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Objective: To examine multidrug resistant (MDR) Salmonella (S.) Typhi isolates obtained from the stool samples of patients attending secondary health centers in Southern Benue, Nigeria, for extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) production and conjugative ability. Methods: The double disc synergy test was used to screen for ESBL production in MDR isolates. The ability of S. Typhi to transfer resistance gene was determined by conjugation experiments using standard protocols, with slight modifications. Escherichia (E.) coli ATCC 25922 was used as the recipient organism. Result: The donor S. Typhi isolates showed resistance to all the classes of antibiotics except aminoglycosides and carbapenems. All isolates except TKP 106, APA 55, APA 78 and OGB 106 were positive for ESBL production. Reduction in the zones of inhibition of E. coli after incubation with S. Typhi showed evidence of conjugation and transfer of antibiotic resistance from S. Typhi to E. coli. Conclusions: The presence of ESBL-producing S. Typhi capable of conjugation poses a significant risk to the treatment and management of typhoid fever, which highlights the need for the regulation of antibiotic use through relevant policies and strategies that aim at halting the spread of MDR and ESBL-producing S. Typhi in such rural settings.

The lipid-rich Seed of Moringa oleifera has been promoted as an effective water clarifier. Aside its vital nutritional application as an emerging food additive, the seed has continued to gain a wider acceptance in various global ethnomedicines for managing several communicable and lifestyle diseases, howbeit, its potential toxic effect, particularly on fertility and pregnancy outcomes has remained uninvestigated; the effect of Moringa oleifera seed (MOSE) aqueous-methanol extracts on fertility and pregnancy outcome, was investigated in vivo using female Wistar rats that were divided into 50, 100, 300 and 500 mg per kilogram body weight. Group six was given Moringa oleifera seed treated water ad-libitum (ad-libitum group). Organs harvested for histological assessment included ovary, uterus, liver and kidney. In addition to HPLC fingerprint and a preliminary peptide detection, we determined the physico-chemical characteristics and mineral content of MOSE using standard methods. Data were analyzed with significance at p ≤ 0.05. There was no significant difference in the estrus cycle, mating index, gestation survival index, gestation index, fertility index and sex ratio among all groups. Gestation length was reduced in some groups. While the male pup birth weight was comparable among the different groups, female pups birth weights were significantly reduced in 50 and 100 mg groups. Anogenital distance indices of female pups in ad libitum group were significantly increased. Pathologies were observed in liver and kidneys of dams while kidneys of pups presented a dose dependent reduction in the number of glomeruli. There were no observed pathological changes in the ovary and uterus. This study showed for the first time in rodents, that the lipid-rich MOSE is unsafe to the kidney of rodents while the lipid-free MOSE appears to be safe at doses up to 300 mg/kg body weight. Findings from this study suggested that the female pups were masculinized. In conclusion, the lipid-rich seed extracts of MOSE appear to be unsafe during pregnancy, induce hepatic and renal toxicity while the lipid-free MOSE excludes inherent toxicity as the hydrophobic part has been linked to toxicity as observed in this study due to the developmental programming effect on female offspring in rodents.

Climate change is projected to negatively affect water security which is already a challenge in many areas of Ghana including the Tano river basin (TRB). This study assessed the projections of rainfall and temperature and its impact on streamflow and actual evapotranspiration (ET) in the TRB of Ghana for 2021-2050 relative to the period 1986-2015. The impact assessment focused on how climate change under Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP 4.5 and RCP8.5) based on an ensemble mean of two regional climate models (RCMs) would affect streamflow and ET using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model. Trend analysis and quantification for the streamflow and ET were analyzed using the Mann-Kendall's and Sen's slope estimators. The results show that the mean annual rainfall of 1401.9 mm would increase slightly by 0.5 % with a decreasing trend (1.22mm/yr) under the RCP4.5 scenario, but would decrease by 3.2% with a decreasing trend (0.3m mm/yr) under the RCP8.5 scenario. The mean annual temperature showed an increase (2.1 °C and 2.6 °C) with a statistically significant increasing trend of 0.07 and 0.09 °C/yr under RCP 4.5 and RCP8.5 respectively. An increase in ET with a non-significant increasing trend at a rate of 0.74 and 1.07 mm/year under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios respectively is also projected. The mean annual streamflow is projected to decrease, with the decrease been more pronounced under the RCP8.5 (37.5%) scenario compared to the RCP4.5 scenario (19.9%). In general, the outcome of this study presents a useful perspective on the vulnerability of water resources to climate change and the need for better planning and management of the water resources in the basin.

BackgroundOnchocerciasis ("river blindness"), is a neglected tropical disease caused by the filarial nematode Onchocerca volvulus and transmitted to humans through repeated bites by infective blackflies of the genus Simulium. Moxidectin was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration in 2018 for the treatment of onchocerciasis in people at least 12 years of age. The pharmacokinetics of orally administered moxidectin in 18- to 60-year-old men and women infected with Onchocerca volvulus were investigated in a single-center, ivermectin-controlled, double-blind, randomized, single-ascending-dose, ascending severity of infection study in Ghana.Methodology/principal findingsParticipants were randomized to either a single dose of 2, 4 or 8 mg moxidectin or ivermectin. Pharmacokinetic samples were collected prior to dosing and at intervals up to 12 months post-dose from 33 and 34 individuals treated with 2 and 4 mg moxidectin, respectively and up to 18 months post-dose from 31 individuals treated with 8 mg moxidectin. Moxidectin plasma concentrations were determined using high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. Moxidectin plasma AUC0-∞ (2 mg: 26.7-31.7 days*ng/mL, 4 mg: 39.1-60.0 days*ng/mL, 8 mg: 99.5-129.0 days*ng/mL) and Cmax (2mg, 16.2 to17.3 ng/mL, 4 mg: 33.4 to 35.0 ng/mL, 8 mg: 55.7 to 74.4 ng/mL) were dose-proportional and independent of severity of infection. Maximum plasma concentrations were achieved 4 hours after drug administration. The mean terminal half-lives of moxidectin were 20.6, 17.7, and 23.3 days at the 2, 4 and 8 mg dose levels, respectively.Conclusion/significanceWe found no relationship between severity of infection (mild, moderate or severe) and exposure parameters (AUC0-∞ and Cmax), T1/2 and Tmax for moxidectin. Tmax, volume of distribution (V/F) and oral clearance (CL/F) are similar to those in healthy volunteers from Europe. From a pharmacokinetic perspective, moxidectin is an attractive long-acting therapeutic option for the treatment of human onchocerciasis.

