fungal species; Aspergillus fumigatus and mucor species. A comparative study of inhibition values of the Schiff base and its complexes indicated that the complexes exhibited higher antimicrobial activity than the free ligand. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complexes of Fe(II), Co(II), Cu(II), and Zn(II) with a Schiff base derived from salicylaldehyde and isoleucine were successfully synthesized. All complexes were distinctly colored and were characterized by molar conductance, magnetic susceptibility, infrared and UV spectroscopy. Infrared spectroscopy shows the Schiff base ligand is coordinated to the central metal ion in a tridentate manner through the N-atom of the azomethine and two oxygen of the phenol and carboxylate. All complexes contain two ligands molecules per metal ion (ML2). An octahedral geometry is proposed for the metal complexes. Antimicrobial study of the complexes was undertaken against five pathogenic bacteria strains and two fungi, mucus species and Aspergillus fumigates. The result reveal that most of the complexes and particularly Co (II) and Zn (II) have a much enhanced activity against Staphyllococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preparation of Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr) (Convolvulaceae) is widely used in traditional African medicine for the treatments of different kinds of ailments such as syphilis, malaria, convulsions and rheumatism. Aim: The anticonvulsant properties of fractions of leaf of Ipomoea asarifolia (Desr); n-butanol (BF), chloroform, n-hexane and residual aqueous fractions (RAF) were evaluated on animals. Results: The RAF at dose of 75 mg/kg (P < 0.01) with 33% quantal protection and 83% protection against mortality is the most active fraction when compared with BF at 300 mg/kg (P < 0.01) with no quantal protection and 83% protection against mortality; the anti-seizure activity could be because of the presence of saponins (23.3%) and flavonoids (43.92%). The RAF may also owes its anticonvulsant activity via GABAergic pathway as flumazenil at 2 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) blocked the activity of RAF, via glutamatergic pathway with RAF (P < 0.05) significantly reversing the proconvulsive activity of ketamine at 200 mg/kg as compared to ketamine alone. Opioidergic pathway may also be implicated as naloxone 1 mg/kg significantly (P < 0.05) reduced the anticonvulsant effect of RAF. Conclusions: BF and RAF of leaf of Ipomoea asarifolia have shown anticonvulsants activities in PTZ-induced seizures. RAF was observed to be the most active fraction of Ipomoea asarifolia extract which probably exerts its action through GABAergic, glutamatergic and opioidergic pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microalgal biomass provides a renewable source of biofuels and other green products. However, in order to realize economically viable microalgal biorefinery, strategic identification and utilization of suitable microalgal feedstock is fundamental. Here, a multi-step suboptimal screening strategy was used to target promising microalgae strains from selected freshwaters of the study area. The resulting strains were found to be affiliated to seven closely-related genera of the family Scenedesmaceae, as revealed by both morphologic and molecular characterization. Following initial screening under upper psychrophilic to optimum mesophilic (irregular temperature of 14.1 to 35.9°C) cultivation conditions, superior strains were chosen for further studies. Further cultivation of the selected strains under moderate to extreme mesophilic cultivation conditions (irregular temperature of 25.7 to 42.2°C), yielded up to 74.12 mgL-1day-1, 19.96 mgL-1day-1, 48.56%, 3.34 μg/mL and 1.20 μg/mL, for biomass productivity, lipid productivity, carbohydrate content, pigments content and carotenoids content respectively. These performances were deemed promising compared with some previous, optimum conditions-based reports. Interestingly, the fatty acids profile and the high carotenoids content of the studied strains revealed possible tolerance to the stress caused by the changing suboptimal cultivation conditions. Overall, strains AY1, CM6, LY2 and KL10 were exceptional and may present sustainable, promising feedstock for utilization in large-scale generation of green products, including biodiesel, bioethanol, pigments and dietary supplements. The findings of this study, which exposed promising, eurythermal strains, would expand the current knowledge on the search for promising microalgae strains capable of performing under the largely uncontrolled large-scale cultivation settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Water plays a vital role in daily metabolic life processes. However, promoting public health awareness as well as provision of safe and secured bottled drinking water by stakeholders cannot be over emphasized. The