Placenta percreta is quite an uncommon and potentially dangerous condition in pregnancy, which could lead to morbidity and mortality. It can adhere or invade the structure(s) adjacent to the uterus including the urinary bladder, rectum, and small intestine. The invasion of bladder is common but that of small bowel is extremely rare. This report presents a case of placenta percreta with small bowel attachment and spontaneous uterine rupture at 35 weeks gestation in a pregnancy conceived through invitro fertilization with history of previous myomectomy which was managed without intestinal resection.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a contagious disease and its transmissibility is increased in congregate settings. TB incidence rates are five-to-fifty times higher among inmates in prison settings than the general population which has a direct impact on the outcome of TB treatment. There is paucity of information on TB treatment outcomes and its associated factors in Nigerian prison settings. We therefore assessed TB treatment outcomes among inmates in prison settings in Bauchi State, Nigeria. We conducted a retrospective data analysis of inmates with TB in the five-main prison settings in Bauchi State. We extracted socio-demographic, clinical and treatment outcome characteristics from TB treatment register of inmates treated for TB between January 2014 and December 2018, using a checklist. We calculated the TB treatment success rate (TSR) and explored the relationship between the TSR and socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Related variables were modelled in multiple logistic regression to identify factors associated with TSR at 5% level of significance. All 216 inmates were male with mean (SD) age of 37.6±11.4 years. Seventy-six (35.2%) were cured, 61 (28.2%) completed treatment, 65 (30.1%) were transferred-out without evaluation and 14 (6.5%) died. Overall TSR was 72.9%. Factors associated with successful-treatment-outcome were age, weight, imprisonment duration and HIV status. The results indicate that inmates who are 20-29 years are at least ten times more likely to be successful (aOR = 10.5; 95%CI: 3.2-35.1) than inmates who are 55 years or older. Inmates who are 30-39 years are about four times more likely to be successful than inmates who are 55 years or older (aOR = 4.2; 95% CI: 1.3-13.1). In general, the younger an inmate, the more successful he is. Inmates with pretreatment-weight; 55kg or more are 13 times more likely to be successful (aOR = 13.3; 95%CI: 6.0-29.6) than inmates with weight below 55kg. Inmates who were imprisoned for 2 years or less are about three times more likely to be successful (aOR = 2.6; 95%CI: 1.3-5.4) than inmates who were imprisoned for more than 2 years and HIV negative inmates were three times more likely to succeed (aOR = 3.3; 95%CI:1.4-7.8) than inmates who were HIV positive. We recommended that to improve TB treatment outcome among inmates; age, duration-of-imprisonment, weight and TB/HIV co-infection should be the major consideration during pretreatment, psychological and nutritional counselling and a tracking-system be developed by the authority to follow-up inmates transferred-out to other health facilities to ensure they complete the treatment and outcomes evaluated.

Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of community acquired bacteremia and infective endocarditis. S. aureus is a part of the normal skin flora in approximately one third of the human population. Infective endocarditis due to S. aureus can cause several complications and is associated with increased mortality.A 48-year-old female with no significant medical history presented with S. aureus bacteremia and native mitral valve endocarditis. Multiple cutaneous skin lesions were identified, which she reported were due to recent bed bug bites. No source of infection was found except for the skin lesions. Her hospital course was complicated by pulmonary and cerebral septic emboli, left pleural empyema, and acute renal injury. We suspected the bed bug skin bites were the most likely source of bacteremia. Bed bugs carry many human pathogens but have not been shown to be a competent vector. We did not find any literature on endocarditis associated with bed bug bites; thus, our case will be a novel finding.

Oil pollution causes deterioration of the physical, chemical, mechanical, and geotechnical characteristics of affected soil leading to loss of soil productivity for engineering purposes. Different stabilization methods serve as a remedy for such soil to regain its loss engineering properties. This study was concerned with the utilization of lime to stabilize crude oil contaminated soil and to investigate its efficacy for soil stabilization. The study also focused on determining the geotechnical properties of crude oil contamination and matching the result with standard specifications established for engineering works. Hydrated lime, expansive clayey soil, contaminated soil, and potable water were the materials used for the experimental investigation. The contaminated soil was treated with 6.5% lime and 0–20% crude oil contaminated materials obtained from oil exploration sites in North-Eastern Nigeria and per standard test method for laboratory evaluation of consistency limits, compaction properties, California bearing ratio (CBR), and microstructural and mineralogical assessments. The experimental results obtained were further tested statistically through one-way ANOVA and F-statistics to establish the source of variation for the geotechnical properties, while multiple linear regression and correlation statistics helped draw the connection between the consistency limits, compaction, and CBR properties of the soil-lime-COCM blend. Results indicated a coefficient of determination of 99.86. The contaminated soil materials were found to show optimal performance at a 5% ratio and 6.5% of lime for civil construction purposes.

Abstract Background Progress made in the control of malaria vectors globally is largely due to the use of insecticides. However, success in the fight against malaria has slowed down or even stalled due to a host of factors including insecticide resistance. The greatest burden of the disease is felt in Africa, particularly Nigeria. Unfortunately, adequate information on insecticide resistance is lacking in many parts of the country, particularly the South-East Zone. Hence, this study aims to bridge the information gap in the Zone. Methods The study was conducted from April to December 2016. Anopheles gambiae (s.l.) larvae and pupae were collected from one community each, in the five states of the South-East Zone and reared to the adult stage. The adults were subjected to bioassays for insecticide resistance in accordance with the World Health Organization test procedures, across the four classes of insecticides used in public health. The mosquitoes were also subjected to molecular identification to the species level, and genotyped for West African knockdown resistance mutation (L1014F) and insensitive acetylcholinesterase-1 resistance mutation (G119S). Results The mosquitoes were susceptible (100%) to bendiocarb but resistant to pirimiphos-methyl (39.6%), deltamethrin (57%) and dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (DDT) (13%). Molecular analysis revealed that only An. gambiae (sensu stricto) was found in all the states except for Ebonyi, where only Anopheles coluzzii was present. High frequencies (0.6–0.9) of the L1014F mutation were found across the zone. The L1014F mutation was significantly higher in An. gambiae (s.s.) than in An. coluzzii (P

This work was focused on carbonizing four tropical fruits shells wastes such as: coconut shells (CS), palmyra shells (PS), doum palm shells (DPS), whole fruit of doum palm (WFDP) and teak wood (TW) used as control. The aim was to investigate the potential of those biochar to be used as an alternative energy source in replacement ofcharcoal. The raw biomasses samples were carbonized under the same conditions and some combustion characteristics of the obtained biochar such as lower calorific value, energy per unit volume associated to bulk density, ash content, moisture content and ash mineral content were investigated. The temperature in the furnace was estimated during carbonization process using a K-type thermocouple. The thermal profile of the studied raw biomasses reveals three phases of carbonization. The biochar yield drops significantly for all biomasses as the final maximum temperature increases. The average yields obtained ranged from 37.81 % for palmyra shells to 27.57 % for the doum palm shells. The highest yield achieved was 42.32 % obtained at 280 °C for palmyra shells, the lowest yield (24.42 %) was recorded at the highest maximum temperature of 590 ° C for doum palm shells. The results of energy parameters of the studied biochar showed that coconut shells charcoal presented the highest lower calorific value (28.059 MJ.kg-1), followed by doum palm shells (26.929 MJ.kg-1) when, with 25.864 MJ.kg-1, whole fruit of doum palm charcoal showed the lowest lower calorific value. Similarly, with the highest bulk density of 0.625 g/cm3 coconut shells charcoal presented the highest energy per unit volume (17536.88 J/cm3), whereas with the lowest bulk density of 0.415 g/cm3, whole fruit of doum palm charcoal presented the lowest energy per unit volume. The ash content analysis showed that whole fruit of doum palm had the highest ash content (18.75 %) and palmyra nut shells charcoal (8.42 %).Teak wood charcoal, took as control, has the highest lower calorific value (32.163 MJ.kg-1), less dense as coconut shell (0.43 g/cm3), his energy per unit of volume is 13830.09 j/cm3 but the lowest value of as content (2.90 %). Among these biomasses charcoals, only whole fruit of doum palm charcoal ash showed a high chloride and sulfide content respectively 9.73 % and 1.75 % in weight. From these results, the produced charcoals could be used as alternative fuels except for whole fruits of doum palm charcoal which chloride and sulfide content were found high. ©2020. CBIORE-IJRED. All rights reserved