study is aimed at evaluating the biological quality of some bottled water sold within Kano Metropolis, Nigeria. Studies on physical and biological parametric standard method were conducted. A total of 40 samples comprising of 4 different brands was randomly selected using stratified sampling techniques from different sampling sites within Kano metropolis in Northern Nigeria. Physical observation of bottled water labeling characteristics was evaluated. Water sample was pressurized to deflate the bio films along the walls of the container.10-20ml of the sample was pipette into centrifuge bottles corresponding to the label of each sample brand. It was centrifuged at a rotor speed of 1,500 revolutions per minute (rpm) for 30 minutes for biological evaluation. Algal cells were identified and enumerated. Results showed that none of the samples met the physical full content labeling characteristic standard. 10 Species of algal cell/ml was detected in some bottled water brands with Flagillaria spp. being the abundance in brand A and Ankistrodesmus spp. being the least in brand B. However, none was detected in sample D. It is recommended that, effective implementation of WHO water safety guidelines from the catchment source to the consumer through campaign awareness can reduce level of exposure. Stake holders should be encouraged to protect and store bottle water against sunlight exposure, chemicals and cleaning reagents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural communities in Nigeria suffer a great deal of parasitic infections. The effect is severe on children. Parasitic infections affect the health of schoolchildren by causing malnutrition, anaemia, reduced cognitive ability and poor performance in school. This study was aimed at assessing the prevalence of hookworm infections, associated risk factors and their effects on anthropometric indices of schoolchildren in Samaru, Zaria. Children across public and private schools were enlightened about the disease. Fresh morning faecal samples were collected from each of 203 consented pupils. The samples were examined for hookworm eggs by formol-ether concentration technique. Prevalence of hookworms was 4.9%. Children in four out of seven schools were found with hookworm infections (P=0.000). Children from public schools were significantly more infected with hookworms (7.9%, P=0.050) than those in the private schools. Male schoolchildren had higher hookworm infections (5.8%) than the females (4.7%, P>0.05). The youngest children of age 6-7 years old were the most infected (9.1%); followed by those of 10- 11 years old who had 5.8% infections. Children who walked barefooted (6.5%), consumed raw vegetables (5.1%) or engaged in farming (5.3%) were more infected with hookworms than those who did not, but the relationship was not significant (P>0.00). Only fever (3.0%) was found among infected children (P=0.582), other symptoms did not occur among those infected with the hookworms. Children with weight of 39-48kg had the highest infection of 8.0%. Weight, height and BMI were not statistically associated with hookworm infections among the children. However, most of the children (87.2%) had underweight BMI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extant research studies have attempted to evaluate the building information modeling (BIM) divide in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry; however, these studies are often premised on material access or a technology-centric perspective. Consequently, this study examines the BIM divide from a multifaceted perspective and evaluates its contextuality via firmographic variables. It mobilizes the digital divide model from the information technology discipline. The contextualized model depicts the BIM divide through four categories of motivational, physical, skills, and usage access. The model was empirically tested through the generalized structured component analysis (GSCA) with data from an international questionnaire survey. The findings underscore the need to rethink BIM adoption as a multifaceted and dynamic process against the extant static two-tiered representation. It highlights a notable BIM divide between firms in developed and developing economies. The findings necessitate further scrutiny of the effect of firms' sizes and ages on BIM adoption and the unavoidable Mathew effect of the BIM divide. Lastly, it provides paths in driving BIM implementation for stakeholders and policymakers and highlights the need to be context conscious in advocating for the transferability of global best practices in BIM adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the heightened imperatives for supply chain resilience (SCR) in industrialized construction (IC) in Hong Kong, this study modeled the dynamic impact of supply chain vulnerabilities (SCVs) and supply chain capabilities (SCCs) on IC supply chains. The data collected