Abstract Background Several Host defence peptides (HDPs) are low molecular weight (

Libraries of protein-encoding sequences can be generated by identification of open reading frames (ORFs) from a genome of choice that are then assembled into collections of plasmids termed ORFeome libraries. These represent powerful resources to facilitate functional genomic characterization of genes and their encoded products. Here, we report the generation of an ORFeome for Zymoseptoria tritici, which causes the most serious disease of wheat in temperate regions of the world. We screened the genome of strain IP0323 for high confidence gene models, identifying 4,075 candidates from 10,933 predicted genes. These were amplified from genomic DNA, were cloned into the Gateway entry vector pDONR207, and were sequenced, providing a total of 3,022 quality-controlled plasmids. The ORFeome includes genes predicted to encode effectors (n = 410) and secondary metabolite biosynthetic proteins (n = 171) in addition to genes residing at dispensable chromosomes (n = 122) or those that are preferentially expressed during plant infection (n = 527). The ORFeome plasmid library is compatible with our previously developed suite of Gateway destination vectors, which have various combinations of promoters, selection markers, and epitope tags. The Z. tritici ORFeome constitutes a powerful resource for functional genomics and offers unparalleled opportunities to understand the biology of Z. tritici.[Graphic: see text] Copyright © 2019 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY 4.0 International license.

Laboratory investigation on the effect of micro sized quarry dust on engineering behaviour of cement stabilized lateritic soil was carried out. The specific concentration was on the effective way of curtailing, managing and disposing solid wastes generated from quarry activities by incorporating them as admixture in cement amelioration protocol of weak lateritic soil bound for sustainable subgrade material. In airfield, embankment, railways, pavement foundation structures, special attention/consideration/interest is continually laid on how moisture percolation affect the bearing capacity or strength of the subgrade layer. The quarry dust of 0 to 10 % was admixed with cement of 0 to 8 %, both in step increment of 2% by dry weight of the soil forming a combination matrix of twenty-five test specimens in an amelioration protocol. The test results show that quarry dust admixture steadily improved the plasticity index of cement stabilized soil through the reduction in plasticity index. The maximum dry density in most part of the test, improved with increase in percentage stabilizers blend for the individual corresponding optimum moisture content of the treated soil. The mechanical properties (California bearing ratio and unconfined compressive strength) of cemented lateritic soil increased significantly with increase in the micro sized quarry dust stabilizer. The resistance to loss in strength showed that more than 80 % durability values was recorded. The SEM/EDS analysis of the optimally stabilized specimen in contrast to untreated soil established the development of calcite as C-S-H and C-(A)-S-H. The formation of C-S-H and C-(A)-S-H which was also confirmed through the FTIR and XRD test was responsible for strength development.

The challenges concerning the control of malaria remain due to the continuous emergence of drug resistant strains. Over the years, the use, misuse, and abuse of antimalarials have created a conducive environment for the development of resistant Plasmodium falciparum strains. We herein report on the synthesis, characterization and antimalarial activity of a library of seven novel 1,2,3-triazoles as part of the drug discovery campaign against drug-resistant Plasmodium falciparum. The interactions of the triazoles with plasmepsin II, plasmepsin IV, falcipain-2 and the heme detoxifying protein-all key proteins of Plasmodium falciparum degradosequesterome (Dsq) were also investigated by molecular docking. The compounds 3a-d, 4–6 were synthesized by CuAAC click reaction in good to excellent yields of 73–98% and characterized by melting point, UVvisible, infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance (1H and 13C) and MS techniques. Compounds 3a-d displayed high in vitro potency (IC50s: 0.62–22.11 ug/ml) against the chloroquine-resistant Dd2 lab strain of Plasmodium falciparum and low toxicity (SI > 1 except compound 4) to human erythrocytes. Computational studies indicated that the compounds 3a-3d had an absorption of 76–91%, and they were category III acute oral toxins (LD50 from 500 to 5000 mg/kg). The molecular docking study suggests that compounds 3a-d interacted with plasmepsin IV and the heme detoxifying protein with high affinity and a moderate affinity for falcipain-2.

Thread blight disease has recently been described as an emerging disease on cacao (Theobroma cacao) in Ghana. In Ghana, thread blight disease is caused by multiple species of the Marasmiaceae family: Marasmius tenuissimus, M. crinis-equi, M. palmivorus, and Marasmiellus scandens. Interestingly, two additional members of the Marasmiaceae; Moniliophthora roreri (frosty pod rot) and Moniliophthora perniciosa (witches’ broom disease), are major pathogens of cacao in the Western hemisphere. It is important to accurately characterize the genetic relationships among these economically important species in support of their disease management. We used data from Illumina NGS-based genome sequencing efforts to study the mitochondrial genomes (mitogenomes) of the four cacao thread blight associated pathogens from Ghana and compared them with published mitogenomes of Mon. roreri and Mon. perniciosa. There is a remarkable interspecies variation in mitogenome size within the six cacao-associated Marasmiaceae species, ranging from 43,121 to 109,103 bp. The differences in genome lengths are primarily due to the number and lengths of introns, differences in intergenic space, and differences in the size and numbers of unidentified ORFs (uORF). Among seven M. tenuissimus mitogenomes sequenced, there is variation in size and sequence pointing to divergent evolution patterns within the species. The intronic regions show a high degree of sequence variation compared to the conserved sequences of the 14 core genes. The intronic ORFs identified, regardless of species, encode GIY-YIG or LAGLIDADG domain-containing homing endonuclease genes. Phylogenetic relationships using the 14 core proteins largely mimic the phylogenetic relationships observed in gene order patterns, grouping M. tenuissimus with M. crinis-equi, and M. palmivorus with Mon. roreri and Mon. perniciosa, leaving Mar. scandens as an outlier. The results from this study provide evidence of independent expansion/contraction events and sequence diversification in each species and establish a foundation for further exploration of the evolutionary trajectory of the fungi in Marasmiaceae family.