through expert surveys, interviews, and case studies were analyzed using social network analysis (SNA) and system dynamics modeling (SDM) to develop the research models. Onsite assembly was identified as the most vulnerable supply chain phase, and anticipation as the most influential capability. Further, the use of an interoperable smart software package and other suggested strategies were shown to enhance IC's resilient capabilities. As key practical contributions, these findings provide evidence-based insights for adopting well-focused performance-enhancing measures to achieve SCR in IC. Moreover, this is the first initiative to explore the potential applications of SDM and SNA to assess IC supply chain dynamics, targeting a goal of enhanced resilience. This study, therefore, contributes substantially to the IC and SCR knowledge domains. Findings should also motivate and provide insights for scholars pursuing similar industry-specific improvements in other jurisdictions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Despite the SMEs representing a large percentage of firms in the construction industry, there has been an under-representation of SMEs' perspective in BIM research studies. This paper aims to systematically review the few extant studies with a view of synthesizing the findings. Design/methodology/approach: Hermeneutic philosophy using the interpretivist epistemology approach with a touch of metasynthesis was adopted to critically review and analyse extant studies published over the last decade. Findings: The findings revealed a scarcity of BIM studies in SMEs, the status of adoption, identified barriers, benefits and drivers. A conceptual model was then developed based on the literature review and theoretical lenses of innovation diffusion model, technology–organization–environment framework and institutional theory. The paper presents pertinent propositions to drive BIM in the SMEs. Originality/value: This paper holistically reviews extant BIM studies from the perspective of SMEs that are the backbone of the construction industry. It synthesizes extant studies and sets scenes for further studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytochemical and antimicrobial activity of methanol extract of Albizia ferruginea (Guill and Perr) which belongs to the family of Fabaceae were studied. Phytochemical studies on the plant leaves showed that they contained alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, saponins, cardiac glycoside and carbohydrate. Methanol extract of Albizia ferruginea showed growth inhibitory effects of varying degrees on S. feacalis, S. typhi, S. paratyphi, Shigella dysentriae and Klebsiella pneumonia but was not active on Streptococcus pyogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the extract was determined for the organisms whose growths were inhibited. The extract had MIC of 3.25mg/ml for S. feacalis, S. paratyphi, S. dysentriae and K. pneumoniae respectively. The antimicrobial studies of the extracts really justify the numerous folkloric uses of the plant parts in the treatment of some common ailments such as diarrhea, dysentery, fever, cough, pain and skin infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

PURPOSE: This study aimed to identify the needs and priorities of parents of children with cerebral palsy (CP) in order to improve care by increasing family participation in rehabilitation programmes. METHODS: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted between January to March 2019. Convenience sampling was used to recruit 43 family members (18 years and above) of children with CP who came to the physiotherapy departments for rehabilitation services for their children. Fisher's exact test was used to analyse the association between socio-demographic characteristics and each of the need items. RESULTS: Five different items were identified to be the family needs that were most frequently met: a) 'need for active involvement in the child's treatment and therapies' (n = 40; 93.0%), b) 'need for the provision of standard medical care (n = 39; 90.7%), c) 'need for questions to be answered honestly' (n = 38; 88.4%), d) 'need for healthcare professionals to respect the child's wishes' (n = 36; 83.7%), e) 'need for mothers to discuss their feelings (depression, stress etc.) with someone who has similar experience' (n = 36; 83.7%). Conversely, three items were the most unmet family needs: a) 'need to have professionals to consult whenever the child needs help' (n = 39; 90.7%), b) 'need to be informed about the child's prognosis' (n = 41; 95.3%), and c) 'need to have financial support to provide the child with adequate care' (n = 43; 100%). CONCLUSION: All participants overwhelmingly reported that their financial needs were their highest priority. The multiple needs of families of children with disabilities must be assessed and considered in rehabilitation