The Nigerian Niger-Delta crude oil exploration often results in spills that affect indigenous medicinal plant biodiversity, likely changing the phytochemical profile of surviving species, their bioactivity or toxicity. In crude oil-rich Kokori and crude oil-free Abraka, classic examples of indigenous plants occupying the medicine-food interface include Vernonia amygdalina (VAL) and Ocimum gratissimum leaves (OGL). These plants are frequently utilised during pregnancy and in anaemia. To date, no scientific investigation has been reported on the potential changes to the phytochemical or bioactivity of the study plants. To discuss the similarities and dissimilarities in antisickling bioactivity and phytochemicals in VAL and OGL collected from Kokori (VAL-KK and OGL-KK) and Abraka (VAL-AB and OGL-AB), in silico, in vitro and comparative UPLC-QTOF-MS analysis was performed. Nine unique compounds were identified in OGL-KK, which have never been reported in the literature, while differences in antisickling potentials were observed in VAL-KK, OGL-KK and, VAL-AB, OGL-AB. Our findings show that VAL-AB and OGL-AB are richer and more diverse in phytochemicals and displayed a slightly higher antisickling activity than VAL-KK and OGL-KK. Ligand-based pharmacophore modelling was performed to understand the potential compounds better; this study may provide a basis for explaining the effect of crude oil spills on secondary metabolites and a reference for further research.

Phytomedicines reportedly rich in cystine knot peptides (Knottins) are found in several global diets, food/herbal supplements and functional foods. However, their knottin peptide content has largely been unexplored, notably for their emerging dual potentials at both the food and medicine space. The nutritional roles, biological targets and mechanism(s) of activity of these knotted peptides are largely unknown. Meanwhile, knottins have recently been unveiled as emerging peptide therapeutics and nutraceuticals of primary choice due to their broad spectrum of bioactivity, hyper stability, selective toxicity, impressive selectivity for biomolecular targets, and their bioengineering applications. In addition to their potential dietary benefits, some knottins have displayed desirable limited toxicity to human erythrocytes. In an effort to appraise what has been accomplished, unveil knowledge gaps and explore the future prospects of knottins, an elaborate review of the nutritional and pharmaceutical application of phytomedicines rich in knottins was carried out. Herein, we provide comprehensive data on common dietary and therapeutic knottins, the majority of which are poorly investigated in many food-grade phytomedicines used in different cultures and localities. Findings from this review should stimulate scientific interest to unveil novel dietary knottins and knottin-rich nutraceutical peptide drug candidates/leads with potential for future clinical application.

The binding energy of the naphthalene(+•)(benzene) heterodimer cation has been determined to be 7.9 ± 1 kcal/mol for C10H8(+•)(C6H6) and 8.1 ± 1 kcal/mol for C10H8(+•)(C6D6) by equilibrium thermochemical measurements using the mass-selected drift cell technique. A second benzene molecule binds to the C10H8(+•)(C6D6) dimer with essentially the same energy (8.4 ± 1 kcal/mol), suggesting that the two benzene molecules are stacked on opposite sides of the naphthalene cation in the (C6D6)C10H8(+•)(C6D6) heterotrimer. The lowest-energy isomers of the C10H8(+•)(C6D6) and (C6D6)C10H8(+•)(C6D6) dimer and trimer calculated using the M11/cc-pVTZ method have parallel stacked structures with enthalpies of binding (-ΔH°) of 8.4 and 9.0 kcal/mol, respectively, in excellent agreement with the experimental values. The stacked face-to-face class of isomers is calculated to have substantial charge-transfer stabilization of about 45% of the total interaction energy despite the large difference between the ionization energies of benzene and naphthalene. Similarly, significant delocalization of the positive charge is found among all three fragments of the (C6D6)C10H8(+•)(C6D6) heterotrimer, thus leaving only 46% of the total charge on the central naphthalene moiety. This unexpectedly high charge-transfer component results in activating two benzene molecules in the naphthalene(+•)(benzene)2 heterotrimer cation to associate with a third benzene molecule at 219 K to form a benzene trimer cation and a neutral naphthalene molecule. The global minimum of the C10H8(+•)(C6H6)2 heterotrimer is found to be the one where the naphthalene cation is sandwiched between two benzene molecules. It is remarkable, and rather unusual, that the binding energy of the second benzene molecule is essentially the same as that of the first. This is attributed to the enhanced charge-transfer interaction in the stacked trimer radical cation.

Background and study aim COVID-19 patients are at increased risk for venous thromboembolism (VTE) requiring the use of anticoagulation. Gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is increasingly being reported, complicating the decision to initiate or resume anticoagulation as providers balance the risk of thrombotic disease with the risk of bleeding. Our study aimed to assess rebleeding rates in COVID-19 patients with GIB and determine whether endoscopy reduces these rebleeding events. We also report 30-day VTE and mortality rates. Methods This was a retrospective study evaluating 56 COVID-19 patients with GIB for the following outcomes: 30-day rebleeding rate, 30-day VTE rate, effects of endoscopic intervention on the rate of rebleeding, and 30-day mortality. Results The overall rates of VTE and rebleeding events were 27 % and 41 %, respectively. Rebleeding rates in patients managed conservatively was 42 % compared with 40 % in the endoscopy group. Overall, 87 % of those who underwent invasive intervention resumed anticoagulation vs. 55 % of those managed medically (P = 0.02). The all-cause 30-day mortality and GIB-related deaths were 32 % and 9 %, respectively. Mortality rates between the endoscopic and conservative management groups were not statistically different (25 % vs. 39 %; P = 0.30). Conclusions Although rebleeding rates were similar between the endoscopic and conservative management groups, patients who underwent intervention were more likely to restart anticoagulation. While endoscopy appeared to limit the duration that anticoagulation was withheld, larger studies are needed to further characterize its direct effect on mortality outcomes in these complex patients.

BackgroundThe resources of West African mental health care systems are severely constrained, which contributes to significant unmet mental health needs. Consequently, people with psychiatric conditions often receive care from traditional and faith healers. Healers may use practices that constitute human rights violations, such as flogging, caging, forced fasting, and chaining. ObjectiveThe aim of this study is to partner with healers in Ghana to develop a smartphone toolkit designed to support the dissemination of evidence-based psychosocial interventions and the strengthening of human rights awareness in the healer community. MethodsWe conducted on-site observations and qualitative interviews with healers, a group co-design session, content development and prototype system build-out, and usability testing. ResultsA total of 18 healers completed individual interviews. Participants reported on their understanding of the causes and treatments of mental illnesses. They identified situations in which they elect to use mechanical restraints and other coercive practices. Participants described an openness to using a smartphone-based app to help introduce them to alternative practices. A total of 12 healers participated in the co-design session. Of the 12 participants, 8 (67%) reported having a smartphone. Participants reported that they preferred spiritual guidance but that it was acceptable that M-Healer would provide mostly nonspiritual content. They provided suggestions for who should be depicted as the toolkit protagonist and ranked their preferred content delivery modality in the following order: live-action video, animated video, comic strip, and still images with text. Participants viewed mood board prototypes and rated their preferred visual design in the following order: religious theme, nature motif, community or medical, and Ghanaian culture. The content was organized into modules, including an introduction to the system, brief mental health interventions, verbal de-escalation strategies, guided relaxation techniques, and human rights training. Each module contained several scripted digital animation videos, with audio narration in English or Twi. The module menu was represented by touchscreen icons and a single word or phrase to maximize accessibility to users with limited literacy. In total, 12 participants completed the M-Healer usability testing. Participants commented that they liked the look and functionality of the app and understood the content. The participants reported that the information and displays were clear. They successfully navigated the app but identified several areas where usability could be enhanced. Posttesting usability measures indicated that participants found M-Healer to be feasible, acceptable, and usable. ConclusionsThis study is the first to develop a digital mental health toolkit for healers in West Africa. Engaging healers in user-centered development produced an accessible and acceptable resource. Future field testing will determine whether M-Healer can improve healer practices and reduce human rights abuses.