services when treating children with CP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: This study aims to evaluate and investigate the dynamics of the barriers to building information modelling (BIM) adoption from the perspective of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing countries with the Nigerian construction industry as a case study. Design/methodology/approach: An interpretive structural modelling approach was adopted to develop a hierarchical model of the interrelationships of the barriers. Also, the Matrice d'Impacts croises-multipication applique a classement analysis was used for categorisation of the barriers. Findings: The findings revealed that the barriers are from a sociotechnical context and that SMEs have the will to drive BIM adoption by focussing more on their internal environment. Originality/value: This study presented the adoption of BIM in SMEs, which is underrepresented in extant studies. Also, it contributes to the nascent discussion of BIM from the perspective of SMEs in developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tuberculosis (TB) is known to be one of the oldest forms of human diseases which still remain the leading cause of death worldwide. It is characterized as a pulmonary disease which occurs due to accumulation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) onto the lungs alveolar surfaces. M. tuberculosis is an implicated pathogenic bacteria associated with T.B. It is the chronic infectious disease caused by the tubercle bacillus (M. tuberculosis). This study was aimed to determine co-infection of other pathogenic bacteria within MTB patients attending Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Katsina. The study design was crosssectional, conducted to isolate some pathogenic bacteria that co-infected TB patients who are Acid fast bacilli (AFB) positive and AFB negative. The samples obtained were cultured on Blood, Chocolate and MacConkey agar and incubated at 37oC for 24 hours. Pure isolates were confirmed using Grams Staining and biochemical reaction. Data obtained were presented as simple percentage and using statistical analysis which revealed that the incidence was common among the age categories 51-60 with 28%, followed by those >60 years with 20°%. The lowest prevalence was recorded the at age category 11-20 with 10%. Based on gender, males presented with the higher incidence (35/50) i.e. 70% than female (15/50) i.e. 30%. Klebsiella pneumoniae, Staphyllococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa were the most prevalent organisms isolated with 21.9%, 19.66% and 19.10% respectively. E. coli with 05.62% being had the least isolates. The research demonstrated the existence of both Gram positive and Gram negative bacterial pathogens that co-infect with TB patients, especially among the elderly males. Further research should be tailored towards investigating other pathogens that co-infect with MTB patients, such as fungi and viruses, in diversified hospitals in Katsina state and beyond. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study determined the effect of Neem Leaf Meal (NLM) based - diets on growth response, haematological and serum biochemical indices of female rabbits (does). Twenty four (24) weaned rabbits (5 - 6 weeks old with average body weight of 600 ±1.05g) were used. The NLM was included in the diets at 0, 5, 10, and 15% levels as treatments TI, T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The rabbits were divided into four groups of six (6) each and randomly assigned to experimental diets using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Water was provided ad libitum and the rabbits were housed in disinfected wooden hutches for 56 days. Data on growth response, haematological and serum biochemical indices were collected and analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results revealed that the growth performance parameters showed significant (P<0.05) differences between dietary treatments with progressive decrease in values as the levels of NLM inclusion increased across the diets. The final weight gain ranged between 860 and 970 g/rabbit. The total weight gain was between 310 and 380 g/rabbit, total feed intake ranged between 2150 and 2221 g/rabbit while FCR ranged between 5.84 and 6.94. Growth parameters beyond 10% inclusion level were least compared with values in the control diet. The haematological indices showed that all parameters were significantly (P<0.05) affected by dietary treatments and within the normal ranges for apparently healthy rabbits. The serum biochemical indices were within normal ranges but not significantly affected (P>0.05) by dietary treatments. The study concluded that 10% NLM can be included in the diets meant for rabbits without fear of compromising growth performance and blood characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bottled water like any