FeSbO4 powder was prepared using the solid-state reaction method in this work. Afterward, the dense and porous ceramics were obtained by sintering the pressed powder calcined at temperatures of 900 and 1000 °C for 4 h. Rietveld profile analysis of the X-ray powder diffraction data showed that FeSbO4 adopts the trirutile-type structure (space group P42/mnm, with a ≅ 4.63 Å and c ≅ 9.23 Å). SEM images showed that the powder calcined at 900 °C after being sintered at 1200 °C resulted in ceramics of higher crystallinity, larger grains, and consequently, low porosity. The dielectric properties were measured in the frequency range of 10−1 Hz–1 MHz as a function of temperature (25–250 °C). The real (σ′) and imaginary (σ″) parts of the complex conductivity increase with rising annealing temperature for both samples. The real conductivity in the AC region for 𝑓 = 100 kHz was 1.59×10−6 S·cm−1 and 7.04×10−7 S·cm−1 for the ceramic samples obtained from the powder calcined at 900 (C-900) and 1000 °C (C-1000), respectively. Furthermore, the dielectric constants (k′) measured at room temperature and f=100 kHz were 13.77 (C-900) and 6.27 (C-1000), while the activation energies of the grain region were Ea = 0.53 eV and Ea = 0.49 eV, respectively. Similar activation energy (Ea = 0.52 eV and 0.49 eV) was also obtained by the brick-layer model and confirmed by the adjustment of activation energy by DC measurements which indicated an absence of the porosity influence on the parameter. Additionally, loss factor values were obtained to be equal to 3.8 (C-900) and 5.99 (C-1000) for measurements performed at 100 Hz, suggesting a contribution of the conductivity originated from the combination or accommodation of the pores in the grain boundary region. Our results prove that the microstructural factors that play a critical role in the electrical and dielectric properties are the average grain size and the porosity interspersed with the grain boundary region.

ZnO nanocrystals with three different morphologies have been synthesized via a simple sol-gel-based method using Brosimum parinarioides (bitter Amapá) and Parahancornia amapa (sweet Amapá) latex as chelating agents. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron diffraction patterns (SAED) patterns showed the ZnO nanocrystals were a pure hexagonal wurtzite phase of ZnO. XRD-based spherical harmonics predictions and HRTEM images depicted that the nanocrystallites constitute pitanga-like (~15.8 nm), teetotum-like (~16.8 nm), and cambuci-like (~22.2 nm) shapes for the samples synthesized using bitter Amapá, sweet Amapá, and bitter/sweet Amapá chelating agent, respectively. The band gap luminescence was observed at ~2.67–2.79 eV along with several structural defect-related, blue emissions at 468–474 nm (VO, VZn, Zni), green emissions positioned at 513.89–515.89 (h-VO+), and orange emission at 600.78 nm (VO+–VO++). The best MB dye removal efficiency (85%) was mainly ascribed to the unique shape and oxygen vacancy defects found in the teetotum-like ZnO nanocrystals. Thus, the bitter Amapá and sweet Amapá latex are effective chelating agents for synthesizing distinctive-shaped ZnO nanocrystals with highly defective and remarkable photocatalytic activity.

Acinetobacter baumannii (A. baumannii) are phenotypically indistinguishable from the Acinetobacter calcoaceticus–A. baumannii (ACB) complex members using routine laboratory methods. Early diagnosis plays an important role in controlling A. baumannii infections and this could be assisted by the development of a rapid, yet sensitive diagnostic test. In this study, we developed an enzyme-based electrochemical genosensor for asymmetric PCR (aPCR) amplicon detection of the blaOXA-51-like gene in A. baumannii. A. baumanniiblaOXA-51-like gene PCR primers were designed, having the reverse primer modified at the 5′ end with FAM. A blaOXA-51-like gene sequence-specific biotin labelled capture probe was designed and immobilized using a synthetic oligomer (FAM-labelled) deposited on the working electrode of a streptavidin-modified, screen-printed carbon electrode (SPCE). The zot gene was used as an internal control with biotin and FAM labelled as forward and reverse primers, respectively. The blaOXA-51-like gene was amplified using asymmetric PCR (aPCR) to generate single-stranded amplicons that were detected using the designed SPCE. The amperometric current response was detected with a peroxidase-conjugated, anti-fluorescein antibody. The assay was tested using reference and clinical A. baumannii strains and other nosocomial bacteria. The analytical sensitivity of the assay at the genomic level and bacterial cell level was 0.5 pg/mL (1.443 µA) and 103 CFU/mL, respectively. The assay was 100% specific and sensitive for A. baumannii. Based on accelerated stability performance, the developed genosensor was stable for 1.6 years when stored at 4 °C and up to 28 days at >25 °C. The developed electrochemical genosensor is specific and sensitive and could be useful for rapid, accurate diagnosis of A. baumannii infections even in temperate regions.

Cordia dichotoma Forst. (F. Boraginaceae) has been traditionally used for the management of a variety of human ailments. In our earlier work, the antidiabetic activity of methanolic bark extract of C. dichotoma (MECD) has been reported. In this paper, two flavonoid molecules were isolated (by column chromatography) and identified (by IR, NMR and mass spectroscopy/spectrometry) from the MECD with an aim to investigate their antidiabetic effectiveness. Molecular docking and ADMET studies were carried out using AutoDock Vina software and Swiss ADME online tool, respectively. The isolated flavonoids were identified as 3,5,7,3′,4′-tetrahydroxy-4-methoxyflavone-3-O-l-rhamnopyranoside and 5,7,3′-trihydroxy-4-methoxyflavone-7-O-l-rhamnopyranoside (quercitrin). Docking and ADMET studies revealed the promising binding affinity of flavonoid molecules for human lysosomal α-glucosidase and human pancreatic α-amylase with acceptable ADMET properties. Based on computational studies, our study reports the antidiabetic potential of the isolated flavonoids with predictive pharmacokinetics profile.