drinking water used for human consumption should be safe and of standard quality to ensure adequate public health significance. This study is aimed at assessing the physicochemical quality of some bottle water sold in Kano Metropolis. Studies on physicochemical parametric analysis were conducted. A total of 40 samples comprising of 4 different brands were randomly selected from different location. Physicochemical parameters of water samples such as Temperature, pH, Electrical conductivity, Total dissolved solids, turbidity, Magnesium, Calcium, Lead, Copper, Zinc, Bicarbonate, Chloride, Nitrate and Phosphate were analyzed using standard methods of water analysis. The Results of physicochemical parameters were within the drinking water regulatory standard. However, zinc, lead and copper was found to exceed the bottle drinking water standard in the ranges of 3.91 - 6.17Mg/l, 0. 29 - 0. 47Mg/l and 1.54 - 2. 67Mg/l respectively; thereby rendering the water unfit to human consumption. There is the need to embark on routine monitoring and surveillances by the regulatory agencies involved to ensure effective implementation of WHO water safety plans from the catchment source to the consumer. This could be enhanced by replacing old pipes with new ones Bottled water industries should be designated away from heavy metal industries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at determining the possible exposure of wild birds to avian influenza (AI), infectious bronchitis (IB) and Newcastle disease (ND) viruses. Apparently healthy species of free flying wild birds were captured using locally-made baited traps set at strategic watering and feeding locations and in poultry farms. Few species of captive wild birds in households and live bird markets (LBMs) were also sampled. Sera from blood samples collected were analyzed for antibodies to AI, IB and ND viruses using enzyme linked immunorsorbent assay (ELISA). Out of the 209 sera analysed, Bubulcus ibis was 24%, 70% and 27% while Psittacus erithacus was 7%, 21% and 7% positive for antibodies to AI, IB and ND viruses, respectively. Branta canadensis, was 35% and 64% positive for antibodies to AI and IB viruses. Balearica regulorum and Numidia maleagris were 100% and 9% positive to AI virus antibodies. Free flying birds were 19 (15%), 57 (45%) and 27 (21%) positive while captive wild birds were 11%, 20% and 14% positive to AI, IB and ND viruses antibodies, respectively. The results of this study confirm that wild birds were exposed to AI, IB and ND viruses. There was co-exposure of some wild bird species to AI, IB and ND viruses. These birds could possibly serve as carriers and disseminators of AI, IB and ND to poultry. Therefore, control measures against these important poultry diseases should include incursion of wild birds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was conducted to determine the presence of fungi in C. gariepinus harvested from selected farms and dams in Zaria and its environs. A total of 360 randomly sampled Clarias gariepinus (African mudfish) and 144 fish holding water samples were collected from three dams (wild captured) and three fish farms (cultured). They were screened for fungi using Sabouraud Dextrose Agar as isolation medium. Identification of the fungi was done by macroscopic observation of the growth morphology followed by microscopy after staining with lactophenol cotton blue. Four fungal genera namely; Mucor (12.50%), Aspergillus (18.06%), Tricophyton (5.56%) and Penicillium spp. (4.17%) were isolated from water samples. Similar fungi were also isolated from the fish skin swabs in the following order; Mucor spp. (49.57%), Aspergillus sp.(31.30%), Trichophyton sp.(10.43%) and Penicillium sp.(8.0%). Finding these fungi in the fish holding water might have occurred through the use of contaminated and/or decomposed feed, from runoffs, waste water discharges from nearby human settlements into the aquatic environment. The infection of fish by the isolated fungi diminishes both the aesthetic and economic value of fish. Attention must therefore be paid to fish hygiene and fish health management practices must be upheld. We hereby recommend that fish meant for human consumption be properly exposed to temperature high enough to eliminate contaminating fungi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of zooplankton as bioindicators of water quality in Jakara Dam was carried out for a period of 12 months (March, 2013-February 2014). Zooplankton and water samples were collected and analyzed using standard methods. Sampling sites designated as A, B,C,D, and E were chosen. Result of physico-chemical parameters analysed showed that temperature, secchi disk transparency, pH and electrical conductivity ranged between 25.3-23.9, 10.7-57.9 cm, 7.9-7.7 and 856.7- 817.9 μS/cm respectively, so also dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate and phosphate