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic is caused by an infectious novel strain of coronavirus known as severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) which was earlier referred to as 2019-nCoV. The respiratory disease is the most consequential global public health crisis of the 21st century whose level of negative impact increasingly experienced globally has not been recorded since World War II. Up till now, there has been no specific globally authorized antiviral drug, vaccines, supplement or herbal remedy available for the treatment of this lethal disease except preventive measures, supportive care and non-specific treatment options adopted in different countries via divergent approaches to halt the pandemic. However, many of these interventions have been documented to show some level of success particularly the Traditional Chinese Medicine while there is paucity of well reported studies on the impact of the widely embraced Traditional African Medicines (TAM) adopted so far for the prevention, management and treatment of COVID-19. We carried out a detailed review of publicly available data, information and claims on the potentials of indigenous plants used in Sub-Saharan Africa as antiviral remedies with potentials for the prevention and management of COVID-19. In this review, we have provided a holistic report on evidence-based antiviral and promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 properties of African medicinal plants based on in silico evidence, in vitro assays and in vivo experiments alongside the available data on their mechanistic pharmacology. In addition, we have unveiled knowledge gaps, provided an update on the effort of African Scientific community toward demystifying the dreadful SARS-CoV-2 micro-enemy of man and have documented popular anti-COVID-19 herbal claims emanating from the continent for the management of COVID-19 while the risk potentials of herb-drug interaction of antiviral phytomedicines when used in combination with orthodox drugs have also been highlighted. This review exercise may lend enough credence to the potential value of African medicinal plants as possible leads in anti-COVID-19 drug discovery through research and development.

Background and Purpose: In the United States, an exponential increase in total hip arthroplasty (THA) and total knee arthroplasty (TKA) demand has occurred over the last 2 decades. Evidence suggesting patients receiving inpatient rehabilitation following a TKA or THA experience similar outcomes as those with rehabilitation in other settings led to dramatic shifts in postsurgical care settings owing to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) payment reforms. A contemporary synthesis of evidence about the association between patient and facility factors and outcomes from older adults undergoing THA or TKA in the United States is needed. Methods: To identify eligible studies, we searched PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL. We followed PRISMA guidelines to identify articles evaluating either patient or facility factors associated with outcomes after THA or TKA for older adults who may have been cared for in inpatient settings (ie, inpatient rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility [SNF]). Eligible articles were conducted in the United States and were published between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2021. Results: We included 8 articles focused on patient factors and 9 focused on facility factors. Most included older adults and the majority were White (in those reporting race/ethnicity). Most studies evaluated outcomes at discharge and showed that patients admitted to inpatient rehabilitation facilities had either similar or better functional outcomes (mobility, selfcare, and functional independence measure (FIM) score) and lower length of stay compared with those in SNFs. Few studies focused on home health care. Conclusions: The systematic review focused on older adults showed that findings in these patients are consistent with previous research. Older adults undergoing THA/TKA had acceptable outcomes regardless of postsurgical, inpatient setting of care. Research conducted after CMS payment reforms, in home health care settings, and in more diverse samples is needed. Given the known racial/ethnic disparities in THA/TKA and the shifts to postsurgical home health care with little regulatory oversight of care quality, contemporary research on outcomes of postsurgical THA/TKA outcomes is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the plight of working mothers of children under the age of 18 at the University of Nigeria within the context of work-family conflict, using data from a cross-sectional sample of 485 academic and non-academic staff selected through a multi-staged sampling technique. Data were obtained using questionnaires and seven IDI (in-depth interview) respondents. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics such as percentages and frequency tables, while the Chi-square was used to examine the study variables. The results indicated that there is a statistically significant relationship between couples living together and the stress experience of working mothers with under-age children. The findings further show that there is a statistically significant relationship between the staff category of working mothers and the experience of stress. This underscored the recommendation that the government needs to review the working conditions of women and support workplace policies that allow flexibility and support for working mothers. Social workers are also recommended to be involved in some government and organization policies that will help to reduce work overload for working mothers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• The concept of "contextual isolation" in nursing homes is novel. • It is having a socially salient characteristic in a context with few like residents. • Among residents with dementia, 13% were isolated on multiple characteristics. • "Contextual isolation" was associated with higher pain prevalence. We evaluated the degree to which contextual isolation in nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias is associated with documented pain using the Minimum Data Set 3.0, a comprehensive resident assessment required of all nursing home residents in the United States. Contextual isolation was defined as having a socially salient characteristic (demographics, habits and interests, and clinical and care dimensions) shared by fewer than 20% of other residents in the same nursing home. Thirteen percent were contextually isolated on multiple characteristics. Among residents self-reporting pain, residents contextually isolated with respect to multiple characteristics were 8% more likely (95% confidence interval: 7% to 9%) to have pain relative to residents who were not contextually isolated on any characteristics. Long-stay nursing home residents with ADRD who live in settings where they were contextually isolated were more likely to have pain relative to those without contextually isolation on any characteristic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Listeria sp. is a ubiquitous and frequently isolated foodborne pathogen. The prevalence of Listeria sp in raw beef and chevon sold in Lafia Nigeria, as well as their antibiotic susceptibility profile was evaluated. Methods: A total 104 samples comprising of 52 raw beef and 52 chevon were obtained from street vendors (hawkers), Shinge abattoir, Lafia old market and Lafia Modern Market. Isolation of Listeria sp. was performed on Listeria Selective Agar, following enrichment in supplemented Listeria Selective Broth. Identification of Listeria sp. was carried out by cultural and biochemical methods. Antimicrobial susceptibility of isolated L. monocytogenes was performed by standard disk diffusion method. Chi-square test was used to determine association between contamination levels at p=0.05. Results: Seven types of Listeria sp. were isolated. L. monocytogenes and L. ivanovii were the most frequently isolated contaminants in all meat types and from all sample sources. L. monocytogenes was isolated with a frequency of 64.4% (67/104) in the meat samples. Beef samples had the highest listerial contamination with a frequency of 58.2% (78/134) compared to chevon which had a listerial frequency of 41.8% (56/134). Resistance of L. monocytogenes to streptomycin and sparfloxacin was 58.2% and 55.2% respectively. Resistance to ampicillin (34.3%) and gentamicin (20.9%) was also observed. Resistances to multiple antimicrobials were detected in 11 L. monocytogenes isolates. Conclusion: The study demonstrated that the raw meat sold in Lafia was contaminated with several Listeria sp. L. monocytogenes showed high rate of resistance to several antimicrobial agents used for the treatment of listerial infection. Appropriate regulation and monitoring of livestock rearing and meat retailing practices are advocated to safeguard the health of consumers. IMC J Med Sci 2019; 13(2): 001. EPub date: 18 July 2019 Address for Correspondence: Godwin Attah Obande, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Federal University Lafia, Nasarawa state, Nigeria. E-mail: obandegodwins@gmail.com; +2348039646924