ranged between 4.5-3.3 mg/l, 2.5-1.7 mg/l, 23.8-14.3 mg/l, and 15.8-12.5mg/l respectively. Among the zooplankton, Rotifers were the dominant, contributing 27.10% of the total fauna composition. Cladocerans constituted 26.99%, Cyclopoida 16.15%, Calanoida 15.08%, and Protozoans 14.68%. However, a combined total of 36 zooplankton species were encountered, Rotifers had 10, Cladocerans 10, Cyclopoida 6, Protozoans 6, and Calanoida 4. The total fauna composition recorded was 2606.58 Org/l with the highest zooplankton density recorded at site D (631.64 Org/l) and lowest at site A (384.31 Org/l). Bosmina longirostris had the highest total species count of 250.88 Org/l while Afrocyclops monodi had 7.02 Org/l. Rotifers are signs of deteriorating condition of the water quality. Pearson's correlation existed between zooplankton, nitrate, phosphate and electrical conductivity at P<0.01. During the period of this study, site A had low secchi disk transparency, high level of nitrate and phosphate. This is due to human activities taking place at the site. In a bid to providing safe water for domestic and industrial uses, water treatment plant should be provided to help in water treatment especially at site A (Bela community) of this research area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study on phytoplankton as bioindicators of water quality in Jakara Dam was carried out for a period of 12 months (March, 2013-February 2014). Phytoplankton and water samples were collected and analyzed using standard methods. Sampling sites designated as A, B, C, D, and E were chosen. Physico-chemical parameters showed temperature, secchi disk transparency, pH, and electrical conductivity ranged between 25.3-23.9, 10.7-57.9 cm, 7.9-7.7 and 856.7- 817.9μs/cm respectively, so also dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, nitrate and phosphate ranged between 4.5-3.3 mg/l, 2.5-1.7 mg/l, 23.8-14.3 mg/l, and 15.8-12.5mg/l respectively. Cyanophyceae were the most dominant contributing 56.8% of the total flora composition, followed by Bacillariophyceae (23.2%) and Chlorophyceae (23.0%). A combined total of 23 species of phytoplankton were encountered. Cyanophyceae 9, Bacillariophyceae 7 and Chlorophyceae 7. The total flora count obtained was 3255.93 Org/l. The highest phytoplankton density was recorded at site D (870.18 Org/l) and lowest at site A (454.39 Org/l). Oscillatoria spp. had the highest total species count (1131.58) org/l while Anthophysa vegetans had the lowest (10.53 Org/l). High percentages of organic pollution indicators Oscillatoria spp and Microcystis aerogenosa were signs of deteriorating condition of the water quality. Shannon - Weiner's and Evenness Indices values were higher in the months of wet season than in dry season, while the Simpson's Index values were low. The total flora counts were higher in dry season. In the wet season, Pearson's Coefficient analysis showed that there was positive relationship between temperature and nitrate and BOD at P< 0.05. Likewise between DO and phytoplankton, BOD and nitrate and phosphate at P< 0.01. During the period of this study, site A had low secchi disk transparency, high level of nitrate and phosphate. This is due to human activities taking place at the site. Shannon - Weiner's Index value indicated that the site is more polluted. Government and stakeholders should strengthen their legislation against indiscriminate and improper waste disposal along water-ways, dams inclusive. This will ease inflow and check contamination to a large extent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of sodium arsenite and Acacia honey on acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and electrolytes in the brain and serum of Wistar rats. Male Wistar albino rats in four groups of five rats each were treated with distilled water, sodium arsenite (5 mg/kg body weight), Acacia honey (20% v/v), and sodium arsenite and Acacia honey, daily for one week. The sodium arsenite and Acacia honey significantly P<0.05 decreased AChE activity in the brain with the combined treatment being more potent. Furthermore, sodium arsenite and Acacia honey significantly P<0.05 decreased AChE activity in the serum. Strong correlation was observed between the sodium and calcium ion levels with acetylcholinesterase activity in the brain and serum. The gas chromatography mass spectrometry analysis of Acacia honey revealed the presence of a number of bioactive compounds such as phenolics, sugar derivatives, and fatty acids. These findings suggest that sodium arsenite and/or Acacia honey modulates acetylcholinesterase activities which may be explored in the management of Alzheimer’s diseases but this might be counteracted by the hepatotoxicity induced by arsenics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide and its development is frequently associated with oxidative stress-induced by carcinogens such as