Abstract Background Dermestes maculatus is a destructive pest of smoked-dried fish. Due to its implications, this research was aimed at investigating the insecticidal activities of edible plant extracts on smoked Clarias gariepinus as protectants against Dermestes maculatus. Result The extract of Piper guineense at 4%, 8%, and 12% concentrations recorded between 8–92% and 33–100% mortalities, respectively, for the first 4 weeks and 0% mortality was observed in weeks 5–8. The extracts of Capsicum frutescens and Dennettia tripetala at 4% concentration recorded between 8 and 92% mortalities in the first 4 weeks and 5 weeks, respectively, and no mortality was recorded in the remaining weeks. At 12% concentration for Dennettia tripetala extract, 8–100% mortality was recorded throughout the experimental period. At 12% concentration for Capsicum frutescens, 8–92% mortality was recorded in weeks 1–7 and 0% in week 8. Positive control recorded 33–67% mortality in weeks 1–4 and 0% mortality in weeks 5–8. Negative control recorded no mortality in the first 3 weeks, but few larvae were found dead in the remaining weeks. The mean value of 106, 36, and 96 progenies emerged at 4%, 8%, and 12% concentrations, respectively, in the smoked fish treated with Piper guineense. Mean value of 0.50 and 0.50 progenies were recorded at 4% and 8% concentrations, respectively, while no emergence was observed at 12% concentration of Dennettia tripetala extract. Extract of Capsicum frutescens recorded mean value of 1.00, 3.00, and 3.50 progenies at 4%, 8%, and 12% concentrations, respectively. Weight loss of 66.47%, 31.46%, and 56.25% at 4%, 8%, and 12% concentrations was observed for Piper guineense extract respectively. Extracts of Dennettia tripetala and Capsicum frutescens recorded weight loss of 3.46%, 2.11%, and 0.02% and 27.77%, 12.30%, and 22.90%, respectively, at 4%, 8%, and 12% concentrations. Positive and negative controls recorded 4.36% and 81.18% weight loss, respectively. Conclusion They can therefore serve as affordable substitutes for synthetic chemicals which had been proven to be detrimental to the health of its consumers.

The development of precise and efficient diagnostic tools enables early treatment and proper isolation of infected individuals, hence limiting the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The standard diagnostic tests used by healthcare workers to diagnose severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection have some limitations, including longer detection time, the need for qualified individuals, and the use of sophisticated bench-top equipment, which limit their use for rapid SARS-CoV-2 assessment. Advances in sensor technology have renewed the interest in electrochemical biosensors miniaturization, which provide improved diagnostic qualities such as rapid response, simplicity of operation, portability, and readiness for on-site screening of infection. This review gives a condensed overview of the current electrochemical sensing platform strategies for SARS-CoV-2 detection in clinical samples. The fundamentals of fabricating electrochemical biosensors, such as the chosen electrode materials, electrochemical transducing techniques, and sensitive biorecognition molecules, are thoroughly discussed in this paper. Furthermore, we summarised electrochemical biosensors detection strategies and their analytical performance on diverse clinical samples, including saliva, blood, and nasopharyngeal swab. Finally, we address the employment of miniaturized electrochemical biosensors integrated with microfluidic technology in viral electrochemical biosensors, emphasizing its potential for on-site diagnostics applications.

Abstract Myocardial infarction (MI) is the most prevalent cause of cardiovascular death. A possible way of preventing MI maybe by dietary supplements. The present study was thus designed to ascertain the cardio-protective effect of a formulated curcumin and nisin based poly lactic acid nanoparticle (CurNisNp) on isoproterenol (ISO) induced MI in guinea pigs. Animals were pretreated for 7 days as follows; Groups A and B animals were given 0.5 mL/kg of normal saline, group C metoprolol (2 mg/kg), groups D and E CurNisNp 10 and 21 mg/kg respectively (n = 5). MI was induced on the 7th day in groups B-E animals. On the 9th day electrocardiogram (ECG) was recorded, blood samples and tissue biopsies were collected for analyses. Toxicity studies on CurNisNp were carried out. MI induction caused atrial fibrillation which was prevented by pretreatment of metoprolol or CurNisNp. MI induction was also associated with increased expressions of cardiac troponin I (CTnI) and kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1) which were significantly reduced in guinea pig’s pretreated with metoprolol or CurNisNp (P

Bioactive peptides are known for health-promoting properties due to several pharmacological effects they modulate in physiological systems. Herein, the presence of peptides particularly cyclic peptides, was investigated in two Rubiaceae members; Nauclea diderichii (De Wild. and T. Durand) Merrill and Ixora brachypoda DC by thin layer chromatography (TLC) chemical detection, and their multifunctional bioactivity evaluated. Crude and pre-purified peptides were obtained from both plants using aqueous and solid-phase extractions, respectively. The peptide fraction of N. diderrichii showed good DPPH scavenging activity (IC50 = 3.43 µg/mL) compared to the standard Gallic acid (IC50 = 1.44 µg/mL). Peptide fractions of both plants displayed inhibitory effects (MIC = 6.25 μg/mL) against bacteria and fungi strains except Escherichia coli, relative to standard drugs (MIC = 0.31 µg/mL). Both displayed significant toxicity to brine shrimp nauplii (LC50 ≤ 220.8 μg m L−1) as well as MCF-7 and RD cancer cells (IC50 ≤ 34.0 μg m L−1). The enterovirus species B and C tested were remarkably susceptible to the peptide fractions (IC50 ≤ 3.20 μg/mL).

Assessment and evaluation in the educational process have a profound and well-established link to student performance. This paper determines the impact of the ClassMarker app on the performance of undergraduates in online learning of ICT in the University of Ilorin. The study adopted a true experimental design of post-test only design. The population of the study consisted of all 300 level undergraduates of Educational Technology Department, University of Ilorin. The sample of the study was randomly selected 30 students, 300 level undergraduates of the Educational Technology Department, University of Ilorin. 15 students in the controlled group and 15 in the experimental group. Data collected were analysed using mean and standard deviation to answer the research question that guided the study. The three hypotheses raised were tested using independent samples t-test at 0.05level of significance. Findings revealed that undergraduates' in the experimental group performed better than their counterpart in the controlled group. Also, gender has so significant difference in the performance of undergraduates' in online learning of ICT. It was recommended among others that lecturers in the online learning environment should be encouraged to use the ClassMarker as a tool for assessment because it has a significant impact on the performance of the students. Abstrait L'appréciation et l'évaluation dans le processus éducatif ont un lien profond et bien établi avec la performance des étudiants. Cet article détermine l'impact de l'application ClassMarker sur la performance des étudiants de premier cycle dans l'apprentissage en ligne des ITC à University of Ilorin. L'étude a adopté une véritable conception expérimentale de conception post-test uniquement. La population de l'étude était composée des 300 étudiants de premier cycle du département de Technologie Educative de University of Ilorin. L'échantillon de l'étude a été sélectionné au hasard 30 étudiants de 3e année au niveau de la licence du Département de Technologie Educative, University of Ilorin. 15 étudiants au groupe de contrôle et 15 au groupe expérimental. Les données recueillies ont été analysées en utilisant la moyenne et l'écart-type pour répondre à la question de recherche qui a guidé l'étude. Les trois hypothèses soulevées ont été testées à l'aide d'un test t d'échantillons indépendants à un niveau de signification de 0,05. Les résultats ont révélé que les étudiants de premier cycle du groupe expérimental avaient de meilleurs résultats que leurs homologues du groupe de contrôle. En outre, le genre a une différence si significative dans la performance des étudiants de premier cycle dans l'apprentissage en ligne des ICT. Il a été recommandé, entre autres, que les enseignants de l'environnement d'apprentissage en ligne soient encouragés à utiliser le ClassMarker comme outil d'évaluation, car il a un impact significatif sur les performances des étudiants.