arsenicals. Most foods are basically health-promoting or disease-preventing and a typical example of such type is honey. This study was undertaken to investigate the ameliorative effects of Acacia honey on sodium arsenite-induced oxidative stress in the heart, lung and kidney tissues of male Wistar rats. Male Wistar albino rats divided into four groups of five rats each were administered distilled water, Acacia honey (20%), sodium arsenite (5mg/kg body weight), Acacia honey, and sodium arsenite daily for one week. They were sacrificed anesthetically using 60mg/kg sodium pentothal. The tissues were used for the assessment of glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities, protein content and lipid peroxidation. Sodium arsenite significantly (P < 0.05) suppressed the glutathione peroxidase, catalase, superoxide dismutase activities with simultaneous induction of lipid peroxidation. Administration of Acacia honey significantly increased (P < 0.05) glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase activities with concomitant suppression of lipid peroxidation as evident by the decrease in malondialdehyde level. From the results obtained, Acacia honey mitigates sodium arsenite induced-oxidative stress in male Wistar albino rats, which suggest that it may attenuate oxidative stress implicated in chemical carcinogenesis [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) which are the backbone of any economy are often on the disadvantaged side of the digital divide in the construction industry. With the advent of building information modelling (BIM), the SMEs are facing challenges and are slow with its uptake. Hitherto, extant research studies on BIM have focused primarily on the large firms and there is an observed trend of underrepresentation of the SMEs in BIM studies. Thus, this paper aims to investigate the major drivers of sustainable adoption of Building Information Modelling in SMEs and the dynamics of these drivers in developing countries using interpretive structural modelling approach and Matrice d'Impacts croises-multipication applique a classement (MICMAC) analysis. The findings reveal that organizational readiness is of utmost importance for the proliferation of BIM in SMEs. Also, the independent drivers which are the most important drivers consist of BIM characteristics, internal and external environment drivers and thus portray the BIM adoption as a complex socio-technical system. This study categorizes the drivers for easy intervention of SMEs' managers and policymakers. It contributes to the nascent studies of BIM adoption in SMEs of developing countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of temperature on the size and development times of three benthic cyclopoid copepods, Acanthocyclops viridis, A. vernalis and Macrocyclops albidus were investigated within the normal environmental temperature range (5°C-20°C). Adult weight decreased as temperature increased. All three species complete their development at 5°C and development times at all temperatures are presented as curvilinear logarithmic temperature functions. The duration of development decreases as temperature rises. The results are compared with those reported else-where for benthic and planktonic species and the ecological implications are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Building Information Modelling (BIM) has been gaining widespread adoption in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) industry across the globe. Consequently, several research studies have attempted to construct a holistic review of the increasing BIM publications to identify the development trend using manual review, scientometric review, bibliometric review, or latent semantic review. These extant studies have often adopted a global view of the development despite the adoption of BIM varying across firms, countries, and continents. This approach is often regarded as not representative of the BIM development in countries and continents at the infancy stage. As BIM is still at the germinating stage of development in Africa and previous reviews are unrepresentative of BIM development in the AEC industry of Africa. This paper aims to present a scientometric review and metasynthesis of BIM development in the African AEC industry to explore the intellectual evolution of BIM, the status quo of BIM across the regions, and any potential barriers hindering BIM proliferation. The review findings revealed a varying level of BIM growth, with North Africa, West Africa, and Southern Africa leading the research development, whilst East Africa and Central Africa are slightly lagging behind. Additionally, the major challenges facing BIM adoption was found as people/process-related barriers. This study has provided valuable insights into BIM development and application in the growing African AEC industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]