ObjectivesThis study evaluates the effect of Community Anti-retroviral Groups on Immunologic, Virologic and clinical outcomes of stable Antiretroviral Therapy patients in Nigeria.MethodA cohort of 251 eligible adults (≥18 years) on first-line ART for at least 6 months with CD4 counts >200 cells/mm3 and viral load ResultOut of the 251 stable antiretroviral therapy adults enrolled, 186 (75.3%) were female, 52 (22.7%) had attained post-secondary education and the mean age of participants was 38 years (SD: 9.5). Also, 66 (27.9%) were employed while 125 (52.7%) were self-employed and 46(19.41%) unemployed. 246 (98.0%) of the participants were retained in care. While there was no statistically significant change in the CD4 counts (456cells/mm3 vs 481cells/mm3 P-0.489) and Log10 viral load (3.54c/ml vs 3.69c/ml P-0.359) after one year of devolvement into the community, we observed a significant increase in body weight (60.8 vs 65, P-0.01).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that community antiretroviral therapy has a potential of maintaining optimum treatment outcomes while improving adherence and retention, and reducing the burden of HIV treatment on the health facility. This study provides baseline information for further research and vital information for HIV program implementers planning to decentralize the management of stable antiretroviral therapy clients.

This study examined the effect of AISI H13 steel-tapered tool on the dissimilar friction stir welding of 7075-T651 and 1200-H19 aluminium alloys. Three mechanical tests which include hardness, tensile strength and impact energy were conducted to study the effect of tilt angle, rotational and welding speeds on the weld integrities, 50 and 175 HV were respectively obtained as hardness values for AA1200- H19 and AA 7075- T651, the hardness values were measured for three selected welding speeds of 30, 60 and 90 mm/min representing low, medium and high at a constant rotational speed of 1500 rpm, a tool tilt angle of 2°.The hardness increases with the welding speed from 81.99 to 98.5 HV as the speed increased from 30 to 60 mm/min and dropped to 77 HV at 90 mm/min.The impact energy increased from 12.9 to 21.4 J with an increase in the welding speed from 30 to 60 mm/min and dropped to 5.4 J at 90 mm/min.The ultimate tensile strength (UTS) increased from 126.04 to 151.54 MPa with an increase in the welding speed from 30–60 mm/min and decreased from 151.54 to 128.37 MPa, the hardness at 1500 rpm and 60 mm/min increased from 70.22 to 98.58 HV with an increase in the tilt angle from 1- $${2^^\circ }$$, a further increase from 2–3 o reduced the hardness from 98.58 to 66 HV, UTS increased from 123.32 to 151.54 MPa as tilt angle increased from 1–2 ° and decreased to 122.2 MPa, the medium tilt angle of $${2^^\circ }$$,rotational and traverse speeds of 1500 rpm and 60 mm/min respectively gave the highest impact energy of 21.4 J.

The increase of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimalarial resistance are complex and severe health issues today, as many microbial strains have become resistant to market drugs. The choice for the synthesis of new dipeptide-carboxamide derivatives is as a result of their wide biological properties such as antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. The condensation reaction of substituted benzenesulphonamoyl pentanamides with the carboxamide derivatives using peptide coupling reagents gave targeted products (8a-j). The in silico antimalarial and antibacterial studies showed good interactions of the compounds with target protein residues and a higher dock score in comparison with standard drugs. In the in vivo study, compound 8j was the most potent antimalarial agent with 61.90% inhibition comparable with 67% inhibition for Artemisinin. In the in vitro antimicrobial activity, compounds 8a and 8b (MIC 1.2 × 10−3 M and 1.1 × 10−3 M) were most potent against S. aureus; compound 8a, 8b, and 8j with MIC 6.0 × 10−3 M, 5.7 × 10−4 M, and 6.5 × 10−4 M, respectively, were the most active against B. subtilis; compound 8b (MIC 9.5 × 10−4 M) was most active against E.coli while 8a, 8b and 8d were the most active against S. typhi. Compounds 8c and 8h (MIC 1.3 × 10−3 M) each were the most active against C. albicans, while compound 8b (MIC 1.3 × 10−4 M) was most active against A. niger.

Babesia and Theileria are protozoan parasites belonging to the order piroplasmida, transmitted by hard ticks, and can cause diseases known as piroplasmosis. Human infections are usually asymptomatic, except in immuno-compromised persons who present malaria-like symptoms. Moreover, microscopically, the morphologies of Babesia and Theileria can resemble that of the malaria parasite, Plasmodium. In malaria-endemic areas with limited resources, these similarities can increase the possibility of misdiagnosing a patient as having malaria instead of piroplasmosis, which may further lead to inappropriate choice of disease management. This preliminary investigation aimed at detecting Babesia/Theileria in cattle, dogs and humans in some parts of Accra. Whole blood samples were taken from febrile cattle (n = 30) and dogs (n = 33), as well as humans diagnosed with malaria (n = 150). Blood samples of all study subjects were microscopically screened for possible presence of haemoparasites. Samples whose smears had features suggestive of possible piroplasmic infection were all given the label “suspected Babesia/Theileria-infected” samples. Nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed on extracted deoxyribonucelic acid (DNA) from all the “suspected” samples of cattle, dogs and humans, with primer sets that can detect 18S rRNA genes of Babesia/Theileria spp. In addition to this, amplification was performed on the “suspected” dog samples using the BcW-A/BcW-B primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of B. canis, while the BoF/BoR primer set which targets the rap-1 region of B. bovis and another primer set which detects the 18S rRNA genes of most bovine Babesia spp. (including B. divergens) were used on the suspected cattle samples. For the human samples, however, additional amplification was done on the extracted DNA using primers for the three other Babesia targeted (B. divergens, B. bovis and B. canis). Microscopy showed possible Babesia/Theileria infection suspected in all three groups of subjects in the following proportions: cattle (10/30; 33%), dogs (3/33; 9%) and humans (6/150; 4%). DNA from one-third of the “suspected” dog samples yielded amplification with Babesia canis primers. Moreover, a broad-detecting set of primers (that can amplify some Babesia and Theileria species) amplified DNA from nine (9/30; 30%) of the “suspected” cattle samples, but none from those of the humans. Although for this study conducted in the city, the Babesia/Theileria primers used did not amplify DNA from the six “suspected” human samples; the possibility of Babesia/Theileria infection in humans in other parts of the country cannot be overruled. There is therefore a need for further studies on possible emergence of human babesiosis/theileriosis in other parts of Ghana and sequencing for specific identification of any circulating strain.